28 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for the 13th Sunday of Ordinary time - prison ministry

Lord Jesus - you proclaim the values of God’s kingdom. 

Christ Jesus - you call us to listen to God’s prophets in the world. 

Lord Jesus - you hear the cry of the poor. 

Priest: Loving Father, as we gather here before you at Mass today, we ask that you will hear our prayers and draw us closer to you:

1. We pray for Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and the leaders of our Church. May they show our Church to be a place of welcome for all. We hope all find us to be a welcoming place at the Catholic community of St Michael the Archangel. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for our world leaders. May they work together for the good of humanity. We pray to the Lord. 

3.  As we gather to celebrate the Eucharist today, we pray that we will seek to proclaim God’s word and more fully do God’s will. We pray to the Lord. 

4. We pray our children and for our families, that the Lord will watch over them in their summer activities and summer travels. We pray to the Lord. 

5. We pray for the sick and the afflicted. For all who care for the sick and for our medical professionals. For the men going through the BMU program. For the men in the infirmary. We pray to the Lord. 

6. For our first responders. For the men and women serving in the military. For our veterans. We pray to the Lord. 

7. For our gardeners and our farmers. For good weather for them. For a bountiful harvest. For those who struggle to put food on their table. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: Almighty God, you have called us to be children of light in a world of darkness. We ask that you hear our prayers, which come to you through Jesus, your Son, our Lord forever and ever. Amen.

28 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for the 13th Sunday of Ordinary time

Introduction: We commemorate the 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time. In our readings today, we are told of the new life we received through our baptism in Christ. We are challenged to take our crosses and to follow Jesus in the reality of our lives. May we find hope and encouragement in the daily reality of our journey of faith. 

Lord Jesus - you proclaim the values of God’s kingdom. 

Christ Jesus - you call us to listen to God’s prophets in the world. 

Lord Jesus - you hear the cry of the poor. 

Priest: Loving Father, as we gather here before you at Mass today, we ask that you will hear our prayers and draw us closer to you:

1. We pray for Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and the leaders of our Church. May they show our Church to be a place of welcome for all. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for our world leaders. May they work together for the good of humanity. We pray to the Lord. 

3.  As we gather to celebrate the Eucharist today, we pray that we will seek to proclaim God’s word and more fully do God’s will. We pray to the Lord. 

4. We pray for our faith community. May we have a spirit of welcome and hospitality towards the people around us. We pray to the Lord. 

5. We pray for the sick and the afflicted of our parish. For all who care for the sick and for our medical professionals. We pray to the Lord. 

6. For our first responders. For the men and women serving in the military. For our veterans. We pray to the Lord. 

7. For our gardeners and our farmers. For good weather for them. For a bountiful harvest. For those who struggle to put food on their table. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: Almighty God, you have called us to be children of light in a world of darkness. We ask that you hear our prayers, which come to you through Jesus, your Son, our Lord forever and ever. Amen.

28 June 2026 - Bulletin reflection - 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time

We are now at the end of June as the summer months are passing by. This weekend I am in southern Indiana for a mission appeal. I will be taking some quiet time next week for prayer and contemplation. It is important for us to take time to pray and reflect in the midst of our very busy lives. Even as a priest, with my busy schedule, this can be very challenging for me. We always have to remind ourselves to look for the presence of God in our reality, in the joys and in the challenges. Have a blessed week everyone. Father Lincoln. 

26 June 2026 - Friday of the 12th week in Ordinary Time - 2 Kings 25:1-12

Our reading today from the second book of Kings continues to tell of the tragic fall of the city of Jerusalem to the Babylonias in the year 586 BC, with the destruction of the Temple and the other large buildings in the city. The destruction of Jerusalem and the exile to Babylon is a consequence of the sins and unfaithfulness of the people of Israel. The prophets had warned Israel to give up their idol worship are to return to the practice of justice. The people did not listen and paid the consequence for their infidelity. 

We must be accountable for our actions and take responsibility for the practice of our faith. Their exile from the promised land and the destruction of the Temple forced the people of Israel to see that God is not confined to certain place or a single building. This forced Israel to see that their priorities were too focused on the ways of the world and not the ways of God. 

We can feel like we are in the wilderness sometimes. It may be difficult for us to keep our faith alive in the realities of life that we are facing. We are called to reflect upon how we cooperate with God’s grace in our lives and how our sins and temptations take us away from God. 

26 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Friday of the 11th week in Ordinary time

Lord have mercy - you call us to missionary in spirit. 

Christ have mercy - you proclaim the good news of the Gospel. 

Lord have mercy - you bring us God’s peace. 

Priest: We come before our loving Father as we lift our prayers to heaven. 

1. For Leo XIV, our pope, and Joseph Kopacz, our bishop. For all who lead us in faith and love. 

2. May the words and actions of our daily lives help us to bear witness to the joy of the Gospel. 

3. For all civic and governmental leaders. May our worldwide leaders work for the basic needs of people.

4. May we welcome the lost and the marginalized. 

5. For the anguished and the sorrowful. May their hope be in Christ’s healing love. 

6. For our beloved dead. May God welcome home our loved ones who have taken their last breath here on earth. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

Priest: Gracious and merciful Father, listen to our needs as we reach out to you for purpose, hope, and direction. 

25 June 2026 - Thursday of the 12th week - 2 Kings 24:8-17

Throughout the first and second books of Kings, we hear about the different kings who reigned in Israel, how they were often unfaithful to God and how they led the people astray from the path of faith. God gave them chance after chance, asking them to repent and to mend their ways, but the kings and the people often turned back to their evil ways and away from the Lord. Today, we hear about the Babylonians invading Israel, securing victory, and sending King Jehoiachin, the army, skilled craftsmen, and the king’s officers and functionaries into exile in Babylon, leaving behind the poor in Israel. The exile is a very difficult and painful event in Israel’s history, something that they never forget. The return to Jerusalem after many years in exile and the restoration of the Temple and the rituals there and the restoration of their relationship with God are all a big part of the history of Israel, part of which motivated the establishment of the country Israel in the Holy Land after WWII. This is a part of the history of the people of Israel and part of our faith history as well. It is important for us to put our trust in God and to follow him on our journey of faith, to not put our full trust and hope in the things of this world, which many of the kings of Israel did. May we learn from history. 

25 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Thursday of the 12th week in Ordinary time

Lord have mercy - you send us God’s Holy Spirit. 

Christ have mercy - you forgive the sins of the contrite. 

Lord have mercy - you are the beloved son of the Father.

Priest: Let us now turn to our loving God as we offer our prayers today: 

1. For Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and all our Church leaders. May they teach us to acknowledge Christ in the reality of our lives. 

2. For the end of war, violence, and hatred. May we work toward the peace of God’s kingdom. 

3. For all lawyers, judges, and those who work in the judicial system. May they work for the justice of God’s kingdom.

4. For our children, youth, families, and college students. May the Lord accompany them during their travels and their summer break. 

5. For all who grieve and mourn. May they be comforted. 

6. For family members who have died. May all the dead now rest in the assurance of God’s peace. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

Priest: God of Providence, may we receive your care and your loving plan for our lives. We ask this through Christ, our Lord forever and ever. Amen. 

24 June 2026 - homily for the Solemnity of the Nativity of John the Baptist — Wednesday - Luke 1:57-66, 80

John the Baptist died before Jesus’ death and resurrection, but even so, before those events, John was able to be a strong Gospel witness for Jesus, knowing that Jesus was the Messiah, the one for whom he paved the way. Even while he was in prison, John was occupied with the question of Jesus being the promised one, sending his disciples to Jesus to ask him that very question. In the Gospel of John, Jesus asserts that John is greatest in the line of prophets in the Jewish faith, a very strong claim.  

