Pastor's Notes

Spoiler Alert

September 20, 2020

“Let him turn to the Lord for mercy, to our God, who is generous …
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord.
As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways
and my thoughts above your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:7-9)

 
These words from the prophet Isaiah are found in the part of the Old Testament book, chapters 40 – 55, known as “consolation.” The chapters are oracles of salvation, not judgment. This “spoiler” embraces today’s Gospel, Matthew 20:1-16a.

In the Gospel, Jesus uses a parable to teach His disciples. The parable is a long metaphor whose aim is to provoke thought about life in the kingdom of heaven. A landowner went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. He goes out again at nine. Finding workers standing idle, he hires them also and says he will pay them what is just. This scenario is repeated at noon and again at three, all with the same agreement regarding just wages.

When the landowner went out at five, he again found workers standing idle. Upon questioning, the landowner learned that no one had hired them. So the landowner employed them at the usual wage. At day’s end, the landowner instructed his foreman, “Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.” When those who had been working over 12 hours received the same wages as those who were hired last, they began to grumble.

Here is where Isaiah’s spoiler alert prevails. He points out the qualities that are illustrated by the landowner – fairness, mercy, different ways of thinking, generosity. The landowner asks three questions: 1) “My friend, I am not cheating you. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what is yours and go.” 2) “Am I not free to do as I wish with my own money?”  3) “Are you envious because I am generous?”

If we were to view this Gospel as a business model, we would have to say, it has little or no applicability to ourselves. Wait! Let’s take a cue from Isaiah! What can we do to make our ways and thoughts more like those of Christ?

Christ wants us to emulate Him more closely, When faced with a multitude of options in these times of the pandemic, can we take an extra moment to reflect and become more Christ-like in our thoughts and ways? Do we know of anyone who needs help with transportation? Is there someone who needs some help with household chores? Can I do an errand for an elderly person? Can I make an extra contribution to those in need? Others?

Let’s weigh our choices. Can we reach inside ourselves, and make the most of the opportunities presented, even to the point of making sacrifices? No one choice is right for everyone. Each one of us is a different person, with different circumstances. In faith, hope and love, let us work toward the betterment of all.
 

Father Storey

 

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A Beacon of Faith, Hope and Love

September 6, 2020

In these troubling times in which we live, we are faced with some very serious burdens. At times they seem absolutely insurmountable. We pray; we seek advice; we look for answers; we desperately need someone to point the way.

I recall a memorable homily given several years ago by my good friend and fellow priest, Father Don Cullen. He told about a couple who had come to him seeking counseling because they were having marriage problems. After listening to them, Father thought to himself, “They don’t have any problems that are all that difficult.” He advised them to go to Children’s Mercy Hospital and visit the patients, to go to the cafeteria there and eat lunch. “Then,” he told them, “if you still think you have problems, come back and see me next week.” They called Father Cullen on Saturday and said, “We have no problems!” The solution was all in their perspective.

Have we taken the time to truly examine our perspective in all this craziness?

In these past Sundays in Ordinary Time, we have been following a path on our journey back to the Father, proscribed for us by the Evangelist Matthew. We have been guided by parables and stories related in the Gospels. Tomorrow, Sept. 14, we celebrate the Feast of The Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Here for us is a brilliant beacon with a far-reaching light, shining for all to see. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but might have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

The cross is a rich symbol of our faith. A cross is seen as an instrument of punishment and suffering. Through Jesus Christ’s freely embracing the Holy Cross, He gave us His all. The cross now has become for us a symbol of resurrection and redemption, a beacon of faith, hope and love. Every time we make the Sign of the Cross we assert our faith: it is a symbol of who we are and whose we are.

Christ told us that, if we were to be His disciples, we must pick up our cross and follow Him; but He never told us that it would be easy. Do we have a Simon to help us carry our cross? We have Someone better! We have Christ Himself; all we have to do is ask Him.

We can’t foresee how or when or where we are going to receive the help we need to carry our crosses, to bear our burdens, to solve our problems. But we can take solace and hope in the words of the Lord’s Prayer: “Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

In faith and love, let us pick up our cross and follow Christ – knowing that He will always be there for us, providing the help we need.

Father Storey
 

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Come to Me

August 30, 2020

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”  (Matthew 11:28). For Labor Day weekend’s Pastor’s Notes, I was drawn to this quotation. It is actually part of the Gospel for July 5, the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A). Especially in our current environment we seem to see and experience nothing but difficulties, hard work, toil and burdens. The lives of each and every one of us have been severely disrupted by this horrendous world-wide pandemic known as Covid19.

Unexpected burdens surround us. Uncertainty about employment/unemployment, schools opening, food shortages, medical supplies, insufficient household items, etc., etc. Families quarantined, elderly not being able to attend Mass, travel curtailed, airlines temporarily not being able to fly, sports events cancelled or curtailed. The lists go on and on.

Yet, among all this, we can find glimmers of hope, trust and charity. If we just look a bit outside ourselves, we can find many acts of kindness, concern and love for our neighbor.

As you know, Matthew wrote for a Jewish Christian community, to show that Jesus was the Fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies, that He truly was God. The Divinity of Christ is depicted throughout this Gospel. The quotation with which I began these Notes was preceded by, “No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal Him. Then in a great swell of encouragement, we hear the invitation to “Come to me,” followed by “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

My dear friends, let us take our present environment, fears and difficulties – as well as joys and triumphs – with which we find ourselves surrounded, and with meekness and humility, place them in God’s hands. Take comfort from His promise and say “Here I am Lord, I come to do your will.”  And do not forget to look for and to thank God for His many blessings. We need to stay focused on the positives and the many blessings we have received.

God loves you always!  

Father Storey
 

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Reentry to Curé of Ars

August 23, 2020

Greetings to you all. It is so good to be back at the parish. I returned back home last Friday and have taken the past week to isolate and make sure I did not bring anything home with me via the airplane or travels to and from the airport. I have been taking my temperature and have had zero symptoms.

For the past four months, I was able to enter into a program that allowed me to look at all areas of my life, that is my mind, my body, and my soul. This program helped me grow in self-awareness. I was able to identify stressors and learn how to manage emotions. So often I would turn to food and drink to deal with stress. I was able to learn to eat healthier and by doing so was able to lose a bit of weight. I also learned to set appropriate boundaries in my ministry. I can’t do it all myself. This means at times saying “no” or asking for help. I must allow others to help me fulfill all areas of ministry.

I am back to work now but will have to continue to take time to take care of myself. I have heard many of you say this and I truly do listen to you. I promise to continue this journey of keeping myself healthy in mind, body, and soul. None of us journey alone. We need the help of others. I have asked four parishioners to be part of a continued care plan for me and to help keep me accountable in staying healthy so that I can be the priest God wants me to be for you.

I want to thank Archbishop Naumann for allowing me this time to be away. I want to offer a great thanks to Fr. Frank Burger for giving his time to Cure of Ars and leading the parish and the school through these tough times. Frank is a good friend and one fine priest. Thank you to Fr. Haganey and Fr. Quy for helping Fr. Burger see that everyone was taken care of sacramentally. Thank you to the staff for working so hard. Thank you to the school for staying the course. Finally, thank you to the parish for your love and support. I received countless cards and notes and emails and other forms of support and love. I was truly humbled with your love and support.

As we continue this journey, let us remain healthy in mind, body, and soul. Let us build up the kingdom of God and let us support, love, and work our way to heaven. Thank you for your kindness and welcoming me home.

 

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The 18th Sunday of Ordinary Time

As the summer moves along, many have been asking about when Father Storey will be returning to the parish. I have spoken with him, and although I do not have an exact date, he expects that it will be early in August. I am happy to hear that, and I know that many have been anticipating his return as well.

