Eucharistic Revival

"Hō'eu'eu Eukalikia

 In the Hawaiian language, "Hō'eu'eu" means "to rouse" or "to stir up," and "Eukalikia" is a term referring to the Eucharist, the Christian sacrament of communion. Together, the phrase "Hō'eu'eu Eukalika" can be translated as "To stir up the Eucharist."
In the context of our Hawaii diocesan Eucharistic revival, this phrase serves as a powerful reminder to reawaken our appreciation, understanding, and active participation in the Eucharist. It calls on us to deepen our connection with this sacred sacrament and to share its significance with others."

Catechism Series on Holy Eucharist…

"Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you.  Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day.  For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.  Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him” (Jn. 6:53-55).

Amidst the myriad of dietary options, the world offers, often leading to a whirlwind of conflicting advice, there is a unique and transformative diet that Jesus offers. This divine sustenance, unlike the fluctuating dietary trends, nourishes not just our bodies but our souls (cf. Jn 6:53). It offers a profound contrast to the chaotic pursuit of physical well-being, standing out as a beacon of spiritual nourishment.

Jesus' invitation to consume His flesh and drink His blood for eternal life, a reality we experience through the Holy Eucharist, is a catalyst for transformation. This divine sustenance, unlike any earthly food, invites us into an intimate relationship with the Lord, focusing not on physical appearance but on our spiritual growth into His likeness (cf. Rom. 8:29).

Participating in the Holy Eucharist is a pathway to a deeper connection and union with God. Through this divine nourishment, we embrace a perspective centered on love, generosity, and peace. While earthly food may temporarily fuel our bodies, the Body and Blood of Christ's promise of eternal life instills a profound sense of hope and reassurance in our faith, comforting us in the knowledge of our ultimate destination (cf. Jn 6:54).

Let us joyfully and eagerly partake in this heavenly feast, allowing it to enrich and sustain us on our spiritual journey towards heaven. It's a celebration of our faith, a source of excitement and enthusiasm as we partake in the Holy Eucharist. (MAH)

Let us enrich our faith using the stories of the Bible.  Come join the SPIRITUAL CONFERENCES SERIES, a unique and privileged opportunity to deepen your faith and understanding of the Bible, with the theme "Master, to whom shall we go?  You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68).  The series will consist of five sessions, each lasting one and a half hours, and will include prayer, lectio divina, Bible study, reflections, and discussions.

Immerse yourself in the mysteries of faith revealed in the Sacred Scriptures at the SPIRITUAL CONFERENCES SERIES.  This profound experience can transform your understanding and actions.  The Scriptures, with their transformative power, can guide us in knowing the Lord more clearly, loving him more dearly, and following him more closely. Jesus is our way, truth, and life, and there is no other. There could be no going without him, no knowing without his truth, and no living without his life. Jesus is the wisdom for our journey.

To register for the conference, simply sign your name on the sign-up form provided at the church's entrance.  We look forward to your participation in this enriching spiritual journey. Below is the first of the five topics for the Spiritual Conference Series:

           THE ANNUNCIATION:  “Behold the handmaid of the Lord!” (Luke 1:26-39)

            Date: September 6, 2024 @ 6:00 PM

            Venue: Pastoral Center

          GRACE TO ASK:

           Grant us the docility of the Blessed Virgin Mary as we ponder the mystery of God’s offer of salvation.

          REMOTE PREPARATION:  Read Luke 1:26-39

           Imagine an angel in a human or symbolic form greeting Mary.

In our fast-paced, hyper-connected world, silence has become a rare commodity. The constant noise of conversations, notifications, and mundane chatter has transformed even the most sacred spaces of the church into distraction areas.

One poignant example is the moments leading up to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. What should be a profound period of reflection and preparation often morphs into a cacophony of voices. However, if we recognize the transformative power of silence, we can use these moments to prepare ourselves for the great mystery of the Holy Mass.

Silence is not just a lack of noise but a sacred threshold that invites us to transition from the world's distractions to the presence of God. In these quiet moments, we prepare ourselves to encounter the profound gift of Jesus through the Holy Eucharist. When we embrace silence, we create an atmosphere where we can truly listen—to God, ourselves, and the heartbeat of our faith community. This listening is not just beneficial; it's essential; it allows us to absorb the deeply transformative messages of the Word of God and gives them space to resonate within us. In a world that constantly demands our attention, a few intentional moments of silence can refocus our hearts toward heaven.

