Mass Readings and Reflection: Tuesday, September 23, 2025

 

Memorial of St. Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio), Priest

First Reading:
(Ezra 6:7–8, 12, 14–20)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 122): Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

Alleluia: Alleluia, alleluia.
The Word of God is living and effective, discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart.
Alleluia.

Gospel: (Luke 8:19–21)

Reflection

In the Gospel today, we saw what many does by raising the questions: Did Jesus have biological brothers and sisters? Some argue this text proves Mary had other children, but the Church teaches Mary remained ever-virgin. How do we understand this passage?

First, Biblical interpretation matters. The Bible was not meant to be read word-for-word like a manual. Jesus himself spoke in parables. For example, when he said, “If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out” (Mt 5:29), he did not mean it literally, but as a call to avoid sin. Likewise, “brothers” here requires interpretation.

Second, language and translation. Scripture was first written in Hebrew and Greek, later translated into Latin by St. Jerome, and eventually into English. In many languages, there is no separate word for “cousin” or close kin, so “brothers” can mean extended family or spiritual kinship.

Thirds, Jesus redefines family. He makes clear: “My mother and brothers are those who hear the Word of God and do it.” Family in Christ is not defined by blood but by obedience to God’s Word.

Fouth,absence of biological siblings. Nowhere else in Scripture do we hear of Jesus’ supposed brothers by name. At the Cross, Jesus entrusts Mary to John (Jn 19:26–27). If he had siblings, they would naturally have cared for her. This silence supports the Church’s belief in Mary’s perpetual virginity.

Finally, Christian brotherhood through Baptism. By Baptism, we are made sons and daughters of God, brothers and sisters in Christ. The waters of Baptism unite us more deeply than bloodlines. This is why the Church is called a family, where we address one another as “brothers and sisters.”

Thus, today’s Gospel is not about denying Mary’s perpetual virginity, but about expanding our understanding of family—it is those who listen to God and live His Word.

Saint of the Day: St. Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio). It's a special day because my current Parish in East Haven is named after St. Pio. 

Born in 1887 in Italy, Padre Pio became a Capuchin friar and was ordained a priest in 1910. Three years later, he received the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, in his body, which he bore for the rest of his life. Despite skepticism and humiliation, Padre Pio became a beloved confessor, spiritual director, and intercessor for countless faithful. He died in San Giovanni Rotondo on September 23, 1968.

We are all adopted into the family of Jesus Christ at Baptism.

God bless you, and have a great day.

Pal Ronnie