Who would have foreseen the kind of economic, health and school attendance scenario that we have been experiencing? We are still in the midst of coping with the uncertainties associated with these situations.

The members of Cure of Ars have been extraordinarily patient and united in helping the staff to continue to offer the Mass and sacraments here. Baptisms, Funerals and Weddings have been disrupted, put off, or held with a minimum of participants, and will continue to be offered in the best manner possible. Thanks to all for both your continued attendance and financial support.

Along with this, we are finishing up with the addition of the Parish Activity Center, renovation of the administration offices and converting the gymnasium into Middle School classrooms. There are also many other infrastructure updates within the buildings, as well as the reconfiguration of the entrances and exits from Mission Road. Your continued support of the rebuilding campaign will continue to see us safely into the completion of these projects.

At the present, we are preparing for the re-opening of the school for the fall semester, and much planning and attention to health and safety have been ongoing through the summer. Keeping up with the various announcements from all of the health, education and governmental agencies have been a focus of these preparations.

e are holding five first communion Masses on the 1st, 8th, and 15th of August in order to comply with the need for separation. Congratulations to the parents, grandparents and children of these young ones receiving Our Lord in the Eucharist for the first time..

Father Frank Burger

 

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We are family

July 26, 2020

In this most uncommon of times, it may be good to realize how much we rely on one another as we go through the sacrifices we’re called upon to make before we can overcome the consequences of living with the corona virus.

Each day the news tells of the various states approach and the results of their particular way of dealing with this situation.  Some, it shows, are doing much better than others.

As I write this it is Tuesday, July 21st, and in the gospel Jesus asks the question, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?”  Jesus says that his disciples are his family because they do the will of the heavenly father.

At the end of His life, Jesus from the cross speaks to His mother and tells her that John, the beloved disciple is now her son and she is his mother.  Mary’s greatness lies in her being chosen to be the mother of Jesus, and in her total commitment to God’s will for her. 

Mary is also one of us. We too say yes to the word of God becoming flesh in us.  We are called to give birth to the presence of Christ in our world.

Amidst all of the differing opinions about what our response should be in these challenging days, we should also contemplate that we are all, as brothers and sisters in Christ, family. It means, at least, that we will do all we can to help one another, and avoid anything that could cause more harm.

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Father Frank Burger
 
 

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16th Sunday of Ordinary Time

July 19, 2020

As I write this article, we will be celebrating the 2020 graduates from Curé of Ars School. It has been a while in coming as have so many things that have been postponed this summer – weddings and even funerals.  I want to offer my prayers and congratulations to our graduating 8th graders and wish them the best during the coming years.  And, of course, a big thanks to the teachers that they have had over the years to prepare them scholastically and spiritually for the next stage of their lives. Thank you, also, to the parents of these students.  The trust and support that you have given to our school means so much to our parish.

We are, of course, in the coming weeks preparing for the upcoming school year.  There will certainly still be many challenges to face in inviting our students back.  Physically the school facilities have undergone a tremendous change over the summer months.  It is not just in the new Parish Activity Center building that change has occurred but in so much of the school as well.  The changes include a new secure entrance, administrative offices, and the former gymnasium renovated into a new Middle School space.  I know our students will be more than pleased with the renovations involved in this project.  The success of this effort is due to the tremendous support that has come from our parish family.

Finally, I believe that we are getting close to the return of our pastor, Father Storey. Our prayers are with him.   I know that he is anxious to return and take up task and privilege of continuing as pastor of Curé of Ars.  I have not heard a final date of his return, but am confident that it will be soon.  I have enjoyed my time here at Curé of Ars – actually my return to Curé of Ars – as I was here as a young assistant in the late 60s.  Everyone here has been more than kind and helpful.

Father Frank Burger
 
 

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Fourteenth Sunday of Year

On the 29th of June, we celebrated the Feasts of two of the great saints of the church – Saint Peter and Saint Paul.  When in Rome, at the Vatican, you can see two large statues of them gracing either side of the entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica.

Of the two, St. Peter was among the twelve apostles called by Jesus.  Originally named Simon, Jesus gave him the name of Peter which means “rock”.  Peter appears in the gospels as bold, decisive, doubtful, impetuous, and fearful at different times in his following of Jesus.  It short he was a very human person, like all of us.  It was this “Rock” who denied Christ not once but three times, and later repented his denial and assumed leadership of the early Church.

St. Paul was a devout Jew and a persecutor of the Church, but in a vision of Christ he became convinced that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah. He went on to become a zealous missionary and servant of the Gospel.  His letters of encouragement to the Church are often found as the second reading at our Masses.
St. Paul was largely responsible for extending the message of the gospel to gentile people throughout the Roman Empire.

Both of these saints can guide us through the difficult times of our lives. St. Peter as the “Rock” offering us stability, and St. Paul as a missionary showing us the way.
 

Father Frank Burger
 

 

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Thirteenth Sunday of the Year

June 28, 2020

Health officials and medical advisors continue to stress the importance of exercising ongoing discretion in
activities and ask that we all follow wherever possible, the heath guidelines regarding social distancing, wearing masks, hand washing, sanitizing of surfaces and other reasonable measures to make ourselves and others safe.

The dispensation given for all Catholics in the Archdiocese by Archbishop Naumann from the obligation to
attend Sunday Mass will remain in effect until it is safe to lift it. Persons with higher vulnerability, or for personal reasons, are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the dispensation and refrain from attending public Mass on Sunday.

We are in the Thirteenth week of Ordinary Time in our readings for this Sunday. St. Paul reminds us in the
reading from the Epistle to the Romans that we who are Baptized are baptized into the death of Christ. He even says “Are you Unaware” about what this Baptism means. St. Paul firmly believes that those who are Baptized into Christ are graced with the ability to be free of sin.

With the readings today, we have an opportunity both to reflect on and re-dedicate ourselves to the commitment of our Baptism.

I want to thank all who have remained faithful in your offerings to Cure of Ars parish during this unusual
time. These donations are the source of our operation as a parish and we both need and appreciate your continued support.
 

Father Frank

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Update for June 21, 2020

We are continuing with the present method of attending weekend Masses here at Cure of Ars.  Reservations for individual Masses can be made online or, lacking internet, calling the parish to make a reservation.  Safe distancing, wearing of masks, frequent washing and sanitizing hands when going out in public are still strongly encouraged!
 
On the 9^th of June we received the latest word from the Archdiocese entitled “Safety Protocols for Public Worship in the Midst of Ongoing Pandemic” I would like to devote this bulletin article to what the Archdiocese has recommended.
 
 It noted first of all that the numbers of infections appear to be trending down across Kansas in general, however there may be an upsurge of cases in the future.  Governor Kelly has ceded control to the counties.
 
Additionally, it notes that the Archdiocese seeks to collaborate with state and local governments for the common good.  Therefore, it is extremely important that all priests and parish staff review and remain up to date on the plans of the county in which they are located
 
Safety Guidelines 

1. All parishes are encouraged to follow the recommendations for conducting religious services.

2. The obligation to attend Sunday Mass is dispensed until further notice.

3. Persons with higher vulnerability, or for personal safety reasons are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the dispensation and refrain from attending public Mass

4. Those with symptoms should not attend any religious service.

5. The total gathering number of people is the maximum number of people that can fit in the space and still maintain social distancing

6. All attendees should be encouraged to wear masks at Mass

7. We do not encourage reception of Holy Communion on the tongue at this time.

 
It’s a difficult time; let us continue to pray for one another.
 

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Feast of Corpus Christi

June 14, 2020

Last week we were able to open the church for weekend Masses with a congregation present at the Mass. This has been looked forward to by the celebrants of the Masses as well as by those who are now able to attend Mass in person. Welcome back to the Church!

