May 22, 2011
5th Sunday of Easter
Moms and Dads do you remember when your daughter or son was born? Often words spoken are remembered because of the context -- the time and place when the words are spoken. The words of Jesus in our Gospel today were said at the Last Supper -- the evening before Jesus died. Jesus tells his disciples: "Do not let your hearts be troubled...I am going to the Father to prepare a place for you and then I'll come back to take you to myself that where I am you also may be." Thomas asks: "We do not where you are going. How can we know the way?" Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. Jesus assures the disciples that whatever happens, wherever they go they should not be afraid because he will always be with them. The special place that Jesus is preparing for his friends is himself! Today, girls and boys,on your First Holy Communion, your are in a special place to listen to the words of Jesus and to receive the gift of his very life. What we eat we become. The wonderful mystery of the Sacrament of Holy Communion is the presence of Jesus in the bread and wine and the presence of Jesus in us! Our reception of the Body and Blood of Jesus is at the same time our becoming the Body of Christ. Parents do you remember the promise you made at your child's baptism to share the faith and to bring your children to Eucharist? Thank you for being faithful. If you continue to be faithful not only will your children have a deepening friendship with Jesus but your faith will be strengthened and our believing community will be enriched. Words are important especially when they are said at special occasions. I ask the parents now to stand and renew the commitment they made at their child's baptism. I ask the children to stand and make/renew their promise of faith.
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4th Sunday of Easter
Next:
Ascension of the Lord
