3rd Sunday of Lent (Year C)

Take off your sandals!

march 23, 2025 | 3rd sunday of lent, Year C

Exodus 3:1-8a,13-15; Psalm 103; 1 Corinthians 10:1-6,10-12; Luke 13:1-9

After his experience in the desert and at mount Tabor, the encounter of Moses and God at Sinai and Jesus’ message in today’s Gospel of Luke 13:1-9, invite us to repentance. This is the goal of Lent.

Repent

Lent is indeed a season of grace inviting us for repentance in order to make it to the joy of Easter with Christ. Jesus is clear with us in today’s Gospel:

“Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish”.

Tertullian (155 – 220 AD) one of the Fathers of the Church teaches us that God grants us pardon by means of our repentance even though our sins have brought death penalty. Prophet Ezekiel in his Book, reminds us that God

“have no pleasure in the death of a sinner but rather that he should return from his evil ways and live.” (Ezekiel 18:23).

Our God is a kind and merciful Father (Ps. 103) who always gives us a second chance so that we can bear fruits. The parable of the fig tree illustrates appropriately our relationship with God. We are the fig tree planted in God’s vineyard and he expects good fruits from us every day. In his faithfulness and patience, God feeds us with his word, nourishes us with his sacraments and fills us with the power of his Holy Spirit for repentance. We are truly saved by repentance and faith. As Paul Washer said:

“The evidence of salvation is changed life, a changing life”.

Lent as a Time of purification

Today's first reading as well Moses cannot enter the holy ground, where the Great I ‘AM dwells. He needs to take off his shoes (Exodus 3:16). The time of Lent is inviting us to remove any dirty sandals that we are wearing: the sandals of resentment, of grudges, of selfishness and greed, corruption, untruthfulness, of lies, of gossip, of the lust power and of the flesh. We need to remove everything that is destructive to our journey to Easter. Maybe there is a great need in our lives to stay away from people and things that cause distractions and friends who manipulate us. Taking off our sandals will demand a kind of spiritual detox: sanitizing and sanctifying any area of our lives that needs purification. This Sunday invites us to take off our sandals for a humble approach to the divine. St. Augustine reminds us that this is an act of humility and reverence in the presence of God.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the Gospel this Week. Bearing good fruits Galatians 5:22-23

God is expecting us to be fruitful. The letter to the Galatians speaks of two kinds of fruits. The fruits of the flesh and the fruits of the spirit. May the Lord grant us the grace to bear the fruits of love, joy, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control during these 40 days of Lent. Jesus says to us:

"A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit" (Matthew 7:18).

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

2nd Sunday of Lent (Year C)

The Sacraments and our Transformation

march 16, 2025 | 2nd sunday of lent, Year C

Genesis 15:5-12,17-18; Philippians 3:17–4:1; Luke 9:28b– 6

Lent is about transformation and holiness; Indeed the transfiguration of Christ revealed him as the Son of God who will suffer, die and rise on the third day. So the disciples should be comforted and strengthened by Jesus’ divine glory so that they could face the upcoming trials. We need the Holy Spirit to help us achieve this goal. Three spiritual experiences of transformation of Abraham, Paul and Jesus in today’s readings can enable us to envisage the power of transformation of the sacraments in our lives.

The transfiguration of Jesus helps understand our “transfiguration” in the Holy Mass as the source of our strength. In each Holy Mass, the bread and wine we offer on the altar become “transfigured” or transformed (transubstiated) into the living Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of the crucified, risen, and glorified Jesus. Just as Jesus’ Transfiguration was meant to strengthen the apostles in their time of trial, each Holy Mass should be our source of Heavenly strength against temptations, and for our Lenten renewal. After receiving holy communion, last Thursday, I observed the joy and the transformation on the faces of the homebound that I visited.

Each time we receive one of the Sacraments, we are transformed: For example, Baptism transforms us into sons and daughters of God and heirs of heaven. Confirmation makes us temples of the Holy Spirit and warriors of God. By the Sacrament of Reconciliation, God brings back the sinner to the path of holiness. Fr. Anthony de Mello tells the story of such a metamorphosis in the prayer life of an old man. “I was a revolutionary when I was young and all my prayer to God was: ‘Lord, give me the grace to change the world.’ As I approached middle age and realized that half of my life was gone without changing a single soul, I changed my prayer to: ‘Lord, give me the grace to change all those who come in contact with me; just my family and friends and I shall be satisfied.’ Now that I am old and my days are numbered, I have begun to see how foolish I have been. My one prayer now is: ‘Lord, give me the grace to change myself.’ If I had prayed for this right from the start, I should not have wasted my life.”

The Transfiguration of Jesus offers us a message of encouragement and hope: In moments of doubt and during our dark moments of despair and hopelessness, the thought of our own transfiguration in Heaven will help us to reach out to God and to listen to His consoling words to Jesus: “This is my beloved Son in Whom I am well pleased — listen to Him!” and so share the glory of His transfiguration.

Prayer: Lord, guide us to live as citizens of heaven, focusing on Your glory. Open our hearts to Your grace in our lives. May we reflect Your love and light to the world. Amen.

Living the Gospel today: Living as Citizens of Heaven. Philippians 3:20

On this 2nd Sunday of Lent, St. Paul’s invites us to live as citizens of heaven. He urges us to follow his example. This reminds us to focus on our heavenly home and not just on earthly things. Let’s fix our eyes on eternity. Let’s prioritize our spiritual life. We should seek to grow closer to God each day through spiritual exercises. Does my way of life give honor to God and shows my hope in God’s promises?

Reflect on these words of St Augustine: “The heavenly city, which is the focus here, is characterized by a pursuit of eternal happiness and the society of saints, while the earthly city is marked by the pursuit of earthly pleasures and self-glory.”

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

1st Sunday of Lent (Year C)

In the midst of temptations, trust in God

march 9, 2025 | 1st sunday of lent, Year C

Deuteronomy 26:4-10; 91; Romans 10:8-13; Luke 4: 1-13

Lent is a very special season. A period of time like no other in the year when we get a chance to make a real change in our life, a time when we can dive deeper into biblical teachings, prayers, ideas, concepts, and doctrines. The more this begins to take roots in our lives, the more we begin to grow into a profound relationship with God and better our relationship with one another. On this first Sunday of Lent, we focus on temptations and how to overcome them.

What is temptation?

Temptation is here taken to be an incitement to sin whether by persuasion or by the offer of some good or pleasure. The Catechism of the Catholic Church sees temptation as an attraction, either from within oneself or external forces, to act contrary to right reason and God’s commandments. We are tempted every day because the devil always tries turn our attention away from Jesus and God’s kingdom.

Types of temptations

The temptations that we go through are the same that Jesus experienced thousands years ago. We are often tempted like Jesus on physical needs, that is, things that our body needs (food, water and pleasures).

“If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”

Jesus is teaching us through this temptation that our dependence on God is more important than our dependence on material.

“Man does not live with bread alone, but every word that comes from God’s mouth.”

How about if we focus on our relationship with God by using the word of God as our Master weapon.

Our daily experience shows the temptation of power and superiority. The temptation of pride and excessive search of power can be very dangerous as it can lead jealousy, using unchristian means to destroy, eliminate or suppress others. It gives rise to pride and violence in all its forms. Our devotion and love for God must come before our self-seeking ambitions.

The temptation of idolatry, that is a psychological temptation to give into false security and false idea of self-control and self-sufficiency. St. Augustine tells that, we can overcome all these temptations today by imitating Jesus. Let’s stand strong against temptations in our lives. Yes indeed, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him alone shall you serve”. Amen.