We are reminded to still keep in mind the various restrictions for attending Mass. We anticipate further updates from the Archdiocese about the extent of these restrictions and will pass them along as soon as we receive them. We hope that that will be this week. In the mean-time we are still dispensed from the obligation of attending Sunday Mass until further notice, to keep the six feet of distance, to disinfect the buildings and ourselves and to avoid crowds.

We celebrate this Sunday, and it seems rather appropriate, the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. It is also well known as Corpus Christi Sunday. It celebrates the institution of the Eucharist at the last supper Christ held with his Apostles. It comes in the same time frame in which we are finally able to receive the Eucharist at Mass in our churches.

This feast was established in the church by Pope Urban IV on September 8, 1264, eight centuries ago. It was to be held on the Thursday after the Feast of the Holy Trinity which we celebrated last week. It was not designated to be held on Holy Thursday, the day that Christ instituted the Eucharist, due to the penitential aspect of Holy Week when thoughts were centered on the passion and death of Our Lord.

More recently it has been moved to the Sunday after the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity. This Sunday is a wonderful opportunity as we approach the altar to receive Our Lord to have a prayer of thanksgiving to Pope Urban for instituting the feast and to Our Lord for offering us His Body and Blood as food for our journey.

Father Frank Burger

 

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Trinity Sunday

June 7, 2020

We are moving from having our church closed to celebrating Mass together in the church beginning this Saturday, June 6th. Mass times will remain as they have been during the shutdown at 4:00 PM Saturdays and 8:00, 10:00, and 12:00 PM on Sundays. Everyone attending Mass in the church will be required to wear a mask during the Mass.

The Archbishop has dispensed all parishioners from the obligation of attendance at Sunday Mass until further notice. Those of us who are older, and those with underlying medical conditions, or simply concerns about safety are encouraged to use this dispensation from the attendance at Mass. Masses will continue to be streamed on-line for all daily at 10 AM and Saturdays at 4 PM.

Space is limited in the church due to the need to set it up in a way that will insure the six-foot distancing requirement. Signing up for a particular Mass will be necessary in order not to overbook any Masses. See today’s bulletin for information on that.

Above all we want all of our parishioners to be safe. Staying at home and wearing a mask in public, keeping distance from others when out of your house, taking advantage of the dispensation from Mass –all are ways to lessen the likelihood of infection during this time.

We look forward, still, until the time when we can all gather together unrestricted, and we pray for all of you and for all our first responders and victims of the corona virus.

 

Father Frank Burger

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Pentecost Sunday

May 31, 2020 

On Saturday, June 6^th, we anticipate opening our church for Saturday evening, and Sunday masses here at Cure of Ars.  Many have told of their desire to return to our church for Mass, and how important it is for them to have the Eucharist available at Mass.  There are also many who have reservations about gathering in a church at the present time
 
Nursing homes, and other places that require close contact continue to be places of increased incidences of positive tests for the Corona virus.  We hope and await the testing and availability of a vaccine to give us immunity. That is going to be our best hope of returning to our normal way of living. In the meantime, it is a good opportunity to remind everyone of the need to stay and home and stay safe.  Keeping distance going out only for reasons of necessity, and wearing a mask in public places are the things that we can do to mitigate the danger of infection.
 
The Archdiocese has directed the opening of our churches for the celebration of Mass with a congregation present.  At Cure of Ars we will, this Sunday, still be having Mass by the Celebrant in the Church and the congregation in the parking lot where communion will be distributed after Mass.  So, this Sunday that is the manner in which Mass and Communion will be available.
 
Beginning on Sunday, June 6^th, we anticipate opening the church to a congregation with sign-ups on line for the particular Mass that you want to attend under the directions given by the Archdiocese.  Seating will be in only every third pew, in pew seating will be with six-foot distance between families and requiring the wearing of masks for those who attend.  Sanitation supplies will be on hand at the church entrances, and sanitizing will be done between Masses.
 
You are aware that the Archbishop has extended, temporarily, the dispensation from the obligation of attendance at Sunday Mass.  Those of us who are older, and those with underlying medical conditions, or for concerns about safety are invited to make use of this dispensation. Even the young and those in good health are included in this dispensation from the attendance at Mass.
 
We look forward to the day when we can all gather together unrestricted, and we pray for all our first responders, the victims of the corona virus and all of our parish family.  Thank you all for your kindness and attention as we cope with this most unusual time.
 

Father Frank Burger
 

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Feast of the Ascension

May 24, 2020

With the celebration of the Feast of the Ascension, formerly celebrated on a Thursday, we have completed the forty days of Easter – the same amount of time we spent in the Lenten Season.  Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to give these 40 days of Easter the joyous celebrations that we have had in the past.

Rather we have spent much of the Easter season with our churches shut down, live streaming our Masses, delaying weddings and funeral memorials and generally feeling not in the happy Easter season, but rather seeming to be in some kind of extended penitential Lenten season.

This is true not only of our religious observations but the ordinary rituals of our lives both at work and at home.

We are in phase 1, or I guess more accurately Phase 1.5, of the extraordinary disruptions that our lives have taken.  The hope, of course, is to move as swiftly and as safely as possible into phase four and the end of the restrictions presently in place.

This week and next we will still be celebrating Mass in a closed church and distributing Communion in the parking lot.

On Sunday, June 6th, we intend to begin having our Masses in the Church with the congregation being present in the Church as well.  We will have to observe all of the precautions mandated by the Archdiocese when we open the Church.  Much more will be written about those precautions in the bulletin next week, We are actively preparing for that time and will keep a keep a careful watch for any adverse effects suffered by those attending.

It is good, and part of the instructions of the Archdiocese, that the elderly, those with compromising medical conditions stay at home in order to remain safer.

We are all, from personal decisions about safety or other concerns, still dispensed by the Archbishop from the obligation of attending Mass on Sunday until he decides to lift the dispensation.

May 17, 2020

Dear Parishioners,
 
We hope that you are staying safe and healthy.  As we begin the first phase of reopening in Kansas and Johnson County, we wish to convey the early stages of reopening at Curé of Ars.  We understand the desire that many of you have to celebrate mass together in our church.  The implementation of the initial phase has not been taken lightly.  Feedback from the Archdiocese, other Pastors and the responsibility of keeping our parishioners safe is driving our decision for a gradual reopening.
 
It is for the safety of all, that the Archbishop has continued the dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sunday stating, “So Catholics do not feel compelled to attend Mass during the ongoing pandemic, the dispensation given from the obligation for Catholics to attend Sunday Mass will remain in effect until it is safe to revoke it.”
 
He went on to say, “Persons with higher vulnerability, for personal safety reasons, are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this dispensation and refrain from attending public Mass.”
 
I am convinced that the option of using the dispensation from Mass is the best policy for all. The larger the gatherings we hold, the more likely it will be that infection for some will follow. One need not have an illness or feel sick to excuse himself from attendance at Mass during this time of the dispensation.
 
With this guidance in mind, we have decided that Curé of Ars will initially offer both Mass and Communion with attendees remaining in their vehicles in the parking lot starting May 23 and 24 for weekend Masses. We will continue to offer streaming services online for daily Mass and weekend Mass for those who prefer to watch from home. For instructions on how to sign up for a Mass time, please click HERE.
 
Like most of you, we want to be able to hold Mass in the church with the congregation present with us, but I believe that the recommendation of the Archdiocese offers the greatest opportunity for assuring safety for those who long not only for Mass but for Communion as well. The opening of Masses within the church will continue to be evaluated as the guidelines from the Archdiocese, the county and the state are updated. Each church in the Archdiocese has unique challenges due to building and facility differences and we will continue to consider these factors at Curé. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate through the phases of reopening.
 
Let us all pray for the development of a vaccine effective against Covid-19, as well as, for all who have been affected by this disease.  Although we are physically distanced, we remain spiritually united.
 
