From the Pastor's

Marriage

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:00:07 GMT

Come and See!

Marriage is so very important. When I prepare couples for marriage, one of the statements they consider is, “After we are married, it will be important for us to devote time to yearly enrichment.” This upcoming retreat is designed to do exactly that. This retreat is intended to sustain, enrich, and, if needed, even improve your marriage. This is not marriage counseling. If your marriage is great, come and see; if your marriage is doing well, come and see; if you might need a bit, come and see; experience something new.

CCC 1660 The marriage covenant, by which a man and a woman form with each other an intimate communion of life and love, has been founded and endowed with its own special laws by the Creator. By its very nature, it is ordered to the good of the couple, as well as to the generation and education of children. Christ the Lord raised marriage between the baptized to the dignity of a sacrament.

Peace, Father M.

Generosity and Lent

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Generosity and Lent

Dear Missionary Disciples in Jesus Christ,

Thank you all for your generous pledges to the Capital Campaign. Our campaign is going well. If you have not yet pledged, please prayerfully consider how God is calling you, so all of us can participate in the Campaign.

I hope that Lent is going well for each of you as you practice Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving. If you have failed with any of your resolutions, let this remind you of our need for Jesus—because “Apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) Take heart, and start again.

Peace, Father M.

How's it going?

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:27:18 GMT

How is your Lent going?

How is your Lent going? At the beginning of Lent, it is a good time for us to meditate on how we are doing as disciples. The season of Lent encourages us to look at our lives while also challenging us to penetrate any self-deceit in our current missionary discipleship. By reading the weekday Gospels, you will see that the Disciples of Christ face many demands. Take up your cross daily, love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you, be a servant to others, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, etc.

Lent is an excellent time to look at our lives and see through our inflated egos regarding our being good disciples. However, you say, "I do that. I love my enemies.” "AND. "I give food and clothing to the poor." Hmmm.

"I serve."...

Is there more that you can do? How often and how much? Do you exalt yourself? Do you truly take up your cross daily and follow Christ?

If we reflect on a disciple's characteristics, we may see how we fall short of these demands. We need Jesus Christ. Let me repeat that. We need Jesus Christ. We need Our Lord - His grace, strength, concern, and most importantly, His love. All are available in the Sacraments - especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation.

Another significant way to be open to the grace, help, and aid of Our Savior is through prayer. Pray unceasingly, says Paul. Lent is a time to increase/intensify our prayer life.

Mother Theresa went to daily Mass and would spend, we are told, hours - yes, hours - in prayer every day. This communion with God enabled her to become the saint we know.

Come to pray at Mass and at some of our Lenten prayer opportunities.

Try Lectio Divina, say the Our Father several times throughout the day, take some time to read Sacred Scripture, Join us every Tuesday for the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Pray the rosary and the chaplet of the Divine Mercy, have a conversation with God while still in His presence, think about His love for you, and say a novena or another "formula" prayer. Just pray.

Peace, Father Maassen (reprinted and edited)

Lenten Season

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Lenten Opportunities

Dear Missionary Disciples in Jesus Christ,

I thought I would write you a letter listing all the opportunities for Lent and give you our Easter schedules. Let this letter also serve as an invitation to return to Assumption and/or SFB Parishes, if you have been away. You are most welcome to come home.

As always, the Season of Lent is a time of penance. We have many opportunities for you to experience and know the love and mercy of our Lord. If you have been away from the Church or if you have missed a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation without a serious reason, then you will need to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation before receiving the Eucharist. Confessions are held at both parishes; see the bulletin for details. During Lent, on March 15 at 7:00 p.m., we are pleased to open SFB for a combined evening of Reconciliation. During this penance service with Our Lady of Lourdes as well as our two Parishes, there will be several priests available.

There will be Stations of the Cross on every Friday of Lent at 6:30 p.m. at Assumption and at 7:00 p.m. at Borgia. We have little black prayer books for daily prayer and meditation. As we move further into Lent, the churches are open for you to spend some time in the presence of Jesus; he is always here in the tabernacle.

The Easter Triduum is the culmination of the entire liturgical year. It begins with the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, April 2. These Masses at both Parishes are at 7:00 p.m. Good Friday Celebration of The Passion of the Lord is 3:00 p.m. at Borgia and 7:00 p.m. at Assumption.

Easter Vigil times are pending the Office of Worship at the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Easter continues into Easter Sunday—April 5. Our celebrations will be at 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. at SFB and at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. at Assumption. (There will be no 6:00 p.m. Mass)

Please come and pray with and for your fellow parishioners. My hope and prayer is that this season will be an opportunity for grace and a time to grow in the love of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Please call me if I can help you in any way during this Lenten Season.

Peace, Father Maassen

Welcome to Lent!!!

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 21:00:01 GMT

Welcome to Lent!

Welcome to Lent!

The 18th was Ash Wednesday, the day on which Lent commenced. In the Catechism, we read, "Lent is the liturgical season of forty days which begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with the celebration of the Paschal Mystery (Easter Triduum). Lent is the primary penitential season in the Church's liturgical year, reflecting the forty days Jesus spent in the desert in fasting and prayer."

On Ash Wednesday, when the priest or minister distributes ashes, he has two options to say: "Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return," or "Repent and believe in the Gospel." The words "repent and believe in the Gospel," echo the first public preaching of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 1:15). This message proclaimed by Jesus and the Apostles urges us to change the direction of our lives, to adopt a new way of thinking and acting, to turn away from sin, and embrace the discipleship of Jesus Christ.

What is repentance? The Greek word "metanoia" means "to change your mind," and the Hebrew counterpart means "to return." On Ash Wednesday, we receive ashes as a reminder of our death and a sign of internal repentance. Therefore, Lent, a season of repentance, helps us follow Christ more closely, deepen our relationship with Him, and leave sin behind so we will inherit a share in the Resurrection.

If you have been away for months, years, or decades, please come back. You are always welcome here. We are offering a Combined Parish Reconciliation Evening at Borgia on Sunday, March 15th, from 7:00-8:00 pm. You can always schedule the reception of the sacrament of Reconciliation with any priest. In addition, there will be an opportunity for Reconciliation after the 9:00 am Masses on Sundays during Lent and on the Monday during Holy Week from 6:30-8:00 pm.

If you have missed a Sunday Mass without a serious reason, know that God's mercy and forgiveness await you in the sacrament of Reconciliation. This needs to happen before receiving the Holy Eucharist. Know that God's love and mercy are always available to you! As a reminder, the regular times of opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and our current Mass schedule are in the bulletin. We also have Exposition of the Eucharist on Tuesdays following the 8:00 am School Mass through 6:15 pm.

If there is anything either of the priests here can help you, please call the parish office at 636.239.6701 x 1510

Peace, Father Maassen

Exposition OR Adoration...

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 21:00:01 GMT

Did you know...

Eucharistic Adoration is the act of worshipping Christ present in the Blessed Sacrament, which can occur while the Host is in the tabernacle or exposed on the altar (Exposition). While adoration is the general act of devotion, Exposition is a specific liturgical rite, often communal, in which the consecrated Host is placed in a monstrance for public veneration, typically ending with Benediction.

Key Differences and Relationship

Adoration : The act of worship/devotion. It can be done anytime before the Blessed Sacrament, whether in a tabernacle (reserved) or exposed.

Exposition : The setting or ritual act of displaying the Blessed Sacrament in a monstrance for adoration. It requires specific, ordained ministers to expose and repose the host.

Relationship: Exposition provides a special, intense focus for Adoration. Adoration is the broader, continuous devotion, while Exposition is a specific, structured time of public worship.

Key Aspects of the Rite

Exposition: The Blessed Sacrament is removed from the tabernacle and placed in a monstrance on the altar.

Adoration: The faithful spend time in silent prayer, contemplation, or song in the presence of the exposed Eucharist.

Benediction: The final blessing of the faithful by the priest or deacon with the monstrance.

Reposition: The Blessed Sacrament is returned to the tabernacle.

While they are often used interchangeably, they are distinct aspects of Eucharistic devotion, with Exposition being a formal, often public, form of Adoration.

ArchStl Bicnetenial Jubilee 2026

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 20:00:03 GMT

200th Jubilee

The Archdiocese of St. Louis Bicentennial Jubilee began Jan 1st, 2026, and it will continue through December 31st, 2026. This Jubilee Year marks a significant milestone as we prepare for the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Diocese of St. Louis on July 18, 1826. It is a time to celebrate and honor our rich Catholic heritage, deepen our faith, and recommit ourselves to carrying the light of Christ into the future. During the Jubilee Year, let us allow God to surprise us. He never tires of casting open the doors of His heart and of repeating that He loves us and wants to share His love with us.

God has called us as his Church to be, above all, a credible witness to mercy, professing it and living it as the core of the revelation of Jesus Christ. From the heart of the Trinity, from the depths of the mystery of God, the great river of mercy wells up and overflows unceasingly. It is a spring that will never run dry, no matter how many people draw from it," says Pope Francis.