Living the Gospel this week: Time, Trust and Surrender

In the first reading from the Book of Deuteronomy 26:4-10, the Israelites offer their first fruits to God, showing their trust and gratitude. They recognize that everything they have comes from Him. What a powerful example of trust to imitate.

In Romans 10:8-13, Paul encourages us to trust in Jesus for our salvation. Believing in our hearts and confessing with our mouths shows our faith. In our pilgrimage of faith, our trust in God’s promise is essential. During this Lent, please open your heart to God’s promises in your life!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

8th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Our Words and Actions tell who we are

march 2, 2025 | 8th Sunday in ordinary time, Year C

Sirach 27:4-7; Psalm 92; 1 Corinthians 15:54-58; Luke 6:39-45

On the 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, the readings remind us that our speeches, actions, and lifestyles determine the type of person or the type Christians that we are. Jesus in the Gospel reading tells us

“A good tree does not bear rotten fruit, nor does a rotten tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For people do not pick figs from thorn bushes, nor do they gather grapes from brambles. A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks.”

Examine your words and your actions?

Good people are known by their Good heart and actions

The Book of Sirach 27:4-7 teaches us that our words are the fruits of our goodness. The words we speak reveal our true selves. Good words reflect a good heart. Do we pay attention to how we speak to people and what we say to them?

“Just as a tree’s fruit shows its care, words show thoughts”.

This is to say, the heart of man is manifest in his behavior as God wants us to love him from our heart as seen in Isaiah 29:13.

“This people honor me with their lips but their hearts are far away”.

Do our words and actions reveal the heart of Jesus, his love and kindness? A life of love, kindness and mercy towards others is possible for those who have victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ our Lord as we heard in the second reading of this Sunday.

“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, steadfast, always fully devoted to the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

The true heart of a Disciple

In the conclusion of his sermon in the plain, Jesus brings out three aspects for establishing a true disciple, those whose words and actions are the true expression of their faith and Christ’s light for others. Jesus mentions them as follows: 1) A true disciple guides; 2) a True disciple imitates Jesus; 3) a true disciple bears good fruits. In fact, Jesus wants us on this Sunday first to address our own faults which often blind us. Before we correct others, let us clean our own hearts. In one of his Homilies, Pope Francis said: Sometimes, we use rigidness to cover our weaknesses, our personality, our flaws, and maybe to rank ourselves above others. Jesus invites us to our own conversion. 2) Jesus invites us to imitate Him. A true disciple must learn from Christ: how he prays, how he forgives, how sacrifices himself, how he healed the sick and loved everyone without discrimination. Are we living like Christ, our Master? 3) The true heart of Christ’s disciple bears visible fruits just as a good tree produces good fruits. Our behavior should be Christ-like. “A good tree does not bear rotten fruit, nor does a rotten tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit.” Luke 6:43-44. Let our words flow from hearts filled with grace, love and hope. Let’s our hearts be rooted in Christ so that we can bear good fruits and produce good behavior, speaking wisely with love and kindness!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the gospel this week. I confess (The Confiteor Prayer)

As we are approaching the time of Lent and as we look at this Sunday’s Gospel inviting us to examine ourselves first, I thought to reflect with you this week on the Confiteor prayer. Jesus in today’s Gospel asked a very important question

“Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?”

This calls clearly for self-introspection. In the beginning of every Mass, the confiteor helps us to do such introspection and acknowledge our most grievous faults.

The Confiteor, also known as the “I Confess” prayer, is a part of the Penitential Rite in Mass. It reminds us of our own weaknesses and need for God’s mercy. The phrase “through my fault,” said three times, translates to “Mea culpa” in Latin, often used to admit mistakes. Reflecting on the 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, this prayer helps us acknowledge our sins before God and seek forgiveness.

Please pray with Psalm 51

Special intention for our Pope, Francis

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

7th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Love of Enemies

February 23, 2025 | 7th Sunday in ordinary time, Year C

1 Samuel 26:2,7-9,12-13,22-23; Psalm 103; 1 Corinthians 15:45-49; Luke 6:27-38

Martin Luther King Junior once said:

“there is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us”

Discovering this could easily help us to be compassionate and merciful. Dear brothers and sisters, we focus on God’s mercy and compassion. Jesus in the Gospel of Luke 6:27-38 instructs his disciples to love enemies, do good to haters, bless cursors, and pray for abusers. This seems sometimes very difficult as we often fall into retaliation and vengeance. Our experience shows that, when someone hates you, you have two choices: to hate back or to refuse to hate. Jesus on this Sunday invites to love generously and unconditionally like God. He is kind to all.

Concretely, Jesus in today’s gospel invites us to the different categories of people who could be considered by us as enemies namely, the one who hates you, who curses you, who slaps you on your cheek, the one who takes your cloak, the one asks you something and you don’t give it to him, who steals from you and the one that you treat badly. Our enmity with others falls under these categories. According to Saint Augustine,

“You have enemies. For who can live on earth without enemies. Love them. In no way can your enemy so hurt you by his violence as you hurt yourself if you love him not”

Be Builders of Bridges

Christ, by inviting us to non-retaliation invites us to become bridge builders as Christians. How should I achieve this mission? First, Jesus invites us to

“Do good to those who offend us or who hate us”.

By doing good, we are building bridges. In the first reading of 1 Samuel 26, David gives us an example of forgiveness. He found Saul asleep, took his spear and jug and refused to harm him. For David, it is wrong to strike the Lord’s anointed. David refused to treat Saul according to what he did. David is foreshadowing the teaching and example of Christ Jesus who will forgive us all on the cross and reconcile us again with his Father. David portrays God’s attitude towards us whereas Abishai portrays our attitude of revenge towards the enemy. Which attitude do we often have towards our enemy?

Second, He asks us to “bless those who persecute us”. Usually, when someone is considered to be our enemy, we tend to speak bad about them, we deform their character and we even wish them bad. As children of God, we should bless our fellow humans even when we are not friends with them. By doing so, we are building bridges. Nelson Mandela one said: “I forgive all my enemies because if I don’t, even if I’m out of prison, I will still imprison myself”

Finally Jesus urges us to pray for our enemies as he did (Luke 23:34). This an invitation to invite the Holy Spirit to change their hearts and our hearts in order to become true children of the compassionate Father. Have you ever prayed for your enemies? That is indeed the true meaning of love. As St. Augustine rightly said:

“You don’t love in your enemies what they are, but what you would have them become by your prayers”

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the Gospel this week. Praying for your enemies

The love of the enemies is the command which makes a difference between the true followers of Christ and those who are not. I know how hard we find this invitation of our Lord. Think and pray with these words of St. Augustine throughout this week:

“That your enemies have been created is God’s doing; that they hate you and wish to ruin you is their own doing. What should you say about them in your mind? "Lord, be merciful to them, forgive them their sins, put the fear of God in them, and change them! You are loving in them not what they are, but what they would have to become by your prayers”.

Blessed Sunday!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

6th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Placing our Trust in God

February 16, 2025 | 6th Sunday in ordinary time, Year C

Jeremiah 17:5-8; Psalm 1; 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20; Luke 6:17, 20-26.

On this 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we focus on trusting in God, the power of the resurrection, and true happiness. Such happiness will depend on our attitude of relying on God and finding hope in Jesus Christ’s resurrection. By giving us the Litany of the Beatitudes, Jesus is teaching us to live by God’s ways daily. Contrary to our worldly understanding, Jesus promises blessings to the poor, mourning, meek, and others who follow God’s path. We are hereby invited to acknowledge Jesus as the source of comfort, justice, and peace.