While fraternity and camaraderie are beautiful aspects of our parish life, our primary purpose for gathering must center around our encounter with Jesus. This encounter infuses our relationships with depth and meaning. By embracing silence, we honor the mystery we are celebrating and open our hearts to the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let us actively strive to foster silence, particularly in our observance of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. It could begin with arriving a few minutes early, taking a deep breath, and immersing ourselves in the peace of the church. In doing so, we can reclaim the sanctity of our sacred place, prioritizing our relationship with God over the noise of trivial conversations. By rediscovering and cherishing silence, our encounters with Jesus become more profound, transforming our gatherings into sacred experiences. So let us not just understand the value of silence but actively embrace it, for in that stillness, by the grace of God, we discover the echoes of grace and the depths of our communion with the Lord. (MAH)

We all deeply understand the transformative power of the Lord's Prayer in our Christian faith. This prayer, introduced by the priest during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, saying: "At the Savior's command and formed by the divine teaching, we dare to say" tells us its value because it proceeds from Jesus' series of instructions —teachings on Beatitudes, love of enemies, to pray for those who persecute, almsgiving and fasting, to pray in a closed door and the Heavenly Father's reward. To “dare” is to have the audacity to pray. It's not just a simple recitation but a courageous act of faith that has the power to transform our lives. 

The Lord's Prayer is not a random collection of requests but a structured guide to our prayers. It contains seven petitions to God the Father, the first three of which are centered on God and His glory, drawing us towards Him. The last four petitions present our needs and expectations of God the Father, asking for sustenance, forgiveness, and protection from temptation and evil.

While we are all familiar with the words of the Lord's Prayer, it remains a profound challenge for us to truly live them out:

• To indeed allow God to be the sovereign ruler of our lives

• Living our life doing his will

• Aligning our lifestyle according to God's Kingdom

• Total trust in God's providence

• To be forgiving as God is

• To be dependent on God's power rather than oneself

The Lord's Prayer is a call to action, following the ways of Jesus, a journey of faith and obedience.

It's crucial that we regularly pause and self-examine how the Lord's Prayer is being translated into our lives. This self-examination is not just a task, but a responsibility that we must undertake to foster our spiritual growth. It's a call to action, a journey of faith and obedience that we must actively engage in. (MAH)

At present, one of the spiritual and mental challenges we face is acedia, a term derived from the Greek word for "a lack of care." Acedia is more than just spiritual and mental sloth or apathy; it's a loss of taste for God. This loss leads to a decline in the appreciation of the Holy Sacraments, virtues, and holiness. It's a discernible sign of losing the sense of God's presence, specifically the Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist.

But God can turn 'acedia' into an opportunity. Acedia, characterized by a lack of care or a loss of taste for God, can paradoxically lead to a desire for the infinite, ultimately a desire for God. We are always dissatisfied with our insatiable thirst for more. The premise or motto “satisfaction guarantee” is deceiving. It is an untruthful promise because there is an appetite for more. When directed towards God, this longing for more can be a powerful force for spiritual growth. 

It's a constant thirst, a longing for more of God's intimate presence. As the song lyrics beautifully express, "There is a longing in our hearts, O Lord, for you to reveal yourself to us. There is a longing in our hearts for love we only found in you, our God." This longing is a shared experience, always met by God's unwavering, continuous presence, connecting us spiritually through the Holy Spirit.

I remember a story of a nurse working at a particular hospital in the Philippines about how the Holy Eucharist fed and sustained her. Aside from her regular job at the hospital, she did person-to-person selling personal staff. She worked two jobs to bring food for her family and support her two siblings, who are still finishing their college degrees. She said that to save money, she won't eat lunch but will spend her lunch break attending the noon celebration of Holy Mass. She said that the Eucharist feeds her. She regularly spent her break time inside the chapel to pray and sleep awhile. Her dedication to her faith and the Eucharist's role in sustaining her during challenging times is a testament to the transformative power of God's continuous presence.

God's grace is abundantly poured upon us through the Holy Eucharist, transforming our lives and filling us with His divine presence. Our relationship with him is a perpetual journey, a fire of love that never extinguishes. (MAH)

It's beautiful to hear our brothers and sisters from other Christian denominations joyfully confessing their personal relationship with Jesus. But let's ponder: What could be more intimate and personal than our individual communion with the risen Lord, the fullness of His humanity and divinity, in the Holy Eucharist? What could be more personal than this unique connection with His Body and Blood, a bond that makes us feel deeply loved and cherished? 

This relationship is not just a confession in words but a profound gift from Jesus Himself, who said, "This is my Body, this is my Blood; eat and drink" (cf. Mat 26:26-28; Mk 14:22-24). When we accept His offer in faith without stumbling blocks, our entire being becomes His, and He resides within us, transforming us and filling us with hope. 

Before the Blessed Sacrament, we bow profoundly. When the ciborium, containing the presence of the Lord, passes before us, we bow reverently. This is what I call ritual reverence, a meaningful gesture. But this reverence should not end there. Remember, we have already received Jesus after the Holy Communion, so our bodies now contain His presence. This calls for reverence, not because we now possess the presence of Jesus, but because we now belong to His presence. This belonging should be reflected in our actions and attitudes towards others. (MAH)

The Church urges us to 'pray unceasingly,' a call that holds immense significance in deepening our relationship with God and seeking His guidance and blessings (cf. 1 Thess. 5:16-17). This call to prayer is not just a duty but a privilege, a sacred honor that the Church bestows upon us through the public and private worship of bishops, priests, religious, deacons, and the laity. Together, we pray for the common good, strengthening our bond with each other and God (cf. 1 Thess. 5:23-25).

