Del pastor

Today’s readings should inspire the Christian steward with deepened gratitude for our God, who loves us with both fierce and tender love. We must make an intentional response each day, returning love for Love. In our Second Reading from Romans, St. Paul reminds us that nothing and no one can separate us from the love of Christ. No anguish, distress, persecution, famine — and we might add illness, financial hardship, family struggles, or uncertainty about the future — nothing can keep our God from loving us. God holds us securely in the palm of His hand. And yet, this reassurance is only the beginning of God’s gifts to us. Our Gospel from Matthew recounts the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fish. This miracle foreshadows the gift of the Eucharist, where Christ feeds us not simply with bread, but with His own Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. Notice how the Gospel begins. "His heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick." What generous and compassionate love our Lord shows. But even that is not enough for Him. He remains with the people, teaching and ministering to them until evening. When the disciples suggest sending the crowds away to find food, Jesus instead invites them to become part of His plan. He tells them to feed the people, then miraculously multiplies the few loaves and fish they offer. What a privilege it was for the disciples to participate in Christ's work. That same privilege is ours as Christian stewards. Let us respond with grateful hearts to such amazing love. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants,

The stewardship way of life could be described as a daily pursuit of the Kingdom of Heaven. In today’s Gospel from Matthew, Jesus uses a series of parables to help us understand the incomparable value of that Kingdom. First, He reminds us that living for Him and for His Kingdom will require sacrifice. Yet the joy that comes from following Christ makes any sacrifice worthwhile. Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” He then compares the Kingdom to “a merchant searching for fine pearls." When the merchant finds a pearl of great price, he gladly sells everything he has to obtain it. In both parables, the Kingdom is something precious that must be sought and recognized. We must intentionally look for it amid the distractions and noise of the world. Yet Jesus also reminds us that the Kingdom is meant for everyone. He compares it to a net cast into the sea that gathers fish of every kind. At the same time, He reminds us that each of us will one day be judged. The angels “will separate the wicked from the righteous.” It is a powerful reminder that our choices matter. Let us pray for the wisdom to recognize the Kingdom of Heaven in our midst and to pursue it above all else. There is no greater treasure, and no greater source of joy, than a life lived as a faithful disciple of Jesus. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026. Pastoral Pondering I enjoy books generally. I like to hold them, look at them and, of course, read them. I also enjoy audiobooks because they are a good way to pass the time with all the driving that I do. I like a wide variety of books, but I generally try to avoid things that are strictly political. Hence, I was a little hesitant when the book Communion by J.D. Vance was recommended to me. However, what I discovered is that it is an excellent read and has nothing to do with politics. Rather, it is the story of the Vice President’s return to the Christian faith that eventually resulted in his becoming Catholic. I suppose “conversion” stories attract me because of my own background. And while I did not grow up in Ohio coal country as he did, there are many similarities to his family, described in Hillbilly Elegy, and my dad’s family from the mountains of North Carolina. This particular book, in some ways, is a sequel to Hillbilly . It discusses his chaotic childhood and exposure to Baptist and Pentecostal churches, his drift into atheism as a young adult, following the death of his grandmother, and his gradual return to faith which culminated in his conversion to Catholicism in 2019. The title refers to the Eucharist, and the author explores what it means to be Christian across life stages – as a child, young man, husband, father and public figure – while reflecting on the role of religion in public life and American society.  This memoir mixes spiritual autobiography with broader commentary on faith, politics, family values, and societal problems. While some have criticized it as more of a cultural manifesto, I appreciated the honest assessment of one man’s journey from his childhood faith to an adult faith which led to full communion with the Catholic Church. Granted, it may not be to everyone’s liking, but it shouldn’t be dismissed simply because the author is the current Vice President. I enjoyed it, and if you want something to pass a lazy summer afternoon, I’d recommend it.

