We are in the Gospel of Matthew today and we hear once again a parable from Jesus, and for the next few weeks we will hear Christ offer more parables to “teach with a twist” as He imparts to us a greater meaning issued by way of a simple story. In this parable, a father who has two sons—and for those old enough to remember, I don’t mean Fred MacMurray—asks both his sons to go into the vineyard and work....

There is a parish-based program designed to bring new life to a Catholic parish and this program is called “Amazing Parish,” but that’s not what I am talking about in this bulletin article. What I am talking about is YOU—the people of Saint Catherine of Siena and your AMAZING GENEROSITY, concern and outreach

“The more things change, the more they stay the same,” and some 2000 years later this truism remains. Today’s gospel message also has a “sting” in it for our American understanding of “Rugged Individualism and Capitalism.” For many believe that the more you work, the more you should earn—whether it be through overtime at our jobs or by way of moving up-the-corporate latter from late nights and weekends spent at the office. That might be fine for the workplace, but in the spiritual world.....CLICK TO READ MORE!

Today’s Gospel speaks to us of (1) forgiveness—both towards others and ourselves, and (2) the need to be sincere when it comes to repentance. For it is in our honest repentance that we can be confident of God’s unending forgiveness. So what does it mean then to forgive not 7 times but 77times--and is it possible? From a theological perspective, we are called to offer forgiveness in the same manner that God forgives us. That is to say, to strive for the way that God acts toward us

Today's gospel (Matthew 18:15-20) speaks to us of rules and process, of forgiveness and reconciliation, which might not seem to connect. Today's world, particularly in the United States, seems to be a very litigious society. People are ready to sue and lay fault at another, perhaps accountability and personal responsibility are a thing of the past? Laws and processes are ever-present, in both civil society and the Church.

I extend these invitations to all parishioners and also to those who have joined us from St Bernard Church--we are happy to encourage you to share your gifts and talents here at St Catherine of Siena.