Stay safe and stay well,
 
Father Burger

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Fifth Sunday of Easter

May 10, 2020

This weekend we celebrate the fifth Sunday of Easter.  We are still hearing from the letter of St. Peter this weekend in the second reading.  In this reading St. Peter provides us with one of the most inspiring, beautiful and challenging definitions of what it means to be a Christian and a member of the Church.

He reminds us: “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation.”  In this time of apprehension and uncertainty our lives may seem like we have been chosen for some sort new plague on the nation. 

Yet, as the Easter Season continues, we are invited to take the look at history from the long viewpoint.  St. Peter reminds us again as Christians: You have been called out of darkness into the wonderful light of Christ.”

We exercise our royal priesthood when we share our faith with others, inviting them to also become part of God’s chosen people.  We have all been heartened by the many stories of self- sacrificing service by so many health workers, first responders and also the many kind deeds of assistance by our friends and neighbors.

As the tilting and turning of the earth toward the sun during this spring season brings new life to its lands, we can also understand how our turning of our hearts to Christ and to one another brings new life to our souls.

Thanks to all the members of Cure of Ars for your care for one another.  May it continue as a mark of our ordinary way of being with one another.  Stay home and stay well until we can come together and worship together.

 
Father Burger
 
 

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If we would just stop

May 3, 2020

The reading from the first letter of Peter for this Sunday gives us a reminder about what our faith entails - it certainly gives us joy in following the Lord, but that joy can be accompanied by sacrifice as well.

We spend most of our days going about the things we think we're supposed to do in order to get to the place we think we're supposed to go. We check off the accomplishments along the way, assuming that with each item marked "done" we're that much closer to success or happiness - or whatever goal we've set for ourselves. But today's reading reminds us that the path is much simpler and, at the same time, much more challenging.

Over and over, we hear that God is calling us, which is a comfort that comes with sacrifice. Following God's call does not guarantee a life free of heartache or a life filled with riches or a life marked by ease.

What it does guarantee is that no matter where that call takes us, we will not have to weather any of it alone. The Lord will shepherd us, seeking us out when we stray, pulling us back when we want to rush ahead - if we would just stop and listen to the One who has the answers to all the questions we are asking.

Today, we can stop and listen, trust in God's love for us and our love for one another. We are all called, chosen, beloved.

Let us during this time of six feet of separation not let us separate ourselves from one another in prayer.

Father Burger
 

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Third Sunday of Easter

April 26, 2020

The frightened disciples are gathered behind locked doors. For fear of the Jews! It’s not the Jews that are keeping us behind our doors, but the virus. Our world is captured by the possibility of a very serious illness. The fear of the disciples was different, and in some ways the same. The fear “will I be next”.

Into the midst of this fearful space comes Jesus, even though the doors were locked! He is inviting his disciples to accept the peace He is offering them. It is not a peace that ignores the brutality inflicted on Him as He shows his hands and His feet. It is a peace that recognizes full well the horror of what has happened to Him, and His willingness to enter into healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation, rather than retaliatory violence.

What results is an invitation by Jesus. Just as the Creator God brings life into the first human being by breathing into his nostrils, Jesus brings back to life the frightened community.

But there are some who are still locked in their fear and set up conditions before they can come to believe. The Apostle Thomas, who was not there at the first appearance of Jesus voices His doubt. He needs to see with his own eyes and touch with his own hands.

There can be no second hand faith. The testimony of other believers may lead one to Jesus, but it does not substitute for the tangible experience of Christ with us needed by each one of us.

Stay home and stay safe until we can meet again in our Church.

Father Burger
 

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IF WE CAN REMEMBER THAT

April 19, 2020

              Resurrection … is entirely unnatural.  When someone goes into the ground, that is that.  You do not wait around for the person to re-appear so you can pick up where you left off – not this side of the grave anyway. You say good-bye.  You pay your respects and go on with your life as best you can, knowing that the only p-lace springtime happens in a cemetery is on the graves, not in them.

That is all Mary was doing that morning – paying her respects, going to His tomb to convince herself that it was all true.  It was still dark, but even from a distance she knew that something was wrong.  Someone had moved the stone.  Someone had taken Him away – God knew where. His body was all she had left and now it was gone.

But Jesus was back with His Father and inviting us to be with him.  “If I go I will come back to take you where I am”.  This may be why the gospel accounts of the resurrection tell us to not be afraid.  To expect a sealed tomb, and find one filled with angels is frightening.  To seek a body and find a risen Lord was unnatural.

Death is natural.  Loss is natural. Grief is natural.  But the stone has been rolled away this Easter to reveal to us the possibility of new life.  Not just life after our death, but new life now.

God has planted a seed of life in us that cannot be killed, and if we can remember that – there is nothing to fear.

Please everyone – stay safe – keep a distance, and wash.

 

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Palm Sunday

April 5, 2020

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Lent’s battle cry is “Repent”! This familiar call to change directions assumes both “from” and “to”. Lent’s temptation can be to focus on the “from”; turning away from our sinful ways.

Lest we forget, Jesus supplies the all-important “to”: Believe in the Gospel. And the Apostles Creed is our Amen. We pray it powerfully at Easter When we renew our baptismal promises, when we promise to turn away from all evil and to profess belief in the good news of God, using the Apostles Creed in question and answer form.

Our present age has given us the opportunity to become impersonal in our communications and somewhat isolated from each other. The Creed we embrace refuses to accept that. The creed reminds us that Jesus Christ became man for us and suffered and died for us. He is man and God and we are made in His image and likeness.

What this means for us is that we are meant to be not only an image of God, but also an image of service as Jesus was of service to one another. “If anyone wants to be great among you, he must be the servant of all”.
We are reminded in the second reading today that Jesus “Jesus Christ, though He was in the form of God, did not deem equality with God something to be grasped at. Rather, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave…He humbled himself, becoming obedient even to the point of death on a cross.

Jesus showed us the way to true glory and a direction for ourselves. He emptied Himself. A theological word for that is “Kenosis”. Giving everything that there is to give of oneself to another.

I hope that all of our parishioners are doing everything that is asked and even beyond that to stay safe and healthy.

May God protect us all and may we cooperate with His grace.

Father Burger

 

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The Fifth Sunday of Lent

March 22, 2020

              When in the gospel of John, Jesus contrasts walking In the day to walking at night, we know it refers to more than getting home before curfew,  In today’s gospel, which is the story of the raising of Lazarus from the dead, we are invited to examine our own faith as disciples.

              In John’s telling, the first phase of the challenge to faith for the disciples comes when Jesus says he is ready to return to Judea – the area around Jerusalem they had just left because people were preparing to stone him.

            Thomas speaks for the group saying in effect “Are you stark raving mad?” (John’s more respectful translation reads: “Rabbi, the Jews were just trying to stone you, and you want to go back there?”)

            If Jesus were determined to head toward danger, Thomas wouldn’t leave him to do so alone:  He said: “Let us also go to die with him.”  If love and loyalty count for faith, Thomas had plenty of it.

            The second phase of the challenge of the gospel came with Martha’s interaction with Jesus.  Often in the gospel it is women who push Jesus to do more:  The Syrophoenician woman argued for a cure for her daughter; the mother of Jesus called for more wine, and in the incident in the gospel today, Mary and Martha both let him know, “If you had been here, our brother would not have died.” 

            But Jesus called Lazarus forth and restored his life.  But really death meant something different to Christ, and gave us a sure proof of the resurrection in the miracle in today’s Gospel. 

            As we are all facing the disruption of the rules regarding social distance, we hope that all of our parishioners can be safe and healthy, and be reminded of the consequences of disregarding the need for vigilance and compliance.  We will get through this!