Today’s Gospel passage from Matthew contains several parables that offer both challenge and encouragement to the Christian steward as Jesus describes the Kingdom of Heaven and our role in helping to build it. First, He compares the Kingdom to a field where both wheat and weeds grow together until the harvest. Only then are they separated — the wheat gathered into the sower’s barn and the weeds destroyed. It is a sobering reminder that our choices matter and that God, in His justice, will one day call each of us to account for how we have lived and used the gifts He has entrusted to us. But Jesus also offers great encouragement. He compares the Kingdom to a mustard seed, the smallest of seeds, which grows into a large plant. He also compares it to a small amount of yeast that quietly transforms an entire batch of dough. These images are especially consoling for Christian stewards. So often, the prayers we pray, the service we offer, and the gifts we share can seem small compared to the needs around us. Yet Jesus reminds us that God works powerfully through even the smallest acts of faithfulness. God sees and treasures our offerings of time, talent, and treasure. When placed in His hands, they can bear far more fruit than we could ever imagine. In gratitude for all He has given us, let us remain faithful to the mission entrusted to our care for the building of His Kingdom. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026. Pastoral Pondering The Catholic Church teaches that lying is always wrong and intrinsically evil, as it offends against the truth, which is rooted in the nature of God Himself (who is Truth, cf. John 14:6). This is a consistent teaching drawn from Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium, particularly articulated in the *Catechism of the Catholic Church* (CCC). Official Definition from the Catechism CCC 2482: “A lie consists in speaking a falsehood with the intention of deceiving.” (Quoting St. Augustine.) CCC 2483: “Lying is the most direct offense against the truth. To lie is to speak or act against the truth in order to lead someone into error. By injuring man’s relation to truth and to his neighbor, a lie offends against the fundamental relation of man and of his word to the Lord.” Lying profanes speech, whose natural purpose is to communicate truth. It is condemned by its very nature (CCC 2485), and no good intention or end can justify it—evil may not be done so that good may come of it. Gravity of Lies The seriousness of a lie varies: It is measured by the nature of the truth deformed, the circumstances, the intentions of the liar, and the harm caused to victims (CCC 2484). A lie can be venial or mortal sin. It becomes mortal if it gravely injures justice or charity (e.g., false witness in court, lies causing significant harm, or deception with potentially deadly consequences). Biblical and Theological Roots Scripture strongly condemns lying: e.g., the Eighth Commandment (“You shall not bear false witness,” Exodus 20:16), Psalms 5:6, Proverbs 12:22, and Jesus calling the devil “a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). Church Fathers like St. Augustine wrote extensively against lying (even “white lies” or lies to save a life), and this has been the dominant tradition, upheld by St. Thomas Aquinas and the Magisterium. While some historical discussions exist (e.g., distinctions between injurious, officious, or jocose lies), the Church holds that lying is always contrary to the virtue of truthfulness. Common Questions and Nuances “White lies” or lies to spare feelings? Still wrong, though lesser in gravity if they cause little harm. Better to use prudence, silence, or evasive but truthful speech. Lying to save a life (e.g., Nazis at the door)? The Church’s teaching is that lying remains sinful; alternatives like mental reservation, broad statements, or silence are preferred where possible. The good end does not justify the means. Mental reservation or broad mental reservation: In some moral theology traditions, one may use ambiguous speech that is true in a certain sense (e.g., when the listener has no right to the truth), but this must not cross into actual falsehood. The Catechism’s emphasis is on communicating truth. Jokes or fiction: Obvious jokes or storytelling (where no one is expected to take it as literal truth) are generally not lies.  Practical Pastoral Advice Christians are called to be people of truth, reflecting Christ. Repentance, confession, and striving for veracity build trust and communion.

