The Spirit Given Sacramentally In today’s reading from the Acts of the Apostles we heard that, “when the time for Pentecost was fulfilled, suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire...Read More

Introduction On this beautiful day when we open our hearts anew to the Holy Spirit we also celebrate the Beatification of Archbishop Oscar Romero. This morning, as we speak, he is being beatified in San Salvador where he served as Archbishop until he was killed in his Cathedral in 1980. How grateful we are to...Read More

Introduction Msgr. Phillips, Msgr. Jarboe, Father Kiesel, Fr. Timoney, Deacons George & Philip, dear friends in Christ: It is a joy for me to be with all of you here today for the annual Archdiocesan Scout Mass and Presentation of Awards. I want to thank Fr. Arnold, who cannot be with us today, for his...Read More

Introduction On this very special day, the Lord Jesus calls you and me his friends. What joy that should bring to all of us – to be the friends of Jesus. What a precious gift friendship is. We may have many acquaintances but only a few really good friends. Jesus is truly our friend: he...Read More

Introduction At the end of his earthly life, after he had died on the Cross and rose from the dead, Jesus ascended into heaven and was seated in glory at the right hand of the Father. Now, as much as the Board of Trustees wanted to honor Dr. Thomas Powell at the end of his...Read More

The recent events in Baltimore have prompted myriad opinions and possible solutions to the underlying problems that surfaced after the death of Freddie Gray Jr. It’s worth noting before going any further that it shouldn’t have taken his untimely death for these serious, systemic and degrading conditions – lack of education options, insufficient housing, racial...Read More

Introduction This Cathedral Basilica has stood the test of time. Beginning in 1806 its roots were planted deeply here in Mt. Vernon. Gradually its simple yet majestic design began to take shape until it was finally completed in 1821. Since then it has continuously served as a thriving Cathedral parish, as a symbol of religious...Read More

Introduction Last Tuesday morning, I came by to say hello to Father Bomberger and to see how the parish and neighborhood were doing after a very difficult night. When I got to the Rectory, Father Ray wasn’t there. We were told we could find him across the street and there he was, a lone figure,...Read More