Hope Found in Communities

You have often heard me express in my homilies my deep longing for unity among all of us, the children of God, as well as my yearning for an end to violence and the flourishing of peace in our cities and nations. We are living in a violent world, and I often ask myself, “How did we get into this mess?” I am sure that you share my sentiments and concerns.

Last Sunday, my friend Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David celebrated the Mass at the Cathedral for the 69th Canonical Coronation Anniversary of Virgen De Los Remedios. In his homily, he spoke about the diabolical forces behind the deep divisions, violence, conflicts, wars, and corruption we face in our world today. It seems that Satan has taken hold of many individuals, including leaders within our religious hierarchies and communities. As the Cardinal noted, people have selfishly chosen the path of “My Way” rather than “God’s Way.”

When we reflect on various eras and generations, including those found in the Bible, we cannot help but recognize that division, hatred, racial conflict, wars, and violence are age-old problems. Our ancestors grappled with the same issues we face today. There were periods of both violence and war, as well as times of peace and harmony. It is my hope that our present generation will overcome these forces of division and conflict and rediscover the harmony and serenity of years past.

I firmly believe that communities like ours here at Incarnation serve as sources of hope and strength as we confront the challenges of our society and our world. In healthy, Gospel-driven spiritual communities, we can find the wisdom, strength, and hope we seek, as long as we continue to authentically preach and practice the virtues of love, mercy, compassion, and service. The pure motives of love, kindness, and respect that we extend to one another inspire hope for peace and harmony in our midst.

Therefore, as we navigate the problems and challenges facing our society, nation, and Church, let us commit ourselves to building a welcoming and loving community here in Glendale and beyond. We must ensure that everyone feels valued, respected, and welcomed. Let us not allow our differing opinions to destroy our relationships.

In this Sunday’s Gospel reading, which features the Parable of the Shrewd Manager, Jesus surprises us by praising the manager for his shrewdness rather than his dishonesty. When the manager learns that he might lose his job, he speaks to his laborers about reducing their debts to the master, hoping that the kindness he shows them will benefit him when he is out of work. The key point of the parable underscores the significance of human relationships and our responsibility to manage and nurture them well.

Similarly, we at Incarnation Church must prioritize our human relationships. Caring for our church involves more than merely renovating or improving our facilities; it is chiefly about building a community of faith, hope, and love, enhancing our relationships with one another, and supporting those who feel marginalized. To be good stewards of our Church means maintaining healthy families and fostering unity among us.

Blessings,