Mother Teresa once said, “At the end of life, we will not be judged by how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, taking in the homeless—hungry not only for bread but hungry for love, naked not only for […]
About thirty years ago, when I served as vocation director for our diocese, members of a particular religious order visited Kansas City to recruit future priests. They asked my help to secure a home where some young men could gather to learn about their order. A wonderful couple stepped up to graciously host them. After […]
“I arise today through the strength of heaven, light of the sun, radiance of the moon, splendor of fire, speed of lightning, swiftness of the wind, depth of the sea, stability of the earth, firmness of the rock. I arise today through God’s strength to pilot me…” It is with these words that the prayer […]
This Lent, I will offer some mini retreats for people to reflect upon the most significant issues of life and address topics of death. Utilizing guidance from spiritual directors, life coaches, death doulas, and Catholic traditions, we will spend time discussing how to make the most of what remains of our earthly life, how to […]
“There’s a legend that’s known both here and afar, ‘bout a belief that we have in a magical star; Wise Men were overwhelmed but what would they bring, as the star came to rest over the newborn king!” Local citizens are sometimes surprised to learn that there are places within Kansas City that are not […]
The Rite of Baptism for Christians begins with parents stating the name of their child. This ancient tradition gives identity to the beloved baby human. Proverbs, 22:1, states: “A good name is more desirable than great riches; a family’s high esteem has greater value than gold.” Some have suggested that this identity is only meant […]
Advent is a mystical journey. Mary and Joseph set the tone for us with their journey to Bethlehem. It is a journey of trusting in visions and locutions, a journey of being ostracized and ridiculed, a journey of believing in impossible things, an adventurous journey that changed the course of human history. Their journey weaves […]
I love the Catholic Church and am blessed to have been shaped by it. It has anchored my life and kept me oriented toward the good. It has educated me, inspired me, employed me, ordained me, and helped me through difficult times. Like many other things that I love—my family, my country, my home—I always […]
October begins with the Feast of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus (aka The Little Flower or Therese of Lisieux). The middle day of the month is dedicated to Saint Teresa of Jesus (aka Teresa of Avila). I have the privilege of serving as priest for Saint Therese Little Flower (STLF) Parish in urban KC […]
“This is the beginning of a new day. God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it, or I can use it for good. What I do today is important because I am exchanging a day of my life for it. When tomorrow comes this day will be gone […]
UPON THIS ROCK 