Trust in God:

In the first reading, Prophet Jeremiah sets up against the backdrop of the strategy of Juda’s leaders to form an alliance with Egypt against the Babylonians. Jeremiah warns against trusting in human strength (military and political alliances) and calls for trust in God. True happiness comes from relying on God, not on ourselves. Our blessings or curses depend on our decision to put our trust on God or on human beings and worldly things. The responsorial psalm sums it up so kindly when it says:

“Blessed the man who hopes in the Lord…who follows not the counsel of the wicked, nor walks in the ways of sinners” (Ps 1:1).

Such a hope gives us the certitude of the eternal, which St. Paul defends in the second reading. Our faith will be useless if it were not rooted on the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Our true happiness is not based on the visible things that we possess, but on the promise of eternity by Jesus. Hence his litany of the woes and beatitudes.

True Happiness

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is teaching on the plain and here, he gives us both the blessings and the warnings of woe. Those who put their full trust in God, such as the poor and hungry will find total satisfaction in the Lord now and in their future. However, those who are rich, full of themselves, and who are laughing now should remember that their comfort is temporary. They need therefore to seek true happiness by putting their trust in God and sharing their temporary resources with the needy. By doing so they are like “a tree planted near running water that yields its fruits in due season, and whose leaves never fade.” Ps 1).

Jesus himself, who rose from the dead, is the source of such happiness. By living according to Jesus’ own way of life, we are assured of his unfailing help. With Saint Edith Stein we can conclude:

“Lay all your cares about the future trustingly in God’s hands, and let yourself be guided by the Lord just like a little child.”

Lord help us to trust in you and not in ourselves. Strengthen our faith in the resurrection and guide us to seek true happiness in your blessings! Amen.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the Gospel this week. Two ways of Living

Psalm 1 invites us to think about two ways of living: the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. Those who choose to avoid sin and delight in God’s law. They are blessed. They are like a strong tree with deep roots, stable and fruitful. They grow and prosper under God’s care. There are also those who refuse to choose this way. They are cursed. Please read and pray with Psalm 1.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

sharing the good news

january 26, 2024 | 3rd Sunday in ordinary time, Year C

Nehemiah 8:2-4A, 5-6, 8-10; Psalm 19;1 Corinthians 12-30; Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21

On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we reflect on the importance of the word of God. In the first reading, we see Ezra reading the Word of the Law (Torah) from morning till noon. The Assembly responds with worship and tears. At every Mass, we celebrate the joy and the power of the Word of God.

Jesus’s Mission

Jesus in today’s Gospel, quoting Prophet Isaiah, explains His mission. He came to bring good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed. Jesus’ mission is to help and save everyone. He came to show God’s love and care for all people. Throughout this year of the Jubilee of Hope, let’s bring hope and healing. How can we do this?

Our Mission: Following Jesus’ example

Following the example of Jesus, we observe that he started His mission filled with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gave Him the strength and guidance to carry out His work. This shows that Jesus relied on the Spirit for help. For us, it means that we, too, need the Holy Spirit that we received through our baptism and confirmation to guide us in our lives and missions.

On this third Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we are encouraged to follow Jesus’ example and to give the priority to listening and sharing the word of God with others. We respect and love the place of the word in our Liturgy and in our prayer life. Let’s bring this good news and help those in need. Let's be open to the gift of the Holy Spirit, who gives us the strength and courage to fulfill our missions. By living out our mission, we show God’s love to others and make a positive impact on the world.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to listen to your word and understand its message. Fill us with the Holy Spirit to live out our mission and bring your love to others. Guide us to use our gifts for the good of the Church and the world. Amen.

Happy Sunday to you all.

Living the Gospel this Week.

This Sunday, I would like us to focus on the importance of listening to God’s word. Nehemiah showed the people that reading and understanding Scripture brings joy and strength. When we take time to listen to God’s word, we find guidance and comfort. It helps us grow in our faith and live better lives.

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

(2 Timothy 3: 16-17)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

do whatever he tells you

january 19, 2024 | 2nd Sunday in ordinary time, Year C

Isaiah 62:1-5; Psalm 96; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; John 2:1-11

On this 19th day of the new year of hope, the Church invites us to ponder on the first miracle of Jesus, the wedding at Cana. At this wedding, they ran out of wine and Mary, who was there together with the disciples, played a key role. Mary is indeed our mother and our intercessor whose advice remains the same for God’s children from all ages. “Do whatever he tells you.” Mary invites us to trust and to follow Jesus as she did and the Lord will rejoice over us as the bridegroom rejoices over his bride (Isaiah 62:1-5).

Why turning water into wine?

Turning water into wine aims at reminding us the true meaning of heaven. The kingdom of God is a celebration of joy, as Jesus is indeed the new and everlasting covenant, the joy, the blessings and the life of all believers. This explains the reasons for this miracle. Mary is asking Jesus to perform this miracle because she is concerned about us. “When the wine runs short… the mother of Jesus said to him: “they have no wine”. At the same time, Mary wants Jesus to reveal God’s Glory. John tells us that, “Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs at Cana in Galilee and so reveals his Glory.” Finally, the miracle was to help Jesus’s disciples to grow in faith. Today’s gospel tells us that after revealing his glory, “his disciples began to believe in him”

Lessons from the wedding at Cana

1) We too will run out of supply

On the journey of faith, we too will run out of supply. St. Ignatius of Loyola calls this lack, “desolation” and St. John of the Cross speaks of the “darkest hour” a moment of spiritual crisis and dryness in our lives. We will experience moments of lack and disappointment and discouragement, loss of loved ones, moments of tiredness or financial loss. In such moments, let’s invite Jesus and Mary in our lives for only Jesus can fill our empty jars. Jesus is the true wine that brings joy into our lives. Jesus who can turn water into wine can also turn our sorrows into joy; transform our worries and anxieties into an experience of hope and rejoicing. God can indeed bless us especially when we are in trouble because he is the God who came to raise us from shame to dignity, the dust and the darkness of the tomb to the glory of the resurrection.

2) Joy as a sign of God’s presence

God can change our lack to abundance. Just as he created us out of nothing, God can take us from nothing to something greater through the power of the Holy Spirit. Let’s develop a good relationship with Jesus and Mary and our sacramental marriage, our family life, our community of Faith will be blessed and will experience constant joy. With Jesus and Mary’s presence in our families, every family and community becomes a sign of a joyous celebration of God’s presence. The gifts of the Holy Spirit in this very sense will be used by each for the unity and the good of the family, the church and the community where every member gives due respect to others.

Living The Gospel this week. The role of Mary in our Christian faith

Dear brothers and sisters, reflecting on the gospel of this Sunday, I wanted to meditate on the role of the blessed Virgin, Mary. At Cana she notices that the wine has run out and asks Jesus to help. Her faith and care for others are evident in her actions. (John 2:5)

Mary’s request to Jesus shows her trust in His ability to help. She serves as an example of faith and intercession. Just as she asked Jesus to help at the wedding, we can ask her to intercede for us with her Son.

“The greatest saints, those richest in grace and virtue will be the most assiduous in praying to the most Blessed Virgin, looking up to her as the perfect model to imitate and as a powerful helper to assist them.” Saint Louis Marie de Montfort

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo SAC

Baptism of the Lord (Year C)

baptized with christ

january 12, 2024 | feast of the baptism of the lord, Year C

Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11; Titus 2:11-17; 3:4-7; Luke 3:15-16. 21-22.

