Mass Readings and Reflection for Tuesday April 14, 2026

First Reading: (Acts 4:32–37)

The Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 93)

Response: The Lord is king, robed in majesty.

Gospel: (John 3:7–15)

Reflection:

From the readings we can see that after the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the apostles’ testimony, the number of believers grew. Many were baptized and came to be called Christians. But the name Christian is far more than a title, it expresses our very essence.

To be Christian is to be like Christ. And Christ reveals God, who is a communion of Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Therefore, Christianity is inherently communal. To claim to be Christian and yet reject community is a contradiction.

The early Church lived this truth. They were united in heart and soul, sharing everything in common. No one was in need because all contributed and all received according to their needs. It did not matter how much one brought; what mattered was the spirit of unity and generosity. They lived as a true family.

Even in early liturgical practice, people brought bread and wine for the Eucharist. But disparities arose, the rich brought much, the poor little. To preserve unity, this practice was corrected so that all would partake equally of the same Bread and the same Chalice. The Eucharist itself became a sign of equality and unity in Christ.

This is the ideal of Christian community: not competition, not superiority, but shared life.

However, over time, challenges emerged:

• Laziness: Some relied on the common fund without contributing.

• Craftiness: Others withheld resources while pretending generosity.

• Insincerity: Dishonesty began to erode trust.

• Neglect: Needs were not always met fairly, leading to frustration.

• Desire for supremacy: Some sought power, control, and status.

These realities fractured the spirit of community. Instead of unity, division arose. Today, this breakdown is even more visible. Christians deceive one another, exploit one another, neglect one another. Some live in isolation, unknown even to those around them. Others attempt to belong but are driven away by gossip and division.

So we must ask: Where is our Christian identity?

Christ Himself gave the answer: “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)

In the time of persecution under Nero, even enemies marveled at Christians, saying, “See how they love one another.” Their unity and love endured even unto death.

Can the same be said of us today?

Christianity is not merely a label. It is a way of life, a call to live as a family, as a community. The suffering of one must be the suffering of all; the joy of one must be the joy of all.

Let us return to that original vision of the Church:

• A people united in love

• A community that shares and cares

• A family bound not by blood, but by baptism

May we receive the grace to live not just as Christians in name, but as Christians in truth, deeds, living in unity, charity, and authentic community.

Amen.

God bless with Fr. Blessed 🙌 

Mass Reading and Reflection April 13th 2026

First Reading: (Acts 4:23–31)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 2)

Response: Blessed are all who trust in you, O Lord.

Alleluia

Alleluia, alleluia.
If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
Alleluia.

Gospel: (John 3:1–8)

Reflection:

The Gospel passage we have just listened to tells us about the visit of Nicodemus to Jesus. Nicodemus came to Him at night. He was a wealthy man, we recall that when Jesus died, it was this same Nicodemus who brought a mixture of aloes and myrrh to anoint His body, a very costly offering  (John 19:39). Only a wealthy man could have done that.

Nicodemus was also a Pharisee, one of those who strongly adhered to and defended the Mosaic Law. More than that, he was a ruler of the Jews, a member of the Sanhedrin, the council that judged religious matters.

So why would such a man go to Jesus?
The Pharisees were often opposed to Him. They saw Him as a threat, not a friend.

Yet Nicodemus came.

Why?
Verse 2 gives us the answer:
“Rabbi, we know that you have come from God as a teacher, for no one can do these signs unless God is with him.”

Nicodemus calls Jesus Rabbi-teacher, master.
This is significant. A ruler humbling himself to recognize truth. While others accused Jesus of working by the power of the devil, Nicodemus acknowledged that Jesus came from God.

But Jesus does not allow Nicodemus to remain at the level of admiration.
He challenges him: You must be born again, of water and the Spirit.

Nicodemus does not understand.
And yet, we see in him something powerful: a sincere desire for truth.

Though the Gospel does not explicitly describe his baptism, we see his transformation:

• He defended Jesus before the Pharisees (cf. John 7:50–51)

• He honored Jesus at His death with costly ointment (cf. John 19:39)

Nicodemus moved from curiosity… to conviction… to courage.

He became, in essence, a Pharisee who turned into a disciple.

What do we learn?