Today’s solemnity celebrates the birth of John the Baptist to his parents Zechariah and Elizabeth. The date of his birth falls around the day in our calendar of the summer solstice, the time of the greatest amount of daylight in the northern hemisphere, which took place on Sunday, June 21 this year. The summer solstice was a time of great festivals of many pagan religions, including the Romans. With creation on earth being dependent on light for all dimensions of life, the pagans wanted to appease the gods who they saw as controlling the sun. The birth of Jesus comes around the time of the winter solstice, when daylight starts increasing in the northern hemisphere of the world. Through our celebrations of the births of Jesus and John the Baptist, we celebrate Jesus as the light of the world. In his life and ministry, John testified to the light, even when he was in the womb of his mother Elizabeth, leaping for joy when he and his mother were in the presence of Mary, with Jesus in her womb. From the moment of he was conceived, John was brave in his testimony, confronting many of the social and political attitudes of his time. From the beginning of John’s existence, he was called by God to a specific prophetic task. From the moment of our own baptism, we to are called to give testimony to the faith and to be a part of the Father’s plan. We can help to build up God’s kingdom here on earth and to be a part of Christ’s mission and ministry. We unite our prayers with the prayers of John the Baptist today as we celebrate his birth.  

24 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Wednesday of the 12th week in Ordinary time

Lord Jesus - You bring us God’s grace and God’s peace. 

Christ Jesus - You call us to a life of holiness. 

Lord Jesus -  You are the resurrection.

Priest: Let us turn to God in love and offer in our prayers our needs and the needs of the world. 

1. For Leo XIV, our pope, Joseph Kopacz, our bishop, and all who lead

us in faith. May they imitate the heart of Jesus Christ and offer compassion to all who are burdened by life. 

2. For all people who face war, hatred, and hopelessness. May people beaten they find in Christ the love and compassion that they need. 

3. For all those affected by natural disasters, floods, storms, and droughts. For recovery and for the help that they need. 

4. For all people who face affliction, disease, and undiagnosed illness. May the they know the healing heart of Christ. May hope be born in our human vulnerability. 

5. For those who have entered eternal life know eternal union with God. 

6. For all people bowed down by burdens and broken relationships. May they feel God’s love and wisdom in their lives. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

Priest: God of eternal peace, comfort those lost in sin and heartache. We ask our prayers through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. Amen.

23 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Tuesday of the 12th week in Ordinary Time

Lord have mercy - you embody God’s love and mercy. 

Christ have mercy - you forgive the sins of the contrite. 

Lord have mercy - you are seated at the right hand of the Father. 

Priest: Let us now bring our needs before the God, who hears our prayers: 

1. That the Church and our Church leaders may witness God’s mercy, justice, and peace to the world. 

2. That the actions of the leaders of government and society be rooted in patience and faithfulness. 

3. That those who struggle to see God’s goodness due to grief or suffering: may be surrounded by the comfort of a faithful community.

4. May anger and hardness of heart be converted to compassion, humility, and joy. 

5. For those who have died, especially our loved ones and family members.  May they rejoice in the eternal communion of God. 

6. For a greater sense of stewardship of the gifts God has bestowed upon us and care of God’s creation. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

Priest: Holy God, Source of all love and unity, hear these prayers we bring before you. Through belief in your triune mystery, grant us healing, peace, and the grace to live as your people. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

23 June 2026 - homily for Tuesday of the 12th week in Ordinary Time - 2 Kings 19:9b-11, 14-21, 31-35a, 36

St Joseph Cafasso was born in the countryside in the town of Castelnuovo d’Asti in 1811. In 1834 he was ordained to the priesthood in Turin. He taught at the ecclesiastical college in Turin, which was dedicated to forming diocesan priests. Among his students was another future saint, John Bosco, who had been born in the same town as Joseph, and whom he had known from childhood.
While teaching at the major seminary, St Joseph was also known for guiding his flock with kindness and serenity. His fellow citizens had such high regard for him that they suggested he take a place in the legislative assembly. He refused, however, saying, “In the day of judgment, the Lord will ask me if I was a good priest, not a good deputy.” He was known as a model of priestly life. He was particularly drawn to the pastoral care of inmates, especially those condemned to death. He stood by their side as they were lead to the execution, bringing them to repentance by showing them God’s mercy and compassion. He died in Turin on June 23, 1860, at the age of 49. His relics can be found in the Sanctuary of the Consolata in Turin.

In our faith and in our trust of God, we are to  find refuge in him. Whenever we are threatened by external forces against our faith, we should not give way to fear and and we should not give way to falsehood. Rather than allowing the threatening message of the Assyrian King to weaken his spirit, King Hezekiah  turned immediately to the Lord for security and his heart’s desire was granted. When we prefer the wide gate to the narrow gate, we have not learned to trust in God as King Hezekiah did. Entering through the narrow gate could mean for us to live in loving and holy obedience unto God for the good of others even as we remain steadfast in the face of the temptations and trials of life.

21 June 2026 - prayers for the faithful for the 12th week in Ordinary time - prison ministry

Lord Jesus - you tell us not to be afraid. 

Christ Jesus - you proclaim God’s love to the world. 

Lord Jesus - you call us to the joys of God’s kingdom. 

Priest: Loving Father, as we gather before you today at Mass here at CMCF, in confidence we pray to you with faithful and joyful hearts: 

1. We pray for Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and all the bishops and priests of the Church. May they lead their people to give public witness and public proclamation of the Gospel. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for our world leaders. May they have the courage to use the authority given to them for the good of their people, especially the less fortunate. We pray to the Lord. 

3. We pray for those people suffering all over the world. May the light of hope shine for them in the darkness. We pray for peace throughout the world, especially the Middle East and Ukraine. We pray to the Lord. 

4. We pray for our local faith community here at CMCF and for Christians everywhere. May we be true disciples of Christ and not be afraid to put our trust in God’s providence. We pray to the Lord. 

5. We pray for the sick and the afflicted here at CMCF and in our families. We pray for those who struggle with addictions and mental health issues. We pray for all who have asked for our prayers. We pray to the Lord. 
6. We pray for our deceased loved ones and family members and all who have died recently. May they be welcomed by God into the halls of the heavenly kingdom. We pray to the Lord. 

7. For safe travels for all our family members who are traveling in these summer months. We pray for our children, for their summer trips and activities. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For all the guards, wardens, and employees here at CMCF and in MDOC. We pray to the Lord. 

9. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: Gracious God, filled with the knowledge that you listen to our prayer, we open our hearts to you in Jesus’ name, for he is our Lord forever and ever. AMEN. 

21 June 2026 - homily for 12th Sunday of Ordinary Time CYCLE A - Matthew 10:26-33

In our Gospel today, Jesus tells us three times to not be afraid. We are told to not be afraid and not to fear more than 300 times throughout Sacred Scripture. Fear can be a powerful emotion that we feel in life at different times. I think of how in our Gospel reading in Pentecost the disciples were huddled in fear in a locked room when Jesus suddenly appeared to them and breathed the peace of the Holy Spirit upon them. Sometime our fears can be legitimate, like how those disciples had just seen Jesus put to death and they legitimately feared for their lives. In fact, almost all of that group of apostles would be put to death for their faith as martyrs. However, sometimes we can create fear in our minds and be crippled and seized by that fear, even when that fear is not founded. 

Jesus gives his disciples the necessary courage in the face of persecution or attacks. Jesus assures us that we have the continuing love of the Father to accompany us. Jeremiah today gives us a great example of confidence in the Lord in the face of the violence and opposition that confronts him at every side: “The Lord is with me, like a mighty champion; my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph.” Jesus tells us that if acknowledge him and follow him, he will be forever at our side and acknowledge us to his Father. 

