Wedding at Cana (Jn 2:1-12)

  Mary was invoked by our loving founder as Mother of Divine Providence, because he recognized in this image the tenderness of the provident Father and measureless love of a mother. This Guanellian Spirituality is well established in today’s Gospel of John. There is only place in the Gospel, an effective interaction between Jesus and his mother. Usually the Old Testament scripture was known for the father-son relationship. Here the relationship between the Mother and Son is explained vividly in few lines. I would like to show 3 aspects of Guanellian spirituality. 

1. Mother presenting a son: The first words of Mary according to John, v.3 When the wine was gone, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no more wine” (Οἶνον οὐκ ἔχουσιν). There is a Johannine touch in the text. She did not say, “There is no wine”. The presence of negative adverb, ouk – no more, the Jews had no more wine, as if they knew nothing about wine, manifest them the real wine. Here no article, after the miracle, there is an article (steward of the feast tasted the wine), the wine. 

  The narration is very implicit, six stone jars for the Jewish rites of purification, the strange mention of number six for John. There should be seven jars, of course, incomplete. (7 signs, 7 women, 7 Jewish feasts, 7 disciples speak). Seventh jar was Jesus himself produced the wine.  

  A widowed mother presents her son as a Messiah, a new wine to the world. Mother of Divine Providence expresses the providence of the Father, presents the newness of the Son. Jesus is the best expression of Providence. The centre of the Guanellian message is God’s Providence, offered and presented by a Mother. 

  Whoever venerates this mother divine providence should have the same spirit of prayer, “Providence was always with me. I was never afraid of debts or fearful for my life; Providence is our defense; thus, nothing should scare us. Even at present, in the midst of painful events, I am not afraid: Providence watches over us. Providence will be our friend if we put our love and trust in Her. (L. Guanella, La Divina Provvidenza, 1915, p. 85). 

  This “continuous” benevolence of the Father is Providence, the gift of a mother, saying, “God sees me. God provides for His children.” This abandonment in God the Father was for Fr. Guanella his experience of Providence.

2. Jesus presenting Mary: any Jewish woman has to undergo 3 different stages which Mary also underwent here. Mary as a woman, a virgin and finally mother. 

  Scipione from Gaeta who pictured this image in 16th century told about his painting, “one could feel in the picture, a moment of maternal ecstasy: one of those ecstasies that every woman experience when they bear a child. He has drawn not only a woman, but more than a woman, the virgin Mother God.” Look at the eye sight of Mary, dress (copioso manto), veil, gesture of her hand; the way carries a child like a Mediterranean woman of that time. 

  Jesus addressed Mary, woman, in greek, gune, in the vocative case, gunai. Twice he called Mary like that in John. At the cross, woman, behold your son. It is hardly being disrespectful or rude. We should not embarrass the way Jesus calls Mary woman, no mothers were called by the proper or common name. (Jesus called no other woman, woman). By calling woman, Jesus honors Mary. 

  Jesus presents the Jewish woman, invites for the new relationship in the culture, society. Mary becomes a new Eve of the humanity; The first Eve was also called "woman" (Gen. 2:22), became mother of the Church and God becomes an example of interculturality carrying together inculturation of faith and evangelization of culture. 

3. Mary presenting disciples: these were the last words of Mary do whatever he tells you.. The slogan of the 17th general chapter of St. Mary of Divine Providence. Fate quello che vi dira. Actually speaking mother Mary does not have the copy right for these words. There is an internal contact in the scripture. Gen 41:55. If u see the Septuagint translation, John has copied from Genesis. There were 7 years of terrible famine in Egypt, people had no bread, rice they were dying. The soldiers came to Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. He indicated Joseph and told the same words of Mary, do whatever he says to you. 

  Words of King Pharaoh and Mary were the act of trust that undergoes any vocational discernment, revealing perfect, implicit and cheerful obedience. That wedding at Cana was the sign of a larger banquet: that of God with humanity, where the Mother of Jesus has its important role to play with her sensibility to the culture and society where we live. We should be able to invite everyone as family of God, and especially to make family with our poor. In April 1886, a small group of sisters left for Como with few poor, to open the House of Divine Providence in Via Tommaso Grossi. Dear Sisters, you should have the same heart with strong faith and trust of Guanella when carrying on our simple works of charity.  

  Concluding this, I believe that wedding at Cana may be suitable for our Guanellian family, in its application and in its symbolism, through which we express our spirituality and mission. In the name of Fr. Superior, all the Confreres, brothers, I wish you a happy feast we shall be accompanied by Mary, mother of divine providence.

Today’s context is more different than Cana and Como. Mary, the first believer, help us all to discern the path that Jesus points to inculturate and live today the Guanellian charism with that faith and charity that characterized the founder's life. (4th Provincial Chapter). Let us not do what Indians say, Italians say, phil.. Do whatever he says. She who tells us Jesus and her Word as a sure guide helps us to welcome new innovations of spirit with which to interpret and live our charism today with total availability of faith, charity, enthusiasm and fidelity.

Not only in the moments of Joys, but also in the moments of sorrow, we invoke the mother of Providence, “I believe that this illness of mine was sent by God’s Providence for extraordinary graces upon the House; extraordinary suffering, extraordinary graces… Because I intercede to the Lord on behalf of the Institute and you, I do not desist to send fiery words to God! ... God will take care of you. Nothing is necessary here on earth. Providence will help you! Death! Paradise! In your hands, O Lord! … Let you all follow me by carrying out this program of life: Prayer and Suffering!”