Dear brothers and sisters, welcome to the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. We end today, the Christmas season. This baptism inaugurates Jesus’s public ministry. The Baptism of our Lord serves to remind us of our own Baptisms. While Baptism serves to liberate us from original sin, all evil and bondage from any ancestry, the Baptism of Jesus was to serve as an example. Jesus did not need Baptism for he did not need any rebirth or purification.

Jesus baptism was for our salvation

In his Book, ‘Jesus of Nazareth’, Pope Benedict XVI helps us to solve the problem of Jesus' baptism. For him, sinless Jesus did not have any sins of his own to take him down into the river Jordan. It could only have been our sins that he took down into the river Jordan. The baptism of Jesus was symbolizing his death on the cross for our sins. By descending in the water of Jordan, he took our sins on his shoulders as he went down into the Jordan and as he died on the cross. Just as he came up from the water, he equally rose from the earth. There is a clear link between the baptism of Jesus and Jesus’ cross. Henceforth, St. Paul in his letter to the Romans tells us:

“Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in the newness of life.” (Rom. 6:3-4)

Jesus’ baptism reminds us our baptism

Jesus' baptism in Jordan expressed his desire to die on the cross for our salvation, so does our own baptism express the intention of our whole self to die to our sin and to live like Jesus. Every day, we are called to live out of our baptism with that new life of Jesus. That is why we are baptized in the same Holy Trinity that was made manifest at Christ’s baptism as enjoined by Christ. We are Trinitarian people.

In today’s gospel, St. Luke reminds us of the voice of the Father acknowledging Jesus as his beloved Son whom we must listen to. Our baptism invites us to faithfulness and obedience to the will of God throughout our entire life. Like Jesus, our life must be filled with the Holy Spirit who will guide our lives into newness of life.

My brothers and sisters, through his baptism, Christ’s identity and mission was revealed as the beloved son of the Father. For us, our baptism makes us Jesus’ disciples, renews and connects us to God as his children, and gives us the strength to achieve our mission and ministries in the Church and in the world. We need to lead a prayerful life as an active action of building the Kingdom of God on Earth.

Happy feast of your baptism!

Living the Gospel. Effects of Baptism

Today’s reading helps us to reflect on the sacrament of Baptism. Let’s meditate on the effects of baptism. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, baptism has many effects, including:

“Purification from sins: Baptism forgives all sins, including original sin and personal sins, and all punishment for sin.

New birth in the Holy Spirit: Baptism makes the baptized a new child of God.

Membership in the Church: Baptism makes the baptized a member of the Body of Christ and the Church.

Reception of sacraments: Baptism makes the baptized capable of receiving other sacraments.

Indelible spiritual mark: Baptism imprints a permanent spiritual mark, or character, on the baptized that cannot be erased.

Sanctifying grace: Baptism infuses sanctifying grace, which makes the baptized holy and an heir to everlasting life.

Theological virtues and gifts of the Holy Spirit: Baptism infuses the theological virtues of faith, hope, and love, as well as the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Share in the priesthood of Christ: Baptism gives the baptized a share in the priesthood of Christ.

Basis for communion with all Christians: Baptism provides the basis for communion with all Christians”. (CCC #1227)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Epiphany of the Lord (Year C)

let’s imitate the magi

january 5, 2024 | feast of the epiphany of the lord, Year C

Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalm 72; Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6; Matthew 2:1-12

The Epiphany or the manifestation of the lord to all nations was a feast very dear to the heart of St. Vincent Pallotti. Like a rising star (cf. Num 24:17), Jesus comes to enlighten all peoples and to brighten the nights of humanity (Isaiah 60:1-6). Now, by his light, all nations shall walk for he is the response to our restlessness. And how deep is our yearning and restlessness on this earth. The magi, through their journey of faith, invite us to discover in Jesus the true source of life and love and the true happiness and joy even in the midst of crisis and difficulties. The magi are at the search of their Saviour, the Lord carrying very symbolic gifts for the newborn child. Their journey found total meaning in adoration and worship.

“They prostrated themselves and did homage. They opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”

The three gifts manifest the identity of Jesus. Gold represents Jesus’s kingship and royalty; Frankincense represents Jesus’ divinity and is associated with worship. Myrrh, represents Jesus’ humanity, especially his death and burial. Today, the Lord calls us to imitate the Magi. Like the Magi, let us fall down and entrust ourselves to God in the wonder of worship. Let us worship God, not ourselves; let us worship God and not the false idols that are seduced by the allure of prestige or power, or the allure of false news; let us love God and not bow down before passing things and evil thoughts.

Prayer: O God, by the leading of a star you manifested your only Son to the peoples of the earth: Lead us, who know you now by faith, to your presence, where we may see your glory face to face.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the Gospel: Being the light of Christ in the world today!

Today Jesus, the newborn King, manifests himself as the light of the nations. He will invite his disciples in the sermon of the mount to be the light, which dispel darkness and help people.

"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden". (Mt 5:14-16).

How can I become the light of the world throughout the coming year 2025

In Matthew 25: 31-46, Jesus invites us to live out our faith by accomplishing good works: feeding the hungry, visiting the sick and being kind to one another.

Maybe you can share the testimony of the goodness of the Lord and the truth of the Gospel. Sharing your story to others. This can enlighten them on their journey. This can also bring hope and encouragement to others.

Trying to invite others to follow Christ by sharing the word of God with them and spending time with them and listening to them.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Holy Family (Year C)

strengthen the family

december 29, 2024 | feast of the holy family, Year C

Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14; Psalm 84; Col. 3:12-21; Luke 2:41-52

After every Christmas, the Holy Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Holy Family. On this feast, we reflect on the values that strengthen the family as the domestic church. Jesus, Mary and Joseph are given to our world as examples.

Respect for Parents

Jesus set an example of obedience to Mary and Joseph. In today’s Gospel, he returned to Nazareth and was obedient to them. (Cf Luke 2:51). The Feast of the Holy Family brings to our attention the love and respect of parents, which seems to lose its vigor and importance in our actual society. According to the Book of Sirach 3:2-6, honoring and respecting our parents is God’s commandment. Valuing our parent’s wisdom and guidance is a sign of love. It builds up a strong family foundation which is rooted in God's commandment. “Those who honour their father will have joy in their own children, and when they pray they will be heard”.

Love and Unity

According to today’s second reading, Colossians 3:12-14, the family is a place where members learn compassion, forgiveness, kindness, humility and patience. It teaches us about love and unity within the family. These virtues help maintain harmony and love within the family. Love is what holds a family together and fosters unity. It helps family members support each other through good times and bad. This creates happy and united families, where every individual plays his role. The happiness in the family could be sustained through prayer and discernment of God’s will.

We have our room in God’s Family

In the time of Jesus, family included the extended family. The Bible frequently speaks of the “House of David.” (Isaiah 22:22; Psalm 122:5; Amos 9:1; 2 Samuel 7:18). The head of the house represents the immediate family, the dynasty and the future lineage, including people who are not related by blood but who could become family through a covenant relationship. Today’s feast reminds us of our place in God’s family. We all belong to the Family of the Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We belong to the family of God, the Church, which is the Family of families.

Prayer

Lord, help us to honor and respect our parents. Guide us to love and unite our families. Show us our place in your family. Make our families one heart, full of love in the heart of Jesus through Mary and Joseph. Amen.

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo SAC

Living The Gospel this week : Honour and respect for Parents. Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14.

On this feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I suggest you read this passage of the Book of Sirach if possible with your family.

