I. Introduction A. I am delighted to return to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish to join in celebrating your 40th anniversary. I also join you in expressing our common debt of thanks to your pastor, Fr. Sparklin, for his devoted service to this parish … thank you, Fr. Paul! Let’s also thank Sister Katharine for...Read More

I. Christmas Really Is Over Yesterday we celebrated the Baptism of the Lord and with that, the Church ended the Season of Christmas. So today in churches all around the world, crèches are being taken down and stored away until next year, Christmas trees, now a fire hazard, are being hauled away, and only a...Read More

I. Introduction A. Let me first thank you for being here at All Saints Convent, for setting aside some time for prayer and reflection, focused on the possibility that God may be calling you to become a priest. I came to pray with you, to offer my support, and, of course, to have the opportunity...Read More

Christmas Homily 2015 I. Introduction Let me begin with words of welcome. Christmas is one of those occasions when churches are filled to overflowing. Some of you are here at Mass almost every Sunday and some of you are here, well, less regularly. Whatever your situation, I’m glad you are here to celebrate the Lord’s...Read More

I. Introduction Every year, during the season of Advent, the Church rejoices as the feast of Christmas, the birthday of the Lord, draws near. Listening to the voice of the Lord, the Church invites us to share in a joy that is even greater than the problems and anxieties that beset us and the dangers...Read More

I. Introduction A. Dear Sisters, During this Holy Mass, all of us your friends and co-workers, join you in praying that the Holy Spirit will overshadow you as today you begin your General Chapter. It is more than a time of electing leadership and making decisions. More than that, your Chapter is a moment of...Read More

I. Introduction Father Lacey, Father Bowen, Father McGovern, priests, deacons, Sr. Maria Luz, women and men religious, members of Karen’s family, her friends and co-workers, all dear friends in Christ: Today the Church consecrates Karen Bartos to a life of virginity. As we heard in the reading from the prophet Hosea, God has called Karen...Read More

I. Introduction A. I am delighted to comment on the important book of Professors Schindler and Healy on the formation and interpretation of Dignitatis Humanae (DH), Freedom, Truth, and Human Dignity (FTHD). In the interest of full disclosure, let me say that this text has been very helpful to me in preparing talks leading up...Read More