In today’s Gospel from Matthew, Jesus shares the familiar Parable of the Sower. It is a powerful image for the stewardship way of life, demonstrating the gradual but transformative effect that a life centered on God can have on us over time. In the parable, some seed falls on a path where birds quickly carry it away. Other seed falls on rocky ground, where it begins to grow but cannot develop deep roots. Still more seed falls among thorns that eventually choke the young plants. Finally, some seed falls on rich, fertile soil and produces an abundant harvest. Jesus explains that the seed is the Word of God, generously scattered for all to receive. The question is whether our hearts are prepared to receive it and allow it to take root. This is where the stewardship way of life comes in. When we offer our time, talent, and treasure to God and place Him first in our lives, we help create the “good soil” needed for the Kingdom to flourish within us. Stewardship removes the “rocks” of mistrust as we grow in confidence that God will provide for our needs. It clears away the “thorns” of worldly concerns that can distract us from what matters most. Through prayer, the sacraments, and generous service, the soil of our lives is continually nourished and renewed. Let us deepen our commitment to this way of life, allowing the Divine Sower to do His work within us. In time, He will produce an abundant harvest through our lives. ©Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026. Pastoral Pondering A Pastoral Reflection on the Earthquakes in Venezuela Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, In these days, our hearts are heavy as we learn of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026. Two powerful tremors, measuring approximately 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, have caused great loss of life, injured thousands, and left many families homeless and grieving. As your pastor, I invite you to join me in prayer for all those affected— the deceased, the injured, the missing, and those working tirelessly in rescue and relief efforts. May the Lord grant them strength and comfort in this time of trial. The Catholic Church offers us clear guidance on how to understand such natural disasters. They are not punishments from God directed at specific sins or peoples. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, our world is “in a state of journeying” toward its ultimate perfection (CCC 310). In God’s wise plan, creation includes both life-giving and destructive forces of nature—such as the shifting of tectonic plates that cause earthquakes. Physical evils like these remind us of the disorder introduced into the world by Original Sin, yet they are not direct divine judgments. Jesus Himself rejected such thinking when asked about tragedies in His time (see Luke 13:1-5 and John 9:1-3). Instead, these events humble us, turn our eyes from fleeting earthly goods toward heaven, and call forth the best in us: compassion, solidarity, and trust in God’s providence. Our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has expressed his deep closeness to the Venezuelan people. He has offered prayers for the victims and their families, entrusted the rescuers to the Lord, and sent an initial emergency donation of €100,000 to support relief efforts through the local Church. He urges the international community to respond with generous solidarity. In moments like this, we remember that creation itself “groans” in labor pains as it awaits full redemption (Romans 8:22). Yet we are not without hope. God does not abandon His children. He is present in the suffering Christ who walks with us, and He brings good even from tragedy—through heroic acts of charity, stronger communities, and hearts turned more fully toward Him. What can we do here at St. Mark’s? - Pray: Offer Masses, Rosaries, or personal prayers for Venezuela. Consider a special intention at weekend Masses. - Help: Support reliable Catholic relief organizations such as Catholic Relief Services (CRS) or efforts coordinated by our Diocese of Charlotte. Even small donations can provide food, shelter, and medical aid. - Reflect: Use this as an opportunity for personal conversion and gratitude for the blessings we enjoy.  Let us entrust our Venezuelan brothers and sisters to the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Mark, our patron. May the Risen Lord bring healing, peace, and hope to all who suffer. And may we, as one parish family, respond with the love of Christ.

The theme of humility is central to our readings today. God Himself is a humble God, so if we wish to follow Him as Christian stewards, we too, must be humble. In fact, humility is key to the stewardship way of life, and to a peaceful and fulfilling life. In our Gospel passage from Matthew, Jesus Himself speaks to the Father about the privileged role that humble souls play in God’s plan of salvation. “I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to little ones.” What does it mean to be a “little one”? It means that we acknowledge we don’t have it all figured out, but that we are very much in need of a savior. It means we recognize that all we are and all we have been given is a gift from God. It means we embrace the stewardship way of life. It is not easy, but deep peace and consolation come with this way of life. Jesus offers these warm and encouraging words to entice us to embrace them. “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.” Let us resolve to follow in the footsteps of our Savior, embracing the humble path of stewardship. It is the path that leads to peace here and now, and ultimately leads us to heaven. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026. Pastoral Pondering One of the struggles that confessors often have to face is the reality of scrupulosity. It is not something new and has in fact been recognized as a spiritual obstacle throughout the centuries. Hence, I thought a discussion of the issue, albeit brief, would be helpful to those who face it or know someone who does.  Scrupulosity is a condition in which a person experiences excessive, persistent anxiety and doubt about sin, often seeing mortal sin where there is none or obsessing over past faults that have already been forgiven. It is sometimes described as a religious form of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and can cause great spiritual distress, frequent confessions, and difficulty trusting in God’s mercy. The Church has long recognized scrupulosity as a heavy cross, not a sign of weak faith but a challenge that even great saints like St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Alphonsus Liguori faced. The Catholic response emphasizes trust in God’s infinite mercy, the reliability of the sacraments, and obedience to a trusted confessor or spiritual director. Key principles include: once a sin is confessed and absolved, do not revisit it; temptation is not the same as consent or sin; and venial sins are forgiven through ordinary acts of love and the Eucharist. If you struggle with scrupulosity, choose one regular confessor, follow his guidance faithfully, and resist the urge to “priest-hop” for repeated reassurance. Professional help from a therapist familiar with OCD and Catholic teaching can also be a valuable complement. Remember the words of Jesus : “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28). God’s mercy is greater than our fears. If you or someone you know suffers in this way, speak with a priest, seek spiritual direction, and know that you are not alone. Resources such as *Scrupulous Anonymous* (a free newsletter) and books like Fr. Thomas Santa’s *Understanding Scrupulosity* can offer further encouragement. May the Lord grant peace to all who carry this burden.