“For the Lord honors a father above his children, and he confirms a mother’s right over her children. Those who honor their father atone for sins, and those who respect their mother are like those who lay up treasure. Those who honor their father will have joy in their own children,

and when they pray they will be heard. Those who respect their father will have long life,

and those who honor their mother obey the Lord; My child, help your father in his old age,

and do not grieve him as long as he lives; even if his mind fails, be patient with him; because you have all your faculties do not despise him. For kindness to a father will not be forgotten, and will be credited to you against your sins”.

“Parents are the primary educators of their children. Children should then honor their parents” (Saint John Paul II)

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo SAC

Christmas Eve / Day (Year C)

All hearts in Bethlehem

Reflection on Christmas Midnight Mass December 24, 2024

Isaiah 9:1-6; Ps 95; Titus 2:11-14; Luc 2:1-14

Beloved in Christ, tonight the whole universe’s focus is in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Yes, Bethlehem, “House of Bread”,

draws our attention to Jesus who comes to us as the “Bread of life” who will satisfy our hunger and quench our thirst (John 8:35). Jesus wants to make every “Bethlehem”, that is a place of his birth. He is coming to dwell in our hearts and in our world in order to set us free from our darkness and give us peace and light. Isaiah reminds us that in Jesus, “the people who were walking in darkness have seen the great light and anyone who dwells in the land of gloom, a light has shone.” Yes in Bethlehem, the light is born to light up our lives.

In Bethlehem, Titus reminds us that the grace of God has been manifested to all people. Bethlehem invites us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live temperately, justly and devoutly. In today’s Gospel, we discovered that the first people to meet with Jesus face to face were shepherds, who usually were separated from the people; they lived with sheep and smelt like the sheep. They were on the margins of society. Bethlehem is once again a reminder that God loves the unlovely so shall we love those who are rejected, the unimportant, unloved and outcast. All are important in God’s eyes.

Finally, Bethlehem reminds us of the rejection of Christ by the famous people, the powerful of this world and the rich. “There was no room for Joseph and Mary in the Inn”. Today, Christ is still rejected in our world by the futile logic of war, the clash of arms, the hatred of one another, the discrimination, the rejection of others on the basis of race or tribe or origin, unforgiveness and unrepentance. But beyond all let Bethlehem be a great reminder of Mary and Joseph, the Shepherds and the magi who all set their hearts in Jesus. They did not speak, They worshiped. So let’s worship Him. “O Come Let us adore Him, Christ, the Lord”

The Word Became Flesh

Reflection on Christmas Day Mass

December 25, 2024

Isaiah 52:7-10; Ps 97; He 1:1-6; John 1 2:1-18

Dear Sisters and brothers in Christ, Christmas is all about love. The One who was eternally with God has come to visit us. Let’s reflect on the powerful word of St. John when he tells us that, “The Word became flesh”.(John 1:14) Because of his infinite love God assumes completely our human condition. The word flesh evokes our human frailty. The Letter to Hebrews tells us that:

“He had been made like us, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God.” (Hebrews 2:17).

He became flesh for our sake with no exception. Isaiah the Prophet, foresaw this: “All the end of the earth will behold the salvation of the Lord” (Isaiah 52: 10) Christmas reminds us that our troubles, our problems, our sins and all our

situations, wherever we may be are taken care of, if we welcome the Word made flesh in our lives. He wants to dwell among us so that we can be like the shepherds at the night of the nativity. They left their flocks. This is an invitation for us to leave behind us, the prison of our sorrows, the prison of our darkness, the prison of our prejudices, the prison of our past sins and the prison of old Adam in order to embrace the tender love of the God who became a child. Christmas is a time to put aside our masks and armour; In this beautiful season, may we let go of our fears and cast all our worries and cares on the newborn King and he will care for us (Cf Ps. 55:22). Jesus wants to take flesh in our hearts, and all he is looking for is an open heart. His eyes are alight with love for us. May we keep our Christmas heart open all the year round. (Jessica Archmint)

Merry Christmass to you all!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living The Gospel. What can I do this Christmas?

This question seems strange. Isn't it ? But Christ is about giving thanks to God the Father for the gift of his Son for our salvation.

We can never repay God for all that He has done for us. Pope Francis reminds us that gratitude is “the interior attitude that we should deem most important.” That is, we will want to live lives that are pleasing to Him, because what pleases Him is what makes us happy, and that means living a life of giving, not getting. May the spirit of Christmas, the season of giving, renew in us the desire to give gratefully always and in all ways, that God may be glorified and we may share His life forever in heaven. He is knocking, he wants to dwell in you. Please open your heart!

“It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you” (Mother Theresa of calcutta)

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo SAC

4th Sunday of Advent (Year C)

Schooled by the Blessed Virgin Mary in Advent

december 22, 2024 | 4th sunday of advent, Year C

Micah 5:1-4A, Psalm 80; Hebrews 10:5-10; Luke 1:39-45

On today's Sunday, we light up the angel’s candle (God’s love candle) and we are assisting at the most important, as well as the most beautiful encounters in the Bible story. Mary meets her cousin, Elizabeth and Jesus meets his cousin, John the Baptist. What would be the implication of such meetings in our journey of faith? During Advent, as Christians we learn many things from the Blessed Virgin Mary, including: Faith, Hope, Humility, Charity, Patience and Prayer.

Mary’s meeting with Elizabeth (Luke 1:39-45)

In today’s Gospel, the Blessed Virgin Mary, who had just said “Yes” to the angel, had chosen to become the vessel that will bear the Savior of the world. The Word of God tells us that she “set out and traveled to the hill country in a haste to visit her cousin, Elizabeth who is also pregnant with John the Baptist for six months. What can we learn from this visitation?

Mary’s journey of Faith is also ours

First, Mary travels to the hill country to Judah on a journey of faith. She believed in the word of the angel. Elizabeth told her: “Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled” (Luke 1:45).

A Christian’s life is a journey of faith. We must believe in God’s word just as Mary did.

Mary’s charity, humility and spirit of service

By visiting Elizabeth, Mary also expresses her love and charity through the spirit of service. She manifests the urgency of sharing the Good news. Advent and our entire Christian life is about bringing Jesus (the Good news) to others. Do we share the goodness of God with others? Are we effective soul winners? Do we show compassion to those in need?

Christ’s presence is our joy

The season of Advent invites us to be opened to the Holy Spirit after the example of Elizabeth. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth recognized Mary as “the mother of my Lord”. John the Baptist, still in her womb leapt for joy as an acknowledgement of the presence of the Messiah, the Son of God. The New and the Old testament have met and every prophecy is now fulfilled.

Like Mary and Elizabeth, the Church ought to respond to Christ's incarnation with open heart and exceeding joy. As Jesus filled Mary with the Holy Spirit, in the same way, his presence filled the Church with the Holy Spirit. As he dwelt in Mary as the Ark of the new covenant, so will he also dwell in the Church through the Eucharist. In Jesus, God’s love has filled our heart!

Prayer: Lord Jesus welcome in every moment of my life. Help me with your presence. May I open my heart to your love!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living The Gospel this week: The Hail Mary Prayer (Luke 1:28, 42)

On this third Sunday of advent, I suggest a little reflection on the “Hail Mary Prayer”. This little and simple prayer used by us Catholics is very powerful. It draws us closer to Jesus as we acknowledge the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the history of salvation. This prayer is rooted in the bible and is divided in two parts. The first part comes from the words of the Angel Gabriel (Luke 1:28) and Mary’s Cousin Elizabeth (Luke 1:42). The second part is a request, asking Mary to pray for us, especially at the moment of our death.