The highest form of worship where the Church offers prayer to the Father is the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, the source and summit of our Christian life. During the Mass, the priest, "in persona Christi," offers prayers and sacrifices on behalf of the faithful.  This spiritual connection with Christ, our Savior, and the prayers offered for the entire Church make Mass intentions profound offerings to the altar of the Lord. These intentions can be for various reasons, such as the remembrance of a departed loved one, for the health and well-being of a friend or family member, or a specific intention, such as a birthday or anniversary.

To offer a Mass intention, you can either schedule it through the parish office or use special envelopes available at the church entrance. When using the envelopes, you can write your intention on the envelope and enclose your offering. While ordinarily, as canon law 958 states, no more than one offering or intention for one Mass is allowed, the congregation of Clergy issued a decree on collective intentions in 1991, which permits the practice of taking more than one offering for a single Mass. In our parish, we usually allow five intentions for each Mass to accommodate the many requests from parishioners.

By offering Mass intentions, we not only participate in the Church's prayer life but also receive spiritual benefits. One's monetary intention offering contributes to providing for the temporal needs of the parish in a small way, highlighting our shared responsibility and community spirit within the Church. This act of giving, both spiritually and materially, is a profound expression of our faith and love for God and our community. (MAH)

As you may have observed, our parish's Sunday Holy Mass at 10:30 AM is offered as 'Pro Populo,' a Latin term that translates to 'For the People.' This tradition, rooted in the code of Canon Law that governs the Catholic Church, holds a profound significance. It mandates a parish pastor to conduct one Mass each week for all parishioners, a practice that has been an integral part of the Church and the priesthood for centuries. This tradition is a powerful bond, uniting us in prayer and faith.

The following are from the Code of Canon Law:

•       Can. 534 §1. After a pastor has taken possession of his parish, he is obliged to apply a Mass for the people entrusted to him on each Sunday and holy day of obligation in his diocese. If he is legitimately impeded from this celebration, however, he is to apply it on the same days through another or on other days himself.

•       §2. A pastor who has the care of several parishes is bound to apply only one Mass for the entire people entrusted to him on the days mentioned in §1.

•       §3. A pastor who has not satisfied the obligation mentioned in §§1 and 2 is to apply as soon as possible as many Masses for the people as he has omitted. Every pastor is required to offer the Mass pro populo. For priests who have the care of several parishes, there only needs to be one Mass for all the parishes.

The pastor's intention in offering this Mass could be for the health of parishioners, happy or struggling marriages, deceased parishioners or family members, children in need, the ministries of the parish, or any particular intention. (MAH)

Amen, commonly used in our Christian tradition, holds a profound and weighty meaning beyond simply closing prayers. It's not just a way to say thank you or signify the end of a sacred moment, but rather a powerful declaration of our faith in God's will and a reaffirmation of our belief in His mercy and guidance.

Amen stems from Hebrew origins and can be translated as "truly; it is so, or let it be done," signifying agreement with what has been said (cf. CCC p. 865). Our Lord Jesus often uses Amen to introduce solemn assertions to emphasize their trustworthiness and authority. In the Gospel of John, he says, "Very truly I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life" (John 6:47). Amen is also used by the angels and saints in heaven as they sing their part in the chorus praising God in the heavenly liturgy. With joy, they cried out Amen! (cf. Rev. 5:13-14).

When we utter Amen after receiving a blessing or sacrament like the Holy Eucharist, we are not just concluding a ritual. Essentially, we surrender ourselves to God's will and acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives. When we say Amen, we align our hearts and minds with God's divine purpose and open ourselves to His guidance and direction.

Therefore, the next time you find yourself saying Amen at the end of a prayer or receiving the Holy Eucharist, remember it is not just a formality or a ritual but a powerful declaration of your faith and trust in God. Incorporating this profound understanding of Amen into your daily spiritual practices cannot only deepen your connection with your faith but also transform and enhance your relationship with God. (MAH)

"Where your treasure is, there also where your heart be" (Mt 6:21)

Our hearts belong to heaven, which is our inheritance. It is our treasure, the gift from our Lord Jesus, and the ultimate joy of our hearts. This spiritual treasure can manifest in various forms, such as the love and support of our community, the peace we find in prayer, or the wisdom we gain from studying scripture.

It is worth pondering that we enter this world with nothing at birth. We bring no material possessions, no wealth, no status. We are born as blank slates (cf. 1 Tim 6:7). At death, we leave this world much in the same way. We take nothing with us - no money, possessions, or power. We departed just as we arrived, empty-handed (cf. Ecc. 5:15; Prov 27:24).

Given this reality, it is a wonder that some people often find themselves entangled in conflicts over material things. They quarrel and argue over possessions they did not bring into this world and cannot take with them when they leave.  It is a wonder that some people fight over inheritances, thinking they deserve to benefit from others' hard-earned labor. We envy others who have more than us, coveting their wealth and status. We become consumed with pursuing material goods, believing they will bring us happiness and fulfillment.