            I also encourage all to continue with the generous support for the needs of the church. Our expenses continue on in spite of closing the church and school building.  Switching to EFT’s (sign up at https://cureofars.weshareonline.org/ ) or mailing in your offering would be deeply appreciated.

Father Burger

 

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March 16, 2020

 
Dear Cure of Ars Parish,

            Lent is a time to truly reflect on our life in Jesus Christ.  I have been reflecting for the past two weeks and I feel it is necessary for me to be honest with myself and with the ones I am called to serve.

            I want to be able to be the best pastor for each of you.  I, at the same time, have to be honest and humble and admit my limitations.  I have been in direct contact with Archbishop Naumann and he and I feel it would be beneficial for me to take some time for my spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health. 

            This time will allow me to grow in my spiritual wellbeing and at the same time allow me to focus on me and my physical wellness.  My health is good.  I have no preexisting illnesses but want to remain this way.  I want to take this time and renew my commitment to Jesus Christ and His priesthood and to you who I am being called to serve.  Archbishop Naumann has granted me this time to enter into a spiritual and wellness program that will be about three months.  I am excited to enter this and I ask of you three things.  First, I need your support.  Second, I need your love, and finally, I need your prayers.

            Fr. Frank Burger, a brother priest, a good friend, and my first mentor, will be assigned as the administrator of Cure of Ars while I am gone.  The Archbishop has total confidence in Fr. Frank and I know he will take care of your spiritual needs as well as keep our building project in line.  Fr. Frank has a lot of experience in parish expansions and buildings.

            I want to thank Archbishop Naumann, Fr. Frank Burger and all the priests here at Cure—Fr. Haganey, Fr. Tony Licktieg, and Fr. Quy—who will be of great assistance to Fr. Frank Burger in making sure your spiritual needs are met.

            I am grateful to the Archbishop for allowing me to receive the necessary assistance I need so that I can return to Cure of Ars. Thank you for your support and your prayers.  I look forward to returning to you healthier and better to equipped to serve and lead this vibrant community [that I love].

Sincerely,
Fr. Richard E. Storey

 

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Change for Holiness

March 15, 2020

Our Church uses three cycles in its Sunday and Holy Day Liturgical Years. Cycle year A features the Gospel according to Matthew, B features Mark’s Gospel, and C showcases Luke. Each evangelist presents events and explanations from the life of Christ in a slightly different manner, according to his own life experiences and purpose in writing his Gospel. The First and Second Readings as well as the Gospel repeat every third year. The readings we are hearing in 2020 were last heard in 2017, and in 2014 prior to that.

Sometimes we find ourselves lulled by the repetition of the readings that we hear over the years, and don’t really experience the fullness of the treasury of these readings. Over the past few years, especially during Advent and Lent we choose a theme for the season, with the intention of refocusing our attention to a certain aspect of our readings in order to gain a new perspective. This Lenten season (2020) we redirect our attention using the theme “Called to Holiness and Saintliness.” We must change our lives in order to draw closer to God, become more holy, more saintly. We use the flow of the readings for the Second Sunday of Lent Cycle A to illustrate.

In the First Reading, the Lord God tells Abram (his name was changed to Abraham in Gen, Chap. 17) to leave his homeland to become the leader of a great nation.  Abram obeys the difficult life-changing command because he loves God and has faith in him. Especially during Lent, we are encouraged to change our life styles, to perform acts of self-denial: fasting, abstaining from eating meat on Fridays, extra prayers and almsgiving in order to draw ourselves closer to the suffering of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Saint Paul, writing to his young disciple, Timothy, tells him to use the strength that comes from God to bear his share of hardship for the Gospel: “He saved us and called us to a holy life …” Paul assures Timothy that God provides whatever is necessary to live in holiness and fidelity to God’s Word.

A theophany is a mysterious, divine appearance that includes a revelation. In the Gospel, we witness an awesome revelation that shows Jesus’ hidden identity both through His transfigured appearance, and through God’s words to the disciples: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”

Jesus had led Peter, James, and John up on a high mountain where Jesus was transfigured before them. He was then seen in the company of Moses and Elijah. The inclusion of these two holy men was essential to Matthew’s narrative which was directed toward his audience of Christian Jews, as it shows the continuity of the Jewish tradition. Both Moses (in Exodus 24) and Elijah (1 Kings 19) had ascended a mountain to witness a theophany in which God spoke to them.

We might not actually experience a theophany, but we can let this transfiguration bring light to our darkest days and ease the burden of our greatest suffering. Let us change our lives to make our Lenten acts of prayer, fasting and almsgiving joyful, so that our Easter celebration will be joyful, holy and saintly.

Father Storey
 
 

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GUIDELINES FOR THE FLU SEASON AND THE SACRED LITURGY
From the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

When we gather to celebrate the Eucharist, our primary concern is our attentive participation in the Church’s sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving.  However, in any public gathering of people, the sharing of germs and pathogens is inevitable. In the midst of this cold and flu season, each of us has the fraternal responsibility of taking precautions to prevent the spread of contagious illnesses. Frequent hand-washing, covering of the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and regular habits for disease prevention, especially in high-risk areas, should be common practice.  As we face the possibility of a severe viral outbreak in our community, and with reports of the significant threat worldwide of the so-called Coronavirus, greater attention is required to keeping one another healthy.  Some practical steps, along with common sense, are critical to achieving this.

WHAT IS THE CONCERN? Concerns have been raised over whether the sharing of the communion chalice during Holy Communion contributes to the spread of the flu and any other contagious disease. The Centers for Disease Control notes: “Most healthy adults may be able to infect other people beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. Children may pass the virus for longer than seven days. Symptoms start one to four days after the virus enters the body. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Some people can be infected with the flu virus but have no symptoms. During this time, those persons may still spread the virus to others” (CDC, October 5, 2017). Those at higher risk of contracting the flu include children under the age of five, women who are pregnant, individuals age 65 and over, and anyone suffering from a compromised immune system (CDC, February 6, 2018).

SHOULD YOU COME TO MASS? The obligation to attend Mass on Sunday and other Holy Days of Obligation is the ordinary expectation for Roman Catholics (Canon 1247). However, extraordinary circumstances such as sickness or severe weather excuse the faithful from this obligation. If you suspect you have the flu, or are suffering from a serious cold or other contagious illness, please stay at home and do not risk spreading infection to others.

HOLDING HANDS DURING THE LORD’S PRAYER: Well-intentioned folks introduced this practice into parishes in the 1980s. Although holding hands can be a beautiful expression of people united in prayer, this gesture is neither envisioned nor encouraged by the Church as a proper liturgical action or gesture in any of her documents governing the Sacred Liturgy, and therefore, is neither called for nor required. It is most fitting to pray the “Our Father” with hands folded in prayer.

THE SIGN OF PEACE: Congregants should not take offense should others choose not to shake hands with their hands during the sign of peace. An appropriate gesture for those who are concerned about spreading the flu virus might be to simply clasp one’s hands together and, simply say, “Peace be with you.” It should be further noted that, while the greeting of peace exchanged between the priest and the congregation is required at Mass, the actual exchange of a sign of peace among the congregants at Mass is not (cf. Roman Missal, Order of Mass, 128; General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 154, 181).

RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION: Roman Catholics believe that both the Body and the Blood of Christ are fully present in the Holy Eucharist under the forms of each of the consecrated species; whether one receives only the Host or only the Precious Blood, one receives the fullness of our Lord’s sacramental presence.  While the Church permits reception of both forms at Mass, as a fuller sign of sharing in the Lord’s Supper, such a practice may not always be possible. Those feeling ill, or who suspect that they might have been exposed to a contagion, should refrain from receiving Holy Communion from the chalice, and receive only the Sacred Host. Likewise, extraordinary ministers feeling ill, or who suspect that they might have been exposed to a contagion, should refrain from distributing Holy Communion under either species.  Please note that it is never permitted nor appropriate for a communicant to dip the Host into the chalice; additionally, such an illicit practice may still directly contaminate the chalice.  Finally, pastors are granted by liturgical law to exercise discretion in distributing Holy Communion from the chalice, and may, without need for episcopal oversight, suspend or discontinue administering Holy Communion under both forms, especially depending on the potential severity of an outbreak of contagious disease within the parish boundaries. 