Today’s readings remind us that following Christ requires commitment. In the Gospel, Jesus calls His disciples to follow Him without hesitation. “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.” The stewardship way of life calls for this same focus. We are invited to give ourselves fully — not halfway, not when it is convenient, but completely. When we place God first, we discover true freedom. As St. Paul reminds us, “For freedom Christ set us free.” Let us respond to God’s call with trust and wholehearted commitment. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026. Pastoral Pondering A regular prayer life is the heartbeat of the Catholic faith—it’s how we cultivate intimacy with God, receive grace for ministry, and model discipleship for those we serve. The Church teaches that prayer is essential for holiness (CCC 2558–2565), and saints like St. Teresa of Ávila and St. John of the Cross emphasize perseverance in it as the path to union with Christ. Here are some of the most effective, time-tested practices that help build and sustain a consistent habit of prayer. 1. Establish a Fixed Daily Rhythm (The Foundation) Morning Offering and Evening Examination: Begin the day with a short Morning Offering (e.g., the traditional one or the one from the Apostleship of Prayer) to consecrate your work, joys, and sufferings. End with an Examen of Conscience (St. Ignatius style: gratitude, review of the day, sorrow for sins, resolution, and a prayer for tomorrow). These bookend the day in 5–10 minutes each and create natural anchors. Liturgy of the Hours (Divine Office ): For priests and religious, this is the official prayer of the Church. It is, however, recommended for everyone. If you want to give it a try, commit to at least Lauds and Vespers daily if full coverage isn’t possible yet. Apps like iBreviary or Universalis make it portable. Many find that praying it in the same chair or chapel spot builds the habit powerfully. Set a “Prayer Appointment”: Treat prayer like a non-negotiable meeting—same time, same place (e.g., 15–30 minutes in the morning before the demands of the parish hit). Consistency beats intensity. 2. Core Devotional Practices Daily Rosary : Our Lady repeatedly asked for this at Fatima and Lourdes. Even a single decade on busy days builds up. Lectio Divina: Sacred reading of Scripture (Gospel of the day + one other passage). Read → Meditate → Pray → Contemplate. 15–20 minutes daily transforms Scripture from intellectual knowledge into lived encounter. Eucharistic Adoration : Schedule a weekly Holy Hour (or even 15–30 minutes). Just being in His presence is transformative—bring your intentions, your family, and your own struggles. Many find this the single biggest sustainer of zeal. 3. Integrate Prayer into Daily Life Short Aspirations and Ejaculatory Prayers : Throughout the day, use simple phrases like “Jesus, I trust in You,” “All for You, Lord,” or the Jesus Prayer (“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”). These turn ordinary moments (stoplights on I-77, waiting for meetings) into prayer. Angelus or Regina Caeli : At noon (and 6 a.m./6 p.m. if possible). It’s brief, Trinitarian, and keeps the Incarnation before your eyes. Grace Before Meals and Family/Staff Prayer : Model it publicly and invite others. 4. Accountability and Growth Tools Spiritual Direction : Is essential for priests and religious but can be a great help to the laity as well. Prayer Journal : Write intentions, insights from Lectio, or graces received. It helps track God’s faithfulness during arid times. Accountability Partner or Small Group : Somebody that you can just touch base with. The Cursillo movement has built in helps for this. Retreats and Pilgrimages : Annual silent retreat + shorter days of recollection. Local options in the Diocese of Charlotte or places like the Abbey of Mary Help of Christians can recharge you. 5. Overcoming Common Obstacles Dryness/Distraction : Accept it as normal (the saints endured it). Persevere with vocal prayer or Scripture when mental prayer feels empty. Offer the struggle itself. Busyness : Start small—add one new practice for 2–3 weeks before layering another. Use driving, walking, or chores as prayer times. Temptation to Skip : Remember St. Josemaría Escrivá’s advice: “The battle is won or lost in the first five minutes of prayer.” Just begin. Recommended Resources Books: Introduction to the Devout Life (St. Francis de Sales)—practical for busy people; The Three Ages of the Interior Life (Fr. Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange); Time for God (Jacques Philippe). Apps: Laudate, iBreviary, the Tan Books app, Hallow (great guided content), or the USCCB daily readings app. Church Teaching: Catechism of the Catholic Church, Part Four on Prayer; documents like Veritatis Splendor or papal writings on the spiritual life. Remember, a faithful prayer life bears fruit in charity, patience, and joy—even when we don’t “feel” it. Many great saints credit their perseverance to these simple, steady habits.