Please visit https://archstl200.org/ for resources about the Jubilee Year 200th anniversary, including a list of pilgrimage sites in the archdiocese, prayer, and information on indulgences. The Bicentennial Jubilee isn’t just a celebration of 200 years; it’s an invitation to reconnect with a faith that has the power to shape a city. It honors a legacy of faith that has guided generations while inspiring a future full of hope for all who call this Archdiocese home.

A great year to experience and be ambassadors of the mercy of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

January’s prayer of Thanksgiving for 200 years of Grace -

We pray in thanksgiving for the gift of Catholic faith in the Archdiocese of St. Louis over the past 200 years. May we honor the legacy of those who came before us by living with renewed joy, hope, and commitment to the Gospel.

Indulgence...

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:30:01 GMT

God has freely chosen to associate man with the work of His grace.

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

A young boy becomes angry at his friend, so angry that he throws a rock at his friend's house. He breaks the beautiful $20,000 stained-glass window in the house where his friend lives. He becomes sorry, and His father takes him over to the neighbor's house to apologize to the owners and his friend. The owners and the friend tell the boy they forgive him. This would be analogous to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Sin hurts us and others. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, God forgives us our sins, but what of the damage done by our sins? In the Sacrament, we are reconciled to God and the Church.

The owner of the house forgave the boy, but he still has no stained glass window. The father of the boy tells his son he wants him to do the dishes for a month and say an Our Father and a Hail Mary each day for his friend. After the month, the father pays for a new stained glass window. This is analogous to indulgences. It is not a perfect analogy. God freely associates…*The merit of man before God in the Christian life arises from the fact that God has freely chosen to associate man with the work of his grace. The fatherly action of God is first on his own initiative, and then follows man's free acting through his collaboration, so that the merit of good works is to be attributed in the first place to the grace of God, then to the faithful. Man's merit, moreover, itself is due to God, for his good actions proceed in Christ, from the predispositions and assistance given by the Holy Spirit. (*Catechism of the Catholic Church 2008 )

Please know that any communication that comes to me anonymously carries little merit and will be addressed accordingly.

Peace, Father Maassen

Thank you & Plenary Indulgences

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 20:30:02 GMT

Thank you & Plenary Indulgences

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ

(those who love Jesus by keeping his commandments and love His mission of salvation)

Blessed and joyful new year to all! You are in my prayers.

Thank you for all your prayers and for your gifts of food, gift certificates , money, and other items. Thank you so very much!

Thank you to all who decorated the church and all liturgical ministers who participated in so many ways over Christmas. Thank you for giving so generously to our Outreach Giving Tree and for all the work put in by the organizers. We are still in the Christmas season, which ends this Sunday, January 11, the Baptism of the Lord. Many Blessings.

With the start of our Archdiocese 200th Jubilee, please find the below explanation from the Catechism on Plenary Indulgences, and merit.

1471 The doctrine and practice of indulgences in the Church are closely linked to the effects of the sacrament of Penance.

What is an indulgence?

"An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints." ⁸¹ "An indulgence is partial or plenary according as it removes either part or all of the temporal punishment due to sin." ⁸² Indulgences may be applied to the living or the dead.

1472 To understand this doctrine and practice of the Church, it is necessary to understand that sin has a double consequence. Grave sin deprives us of communion with God and therefore makes us incapable of eternal life, the privation of which is called the "eternal punishment" of sin. On the other hand every sin, even venial, entails an unhealthy attachment to creatures, which must be purified either here on earth, or after death in the state called Purgatory. This purification frees one from what is called the "temporal punishment" of sin. These two punishments must not be conceived of as a kind of vengeance inflicted by God from without, but as following from the very nature of sin. A conversion which proceeds from a fervent charity can attain the complete purification of the sinner in such a way that no punishment would remain.

2008 The merit of man before God in the Christian life arises from the fact that God has freely chosen to associate man with the work of his grace. The fatherly action of God is first on his own initiative, and then follows man's free acting through his collaboration, so that the merit of good works is to be attributed in the first place to the grace of God, then to the faithful. Man's merit, moreover, itself is due to God, for his good actions proceed in Christ, from the predispositions and assistance given by the Holy Spirit.

Here is an analogy: say a child gets angry, takes a rock, and throws it through the neighbor's $10,000 stained glass windows. Later, the child feels remorse, and Dad takes the neighbor to apologize. The gracious neighbor forgives the child, but the cost… the boy cannot in any way pay for the window. So the Father has the son do the dishes for a week, and his Dad says one Our Father and one Hail Mary, then the Father pays for the window.

When God forgives us in the sacrament of Reconciliation, yes, our sins are forgiven, but what of the effects of those sins? How are they made right? Hence, indulgences as God can freely associate our actions with the work of His Grace!

Peace, Father Maassen

What direction...?

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 20:00:02 GMT

What direction???

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ, (those who love Jesus by keeping his commandments and love his mission of salvation)

Blessed and Joyful New Year to all!

Thank you to all who decorated the church and all who participated in so many ways over Christmas. We are still in the Christmas season, which ends on January 8th, the Baptism of the Lord.
Thank you for all your prayers and for your gifts of money, gift certificates, food, and other items. Thank you so very much.

I am praying that you all have a joyful, Holy New Year.

I was driving recently and somehow ended up going the wrong way. I could have tried to find an alternate route in the direction where I wanted to go, but finally, I just said, " The heck with it, and I turned around.
Sometimes in life, we take a wrong turn or head in the wrong direction. We can stop. We can turn around. We can change our course. Just maybe our willpower isn't enough… We may need to get out of the car and into another one.
Years ago, I read an interesting book about willpower. The author's basic premise was how our environment significantly affects us - our friends, what we see, what we listen to, what we read, and how we schedule our time. It has an incredible effect on us. His advice seemed to focus on our willpower.
If you head in the wrong direction in life and do not follow Jesus Christ through our Catholic faith, then what about our environment? Is our environment conducive to following Jesus Christ? Does it need to change? Do we need to get in another car? Is Sunday Mass the center of our week? (a most necessary environment.)
Many people make New Year's resolutions and fail. Statistically, most fail, which is very interesting. Creating and controlling our environment is the answer. (See above).
Regardless of life's circumstances, there is an opportunity for joy. I have witnessed this in the laity, which is so beautiful.

Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Maassen

Advent is HERE!

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 20:30:00 GMT

Advent is Here!

Dear Missionary Disciples of SFB, and Assumption Parishes,

Advent is upon us. We begin our Advent season this Sunday, Nov. 30. Advent also marks the beginning of our new

liturgical year.

Advent is a season of our liturgical year in which we focus on the preparation for the Solemnities of Christmas and look

forward to Christ's Second Coming.

"When the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year, she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for by sharing in the long preparation for the Savior's first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for his second coming." Catechism of the Catholic Church para. 524

Let us commit to a year of prayer or possibly recommit. A new year of strengthening our prayer life, both communal, especially at the Holy Mass, and in private personal time with God. There is an ongoing opportunity for formation, growth, and education in this liturgical year.

Advent into Christmas is a season of opportunity for growth in Jesus Christ. All the sacraments, such as the Eucharist and Reconciliation, are opportunities to encounter Jesus Christ. Through these sacraments, we experience the presence of Christ in our lives, strengthening our faith and deepening our relationship with Him.

In the lobby of the churches, as well as in Jesuit Hall (SFB), we will also have available the Little Blue Book -Advent and Christmas Seasons 2025-2026. The daily reflections include the Christmas Season, which ends with the Baptism of the Lord on Jan. 11.

May you enter more deeply into the mystery of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit through prayer and the Sacraments.

Peace,

Father Maassen

Spiritual Direction?

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 20:30:00 GMT

Spiritual Direction?

From the Pent of Father Tim...

When I get a call asking me for Spiritual Direction, I immediately respond ‘what is your goal? How do we know when we have achieved the goal of Spiritual

Direction?’ The answer is often a generic goal of, ‘I want to be holy.’ While truly noble, that really is not concrete enough.

So, perhaps there is a need for an exercise to help people know what they are aiming for. These are questions I recommend you ask of your self. So where in your life do you feel you are not holy? Is it a lack of prayer? Is it Spiritual Doldrums? Is a desire to grow closer to God? Are the Ten Commandments and the moral life being lived out? If Spiritual Direction is to be effective, we have need to zero in on what the issues are. If it is sin? What are the sin’s triggers? What steps have already been taken to stop sinning? Have any of the simple steps been taken to stop or reduce the sin? What does the prayer life look like?

Truly, if Spiritual Direction is be of benefit, the Directee has need to be self-aware; a Directee has need to discern a concrete goal that can be measured; the Directee has need to realize the work is on their part – not on the Director.

What spiritual direction is not: it is not counseling; it is not a replacement for a 12-step program; it is not to challenge the Church’s longstanding teachings. It is to grow in God’s Church.

Whether one seeks Spiritual Direction or not, these few brief steps can help all of us isolate and understand our Spiritual Goals we seek for our journey to Heaven. Let us be careful out there.

Gossip... Truth and FIction

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:31:53 GMT

Gossip...

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

The souls of your servants...

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 19:31:37 GMT

The souls of your servants...