Let us not be deceived by the allure of material possessions. They are transient, fleeting, and impermanent. In the grand scheme of things, they hold little value. What truly matters are our relationships, the memories we create, and our impact on the world around us. This impact can be through acts of kindness, sharing our knowledge and wisdom like our Patron, St. Therese, or working towards a more just and compassionate society. Let us focus on these eternal treasures rather than the temporary allure of material wealth and use the material blessings God bestowed on us, such as our physical health, talents and skills, and resources, with intention and love to attend our way to heaven. These are the things that will last long after we are gone. 

"Where your treasure is, there also where your heart be" (Mt 6:21)

Attending the Holy Eucharist regularly is not just a suggestion but a necessity for our spiritual well-being. It is a time when we come together as a community to remember and celebrate the ultimate spiritual treasure- the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus for our salvation. It not only reminds us of the values we hold dear but also serves as a vital source of spiritual nourishment and strength, guiding us through the challenges of life and deepening our relationship with God. In this practice, we find the true essence of our beliefs and the strength to live by them. (MAH)

Repetition is the mother of all learning. This principle is beautifully illustrated in Jesus' teachings regarding the bread of life. By repeatedly claiming to be the bread of life, Jesus instills in his disciples the profound significance of the Eucharist, ensuring that they understand the importance of partaking in his Body and Blood.

• I am the bread of life (Jn 6:48).
• I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread I will give is my Flesh for the life of the world" (Jn 6:51).
• "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you" (Jn. 6:53).
• Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day" (Jn. 6:54).
• "For my Flesh is true food, and my Blood is true drink" (Jn. 6:55).
• "Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood remains in me and I in him" (Jn. 6:56)

The repetitive nature of Jesus' teachings on the bread of life serves as a constant reminder that the Eucharist is not just a mere ritual, but a transformative experience. It is the sustenance that strengthens and enriches our spiritual journey toward eternal life, a journey that Jesus guides us on through his teachings.

Through the Eucharist, Jesus offers himself entirely to us, inviting us into a profound intimacy with him. This communion with Jesus, experienced through the bread of life, not only prepares us for our eternal place but also reveals that our journey to heaven commences in our personal union with Christ here on earth, particularly during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. (MAH)

The Holy Eucharist, with its transformative power, serves as a remedy for the ailments of our family and society. It heals the wounds of alienation, falsehood, disunity, selfishness, corruption, self-referentiality, and all forms of disrespect and abuse. It lights a path of hope and inspiration, illuminating the way toward a better world.

As Presence:

The mystery of incarnation reveals the immense love of God for the world. He gives his only begotten Son, who becomes flesh and dwells among us as Emmanuel, God with us (cf. Jn 3:16, Jn 1:14). This presence is perpetual, as Jesus assured his followers that he would be with them until the end of time (cf. Mat 28:20). He fulfills this promise by offering himself as our sustenance, the truth we comprehend through the Holy Eucharist. 'I am the bread of life' (Jn 6:48). This is Jesus' chosen way, a way that ensures his perpetual presence in our lives.

As Sacrifice:

Jesus, in his boundless love, yearns to be with us until the end of time. His presence is not just 'being there' but 'being there for you.' He bestows himself upon us so that we may live. He sacrifices himself on the cross as a reparation for our sins. This self-sacrifice, foreseen during the Last Supper with his disciples, becomes his perpetual sacrifice that the Church commemorates until he returns through the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. 'This is my Body, receive and eat it. This is my Blood; take and drink from it. Do this in memory of me' (cf. 1 Cor 11:24-25). Jesus did not establish the Holy Eucharist to satisfy the need to be remembered. He established the Holy Eucharist to meet our needs, providing a constant source of reassurance and comfort.

As Communion:

He gives himself as food, inviting us to chew his love, his union with us. 'I am the vine; you are the branches' (Jn. 15:5). He is not just 'being there for you' but 'being with us' in our pains, joys, struggles, and celebrations. He desires that we are with him, as he is in us! He is our life, as we are his breath for others. He is our joy as we are his hands, eyes, and feet for others. He is the love in us as we make it shine in our flesh, words, and deeds. This communion with Jesus through the Holy Eucharist fosters a deep sense of closeness and intimacy, a profound connection that makes us feel truly loved and cherished, inspiring us to reflect his love in our lives. (MAH)

In the Last Supper, Jesus performed four Eucharistic acts that hold deep significance for us Catholic Christians. These acts - take, thanks, break, and give - were done deliberately, in slow motion, allowing each action to be observed, understood, and internalized. Despite knowing his impending death, Jesus did not rush through these acts, highlighting the importance of the process. This deliberate approach reflects God's way of saving humanity. Salvation, like the Eucharistic acts, takes time and cannot be rushed. God's plan for salvation unfolded over time, culminating in the sacrifice of the cross. There are no shortcuts to salvation; it is a process that requires patience and trust in God's timing (cf. Ecc. 3:11, Jer. 29:11).