Jesus advises us that we should fear only the One who can destroy both body and soul. I think fear of God in this sense can be misconstrued. We are to refer God and respect above all earthy powers and human opinions. But fear of God in this sense is not a terror of punishment we could receive from God. But rather it is to approach God in awe, respect, and wonder. To acknowledge him as our creator who hold our existence in his hands. 

I was recently reading a book by the Jesuit priest John Croiset, who served as spiritual adviser to St Margaret Mary in the 17th century, to whom the visions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus appeared. In writing about obstacles to devotion to the Sacred Heart, he spoke about the danger of a tepid lukewarm faith. A lukewarm faith is neither passionate nor completely indifferent, a complacency that can take over our lives of faith. A lukewarm faith puts us in a perilous condition, replacing the fervor and boldness that should characterize our relationship with God. When we are lukewarm, our lives of faith are rendered ineffective and we become vulnerable to temptation and to sin. We lose sight of God’s truth in the world and of the purpose he has for us in life. Being lukewarm is a big danger and impediment on our journey of faith, worse than being cold. 

Jesus tells us that we are proclaim from the light of the rooftops that which he teaches us in the dark. This goes hand-in-hand to what St Francis of Assisi taught: to proclaim the Gospel always in our lives, and when necessary, to use words. Our actions and our very lives should epitomize our proclamation of the Gospel message. Pope Francis always said that we should go forth into the world with our faith with a message that is welcoming and inviting, to never be afraid to walk the streets, to enter the different corners of society, to reach the limits of our city, and to touch the wounds of the people. We are to continuously be witnesses of the faith before others, even in the midst of challenges and adversity. 

I would like to end with a prayers that address any fears we might have on our journey of faith: “Merciful Jesus, When fear rises within me, let your words echo within me each day: “Do not let your heart be troubled.” Let this truth become my strength, my refuge, my peace, and my living hope. And when my journey is complete, bring me to the place you have prepared for me, where there is no fear, no sorrow, no trouble, only the everlasting peace of your presence. For you are my peace, my hope, and my eternal rest. Jesus, I place all my trust in you.  All my hope is in your mercy. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. AMEN.” 

Prayers of the faithful for the 12th Sunday in Ordinary time cycle A - 21 June 2026

Introduction: As we commemorate the 12th Sunday in Ordinary, we hear Jesus tell his apostles in today’s to not be afraid and the proclaim his Gospel message with great enthusiasm. We are all called to live out our life of disciples in boldness and joy. We are not to fear the things of this world, to place our trust in God’s eternal kingdom. 

Lord Jesus - you call us not to be afraid. 

Christ Jesus - you proclaim God’s love to the world. 

Lord Jesus - you call us to the joys of God’s kingdom. 

Priest: Loving Father, as we gather before you today, in confidence we prayers to you with faithful and joyful hearts: 

1. We pray for Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and all the bishops and priests of the Church. May they lead their people to give public witness and public proclamation of the Gospel. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for our world leaders. May they have the courage to use the authority given to them for the good of their people, especially the less fortunate. We pray to the Lord. 

3. We pray for those people suffering all over the world. May the light of hope begin to shine for them in the darkness. We pray for peace throughout the world, especially the Middle East and Ukraine. We pray to the Lord. 

4. We pray for our local faith community and for Christians everywhere. May we be true disciples of Christ and not be afraid to put our trust in God’s providence. We pray to the Lord. 

5. We pray for the sick and the afflicted of our parish. We pray for those who are struggling with addictions and mental health issues. We pray for all who have asked for our prayers. We pray to the Lord. 
6. We pray for our deceased loved ones and family members and all who have died recently. May they be welcomed by God into the halls of the heavenly kingdom. We pray to the Lord. 

7. For safe travels for those who are traveling in these summer months. We pray for our children, youth, and college students, for their summer trips and activities. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: Gracious God, filled with the knowledge that you listen to our prayer, we open our hearts to you in Jesus’ name, for he is our Lord forever and ever. AMEN. 

Bulletin Reflection for the 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time - 21 June 2026

The last three weekends, we celebrated the Most Holy Trinity, the Body and Blood of Christ, and the Sacred Heart of Jesus at our weekend Masses. As the US Bishops consecrated our country to the Sacred Heart, I hope that we continue to remember the devotions to the Sacred Heart in the ways we live out our faith each day. We pray for safety for all of us in our summer travels and summer activities, especially for our children, youth, and college students. I pray that you all have a blessed week - Father Lincoln. 

19 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Friday of the 11th week in Ordinary time

Lord have mercy - you send us God’s Holy Spirit. 

Christ have mercy - you forgive the sins of the contrite. 

Lord have mercy - you are the beloved son of the Father. 

Priest: Let us unite our voices in prayer for our needs, the needs of the Church, and the needs of the world.

1. That our Church leaders be filled with the Holy Spirit and speak the Gospel in ways that all can understand. 

2. That our world leaders seek to build bridges where there is division and conflict. May the work together tobuild societies marked by peace and justice. 

3. That those who feel voiceless or unseen feel known and loved in their faith. 

4. That we who serve in ministry learn to speak the languages of the heart through compassion, listening, and service. 

5. That our deceased loved ones and family members be drawn into the eternal communion of the Father, Son, and Spirit. 

6. For strength and courage for all medical professionals and care givers. 

7. For the prayers we hold in our hearts today. 

Priest: O God, you breathe new life into the world through your Spirit. Hear our prayers and set our hearts ablaze with love for you and for neighbor. We ask this through Christ our Lord forever and ever. AMEN. 

18 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Thursday of the 11th week in Ordinary time

Lord have mercy - you call us to missionary in spirit. 

Christ have mercy - you proclaim the good news of the Gospel. 

Lord have mercy - you bring us God’s peace.

Priest: As we gather in God's sacred stillness, let us lift up our hearts in petition.

1. That we in the Church may find strength in prayer and unity in the Spirit. 

2. That those in positions of public trust and authority govern with humility and serve with compassion, especially in places of conflict.

3. For peace in nations and communities experiencing war, terrorism, and violence. 

4. That those in times of transition and waiting may find peace in God’s timing and hope in his promises. 

5. That our community of faith may embrace both contemplation and action in our Christian witness. 

6. For healing and wholeness for the sick, the afflicted, and the suffering. 

7. That our deceased loved ones may rest in the presence of the God who is merciful and faithful. 

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

Priest: Faithful God, as we receive the outpouring of your Spirit, hear our prayers and prepare our hearts to receive your grace. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

19 June 2026 - homily for Friday of the 11th week in Ordinary Time - 11:1-4, 9-18, 20

Juliana Falconieri was born into a noble family in the city of Florence in the year 1270. Her faith was profoundly impacted by her uncle, Alexis Falconieri, one of the Seven Founders of the Servite Order. Her uncle taught her humility, charity, and a profound reverence for the Eucharist. Choosing not to follow the paths of marriage and wealth, Juliana dedicated her life to God and to serving others. Her spiritual journey led her to establish the Servite Third Order of the Servants of Mary. This community focused on caring for the marginalized while maintaining a deep spiritual life centered around the Eucharist. Juliana's devotion to the Eucharist was most profoundly demonstrated at the end of her life in the year 1341. Suffering from a severe illness that prevented her from swallowing, she was unable to receive the Eucharist in the traditional manner. In her final act of devotion, she requested that the Holy Host be placed on her chest. Miraculously, the Host disappeared, and Juliana passed away, her soul united with Jesus. St Juliana Falconieri is a patron saint of bodily ills and of the sick.         