I stumbled onto a documentary on Bob Hope, focused on his very long service visiting troops at the front. There were even times that shows had to be stopped because of air raids or artillery barrages. He continued to visit men even when he had pretty much retired from Hollywood. He would also made a point of stopping in hospitals – and his costars said he literally had to go to a private spot to cry when a badly burned soldier raised his hand and thanked him for stopping by.

General William Westmoreland actually said that if he were an enemy, he would sacrifice 10,000 men to get him. This was how important Bob Hope’s visits were. If you wonder why I beat the snot out of praying for the dead, that is what your prayers are to the people in purgatory. You are a gift of love through your prayers on their behalf that help these men and women get through their period of purgation and move them along to Heaven.

A more Biblical analogy: you are the Lazarus who dips your finger into water to refresh those men and women who are undergoing their cleansing. You are a gift of love through your prayers on their behalf that help these men and women get through their period of purgation and move them along to Heaven. I was reminded on Tuesday by a kind young teen of the prayer of St. Gertrude for the good of the dead.

E ternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the masses said throughout the world today, for all the holy souls in purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen.

A bsolve, O Lord, the souls of Your servants [and the souls of all the faithful departed] from every bond of sin, that in the glory of the resurrection, they may be revived and refreshed among Your saints and elect through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Religious Intolerance???

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Religious Intolerance?

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

In an article I read recently, the author mentioned religious intolerance at least twice. I am not sure what they meant, but there seems to be some confusion in this area.

In this article, the writer seemed to equate being "gay" with one's racial or ethnic heritage. They are not the same. One does not choose one's parents or racial background. Today, there is an open debate on whether one chooses their sexual orientation, but certainly not a debate on choices, what a person does is vastly different than what they are. I believe the quoted term 'gay' implies living a particular lifestyle. Orientation may or may not be a choice, but unequivocally, what you do is a choice. Activity - what we do, can be good or bad, i.e., sinful. All sin . It seems that if something is declared sinful, ( any sin ) you risk being called intolerant.

Jesus always welcomes the sinner, but not the sin. Everyone is made in the image and likeness of God and deserves reverence and respect. Regardless of race, size, place of residence, or sexual orientation. However, the old adage, LOVE the sinner and hate the sin ( all sin ) is appropriate. (not just the hot topic sins of the day)

In Luke Chapter 15 (by the way, an excellent chapter for understanding the Sacrament of Reconciliation, which I recommend for everyone's preparation as Advent approaches). We read, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." Luke 15:2.
Being a sinner myself, I say, "Thank you, God"

However, Jesus doesn't condone or support sin ( any sin ) in any way, but LOVES the sinner. He teaches us what is sinful and continues to do so through Sacred Scripture and the Teachings of his Shepherds, the Pope and the Bishops in union with him. Jesus has been shepherding us continually through his church. Another Scripture passage is helpful:

"Neither do I condemn you. Go and from now on, do not sin any more." John 8:11

Peace, Father Maassen (reprinted and edited with permission)

Prayer?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 19:00:03 GMT

Prayer?

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

Prayer?

Prayer is raising your heart and mind to God. Prayer is conversing with God. Sometimes we may think we don't have time to pray. This thought is just not true. “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me as a sinner.” How long did that take to read?

We can pray at any time, anywhere, quietly or out loud. “Come, Holy Spirit, enkindle in me the fire of your love.” Perhaps that took a little longer. Both the Our Father and the Hail Mary take seconds. Our Father is the prayer that Jesus explicitly gave to his apostles. Recently, I have tried to recite the Angelus three times a day. The Angelus prayer takes less than a minute and is customarily recited at 6 a.m., 12 p.m., and 6 p.m. “Thank you, Father Son Holy Spirit, for my life, my breath, my heartbeat.” You can also offer prayers of thanksgiving throughout the day.
Last Sunday, we heard Jesus tell a parable about how we should always pray and not lose heart. In the Catechism, paragraphs 2743 and 2744, there are two lines I want to highlight: It is always possible to pray, and prayer is a vital necessity. We can all pray throughout the day, while doing tasks, walking, and working.
Do we take time out, just for prayer? We can pray with Sacred Scripture. Just look up how to do Lectio Divina, and you will find some simple directions. We can meditate, think about God, God's love for us, etc., we can have a conversation with God, or we can just listen. The Rosary is a meditative prayer.
We all have 24 hours a day. Suppose we sleep for eight hours and work for eight hours, that leaves us with 8 x 60 =480 minutes. Just 5% of that would be 24 minutes. Or 24 minutes would be 1.6% of the 24-hour day. Let's just begin

Peace,

Father Maassen

Here at home...

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 14:44:38 GMT

Two things...

Dear St Francis Borgia,

Thank you all for your participation and generosity. As I wrote last week, we are undertaking several vital endeavors. The surveys we initiated before the Eucharistic Sacrifice last week are integral to what we hope to accomplish through Communio. Why are we doing this? Simply, to improve our lives, enhance marriages, and most importantly, to bring people to Jesus Christ, especially at Mass, the Source and Summit of all Christian life.

I recently received a bid of $100,000 for a new roof for the rectory. We have bids and estimates for all types of work on our various buildings, ranging from those built in the 1800s to our youngest building, constructed in 1935. We are seeking your input on the possibility of launching a capital campaign. Your input will help determine whether we proceed with a capital campaign.

As always, thank you for your generosity in the offertory. The offertory is about our Mission, which is the Mission of Jesus Christ. The parish exists to bring people to Jesus Christ, to love and follow Him, so that they may be joyful in this life and completely joy-filled in the life to come.

In Christ Fr. M

Who is # 1?

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 19:30:00 GMT

Who is # 1?

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

What I write applies to all of us. In other words, I am also writing to myself. Everything is a gift from God. I believe I need to be more intentionally grateful. What do I mean? I need to pray prayers of thanksgiving for all that God has given me, much more frequently. By the way, there are studies in positive psychology that indicate people who are grateful and practice such are happier. These studies are no surprise, as we read in Sacred Scripture, and we hear and pray this at Mass.

I am also meditating on the challenging Gospel from September 7th. The Gospel we proclaimed was from Luke 14:25-33. In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2544 references that Gospel. In it we read, " Jesus enjoins his disciples to prefer him to everything and everyone, and bids them 'renounce all that they have for his sake and that of the Gospel. Shortly before his passion, he gave them the example of the poor widow of Jerusalem who, out of her poverty, gave all that she had to live on. The precept of detachment from riches is obligatory for entrance into the kingdom of heaven. This Gospel speaks to each of us personally, urging us to detach from worldly possessions and prioritize our relationship with Jesus.

The question of what to do with all that we have is a very important one for all of us. For this reason, almsgiving is not just important, it is crucial for all of us. Our willingness to give to those in need is a direct reflection of our commitment to the Gospel and our readiness to enter the kingdom of heaven.

Peace, Fr. M

Thank YOU!

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:30:00 GMT

Thanks!

Dear Missionary Disciples in Jesus Christ,

We want to share our heartfelt thank you to all those involved in putting on two incredible events, our annual Fall Festival , and our 2 ^nd annual SFB Golf Tournament . Both were a great success, which is not possible with those working so hard behind the scenes. An army of volunteers worked many hours to bring us these events; without them, the Committee Chairs and members of each committee would have made these successful events unachievable. Thank you.

OCIA is starting this month. See the bulletin for info. OCIA is, in simple terms, is the process of being baptized and/or coming into the Catholic Church. If you know anyone who is searching, looking for ‘more’ in life, please invite them to join and learn more about Jesus Christ and our incredible Catholic Faith.

Peace,

Father Maassen

Crisis

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 20:40:48 GMT

Crisis...

Dear Parishioners,

The new Mass and Confession schedule is now available. Some will be fine with it, while others will express the 'why did...' sentiment. We surveyed all two parishes and all three churches, and used those results to create the new schedule. St. Paul has become a non-parish church. This means that St. Paul Parish has merged with Assumption, but the actual church is to remain open.

A couple of weeks ago I highlighted the shortage of priests. The issue is more complex than just a lack of vocations. There has been a significant drop in Mass attendance over the decades. In the late 1950s, approximately 62% of Catholics attended Mass on a weekly basis.

In 1970, that dropped to about 60%. In 1974, attendance fell to 47% and remained around that level in the mid-1980s. Currently, about 24% of Catholics in the United States worship weekly, i.e., going to Mass.

The crisis, I believe, lies in loving and believing in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Loving Jesus Christ and worshipping God go hand in hand. If you think you love God but don't worship God, it would be comparable to a spouse skipping birthdays, anniversaries, etc, to watch a football game with their friends. We need to worship to sustain and renew our relationship with God. God needs nothing. We choose to love God by worshipping at Mass. At every Mass, we are mystically present and participate in the one sacrifice of Jesus Christ at Calvary. We give praise and thanks in the manner Jesus gave us, the Mass. We encounter Jesus Christ most excellently and intimately this side of death, in the Eucharist.

Please don't cut off your nose to spite your face. In other words, please don't hurt yourself out of anger towards whomever or whatever. In the Catechism, we read paragraph 2181, ‘The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. For this reason, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Eucharist on days of obligation, unless excused for a serious reason (for example, illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their own pastor. ¹¹⁹ Those who deliberately fail in this obligation commit a grave sin.’

Peace, Father Maassen

Perspective...

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 21:55:09 GMT

Perspective...

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

The other day, as I was praying in the church, it reminded me of a time when I used to do the same before coming to SFB Par-ish. As I sat on the right side of my former church, directly to the right of center, it really looked as if the tabernacle was situated on the right side of the altar.My altered view prompted me to consider perspective, the way we perceive situations, people, and their actions. In many situations, we are prone to making assumptions, jumping to conclusions, and becoming angry, or offended often before we have a clear understanding of a given situation. Patience in understanding the full context is key. People may relate something and leave out relevant facts or information.

I have experienced this firsthand and with others. There are often two sides to every story, and of-ten just hearing the situation from one side is not accurate. Let me be clear, though, we do believe in objective truth, right, and wrong. These are not just abstract concepts, but realities that guide us and reassure us in our faith journey.

I am also aware of how language is used, either intentionally or unintentionally, in a way that is mis-leading or inflammatory. If you have ever read a legal petition suing for injuries by someone who got some bruises, you may wonder how they can even move. Now, there are times when we do know most everything, and anger is probably an appropriate response. "

Anger: An emotion that is not in itself wrong, but when in anger, we do not use controlled reason. This emotion can harden into resentment, which can evolve into hatred, and ultimately become one of the seven capital sins.

Christ taught that anger is an offense against the fifth commandment. (See - Catechism of the Cath-olic Church) In whatever we are facing, offer our emotions to Him and he will bring you peace. Live and proclaim what Christ teaches as truth, forgive and love.

Peace.

Fr. Maassen

P.S. They will know we are Christians by our love. Let this message of love remind us that we are part of a community bound by love and faith.

Service...

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 19:30:00 GMT

Serving our Lord is not an option for Disciples of Jesus Christ; it is a way of life.

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

Each of us is called to serve our brothers and sisters, a task that brings immense joy and fulfillment. We are all capable of this service. Serving others is a concrete way in which we love our neighbors, as Christ has commanded. The best way to serve our brothers and sisters is by helping them love and follow Jesus Christ. We must also serve them by taking care of their needs, as commanded in Matthew chapter 25.

We have many opportunities at SFB Parish to do both. Serving our Lord is not an option for Disciples of Jesus Christ; it is a way of life. A good question to ask ourselves is, "How am I serving?" For those who have limited abilities or physical limitations due to our state in life, one of the greatest is to pray for your brothers and

sisters. Prayer is a powerful form of service, and you can always pray, doing so daily for those in need.

On September 9th , we are hosting an appreciation dinner for all those who volunteer at SFB. If you

volunteer for anything in the parish, you qualify. Our dinner is an opportunity to come together as a community, to grow in our discipleship, to enjoy one another's company, to have great food, and to have fun. There is plenty of room left. If you wish to come, please use the QR Code or call the number listed.

Remember, all volunteers are invited, and your presence will be greatly appreciated.

Peace,

Father Maassen

The best of times, the worst of times...

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 19:00:02 GMT

The best of times, the worst of times...

Dear Missionary Disciples,

You may believe these are the worst of times or the best of times; it depends on what you consider essential. There have always been troubles in our world, and as far as I can tell, there always will.

My simple thought is to live in Jesus Christ. How? By staying in constant contact with our Lord in the Sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation. Developing or continuing a daily prayer life is not just necessary, but a discipline that will keep you spiritually focused. Following Jesus Christ's teaching through His/our Catholic Church is essential. Remember, your goal is to share in the divine life of the Trinity for all eternity, whatever the cost.

Sometimes people are looking for a reason to be angry or offended. Sometimes we live in the country of anger at the capital city of: "People do not act, believe, or speak in the way I expect."

The f ollowing is an excerpt from St. Paul to the Ephesians 4:30 - 32.

"Brothers and sisters: Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with which you were sealed for the day of redemption. All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting, and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice, and be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another, as God has forgiven you in Christ."

In Jesus Christ,

Father Maassen

Eucharistic Miracle... frauds being perpetrated?

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 21:00:00 GMT

Is AI destroying Faith?

Last week, I was speaking about a Eucharistic Miracle that had occurred about 10 years ago. The Bishop of the Diocese was being very careful about making a declaration as to the authenticity of that Eucharistic Miracle. It is not my intention to declare the rectitude of the Bishop or if it is a Miracle or not. Yet, as I was preparing that homily, I thought this is something all of us – including me – have need to be careful. There are a lot of frauds being perpetrated.

There is a fraudulent picture of St. Jacinta of Fatima, incorrupt. This picture has even found its way into major league religious texts. Now, St. Jacinta’s body is incorrupt; I have seen an authentic photo of her. But the fraudulent photo depicts her in a coffin, and the family of St. Jacinta Marto was entirely too poor to have had a coffin. She was instead wrapped in a shroud. This kind of fraud – a picture of her in a coffin, again, her family was too poor to afford a coffin – destroys Faith.

Now imagine with AI: AI can manipulate photos, movies, and voices. There are a number of websites putting out homilies or speeches of Pope Leo XIV, and they are false. And it is not the liberals alone who put out this doctored up junk; it is not conservatives or orthodox alone who put out this doctored up junk… it seems it is just plain fraud. With AI, they can put out videos showing the Sacred Host Bleeding or Beating like a Heart.

Now, these sorts of Miracles have TRULY occurred. Yet, the sad reality is that in this day and age, you have to be careful of the content and let it be investigated thoroughly – be it a supposed or real homily, be it a supposed or real Miracle.

With the advent of powerful AI tools – and they are VERY powerful- it becomes an imperative on our part to be skeptical of anything put out, be it a supposed speech or homily of some major church figure or an alleged miracle.

Let us be careful out there.

Retirement?

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Retirement?

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

I see retirement as a beautiful spring that may or may not happen or last very long. I hope I'll experience it. (Retirement age for priests is 75.) Have you noticed, Jesus never talked about retirement? We are constantly called, as missionary disciples of Jesus Christ, which, if you are reading this, you are, to serve.

Jesus expects us to dedicate our precious time, energy, and talents to help build up the Church, to "love one another" as He commanded, regardless of whether we are retired from a job or a career. At SFB parish, we have incredible people who give of themselves to help continue Jesus' commission. To that end, we would like to express our sincere gratitude.

We are hosting a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on Tuesday, September 9th , for anyone who volunteers for our parish, serves on a committee, or helps with ministries and programs, from 6 pm to 8 pm. We look forward to celebrating your service and dedication at this special event. Open to the first 200 RSVPs. Information on how to RSVP along with more details will be available soon.

I have heard parishioners say it's the same old people volunteering for this ministry or that activity. Together let's change that. When you serve the parish, you serve the mission of the Church; you serve Jesus Christ. Yes, even volunteering and participating in any of the Parish events is serving; it is discipleship. Your service is not just a task, but a vital part of our community's growth and the fulfillment of our mission. What is our mission? The mission of Jesus Christ is, in a word, Salvation.

Serving helps build community and enriches your own life, enabling you to help others become Missionary Disciples of Christ. What is a Missionary Disciple of Jesus Christ? One who loves Jesus and strives to carry out his mission. SFB Parish offers numerous opportunities to get involved. Never underestimate the power of your service. I encourage you to start today.

Peace,

Father Maassen

"I work hard for the lifestyle we have; therefore, I have earned it."

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 20:00:00 GMT

"I work hard for the lifestyle we have; therefore, I have earned it."

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ

Every year, the Archdiocese designates a Sunday as Stewardship Sunday, we are not there now but it brings to mind some of our misguided ideas. The basic idea if is to remind us all about stewardship, or as I would call it, discipleship.

I think stewardship brings to mind for most of us giving money, which is only an aspect of stewardship. It is challenging to admit that everything comes from Our Father. "I work hard for the lifestyle we have; therefore, I have earned it." Perhaps that is the obstacle to understanding that we belong to God, everything we are and have ultimately has its source in God. How do we use what God has given us? How do we utilize the time, skills, talents, and, yes, even our financial blessings as good stewards or as disciples of Jesus Christ? How do we give back?

Think about generosity. Again, not primarily on generosity with your wealth, but with your time, skills, and talents. How do you give back to God through the parish? How do you thank God for what HE gives you? Most of us have a worldview of our gifts (our talents) that enable us to make a living, sometimes much more than just a loving, as 'my own'. But, ask yourself about pride? Then consider your time, skills, and talents as God-given treasures and see if your view changes. Embrace this change as a journey of personal growth and inspiration.

There are many ways to volunteer in the parish. Your involvement is not just appreciated, but it is integral to the functioning of our church community. If you don't see something, consider starting that particular ministry or service. Your initiative can make a significant difference.

Through Baptism, each Catholic, gifted with the grace of being a steward of God, is then called to be a disciple of this grace. God fills us with His life, enabling us to find joy in serving others. This joy is a profound source of fulfillment and happiness. God showers us with blessings so we will have gifts to share.