(L. Guanella, La Divina Provvidenza, October 1915, p. 150)

Homily 2: on 12 Nov 2019

Everyone has a dream wedding. Marriage is an important milestone in the life of the common people. They wait for the day; whether it’s a simple civil wedding or an extravagant church wedding, you need one thing; Preparation. We are going to see a typical ancient traditional Filipino wedding, esp in the province during pre-colonial times. (used to take long days)  

1. Bridegroom: He is patrono of the wedding function. Traditionally the bridegroom’s family is responsible for the expenses, arrangement of the wedding. The grandparents act as the primary witnesses/ sponsors. The wedding dress is important for the marriage, they reveal the identity. (Remember a parable of the wedding feast, when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. (Mt 22:11) he had a reason because bridegroom’s family is responsible for the wedding dress of the participants). The parents of the bride are responsible for the traditional white gown of bride. Filipino barong (made of delicate pineapple fibers) is the suitable dress for marriage. 

During the wedding at Cana, the attention goes to the bridegroom, When the wine was gone, the mother of Jesus went to the bridegroom, “They have no more wine’. It should not be read, there is no wine. The presence of negative adverb, ouk – no more, the Jews had no more wine, as if they knew nothing about wine, manifest them the real wine. Here no article, after the miracle, there is an article (steward of the feast tasted the wine), the wine. 

Jesus is the real bridegroom of our Community, newness for this community, do not fast, enjoy with him and taste him. I remember another episode before the public ministry of Jesus, The disciples of the John the Baptist ask, why others fast, your disciples do not fast, How can the wedding guests fast, when there is bridegroom. Jesus said to them, "The wedding guests cannot fast while the bridegroom is with them, can they? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. (Mk 2:19)

In the present time, there is a greater joy, urgent to contemplate, and taste the divine beauty. Will of God to make this marriage with this humanity, here that is why we cannot fast, we should not fast because it is the time of the wedding. Time to taste him and his gift of wine for the good of the marriage. Jesus is the best expression of Providence. 

2. Bride: The bride is an interesting figure in the wedding. She is not less to the bridegroom, she is the who follows the bridegroom, going to merge with him in his life. During the wedding, suspense is the arrival of the bride. The groom should always arrive before the bride; bride should come mamaya, otherwise it will be bad luck. She should be accompanied by the mother/father of the bridegroom. 

In the wedding at Cana, Mary presenting disciples and accompanies the disciples to the bridegroom: She says, Do whatever he tells you. There were six stood six stone water jars (Jewish tradition used for ceremonial washing), Jesus said to the servants, "Fill the jars with water"; so they filled them to the brim. The bride is following the bridegroom with trust and obedience. This act of mutual trust and obedience is not only necessary for the successful married life but also any vocational discernment, revealing perfect, implicit and cheerful obedience. 

A group of young consecrated women had founded a home in the village for the elderly and for abandoned children, with the support of the parish priest Fr. Carlo Coppini, who died earlier that year. The Providence showed them Fr. Guanella, priest of prejudice, “hot-head man!” But they trusted simply like the disciples believing the words of Mary. (included Clare and Marcellina Bosatta), Because of the trust, they shifted from Pianello to Como,  Dear Sisters, do not be afraid to trust with strong faith when carrying on our Guanella’s works of charity.  

3. Babaylan: The wedding was officiated by a babaylan, a tribal priest. The house of the babaylan was the ceremonial center for the nuptial. On the first day, the couple was brought to the priest's home, where the babaylan blessed them, while their hands are joined over a container of uncooked rice. On the third day, the priest would prick their chests to draw a small amount of blood, which will be placed in a container to be mixed with water. After announcing their love for each other three times, they were fed by the priest with cooked rice coming from a single container. Afterward, they were to drink the water that was mixed with their blood. The priest proclaimed that they were officially wed after their necks and hands were bound by a cord or, sometimes, once their long hairs had been entwined together. In lieu of the babaylan, the chief of the town may also officiate Filipino wedding. Priest is the bridge between bride and bridegroom. 

In Wedding at Cana, there is a presence of Babaylan, Mary, the figure of Mary is necessary for any disciple who wants to identify his Master, find and surrender to him. Mary decides the hour of mercy for Jesus and the disciples, she decides the whole miracle to be a sign within two words, V.3 and V. 5 are the, She tells Jesus, “There is no more wine”, turns to the disciples, say “Do whatever he tells you”. The bride and bridegroom need to keep a simple act of trust with the mother, who can perform the rite of unity.  

Mary was invoked by our loving founder as Mother of Divine Providence, because he recognized in this image the tenderness of the provident Father and measureless love of a mother. This Guanellian Spirituality is well established in today’s Gospel of John. There is only place in the Gospel, an effective interaction between Jesus and his mother. 

If you want to enjoy a faithful, lifelong relationship with Jesus, we need a mother, consoling, interceding and protecting. Whoever venerates this mother divine providence should have the same spirit of prayer, “Providence was always with me. I was never afraid of debts or fearful for my life; Providence is our defense; thus, nothing should scare us. Even at present, in the midst of painful events, I am not afraid: Providence watches over us. Providence will be our friend if we put our love and trust in Her. (L. Guanella, La Divina Provvidenza, 1915, p. 85). 