Mary is always ready to help us as she did at Cana (John 2:5) by praying for us, just like a good mother would. By saying the Hail Mary, you are not worshiping Mary, but you only ask for her prayers and her assistance. Mary is a humble servant of God, who tells us: “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5).

Let us always remember that: “the Hail Mary is the most beautiful prayer after Our Father and the most beautiful compliment to Mary”, St. Louis Grignion de Montfort. He “also believed that devotion to Mary is the most perfect devotion because Mary is the most conformed to Jesus Christ”.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

3rd Sunday of Advent (Year C)

Joy, an attitude of the Saint

december 15, 2024 | 3rd sunday of advent, Year C

Zephaniah 3:14-18a; Philipians 4:4-7; Luke 3:10-18.

What a beautiful invitation in today’s liturgy: “Gaudete in Domino semper” (“Rejoice in the Lord always”). In a world filled with depression, anxiety, troubles, problems, wars, business stress and loneliness, the invitation sounds as a relief and a solution to human joy and true happiness. Why shall we rejoice and what can keep us joyful in the Lord?

Reasons for rejoicing

Prophet Zephaniah (7th CB) tells us that God is in our midst, as a Mighty Savior; He will rejoice over us with gladness, and renew us in his love, he will sing joyfully because of us, as one sings at festivals. God has removed your punishment and turned away your enemies. God loves us. Jesus, the word made flesh, is the embodiment of God’s love. We are God’s beloved children. We must turn away from every evil and rejoice in Christ. We deserve to be happy. Let’s never be prisoners of hatred, of our sins, of our anger, our stress and of our struggles! Rejoice in the Lord always.

How can we sustain our joy in the Lord?

To sustain the spirit of joy, St. Paul suggests a few things. First, we should pray with gratitude. Through prayers, God transforms our sorrows into joy, our obstacles and problems into bridges and solutions. Let’s find joy in prayer. Second, St. Paul advises us to cast our anxieties unto the Lord so that the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, there is joy in gratitude. A grateful heart is a happy heart.

The Secret of joyful heart

In the Gospel, John the Baptist gives us the secret of Christian happiness. It resides in avoiding evil, - being generous, being satisfied for what we have and fulfilling our duties faithfully.

Always think for the good of others.

Christmas is the time of giving. Mother Teresa of Calcutta gives us an incredible example of the joy of the Gospel. She gave her entire life to the poor. She once said:

“We wait impatiently for paradise, where God is, but it is in our power to be in paradise even here on earth and from this moment. Being happy with God means loving like him. Giving like him; helping like him; serving like him”.

Being Happy is to be attentive to the needs of others. John the Baptist does not ask one to change their profession, but to exercise every vocation with charity, honesty and totally focus on the good of others. In other words, if you are a nurse, be good nurse or a good doctor; be a good priest, be a good deacon; be a good teacher; be a good parent; be a good civil servant; be a good soldier; be a good president; be a good minister; be a good Mayor; be a good officer. Do not say what is not true! Do not spread news that is not true! Do not take what is not yours! Liars don’t go to heaven.

“Do to others what you would have them do to you” (Mt 7:12).

This will give you joy in Christ. Satisfaction is not always about what we have, but the realization of how blessed we are for what we have.

“Gaudete in Domino semper!” (“Rejoice in the Lord always”)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the Gospel this week: Rejoicing in God’s Presence

“The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior” (Zephaniah 3:17)

We often overlook the power of the presence of God in our midst in our daily lives, especially in times of difficulties. On this third Sunday of Advent, Prophet Zephaniah reminds of the power of the presence of God amidst his people. He invites us to celebrate God’s presence.

1) God’s presence removes any fear because it is a loving presence. “There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18) – Meditate on what Jesus has done for you by removing any form of condemnation and judgment upon you!

2) When we feel anxious or worried, let’s find comfort in knowing that God is with us as a Mighty Savior. He loves us and will take care of us. He can do all things (Philippians 4:13)

May you find peace and safety and peace in God’s presence by visiting Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament for this week for few minutes of adoration as Psalm 16:11 reminds us that “In God’s presence there is fullness of joy; at his right hand eternal pleasure”

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

2nd Sunday of Advent (Year C)

Repentance and Restoration

december 8, 2024 | 2nd sunday of advent, Year C

Baruch 5-9; Psalm 126; Philippians 1:4-6,8-11; Luke 3:1-6

Take off your robe of mourning and misery

The reading of the Book of Baruch considered as an Apocrypha in the Catholic Bible is a good opportunity for the season of Advent. While conveying the message of hope and consolation for the Jewish people in exile, Baruch, Secretary of Jeremiah enjoins the exile people to admit that they are sinners and God who is faithful will grant pardon and mercy if they repent from their sins. This will enable them to return and find peace and justice in the Lord.

John call to repentance

John the Baptist, in the whole tradition appears to be one of the greatest preachers of repentance and the return to the Lord for the people of Israel. Quoting abundantly, prophet Isaiah, John the Baptist invites the people to receive the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin in order to prepare the way for God's salvation. “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. Every valley shall be filled and every mountain and hill shall be made low. The winding roads shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God”

This preaching of John of the coming of the Lord is a key theme of Advent. Let us respond to John’s and Baruch message today by repentance and reform of our lives. Like John, we are also call to be prophet of Christ by announcing the coming of Lord by our lives. Refusal of repentance is a refusal of the freedom of Christ, who freed us to live in freedom, not to indulge in the flesh but serve in love. (Galatians 5:1, 13-18) That is to live by the spirit and not by the desires of the flesh.

As we light the candle of peace, let’s prepare God’s way in our heart; let’s us make our crooked ways straight and right. Let’s put on the robe of God’s glory and righteousness. Amen.

Fr. Georges Bidzogo SAC

Living the Gospel this week: the candle of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

The candle of peace, represents the presence of the Prince of Peace. It is the second candle lit in the Advent wreath. It is Jesus Christ that brings peace in the world.

Peace is a gift from God and it is a sign of God’s presence filling our lives.

1) Are you at peace? Come, Holy Spirit of peace!

2) Why are you not at peace? Maybe because of my crooked ways.

Come Holy Spirit help me to make my ways straight. We cannot encounter Christ in crooked ways.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, prince of Peace”

(Isaiah 9:6)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

1st Sunday of Advent (Year C)

hope, love, and vigilance

december 1, 2024 | 1st sunday of advent, Year C

Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25; 1 Thesaalonians 3:12-4:2; Luke 2

Advent is the beginning of the new liturgical year. In four weeks, we are going to prepare hearts and lives for the coming of Jesus at Christmas and at the end of time. Through hope, love, and vigilance, we grow closer to Jesus.

Hope in God’s Promise

In the first reading, Jeremiah 33:14-16, speaks of God’s promise to bring justice and righteousness through a righteous leader from David’s line. God is faithful in fulfilling, we must learn to learn to wait with faith and patience. We are invited through this season to exercise our trust in God’s plans of love and justice and security. The Lord says:

“I will raise up for David a just shoot; he shall do what is right and just in the land…Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure” (Jeremiah 33:15 - 16)

Holiness and Conduct

The time of Advent is a great season of reformation of attitudes. Paul urges Christians to conduct themselves to please God by growing in love and holiness. To achieve this goal we are invited throughout this season: to pray daily to love one another, to meditate and obey God’s word, live in obedience to God’s will, participate in the mass, examine regularly your conscience and confess your sins, recite the Rosary and read spiritual literature. This is what the Psalmist invites us to do, lifting the soul to the Lord, seeking his guidance and truth. (Cf. Ps. 25:4)

Watchfulness

The time of Advent is also inviting us to be vigilant. In that way, Jesus would like us to stay alert, faithful and ready for his coming in glory.

