Today is Chrism Mass day in Cheyenne country. As you know from the previous blog entry, this is one of my favorite Liturgical celebrations of the year, as it is for not only most priests, but many people of the faith as well. It gives a snapshot of the beauty Read more…
As a bishop, I’m often reminded of the element of Apostolic Succession. Indeed, the bishops play a critical role in protecting, nourishing, preaching and handing on the faith. But there is also the critical role played by those to whom the faith is preached. Just as down through the centuries, Read more…
For some reason, the readings this weekend really touched my own experience. Who of us has not experienced moments in our life where we sensed God’s silence, which may have also led us to mutter a word similar to that of the Prophet Isaiah: The Lord has forsaken me; my Read more…
This week the first reading from Mass will walk us once again through the Creation Account of the Book of Genesis. Perhaps this is a good week to pick a day during the week to go to Mass. It is certainly an opportunity to reread this marvelous account of the Read more…
As this American holiday sees people traversing the country, and families gathering in many settings, just wanted to express my prayerful gratitude for all of you. Family and friends are among the choicest of gifts in this life. May you enjoy these relationships in the days ahead. May our gatherings Read more…
Today’s Gospel gives another image of the Kingdom of God; its presence now, and its eventual fulfillment. (Luke 19:11-28) Each of us are given “gifts” (ten gold coins) by a nobleman (God/Jesus), and are told to engage in trade until I return. Clearly, these gifts are given to be actively Read more…
This morning’s reading for Mass comes from the Third Letter of St. John, verses 5-8. The final line of encouragement asks us to support each other so that we may be co-workers in truth. This is a good image of how each of our lives are to interact according to Read more…
Recognizing the delicate balancing act required to address this topic, I wish to pull together some thoughts regarding the purpose of the Church, and thus, its relevance for people of all ages, including today. On a feast day such as today, the Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, it is good Read more…
For nearly sixteen years, my brother and I have owned some forested property in Southern Indiana. This part of the country is known for its beautiful hardwoods, such as White and Red Oak, Maple, Walnut, Cherry, Tulip Poplar, Ash, etc. We have had many years of enjoying a day off Read more…
Veni, Sancte Spiritus! This is the great prayer of the Church as we enter into this celebration of Pentecost. Over the past several days I have prayed a Novena to the Holy Spirit, and have been inspired numerous times in recalling the many ways the Holy Spirit is at work Read more…