In the face of truth:

• Your position does not matter

• Your title does not matter

• Your group does not matter

What matters is your willingness to accept the truth.

Do not cling to your opinions simply because of pride.
Do not defend your stance just because of status.

Nicodemus had everything, wealth, influence, authority, yet he humbled himself.

He saw the truth…
and he followed it, even when it meant standing apart from his group.

A Question for Us

Can we do the same?

• Can you recognize the truth when it confronts you?

• Can you let go of your own ideas when they contradict the truth?

• Can you stand alone, if necessary, for what is right?

Nicodemus did.

While others rejected Jesus, he acknowledged Him.
While others mocked, he defended.
While others abandoned, he honored.

Be humble enough to give away your opinion and accept the truth.
Stand out from the group when necessary.

Let us pray for the grace:

• To recognize truth

• To accept it

• And to stand by it, no matter the cost

Amen.

By Fr.Blessed 

Divine Mercy Sunday April 12th, 2026

 

First Reading: (Acts 2:42–47)

Psalm: (Psalm 118)

“His steadfast love endures forever.”

Second Reading: (1 Peter 1:3–9)

Alleluia

“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.”

Gospel: (John 20:19–31)

Mass Reading and Reflection for Saturday April 11th 2026

First Reading: (Acts 4:13–21)

Psalm: (Psalm 118)

The Lord is my strength and my might; He has become my salvation.

Alleluia

Alleluia, alleluia.
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.
Alleluia.

Gospel: (Mark 16:9–15)

Reflection:

Today’s message is about faith that moves from fear to bold witness.

In the Gospel, the disciples struggle with belief. Even after hearing that Jesus is risen, they doubt. Fear keeps them hidden, and uncertainty clouds their faith. Jesus rebukes them, not to condemn, but to awaken them. Faith is not based on seeing, but on trusting the truth revealed by Christ.

This same transformation is seen in the First Reading. Peter and John, once fearful, now stand with courage before powerful authorities. Though uneducated and ordinary, they speak with conviction. Why? Because they have encountered the risen Christ.

Their response is powerful:

“We cannot keep from speaking about what we have seen and heard.”

True faith cannot remain silent.

The Reflection reminds us that faith is not mere knowledge. If we see something, we know it, we do not need faith. But faith is trusting in what we do not see, grounded in the authority of Christ.

Like the disciples, we may begin with fear, doubt, or hesitation. We may choose the “safe option,” avoiding risk or witness. But an encounter with the risen Lord changes everything. Fear gives way to courage. Silence gives way to proclamation.

A simple but profound image captures this: the “exit sign” in a church. What we receive inside the church, Word, Eucharist, prayer, must come alive when we leave. Faith is not meant to remain inside walls; it must be lived.

So the challenge is clear:

• Do we merely say we believe, or do we truly trust and live it?

• Do we give God our leftovers, or our first and our best?

The risen Christ gives us a new beginning. Like the apostles, we are sent, not because we are perfect or qualified, but because we are called.

And so, like Peter and John, may we have the courage to say with our lives:

We cannot remain silent.

Amen.

God bless you 

Jesus the Cornerstone Rejected and Mass Readings and Reflection April 10th 2026

First Reading: (Acts 4:1–12)

Psalm: (Psalm 118)

The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

Alleluia

Alleluia, alleluia.
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.
Alleluia.

Gospel: (John 21:1–14)

Reflection

Today’s readings reveal a powerful truth: what is rejected by the world, God can transform into the foundation of glory.

In the First Reading, Peter stands before the very authorities who rejected Jesus. Yet he does not shrink back. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he proclaims with courage that Jesus, the rejected one, is now the cornerstone of salvation. The message is clear: human rejection does not determine divine purpose.

The Gospel mirrors this reality in a more personal way. The disciples return to fishing, perhaps discouraged and uncertain. Despite their efforts, they catch nothing. Their nets are empty, just like their hopes.

But everything changes with one presence: Jesus.

At His word, their emptiness becomes abundance. Their failure becomes fruitfulness. Their confusion becomes clarity.

This is the pattern of the Christian life.

How often do we experience “empty nets”?

• We work hard but see no results.

• We try to fix relationships but remain wounded.