By partaking in the Eucharist, we are called to internalize the self-giving nature of Jesus' sacrifice and to remember and participate in the act of giving ourselves for the service of others. Just as Jesus did not rush through the Last Supper, we are reminded to be patient and trust in God's timing for our salvation and transformation.

Ponder these Eucharist Words: Take this, all of you, and eat it, for this is my body which will be given up for you; take this all of you and drink from it, this is the cup of my blood, the blood of the new and everlasting covenant. Do this in memory of me.

Eat it. Drink from it. Internalize it. Make it part of you. Make it part of your body; make it part of your system. When we eat the Body and drink the Blood of Christ, we are not the ones changing him. He is the one changing us. We eat and drink the self-giving, the self-donation of servanthood.

"Do this in memory of me." He did not say, psychologically imagine it, nor remember it only in the liturgy. He says, do it! Do it in remembrance of me. Give your body; give your blood; give yourself! You will live with me by dying to your pride and selfishness for the love of God and others. (MAH)

The Year of Prayer 2024 calls all baptized Christians to intensify their prayer life. By setting aside dedicated time each day to engage in meditative prayer and other forms of prayer, we open ourselves to the outpouring of the graces God wills to bestow on us. 

Sample of Consciousness Examine (done at the end of the day)

A. Preparation:

Find a suitable place and sit quietly for a moment, opening yourself to the awareness of God's presence. Make a sign of the cross, then ask for the light of the Holy Spirit to see through God's eyes. Then, you may start the consciousness examination.

B. Conscious Examen:

1. What have been the gifts during the day that I should be thankful for?

2. Where was God working during the day in my life; where am I cooperating with Him today; where am I cooperating with the sinful element within me and not doing what I want to do in the Lord (Rom 7:15-20)?

3. Ask for sorrow and forgiveness for the times when you have not been attentive and responsive to his presence and love in your life.

4. Finally, ask for God's help and guidance for tomorrow, trusting He will be with you.

C. Closing:

Conclude your prayer with the Lord's Prayer, Hail Mary, and Glory be. (MAH)

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples in Jerusalem was a momentous event that marked the birth of the Church and the beginning of its mission to go out and evangelize. But this event is not limited to the past; it is an ongoing reality in our lives as Christians. How do you manifest the gifts of the Holy Spirit?

     1. Love: When we show genuine love and compassion towards others, treating them with kindness and respect, we manifest the gift of love.

     2. Joy: When we have a positive attitude and spread joy to those around us, even under challenging circumstances, we manifest the gift of joy.

     3. Peace: When we remain calm and peaceful in the face of conflict or adversity, and help others find peace, we manifest the gift of peace.

     4. Patience: When we show patience and understanding towards others, even when they may irritate or frustrate us, we manifest the gift of patience.

     5. Kindness: When we go out of our way to help others and show kindness in our words and actions, we manifest the gift of kindness.

     6. Goodness: When we act with integrity and do what is right, even when difficult or unpopular, we manifest the gift of goodness.

     7. Faithfulness: When we remain steadfast and loyal to our commitments and relationships, demonstrating trustworthiness and reliability, we manifest the gift of faithfulness.

     8. Gentleness: When we are gentle and compassionate in our interactions with others, showing humility and grace, we manifest the gift of gentleness.

     9. Self-control: When we exhibit self-discipline and restraint in our thoughts, words, and actions, resist temptation, and remain focused on God's will, we manifest the gift of self-control.

By being mindful of these attitudes and actions in our daily interactions with others, we can recognize how the Holy Spirit is working in and through us to bring about positive change and reflect God's love to the world. (MAH)

The God who quietly reigns on the cross starkly contrasts the false gods we often want to worship - those that promise power, control, and victory over our enemies. Jesus, in his humility and love, challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and focus on what truly matters.

Devoting time to adoration before the Eucharist allows us to truly experience the splendor and profundity of God’s love for us. In this serene and introspective setting, we are reacquainted with the significance of selflessness, compassion, and service to others.

Jesus extends a warm invitation for us to embrace his self-sacrificing example and relinquish our thirst for power and control. He beckons us to tread in his footsteps on the path of humility and love rather than pursuing the world’s approval and admiration.

Let us take the time to cultivate a relationship with the God who reigns quietly on the cross, allowing his gentle presence to transform our hearts and guide our actions. Through Holy Adoration, the Holy Spirit will bestow on us the necessary grace to live out the true message of Christ—one of love, humility, and service to others. (MAH)

Understandably, finding time to pray can seem daunting in our busy lives. However, it is essential to remember that prayer is not just an added task on our to-do list but a vital relationship with God, the source of all life. Without this connection, we risk becoming like a dried-up well, withering away without the life-giving water of spirituality. Our role in nurturing this relationship is crucial and the key to unlocking the transformative power of prayer in our lives.

To help inculcate the importance of prayer in our daily lives, we can start by deliberately dedicating three minutes in the morning, at lunchtime, and in the evening before retiring. This simple practice takes only nine minutes of our day. This simple practice can help us grow awareness of God's presence and eventually be generous with our time in dialogue with God, regularly praying the Holy Rosary, Adoration, and other forms of Christian prayer. 

