Introduction Brother Bishops, Priests and Deacons, dear Religious, Seminarians of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and beyond, families and friends of our candidates for Ordination, and especially you who are so soon to be ordained: Christopher, William, Joshua, and Francis: The Lord Jesus, in the Gospel, says to us, and to you, today: “The Son of...Read More

Introduction Let me begin with words of appreciation for the leadership, participation & generosity of you, the lay faithful, of this parish of St. Joseph-on-Carrollton Manor. What a day of joy as we bless and dedicate this beautiful new home for a growing family of faith! How grateful we are to the planners, architects, &...Read More

Introduction As a very young priest, I served under a good pastor. Yet in his kindness, he made a serious mistake. He allowed me to plan and celebrate the Easter Vigil when I had been a priest less than a year. It turned out to be a rainy evening but I was undeterred. I gathered...Read More

A First Mass Homily? Dear seminarians: Suppose that on the day after your priestly ordination, you went to your home parish to celebrate your first Mass, stood in the pulpit, and proclaimed yourself to be the Messiah. No doubt the eyes of the entire congregation would be upon you! This must be one of the reasons...Read More