Weekly Pastor's Corner

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

0/24/26-10/25/26

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus offers us a powerful lesson in humility through the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9–14). Two men go to the Temple to pray. One is proud of his own goodness and looks down on others. The other stands at a distance, bows his head, and simply asks, “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”

Jesus tells us that it was the tax collector, not the Pharisee, who went home justified before God. This Gospel invites us to examine our own hearts. How do we approach God in prayer? Do we come before Him convinced that we have everything under control, or do we come with honest hearts, recognizing our need for His mercy?

It is easy to fall into the habit of measuring ourselves against others. We may take comfort in thinking that we are more faithful, more generous, or more deserving than someone else. Yet Jesus reminds us that prayer is not a

competition, and holiness is not a matter of proving that we are better than our neighbors. True prayer begins

when we stand honestly before God and acknowledge that we need His grace.

The tax collector gives us a simple prayer that can become our own: “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” These words are not an expression of despair but of hope. They recognize that God’s mercy is greater than our failures and that His love is always calling us to begin again.

Humility does not mean denying the good that God has accomplished in us. Rather, it means recognizing that every blessing is a gift and that we are all dependent on God’s goodness. When we receive His mercy, we become more patient with others, less quick to judge, and more willing to forgive.

As we gather for the Eucharist this Sunday, let us bring the Lord our joys and our struggles, our gratitude and our

shortcomings. May we resist the temptation to judge another person’s heart and instead ask God to make our

own hearts more compassionate.

May our prayer be sincere, our faith be humble, and our lives reflect the mercy we have received. For the Lord

does not turn away those who come to Him with a contrite and trusting heart.

Thank you so much for your generous support of this year’s Grand Annual Collection. Your financial contributions and commitment to our community allow us to continue our vital ministries, maintain our beautiful parish facilities, and serve those in need. We are deeply grateful for your stewardship and your shared investment in the future of our parish.The Grand Annual is a critical part of our parish budget. If you have not yet had the chance to participate, or if you are able to continue your support, please consider making a gift or setting up a recurring donation.

As our upcoming Christmas Fair approaches, we want to start by saying a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has already dropped off items, baked goods, crafts, or gifts. Your early support means the world to us and helps set the stage for a wonderful event! We are still looking for additional donations to make this year's fair a huge success. If you would like to contribute, we are currently accepting: New items, handmade goods, or raffle-worthy baskets you can contribute.

God bless you and your families for your continued goodness and generosity.

Thanks, and have a great week!

God Bless,

 Fr. Joe