In our first reading from the 2nd book of Kings, the Queen mother kills all but one of her grandchildren who is hidden in an attempt to gain control of the throne after the death of her son. That child goes into hiding in the Temple. With the help of the priest and the guards, justice is brought to Athaliah, the Queen mother, who is put to death, and the temple of the pagan idol Baal is destroyed. We see so much violence and destruction take place in our cities and our communities, and we wonder why such things are tolerated, why we do not take a hard stand for justice and peace and the values of our faith. Some years ago, in a response to a mass shooting that occurred, Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago stated that: “In response to hatred, we are called to sow love. In response to violence, peace. And, in response to intolerance, tolerance.”  Indeed, we need to find ways to implement our Gospel values into solutions that will address the violence and terrorism that we hear about each day. We may want tolerance and kindness ourselves when we are hurting or when we are reaching out for help, but how do we show tolerance and kindness to others in those messy, complicated realities that we often face in life?  There are no easy answers to this complicated reality, to be sure. But we are called to work for the values of our faith and to live out those values. 

18 June 2026 - homily for Thursday of the 11th week in Ordinary Time - St Gregory Barbarigo - Sirach 48:1-14

St Gregory Barbarigo was an Italian cardinal and bishop in the 17th century recognized for his commitment to Church reform, Catholic education, and reaching out to the poor. Influenced by the Council of Trent, he implemented the reforms advocated by the Council as the Bishop of Bergamo and later as the Bishop of Padua. He established seminaries and libraries, promoted education, and advocated for clerical discipline and clergy renewal. Known for his humility and pastoral care, he was canonized in 1960 by Pope John XXIII. He is the patron saint of the Dioceses of Bergamo and Padua in Italy. 

We have been hearing readings from the first and second book of Kings these past two weeks at daily Mass. The prophet Elijah has been prominent in those readings. Elijah is so important to the Jewish people that after the grace is said at the seder meal at Passover, a cup of wine is poured for Elijah, the door is opened to him, and his presence is recognized with a special seat reserved for him at the table. Elijah is not only considered the great prophet by the Jewish people, but he is also honored by Christians and Muslims for the way he stood up to false prophets and wicked kings. Tuesday, in the reading from the 2nd book of Kings, Elijah was taken up to heaven by a whirlwind at the end of his life, with Elisha chosen to be his successor as prophet to the people of Israel.  Elisha continued in his faithful service as prophet for many years. Today’s reading from Sirach is a hymn of praise to God for both Elijah and Elisha, for the ways they served the Lord. We hear about the crimes and violence that is often rampant in many of our communities. We are called to respect each other’s differences as a opposed to being judgmental and lashing out in anger. We are called in faith to build up the kingdom of God, not to tear it down. We all know that it is easier to tear something down, and much harder to build something up. 

17 June 2026 - homily for Wednesday of the 11th week in Ordinary Time - 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14

St Albert Chmielowski was born in 1845 in a small village near Krakow, Poland in a wealthy family. Both his parents died by the time he was ten years old. He was then raised by his aunt.  During the 1865 revolt in Poland against Czar Alexander III of Russia, Albert was wounded, leading to the amputation of his leg. He had a great talent for painting, which led to art studies in Warsaw, Munich, and Paris. He returned to Krakow and became a Secular Franciscan. In 1888, he founded the Brothers of the Third Order of Saint Francis, Servants to the Poor. Albert and his fellow Franciscans worked with the homeless. They lived completely on alms that people would donate to them. A community of sisters was established later. He died in 1916 from stomach cancer.  Pope John Paul II beatified Albert in 1983, canonizing him six years later. He is the patron saint of painters and members of the secular Franciscan. 

We have been hearing about Elijah in our first readings this week. Today, we hear about the moment before Elijah is taken up to heaven by the Lord, so the mantle of prophet needs to be passed to another. Elisha has been chosen to be the next great prophet of Ancient Israel. Elijah offers to do whatever Elisha wants before he is taken up by the Lord. Elisha’s response is remarkable: to receive a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. Elisha desires to serve the Lord as a prophet just as Elijah did, with integrity and respect. He wants to be legitimately recognized as such and to have Elijah’s spirit follow him. God blesses Elisha in this way, as he is able to part the Jordan River just as Moses and Elijah were able to do.  

The tenacious faith of Elijah and Elisha calls out to us today. They strongly heard their call to serve God as his special prophets, even as they recognized the frustration, danger, and challenges that accompany such a call. We also heard the story of St Albert Chmielowski, who was called to live as a secular Franciscan and to serve the poor. No matter what our specific vocational calling me be, we are called to be Christ’s disciples, to fervor and tenacity as we live out our faith and live out our vocation. May we open our hearts to the ways we can serve the Lord with humility and selflessness.

17 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Wednesday of the 11th week in Ordinary time

Lord have mercy - you are the son of God and son of Mary. 

Christ have mercy - you bring us God’s love. 

Lord have mercy - you are seated at the right hand of the Father. 

Priest: My brothers and sisters, as we put our trust in the power of our Lord Jesus, let us place our needs before our loving Father.

1. That we in the Church may boldly proclaim the Gospel to the world in word and in witness.  

2. That our governmental leaders be guided by justice and serve with a sense of responsibility toward the global community. 

3. For those who feel directionless or who are struggling in life, that they may they be consoled by the promise of Christ’s abiding presence. 

4. That we in our communities of Holy Savior and Immaculate Conception may receive the Eucharist as a commission and carry Christ into the world with faith and purpose. 

5. That the faithful departed may be lifted into the fullness of life with the risen Lord. 

6. That our children and families may enjoy the summer months. Safety for all who are traveling. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. 

Priest: God of glory, we ask that your hear our prayers and strengthen us to be witnesses to your love. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. Amen.

New 16 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Tuesday of the 11th week in Ordinary time

Lord have mercy - you embody God’s love and mercy. 

Christ have mercy - you forgive the sins of the contrite. 

Lord have mercy - you are seated at the right hand of the Father.

Priest: Knowing that Christ brings us salvation and lead us to eternal life, let us now lift up our prayers to God with joyful hearts: 

1. That we in the universal church may be a community of joy that draws others to the love of Christ.

2. That the leaders of nations: May they work for peace across divisions and promote the dignity of all people. We pray to the Lord. 

3. That those who feel excluded from the church or excluded from society may encounter joy and welcome in communities of faith. 

4. May our ministries and gatherings overflow with the love of our faith. 

5. That our beloved dead may rejoice forever in the risen life of Christ.

6. For the sick and the afflicted. For those struggling with mental health issues, addictions, anxiety, and depression. For healing and wholeness. 

Priest: Gracious God, you fill your people with the joy of the Gospel. Hear our prayers and grant us the grace to share that joy with a world in need. We ask this through Christ, our Lord forever and ever. Amen. 

16 June 2026 - homily for Tuesday of the 11th week in Ordinary Time - 1 Kings 21-29

St John Regis was sent as a Jesuit priest to the mountainous region of southeastern France in the early 17th century, an area where there was little law and order and where the Church and the Catholic faith were no longer very strong. His Jesuit superiors adapt of model of parish missions to reenergize the faithful there, modeled after the ministry of St Vincent de Paul and St John Eudes. Arriving in 1631 right after his ordination, he was a missionary in this area of France until his death 10 years later. He used any resources he could obtain to help the poor and the abandoned of this region. In a world today where we are looking for successful and creative models of evangelization, St John Regis is a great example of faith for us. 

God sends the prophet Elijah to King Ahab, delivering a message of doom, since Ahab led the people away from the path of faith. In response, Ahab repents.  The Lord saw the humility of Ahab’s repentance, not bringing wrath upon his house during his lifetime, but reserves that wrath for the reign of his son. God is always happy when we repent. We are always offered opportunities to repent and to change our ways. May we look at our own lives and see the ways God wants us to change. 