Morning:  You can cultivate a deeper relationship with God by reflecting on the many blessings you receive from his fatherly care and providence. Then, conclude your prayer with "Dear God the Father, thank you for all I am and will be. Amen!"

Lunchtime: Taking time to reflect on Jesus' wisdom and mercy and how you can live out his teachings in your daily actions can help you connect with the mystery of his loving presence; then close your prayer with, "Dear Jesus, have mercy on me, and make my heart like yours. Amen!"

Evening: By acknowledging the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the giver of life, and expressing gratitude for the day, you nurture a sense of hope and anticipation for the future; then end your prayer with "Dear Holy Spirit, I surrender and entrust all my worries and my intentions to live a holy life to your renewing love. Amen!"

Prayer is not just about finding time in our busy schedules; it's about nurturing a relationship with God's presence that sustains us. By dedicating just a few moments each day to this relationship, we can experience prayer's profound and transformative power in our lives. So, let us not let the busyness of life deter us from connecting with the Triune God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Let us take the time to pray and nourish our souls, for in doing so, we will find true fulfillment and purpose. Prayer can transform our lives, bringing us closer to God and aligning our hearts with His will. (Fr. Manny Hewe)

One of the problems we are dealing with in our time is acedia.  It comes from the Greek word that means "a lack of care." Sometimes it is understood as spiritual and mental sloth or apathy. But it is the loss of the taste for God.  When one loses the taste for God consequently leads to the loss of the Holy Sacraments, taste for virtues, and drive for holiness.  It is losing the sense of God's presence, or better still, the real presence, the Holy Eucharist.

On the other hand, we all have an insatiable thirst for more.  The premise or motto "satisfaction guarantee" is deceiving, and it is an untruthful promise because, in reality, there is an appetite for more, and we are never thoroughly contented.  This appetite for more is not just a negative appetite, it is also positive.  It is a glimpse of our desire for the infinite, ultimately a desire for God.  And God wants to give us more of himself, and there is more!

Our relationship with God is never finished.  It is more thirst, more longing, more of God's intimacy.  It is the fire of love burning inside our hearts!  As expressed through the song lyrics that say, "There is a longing in our hearts, O Lord, for you to reveal yourself to us.  There is a longing in our hearts for love we only find in you, our God."

“The mystery of faith!”  With these words, spoken immediately after the words of consecration, the priest proclaims the mystery being celebrated and expresses his wonder before the substantial change of bread and wine into the body and blood of the Lord Jesus, a reality that surpasses all human understanding.  The Eucharist is a “mystery of faith” par excellence:  “the sum and summary of our faith.”

The Church’s faith is essentially a eucharistic faith, and it is especially nourished at the table of the Eucharist.  Faith and the sacraments are two complementary aspects of ecclesial life.  Awakened by the preaching of God's word, faith is nourished and grows in the grace-filled encounter with the Risen Lord in the sacraments:  “Faith is expressed in the rite, while the rite reinforces and strengthens faith.”  For this reason, the Sacrament of the Altar is always at the heart of the Church’s life:  “Thanks to the Eucharist, the Church is reborn ever anew.”

The livelier the eucharistic faith of the People of God, the deeper its sharing in ecclesial life in steadfast commitment to the mission entrusted by Christ to his disciples.  The Church's very history bears witness to this.  Every great reform has in some way been linked to the rediscovery of belief in the Lord's eucharistic presence among his people.

Pope St. John Paul II dedicated the second Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday, a day transcending mere devotion.  In his encyclical' Dives in Misericordia,' published on November 30, 1980, he described Divine Mercy as God's most profound expression of love in a world marred by sin.

The Latin term 'Misericordia,' meaning 'mercy,' is derived from two words: 'miseri' (misery) and 'cor' (heart). Essentially, God takes our pitiful state caused by sin and places it within the compassionate heart of Jesus, who remains faithful to His Father's will.  The passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ exteriorized the Divine Mercy.  As stated in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son" to die for our salvation.  The Easter Vigil echoes this sentiment with the proclamation, "To redeem the slave, He has sacrificed the Son." Once resurrected, Jesus becomes a wellspring of salvation for all believers.

The Church urges us to live this resurrected life by receiving Holy Communion during Easter in God's grace.  The fifty days after Easter provide an opportune time to fulfill the Paschal Precept through Confession, thereby accessing forgiveness given through Christ's resurrection power conferred upon His Church.  As told by Jesus to His Apostles in John 20:22-23 - "Receive the Holy Spirit; whose sins you forgive are forgiven."  Thus, we approach Divine Mercy's source without hesitation or doubt while also guiding others towards these life-giving sources – Eucharist and Penance.

Easter Sequence: Victimea Paschali Laudes (to the Paschal Victim Offer your thankful praises)

(March 31, 2024)

This Easter Sequence is a time-honored expression of the Church's celebrations during the Easter Octave, an eight-day feast.  Its roots can be traced back to the 11th century, solidifying its status as a critical component of Easter liturgies.  Today, it is one of five corresponding 'sequences' integral to various celebrations such as Pentecost, Corpus Christi, Our Lady of Sorrows, and the Requiem Mass.  The Easter Sequence is mandatory for the Easter Sunday Mass and can be recited daily throughout the Easter Octave to highlight the supreme importance of this solemnity.