HEEDING MEDICAL ADVICE: Anyone having been told by a medical advisor that they are particularly susceptible to infection or to complications due to the flu or other communicable diseases should refrain from practices that might cause an illness, including the shaking of hands, the reception of Holy Communion on the tongue, the consuming of the Precious Blood from the Chalice, etc. All communicants aware of their being, or having been, ill should consider it their moral obligation to avoid these same practices, in order to prevent the spread of infectious and contagious disease.

 

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WALK IN HOLINESS

March 1, 2020

On this First Sunday of Lent, we find ourselves progressing on another Lenten journey, in search of saintliness and holiness. We know from past experience that this will be a long six weeks journey, wrought with trials and temptations. Perhaps it will help us to recall that a three-day trip begins with one day; a week-long trip begins with one day. Our forty days’ journey through Lent begins with one day. Take each day – one at a time – and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit make it a day of holiness, a day of saintliness.

Throughout his letter to the Romans, St. Paul writes as a Jew who knows the tradition well, including the account of the fall of Adam and Eve as presented in today’s First Reading. In the Second Reading, he attests that sin entered the world through one man – and relates the consequences thereof. Paul presumes his audience knows both the story of Adam’s sin and that of Christ’s saving death on the cross. Paul unfolds the meaning of this extraordinary manifestation of God’s love even for sinners.   

We know that we should seek forgiveness through the Sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation, but for way too many of us, we just do not. We create our own roadblocks; we let our pride get in the way. There are three ways to seek and receive forgiveness. The first two come to mind immediately: ask God to forgive us, and ask the forgiveness of others. The third might not be quite so obvious – we must be willing to forgive ourselves. Sometimes seeking forgiveness can be very difficult, but we must remember we are not alone. We must set aside our pride, and place our trust in God. 

Today’s Gospel relates how the Spirit led Jesus into the desert to be tempted by the devil. Jesus withstood three different temptations by the devil. Then angels of God came and ministered to him. Jesus was not alone. 

As we navigate the path of our personal Lenten journey into the desert, we can find ourselves fearful and anxious. We might ask ourselves, “How am I going to handle all these obstacles?” It’s OK to have fears, struggles and anxiety. Just remember you don’t have to face them alone. Recall the song of Rogers and Hammerstein featured in the musical “Carousel.”

When you walk through a storm
Hold your head up high
And don’t be afraid of the dark
At the end of the storm is a golden sky…

Walk in holiness! Ask the Blessed Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, to accompany you and guide you on this journey.

Walk on through the wind,
Walk on through the rain
Though your dreams be tossed and blown

Let The Holy Spirit lift your burdens and ease your anxiety and fears:

Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart
And you’ll never walk alone.

 

Father Storey    
 

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Called to Holiness

February 23, 2020

“Be holy, for I, the Lord, your God, am holy.” These words (Leviticus 19:1-2 cf) spoken to Moses, were to be presented to the entire Israelite community at the direction of the Lord God. Today, the last Sunday in Ordinary Time before Lent begins, these words received by our ears, enter our minds and hearts. They dwell within us,  urging us to reject earthly things and embrace those that will draw us closer to God, especially during this upcoming season of Lent.    
 
We are all called to be saints; we are all called to holiness. Saints are persons in heaven, whether officially canonized or not. When a person has been canonized by the Church, we call them Saints – with a capital “S.” All others in heaven are also saints; we just refer to them in writing with a lower case “s.” Ash Wednesday, February 26, begins a new Lenten journey – a time of penitence, a time for us to renew and improve our relationship with God; a time to focus on our calling to become saints, to become holy.
 
The Church has had an evolving process for declaring sainthood. During the first five centuries, the process was informal and based on public acclaim, termed vox populi, vox Dei (voice of the people, voice of God). Beginning in the sixth century, action by the local bishop was required before someone could be canonized.
 
In the tenth century, a cause for canonization followed along these lines: a deceased person’s reputation would spread; a request to the local bishop from the people to declare the person a saint occurred; and a biography would be written for the bishop. Upon favorable review, the bishop would issue a decree and thereby canonize the person. Now, however, the bishop collected eyewitness testimony from those who knew the candidate or witnessed miracles. The bishop would summarize the case and forward it for papal review. If the Pope approved, he would issue a decree declaring the person a canonized saint. The first documented case of papal intervention was in 993, by Pope John XV, in the cause of St. Ulric.
 
In 1588 when Pope Sixtus V reorganized the Roman Curia, he established the Congregation for Sacred Rites; one of its functions was to assist the Pope with reviewing causes for canonization. For almost 350 years, the process remained essentially the same. In 1917 a universal Code of Canon Law was promulgated. This rigorous code, which we currently use, contains 145 canons (1999-2144) on causes for canonization and includes provisions for an episcopal (diocesan) process and an apostolic process (Holy See), working and communicating with one another.
 
Usually a candidate for sainthood must have been deceased for five years before their case is accepted for review (“Servant of God”); however this requirement can be lifted by the Pope as we saw in the cause for Mother Teresa of Calcutta. In this procedure of 1917, there are three steps to sainthood. A candidate whose case has been accepted for review (i.e. a “Servant of God”) first becomes “Venerable,” then “Blessed” and finally “Saint.” Venerable is the title given to a person recognized formally by the Pope as having lived a heroically virtuous life or offered his or her life. To be beatified and recognized as a “Blessed,” one miracle acquired through the candidate's intercession is required in addition to recognition of heroic virtue or offering of life. Canonization requires a second miracle after beatification. The Pope may waive these requirements. A miracle is not required prior to a martyr's beatification, but one is required before canonization.
 
Wednesday we embark once again on our Lenten journey. We will receive a cross of ashes on our foreheads and hear the words, “Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return.” Let us embrace the spirit of this season, a time for increased prayer, fasting, almsgiving and penance and renew ourselves in our search for holiness and sainthood. We may want to consider praying through the intercession of one or more of the candidates for sainthood who may have influenced our lives: Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen; Fr. Michael McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus; or Fr. Emil Kapaun (pronounced KAY-pun), a native son of Kansas. May God bless us on our journey to sainthood and holiness.

  Father Storey  

              

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Deacon's Reflection

True Freedom

February 16, 2020

Today’s first reading from the book of Sirach is one of the foundational texts for the Church’s teaching that we are created with a free will and that we are responsible for our own actions. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1730, 1736) Sirach speaks about choices; choices between life and death, good and evil. As human beings we have the freedom to make choices.

God created us in His image, we’ve all heard that but what does it mean to be created in God’s image? Well, one of the ways we image God is that we have an immortal soul - infused into our being at conception -with it’s two great powers: the intellect and the will. It is with our intellect that we have the ability to know - more specifically to know what is true, good and beautiful. And with our will we are given the capacity to choose - to choose what is true, good and beautiful. God created us with a free will in order that we might be able to love. True love is more than sentimental feelings, it is an act of the will, to will the good of the other. Further, God placed in our heart a desire for Him, a longing to be united with Him. Since God is Himself Truth, Goodness and Beauty - when we choose well, we are ultimately choosing Him.

True freedom is not being able to do whatever I want. That is license and that is an abuse of my freedom. True freedom is the ability, the capacity, to choose the good. The more I choose the good, the more free I become. Jesus said. “If you remain in my word you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (Jn 8:31) The more I choose evil, the less free I become - as St. Paul says, we become “slaves to sin” which leads to death.