• We pray, yet feel unheard.

In those moments, it can feel like rejection, by others, by life, even by God.

But the Gospel reminds us: Jesus stands on the shore of our lives, even when we do not recognize Him. He does not condemn; He provides. He does not abandon; He restores. He even prepares a place at the table for us.

The same Jesus who was rejected, crucified, and abandoned is now the risen Lord who feeds, heals, and calls us forward.

So the question becomes:
Will we trust Him enough to cast our nets again?

Because in Christ:

• Rejection becomes purpose.

• Emptiness becomes abundance.

• Failure becomes mission.

And like the disciples, we are invited not just to believe, but to come, sit, and share in His life.

Amen.

God bless you

April 9th 2026 Mass in Picture

 

Mass Readings and Reflection Wednesday, 8th April 2026

First Reading: (Acts 3:1–10)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 105)

Response: Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.

Gospel: (Luke 24:13–35)

Reflection

Today’s Gospel presents another post-resurrection appearance of Jesus. He appears to two of His disciples on their way to Emmaus. Just like in the case of Mary Magdalene, they did not recognize Him at first. This reveals something very particular about the resurrection appearances of Jesus: when He appears, He is often not immediately recognized.

These two disciples walked with Him, spoke with Him, and shared their sorrow, yet they did not know it was Him. This raises an important question many people ask: why did they not recognize Jesus after His resurrection? How is it possible that those who knew Him so well could fail to recognize Him within just three days?

There are a few reasons. First, after His resurrection, Jesus had a glorified body, different from the one He had before. Second, the disciples were overwhelmed with grief and disbelief, which clouded their ability to recognize Him. Third, and most importantly, Jesus chose to reveal Himself gradually. He wanted them to come to faith not just by sight, but through Scripture and understanding.

That is why He first explained the Scriptures to them, beginning with Moses and all the prophets. He helped them connect what had happened with what had already been foretold. Then, at table, He took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them. It was at that moment, the breaking of the bread, that their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him.

This was a journey: from the explanation of Scripture to the breaking of the bread. Through these actions, Jesus revealed Himself.

That Emmaus experience is exactly what happens at every Holy Mass. At Mass, we first encounter the breaking of the Word. The Scriptures are read, and they are explained. Jesus speaks to us and reveals Himself through His Word. Then we move to the altar, where the Word becomes flesh in the Eucharist. In the breaking of the Bread, Jesus reveals Himself again.

The Holy Mass, therefore, is our own Emmaus experience.

The question we must ask ourselves is: do we recognize Him?

Many times, we do not. During the Liturgy of the Word, we are distracted and fail to listen. During the consecration, we lose focus. We are physically present, but spiritually absent. And so, like the disciples at first, we fail to recognize Him even though He is right there with us.

If we truly understood that every Mass is an encounter with the risen Christ, our attitude would change. We would listen more attentively. We would participate more fully. We would recognize that Jesus is revealing Himself to us, first in the Word, and then in the Eucharist.

The Church teaches us something very important here: those who do not listen to the Word of God, who do not partake in the table of the Word, should not approach the table of the Eucharist. The two are inseparable. It is through both that Christ reveals Himself.

Therefore, let us pray for the grace to recognize Jesus each time we attend Mass. When the Scriptures are proclaimed, may we hear His voice. When the Bread is broken, may we see Him with the eyes of faith.

Every Mass is our Emmaus. Jesus walks with us, speaks to us, and reveals Himself to us.

May we not miss Him.

Amen 

God bless you

The TruthSocial to Spare Iran’s Annihilation Today

 

Oil Dropped Because Iranians Will All Live

See above, oil dropped over 15% and 11% for WTI and Brent.

What is there not to like about anti-war efforts? The president has apparently reached a deal for a two-week ceasefire in Iran. Before that, he had threatened to wipe out an entire civilization. Is he God?

Whatever the deal is, we hope it holds. One thing is certain: we don’t want innocent people to die. Also, all those who thrive on bloodshed will not be happy about this, and that’s a good thing. Thank God for that.

If this drop holds, it will bring relief at the gas pump. I paid over $4 per gallon the last time I filled up. Flying may become a little cheaper, and so might groceries.