 - The Holy Eucharist for me is the light that guides me where I am going and keeps me safe.  The moment I received Jesus in the Eucharist I feel more safe and protected.  He is with me.

Dear Jesus, I am thankful for you when you became man.  I’d like to ask you to help

my Mom and Dad for what they are going through.  Please guide and make my brother

and sister safe always. And bless the road that we walk every day. 

And bless the people living on the streets.  Amen.

                                                                                         Jayden Ancheta

Children Ministry 

 - The Holy Eucharist for me is prayer. It helps me to do good not evil, not to sin.  Since I received the Holy Eucharist I stay calm and not start any fight with my sister.

Dear Jesus, I’m sorry for my sins.  I hope to see some of my mistakes as sin, sin I do

to my Mom and Dad.  Amen.

                                                                                                                    Marcus Mariano

                                                                                                                                  Children Ministry

 - For me, the Eucharist is all about love, forgiveness and goodness.  When I received Jesus for the first time I felt more in God’s family and I have been participating in the mass more.

Dear Jesus, thank you for giving us the food and water for us to drink and eat.  I will be more loving to my family.  I will follow the 10 commandments.  Amen.

                                                                                                                               Julian Vea

                                                                                                                                   Children Ministry

St. Jerome:

"If Christ did not want to dismiss the Jews without food in the desert for fear that they would collapse on the way, it was to teach us that it is dangerous to try to get to heaven without the Bread of Heaven."

St. Therese of Lisieux:

"Receive Communion often, very often...there you have the sole remedy, if you want to be cured.  Jesus has not put this attraction in your heart for nothing..."

St. Maximilian Kolbe:

"If angels could be jealous of men, they would be so for one reason: Holy Communion."

St. John Vianney, Cure d'Ars:

"All the good works in the world are not equal to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass because they are the works of men; but the Mass is the work of God.  Martyrdom is nothing in comparison for it is but the sacrifice of man to God; but the Mass is the sacrifice of God for man."

Receiving Jesus in the Holy Eucharist is not just worthy of our dignity as children of God but of heaven --Fr. Manny Hewe

(March 17, 2024)

Praying passionately to Jesus for our needs is a testament to our faith.  However, disregarding his offer to partake in his Body and Blood results in a hollow prayer, as it prioritizes grace over the giver of grace.  Isn't it absurd to seek divine favor while neglecting its source?  This mirrors the behavior of the prodigal son or elder brother solely focused on their material inheritance (cf. Lk. 15:11-32).

Just as children require more than material comfort from their parents for a fulfilling family life, we, too, need the presence of our Savior, Jesus Christ, the provider of blessings.  We heed his words when he proclaimed, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world" (Jn 6:51).  This prophecy is fulfilled when we gather at Church to celebrate Holy Eucharist and receive him through holy communion.

How can we dismiss St. Paul's declaration about communion where he states: "On the night, he was handed over (betrayed), took bread, and, after he had given thanks, broke it and said, "This is my body that is for you.  Do this in remembrance of me."  In the same way also the cup, after supper, says, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood.  Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me."  For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes" (1 Cor 11:23-26).

While seeking grace can be temporary, receiving Jesus through the Holy Eucharist dignifies us as God's children and brings us closer to heaven.

Our faith deepens Jesus' living presence and amplifies our gratitude towards his blessings when we worship him in the Blessed Sacrament.  As St. John Bosco said, "Do you want many graces?  Go and visit the Blessed Sacrament often. Do you want few graces? Visit the Blessed Sacrament rarely. Do you want none at all? Then never pay a visit to the Blessed Sacrament."

Parish Lenten Retreat on March 20, 2024, 6:00 PM @ Co-Cathedral of St. Theresa Church

(March 10, 2024)

Theme: Come and be Healed

"On the night he was betrayed, he took the bread and gave thanks… " (1 Corinthians 11:23).

Come join in our reflection on the extraordinary grace and strength of Jesus!

On the night he was betrayed, Jesus demonstrated a love and compassion beyond comprehension.  He took bread and gave thanks despite the looming betrayal that awaited him. His actions serve as a reminder of the enduring power of forgiveness and grace.

In the face of impending betrayal, Jesus still chose to share a meal with those who would deny him.  His unfaltering love and compassion are a powerful example for us to emulate.  It reminds us all that forgiveness and compassion can shine even brighter in the face of treachery. This is not just about a shared meal but an everlasting covenant born out of love and sacrifice.

As we reflect on Jesus' actions, let us also take this opportunity to seek forgiveness from our Lord for any betrayals we may have caused or endured.  Let us allow Jesus' teachings to inspire us to turn our pain into lessons of love and kindness. Let us humbly open our hearts and seek reconciliation with our Lord and one another as we prepare to celebrate the Holy Sacrament of Reconciliation.