Jesus in our Gospel is giving us a prescription for life, for freedom and for happiness.  His teachings are from His Sermon on the Mount where He expands on the Ten Commandments. We should think of these commandments, not as restrictions to our freedom but, like all of Jesus’ teachings, as guidelines for us to lead us to freedom and happiness.

Picture yourself driving on one of those curvy roads in the mountains of Colorado at night, and it is raining. Just beyond the shoulder of the road is a steep drop off the edge of the mountain. The road is our path to God, the path of love leading to happiness and ultimately heaven. The headlights are like your intellect - showing you the safe way of the road. The steering wheel is like your will by which you choose to steer the car on that safe path. The guardrails and signs are the teachings of Jesus and His Church, the Catholic Church. They don’t limit our freedom but are given to help guide us, morally and spiritually, on our path through life safely - giving us true freedom to choose well, leading us to happiness and fulfillment. Ask Jesus for the grace to choose well.

Deacon Steve White

 

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You Are the Light of the World

February 9, 2020

              “You are the salt of the earth ... You are the light of the world.” The Gospel for today, the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (A), (Matt 5:13-16) is a continuation of the Sermon on the Mount whose beginning we usually hear on the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Last week, Feb. 2, the Fourth Sunday was superseded by the higher ranked Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.

The Evangelist Matthew describes the Sermon as taking place right after Jesus called the first of His disciples in Galilee. Trying to avoid crowds, Jesus went up a mountain and His disciples did likewise. Once all were seated, Jesus began to give them a tutorial on what it meant to be His follower. In this passage, Our Lord makes use of metaphors to teach. He addresses His disciples, asking for not just words, but actions.

Today’s text immediately follows the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes called Jesus’ disciples to act according to His view of righteousness. To hear Jesus’ teaching and fail to act upon it is worthless, like salt that has lost its flavor. Salt was used both to season and to preserve food. In Judaism salt could become unclean and therefore useless and had to be discarded. Matthew implies that followers who have heard Jesus’ way of living but fail to walk in that path are useless as His disciples.

The second metaphor “You are the light of the world,” recalls Isaiah’s message in Reading I. The prophesies in the closing chapters of Isaiah (56 – 66) include words of hope and comfort to God’s people toward the end of their long captivity in Babylonia, and present an opportunity for a new beginning. They are reminded of their lapses that led to their downfall, and receive exhortations to adhere to a more faithful fulfillment of their covenant promises. In Isaiah’s prophesy, what truly fulfills the Lord’s call and command is concrete action on behalf of the needy, the poor and the oppressed.

St. Francis of Assisi had another way of stating this principle: “Preach always; use words if you must.” To be effective, words must always be accompanied by deeds; good actions must always spring from proper intentions; and righteous acts are not done to exalt the one who performs them, but to “glorify your heavenly Father.”

The metaphorical images used in this Gospel are certainly ones to which we can relate. We all recognize the importance of salt to our everyday lives. We, too, use it for flavoring, for a preservative, to treat slick roads in winter. During a power outage, we are plunged into darkness. What is the first thing we do? We reach for a light source. There is comfort in dispelling the darkness. But do we hoard that light source? No, we must share it. We don’t hide it; we must put it in a location where all in the house can benefit from its light. Jesus speaks to us, as well as the disciples, in His teaching. Our actions and deeds also must be for the honor and glory of God.

“Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your
heavenly Father.”

Father Storey

 

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Encountering Christ

February 2, 2020
 

“Dear brothers and sisters,
 Forty days have passed since we celebrated the joyful feast of the Nativity of the Lord.
Today is the blessed day when Jesus was presented in the Temple by Mary and Joseph.
Outwardly He was fulfilling the Law, but in reality He was coming to meet His believing people.
Prompted by the Holy Spirit, Simeon and Anna came to the Temple.
Enlightened by the same Spirit, they recognized the Lord and confessed Him with exultation.
So let us also, gathered by the Holy Spirit, proceed to the house of God to encounter Christ.
There we shall find Him and recognize Him in the breaking of the bread, until he comes again, revealed in glory.”
 

     The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord was observed by the Church at Jerusalem as early as the first half of the fourth century and possibly earlier. At that time, Christmas was not celebrated as its own feast, but was combined with the Epiphany, the Baptism of the Lord, and the celebration of Christ’s first miracle at the wedding feast at Cana – all events showing Christ to the whole world; all ways in which the world encountered Christ – and celebrated on January 6. Hence the Presentation was originally observed on February 14, 40 days after the birth of Christ. By the end of the fourth century, the Church at Rome began celebrating the Nativity on December 25, so the Feast of the Presentation was moved to February 2.

     A custom developed in the West around the 11^th century, inspired by the Canticle of Simeon – “a light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel” – of blessing candles, lighting them and carrying them in procession on the Feast of the Presentation. This feast then also became known as Candlemas. While the procession and blessing of the candles is not often performed in the United States today, Candlemas is still an important feast in many European countries. The prayer quoted at the beginning of these Pastor’s Notes is one of those that can be used during The Blessing of Candles and the Procession (First Form) at the beginning of Mass when February 2, falls on a Sunday. This happens only once every five or six years, depending on how many leap years occur during that span of time. The brief prayer gives an insight as to why we celebrate this feast.

     Usually we associate prophets with the Old Testament in the Bible, but in today’s Gospel from the New Testament we hear about two prophets: Simeon and Anna, who were associated with the Temple in Jerusalem. Simeon was a very devout man and God had shown favor to him by promising that Simeon would not die before he saw Christ. When Mary and Joseph, acting in their Jewish custom and guided by the Mosaic Law, traveled to Jerusalem with their new born Son to be presented to God in the Temple along with two small birds for the purification process, Anna and Simeon were simultaneously inspired by the Holy Spirit to go to the Temple.

     An emotional Simeon held the Infant Jesus in his arms and praised God saying “Now, Master, you can dismiss your servant.” Simeon began prophesying regarding the Baby he held. At one point he told Mary, “you yourself a sword will pierce.” A warm, caring Anna was the perfect counterpoint to Simeon. She thanked God and told everyone gathered there about the Child. These prophets had an encounter with Christ to be cherished.

     In a few short weeks, we will begin another encounter with Christ as we embark on our Lenten journey. What can we do to make this personal encounter with Christ ever more meaningful, as we are called to be saints, called to holiness? May God bless all of us as we follow once again in His footsteps

Father Storey
 

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A Star to Follow

January 26, 2020

“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.” Every time we make the Sign of the Cross, we recall these roles attributed to each of the Persons of the Blessed Trinity: God the Father, the Creator; God the Son, the Savior; and God the Holy Spirit, the Sanctifier.
 
For a very long time, people have used stars for navigation and guidance. God has given us a star to follow from birth, to salvation, and to sanctification.
 
Christmas may be in the past, but the Gift that we receive – Jesus coming into the world – remains with us. “In the beginning was the Word, ... and the Word became Flesh and dwelt among us.” When we celebrate Christmas, we recall the star that led the shepherds to the manger in Bethlehem, and we remember the star that the Wise Men (they themselves astronomers) followed, not to worship a star, but to worship the Child. That star led them, and with faith, we follow that star and find the greatest treasure ever, Jesus Christ.
 
As we conclude the Christmas Season, we are led by a star to the waters as John baptizes Jesus in the River Jordan, and we see the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and hear a voice saying, “This is my beloved Son.” In our Baptism, Christ invites us to follow the star and gain salvation through Him.
 
