On this Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, as we remember the 100th anniversary of St. Dominic Church in Denver, Fr. Luke ponders the enduring mission of the church to reach out to the world to bring God's gift of love and inclusion to all. To be church today, we must still go out to bring Christ to the world for the Glory of God.
When God showed up at Abraham's door as three angels posing as travelers, Abraham offered them hospitality in the form of a feast. God, in return, promised that in a year Sarah would have a son. Sarah, being old, secretly laughed at the prospect, but God made it happen. Do we offer hospitality to the poor who show up at our door? Do we trust God's promises to us?
Faith is hard, even after the resurrection. But God is never far away, even when it feels that way. We need to trust that God has prepared us for the task at hand, and is preparing us for what is to come.
Using the beautiful imagery of a blooming flower and the intricate art of origami, Fr. Luke illustrates how seemingly chaotic events in our lives and in the Church are part of God's perfect design.
This homily connects the bold actions of the apostles in the first reading (Acts) and Jesus's own mission ("God so loved the world" from John) to Pope Francis's vision for a Church that reaches beyond itself.
On the Feast Day of St. Catherine of Siena (April 29th), and during the nine days of mourning for Pope Francis, this Word of Hope reflects on two powerful figures who called for unity, mercy, and charity in divided times. Just as St. Catherine was a voice for truth and a bridgebuilder 700 years ago, Pope Francis emphasized these same virtues, reminding us that we are all brothers and sisters.