When the president of the United States speaks, people pay attention. Doesn't matter how deranged he might be. The lesson is, you can never underestimate a man with ego and unprecedented power. Don't try it. But who are Trump advisors? Don't answer that. 

These Men are not What You think, kids: Trump is 79 and Bibi is 76

 

Madd Reading and Reflection April 7th 2026

First Reading: (Acts 2:36–41)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 33)

Response: His merciful love fills the earth.

• The word of the Lord is faithful

• His works are trustworthy

• His mercy and love fill the whole earth

Alleluia: Alleluia, alleluia!

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Alleluia!

Gospel: (John 20:11–18)

Reflection:

Jesus calls you by your name so that you may recognize Him.

The turning point in today’s Gospel is simple but powerful:
Mary recognizes Jesus the moment He calls her by name.

Before that:

• She saw Him, but did not know that was Him.

• She heard Him, but did not recognize His voice.

• She spoke to Him, but thought He was a stranger.

One word changed everything: “Mary.”

1. Recognition comes through relationship

Jesus did not reveal Himself through a miracle or dramatic sign.
He revealed Himself through a personal call.

• From “sir” → to “Rabboni”

• From confusion → to recognition

• From sorrow → to faith

Key message: we recognize Jesus deeply only when we have a personal relationship with Him.

2. Jesus knows you personally

Just as He called Mary,
He calls us by your name.

• Not in general

• Not as part of a crowd

• But personally and intentionally

He knows you, he knows me, He sees us. He calls us.

3. Why we fail to recognize Him

Like Mary, we often:

• Are overwhelmed by sorrow

• Distracted by life

• Surrounded by noise

This world is noisy. Too noisy. 
There are many voices competing for our attention.

Key message: If we are not attentive, we may miss the voice of Jesus, even when He is right in front of us.

4. Jesus speaks in everyday moments

Jesus still appears today:

• In our struggles

• In our daily routine

• In unexpected encounters

But the question is: Do we recognize Him?

5. There is no need to be afraid

When Jesus calls us by name, it means:

• He knows us 

• He is near

• He is present in our lives and situation

Key message: If Jesus knows our name, we are never alone.

Just like Mary:

• Listen for His voice

• Pay attention

• Build a relationship with Him

Because at the moment He calls our name…..Everything can change.

Trouble With Working Class People

 This is how the average person lose money in the system through wars. 

Historic St. Mary's Church at Yale University

 

Mass Readings and Reflection Monday (April 6, 2026)

First Reading: (Acts 2:14, 22–33)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 16)

Response: Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.

Gospel: (Matthew 28:8–15)

Reflection

Happy Easter. It is one day after resurrection Sunday and we are still within the octave of Easter, and throughout this week, the readings focus on the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus. He shows Himself to His disciples in different ways and moments, leaving no doubt that He is truly risen from the dead.

In today’s Gospel, the women experience mixed emotions, fear and great joy. Fear at what has happened, yet overwhelming joy that the Lord is risen. But something striking happens: although the apostles are in Jerusalem where everything took place, Jesus does not immediately appear to them there. Instead, He instructs them to go to Galilee. Why Galilee?

Galilee is where it all began. It is where Jesus started His ministry, where He taught them, performed miracles, and revealed His identity. Yet at that time, they did not fully understand Him, especially His predictions about His suffering, death, and resurrection. Now that these things have come to pass, they are asked to return to that beginning so they can understand the end.

The journey back to Galilee is therefore a journey of faith. It is like reading a book or watching a movie: the ending may not make sense unless you revisit the beginning. When you connect the beginning to the end, clarity emerges. The apostles needed to return to Galilee to remember, to connect, and to finally understand.

This message applies to us today. If there are things in our lives we do not understand, go back to our own “Galilee”, the place where it all began.

Finally, the Gospel reminds us of the soldiers who witnessed the truth of the resurrection but chose silence because they were bribed. Even today, many know the truth but refuse to speak because of personal gain. They allow falsehood to spread rather than stand for what is right.

We must ask ourselves: Do I know the truth, yet remain silent because of fear, pressure, or gain?

Let us pray for the grace to:

• Speak the truth boldly

• Refuse to be silenced by compromise

• And return to our Galilee whenever life does not make sense

So that, by reconnecting with our beginnings, we may better understand our present and walk forward in faith.