Today’s readings call us to tackle the challenging issues of fear and trust — two concepts that must be confronted and dealt with by all of us who wish to live the stewardship way of life. The Lord knows that facing down our fears and choosing to trust Him with all areas of our lives is an ongoing challenge for us. He is generous with reassurances to us throughout the Scriptures. Today’s Gospel passage from Matthew is a case in point. In the span of eight verses, Jesus addresses the topic of fear four times. • “Fear no one.” • “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” • “Rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body.” • “So do not be afraid.” And the reassurance continues. “Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge. Even all the hairs of your head are counted.” Notice that Jesus says, “your Father” in describing God’s intimate knowledge and tender care for each one of us. He is truly “Abba,” our Dad, Who knows us inside and out. With that, let us all breathe a huge sigh of relief. All is well. Our Father knows us through and through, sent His Son to save us, and will always take care of us. Let’s stop wasting any more time with fear. Instead, let’s put all our energy, all our time, our talents, and our treasure into trusting this great and loving God, using all that we are and all that He has given us to bring Him glory. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026. Pastoral Pondering In a discussion that I was having with some friends recently, the question arose why intercessory prayer was important because God knows everything. In other words, why bother if we can’t really change His mind. It was a good discussion, and I hope the following is a help if you have had that question as well. The question assumes a kind of tension: if God already knows what He will do, why ask? But this frames prayer as if it were a negotiation with a reluctant bureaucrat. That misunderstands both God and prayer entirely. Hence, first point to be made is that the end on intercessory prayer is not to change God – it is to change us and to participate in Him. 1. God Works Through Secondary Causes — Including Your Prayer God is the First Cause of all things, but He has chosen to govern the world through secondary causes — human acts, natural processes, and yes, prayer . The question is not why we pray if God is sovereign, but precisely because He is sovereign — and because He works out His sovereign will frequently through secondary causation. In other words, your prayer is not competing with God's will. In many cases, it is part of God's will — the very instrument through which He has chosen to dispense certain graces. St. Thomas Aquinas puts it plainly in the Summa Theologica: "God bestows many things on us out of His liberality, even without our asking for them: but that He wishes to bestow certain things on us at our asking, is for the sake of our good, namely, that we may acquire confidence in having recourse to God." So some graces are reserved — held by God, waiting for the asking. It is a graced moment from God to be asked to pray for another — a sign of His love that He wants us to participate in His immense work of redemption, making some part of His plan dependent on our prayers. 2. Intercessory Prayer Is an Act of Love — a Spiritual Work of Mercy There are many ways to love one's neighbor, but intercessory prayer — praying on behalf of other people — is one of the most powerful. Praying for the living and the dead is one of the Spiritual Works of Mercy. Through intercessory prayer, we bring someone else's needs before God, trusting God to take care of others, whether they are loved ones, friends, enemies, or total strangers. This is love made active — a concrete participation in the life of the Body of Christ. 3. Prayer Invites Grace Without Violating Freedom Prayer invites God's grace into a situation, which can influence hearts without compelling them. For example, praying for someone's conversion, as St. Monica did for St. Augustine, may lead to a change of heart over time. St. Monica prayed for decades, and her son — who became one of the greatest Doctors of the Church — was the fruit. God never violated Augustine's will. He opened doors. Grace moved. Augustine chose. 