Prayers of the faithful for the 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time CYCLE A - 14 June 2026

We are not using these prayers this weekend, as our Diocese is celebrating the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart instead. I am still Going to post these prayers on my blog. 

Lord Jesus - you are our Good Shepherd. 

Christ Jesus - you watch over your flock. 

Lord Jesus - you call laborers to work for God’s Kingdom. 

Priest: With humility and trust, we present our prayers to our heavenly Father, confident that God will hear our prayer petitions today: 

1. We pray for Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and all our Church leaders. May they faithfully exercise their God-given authority to shepherd the People of God into the fullness of truth. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for our local and national governmental leaders. May they have the wisdom and courage to pursue the common good and give due respect to the Church’s religious freedom as it exercises its mission in the world. We pray to the Lord. 

3. We pray for our parish and all the parishes of the Diocese of Jackson. May each one of us listen to where the Lord of the vineyard is wanting us to be witnesses to the Gospel. We pray to the Lord. 

4. We pray for the sick and the afflicted of our parish. We pray for all who have asked for our prayers. We pray to the Lord. 
5. We pray for all the faithful departed and for those who have died recently. May they be welcomed by God to the joys of their heavenly home. We pray to the Lord. 

6. We pray that the Lord of the harvest may send forth many laborers, including priests, deacons, consecrated religious, and committed lay persons, to gather many believers to his Church. We pray to the Lord.

7. We pray that the gift of life, which we have received, may be given as a gift by working to save those in danger of abortion, euthanasia, or other forms of violence. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: Gracious God, you call us to witness to your Son who is the way, the truth and the life. We entrust all the intentions of our hearts to you in Jesus’ name, for he is our Lord forever and ever. Amen.

14 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for the solemnity of the sacred heart - prison ministry

Lord Jesus - you love us with your sacred heart. 

Christ Jesus - you bring us the love your faith. 

Lord Jesus - you proclaim the fullness of the kingdom of God. 

Priest: As we celebrate the Sacred Heart of Jesus today, we present our prayers to our heavenly Father with faith and hope: 

1. We pray that we in the Church may work to form our hearts according to the sacred heart of Christ. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for Pope Leo XIV,  Bishop Joseph Kopacz, and all Church leaders. That they may serve God's people with joy and that they may provide loving care and support to the people. We pray to the Lord. 

3. We pray for our Diocese, for our parishes, and for our Catholic community of St Michael the Archangel here at CMCF. That we may look to the past with gratitude, discern God's will in our present, and work toward the future. We pray to the Lord. 

4. We pray for those who have been abandoned and rejected. That they may experience their dignity in the love of Christ. We pray to the Lord. 

5. We pray for our country. That we may honor the poor and the vulnerable and serve the common good. We pray to the Lord. 

6. We pray for the sick, the suffering, and the dying. That they may find healing and strength in our Lord Jesus Christ.  We pray to the Lord. 

7.  We pray for all those who have died, especially for our family members and loved ones and members of our Christian community. That they may rest secure in the Sacred Heart of Christ. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For peace throughout the world, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East. For peace here at CMCF. We pray to the Lord. 

9. For the prayers we offer in the silence of our hearts today. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: We present these prayers through your Son Jesus Christ as we honor his sacred heart today.  He is our Lord forever and ever.  AMEN. 

Bulletin Reflection - Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus - 14 June 2026

Normally, we would be celebrating the 11th Sunday of Ordinary Time this weekend, but because of the consecration of our country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus by the US Bishops, we are celebrating the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart this weekend at our liturgical celebrations. The Sacred Heart of the Jesus is one of the most popular and most ancient devotions of our Catholic faith. Jesus love and mercy reaches out to us in the reality of life. His heart speaks to our hearts. This weekend’s celebration is a wonderful opportunity for us to reflect on this wonderful devotion of our faith. Blessings to all of you this week. Father Lincoln. 

14 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for the solemnity of the sacred heart

Introduction: With the Bishops of the United States consecrating our country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus this past week in honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Bishop Kopacz has asked us to celebrate the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus this weekend at our liturgies. Today, we united our prayers and our hearts with the Sacred Heart of Jesus in our joyful liturgical celebration.  

Lord Jesus - you love us with your sacred heart. 

Christ Jesus - you bring us the love of our faith. 

Lord Jesus - you proclaim the fullness of the kingdom of God. 

Priest: As we celebrate the Sacred Heart of Jesus today, we present our prayers to our heavenly Father with faith and hope: 

1. We pray that we in the Church may work to form our hearts according to the sacred heart of Christ. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for Pope Leo XIV,  Bishop Joseph Kopacz, and all our clergy and lay leaders. That they may serve God's people with joy and that they may provide loving care and support to the people. We pray to the Lord. 

3. We pray for our Diocese and our parishes of Holy Savior and Immaculate Conception. That we may look to the past with gratitude, discern God's will in our present, and work toward the future. We pray to the Lord. 

4. We pray for those who have been abandoned and rejected. That they may experience their dignity in the love of Christ. We pray to the Lord. 

5. We pray for our country. That we may honor the poor and the vulnerable and serve the common good. We pray to the Lord. 

6. We pray for the sick, the suffering, and the dying. That they may find healing and strength in our Lord Jesus Christ.  We pray to the Lord. 

7.  We pray for all those who have died, especially for our family members and loved ones and members of our Christian community. That they may rest secure in the Sacred Heart of Christ. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For peace throughout the world, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For the prayers we offer in the silence of our hearts today. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: We present these prayers through your Son Jesus Christ as we honor his sacred heart today.  He is our Lord forever and ever.  AMEN. 

14 June 2026 - homily for the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus - Matthew 5:17-19

The solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is normally celebrated on the Friday after our Sunday celebration of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, which would have been Friday of this last week, June 12. However, this past Thursday, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops at their meeting in Orlando consecrated the United States to Jesus’ Sacred Heart. Parishes around the country are encouraged to join the bishops in celebrating the consecration of our nation to the Sacred Heart, so Bishop Kopacz has declared that in our Diocese, we are to celebrate the Sacred Heart this weekend with the Catholic faithful. This consecration of our country follows in the tradition of Pope Leo XIII consecrating the entire human race to the Sacred Heart in 1899. Now in the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV, we consecrate our country to Jesus’ Sacred Heart. 

Most of you know that I have a deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which has grown in the time I have been a priest. I brought the first Friday devotion to the Sacred Heart to the parishes in Pearl and Clinton where I have served as pastor. I absolutely love that devotion and love celebrating that Mass in our parish in Clinton each month. When I took my profession of vows as a secular Carmelite a couple of years ago, I was asked to choose a Carmelite name for myself, and with the help of the Carmelite sisters, I chose Father Lincoln of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, a name that I truly love and appreciate.  

Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus has developed throughout the history of the Church. Visitation sister St Margaret Mary Alacoque had visions of the pierced and bleeding heart of Jesus with flames and a crown of thorns starting in 1673 while she was praying before the blessed sacrament. These apparitions focused on God’s love and mercy. During one of these visions in 1675, Jesus asked that feast on the Friday after the solemnity of the most holy body and blood of Christ be established, which leads to our celebration today. St Margaret Mary’s visions also lead to the first Friday devotion that we celebrate at our parish each month. 

English theologian Cardinal John Henry Newman, who was named a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo XIV, took his motto from the Sacred Heart of Jesus: cor ad cor loquitur - heart speaks to heart. Newman believed that beyond any thoughts or ideas, Jesus saves us by speaking to our hearts from his own heart. Newman most profoundly encountered the living heart of Jesus in the eucharist. He saw the eucharist as having the capability of setting us free, giving meaning to each moment of life and bestowing God’s peace upon us. 

Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is oriented toward the Eucharist. We receive the heart of Jesus when we receive the eucharist at Mass. The heart is one of the most vital organs of our human body. When we receive Jesus, we receive his very heart with which he loves us and calls us to follow him as his disciples. In our Catholic faith, we should connect the Sacred Heart to our love of the eucharist.

In his last encyclical written in October 2025, Pope Francis wrote on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Pope Francis stated: “before the heart of Jesus, living and present, our mind, enlightened by the Spirit, grows in the understanding of his words and our will is moved to put (his words) into practice…. Only the heart is capable of setting our other powers and passions, and our entire person, in a stance of reverence and loving obedience before the Lord.”

As we reflect upon Jesus’ sacred heart, our own hearts are to be touched by his death on a cross, by the way the soldier thrust a lance into his side, out of which blood and water flowed. The great Church theologian St Augustine of Hippo saw Christ as the door through which we enter for salvation; that door was opened for us by his death and resurrection, by the soldier’s lance that opened his side. We choose where we want to enter Christ, to enter from his side as he hung dying upon the cross, the side from which the blood and water flowed. The purification we receive from Christ is the water that flowed from his side. The redemption we receive from him is his blood shed for us.  

Jesus’s profound love for us is demonstrated through his willingness to sacrifice his life for the sake of all humanity. The love which emanated from Jesus’ heart motivated all his actions. However, humanity often received Jesus’ love with ingratitude. The purpose of the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is to focus our hearts on receiving and returning his love with gratitude: with our hearts, our souls, and our strength, to the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. As our world continues to attach itself to secularism, atheism, agnosticism, apathy, injustices, indifferences, and a rejection of faith, we are in need of the power of God's love more than ever, which makes the devotion to the Sacred Heart an important message to the world. 

12 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Friday of the 10th week in Ordinary Time

Lord Jesus - your love is everlasting. 

Christ Jesus - you are the beloved son of the Father. 

Lord Jesus - you are our savior and our redeemer. 

Priest: Confident in God’s love and fidelity, with hearts open wide, let us bring our prayers before the Lord:

1. That we in the Church may be courageous in listening to the cries of those who suffer.

2. That our governmental leaders and those in positions of power seek justice and serve with wisdom. 

3. For those in need, especially the overlooked, the burdened, and the voiceless. May they find dignity, comfort, and healing. 

4. That we in our parish community grow in our capacity to listen deeply, act justly, and love boldly as Christ has called us. 

5. For those who have died, especially our deceased loved ones and family members. May they be welcomed into the eternal joy of God’s presence.

6. That we may always live out the Gospel of life in our words and our actions. 

7. For the prayers we hold in our hearts this morning. 

Priest: Loving God, as you call us to be a people of works of faith, we ask that you hear these prayers we offer, through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN. 

12 June 2026 - Friday of the 10th week in Ordinary Time - Psalm 27

In the last couple of weeks, we have celebrated the feast days of St Dominic de Calzada and St John de Ortega, two saints who worked and served on the Camino of Santiago pilgrimage route about 1,000 years ago. Today, celebrate another saint connect with the Camino of Santiago - St John of Sahagún, who lived in the 15th century. John was born into a prominent family in the kingomd of León in Spain.  He was ordained as a diocesan priest, but later joined the Augustinian order, the same order to which Pope Leo XIV is a member. He was twice elected as prior of the Augustinian monastery in Salamanca in Spain. John was known for his wisdom and his prudence. He used his skills to reconcile feuding families. He championed the rights of laborers. He was a man of prayer who was very devoted to the Eucharist. He reached out to the widow, the orphan, the needy, and the sick with great compassion. The  city of Salamanca where he lived, an important university town in Spain, was a very divided city. Due to John's repeated attempts to reconcile the community, the opposing nobles of Salamanca signed a peace treaty in 1476. John died in 1479 and was canonized a saint in 1690.  

Like many of the psalms, psalm 27 is attributed to King David. Our psalm today states that even though God invited David to seek him, David sensed that God was hiding from him. But rather than turn away from God in disappointment and anger, David turned to God even more diligently and earnestly. At the end of the psalm, David encourages us to wait for the Lord with courage. Sometimes when we don’t feel the presence of the Lord in our lives, it can be frustrating and lonely. But in all circumstances, we are not to give up in our search for the Lord.  

11 June 2026 - homily for Thursday of the 10th week in Ordinary Time - Acts 11:21b-26; 13:1-3

We honor Barnabas today. He was one of the apostles who helped spread the way of Jesus in the early Church throughout the ancient world. Barnabas worked closely with Paul, as we heard in today’s first reading from the Acts of the Apostles.  We don’t know a lot of details about many of the apostles, but we know that they worked diligently in spreading the Gospel and that they encouraged those who were following on that road of faith. 

As I was on some mission appeals earlier in the month, telling them that they should see our work in the Diocese of Jackson in the context of the missionary work of the global Catholic Church, we should also see ourselves following in the footsteps of the first disciples and the members of the early Church. Like Barnabas and Paul, our missionary spirit should out beyond the confines of our home parish to other parts of the community and beyond where we can share our faith with others. 

We give thanks for Barnabas today and for all the members of the Early Church who worked tirelessly in spreading the faith.  And we pray for all those many people who are working to spread the faith today, those who are keeping the spirit of the Early Church alive and vibrant. 

7 June 2026 - Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ - 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, John 6:51-58

One day, someone observed Mother Teresa of Calcutta as she brought in a woman to one of her centers.  This poor woman had been living on the streets and was barely alive.  Her body was covered in sores and was infested with bugs.  But Mother Teresa did not flinch when touching here.  She very lovingly and tenderly bathed and cared for this lady from the streets.  She cleaned and dressed her wounds.  All the while, the woman was screaming and cursing at Mother Teresa, hurling insults and threats against her.  Mother Teresa responded lovingly, without any anger or frustration.  Later, Mother Teresa was asked how she can do this work day in and day out without getting frustrated or impatient.  Mother Teresa replied: The Mass, the Eucharist, is the spiritual food that sustains me in my life.  Without the Eucharist, I could not get through one single day or one single hour of my life.  

Today, we celebrate the Body and Blood of Christ that we receive in the Eucharist.  Lumen Gentium, a document from the Second Vatican Council, called the Eucharist the source and summit of Christian life, stating that our very life of faith and very identity as disciples of Christ should flow out of the Eucharist.  

 “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever.”  This strong statement from the sixth chapter of John’s Gospel is a part of the Bread of Life discourse. If we Catholics want to really know what we believe regarding the Eucharist that we receive at mass, we could read this chapter again and again and still learn something from it each time we read it. Certainly, Jesus does not hold back his words in today’s Gospel. Our Church believe want is contained in the truth of these words. These words are not just symbols.  We are to believe what these words say and to live them out each day on our journey of faith.   These words are to be believed in what they say.  These words are to be lived on our journey of faith each day.  For us, the Eucharist is much more than a memorial service using ordinary wine and bread.  The Eucharist is a sacrifice and a meal. The sacrifice comes in two forms. First, as disciples of Christ, we give ourselves over to him as a sacrifice. Secondly,  in our celebration of the mass, in the reception of his body and blood, we continue the sacrifice made by Christ in his flesh and his blood.  In the Eucharistic meal, we accept the gift of holy food in the form or Christ’s body and blood. So, we celebrate our joyful solemnity today as believers in the Body and Blood of Christ.

Pope Francis said something very profound about the Eucharist that has helped me see the Eucharist in a new light. Pope Francis echoed what St Ambrose, a Doctor of the Church, said many centuries ago: “If, whenever Christ’s blood is shed, it is shed for the forgiveness of sins, I who sin often, should receive it often: I need a frequent remedy.” Pope Francis has said that the Eucharist is not a prize for the just or a reward for living a perfect life, but rather that the Eucharist is a sacrament of healing, a type of spiritual food and spiritual medicine that corresponds spiritually to the nourishment and healing that is brought about by the food our physical bodies consume.  The Eucharist strengthens us in our weaknesses and heals us in our infirmities. 

