THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER (A): THE ROAD TO EMMAUS CAN BE A CONVERSION EXPERIENCE, IF WE TRUST SACRED SCRIPTURE AND OUR EUCHARISTIC SACRAMENT by Deacon Jim Merle

Life is filled with disappointments, but none was ever greater to Christian belief than between the death of Jesus and His resurrection. St. Luke’s Gospel of two disciples of Jesus on the road to Emmaus brings to light the frustration that follows the failure of expectations or hopes causing confusion about the future.

SUNDAY OF DIVINE MERCY (A): “BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HAVE NOT SEEN AND HAVE BELIEVED.” by Deacon Jim Merle

Too often, the mantra we hear and sometimes say is Seeing is believing! In other words, we need some physical proof as the Apostle Thomas in St. John’s Gospel today when he said: “Unless I see…I will not believe” in reference to Jesus being alive after His death. What makes these words even harder to accept is that they are spoken by a believer who for three years lived with Jesus hearing His words and watching people being healed from all sorts of incurable ailments. Is Thomas really a doubter, or is he a man of faith because if what he was told is true, why aren’t the other Apostles jumping for joy rather than still hiding behind locked doors?

EASTER SUNDAYOF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD (A): JESUS’ DEATH AND RESURRECTION HAS GIVEN US A SECOND CHANCE DON’T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY! by Deacon Jim Merle

There is no greater celebration for a Christian than Easter Sunday. It is the culmination and the purpose of God’s redemptive plan for man’s salvation. Jesus has died for our sins and is risen from the dead so that, if we have followed Him as we ought, we will have an everlasting life after we pass from our earthly existence.

So, how do we celebrate Easter Sunday? Hint: It is not with Easter Egg Hunts.

PASSION (PALM) SUNDAY OF HOLY WEEK (A): AN AWARENESS OF WHO JESUS IS AND WHY HE DID WHAT HE DID OUT OF LOVE! by Deacon Jim Merle

This week, beginning of Holy Week, end of Lent, celebration of the Triduum and introduction to the Easter Season, brings into perspective everything we ever want and need to know about Jesus and God’s love for us.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT (A): Man Does Not See As Does God! Spiritual Eyesight of our Heart Overshadows the Appearance of Sin! by Deacon Jim Merle

This Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare which means Rejoice) marks the halfway point of this season in which we are to assess if we are living up to our promises of prayer, fasting and giving alms to those in need. It also is a reminder to us that God calls us to change our lives and to embrace a Baptism of discipleship no matter what our state of life. This is especially pertinent to the Elect and Candidates who will receive Sacraments at the Easter Vigil celebration on April 4^th.

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT (A): IMPATIENT AND ANGRY WITH GOD? WE MIGHT WANT TO RETHINK THAT BECAUSE HE CHOOSES TO LOVE US! by Deacon Jim Merle

Each one of us has our own journey of faith. Some have been given opportunities to practice it while others try to ferret out what they think will be a path that helps them stay ahead of what they believe to be life’s pitfalls. Our first reading from the Book of Exodus and St. John’s Gospel today represents these two types.

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT (A): “RISE, AND DO NOT BE AFRAID” by Deacon Jim Merle

In the 81 years I have lived, I have seen fear rob people of their lives in so many different areas.

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT (A): Jesus’ Temptation by Satan Illustrates How We Need to Respond When Faced With Difficulties that Lead Us Astray! by Deacon Jim Merle

Every human since the beginning of time has been tempted, whether in his or her faith or in something not related to a faith. What is important about this rests on everyone’s response to the temptation. Did he or she act upon it for self-gratification, or was it squashed for a better action that would improve the life of not only the one tempted but others who may have been affected.

Seven Ecumenical Councils Introductory Article by Reverend Glenn Baaten

Over the past several months, I have written a number of articles on ecumenism, the inter-church movement that seeks to foster visible unity among Christian communions and denominations. As a former Protestant, this has long been a theological concern of mine and remains deeply important to my faith and ministry.

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (A): God Gives Us Free Will to Choose His Wisdom So Out of His Love We Can Inherit Eternal Life Rather Than a Path to Sin! by Deacon Jim Merle

It is no secret that people seek wisdom. In the realm of earthly areas, it could be as simple as learning how to use a vacuum cleaner or as difficult as rebuilding a car engine. In faith it is using one’s free will to seek a life of holiness by placing one’s confidence and hope in God’s rather than choosing a path to sin.