“From every mountainside, let freedom ring.” These words from Samuel Francis Smith’s 1831 hymn America rang throughout our land last week as we attained the ripe old age of 247.  And what better way to party on our birthday than with fireworks, burgers and brats on the grill and a couple of brewskis?  After all, … Continued

Vino Nuevo “For these men are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.” It was quiet – the calm before the holy storm.  Suddenly a sound came from heaven like the rush of a mighty wind and filled the house in which the disciples were gathered on … Continued

“No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the sameman.” Heraclitus, 500 B.C. How many times have you heard people complain about Michigan weather? “Well, wait a fewminutes and it will change!” we say, consoling ourselves by accepting something over which wehave no control. Last … Continued

“Now I Begin!” Say then with boldness, “Now I begin,” and go forward constantly in God’s service. Do not lookback so often, because one who looks back cannot run. And do not be content to begin only forthis year. Begin every day, because it is for every day, even for every hour of the day, … Continued

“Tis the Season to be Hopeful” Last year at this time I was preaching at the all-school Mass during the first week of Advent, explaining to our youngsters how Advent is a two-part season of hope: the First Coming and Second Coming of Christ.  The approach was based on the following text from the Universal … Continued