July 19, 2015

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

On the farm, the animals, crops and weather determine the rhythm of the farm family.  In a hospital, the needs of the sick determine the rhythm of the medical staff. So it is that the needs of our life and those around us, determine how we respond.  In our faith life, Jesus is the one who determines the rhythm of how we work and make known the Gospel.  He also recognizes our need to rest and re-create ourselves if we are to learn and grow in our faith and love of God and His Word.

So today, in the midst of our busy lives, in the middle of a hot summer, we welcome Jesus’ invitation, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” While that is just what our tired, run down batteries may need, we know that Jesus wants us to care of the needs of others around us at the same time.   Let us pray today that we can find a way to rest and be renewed by the Spirit as we also serve those who need are care.

-       Deacon Jim

Mass for the 15th Sunday of Ordinary Time, July 11 & 12, 2015 Fr. Paul McManus is the Celebrant

Enjoy watching the Weekend Mass for Sacred Heart, Oelwein and Immaculate Conception, Fairbank for the 15th Sunday of Ordinary Time.
To watch the video, just click on the picture or the link below:
https://youtu.be/d0ic-v8u2ss

Jesus summoned the 12 and sent them out two by two.

15^th Sunday of Ordinary Time

July 11 & 12

   In today’s Gospel, Jesus summoned the twelve to go out and spread the Gospel.  His directions were a bit harsh for those of us living today, and yet, His message and his calling to service was not meant just for the twelve. It was not just for the priest or any ordained.  It is a call for all of us!  YOU are being called just as I am as an ordained deacon.  So what stands in our way?  For most of us the greatest challenge probably does not come from our possessions, but from our emotions and attitudes.  We do not like being rejected or unpopular.  We would risk failure so it is easier to just live good lives and not be concerned with others.  We may not like pushing our faith to the limits so it is just easier to be more concerned with our lives and less with the lives of those in need.

    The call from Jesus is clear,  “GO…”  The mission is urgent.  We must faithfully go to spread the Gospel and the message of repentance.  Are we strong enough to stand up and answer the call?    - Deacon Jim

Mass at SH & IC for the 4th of July / 14th Sunday of OT

Enjoy watching the Mass for Sacred Heart and Immaculate Conception for the 14th Sunday of OT. July 4th.
To view the Mass, simply click on the URL below:


https://youtu.be/SOAHUExIkhE

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time / "A prophet is without honor in his own country".

July 5

14^th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Have you ever heard, “A prophet is without honor in his own county?”  In other words, you need to be 25 miles from home before anyone will consider you an expert.  Today’s Gospel is the origin of this saying.  Maybe you have experienced it from time to time.  Rejection is most always discouraging, even if you are fully confident in yourself.  Our Church encounters opposition and rejection in the world even today. Doing what is right is not always comfortable or popular and often not accepted by many. When this happens to us, we can look to Jesus as our model.  His strength and courage in the face of so much rejection is an example to each of us as we stand up for what is right and for our faith.                            - Deacon Jim

Mass from the 13th Sunday of Ordinarly Time / June 27, 2015

Mass from the 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time.  Fr. Wayne Droessler is the celebrant this week.
To view the Mass, simply click on the link below:
https://youtu.be/_Iun4bMD0iI

The Lord Jesus has the power to bring healing to the sick...

June 28, 2015

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

The Lord Jesus has the power to bring healing to the sick and new life to those on the threshold of death.  Whenever you find yourself in need of new life, turn to the Lord Jesus.  His presence will drive out all fear and bring you healing and comfort.  Take to heart the miracles of healing and life we share in today’s Gospel.  May you find the healing you need this day and every day in your future as we journey to the glory of God in Heaven.

-       Deacon Jim