”There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves” (Luke 21:25).

The vigilance will consist of avoiding becoming drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and anxiety of daily life. The Son of Man is coming in glory. Let’s stay alert and pray for strength to endure and stand before him. Before then, let us prepare ourselves to commemorate the coming of the God-Man, Jesus – Christ in the flesh.

Living the Gospel this week: The candle of Hope.

“But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.” (Micah 7:7)

The first advent candle is “Hope”. Hope is a confident expectation based on God's promises. It is a firm assurance in things unseen, anchored in the truth of God's character, even amidst difficult circumstances.

1) Light a candle of Hope this week regardless of what you face in life. Be assured that God will fulfill his word in your life.

2) The word of God is a solid foundation for perseverance and joy, regardless of your condition.

3) Prayer: Talk to God openly about your concerns and struggles, expressing your trust in His plan (10 minutes daily)

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo sac

Christ the King Sunday (Year B)

Jesus, our leader and savior

november 24, 2024 | christ the king sunday, Year B

Daniel 7:13-14; Revelation 1:5-8; John 18:33B-37

Today, Mother Church celebrates the Solemnity of Christ the King, which reminds us of the kingship of Jesus and His authority over all. The church invites us today to reflect on Jesus’ role as our leader and savior.

In order to celebrate the 16th centenary of the Council of Nicaea, Pope Pius XI instituted the Solemnity of Christ the King in 1925. On this occasion, the Pope proclaimed “Pax Christi in regno Christi” (“The peace of Christ in the reign of Christ”), in order to reassert the sovereignty of Christ over all forms of governments and the importance of peace for the entire universe. Christians of the whole world should give their loyalty and fidelity to Christ and his Church. They are invited to be builders and peacemakers.

Christ the King was also a serious challenge against the totalitarian governments of Mussolini, Hitler and Stalin all formed dictatorship and exploitation by the leadership in the world. Christ is our spiritual King and Ruler who died on the cross and who rules by humility, service, sacrifice, truth and love. After Christ's example, leadership is about service, sacrifice and solidarity with the poor. From today’s readings we have lessons to learn for our daily Christian living.

Corporate lessons from Christ as our King

1). The first reading from Daniel 7: 13-14 highlights that Jesus received eternal power, authority and dominions over all people, languages and nations. This means that Jesus is the Universal King who reigns for everyone. He is “the king of kings and the Lord of lords” (1 Tim. 6:15; Psalm 72:11-20). We must all bow and pay total allegiance to Christ as our King, not someone else. ““I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the one who is and who was and who is to come, the almighty.”

2) Today’s book of Revelation as well as the book of Daniel reminds us that unlike worldly kingdoms is Eternal. His rule never ends. “His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away his kingship shall not be destroyed.”

3) In today’s Gospel, Jesus defines himself not only as The King but also as the one who came to bear witness to the truth. (John 18:37) Jesus gives us guidance and sets us free. (John 18:33B-37). As a witness, Christ invites us to be witnesses of the Truth in our society.

4) As King, Jesus did not spare his own life; he shed his life and his blood as Sacrifice. (Revelation 1:5) We can only show true love by sacrifice and service for others.

5) Finally, celebrating Christ the King of the Universe is celebrating our Hope in Christ. Christ is our ultimate victory and his kingdom brings peace and justice. It is an eternal kingdom.

Prayer: Christ our Savior and our King renew in me allegiance to your kingship. I pray for the grace to place you above the powers of this world in all things

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the Gospel this week. How to go to heaven?

In John 3:16, we read: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life".

The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that salvation is a gift from God, and the normative way we receive that gift is through the seven sacraments, beginning with baptism (Catechism 1113ff.)

The Catechism of the Catholic Church understands the sacraments as sensible signs that Jesus Christ instituted to confer grace, i.e., divine life (CCC 1131; 1114-16).

Christ himself, the God’s man, his paschal sacrifice, his passion, death, resurrection, and ascension (CCC 613, 1085) is the foundation and the effectiveness of the sacraments.

1) Let’s work out everyday our relationship with Christ by partaking in the holy hour (will explain this next time), or Bible study, a life of faith and obedience to God’s commandment, daily desire of repentance.

2) Prepare your heart to receive Jesus in the sacraments, especially in the eucharist (confessions, coming to mass early, disposing your heart to be loved by Christ…). By doing this, we express our faith for St. John Chrysostom (349-407) pointed out that, “He that believes in the Son has everlasting life.”

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo sac

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)

The end of time!

november 17, 2024 | 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B

Daniel 12:1-3; Psalm 16; Hebrews 10:11-14, 18; Mark 13:24-32

The end of time!

We are almost at the end of the liturgical year. The readings invites us to reflect on the judgement on the last days when the Son of man comes. Thanks to Jesus’s offering for our sin once for all. In spite of a time of great distress Daniel in the Old Testament speaks about those who will rise from the dust, the saved. There will be a final judgment where the faithful will shine like stars. This gives us hope in the promise of the resurrection and eternal life with God. Jesus, the Eternal High Priest is the fulfilment of the hope, which demands of us a new way of life.

Jesus’s predictions of the end of time

Let’s note that Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel are spoken to prepare his disciples for his upcoming passion and death. Christians in the time of Mark, that is, 30 to 40 years after Christ, were living under political turmoil in Rome. Some Christians were persecuted by Emperor Nero (about 64 A.D.) Jewish revolutionaries rebelled against the Romans, which led the Romans to destroy the Temple in Jerusalem in 70 A.D. This is the context that led Mark to remind them of Jesus' words of hope in times of trouble and tribulation. Jesus' return is certain and will ultimately bring victory to the faithful ones. The disciples needs not to be afraid but to be watchful and prepared for the final judgement for no one knows neither “the day nor the hour”

Signs for the nearness of the end of time

Jesus himself offers his disciples signs that will indicate that the coming of the Son of Man is near. Drawing from the Old Testament imagery, especially images found in the Book of Daniel, Jesus mentions the darkening of the sun, which symbolizes the judgement and the fact that rulers of this world will be defeated. Jesus also mentioned that “The moon will not give its light” in order to express the loss of clarity, direction and security. The disciple would have to trust in Christ’s direction, guidance and security. Jesus also revealed that:

“the stars will be falling from the sky and the powers in the heavens will be shaken”

which is an expression of God’s power over creation.

Lesson of the fig Tree

By introducing the fig tree in this section, invites the disciples to learn how to read the signs of time in order to be prepared for the end times. This is pivotal for every Christian who is called to repent and to bear the fruits that God expects of us.

To conclude, Jesus’ words to us on this Sunday are not spoken to frighten us or anybody, but they offer us hope and an opportunity to prepareourselves for his coming in glory. Our consolation and hope is found in the lasting nature of Jesus’ words and God’s never-ending love for us.

Prayer: Lord help us to live wisely and lead others to you. Thank you for Jesus’s sacrifice that makes us holy. Strengthen our faith and give us hope in difficult times. Amen.

Living The Gospel this week: Hope in tribulation

Today’s Gospel focuses on Jesus’ teachings about His return in glory. Jesus describes a world in turmoil, with nations breaking down, natural disasters, family divisions, darkening of the sun, and the moon, the breaking down of the sky and persecution. Many events and situations cause fear in our lives. We should not be frightened as christians. Jesus’s victory on the cross is our assurance.

