Dear Parishioners,

In my homily last week I referred to Jesus’ inaugural speech, which in Matthew’s Gospel is quite simple and stark. “Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand”. Beginning this Sunday we will be hearing Jesus’ platform, plan, or program for those who want to follow him and align themselves with God’s imagination for the world. The Sermon on the Mount begins this weekend with the Beatitudes. Everything about Jesus’ preaching and teaching turns the tables on the established criteria for achievement and success. The “poor in spirit”, the humble, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the peacemakers are “blessed” in God’s kingdom. The Sermon on the Mount is an invitation to each of us to pray about our own priorities and how we align ourselves with God’s vision for the world.

It is very clear that the Xavier Mission puts into practice what it means to live the Beatitudes. In its service to the homeless and those whose lives are compromised by the division between rich and poor, the Mission models for all of us how to respond humbly to the needs of our brothers and sisters and how to “hunger and thirst for righteousness” in very practical ways.

In a few weeks the Mission has its major fund-raiser. I understand it’s a fun-filled evening that goes a long way to supporting the critical work of the mission. I hope you will join us for this very special and important event!

Sincerely,

Fr. Bob