Amen. Happy Easter.

God bless you 🙏 

He Conquered Death-Alleluia

 

Resurrection Story

 

The World Today 🌎

 

Good Friday Mass Readings and Reflection April 3rd 2026

First Reading: Isaiah (52:13-53:12)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 31)

Response: Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

Second Reading: (Hebrews 4:14–16; 5:7–9)

Gospel: (John 18:1-19:42)

Reflection: Jesus is dead. Look at the cross on which He hangs.

Good Friday is a tale of love, not just any love, but true love.

Look at Him: bruised, battered, mocked, and broken. Blood flows from His body. The innocent one accepts guilt to save the guilty. He who had no sin allows Himself to be called a sinner, to save sinners.

He becomes the ransom.
He pays the price.
He dies the death that was ours.

If you want to understand love, do not look to words, look at the Cross.

There hangs Jesus Christ, giving His life so that we might live. Accepting punishment that was ours. This is love in its purest form.

The world falls silent. Darkness covers the land. And still, He loves.

Pause again… and look at the Cross.

What do you see?

It should have been you.
It should have been me.
But He takes our place.

On Holy Thursday, He said:
"This is my body, given up for you."

Now on Good Friday, that body is broken on the Cross.

The question is:
Can we love Him in return?
Can we give ourselves fully, without reserve?

This is why it is called Good Friday.
Not because suffering is good, but because love made it good.

Even in His agony, Jesus forgives:
"Father, forgive them; they know not what they do."

He forgives those who crucified Him.
He forgives those who abandoned Him.
He even loves Judas Iscariot to the very end.

He knows our weakness, our sin, our brokenness, yet He does not abandon us.

He stoops down to wash feet.
He lowers Himself to touch our filth.
And today, He dies for us.

Dear people of God, let this not be just a story.
Let it transform you.

One day, we too shall die.

Life is fleeting. Titles, pride, possessions, they mean nothing in the face of death. Even Christ died, who then are we?

So learn to forgive.
Let go.
Be good.
Live rightly, now.

Each time we choose sin, we nail Him to the Cross again.
Each time we reject love, we wound Him again.

What use is His death for us if we continue to crucify Him by our lives?

And yet, He still offers mercy.

Amen.

God bless you.

The Stations of the Cross by Alphonsus Liguori

Stations of the Cross:

My Lord Jesus Christ, you have made this journey to die for me with unspeakable love, and I have so many times ungratefully abandoned you.
But now I love you with all my heart, and because I love you, I am sincerely sorry for ever having offended you.

Pardon me, my God, and permit me to accompany you on this journey.
You go to die for love of me-I want, my beloved Redeemer, to die for love of you.

My Jesus, I will live and die always united to you.

First Station: Pilate Condemns Jesus to Die

We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you, because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world.

Consider how Jesus Christ, after being scourged and crowned with thorns, was unjustly condemned by Pilate to die on the cross.

Key reflection:
It was not Pilate-but my sins-that condemned you.

Prayer:
My adorable Jesus, I beseech you by the merits of this sorrowful journey to assist my soul on its journey to eternity.
I love you more than myself. I repent of ever having offended you.
Grant that I may love you always-and then do with me as you will.

Second Station: Jesus Accepts His Cross

We adore you, O Christ…

Consider Jesus walking with the cross, thinking of us and offering His suffering for us.

Key reflection:
Embrace your crosses with peace and resignation.

Prayer:
My beloved Jesus, I embrace all the sufferings you have destined for me.
Help me carry my cross with your strength.
Never let me be separated from you again.

Third Station: Jesus Falls the First Time

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus, weakened from suffering, falls under the weight of the cross.

Key reflection:
It is the weight of my sins that caused your fall.

Prayer:
By the merits of this fall, save me from falling into mortal sin.
Grant that I may never offend you again.

Fourth Station: Jesus Meets His Mother

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus meets His sorrowful Mother. Their shared suffering pierces their hearts.

Key reflection:
True love shares in suffering.

Prayer:
Grant me devotion to your Holy Mother.
May I always remember your Passion with love and sorrow.

Fifth Station: Simon Helps Carry the Cross

We adore you, O Christ…

Simon is forced to help Jesus carry the cross.

Key reflection:
Accept your cross willingly-not reluctantly.

Prayer:
I accept the cross destined for me and unite it to yours.
Help me to carry it faithfully until death.

Sixth Station: Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus

We adore you, O Christ…

Veronica wipes the face of Jesus, and His image is left on her veil.

Key reflection:
Sin disfigures the soul, but Christ restores it.

Prayer:
My soul was once beautiful through your grace-restore it again.
Cleanse me by your Passion.

Seventh Station: Jesus Falls the Second Time

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus falls again, renewing His suffering.

Key reflection:
Falling is human, but perseverance is grace.

Prayer:
Grant me the strength to persevere in your love until death.
In every temptation, may I turn to you.

Eighth Station: Jesus Speaks to the Women

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus tells the weeping women to weep for themselves and their children.

Key reflection:
True sorrow is for sin, not just suffering.

Prayer:
I weep for my sins because they offend you, whom I love.
Let love, not fear, guide my repentance.

Ninth Station: Jesus Falls the Third Time

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus falls a third time, completely exhausted.

Key reflection:
Even in weakness, Christ continues forward.

Prayer:
Give me strength to overcome my passions and remain faithful to you.

Tenth Station: Jesus Is Stripped of His Garments

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus is stripped, and His wounds are reopened.

Key reflection:
Detach from worldly attachments.

Prayer:
Help me strip away all attachment to earthly things and love only you.

Eleventh Station: Jesus Is Nailed to the Cross

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus is nailed to the cross and offers His life.

Key reflection:
Love is sacrifice.

Prayer:
Nail my heart to your cross, that I may never leave you.

Twelfth Station: Jesus Dies on the Cross

We adore you, O Christ…

After three hours of agony, Jesus dies.

Key reflection:
His death is my hope.

Prayer:
By your death, grant me the grace to die in your love and surrender my soul to you.

Thirteenth Station: Jesus Is Taken Down from the Cross

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus is placed in the arms of His sorrowful Mother.

Key reflection:
Remain close to Mary in suffering.

Prayer:
O Mother of Sorrows, pray for me.
Let me love your Son above all things.

Fourteenth Station: Jesus Is Laid in the Tomb

We adore you, O Christ…

Jesus is laid in the tomb.

Key reflection:
Death is not the end, resurrection is the promise.

Prayer:
By your resurrection, raise me to eternal life with you.

Final Prayer to Jesus Crucified

My good and dear Jesus, I kneel before you, asking you most earnestly to engrave upon my heart a deep and lively faith, hope, and charity, with true repentance for my sins and a firm resolve to make amends.

As I reflect upon your five wounds and dwell upon them with deep compassion and grief, I recall the words of the prophet David:

“They have pierced my hands and my feet; they have numbered all my bones.”

"The Queen of Deflection Departs” Pam Bondi is Out

"The Dow is up 50,000". Not so much these days. And that was the AG, Pam Bondi.

Breaking news: she has just been fired by the president, Donald Trump.

With all the flip-flops and the deflection, it was clear she wouldn't be at that post for long. 

It will be interesting to see who succeeds her.

The “Queen of Deflection.” Maybe, when she goes back home to Florida, she can write us a memoir about her time at the White House-as the chief law enforcement officer.

Welcome home, Pam.

A War That Won’t End Quickly

Yesterday, most Americans tuned in for the President’s prime-time address to the nation about the ongoing war in Iran. Many watched with the expectation that the war would be winding down. That was not the case.

I tried watching the address myself-more than once-and couldn’t get through it. Lately, I find it very difficult to watch the President speak at all. That’s strange for me; I’ve never had this reaction to any world leader, not even Bibi. I literally feel discomfort in my ears when I hear him talk. Part of that is because he can barely finish a sentence without mixing outright falsehoods with traces of truth. It’s exhausting.

Still, one statement stuck with me during the first few minutes I managed to endure. He said that America doesn’t need Iranian oil because we are energy-independent here at home. That might be technically true, but it ignores a critical reality: the countries that depend on Iranian oil are also vital to Americans’ everyday survival.

