Generous Giver

This past week St. Paul reminded us to be a generous giver, not to lose heart. We do not give out of fear, but rather because of love. We do not give out of obligation, but rather as an act of thanksgiving. Each week we are invited to grow as Christian stewards, asking for God’s grace to share our time, talents, and treasures.

On this 12th Sunday of Ordinary time we continue the theme of Christian stewardship. Would others know that you are Catholic by the way you act and speak? Do you share your Catholic faith with others? Do you defend your Catholic faith when the situation arises or do you remain silent? Do you pray in public before meals? Pray for the strength and courage to be a joyful witness of our Catholic faith when the opportunity presents itself. Let us become the radiant light and bold witness that we are called to be!

Please pray for Fr. Michael El-Nachef who was ordained to the holy priesthood last week for the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall. In thanksgiving for what God is doing in his life, and how our parishes have helped him on his journey, he will preside and preach, as well as offer his first blessing at our 11am Sunday Mass, at St. Finnan’s Basilica. If you or someone you know are discerning a call to the priesthood, please come and talk with me.

Let us also pray for all graduates this week. We graduate from school, but our journey of faith is always progressing. I was joyful to be invited last week for the end of the school year BBQ, and accepted a few challenges to play a few chess games. Our closing school Mass on Thursday reminded us of God’s graces throughout our school year. Thank you to everyone who participated.

Finally, as we begin our summer months, please check out all the small groups offered on different days of the week as an opportunity for us to grow in our faith. Peace.