The apostles' fear

OUR LORD is preparing his disciples for their first apostolic mission. The Twelve are about to leave for the neighboring towns to announce the coming of the Kingdom of God. But before they depart, they hear words from Jesus that, at first glance, seem disconcerting. He foretells that sooner or later they will suffer hatred, persecution, and even death.

Remembering the joy of encountering God

WHEN the Israelites camped in front of Mount Sinai, Moses began ascending the mountain to speak with God. The Lord, who had witnessed the doubts and difficulties Israel faced after fleeing Egypt, reaffirmed the covenant He had established with his people: "If you will obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my own possession among all peoples; for all the earth is mine, and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

Esteemed parishioners of Blessed Sacrament and visitors,

Today is the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, historically referred to by its Latin name, Corpus Christi. This solemnity celebrates the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist-Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. As a community named after this sacred sacrament, this day holds special significance for us.

Dear beloved parishioners of Blessed Sacrament and visitors,

After the Easter Season, which culminates in the Feast of Pentecost, the liturgy presents us with three additional Solemnities of the Lord: today is Trinity Sunday, followed by Corpus Christi next Thursday (though it will be celebrated on the following Sunday) and, finally, the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, commemorated the following Friday.

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord, Amen.

FORTY DAYS after Easter, the Church celebrates the Ascension of Jesus into heaven. As the Preface of the Mass says, "the Lord Jesus, the King of glory, conqueror of sin and death, ascended (today) to the highest heavens, as the Angels gazed in wonder. Mediator between God and man, judge of the world and Lord of hosts."

Saint Matthew narrates that, before going to heaven, Jesus ratified the apostolic mission of his disciples: All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you (Mt 28:18-20).

Dear Parishioners of Blessed Sacrament and Visitors,

In the next two weeks, we will be celebrating the Solemnity of Pentecost, a day when the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus' disciples. In preparation for this solemnity, today's gospel presents Jesus speaking to His disciples-and to us -about the Holy Spirit and how we should prepare to receive Him. Jesus says, "And I will ask the Father, and Hе will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of Truth” (John 14:16).