  This “continuous” benevolence of the Father is Providence, the gift of a mother, saying, “God sees me. God provides for His children.” This abandonment in God the Father was for Fr. Guanella his experience of Providence.

Concluding this, I believe that wedding at Cana may be suitable for our Guanellian family, in its application and in its symbolism, through which we express our spirituality and mission. In the name of Fr. Superior, all the Confreres, brothers, I wish you a happy feast we shall be accompanied by Mary, mother of divine providence.

Today’s context is more different than Cana and Como. Mary, the first believer, help us all to discern the path that Jesus points to inculturate and live today the Guanellian charism with that faith and charity that characterized the founder's life. Let us welcome new innovations of spirit with which to interpret and live our charism today with total availability of faith, charity, enthusiasm and fidelity.

Faith and humility go together! (Luke 7: 36-50)

 Faith is the ultimate virtue, 

The sinful woman in the Gospel and St. Paul in the first reading invites us to acquire a strong and unshakable faith through acts of humility. Faith and humility go together. Faith can never be expressed through pride. 

How a Sinful woman can possess this alabaster jar with fragrant ointment. A jar was often presented to a young woman by her parents as a gift to give her betrothed as a sign of commitment. It was also often used to anoint bodies for burial. It was designed to be broken open only once, with great intention. Probably lonely, she decided to use it as a precious gift, the pride of her family, which she applied with love and passion. 

How can we grand things? Greatness in faith comes through small acts of love and surrender, not through extraordinary achievements. Instead of performing grand things, we should focus on small acts of love, sacrifice and service. 

Paul was great in Corinth, but he says he is unfit to be called an Apostle, he feels guilt for what he did to the Church.   

Faith would bear fruit, only when we embrace humility. The Pride is like a thermite, it will make the essentials empty. 

Exalted vulnerability - Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, celebrated today, has deep historical and theological significance in the Christian tradition. It commemorates the discovery and veneration of the True Cross, upon which Jesus was crucified, as well as the broader theological meaning of the cross as the ultimate symbol of Christ’s victory over sin and death.

A. Historical Background

(1) Discovery of the True Cross: In the early 4th century, St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Around 326 AD, she is believed to have discovered the True Cross at the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, Golgotha. According to tradition, three crosses were found, and the one believed to be the True Cross was identified when a dying woman was healed after touching it.

(2) The Dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: After St. Helena’s discovery, Emperor Constantine ordered the construction of two basilicas on the site of the crucifixion and resurrection—one at Golgotha and the other at the site of Jesus’ tomb, now known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The dedication of these churches in 335 AD marked the first celebration of the Exaltation of the Cross.

(3) The Recovery of the Cross from the Persians: In 614 AD, the True Cross was captured by the Persian Empire during an invasion of Jerusalem. It remained in Persian hands until 628 AD when the Byzantine Emperor Heraclius recaptured it. Tradition holds that Heraclius personally carried the cross back to Jerusalem, where it was again exalted and venerated.

The whole history of salvation is located between the images of two trees; the tree of knowledge that is found in the book of Genesis. The cross is made up of a wooden tree. 

The reason why Jesus died on a cross or a tree is that, in the very beginning, man stole from the tree, God put back on the tree for you and me to undo everything that was done in the beginning.

His hands are pierced because our hands stole from the tree, 

his feet were pierced because the first messianic prophecy involves the feet

right his side is pierced because Eve came from the side, so he is making atonement for Eve one who led into temptation,     

crown of thorns on his head why?

the curse of creation is that "By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return". the ground produces thorns and thistles, he is literally taking the curse on his head to reverse it and restore the blessing. 

C. Vulnerability on the cross

The paradox of the cross is that on it hangs our vulnerability.

(1) The cross is the symbol of vulnerability that provides healing: The first reading (Numbers 21:4-9) shows how the Israelites, bitten by serpents due to their lack of faith, are saved by looking at the bronze serpent lifted up by Moses. This foreshadows Christ’s own lifting up on the cross in John 3:13-17, where He is offered as a remedy for sin. Just as the Israelites found healing in something that seemed like a curse (a serpent), we find redemption through Christ’s crucifixion – a symbol of vulnerability and weakness. It is through this vulnerability that God’s love and mercy are exalted, as the very thing that looks like defeat becomes the instrument of salvation.

(2) The cross as the ultimate act of humility: In the alternative reading (Philippians 2:6-11), St. Paul tells us that Christ “emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave” and “became obedient to death, even death on a cross.” The cross reveals the vulnerability of God who chose to become one of us, suffer, and die for our sake. It is in this self-emptying love that Christ is exalted. His humility – descending into human frailty – becomes the path to glory, showing us that in our weakness, we too can share in His exaltation. True power is not in domination but in humble, sacrificial love.

(3) The cross as the path to new life: In the gospel reading, we hear the familiar words: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son.” The cross is the ultimate expression of this love – a vulnerable gift that brings eternal life to all who believe. The exaltation of the cross reminds us that vulnerability and suffering, when embraced with faith, lead to resurrection and new life. We are called to embrace our own crosses, trusting that God transforms our suffering and weakness into opportunities for grace and redemption.

The cross stands as a paradox of strength in vulnerability, victory in suffering, and life in death. It is a reminder that God’s greatest power is revealed in what the world sees as weakness. Through the exaltation of the cross, we are invited to follow this path of humble love, trusting that we too will be lifted up in Christ.