1. Let’s watch and wait with confidence, knowing we will rejoice with Christ forever.

2. Think of God as “our refuge and strength, our help in times of trouble” (Psalm 46:1-3)

3. When troubles come our way let’s not fear, for the Lord is always with us as he promised. “Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10)

“Endure with Christ, suffer for him, if you wish to reign with him.” Thomas a Kempis (1380-1471 A.D.)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)

Do I trust God or do I trust myself?

november 10, 2024 | 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B

1 Kings 17:10-16; Ps. 146; Hebrews 9:24-28; Mark 12:38-44

Last Sunday’s reading was reminding us about loving the Lord with all our soul, with all our mind, with all our strength. However, we often have in the Bible, people who trust in themselves (the Scribes, the Pharisees, the rich, the proud, the self-sufficient who did not need God or his help) instead of trusting in God and those who depend on God for everything called the “ah-nah-weem” (anawim), these include, the humble, the afflicted, the poor, the widows and orphans, the strangers and all the most vulnerable of the society who put their trust in God. Jesus, by contrasting the attitude of the prideful attitude of the Scribes as opposed to the total surrender of the widow into God’s hands, is reminding all us that:

“Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom (trusting the Lord) are kept safe”. (Proverbs 28:26)

The proud Scribes

Jesus warns us today as he did in his own time of the pride, hypocrisy, clericalism and deceitful attitudes of “the proud scribes” who were religious leaders in Israel.

“Beware of the Scribes” (Mark 12:41)

Sometimes, we might all be caught up in this attitude of narcissism, radicalism, self-centeredness, religious abuse and drawing excessively attention to ourselves rather than giving attention to the Lord and to others. Sometimes we too, stay in the way of God by exploiting those who are vulnerable. Christians should not at any time miss the focus on God and seize the opportunity they have to serve the poor and the marginalized. Jesus was always pointing our focus on the Father. All our entire lives should point at the service of God who always shows mercy and abundantly blesses those who love, obey and trust in him like the widow of Zarephath.

“The jar of flour shall not go empty, nor the jug of oil run dry, until the day when the LORD sends rain upon the earth.”

(1 Kings 17:15)

Humility and self-giving

Opposed to the attitude of self-praise, megalomania, prestige and self-esteem, and excessive desire to be noticed of the scribes Jesus admires and commends the interior charity, generosity, and humble offering of the poor widow. He says:

“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in

more than all the other contributors to the treasury” (Mk 12:43).

This widow had given from her heart all that she had.

“For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” (Mark 12:44).

She manifests above her mighty trust and fidelity in God. Jesus does not want us to miss this beautiful teaching on what true faith in God is. It is investing ourselves completely in him. It is when we give the Lord everything that is, trusting totally in the Lord without retainer and holding anything back. By giving all she had she expressed her faithfulness and total trust in Jesus our High Priest and Mediator before the Father.

Having admiration for simple and humble people

Like Jesus, I know most of us have great admiration for many people in our Churches today. I personally admire so many people in our Parish among the staff, the ministries, and other parishioners, maybe not as they put in the basket collection, but as they portray their faith, their love, their service and their unfailing trust in the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, help us to trust in you like the widow did. Guide us to give from our hearts without seeking honor or praise, especially to the less fortunate. May our faith be sincere and our sacrifices real. Amen.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO sac

Living the Gospel this week: Psalm 146:7: “Praise the Lord, My Soul”

The LORD keeps faith forever,

secures justice for the oppressed,

gives food to the hungry.

The LORD sets captives free.

Take this week to thank and praise God in good times and in bad times of your daily life!

Read Psalms 100; 111; 95:1-7; 92; 89; 30.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)

focus on love

november 3, 2024 | 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B

Deut. 6:2-6; Ps 17; Hebrews 7:23-28; Mark 12:28-34.

Today’s liturgy focuses on the love of God and of neighbor. This is practiced in the Old

Testament in a form of prayer known: “Shema” (Deut. 6:4-9; Deut.11:13; Num. 15:37) which

was fulfilled by Jesus Christ himself. “Master which is the first commandment? He replied:

“The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.”

Jesus himself the High Priest who manifested his love by dying for us and now he sits in heaven and he intercedes for us.

A story of love from Mother Theresa

There is a story about Mother Teresa. She went to prayers every day, and every day was distracted by a nun sitting a few rows behind her who clicked her rosary beads. She started getting annoyed by this unseen nun, wishing she could just pray quietly and not impose on her silent prayer with that constant clicking. Then she realized she was not loving towards that other nun. So she started to pray for that nun every time she heard the clicking of the beads. Soon she would listen out for the comfort of the clicking, knowing that the nun was well. One day when she couldn't hear the clicking she worried that the nun may be ill, and prayed that she and the clicking would return.

Our love must be concrete

Through the story of Mother Theresa, we see the love Christ is talking of, a love that is total and sacrificial. It is not easy love like Christ. It’s difficult for some people including Christians to love strangers, or people from different races and tribes or nations. It’s even harder still for some of us to love someone who offends or harms us. Yet that is what Christ does, he loves us all. Invite us to love even our enemies and persecutors (Cf. Luke 6:27-36). Our love for God must be seen in the love we have for every human being. Saint John tells us that:

“Anyone says, “I love God” and hates his brothers and sisters is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen is a liar” (1 John 4:20)

We need to pray for the gift to love those we don’t know, and those we dislike. Let’s pray that we may be patient, kind, never jealous, never belittling others, never boastful, never conceited, never rude or selfish. Let's delight in the truth and always be ready to trust, to hope and to persevere in love for we have only One God, Father of us all.

Today you have been commanded, go out and work at love. Go and Love your God, Go and Love everyone. And know that you are loved, your God loves you, and so do I love as your Pastor.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Living the Gospel this Week. All souls and pious list for the dead

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

In the Catholic Church, the month of November is consecrated to the prayer for the dead. The Book of Maccabees, specifically 2 Maccabees 12:39-46, describes Judas Maccabeus and his men praying for the dead and offering a sacrifice to atone for their sins. Today we offer the Holy Mass, the sacrifice of Christ Jesus for the expiation of the sins of the world (Cf. Hebrews 9:12). During the month of November the Church invites us to various practices in honor of our deceased loved ones such as: decorating the tombstones, lighting candles, praying the rosary and especially offering masses for the repose of their souls. As you are well aware in our Diocese in general and in most of our Parishes, we do not always have enough space for everyone to offer as many masses as they should, especially during the month of November. In line with our Diocese, we offer an option for people to offer masses which will be celebrated by missionary priests in difficult areas.

The Diocese of Lansing indeed encourages its parishioners to submit Mass intentions specifically for missions, highlighting the importance of praying for missionary work and supporting the spread of the Gospel in other areas through their "Mission Co-op Appeal Programs". Through these programs, the Diocese would like parishioners to raise both prayer and financial support for mission churches and seminarians in developing countries. The Diocese essentially, would ask people to include mission work in their prayer intentions, these could include requesting Masses to be said for them or by them. Our Parish offers you that opportunity which enables you to request Masses for your loved ones. All Masses will be said by missionary priests working in very difficult areas and the report will be given back to you after the celebration of those Masses.

In her Diary St. Faustina says: “I saw my Guardian Angel, who ordered me to follow him. In a moment I was in a misty place full of fire in which there was a great crowd of suffering souls. They were praying fervently, but to no avail, for themselves; only we can come to their aid.” Please, they need our prayers. They need our help.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let the perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC