Seeking indulgences

Living the Gospel this week. Seeking indulgences

The Catholic Church understands indulgences as a remission of temporal punishment due to sins that have already been forgiven. The punishment could earthly suffering or time spent in purgatory.

The divine Mercy Sunday offers us an opportunity to receive a plenary indulgence. How? We must be in a state of grace, detached from all sin, and participate in prayers and devotions in honor of Divine Mercy in the presence of the Blessed sacrament. We must recite the Our Father, the Creed and say a prayer for the Pope. Additionally, one should have confession and holy communion on Divine Mercy Sunday.

With Saint Augustine, would love us to understand that: “Each opportunity to obtain an indulgence is a wonderful opportunity to grow in holiness.”

(St. Augustine)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Greater love for Easter

Living the Gospel this week. Greater love for Easter. John 15:13

How do I make my Holy week meaningful with my family this year?

With the celebration of the palm Sunday, we enter into the Holy week. This week can be challenging. Here are some ways to help you make it meaningful and holy.

Sit down as a family to prepare for Holy Week. Involve all who live with you into the preparations. Don’t just give them the jobs you dislike.

Set time aside for common prayer by reducing the time of your social media. Take time to read and share the Good News of the Passion with your family. Divide into at least 5 to 6 parts. Or else watch the passion of the Lord together.

Find time for the sacrament of reconciliation that helps you to seek forgiveness and to forgive others.

Pray the stations of the cross, especially on Friday. Make time for the celebrations of the triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday night Vigil or the proper Easter Mass on Sunday).

Remember: "Greater love had no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

Fr. Georges sac

How Do We Resist Sin?

Living the Gospel this week. How Do We Resist Sin?

As we are getting close to the Holy week, let us look at ways that could help us resist sins and regain the joy of our salvation (Psalm 51:12)

As a reality, which is always before us (Ps 51:3), we need God's grace to overcome sin.

Most saints have insisted on the grace of regular confession of our sin as one good way to resist and conquer sin (James 5:16).

We fight sin through the power of God’s Word like Jesus in the desert (Mt 4:1-11). We learn to apply the Scriptures to our lives daily. (2 Corinthians 10:5, Ephesians 6:10-20).

We can resist by fleeing from temptations as Joseph did, literally running away from it (Genesis 39:1-23) and pursuing righteousness and holiness through constant prayer. Let's always remember the biblical advice from the Apostle James: "Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)

Happy 5th Sunday of Lent!

Fr. Georges sac

Be reconciled with God

Living the Gospel this Week.

Be reconciled with God

Paul in this Sunday’s second reading, tells us that through Christ, God reconciled the world to Himself. We are called to be reconciled with God and others.

In his apostolic exhortation “Reconciliation and Penance”, St. John Paul II writes:

“To speak of reconciliation and penance is for the men and women of our time an invitation to rediscover, translated into their own way of speaking, the very words with which our savior and teacher Jesus Christ began his preaching: "Repent, and believe in the Gospel," (1) that is to say, accept the good news of love, of adoption as children of God and hence of brotherhood.”

Who do I need to reconcile with in my family? At Church? Within my community? Will I try to make the first step this week and finalize the process before the Holy week?

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Bearing good fruits

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

Living as Citizens of Heaven

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

Time, Trust and Surrender

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

I confess (The Confiteor Prayer)

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

Praying for your enemies

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

Living the Gospel this week. Two ways of Living

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

Listening to God’s word

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

The role of Mary in our Christian faith

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

Effects of 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

Being the light of Christ in the world today!

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

Honour and respect for Parents.

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

What can I do this Christmas?

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

The Hail Mary Prayer

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

Rejoicing in God’s Presence

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

The candle of peace

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

The candle of Hope

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