Then we have the thoughts and reflections of Pope Benedict XVI, who emphasized not only the deep, mystical spirituality we can derive from the Eucharist, but also saw the Eucharist as being able to have a profound affect on our daily lives.  Benedict wrote: “The Lord gives himself to us in bodily form. That is why we must respond to him bodily. That means above all that the Eucharist must reach out beyond the limits of the Church itself in the manifold forms of service to men and women and to the world. But it also means that our religion, our prayer, demands bodily expression. Because the Lord, the Risen One, gives us himself in the Body, we have to respond in soul and body.”  Benedict expands upon what Paul tells the Church at Corinth: that in the cup we receive and in the bread we break together as a community, we participate in Christ’s Body and Blood. As we receive the Body and Blood of Christ, we become the Body and Blood of Christ to the world.

Indeed, being the Body and Blood of Christ means living the Eucharist, which we know is not an easy or one-sided task.  It is actually a life-long task.   As we meditate on the mystery that we receive each time we gather around the Lord’s table in our Eucharistic celebration, let us try each day to become what we believe, to become what we receive.  

Prayers of the faithful for the Thursday of the 10th week in Ordinary Time - 11 June 2026

Lord Jesus - you call us to a life of discipleship. 

Christ Jesus - you are the beloved son of the Father. 

Lord Jesus - you were born of the Virgin Mary. 

Priest: Heavenly Father, with joy and hope in our hearts, we present you our prayers this evening: 

1. That the Church reflect the love and unity of God. 

2. That all of us Christians be witnesses of God’s mercy, justice, and peace. 

3. That the leaders of government and society have actions that are 

rooted in patience, kindness, and faithfulness.

4. For those who struggle to see God’s goodness due to grief or suffering: 5. That we allow our faith to free us to reflect compassion, humility, and joy. 

6. For those who have died, especially our family members and loved ones. May they rejoice in the eternal communion of the Father, Son, and Spirit. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. 

Priest: We ask that you help us to be open to your love and kindness as we present these prayers through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN. 

10 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Wednesday of the 10th week of ordinary time

Lord Jesus - you call us to God’s truth. 

Christ Jesus - you call us to obey God’s commandments.

Lord Jesus - you bring us the joy of the Gospel message. 

Priest: As we present our prayers to you today, we ask that you send us the Holy Spirit to lead us and guide us: 

1. We pray for our farmers and our gardeners. For a good harvest and for good weather. 

2. For blessings and safety for all traveling throughout the summer months. 

3. For those who are unemployed and looking for work. 

4. That our children, youth, and college students have a good summer break. 

5. For our first responders, for our veterans, and for the men and women serving in the military. For peace throughout the world, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East. 

6. For the prayer intention of Pope Leo for the month of June: that sports be an instrument of peace, encounter, and dialogue among cultures and nations, and that they promote values such as respect, solidarity, and personal growth.

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. 

Priest: God of endless mercy, you meet us in our doubt, our joy, and our need. Through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. Amen.

10 June 2026 - homily for Wednesday of the 10th week in Ordinary Time - Matthew 5:17-19

Antoni Gaudi (1852 – 1926) was a celebrated Spanish architect. As a young man, he lived a extravagant lifestyle. As an architect, he became well-known for his unique architectural style, which is described as both neo-gothic and whimsical. Gaudi built the episcopal palace in the city of Astorga to be the residence of the bishop.  Astorga is an important city on the Camino pilgrimage route. His friend, the bishop there at the time, had commissioned him to build this residence when the old one burned down in the late 19th century. Most of Gaudi’s projects are located in the Catalonia in eastern Spain. Guadi designed Park Güell in the city of Barcelona for the elites classes there. The Church of the Holy Family (Sagrada Familia) is considered to Gaudi’s crowning glory and an expression of his Catholic Faith. Construction on the church started in 1882. The six main towers were finally completed last year, but construction work on the church continues to this day. That church has been designated a minor basilica and has brought many visitors to experience its beauty. Gaudi started attending daily mass and dressed as a humble laborer while working on that church.He died on June 10, 1926, after having been struck by a street car.  He is proposed as a candidate for canonization. In 1925, he was declared venerable. 

In our Gospel today from Matthew, Jesus addressing God’s law, saying that he did not come to abolish the law of God, but rather, he came to fulfill God’s law and to uphold the law. So many people in society don’t want to recognize that there are laws that come from God, wanting to make up their own laws and their own rules.  They think that the laws and traditions that we have been observing don’t make sense any more, and that includes God’s law. But God’s law in there to lead us and guide us on our journey, to keep us on the right path. May we keep God’s law in our hearts and in our lives. 

9 June 2026 - prayers of the faithful for Tuesday of the 10th week in ordinary time

Lord Jesus - you are a light shining in the world. 

Christ Jesus - you reflect your Father’s mercy. 

Lord Jesus - you are our savior and our redeemer. 

Priest: With humble hearts, we present our prayers to our heavenly Father:

1. That Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and all our Church leaders may lead us and guide us to the path of greater holiness. 

2. For those who are hungry and who face food security. 

3. That we may open our eyes and ears to the prophets and teachers that God has sent to the world. 

4. For a greater devotion to the Eucharist and to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 

5. That all of us would see Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. 

6. That the Gospel of life may be reflected in the words and actions of our daily lives. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

Priest: As we try to follow the path of discipleship, we present our prayers through your son, Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever.  AMEN. 

9 June 2026 - homily for Tuesday of the 10th week in Ordinary Time - St Ephrem - 1 Kings 17:7-16

Today, we celebrate St Ephrem.  Born in Mesopotamia in the year 306, Ephrem was baptized as a young man and became well-known in his community as a teacher.  When his community taken over by the Persians, with the Christians losing control, he and many other Christians fled to another city, Edessa, where he brought great acclaim to the biblical school there and where he was ordained as a deacon. In the essays, poems, and hymns that he wrote, he showed great holiness and embodied orthodox doctrine, combating the heresies of his day.  As a reflection of his simple humble austere faith, Ephrem spent his last days living in a cave outside of the city of Edessa. But even in the midst of living as a hermit, he left his cave to help victims of a terrible famine. He died in 373 AD.  Ephrem was named as a Doctor of the Church by Pope Francis at the beginning of his papacy. 

Ahab was the king of the northern kingdom in Ancient Israel.  He and his people had strayed very far from their faith in God, even worshipping false idols.  The prophet Elijah was raised up by God in order to confront King Ahab and to speak the truth as a spokesperson for God. As a part of this prophetic undertaking, God sent Elijah on a journey, providing for all of Elijah’s needs. Ravens even bring Elijah food out in the wilderness The reading from 1 Kings today tells how God sends Elijah to a poor widow and her son who were on the brink of starvation themselves. Yet, through Elijah, God provided the miracle of producing an endless supply of food from a small quantity of flour found in a jar to keep all of them alive. God can work miracles in our lives. We can help God enact those miracles through our own acts of mercy and love. 

7 June 2026 - Prayers of the faithful for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ - prison ministry

Introduction: Last Sunday, we celebrated the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity. This weekend, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. We give thanks for the gift of faith that we receive in the Eucharist each time we celebrate Mass. May we truly appreciate the ways Christ enters our lives in a special way in the Eucharist. 

Penitential rite - priest

Lord Jesus - you are the eternal high priest - Lord have mercy.

Christ Jesus - your body and blood give us new life - Christ have mercy. 

