As you might imagine, as a Catholic priest, I do not get too many Valentine cards; so, when I do, I remember them. As memorable as all the cards that I receive are, the Valentine card that I will always remember is the card that I received this past Valentine’s Day.

Our parish offers a meal on Monday evenings from November to March. This Winter Welcome Table meal is for those who might not otherwise be able to afford a warm meal. Normally, it is served indoors as a sit-down meal, but recently we have had to serve it as a take-out meal as a result of COVID 19. Over the years those of us who volunteer with this program have gotten to know the “regulars.” Those who come are always grateful for what they receive. They are almost always kind and considerate. On many occasions they will want to take something to someone else who is in need and unable to come. They wish to share as they receive. Last year, one of the men who attended would often bring extra food that he had come across or found on sale so that it could be shared with others. Continue reading →

In the first reading this Sunday from the Book of Deuteronomy, we hear one of the most important passages in the Jewish scriptures. In this passage, Moses tells the people of Israel that if they obey the commandments that God has given them, God will save them, they will be His people and He will bring them to the Promised Land—a land flowing with milk and honey. This promise is followed by Moses speaking to the people of Israel a great profession of faith that the people of Israel are to keep on their lips several times a day. It is known as the great “Shema Yisrael” prayer which states: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command to you today shall be on your heart.” Continue reading →