Tuesday of the Fifth week of Lent, April 8, 2025

As we approach Holy Week, this week’s readings begin to draw our attention to three expressions and key images connected to the Passion of Jesus. 

1. The image of God who is reprimanding and disciplining the people of Israel: We are fed up with the continuous images of God, the merciful Father, and compassionate Jesus saving an adulterous woman, but today reminds us the figure of a punishing God. God’s mercy/ judgment are inseparable. 

The people are disgusted with the daily Mannah; the first day it was attractive to the eyes and beautiful to the senses, but they are tired of the daily food, tasteless. They start complaining or murmuring against providence. Now the Lord who saved them from slavery sent serpents. They died. We have a God who is sending the serpents which are the symbols of temptations to teach us the lesson. This is also an important aspect of our education. Otherwise, we don’t learn, God wants the people to enjoy the promised land where honey and milk overflow. The ordination journey should not be a cakewalk, walking on flowers, days must pass through the desert experience, snakebites. 

2. The second key image is the Cross: God shows the compensation, the bronze serpent should be lifted those who see, will get a life. It prefigures the Cross of Jesus. This is the beauty of the love and mercy of God over justice. For the sins of the people, he puts on his own son, died and show to them and give them life. 

In the First Reading: “Those who looked at the serpent did not die.” In the Gospel: “Those who look upon the lifted-up Son will not die.” In the Gospel of John, “seeing” also means believing (cf. John 20:22). For if you do not believe that I AM, you will die in your sins. If you believe that I am you will live. Let every glance at the Cross become for us not just a reminder of suffering but a call to believe, to be healed, and to live in communion with the Father.

3. The third key image is the Pole: The next time you see an ambulance, look for the blue symbol of a snake wrapped around a pole. The staff of Moses, the cross of the priest, Jesus, the eternal priest. God does not want the snake to be an instrument of salvation; he wants Moses to raise it. He wants Moses to intercede with the people. The priesthood is the key we need to make responsible for us, which is not a joke,  

Trusting in God’s Guidance

Saint Teresa of Kolkata, Memorial

1 Corinthians 3:18-23. Luke 5:1-11

We all have our limited experiences – experiences of hitting the wall, reaching the dead end, and touching the bottom of the well. In such circumstances, we are called to look up to God and trust God’s guidance. Today’s readings offer us profound lessons on the importance of trusting God’s guidance over our understanding. They remind us that true wisdom and fulfilment come from following God’s direction, even when it challenges our human reasoning.

1. The Wisdom of God vs. The Wisdom of the World

In the first reading (1 Corinthians 3:18-23), St. Paul warns us not to be deceived by the wisdom of this world. He challenges the Corinthians – and us – to become “fools” in the eyes of the world so that we may be truly wise in God’s eyes. The world often values intelligence, status, and self-reliance, but Paul reminds us that these can be stumbling blocks if they lead us away from trusting in God.

Trusting in God’s guidance means recognizing that His wisdom surpasses our own. It requires humility, acknowledging that our human understanding is limited and that God’s ways are higher than ours. By surrendering our pride and relying on God’s wisdom, we open ourselves to His divine plan, which ultimately leads to true wisdom and life.

2. Obedience Even When It Doesn’t Make Sense

The gospel reading (Luke 5:1-11) illustrates the power of trusting in God’s guidance through the story of Peter and the miraculous catch of fish. After a night of fruitless fishing, Peter is tired and skeptical when Jesus tells him to lower the nets again. Yet, despite his doubts, Peter obeys Jesus’ command and is rewarded with an overwhelming catch.

This passage teaches us that trust in God often requires us to act in faith, even when His instructions seem illogical or contrary to our own experiences. Peter might have thought how come a carpenter order a fisherman! Peter’s obedience, despite his initial hesitation, demonstrates the blessing that comes from trusting in Jesus’ word. We are reminded that God sees beyond our circumstances and knows what is best for us. Our role is to trust and obey, even when it’s difficult or doesn’t make sense.

3. God’s Guidance Leads to Abundance and Mission

Finally, both readings show us that trusting in God’s guidance leads to abundance and a deeper sense of mission. In Luke 5:10, after witnessing the miracle, Peter is called by Jesus to become a “fisher of men.” Peter’s willingness to trust Jesus not only results in a miraculous catch of fish but also in a new calling that will change his life forever.

Similarly, when we trust in God’s guidance, we experience His blessings in ways we might not have imagined. But more than that, we are often called to participate in His work in the world. Trusting in God opens us to His purpose for our lives, leading us to serve Him and others in ways that bring true fulfilment and joy.

Reflection on Mother Teresa

As we consider the theme of trusting in God’s guidance, we can look to the example of St. Teresa of Kolkata, known affectionately as Mother Teresa, whose memory we recall today. Her life was a witness to radical trust in God’s will, even in the face of doubt, hardship, and inner darkness. Despite the challenges she faced, Mother Teresa continued to follow God’s guidance in serving the poorest of the poor, believing that each act of love and service was a response to God’s call. Her legacy teaches us that trusting in God’s guidance often leads us to a life of profound impact, even in the most humble and hidden ways.