Read these opening words of their pastoral letter a number of years ago, from the US Catholic Bishops, then perhaps reread it...

"Once one chooses to become a disciple of Jesus Christ, stewardship is not an option."

Peace,

Father Maassen

Vocations...

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:30:00 GMT

Are you criticizing?

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ

One man was ordained a priest in May for the Archdiocese of St. Louis. One man was ordained a transitional deacon, which means he will likely be ordained a priest next year. As one was ordained a priest, five retired, and at least two in active ministry died. One being Fr. John Deken, who was the pastor of Assumption in New Haven and St. Paul in Berger.

You might be thinking, 'That's not good news.' Correct! Further, I believe that within 15 years, there will be half of the priests we currently have in the region. This statement is my prediction. I want to make that clear so you're aware of it.

What can we all do? Pray for your priests and vocations. I know I certainly appreciate it when someone tells me that they pray for me. Thank you. You can encourage young men to consider a vocation to the priesthood through prayerful reflection. Please pray for God to lead these men into His service. I have heard on more than one occasion of parents discouraging the vocation to Holy Orders. Is this surprising?

What else can you do? Please stop criticizing your priests, especially in a public way. Please support them and encourage them. Priests are certainly not perfect, and if you have any issues, please schedule a face-to-face meeting. Live faithfully and proclaim Jesus Christ and our catholic faith from the rooftops. Sunday Mass is undoubtedly a necessary part of living one's faith, as is serving one's neighbor and professing one's faith. To sum it up, worship, serve, and proclaim.

A significant factor that prompted this letter is the decree concerning St Paul in Berger. I want to add that the parishioners there have been warm, welcoming, and genuinely grateful. The decree that St Paul parish will merge into Assumption, while the church remains open for the right of entry, was issued on May 24th, 2023. The decision was upheld after every appeal. This decision means that there is no longer a St. Paul parish, and the parishioners are now members of the Assumption parish. Please pray for all parishioners affected by the decree.

Blessed Mother, St. Paul, and St. Francis Borgia, pray for us.

In Christ, Fr. M

Thank you

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 20:30:08 GMT

Thank you!

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I write you today to express my profound gratitude for the generosity of parishioners throughout the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Our region has withstood an unprecedented number of tornadoes, straight-line winds, and powerful storms over the past few months. Since March of this year, our neighbors have been displaced, structures have been damaged, and members of our community have suffered injury and death. In these hours of despair where hope seems all but lost, Catholics in St. Louis have responded with love, compassion, and sacrifice.

I am mindful of the challenges these storms have presented for our Church. We have several buildings with severe damage, parishioners who find themselves unhoused, and communities in turmoil. And yet, in every tragedy, there has been hope. In every loss, there has been comfort. And in every setback, there has been a resolve to rebuild.

Twice now, we have asked parishes to engage in special collections for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Your generous response on each occasion has been an inspiration to those on the front lines. Thanks to your support, with the most recent tornado, Catholic Charities has been able to respond to nearly 3,000 urgent requests for assistance, providing food to the hungry, delivering essential supplies, helping families secure stable housing, and offering compassionate care to those with the greatest needs.

At the same time, Catholic Charities is working with those affected by other tornadoes in Washington County, Perry County and Jefferson County. Catholic Charities will be with those in need for the long haul. Your overwhelming generosity empowers us to be present in the hardest-hit areas and will play a critical role in the long road to recovery for our neighbors.

On behalf of myself, President and CEO of Catholic Charities, Dr. Jared Bryson, and all those who have been affected, I wish to express my sincerest thanks for your sacrifice. As I consider the many gifts we have been given, I am mindful of Psalm 23, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil: for thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff comfort me.” We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ, to spread not just his message of peace, love, and mercy, but to exemplify his unceasing care for the vulnerable and those who are hurting.

I am incredibly grateful to the many families who have given us the means to respond in love. Please know of my ongoing prayers for you and my deep appreciation for the generosity and compassion of Catholics in the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Mitchell T. Rozanski

The preservation of what makes this nation worth preserving...

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 20:00:01 GMT

The preservation of what makes this nation worth preserving...

As we celebrate the Fourth of July this coming week, three thoughts come to mind: the preservation of what makes this nation worth preserving, recent developments, and God.

It goes without saying events internally and abroad are a bucking bronco – a wild or semi-wild horse that tends to buck or kick while being ridden. But the desire for a nation of peace has need to go back to look at what our Founding Fathers saw as important. Our Founding Fathers based our nation on something called the natural law – a law God implanted in all human hearts. It is a law that for the good of humanity that all should respect. And in this lies the heart of nation that we should revere, protect, and defend with our hearts. The ability of our nation to grow, prosper, and survive depends on this God-given gift. In short, we have need to stand by her – come what may. The Western Roman Empire fell when it lost its hunger to exist; the Eastern Roman Empire survived when its emperor reignited the hunger to exist.

As we see the recent developments in our world: war and rumor of war, there is need for us to have the courage to defend what we have with heart as well as to know when to not fight. War does not come with any guarantees. For our nation to be ready and survive whatever happens in the world around us, there has need to be a hunger for our nation’s growth, prosperity, and survival. It was this sort of hunger that brought our nation into existence. And may God bless us that we never see war again, but should it come: we will need this hunger: never again will this homeland be an island bastion. Should war come home to us; we will feel it directly. It is a hunger for what this nation once held as sacred that will allow us to navigate the future.

And to navigate the future, we will all the more have need of God. We have need of Divine Wisdom… not human wisdom, Divine Wisdom for our nation to walk in our world today. Pray to God for the gifts of Wisdom, Understanding, Perseverance, Prudence, Faith, Hope, and Charity. Pray to God that Peace – Shalom, right relationship with God – shall prevail. God bless our nation.

Let us be careful out there!

- Father Tim

Amen...

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:34:51 GMT

Say Amen...

As we celebrate the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, when the minister of the Most Holy Eucharist says, ‘ the Body of Christ ’ or ‘ the Blood of Christ ’, a fair number souls – not everyone to be sure – say nothing. While it is true that under the Extraordinary Form of the Mass, the priest is the one who says ‘Amen’, under the Ordinary Form, it is the tradition that the soul receiving Holy Communion replies ‘ Amen ’ .

The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us, ‘In Hebrew, amen comes from the same root as the word 'believe." This root expresses solidity, trustworthiness, faithfulness.’

If the reason one does not say ‘ Amen ’ is because he or she does not believe in the Real Presence of Christ – His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity Truly Present in the Sacred Species, one should not be receiving Holy Communion. Christ would expect one to live by their beliefs.

Please say ‘ Amen ’ ; it is not difficult and it is the right thing to do.

Please, let us be careful out there!

- Father Tim

Who ya talking about...

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 21:17:34 GMT

Who ya talking about...

Dear Missionary Disciples,

It's disheartening to see that negative talk about others has become a prevalent activity in our society. When we engage in such discussions, are we truly loving God and our neighbor? Are we contributing to the building of the kingdom of God?

I recall that when I was in the Seminary, I must have been talking about someone in a negative context, and a friend of mine told me, "You never used to talk badly about anyone." It was a valuable reminder for me to reflect on how I speak about others, and it remains a valuable reminder to this day. I hear so many people criticizing others, such as pastors, etc.

One of my professors, during the same period, said, 'If you are talking about someone, you should be talking to them.' From the Catechism paragraphs 2477 and 2478, "respect for the reputation of persons forbids every attitude and word likely to cause them unjust injury. ... To avoid rash judgment, we should all avoid trying to interpret our neighbor's thoughts, words, and deeds in a favorable way."

Remember, the Golden Rule is a guiding principle that helps us discern, in concrete situations, whether or not it would be appropriate to reveal the truth to someone who asks for it. As it says in the Catechism, 'Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.' This is the law and the prophets (Matt: 7:12). What a great way to prepare ourselves for Jesus Christ.

P.S. Did you know that Waldo, a figure often used in popular culture to represent someone who is difficult to find, is a reminder that we should not be judgmental or critical of others, but rather seek to understand and love them as God does?

Peace,

Fr. Maassen

What Guides us?

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 16:20:42 GMT

What Guides Us?

Dear Missionary Disciples:

The other day, as I was sitting outside in the bright sunlight, I was thinking, what is the light in our personal lives? What guides us? Does the word of God, the teaching of the pope and bishops, Sacred Scripture? Do we allow the Holy Spirit to speak? The Holy Spirit, as the advocate promised by Jesus, guides us in understanding and living out the teachings of the Church.

Are these the things that guide us, or do we let the world guide us? As Catholics, we believe that the teachings on faith and morals expressed beautifully in the Catechism of the Catholic Church are our Lord's guidance on how to love and live. Jesus said, "The Father will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever, the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you."

I am saddened by how often we let a commentator, analyst, celebrity, or the thoughts of some or many in society be our guide or light. We need to reaffirm our commitment to listen to Christ, let Him be our light, and let Him guide us. He does this through the teachings of His Church. Let us not forget that His voice is the one we should always strive to hear above all others.

May the peace that comes from following Christ's teachings be with you always.

Peace, Fr. M

What cha wearin...

Fri, 30 May 2025 19:34:57 GMT

What cha wearin...?

Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,

I've heard this before: "God doesn't care

what I wear as long as I'm there." (I edited

the comment to make it rhyme, just for fun.)

I know we are to keep the second commandment, which is "You shall not take the name of the LORD, your God, in vain." If reverence for God's name is essential, then indeed reverence for being in His presence (i.e., the Eucharist) would undoubtedly be even more critical.

Does my clothing reflect my thoughts and feelings about a specific endeavor or place? I may wear a suit, tie, or tuxedo when attending a formal event. When I attend a funeral or wedding, I usually wear nicer clothes. Why do I do that? If I dress for Mass as if I am going to a picnic, does that mean I equate the two events? Do I dress up for events and places that are more important?

Is there anything more important than the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, the God event of love par excellence, the Sacred Liturgy?

What would I wear to the Last Supper, the crucifixion, the Resurrection?
Would it reflect what I think or feel about the event?

Is what I wear not only a reverence for God but also a reflection of how I reverence my brothers and sisters in Christ? You may say if they object, that's their problem but is that a loving attitude? I can't answer these questions for you, but I hope you ask them of yourself.

Peace,

Father Maassen (reprinted and edited)

Pope Leo XIV

Fri, 16 May 2025 14:55:23 GMT

Pope Leo XIV—

First public homily of, given at a Mass for the

College of Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel May 9, 2025.

I begin with a word in English, and the rest is in Italian, but I want to repeat the words of the responsorial psalm: I will sing a new song to the Lord because he has done marvels. And indeed, not just with me, but with all of us, my brother cardinals, as we celebrate this morning, I invite you to recognize the marvels that the Lord has done, the blessings that the Lord continues to pour out upon all of us. Through the ministry of Peter, you have called me to carry that cross and to be blessed with that mission, and I know I can rely on each and every one of you to walk with me as we continue as a church, as a community of friends of Jesus, as believers, to announce the Good News, to announce the Gospel.

"You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Mt 16:16). In these words, Peter, asked by the Master, together with the other disciples, about his faith in him, expressed the patrimony that the Church, through the apostolic succession, has preserved, deepened and handed on for two thousand years.

Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God: the one Saviour, who alone reveals the face of the Father.

In him, God, in order to make himself close and accessible to men and women, revealed himself to us in the trusting eyes of a child, in the lively mind of a young person and in the mature features of a man (cf. Gaudium et Spes, 22), finally appearing to his disciples after the resurrection with his glorious body. He thus showed us a model of human holiness that we can all imitate, together with the promise of an eternal destiny that transcends all our limits and abilities.

Peter, in his response, understands both of these things: the gift of God and the path to follow in order to allow himself to be changed by that gift. They are two inseparable aspects of salvation entrusted to the Church to be proclaimed for the good of the human race. Indeed, they are entrusted to us, who were chosen by him before we were formed in our mothers’ wombs (cf. Jer 1:5), reborn in the waters of Baptism and, surpassing our limitations and with no merit of our own, brought here and sent forth from here, so that the Gospel might be proclaimed to every creature (cf. Mk 16:15).

In a particular way, God has called me by your election to succeed the Prince of the Apostles, and has entrusted this treasure to me so that, with his help, I may be its faithful administrator (cf. 1 Cor 4:2) for the sake of the entire mystical Body of the Church. He has done so in order that she may be ever more fully a city set on a hill (cf. Rev 21:10), an ark of salvation sailing through the waters of history and a beacon that illumines the dark nights of this world.

And this, not so much through the magnificence of her structures or the grandeur of her buildings — like the monuments among which we find ourselves — rather through the holiness of her members. For we are the people whom God has chosen as his own, so that we may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called us out of darkness into his marvelous light (cf. 1 Pet 2:9).

Peter, however, makes his profession of faith in reply to a specific question: "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" (Mt 16:13). The question is not insignificant. It concerns an essential aspect of our ministry, namely, the world in which we live, with its limitations and its potential, its questions and its convictions.

"Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" If we reflect on the scene we are considering, we might find two possible answers, which characterize two different attitudes.

First, there is the world’s response. Matthew tells us that this conversation between Jesus and his disciples takes place in the beautiful town of Caesarea Philippi, filled with luxurious palaces, set in a magnificent natural landscape at the foot of Mount Hermon, but also a place of cruel power plays and the scene of betrayals and infidelity. This setting speaks to us of a world that considers Jesus a completely insignificant person, at best someone with an unusual and striking way of speaking and acting. And so, once his presence becomes irksome because of his demands for honesty and his stern moral requirements, this "world" will not hesitate to reject and eliminate him.

Then there is the other possible response to Jesus’ question: that of ordinary people. For them, the Nazarene is not a charlatan, but an upright man, one who has courage, who speaks well and says the right things, like other great prophets in the history of Israel. That is why they follow him, at least for as long as they can do so without too much risk or inconvenience. Yet to them he is only a man, and therefore, in times of danger, during his passion, they too abandon him and depart disappointed.

What is striking about these two attitudes is their relevance today. They embody notions that we could easily find on the lips of many men and women in our own time, even if, while essentially identical, they are expressed in different language. Even today, there are many settings in which the Christian faith is considered absurd, meant for the weak and unintelligent. Settings where other securities are preferred, like technology, money, success, power, or pleasure.

These are contexts where it is not easy to preach the Gospel and bear witness to its truth, where believers are mocked, opposed, despised or at best tolerated and pitied. Yet, precisely for this reason, they are the places where our missionary outreach is desperately needed. A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, appalling violations of human dignity, the crisis of the family and so many other wounds that afflict our society.

Today, too, there are many settings in which Jesus, although appreciated as a man, is reduced to a kind of charismatic leader or superman. This is true not only among non-believers but also among many baptized Christians, who thus end up living, at this level, in a state of practical atheism.

This is the world that has been entrusted to us, a world in which, as Pope Francis taught us so many times, we are called to bear witness to our joyful faith in Christ the Saviour. Therefore, it is essential that we too repeat, with Peter: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Mt 16:16).

It is essential to do this, first of all, in our personal relationship with the Lord, in our commitment to a daily journey of conversion. Then, to do so as a Church, experiencing together our fidelity to the Lord and bringing the Good News to all (cf. Lumen Gentium, 1). I say this first of all to myself, as the Successor of Peter, as I begin my mission as Bishop of Rome and, according to the well-known expression of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, am called to preside in charity over the universal Church (cf. Letter to the Romans, Prologue). Saint Ignatius, who was led in chains to this city, the place of his impending sacrifice, wrote to the Christians there: "Then I will truly be a disciple of Jesus Christ, when the world no longer sees my body" (Letter to the Romans, IV, 1). Ignatius was speaking about being devoured by wild beasts in the arena — and so it happened — but his words apply more generally to an indispensable commitment for all those in the Church who exercise a ministry of authority. It is to move aside so that Christ may remain, to make oneself small so that he may be known and glorified (cf. Jn 3:30), to spend oneself to the utmost so that all may have the opportunity to know and love him.

May God grant me this grace, today and always, through the loving intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church.

Electing a new Pope

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:40:45 GMT

In case you were wondering... How the new Pope is elected

Election of the New Pope -

Please join in praying for the Cardinals and the process, Come Holy Spirit.

The Conclave to elect the 267th Pope will begin on May 7th, following the conclusion of the Novemdiales Masses to pray for the eternal repose of the late Pope Francis. The Cardinals present in Rome have agreed to begin the Conclave on May 7th, 2025. The date was set by the 180 cardinals present (just over a hundred of whom are electors) gathered for the fifth General Congregation in the Vatican. The Conclave will occur in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, which will remain closed to visitors during those days.

What happens during the Conclave?

The Conclave will be preceded by a solemn Eucharistic celebration with the votive Mass Pro Eligendo Pontifice attended by the Cardinal electors. In the afternoon, the Cardinal electors proceed in a solemn procession to the Sistine Chapel, where the Conclave begins to elect the new Pope. At the end of the procession inside the Sistine Chapel, each Cardinal elector takes the oath as prescribed in paragraph 53 of Universi Dominici Gregis. Through this oath, they commit, if elected, to faithfully fulfill the Munus Petrinum as Pastor of the Universal Church. They also pledge to maintain absolute secrecy regarding everything related to the election of the Roman Pontiff and to refrain from supporting any attempts of external interference in the election.

At this point, the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations proclaims extra omnes, meaning that all individuals not part of the Conclave must leave the Sistine Chapel. Only the Master himself and the ecclesiastic designated to deliver the second meditation remain. This meditation focuses on the grave responsibility that rests upon the electors and the necessity of acting with pure intentions for the good of the Universal Church, keeping only God before their eyes. Once the meditation is delivered, the ecclesiastic and the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations leave.

The Cardinal electors then recite prayers according to the Ordo Sacrorum Rituum Conclavis and listen to the Cardinal Dean, who asks whether they are ready to proceed with voting or if any clarifications regarding the rules and procedures. All election procedures occur exclusively in the Sistine Chapel within the Vatican Apostolic Palace, which remains completely sealed off until the election ends. Throughout the election process, the Cardinal electors must refrain from sending letters or engaging in conversations, including phone calls, except in cases of extreme urgency. The Cardinals are not allowed to send or receive messages of any kind, receive newspapers or magazines of any nature, or follow radio or television broadcasts.