4. Scripture Shows God Responds to Intercession The New Testament makes this viscerally concrete: we see the effectiveness of intercessory prayer in Acts, when King Herod had the Apostle James killed, then ordered Peter arrested under heavy guard — but "prayer by the church was fervently being made to God on his behalf," and God sent an angel to release Peter and lead him out of prison. The early Church prayed. Peter walked free. 5. The Deepest End: Union with God Himself The Church teaches that prayer is not just a request for favors but a means of growing closer to God. Intercessory prayer, at its summit, is not primarily about outcomes. It is about conforming the soul to the heart of Christ , who is Himself the eternal Intercessor (cf. Hebrews 7:25). When one intercedes, one enters into the very priestly act of Jesus — standing before the Father on behalf of others. Prayer becomes a way to participate in God's work, not to dictate it. In Summary: The end of intercessory prayer is not to bend God's arm — it is to: Participate in the providential plan God has lovingly prepared Exercise the spiritual authority granted to us as sons and daughters of God Love our neighbor concretely through the most potent force available Grow in humility and dependence on God as the Author of every good Unite ourselves to Christ the eternal High Priest  The God who knows all things from eternity also knew — and willed — that your prayer would be part of the story. That is not a limitation of His omnipotence. It is a staggering expression of His love. St. Monica prayed for seventeen years before her son knelt at the baptismal font. What if she had stopped at year sixteen — reasoning that God's will was already settled?

Today’s readings remind us of the power of God’s mercy and the call to respond to that mercy with gratitude. In the Gospel, we see a powerful contrast between those who recognize their need for God’s mercy and those who do not. The woman who approaches Jesus understands her need — and her response is one of deep love and gratitude. As Christian stewards, we are called to recognize the many ways God has shown us mercy. When we truly understand what we have been given, our response cannot be indifference — it must be gratitude. That gratitude is expressed in the way we live — in how we use our time, talent, and treasure in service to God and others. The more we recognize God’s mercy in our lives, the more generously we will respond. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026. Pastoral Pondering Relaxation, understood not merely as leisure but as a spirit of interior rest in God, holds an important place in the Christian life. Scripture consistently presents rest as a divine gift. From the very beginning, God sanctifies rest in the Sabbath (Genesis 2:2–3), demonstrating that human beings are not meant for endless labor but for a rhythm that includes renewal. This rhythm points beyond physical rest to a deeper spiritual reality: trusting in God’s providence rather than relying solely on one’s own effort. In a culture that often prizes constant activity and productivity, the Christian is called to remember that grace, not strain, is the foundation of a fruitful life. Christ Himself invites His followers into this deeper relaxation of soul: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). This rest is not inactivity, but a state of peace rooted in relationship with Him. It involves letting go of anxiety, fear, and excessive self-reliance. The Christian life, therefore, is not meant to be lived in a constant state of tension or agitation, but in a quiet confidence that God is at work. Relaxation in this sense becomes an act of faith—entrusting one’s cares, responsibilities, and future to the Lord. Moreover, relaxation supports the spiritual virtues by allowing space for prayer, reflection, and attentiveness to God’s presence. Without periods of stillness, the heart can become distracted and spiritually dull. Moments of rest—whether in silent prayer, contemplation, or even restorative recreation—help the believer to hear God more clearly and respond more generously. As Psalm 46:10 teaches, “Be still, and know that I am God.” This stillness is not an escape from life but a way of engaging it more deeply, with a heart anchored in God’s peace.  Finally, healthy relaxation also reflects a balanced and incarnational understanding of the human person. Christians are both body and soul, and caring for one includes caring for the other. Appropriate rest, recreation, and even enjoyment of God’s creation can renew energy for service and prevent burnout in ministry and daily duties. When embraced rightly, relaxation becomes not a distraction from the Christian calling but a support to it—restoring strength, fostering joy, and reminding the believer that all of life ultimately finds its meaning in God. Enjoy the summer!