Lord Jesus - you are the way to peace and wholeness - Lord have mercy.

Prayers:

Priest: We the members of the Church are the Body of Christ. Let us offer our prayers for our needs and the needs of the world from our altar here on earth to God’s altar in heaven:

1. May the nourishment we receive in the Eucharist give us the strength to make sacrifices for others, giving of ourselves for those in need. We pray to the Lord. 2. That our elected leaders may hear and respond to the cries of the poor and the needy. We pray to the Lord.

3. For farmers, ranchers, farm workers, fishermen, and gardeners. For all whose work puts food on our tables. May they be blessed with good weather and a bountiful harvest. We pray for a good harvest for our gardens here at CMCF. We pray to the Lord.

4. For those who thirst and hunger for justice and peace. May we all work together for an end to war, terrorism, and violence. We pray especially for peace in Ukraine and in the Middle East. We pray for peace here at CMCF. We pray to the Lord.

5. That our participation in the Eucharist may steadily transform us into the body of Christ. We pray to the Lord.

6. That in our words and our actions, we may bring hope to those who are struggling and afflicted. We pray for all who are dealing with anxiety, depression, addictions, and mental health issues. We pray to the Lord.

7. For our first responders, our veterans, the men and women in the military, and our medical professionals. We pray to the Lord.

8. For our children and our families. May they feel our love and prayers reaching out to them. We pray to the Lord. 

9. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. We pray to the Lord.

Priest: May the body and blood of your son nourish us and sustain us on our mission as his disciples. We make our prayers through Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN. 

7 June 2026 - Prayers of the faithful for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

Introduction: Last Sunday, we celebrated the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity. This weekend, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. We give thanks for the gift of faith that we receive in the Eucharist each time we celebrate Mass. May we truly appreciate the ways Christ enters our lives in a special way in the Eucharist. 

Penitential rite - priest

Lord Jesus - you are the eternal high priest - Lord have mercy.

Christ Jesus - your body and blood give us new life - Christ have mercy. 

Lord Jesus - you are the way to peace and wholeness - Lord have mercy.

Prayers:

Priest: We the members of the Church are the Body of Christ. Let us offer our prayers for our needs and the needs of the world from our altar here on earth to God’s altar in heaven:

1. May the nourishment we receive in the Eucharist give us the strength to make sacrifices for others, giving of ourselves for those in need. We pray to the Lord. 2. That our elected leaders may hear and respond to the cries of the poor and the needy. We pray to the Lord.

3. For farmers, ranchers, farm workers, fishermen, and gardeners. For all whose work puts food on our tables. May they be blessed with good weather and a bountiful harvest. We pray to the Lord.

4. For those who thirst and hunger for justice and peace. May we all work together for an end to war, terrorism, and violence. We pray especially for peace in Ukraine and in the Middle East. We pray to the Lord.

5. That our participation in the Eucharist may steadily transform us into the body of Christ. We pray to the Lord.

6. That in our words and our actions, we may bring hope to those who are struggling and afflicted. We pray to the Lord.

7. For our first responders, our veterans, the men and women in the military, and our medical professionals. We pray to the Lord.

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. We pray to the Lord.

Priest: May the body and blood of your son nourish us and sustain us on our mission as his disciples. We make our prayers through Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN.  

7 June 2026 - bulletin reflection for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

Known also by its Latin title, Corpus Christi, this wonderful celebration this weekend is a special celebration of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. As we have been promoting education on the importance of the Eucharist in our Catholic faith in recent years, and as we have been promoting adoration of the blessed sacrament in a special way here in our parish in recent years, this weekend’s celebration should resinate in our hearts and in our lives in a special way. As I am in the Diocese of Des Moines, Iowa for a mission appeal this weekend, know that all of you are in my prayers. Blessings - Father Lincoln. 

5 June 2026 - homily for Friday of the 9th week in Ordinary time - 2 Timothy 3:10-17

Scripture scholars believe that St Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy in order to encourage Timothy and motivate him in his ministry to the people of Ephesus. We might wonder why Paul includes these wise words about Scripture in this letter, because surely Paul had spoken to Timothy about Sacred Scripture previously. Perhaps it is because when we get bogged down with the busy details of our daily lives, when we're stressed out about things and when we try to live out the Gospel in the midst of so much that is going on, we can lose sight of what is central. Perhaps these words about Scripture are a reminder for us today, to see the truth in God’s word and not to try to twist it into our desires and whims. It is easy to manipulate God’s word, but we go back to the Word of God again and again for it to instruct us and correct us and guide us.

Today, we commemorate the feast day of St Boniface, who was an English Benedictine monk and priest who evangelized the Germanic people of Europe in the 8th century, a period of European history known as the dark ages, a period of cultural and intellectual decline in Europe. St Boniface missionary work is often likened to that of St Paul, of his work in proclaiming the Gospel to the Gentiles in the ancient world. It was Pope Gregory II who sent Boniface to continental Europe as a missionary. Like Paul, Boniface dedicated himself 100% to spreading the Gospel amongst people who often practiced idol worship. 

Like Paul, Boniface’s charismatic personality and spiritual gifts attracted people to Jesus’ way of living out the Gospel message. Boniface did in the year 754 when a group of pagans struck him down while he was in the process of confirming into the Church some newly baptized members.Today, Boniface is recognized as the patron saint of Germany. He is an inspiration and example to many in the faith.

5 June 2026 - Prayers of the Faithful for Friday of the 9th week of Ordinary time

Lord Jesus - you call us to be missionary in spirit. 

Christ Jesus - you proclaim the peace of God’s kingdom. 

Lord Jesus - you bring us new life. 

Priest: As we place our trust in the mercy of the risen Lord, we lift our prayers for the Church, the world, and all in need. 

1. That we may be a community of compassion, forgiveness, and witness to the resurrection. 

2. For Pope Leo XIV and for his prayer intention for the month of June: that sports be an instrument of peace, encounter, and dialogue among cultures and nations; that they promote values such as respect, solidarity, and personal growth.

3. For our deceased family members and loved ones. For their entry into eternal life. 

4. That nations burdened by violence, poverty, and injustice may feel the transformative power of Christ’s peace. 

5. For safety for all those who are traveling during the summer months. For our children, youth, and college students, that they may have a good summer break. 

6. For our children and youth who are engaged in Vacation Bible School this week. In thanksgiving for all who have helped this week. 

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts. 

Priest: With joy and faith, we present these prayers through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN. 

4 June 2026 - homily for Thursday of the 9th week in Ordinary time - 2 Timothy 2:8-15

Today, we commemorate St Petroc, who was born in Wales in the 6th century. He is said to have been the son of a Welsh chieftain. He studied in Ireland and established a monastery in England, ministering to the people of Cornwall, Devon, and Wales, establishing many different churches in those areas. He was known for his virtue of humility. Many legends and stories are told of his humility.  He became an important saint in England in the medieval period, with many people visiting the shrine dedicated to him. One legend is told of him arrogantly thinking he could predict the weather. In penance for his arrogance, it is told that he went to Rome and Jerusalem on pilgrimage, then went to India, where he lived on an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean for 7 years, and then returned to Britain with a wolf as a pet that he got in India.  

Today, from the second letter of Timothy, Paul speaks about the sufferings he endures, that he sees these sufferings as down the same path of sufferings that Christ endured. Paul knows that persevering and enduring these sufferings for the sake of the Gospel is part of the life of a disciple of Christ. In our sufferings, we are to see these sufferings as united with Christ’s sufferings. We should see our life of discipleship as a part of the enduring mission of the Church that is a continuation of Christ’s mission. There is so much we can learn from Paul about how he approached his life of discipleship in the midst of many sufferings and challenges and hardships, but in the midst of all those things, joys and blessings as well.