I will open your graves and I will put my Spirit

Ezekiel 37: 1-14/ Matthew 22: 34-40

Mediterranean Sea is the sea which starts from the Atlantic Ocean to Asia and Separate Europe from Africa. It has been considered the cradle of world civilization. But in the recent years, This sea is also becoming a graveyard for many refugees and immigrants who were traveling to Europe with the hope of life. Many migrants/refugees who want to travel Europe for the life, become food for the sea animals. UN report says, only one-year 2021, it was estimated that 1,369 migrants died while crossings the Mediterranean Sea. the Pope Francis said Sunday that the recent deaths of 130 migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea marked “a moment of shame." 

Once the pope referred and said: “I confess I am extremely sad over the tragedy that has once again taken place in the Mediterranean. One hundred thirty migrants died in the sea. They are people. They are human beings who begged for help in vain for two whole days -- help that never arrived.”

How the Church and leaders are able to play the role of Ezekiel preaching God’s word to give life to the dried bones.

The burial is the sacred rite for the Jews. The Jewish Cemetery on Mount of Olives is the oldest Jewish Cemetery in the world and has some tombs that are 3,000 years old dating back to the time of King David. There are 150,000 graves in the Jewish cemetery. Many wealthy Jews still ask to be buried in this cemetery, with the hope that at the end of time, on the day of judgment. According to Jewish tradition, the Messiah will come from the Golden Gate they will rise earlier than those who are buried elsewhere.

Such a people experienced undignified burials during the time of Exile. They were not given tombs to be buried. God does not want them to be buried under the earth. He wants to give them life. This time He sends his prophet to prophesy the word of God to them (God does not do directly like the creation of Adam). Here creation takes place in two processes. The first time when Ezekiel prophesies bones came together, bone joining bone, flesh comes upon them, and the skin covers them. but there was no spirit in them.

The love of neighbour is the second commandment that binds our human relationship into the world. It is like a skeleton without spirit. 

Here starts the second process. Prophesying again, the sprit came upon them. They become alive. 

What an analogy?  In exile, Israelites found hope in Prophet Ezekiel’s Word of God. The prophet's visions after the fall of Jerusalem led to the creation of a new Jewish identity.

How do I prophesy like the Prophet Ezekiel? 

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When you go from your country to another foreign country, you face a lot of difficulties like the people of Israel. Today's first reading. the passage of Ez 37 should be understood in the context of the Babylonian Exile. The People of Israel experienced for the first time the Babylonian captivity for 50 years (not like the Egyptian 400). Many people experienced famine, starvation and died. the people were not given a good burial. they were thrown for the animals and birds. 

The burial is the sacred rite for the Jews. The Jewish Cemetery on Mount of Olives is the oldest in the world and has some tombs that are 3,000 years old dating back to the time of King David. There are 150,000 graves in the Jewish cemetery. Many wealthy Jews still ask to be buried in this cemetery, with the hope that at the end of time, on the day of judgment. According to Jewish tradition, the Messiah will come from the Golden Gate they will rise earlier than those who are buried elsewhere.

Such a people experienced undignified burials during the time of Exile. They were not given tombs to be buried. God does not want them to be buried under the earth. God is asking the Prophet to prophesy to the bones and give them hope so that they may not return to the land with the bones alone. How to encourage, console, and inspire them, ask the prophet to prophesy... 

To prophesy in two processes. (God does not do directly like the creation of Adam). Here creation takes place in two processes. The first time when Ezekiel prophesies bones came together, bone joining bone, the flesh comes upon them, and the skin covers them. but there was no spirit in them. Love of God and Love of humanity. 

He who has hope, everything. do not lose hope, if you lose hope, you lose everything, do not think that the prophesy will change the persons, the place and everything. 

God's generosity through the unexpected wages

Ezekiel 34:1-11. Matthew 20:1-16

Today’s Gospel reading presents us with the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. This parable, as told by Jesus, challenges our understanding of justice, fairness, and the boundless generosity of God.

In the story, a landowner goes out early in the morning to hire labourers for his vineyard. He agrees to pay them a denarius for the day’s work—a fair wage. As the day progresses, he goes out again at the third, sixth, ninth, and even eleventh hour, hiring more workers and promising to pay them “whatever is right.” At the end of the day, he pays each worker the same wage, regardless of how many hours they worked. Naturally, those who worked all day grumble, feeling it is unfair that those who worked only one hour receive the same pay.

This parable might resonate with us in a world that values fairness and equal pay for equal work. We are inclined to sympathize with those who laboured longer, thinking they deserve more. But Jesus uses this parable to reveal a deeper truth about the Kingdom of Heaven—God’s ways are not our ways.

God’s Generosity: At the heart of this parable is the extraordinary generosity of God. The landowner in the story represents God, who pours out His love and grace abundantly and freely. Just as the landowner gave equally to all, God offers His mercy, forgiveness, and salvation to everyone, no matter when they come to Him. It is a reminder that we cannot earn God’s grace by our own efforts. The denarius given to the workers is not merely a reward for their labour; it symbolizes the gift of eternal life. Whether we have served God our whole lives or only come to faith later, the reward is the same, eternal union with God.

The Call to Humility: The parable also calls us to humility. The early labourers grumble because they compare themselves to others. How often do we, too, fall into the trap of comparing our lives, our works, our faith, to those of others? This comparison leads to jealousy, resentment, and a sense of entitlement, forgetting that everything we have is a gift from God. God’s Kingdom operates on principles of grace, not human merit. Our worth before God is not based on our accomplishments or the number of hours we have served but on His unmerited love for each of us.

