With the celebration of the solemnity of the Pentecost which brings the Paschal Mystery to completion, we are back to the Ordinary Time. A tract from Exodus 90 Bible Study helps us understand Ordinary Time of the church’s liturgical season. It compares it to summer, and may be perceived as a time when we drift from prayer, from discipline, even from purpose. After the graces of Lent and Easter, “Ordinary Time” might feel like a spiritual letdown. Like Summer, this season can also become a fertile space of holy leisure, quiet growth, and kingly service, if we enter into it with Christ.” Ordinary Time, like summer is a gift, but like all gifts, it must be received with intention.
It is not without reason that the Ordinary Time celebrates some high profile solemnities such as the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, the Most Holy Trinity, and Christ the King of the Universe. Our vocation as Missionary Disciples goes on in season and out of season. This summer, may we celebrate the Lord’s Day intentionally. Wherever life takes you for vacation, endeavor to find a Catholic Church, attend Mass with family, and bring back a bulletin as evidence.
The month of June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ. From the revelations of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a Visitation nun in France, this devotion is predicated on:
“Jesus’s profound love for us is demonstrated through His willingness to sacrifice His life for our sake. The love from His heart motivated all His actions — His inner life manifested in His demonstrated virtues and sacrifice. Yet this great love is often received with ingratitude, even by the faithful. The purpose of devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is to focus our hearts on receiving and returning His love with gratitude — with all of our heart, soul, and strength — that He may be glorified.”
As we celebrate Father’s Day this weekend, we also continue to rejoice in the election of Pope Leo XIV—a historic moment for the Church. This is a perfect time to reflect on how fatherhood, both spiritual and familial, shapes the life of the Church. As we reflect on the vocation of fatherhood, let us keep them in our prayers, honor, and thank them for their sacrifices. The lives of the saints teach and remind us that God does not call perfect men, but he guides the hearts of those who follow him with humility.
Happy Father’s Day!!!
Blessings,
Fr. Eugene