“Keeping the Flame Alive”

Dear Parishioners,

        As we enter the final weeks of the liturgical year, the readings for this Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time invite us to pause amid our busy lives and look ahead with hope. The autumn air reminds us that seasons change, and the liturgical season points us toward the fulfillment of God’s kingdom. Today’s liturgy asks us to be ready in spirit and to consider whether we are keeping our faith alive or letting time slip by.

        The first reading from the Book of Wisdom promises that Wisdom is “resplendent and unfading” and easy to find for those who love and seek her. This connects to Psalm 63, where we pray, "My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God." Wisdom is not only for scholars; it is a gift we can find in our church, our homes, and in helping others. To receive this wisdom, we need to desire it and seek Christ’s presence in the Eucharist and among those around us.

        The Gospel makes this call even stronger through the parable of the ten virgins waiting for the bridegroom. Five were foolish and brought no extra oil, while the other five were wise and brought extra oil for their lamps. The oil symbolizes the grace and personal relationship with God that we cultivate through prayer, the Sacraments, and acts of charity. We can’t borrow this oil at the last minute; we need to gather it bit by bit in our daily lives.

        As we gather this November, a time to remember those who have died, St. Paul offers us great comfort: we do not grieve like people without hope. Because Christ died and rose again, God will bring with Him those who have died in Him. For our parish, this reminds us to look forward to victory rather than to fear. We hold fast to the promise of the resurrection, pray for our loved ones who have died, and look ahead to the great banquet in heaven, where all tears will be wiped away.

       When we think about being quietly ready, we can look to our patron, St. Joseph. The Bible records no words from him, yet we see his obedience, devotion, and strong faith. He was always prepared to protect and care for the Holy Family, and he listened to God’s guidance. If we follow his example, our parish can become a welcoming home and a community prepared for Christ.

        Let’s carry Sunday’s message with us throughout the week and reflect on the 'oil' in our lamps. Being ready isn’t just for Sunday; it shows in how we treat others, care for our families, and serve. As we move through the week and into Advent, may we stay awake and watchful, joyful in hope and steadfast in prayer, so that when the Bridegroom comes, He finds us ready to join the wedding feast.