I invite you all to join us for an hour of reflection as we contemplate Jesus' extraordinary grace and strength and prepare our hearts for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  Let us unite in prayer and meditation, seeking forgiveness and renewed love and compassion.

With my prayers,

Fr. Manny Hewe

Pastor

To Persistently Call Upon God in Prayer!

(March 3, 2024)

How often do we turn to God in prayer?  Is it once, twice, or thrice a day? Our patron, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, taught us that prayer should be an ongoing act, every moment of every day.   She eloquently stated, "For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned towards heaven, expressing both thanksgiving and love during times of struggle and happiness."

The depth of our prayers should not be gauged by their length but by how often we call upon God and express our devotion to Him during our lifetimes.  We connect with Him from the moment we rise to when we retire for the day. We seek His protection, guidance, and inspiration before and after each activity throughout our day.

Prayer is more than just a tool for emergencies; it is our way of life. As the saying goes, "In happy moments, praise God; in tough times, seek God; in quiet moments, worship God; when pain strikes, trust God; at all times, thank God."

A life filled with prayer leaves no room for evil.  Satan often encourages idleness or busyness as a means to prevent us from praying because he knows the power of prayer thwarts him.

Our Lord Jesus reminds us that verbosity in prayer does not equate to effectiveness because God knows what we need even before words are spoken (cf. Matt 6:8).  Lengthy petitions are not discouraged if they come from a pure heart.  Often, it's better to have a silent heart full of devotion than countless words devoid of genuine sentiment.  A single heartfelt word has more value to God than countless empty ones. The powerful words from the Psalms echo this sentiment:  "A broken spirit and contrite heart you will not despise" (Psalm 51:17).

The Holy Eucharist is the highest form of prayer.  It is the prayer of all the prayers.  All prayers should lead to it because Jesus, our risen Lord, is the head and the presider.  All our prayer intentions are made through him, with him, and in him. 

We pray not merely for worldly desires but for heavenly blessings, not just for immediate respite but, ultimately, the salvation of our souls. Let us constantly call upon God!                                                                                                                  --Fr. Manny Hewe

Repetition is the mother of all learning.  In order to appreciate the value of a thing, it has to be taught repeatedly many times to be understood.

Jesus repeated the teaching of the bread of life several times, particularly in the Gospel of John 6:22-71.

He repeated this teaching as the bread of life because he wants his disciples and us to be perpetually in union with him.

It is God’s mysterious plan that the Son, Jesus Christ, will become the bread of life for all.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem.  The name Bethlehem in Hebrew is Bet Lehem, which means “house of bread.”  There, in Bethlehem, Jesus was born. Where?  In a manger, a manger is where they store the food for animals.

He could have given us the blessed bread, just as he multiplies the bread to feed the multitudes (cf Jn 6:1-21).  But he chooses to be born among us first.  He gave himself entirely without reservation. He gives everything of who he is because of his love for us.

We knew his love when he saw the crowd hungry.  He felt deep compassion. He doesn’t want to send them away.  It is the same compassion he has for all of us.  Jesus wants to feed us by the bread of life, to be fed by himself.  Because he wants us to be filled with spiritual food to sustain our journey to heaven, he doesn’t want us to be weak or lack spiritual nourishment.

We are in communion with Heaven when, in faith, we receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.  Let us pray that in our regular reception of the Body of Christ, we are profoundly united with him.  (Fr. Manny Hewe)

Catechism Series on Holy Eucharist…

Scandal, division, disease, and doubt are realities in our world. The Church, a beacon of resilience, has weathered these storms throughout human history. But today, we face them all at once. Our response at this very moment is not just crucial; it is the turning point, a testament to our collective strength and unity. It is a call to action, a call for us to stand together and face these challenges with unwavering faith.

Amidst these tumultuous waves, Jesus stands not just as a beacon of hope and strength but as a force more powerful than any storm. His transformative power is not a distant promise but a present reality. He is here to heal, renew, and unify the Church and the world, instilling a renewed sense of hope and faith in each and every one of us.

How will he accomplish this? By bringing us together, once again, around the heart of our faith-the Eucharist. The National Eucharistic Revival is not just an event. It's a transformative response, a beacon of hope and renewal that fills us with anticipation and excitement. It's our response, a response filled with joy and anticipation that starts from the very roots of our Church, a response to a divine invitation that calls for our unwavering commitment.

Please visit https://www.eucharisticrevival.org and enrich yourselves by browsing and reading stories and articles about the beauty of the Holy Eucharist. You will find a wealth of information, personal testimonies, and reflections that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of this sacred sacrament. (MAH)

Jesus said, "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life.”  This teaching was so shocking that many of his followers left at that moment!  Jesus did not call them back to clarify, because he knew they understood correctly. He was actually telling them to eat his flesh and drink his blood.

As Catholics, we believe Jesus' words literally, not symbolically.  The substance of the bread and wine transform into the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ at every Mass.

(eucharisticrevival.org)

The Eucharistic Revival Prayer