How many votes are required to elect a Pope?

To validly elect a new Pope, a two-thirds majority of the electors present is required. An additional vote is necessary if the total number of electors is not evenly divisible by three. If voting begins on the afternoon of the first day, there will be only one ballot. On subsequent days, two ballots are held in the morning and two in the afternoon. After the votes are counted, all ballots are burned. A chimney over the Sistine Chapel would emit black smoke if the ballot were inconclusive. If a Pope is elected, white smoke will billow out of the chimney. Suppose the electors fail to agree on a candidate after three days of inconclusive voting. In that case, a break of up to one day is allowed for prayer, free discussion among voters, and a brief spiritual exhortation by the Cardinal Proto-Deacon (Cardinal Dominique Mamberti).

What happens immediately after a new Pope is elected?

Once the Cardinals have elected a new Pope, the last of the Cardinal Deacons calls the Secretary of the College of Cardinals and the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations into the Sistine Chapel. The Dean of the College, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, speaking on behalf of all the electors, asks for the elected candidate's consent with the following words: "Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?" Upon receiving consent, he asks, "What name do you wish to be called?" The functions of a notary, with two Ceremonial Officers as witnesses, are carried out by the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, who drafts the document of acceptance and records the chosen name.

The newly-elected Pope acquires full and supreme authority over the universal Church from this moment. The Conclave ends immediately at this point. The Cardinal electors then pay homage and pledge obedience to the new Pope and prayers of thanks are lifted to God. The Cardinal Proto-Deacon then announces to the faithful the election and the name of the new Pontiff with the famous line: "Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum; Habemus Papam."

Immediately, the new Pope gives the Apostolic Blessing Urbi et Orbi from the Loggia of St. Peter's Basilica. The final step required is that, after the solemn inauguration ceremony of the Pontificate and within a suitable time, the new Pope formally takes possession of the Patriarchal Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.

- By Lisa Zengarini & Devin Watkins, writers for the Vatican

Alleluia!

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:36:04 GMT

Alleluia

A lleluia is the word we proclaim, sing, and shout on Easter Sunday. This Hebrew word means praise to Him who is, praise God. How fitting it is that we praise God each glorious Sunday. May you be filled with the joy of the Risen Lord, a joy that transcends all understanding.

W hile Christmas may hold a special place in our hearts due to its sentimental value, Easter is undeniably the most significant day in our faith. It's the day when Jesus Christ, having taken on human form, triumphed over sin and death, rising victoriously from the grave. Without this pivotal event, there would be no cause for our joyous celebration.

O ur jubilation is not without reason. We celebrate because Jesus, through his death and resurrection, has conquered sin and death, offering us the promise of eternal life.

O ur celebration is not just a commemoration of past events, but a declaration of our future hope. We rejoice because, by following Jesus, we too can share in his resurrection and the promise of eternal life.

A t every Mass, we encounter the Risen Lord and incredibly, amazingly, wondrously enter into communion with Him, especially in the Eucharist. Never forget this, never take this for granted, never be absent. The Easter season lasts 50 days, from Easter to Pentecost. It is a longer season than Lent because we are an Easter people.

Alleluia!

Peace in the Risen Christ,

Father Maassen (edited, reprinted and re-inspired)

Happy Easter

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 16:30:49 GMT

I have a favor to ask of you...

Dear Disciples of Hope,

Happy Easter to all! May you know the peace and joy that the Risen Lord brings!

Welcome to all of you whom we only see once or twice a year. It's great to have you here. You are always welcome at St Francis Borgia. I have a favor to ask of you, especially those who come to the celebration of the Eucharist only once or twice a year. Please return next week and be a part of the kingdom of God, Jesus' kingdom on earth. Jesus died for our salvation but lived to establish His kingdom on earth, our Catholic church. Jesus established our Catholic Church to continue His mission of Salvation. Our Salvation comes through our Church.

Why should you come back next week? In a nutshell, it is because God loves you and wants you to share in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is also your deepest desire. You and I are called to share, by knowledge and love, in God's life. We were created for communion with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This communion is not just a religious concept, but a participation in the divine life and a deep personal relationship with the Blessed Trinity. Jesus in the Gospel of John, says, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day." (John 6:53-40) He explicitly states that eating his body and drinking his blood- the Eucharist, which is the body, blood soul and divinity of Christ- with this participation in the divine life, and with being raised from the dead.

I wish I knew exactly what to write to help you understand how necessary are the Sacred Mysteries. (the Mass) In my years of interacting with people from all walks of life and from vastly different socioeconomic conditions, the most joyful people I have encountered are those who truly live their Catholic faith. The joy that comes from worshipping God. (the mass is the worship Jesus commanded us to do, "Do this in memory of me" Luke 22:19)

You have free will. You choose how you live your life. You choose to love. Where will your current life lead you? Choosing a life without Jesus Christ leads to self-exclusion from communion with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, which is contrary to the purpose of our existence. Choosing to follow Christ leads to joy and inevitably sharing in the Resurrection.

In the Gospel of Matthew Jesus says, "Not everyone who says to me 'Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of Heaven, but only the one who does the will of my heavenly Father." (Matt 7:21)

Choosing a life in Christ is experiencing joy now, and through the grace of God, ultimately sharing in the Resurrection.

The choice of Christ at a basic level requires Sunday worship (the Mass). We have celebrated the Liturgy of the Eucharist (the Mass) for approximately two thousand years. The Sacred Liturgy is one of the most intimate ways we encounter Christ this side of death. The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. The celebration of Mass...is the center of the whole Christian life...for each of the faithful individually. GIRM p16

As a reminder, if you have missed Mass without a serious reason, the Sacrament of reconciliation (confession) is needed before receiving the Eucharist. This sacrament is a beautiful opportunity to confess our sins, receive God's forgiveness, and start anew

"The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. For this reason, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Eucharist on days of obligation unless excused for a serious reason (for example, illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their pastor. Those who deliberately fail in this obligation commit a grave sin." (CCC 2181)

Habits can change, and lives can be better. Regardless of your situation, there is always hope. Our Risen Lord loves you. If there is anything the priests can help you with, please contact us. Hope to see you next week

Peace in the Risen Lord

Fr. Maassen reprinted and reedited

Sometimes, we say Palm Sunday; other times, Passion Sunday

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 19:52:59 GMT

Palm Sunday

Dear Pilgrims of Hope,

Sometimes, we say Palm Sunday; other times, we refer to this day as Passion Sunday. The Ordo refers to it as Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion. This week is Holy Week. Holy Week has as its purpose the remembrance of Christ's passion, beginning with His Messianic entrance into Jerusalem. (General Norms 31)

We are encouraged to enter into the Lord's passion. How? Here are a few suggestions …

There are books and articles about the Passion of Christ. In this literature, you will confront the excruciating torture that our Lord endured because of his love for us.

The movie The Passion of the Christ is incredibly violent, the violence is centered on one person, Jesus Christ. I have never been so emotionally affected by watching a movie. I believe it's fairly a realistic depiction of the passion and death of our Lord. Who chose the cross for our sake. It is likely the most authentic portrayal of Christ's passion.

You can always come to church at anytime to pray the Stations of the Cross, reflect on what you see. Jesus is in this place. You can also open the scripture and read the narrative accounts of the Passion, meditating and using your imagination to place yourself there.

We must spend some time meditating on the Passion of our Lord. It can help us understand that sin is ugly and has consequences and that our Lord loves us far beyond our comprehension. It can help us know that we, too, are called to obedience in following our Lord, and at times, that can be difficult.

This Thursday at 10:00 am, we Priests and the Archbishop will gather to celebrate the Mass of Chrism, a significant part of Holy Week. This Mass is a special occasion where the holy oils used in the Sacraments throughout the year are blessed. All are welcome to join us in this wonderful celebration, which will be held at the magnificent Cathedral Basilica.

In this bulletin, you will see the schedule for the Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter). I encourage you to attend all or as much as you can. It's a time for personal reflection and deepening your faith.
In addition, on Good Friday, we will join in the morning prayer at 8:00 am. Please join us as we prayerfully enter the most sacred days of our Faith.

Peace,

Father Maassen

"I don't go to Mass because_______, (fill in the blank)...

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:18:32 GMT

We often encounter people who say, "I don't go to Mass because..."

Dear Pilgrims of Hope,

We often encounter people who say, "I don't go to Mass because_____, I find it______ (fill in the blank), I don't like______, or I am not_______?" Perhaps a couple of thoughts may help with these conversations. The focus seems to be on themselves, as the sentence starts with ‘I’.

How does focusing on you or your experience give the proper worship to God? You are focused on your personal experience. How are you focusing on God? When you come to Mass, the focus should not be on your personal experience; the focus is giving thanks and praise to God and, when in a state of grace, receiving our Lord and Savior in the Eucharist.

