January 16-17

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In all of our Scriptures today, we see the positive interaction among individuals.  Eli, who was one of Israel’s judges (rulers before the chosen people had a King), directs  Samuel (an eventual prophet) to be attentive to the Lord’s call.  If Samuel did not heed his mentor he may have ignored God’s call and special mission for him.  This reminds us we need the sage wisdom of those who have experienced life and have place their trust in God.

St. Paul in writing to the Corinthians admonishes them NOT to follow the ways of the world.  Corinth was a city filled with corruption and licentiousness of every perversion.  The Christians are reminded that they are members of the Body of Christ, each one as a “living cell” contributing to the health and well-being of the body as a whole.  That is why no sin is private.  A sickness, be it moral or physical in one cell, one person, effects adversely all.  Therefore, we live in conjunction and harmony with all of humanity.

This week we begin the octave of prayer for Christina Unity.  The Body of Christ has suffered immeasurable from division.  The Lord’s desire is that we be on as the Son, the Father, and Spirit are one.  When personal opinions trump basic revealed Truths, rifts have sadly occurred.  The Truth may never be compromised and it is incumbent upon all people of good will to ascent to The Truth that will set thy free and advance the Kingdom of God.

The primary Truth of the sanctity of human life from the moment of conception until natural death is a belief that should and must unite all humanity.  Sadly, there are those who abide in darkness regarding this Truth, and so we pray in earnest that they may come into the Lights.  On Friday, January 22^nd we remember that dreadful decision by the United State Supreme Court, 48 years ago, that legalized abortion.  Our nation has never been the same since.  Nothing can possibly bring peace and concord to our land until hearts and minds are converted the The Truth of protecting the innocent life of the unborn child.

As in today’s Gospel, John the Baptist pointed to Jesus and that all should follow Him and likewise Andrew bringing his brother Peter, to the Lord,  We, too, have our call, like Samuel, and our mission, like John and Andrew to bring others to the Christ, who is The Truth, the Light and the way.

With Blessings,

Father Langan

P.S.  On Friday, January 22, we will offer the Mass:  “Giving Thanks to God for the Gift of Human life” and observe the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children.  Following the 12:00 PM Mass.  Rosary and the Liturgy for Life will be offered.