Invitation to Trust in God’s Ways: Finally, this parable invites us to trust in God’s ways, even when they seem mysterious or unfair by human standards. God’s justice is always tempered with mercy. He sees the hearts of all His children and knows their needs. He is more concerned with our salvation than with a strict calculation of our deeds.

In this way, the parable encourages us to rejoice in God’s generosity to others and to recognize that His blessings are not diminished when shared. We should be grateful that God’s love knows no bounds, that He is patient, and that He calls us at every stage of life. God’s Kingdom is not about what we deserve but about what God generously gives. May we open our hearts to receive His grace with gratitude and humility. In God’s vineyard, there is room for everyone, and the reward is eternal life with Him. 

RELIGIOUS PROFESSION

Carmelite Missionary Sisters, June 5, 2023, Perpetual Profession 

Homily on John 15:1–15

Religious Life as a Garden

John chapter 15, offers us one of the most beautiful images Jesus ever used to describe the life of discipleship: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-grower.” Today, on this joyful day of religious profession, this image speaks to us in a very concrete way.

Recently, I read an article by Sr. Mary, a Franciscan Missionary of Mary with long missionary experience in Peru. She described religious life as a beautiful garden that helps us to grow and bloom. This image resonates deeply with today’s Gospel and with the experience of consecrated life itself. A congregation is indeed like a garden: rich, diverse, living, and always in need of care.

The Carmelite family is such a garden. In the history of the Church, saints are often associated with flowers, and Carmel has given the Church many beautiful ones: Saint Teresa of Avila, Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, Saint John of the Cross, and many others. Today, dear sisters, we pray that one day you too will become flowers in this garden—each with your own color, fragrance, and season.

Let me reflect with you on three understandings of religious life as a garden.

1. God the Father is the Good Gardener

A garden does not grow by itself. It needs a gardener. We may see many gardeners working in our institutions, but Jesus is clear: the true gardener is God the Father. Even formators and superiors—despite their dedication—are not the ultimate gardeners. God alone truly knows the soil of your heart.

A good gardener knows when to plant, how to water, how to protect, and when to wait. God knows what kind of garden you are meant to be, because He knows you better than you know yourselves. As the prophet reminds us, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.” Your vocation, your charism, is first God’s gift before it is your response.

Therefore, dear sisters, give yourselves fully to the hands of this Gardener. Allow Him to form you. Stay connected with Him through regular times of prayer—moments of being alone with the One whom you know loves you. Trust Him enough to surrender yourselves, as your founder said, “wherever the glory of God calls me.”

But remember: the gardener also prunes. Jesus tells us that every branch that bears fruit is pruned so that it may bear more. Pruning is not punishment; it is care. It can be painful, but it is necessary. Formation, community life, obedience, and even disappointments are all part of this loving pruning. Be ready to be formed, transformed, and purified.

2. Jesus Christ is the True Vine

Jesus does not say, “I am one vine among many.” He says, “I am the true vine.” Without Him, there is no life.

Think of the passion fruit vine, well known in Vietnam. It cannot grow upright by itself; it needs support. In the same way, religious life cannot be lived as an isolated or self-sufficient project. “No branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine.”

Your vocation is fundamentally a relationship—a friendly, spousal, and loving relationship with Christ. This relationship is nourished by concrete means: the Word of God, which becomes your daily bread; the Eucharist, the sign of your spousal union with Christ; and Marian devotion, which teaches you how to remain faithful and trusting.

Jesus says clearly, “Apart from me, you can do nothing.” If you wish to remain faithful Carmelites throughout your life, stay rooted in Him. Resist the temptation to grow as independent plants. You grow only by remaining in Christ.

3. Each Plant Is Called to Bear Fruit

Finally, every plant in the garden has a purpose: to bear flowers or fruit. Flowers give beauty; fruits give nourishment. After your profession, you will be sent on mission—to education, healthcare, social and pastoral ministry, spirituality, and missionary service. You will give to others what you yourselves receive today: the life of Christ.

Your founder emphasized love for the Church, saying, “I will live for the Church, and I will die for her.” We walk with the Church—not ahead of the people, not behind them, but at their side. This requires communion, patience, and respect for differences.

Not all plants grow at the same pace. Some bloom quickly; others take years. In India, the Kurinji flower blooms only once every twelve years. Each of you is different, and each is precious. The gardener waits patiently, as in the parable of the fig tree, giving time, care, and nourishment.

Pope Francis often reminds consecrated persons of a difficult reality: many leave religious life today. This is not to discourage you, but to invite you to realism. Crises of faith, community tensions, and cultural pressures are real. If the world is strong, your faith must be stronger. Stay together. Live communion. Support one another. As your founder desired, be “one heart, animated by one and the same spirit.”

Before concluding, we turn with gratitude to the parents and families. You were the first gardeners. You watered these young lives with love, faith, sacrifice, and example. Today, you offer them to the Carmelite family, trusting that God will continue what you began. For this gift, the Church thanks you.

Dear sisters, may your lives be holy and fruitful in this garden of Carmel. May you grow, bloom, and bear fruit for God, for the Church, and for the poor.

May the Good Gardener bless you and keep you.

PARABLE OF TEN VIRGINS (MATTHEW 25:1-13), Charitas Sisters of Jesus, February 2021

Homily on the Parable of the Ten Virgins

The Gospel parable of the ten virgins offers us a powerful and demanding image for a day of religious consecration. In many Gospel passages, Jesus tells us that He will come like a thief in the night. Yet here, He chooses a far more tender and beautiful image: the Bridegroom.