When you write a Thank you note, do you focus on your experience while writing it? Do you spend time with loved ones only if it's entertaining? Last week, before the Sacred Mysteries, I focused on the offertory. One of our prayers is "Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God the almighty Father." Yes, we become a sacrifice joined to the Sacrifice of Calvary. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, "In the Eucharist, the sacrifice of Christ also becomes the sacrifice of the members of his Body. The lives of the faithful, their praise, sufferings, prayer, and work unites with those of Christ and his total offering, so they acquire a new value." (CCC 1368)

So you offer yourself to God. So come and offer your time, presence, voice, and thoughts with the Sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Come to give your time and presence again in praising and thanking God. When you put this method into practice, even if you don't 'feel' like it, it will change your focus from the I .... to focusing on God in worship, giving, and offering of yourself.

Let's remember that Jesus has given us a powerful way to worship and thank God, which we call the Mass. At every Mass, we echo Jesus' words, 'Do this in memory of me. 'This is not just a ritual, but a transformative experience that can inspire and uplift us.

If you have missed a Sunday Mass without a serious reason, (see CCC 2181) know that God's mercy and forgiveness await you in the sacrament of Reconciliation. Confession needs to happen before receiving the Holy Eucharist. Know that God's love and mercy are always available to you!

As a reminder, the regular times for the sacrament of Reconciliation and our current Mass schedule are always available in the Bulletin and on our website. We offer Exposition of the Eucharist on Tuesdays from 7:30 am through 6:15 pm. Take this opportunity to sit with Jesus; it will truly change your life.

Peace,

Father Maassen

Oppurtunity Knocks!

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:31:58 GMT

Oppurtunity Knocks!

Dear Pilgrims of Hope,

Opportunity is knocking. Now, why would I use that phrase for a Lenten letter? Notice I have changed the wording from the common phrase, "Opportunity only knocks once."

When I was younger, Lent seemed to me a period to get through, to be endured, a season in the Church that I did not see as an opportunity but rather a season of burden and constraint. But now, I stand before you, a testament to the transformative power of Lent. I have come to realize that Lent is not a season of burden, but a season of opportunity. An opportunity to experience and grow in the things we hold most dear in life, i.e., love, peace, and joy.

Lent is an opportunity for these things and more. It is a time to look at our prayer life and ask how we can increase it or change it to deepen our communion with The Father. This deepening of our communion with The Father is not a burden but a source of joy and peace that can significantly improve our lives.

Lent is a time to give of ourselves, whether alms or our time and talents. "Giving is not only the way to love others, but it often satisfies us ...

It is a time to walk away from sin and into our Father's loving arms, especially in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The less we sin, the more peaceful and happier we are. Lent is a time to experience the freedom that comes from focusing on what is essential in our lives and letting go of things that cause anxiety.

Lent is a time to experience the benefits of fasting. It helps us gain more control over our sinful actions, leading to a sense of peace and selfapproval. Most importantly, it's a time to deepen our awareness of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit's love for us.

Lent: Let's open the door and embrace the possibilities it brings. An opportunity is indeed knocking.

Peace,

Father Maassen

How is Lent going...

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:29:16 GMT

03/15/25 How is your Lent going...

Dear Pilgrims of Hope,

How is your Lent going? At the beginning of Lent, it is a good time for us to meditate about how we are doing as disciples. The season of Lent encourages us to look at our lives while challenging us to penetrate any self-deceit of our current missionary discipleship. By reading the weekday Gospels, you will see that the Disciples of Christ face many demands. Take up your cross daily, love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you, be a servant to others, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, etc.

Lent is an excellent time to look at our lives and see through our inflated egos regarding our being good disciples. However, you say, "I do that. I love my enemies." Hmmm. "I give food and clothing to the poor." Hmmm. Ask God, is there more that you can do, more that he wants? "I serve." Okay. How often and how much? Do you exalt yourself? Do you take up your cross daily and follow Christ? Hmmm, Hmmm, Hmmm.

If we reflect on a disciple's characteristics, we may see how we fall short of these demands. We need Jesus Christ. Let me repeat that. We need Our Lord—His grace, strength, concern, and, most importantly, His love. All are available in the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation.

Another significant way to be open to the grace, help, and aid of Our Savior is through prayer. Pray unceasingly, says Paul. Lent is a time to increase/intensify our prayer life.

Mother Theresa went to daily Mass and would spend hours - yes, hours - in prayer every day. This communion with Go enabled her to become the saint we know.

Come to pray at Mass and/or any of our Lenten services. Try Lectio Divina (praying Scripture), say The Our Father several times throughout the day, take some time to read Sacred Scripture, and receive the Eucharist every chance you get. Pray the Rosary and the chaplet of Divine Mercy.

Visit with Jesus at Adoration each Tuesday (Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament) or any day, as long as the Tabernacle is out, Jesus is present. This is a time to be still, peaceful, and in the presence of God. Talk with God while you are with Him, think about His love for you, and say Thank You.

Just pray,

Father Maassen

(edited and reprinted)

Ash Wednesday

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 17:36:53 GMT

3/2/25 - Father Maassen's Ash Wednesday Message

Dear Missionaries of Jesus Christ,

Welcome to Lent! This March 5th is Ash Wednesday, the day on which Lent commences. In the Catechism, we read that “Lent is the liturgical season of forty days which begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with the celebration of the Paschal Mystery (Easter Triduum). Lent is the primary penitential season in the Church’s liturgical year, reflecting the forty days Jesus spent in the desert in fasting and prayer.”

On Ash Wednesday, when the priest or minister distributes ashes, he has two options to say, which are “remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return,” or “repent and believe in the Gospel.” The words “repent and believe in the Gospel” echo the first public preaching of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Mark and Matthew.

What is repentance? The Greek word “metanoia” means “to change your mind” and the Hebrew counterpart means “to return.” This message "urges listeners to change the direction of their lives, to adopt a new way of thinking and acting. Repentance is the effort one makes to tum away from all that is sinful and selfish and to accept the responsibility of living by the standards of God" (Curtis Mitch on the Gospel of Matthew). On Ash Wednesday, we receive ashes as a reminder of our death and a sign of internal repentance. So, Lent, which is a season of repentance, helps us to follow

Christ more closely, deepen our relationship with Him, and leave sin behind, so we will inherit a share in the Resurrection.

If you have been away for months, years, please come back. You are always welcome here.

Please check our website and bulletin for all the weekly scheduled times. We are offering a Combined Parish Reconciliation Evening at Borgia on March 30th from 7:00 pm until all confessions are heard, and you can always schedule the reception of the sacrament of Reconciliation with any priest. In addition, there will be an opportunity for Reconciliation after the 10 am Mass on Sundays during Lent and on the Wednesday during Holy Week from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm.

If you have missed a Sunday Mass without a serious reason, know that God's mercy and forgiveness await you in the sacrament of Reconciliation.

This needs to happen before receiving the Holy Eucharist. Know that God’s love and mercy are always available to you! As a reminder, the regular times of opportunity for the sacrament of Reconciliation and our current Mass schedule is listed on the back. We also have Exposition of the Eucharist on Tuesdays from 7:30 am through 6:15 pm.

If there is anything either of the priests can help you with, please call the parish office at 636-239-6701.

Sincerely in Christ,

Father Maassen

What is the prayer commonly referred to as the Angelus?

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:21:58 GMT

2/23/25 - What is the prayer commonly referred to as the Angelus?

The Angelus, a prayer that has been recited for centuries, commemorates the incarnation of God as man Jesus Christ. It is a tradition that has been observed in the morning, at noon, and in the evening, with bells rung to remind the faithful to say this prayer. The word Angelus comes from the first word for the prayer in Latin, which translates to angel in English, which comes from the Greek aggelos, which means messenger.

I invite all parishes for this Lent to recite the Angelus at noon every day, even on Sunday throughout the Lenten Season. I hope that we will all pray for the Angelus together at the same time daily. This challenge is for each member of all our Parishes. There is so much to meditate on in this prayer. The incredible love God has for us in becoming an infant, the blessed mother's willingness to do God's will, to say yes. The final prayer reminds us of our goal to share in the Resurrection, a transformative event that is the most important goal to which God directs our lives.

In Christ

Fr. M

Weekly Message

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 20:54:44 GMT

2/16/25 Please pray for them...

Please pray for them. I, personally, do not know any perfect human beings on this earth. Certainly not me, and no one I have met either. We are all imperfect, striving to emulate the virtues and character of those we admire. This shared imperfection connects us all in our humanity. I say this because it seems we have lost the beautiful understanding of purgatory. When someone dies, it is our responsibility to pray for him or her and try to have a Mass offered for them. This act of caring and responsibility is crucial in our faith.

In 1032, the Catechism of the Catholic Church says, "All who die in God's grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death, they undergo purification, to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven...

We continue reading, "This teaching is also based on the practice of prayer for the dead, already mentioned in sacred Scripture... From the beginning, the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for each of them.

'Suffrage' here means intercessory prayers, prayers offered on behalf of another person, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that thus purified they might attain the beatific vision of God.

Some of the best people I know have died and will die. I will continue to love them as I pray for them. I encourage you to do so as well.

Peace,

Father Maassen