There is a third time that Christ advises us to follow a star: we hear, “Come follow me, and I will give you rest.” Then He quickly adds, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places... I will come back again and take you to myself.” (John 14:1-4)
 
We have followed the star to the birth; we have followed the star to salvation. And now we follow the star to sanctification. Life should never be scary. If we are really and truly into our Christian faith, nothing in this world should scare us. What does put fright in us is that we have God visibly in front of us; yet, you and I keep turning away from Him. It’s called sin. Every time we feel that God has drifted from us, guess who it is that really does the drifting.
 
Our solution is to know Him, to love Him, to follow Him. Come back to the Lord; come back to the truth. He is always by our side. “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
 

Father Storey
 

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Deacon's Reflection

Learning by Comparison

January 19, 2020

The four Gospels of the New Testament were written at varying times and each with a different purpose in mind. For example, the evangelist Matthew, whose Gospel is featured in the Church’s Liturgical Year A, wrote in Greek sometime after 70 AD. He was a Jewish Christian who wrote for Christians of a similar background, consequently, his account emphasizes that Jesus was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Matthew was a tax collector who was called by Jesus to become a disciple.

The evangelist John, also known as the Beloved Disciple, wrote around the years 90 – 100 AD. There are many who believe that John’s account was the result of collaboration among several authors. His Gospel was addressed to Gentile Christians and had the purpose of convincing readers that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.        

This year we have a unique opportunity to compare the descriptions by two different evangelists as we read their Gospel accounts of the same event – Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan – on back to back weekends: the Baptism of the Lord and the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. 

In last Sunday’s Gospel (Matt 3:13-17) Matthew presented two of his prominent themes: fulfillment and righteousness. He quotes Jesus as saying, “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” After Jesus emerged from the waters of the Jordan following His baptism, the Spirit of God descended upon Him, and the voice of God was heard, “This is my beloved Son.”

In today’s Gospel (John 1:29-34), John the Baptist announces to the gathered candidates for baptism, the approach of Jesus: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” This metaphor of lamb recalls its essential part in the Passover: the use of its blood on doorposts to preserve the homes of Hebrews; its image as being involved in the suffering of the people, and its symbolism of Jesus being the sacrificial Lamb.  

John the Baptist learned the true nature of Jesus’ divinity when God told him that on whomever the Spirit came down and remained, “He is the One.” John saw the Spirit descend from heaven as a dove and remain upon Jesus; John then testified that Jesus was the “One who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.”
As children of God, we should follow John the Baptist’s example to become witnesses of God. We should strive to live our lives:

· with faith, hope and joy
· with respect and witness to the truth
· with value for all lives
· with generous hearts and willingness to sacrifice for the good of others

Our comparison concludes with complete agreement between John and Matthew: “Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God,” reinforced by Matthew’s account, “A voice from heaven saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” 
 

Deacon Phillip Nguyen 

 

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2020 Perfect Vision          

January 12, 2020    

              In a rare moment of complete silence today, January 1, 2020, Solemnity of Mary the Holy Mother of God, I contemplated what I might write for the next edition of Pastor’s Notes. With the holy days/holidays schedule the Pastor’s Notes for January 5 had to be to the bulletin editor by December 18. That was last year – last decade! Now just barely over halfway through the first day of the year, already we are faced with multiple changes to what was anticipated.

When we are having difficulties with our vision, we go to an ophthalmologist or eye specialist to be tested and fitted with corrective lenses. Multiple measurements are taken and adjustments are made to the sphere, cylinder and axis of the lenses to achieve as close to 20/20 vision as possible.

It is our life long objective to go to heaven and see Almighty God face to face. What do we need to do with our spiritual vision in order to attain this goal? I’d like to offer you a two-part prescription to adjust your spiritual vision. The first is to examine and follow the Sign of the Cross.

May all our actions reflect “In the name of the Father,” God the Father, the Creator, the one who loved us so much that even when we sinned, He sent His only Son to redeem us and show us the way back to the Father.

And of the Son: Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer; the One who came to earth, humbled Himself by taking on our human nature; the One who suffered, died and was buried, then rose from the dead, and ascended into heaven, to show us the way back to the Father; the One who led not only by words, but by love for us in all His actions, thoughts and deeds.

And of the Holy Spirit, the One whom Jesus Christ pleaded with His Father to send so He could stay with us until the end of time. The Sanctifier, the Protector, God’s Life among us, our Inspiration to emulate God in all things.

The second part of our prescription comes from our Blessed Mother, Mary. We adjust our vision each time we consider the beautiful words of the prayer: Hail Mary, full of Grace, the Lord is with thee. Our Blessed Mother held God in her arms; she nurtured Him at her breast, she trained Him in the ways and traditions of His Jewish heritage.

Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. God, the Creator, endowed women with the bodily parts needed to participate in His process of creation. Mary, in particular, was chosen to be the Mother of God. What more perfect vision of God could a human have! Holy Mary, Mother of God!   

Pray for us sinners: We are all sinners, and we must repent and seek God’s forgiveness. We should try to emulate the sinless life led by our Blessed Mother.

Now and at the hour of death: These words take on an ever-more poignant meaning for me. I just learned that a fellow priest, Fr. Tom Dolezal, has passed away today. I feel certain his devotion to our Blessed Mother, and his love of God sustained him in this final phase of his journey here on earth. Please remember Father Tom in your prayers.

Wishing you all the blessings and joys of this holy season. May our adjustments to our spiritual vision in 2020 lead us to 20/20 perfect vision of God. May the Light of the Infant Jesus shine through our lives and manifest itself to all we encounter.

Father Storey    

 

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God Shows His Face to Us  

January 5, 2020           

              In the great Solemnity of Christmas and the ensuing Christmas Season, we hear the good news that God is truly here among us. Through the Person of His beloved Son, He comes close to us. He has become part of our human family and entered the world which He entrusts to humanity. We celebrate in thanksgiving the God Who created us, Who loves us, the God Who is wanting to show His face. He reveals to us that He is truly the Messiah, the one coming to save.

The Evangelist Matthew was writing for a Jewish-Christian audience and weaves their Scriptures, symbols and allusions to their ancestors into his Gospel. He gives their Hebrew texts new meaning, showing fulfillment in unforeseen ways in light of Jesus the Messiah.

We celebrate a fourfold manifestation of Jesus Christ that begins with the announcement to the shepherds of the birth of the Infant Jesus, and continues with the Epiphany wherein God shows Himself to the world through the eyes of the Wise Men. The three Wise Men embarked on a Christian journey, totally on faith – their only guide, a star. They had to have days of doubt, of frustration, sickness. Days of just wanting to turn away from this journey to which they had been called. Especially when the star grew dim and disappeared from their sight. But they persevered, and they were rewarded.

We read in Matthew’s Gospel, “After their audience with the king (Herod) they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother” (Matt. 2:9-11). This overwhelming joy which embraced the Wise Men can be ours!

Like the Wise Men we must persevere in our pursuit of God, not become disheartened. The joy of the Gospel will fill the hearts and lives of all who truly encounter Jesus.

The Baptism of the Lord is the third part of the manifestation. In today’s Gospel, God again shows His face to us. Let’s imagine ourselves on the bank of the River Jordan with other followers who had come to John to be baptized. Out of the crowd gathered there, came a Man from Galilee who also sought to be baptized. John protested vigorously that he, John, should not be the one who was baptizing; rather their roles should be reversed. But Jesus prevailed, and John did as Jesus asked. Then it became evident to all around just who the newly baptized Person actually was.

Luke tells us in his Gospel how God made His presence known: “After…Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased’” (Luke 3:21-22).

The fourth manifestation takes place at the celebration of the marriage at Cana. Jesus, through His miraculous changing of the water into wine, reveals that He truly is God.

Wishing you all the blessings and joys of this holy season. May your families be safe in their travels and your time together be a true blessing. May the Light of the Infant Jesus shine through our lives and manifest itself to all we encounter.

Father Storey    

 

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