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity — the central mystery of our faith. Though the Trinity is a profound mystery, it also reveals something very practical for us as Christian stewards. The Trinity is a communion of Persons who give themselves completely to one another. This self-giving love is at the heart of the stewardship way of life. In our Gospel, we hear, “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son.” God gives Himself to us out of love. We are called to respond in the same way — by giving ourselves back to Him and to others. The more we give of ourselves in love, the more we experience “the grace of the Lord, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit” within us. This Triune God invites us into a deeper relationship with Him — one that grows as we live a life of gratitude and self-gift through the stewardship way of life. © Catholic Stewardship Consultants, 2026 Pastoral Pondering In light of the blessing of the ordination of ten new priests for the Diocese of Charlotte and the 34 th anniversary of my own ordination (May 30 th ), I thought it would be good to reflect on the importance of the ministerial priesthood in the life of the Church. The Catholic priesthood (ministerial priesthood) is essential to the Church's life, mission, and sacramental reality. It flows directly from Christ's own priesthood and enables the Church to continue His saving work until the end of time. Rooted in Christ's Priesthood Catholic teaching holds that Jesus Christ is the one eternal High Priest (Hebrews 5:1-10, 7-10). The ministerial priesthood does not replace or compete with His but participates in it in a unique way. Priests are ordained to act in persona Christi Capitis ("in the person of Christ the Head")—especially in the sacraments. This differs essentially (not just in degree) from the common priesthood of all the baptized , by which every Christian offers spiritual sacrifices, lives a holy life, and witnesses to the Gospel (1 Peter 2:5, 9). The ministerial priesthood exists *for the service* of the common priesthood, to build up the Church as the Body of Christ. Key Roles and Importance Priests exercise a threefold ministry (teaching, sanctifying, and governing), called the three Munera, that mirrors Christ's: Sanctifying the People of God : Priests are the ordinary ministers of several sacraments, above all the Eucharist . Through them, Christ's one sacrifice on the Cross is made present in the Mass. Without ordained priests, there would be no valid Eucharist in the Catholic understanding. They also forgive sins in Confession, anoint the sick, baptize (in ordinary circumstances), and celebrate other sacraments. This makes divine grace accessible in a tangible, ecclesial way. Proclaiming the Word : Priests preach the Gospel, teach the faith, and guide consciences. They are "co-workers" with bishops in shepherding the faithful. Governing and Serving : As spiritual fathers, they lead communities, counsel, perform works of mercy, and foster unity. They do this not by their own power but as instruments of Christ. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: "In the ecclesial service of the ordained minister, it is Christ himself who is present to his Church as Head of his Body, Shepherd of his flock, high priest of the redemptive sacrifice, Teacher of Truth." Apostolic succes sion ensures continuity: Bishops ordain priests through the laying on of hands, tracing back to the apostles. This sacramental character is indelible—permanent. Why It Matters to the Church The Church cannot fully be the Church without it in Catholic doctrine. The priesthood guarantees the valid celebration of the Eucharist (the "source and summit" of Christian life) and the other sacraments that nourish faith. It maintains the Church's hierarchical structure for unity and ordered mission. Priests enable the laity's priestly vocation by providing the sacraments and pastoral care that empower everyday Christians to live out their baptismal calling. Historically and theologically, the priesthood fulfills and surpasses the Old Covenant priesthood, making Christ's mediation present across time and place. Vatican II's Presbyterorum Ordinis (Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests) emphasizes that priests are "taken from among men and appointed for men in the things that pertain to God" (Hebrews 5:1). Their celibacy, obedience, and life of prayer are oriented toward total availability for the Gospel and the flock. In short, the Catholic priesthood is not an optional "clergy class" but a divine gift by which Christ continues to shepherd, teach, and sanctify His Church. Catholics believe that through faithful priests, grace flows to the world, making salvation accessible and the Church a living sacrament of Christ's presence.  Let’s thank God for the gift of our newly ordained priests and ask the Lord to continue to send workers into the vineyard.