This image belongs to the very heart of biblical revelation. Throughout Scripture, God describes His relationship with His people in spousal terms. He presents Himself as the faithful husband, and Israel as the beloved bride. Through the prophet Jeremiah, the Lord says: “I remember the devotion of your youth, how you loved me as a bride and followed me in the wilderness.”

This is not a distant or functional relationship; it is intimate, personal, and loving.

1. Jesus, the Bridegroom of Your Heart

Dear sisters, the first invitation I place before you today is this: look honestly into your own hearts. Ask yourselves: What do I truly desire? Who is God for me? Who is Jesus for me?

Do not be satisfied with answers borrowed from others. Faith and vocation cannot remain second-hand. Religious life demands a personal discovery of Christ. Only when you allow your deepest desires to surface will you recognize that Jesus alone is capable of fulfilling them. He is not simply one value among many; He is the Bridegroom of your life, the One who gives meaning to everything else.

Consecrated life is not primarily about renunciation; it is about choosing the One who satisfies the deepest longings of the human heart.

2. Prepare Your Oil: Consecration Is Personal

In the parable, everything depends on oil. In Scripture, oil is always a sign of consecration. Priests were anointed with oil as a sign that they belonged totally to God. The Book of Exodus tells us: “You shall take the anointing oil and pour it on his head and anoint him.” And in Leviticus, we read that Moses anointed Aaron to consecrate him.

Your vocation, dear sisters, is such an anointing. It is a gift, not a possession. It is personal and irreplaceable. This is why the wise virgins could not share their oil—not because they lacked charity, but because no one can live your vocation in your place.

The time of aspirancy and formation is precisely this: a time to receive, protect, and deepen your own oil. You cannot borrow faith, conviction, or commitment from others. Each of you must prepare your own heart, because God calls you by name.

3. Knocking at the Door of Religious Life

In the Gospel of John, the first disciples ask Jesus a simple but profound question: “Where do you live?” Jesus answers, “Come and see.” This is exactly what you are doing now. You are knocking at the door of the Charitas Sisters, peeping inside, asking yourselves whether this is the place where the Lord invites you to dwell with Him.

At this stage, I offer you another question for reflection: What do you see around you—and within you?

If Jesus were standing physically among us today, what would He say to you?

Perhaps he would begin by acknowledging the reality of our time. Society has changed rapidly, especially in recent years. You are young, formed in faith, yet called to live that faith in a world very different from that of your parents or predecessors. Jesus would assure you: “I will be near you. I will give strength to your desire to respond to the wounds of today’s world.”

Pray that Jesus may lend you His eyes, so that you can truly see the needs of society. Ask yourselves: What are the most urgent needs of humanity today, so that the Gospel values may become real and visible? In answering this question, you will discover your personal vocation—a response both to Jesus and to humanity.

Journeying Together

Finally, remember this: you do not begin your mission from nothing, and you do not walk alone. You are entering a community. The Charitas family is here to accompany you, to help you live with joy, courage, and perseverance in your desire to follow Christ and to serve the world.

Dear sisters, keep your lamps burning. Guard your oil. Listen for the voice of the Bridegroom. And when He comes, may He find you ready.

Have a blessed and faithful journey.

(Fr. David Anbu SdC, the delegate Superior, in his homily on Perpetual profession)

My dear friends in Christ, today is a day of great joy! We gather to witness a profound act of faith and love as our dear Brother Harry is going to make his perpetual profession. This is not just a personal achievement — it’s a gift of God’s grace, a sign of His faithfulness, and a brave 'yes' to His call."

In a world where many seek success, wealth, and comfort, power and titles. Our brother has chosen a different path—a radical one. He is saying “yes” to a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. To some, this may seem like a waste or foolish. But in the eyes of faith, it is the greatest wisdom.

1. "Sayang" or Sagrado?

Filipinos often say, "Sayang naman!" (What a waste!) when a bright young man enters religious life. “He could have been a doctor, an engineer, a businessman.” But is it truly a waste?

What is truly sayang — a life chasing only Personal success alone, or a life offered to serve God and others? The world measures success by titles, wealth, and achievements. But God measures it by love, sacrifice, and faithfulness. A life given to God, a life lived for others, is never wasted. It is Sagrado — sacred.

Brother Harry, the world may say "Sayang," but today, heaven says "Salamat!" Thank you for giving your life to God. Your vocation is not a loss; it is a sacred gift.

A Life Built on Love: Filipinos are known for utang na loob—a deep sense of gratitude and loyalty. We feel indebted to those who love us. Brother Harry has experienced the overwhelming love of God, and this is his way of responding. He is giving his whole life as an act of utang na loob—not out of obligation, but out of love.

The Vows: A Radical Witness

Dear Bro. N, The vows you are about to make are countercultural, meaning they go against the values of the world. They challenge societal norms and serve as a powerful witness to a different way of living. By embracing them, you become a sign of contradiction-choosing faith over comfort, service over self-interest, and commitment over temporary satisfaction. Your vows are not just personal promises; they are a prophetic message to the world, proclaiming that true fulfillment comes from God, not from material success or fleeting pleasures."

By the vow of poverty, you tell us that God is my treasure. In a materialistic and consumeristic world, you show us that real wealth is not found in money or possessions, but in God alone.

