Civil Authority

When Jesus founded the Church, he gave it authority. “Peter you are the rock and on this rock I will build my Church… whatever binds on earth is bound in heaven, and whatever is loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” (Matthew 16:18-19) In this world, there is only one authority and that is…

Money

In a eulogy that I witnessed, a son was giving tribute to his father. He said when he was growing up, they would wonder why they were not as rich as the office mates of his father. His father would always say three things: First, God sees everything Second, it is better to eat simple…

Seeing God’s Hand

How many times have I been asked this question, “Why does God allow evil in this world?” That indeed is a very valid question. Just look at the current state of the world. First, the right is made wrong and the wrong is made right Second, the evildoers are very bold. Why stand up for…

Ghost

On a personal note, one thing that has helped me in the priesthood is the ministry of exorcism. Why? First, it reminds me that in the world that we live in, there is the seen and the unseen. Second, as St. Paul said, what is happening in the unseen is the greatest battle – the…

Come Follow Me

In the music industry, there is what is called “Fandom”. They are passionate and devoted fans who are deeply engaged with their favorite artists, groups, or bands. They attend concerts, buy merchandise, boost streaming momentum, and participate in fan communities. In other words, they will follow their favorite artists anywhere they are and all that…

Social Sins

Ed. Note: This was a homily for a school mass. Student or not though, we can all relate to the lessons. In 1925, Mahatma Gandhi published in his newspaper Young India, a list of social sins. Almost 100 years later, now more than ever, these have become very relevant: Politics without principles Wealth without work…

Paradox of Life

It is said that life is a paradox. Five examples: First, the more you try to impress people, the less people will be impressed Second, the more you fail, the more likely you will succeed Third, the more you are afraid of death, the less you will enjoy life Fourth, the more you learn, the…

Inclusive

One of the most popular word nowadays is Inclusive. It is defined as not excluding any person, party or group. The basis for this in the matters of faith, is that all are children of God, with the only difference being blessed differently because of each mission given by God. Sadly though, discrimination is very…

The Cross

We have seen in the movies, and some of us in real life, when a cross is placed in front of a person who is possessed, the evil person shrieks in anger and fear. Why? The Cross reminds the evil spirit that by the death of Christ on the cross, he has conquered death and…

Repentance

None of us are perfect, none of us live perfect lives. We all make mistakes, we all sin, we all hurt God, our neighbor, and ourselves. However, there are two realities in life. There are people who refuse to change: “This is who I am, you have to accept me.” “ I was born this…