By the vow of chastity, you tell us that God is my deepest love. In a world confused about the meaning of love, you show us that true love is more than romance — it is a total gift of self to God and others.

By the vow of obedience, you tell us that God’s will is my will. In a culture that values personal freedom above all, you show us that real freedom comes from trusting and surrendering to God's loving plan.

That’s a great theme! "Let us be open to God's version and not stick to our own version when God calls us for a ministry."When God calls, He often rewrites our plans. 

1. Peter: From Fisherman to Shepherd of the Church

Peter’s version: A simple fisherman, casting his nets daily, providing for his family.

God’s version: "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19)

Reality check: Peter had to leave behind his trade, face persecution, and even walk on water in faith (Matthew 14:29). Despite his failures, Christ made him the rock of the Church.

• Matthew: From Tax Collector to Gospel Writer
• Matthew’s version: A tax collector, earning wealth, possibly disliked by many but financially secure.
• God’s version: "Follow me." (Matthew 9:9)

Matthew misused his skill with the pen by making false accounts to gain wealth as a tax collector. However, when he was open to God's plan, he used the same skill to write the Gospel."

• Moses: From Shepherd to Leader of a Nation
• Moses’ version: A quiet life in Midian, tending sheep after fleeing Egypt.
• God’s version: "Go, I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people out of Egypt." (Exodus 3:10)

Reality check: Moses argued with God ("I am not eloquent!" – Exodus 4:10), but in the end, he led an entire nation to freedom and spoke with God face to face (Exodus 33:11).

• Jonah: From Running Away to Preaching Repentance
• Jonah’s version: Serve God, but not in Nineveh!
• God’s version: "Go to Nineveh and preach against it." (Jonah 1:2)

Reality check: He tried to escape, ended up in a whale’s belly, and eventually obeyed—leading an entire city to repentance!

• Mary: From Humble Servant to Mother of God
• Mary’s version: A simple, quiet life in Nazareth.
• God’s version: "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will call him Jesus." (Luke 1:31)

Reality check: She risked scandal, hardship, and sorrow, but her "Yes" changed history and eternity.

Conclusion: God's Version is Always Greater

When God calls us, He often asks us to let go of our plans and trust His greater purpose. And when you feel unworthy or uncertain, remember: God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called. When you are open to God's plan in your life, he will bless you more than you could ever imagine.

Dear bro. Harry, ask yourself this question: Am I willing to trust His plan, even when it challenges my expectations?

4. Be a Blessing Wherever You Are Sent

You may be sent to another country as a missionary or asked to serve here in the Philippines. You may be assigned to work in a big or small community. You may be asked to serve the elderly, special children, or become a formator for seminarians. No matter where God places you, be a blessing.

There will be days when you feel abandoned, when your prayers seem unheard, and when it will be difficult to live out your vows. But remember: your vows were not made in comfort — they were made at the foot of the Cross. You are not going to make your vows in a resto-bar, beach resort, Manila Resort World, or a five-star hotel.

I am reminded of my Jesuit retreat preacher, Fr. Selvaraj, who facilitated our retreat before our perpetual profession. I was the one who asked him a simple question: "What is your greatest joy in religious life?" He immediately replied, "I did not leave."

Religious life is not always easy. The struggles are real — loneliness, misunderstanding, spiritual dryness, and even moments of doubt. You may experience slander, calumny, betrayal, humiliation, and pain. But hold firm, my brother. Remember, the Cross is not a sign of defeat; it is the road to glory.

Brother, today, you say "Yes" to God forever. Let it be a "Yes" that endures — in joy and sorrow, in strength and weakness, in certainty and doubt.

The World Needs Another Christ

The World Needs Kindness, Not Just Habits

The world today doesn't need more religious men who just wear a habit on the outside.

It needs men whose hearts are on fire with love for Christ — men who are ready to serve, to love, and to get their hands dirty for others.

The Good Samaritan: What the World Needs

In the story of the Good Samaritan, the man left beaten on the road did not need:

• Someone to preach to him about God,
• Someone to argue about doctrine,
• Someone to tell him what's right or wrong.

He needed:

• Someone to clean his wounds (even if it was messy!),
• Someone to carry him to safety,
• Someone to pay for his care.

He didn’t need a priest./ He didn’t need a preacher./ He needed a kind person. A servant.

And that’s what the wounded world needs today.

Be Clothed with Compassion

The Bible says: "You are the people of God; He loved you and chose you for His own. So then, you must clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." (Colossians 3:12)

• Because this is how the world will see Jesus — through our love and kindness.
• Jesus Walked Among the Broken
• Jesus didn’t stay inside the synagogue or in comfortable places.

He walked among sinners, He healed the sick, He forgave the lost, He served the broken. Your vocation — whether as a priest, a brother, a sister, or a layperson — is not to escape the world, but to bring Jesus into the world.

6. A Challenge for All of Us

Brother [Name] is giving his life completely to God. But what about us? Are we willing to give God even a part of our lives?

Parents, do you support your children if they feel called to religious life?

Young people, do you have the courage to ask, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”

The Greatest Yes: Brother [Name], today, you say your final “yes” to God. This yes is forever. It is a yes that will have struggles, but also deep joy. It is a yes that will demand sacrifice, but will also bring fulfillment.

May your life be a witness to all of us—that nothing is wasted when given to God.