China is the world’s factory. Much of what we use in this country is manufactured abroad,particularly in China, India, and Japan, all nations reliant on overseas energy supplies. The President surely knows this. So why make that statement? What purpose does it serve?

And why is America still locked in a war of attrition? Why are ordinary people sending their kids to go and die for a war that will not benefit them? These and other questions are worth pondering.

If anyone expected the U.S. to enter this war and be out in a week or two, that expectation reflects weak and lazy reasoning. We were told the war was instigated by our ally Israel, and that the U.S. joined in. Israel’s prime minister, Bibi of Israel, has been pushing for confrontation with Iran for over three decades, and now it has finally arrived. His wishes have come through, and now the agenda has to be served.

To the ordinary mind, Iran cannot have nukes, that has always been the claim. Well, nukes are dangerous, and responsible states should have them. But what are their purposes to begin with? To deter adversaries. Russia is alleged to be the number one nation on earth with the most nukes, and the U.S. second. These weapons are expensive to make and require serious technical skill to develop. Israel has never fully declared they have them, but multiple sources believe they possess over 300 of warheads. As you can tell, nobody knows exactly how many they are. In fact it's not publicly confirmed that they have have them. They are not part of the nonproliferation agreement. What if Iran already have nukes by other means? It's a secret nations can keep. Will that be a mutually assured destruction (MAD)? 

We have to be careful. 

And the point here is that any country in the 21st century concerned with its survival believes it must possess these weapons. Say what you will about North Korea, they are a nuclear-armed nation. When was the last time you heard anybody trying to attack them?

We believe we have come a long way as a civilization. Why can’t we use diplomacy to solve our problems, but instead fuss and fight, kill and maim? I am not naive; I do know a thing or two.

So if the war is going on longer than expected, that is by design. It feels eerily similar to the “two weeks to flatten the curve” narrative during COVID, a short-term promise that stretched into months and then years.

There are a few observations here worth sitting with, especially for those paying attention. People should get their affairs in order. If anything, we are cooked. This is not a joke.

Have a great day.
-Pal Ronnie

Mass Reading for Holy Thursday April 2nd 2026

First Reading: (Exodus 12:1–14)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 116)

Response:

“The cup of blessing that we bless is a sharing in the blood of Christ.”

Second Reading: Corinthians (11:23–26)

Gospel: (John 13:1–15)

REFLECTION 

In Jesus’ time, as most people walked with bare feet, the servant or slave of the house would wash the feet of visitors. But Jesus turns this around, He becomes the servant of all by washing the feet of His disciples.

This is our Easter journey:
to become servants of others.

As we prepare to celebrate the Resurrection, we are reminded that true greatness is found in humility and service.

In the second reading, Saint Paul recalls the institution of the Eucharist, the bread becoming the Body of Christ and the wine becoming the Blood of Christ. This is what we receive regularly, and through it, we are transformed.

The more we receive the Eucharist, the more we become like Christ, the more we become people for others.

In the first reading from Exodus, we hear about the Passover, the marking of homes with the blood of the lamb as a sign of belonging to God.

Today, we also bear a sign:

• We carry a crucifix

• We make the sign of the cross

• We live as witnesses

 We belong to God.

We are called not to hide our faith, but to live it openly:

• In public

• In our homes

• Even in simple acts like blessing our food

As we prayed in the psalm:

“The cup of blessing that we bless is a sharing in the blood of Christ.”

We are called to share in Christ’s life and to reflect Him in our families and communities.

This is a journey, a journey back to Christ for those who have drifted away, and a deeper journey for those seeking Him.

As we enter the Triduum, we renew our faith:

• In the Eucharist

• In service

• In the Resurrection

We are a Eucharistic people.
We are called to live what we receive.

Amen.

God bless you 🙏 

Sunrise: A View from the Garage 5th Floor @SRC.YALE

 

Mass Reading and Reflection April 1st, 2026

First Reading: (Isaiah 50:4–9)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 69)

Response:

“In your great mercy, answer me, O God, in the time of your favor.”

Gospel: (Matthew 26:14–25)

(Judas’ betrayal and the preparation for the Passion of Christ)

Reflection:

No one enjoys suffering, especially innocent suffering. When we suffer because of our own actions, we can at least understand why. But when we are falsely accused, misunderstood, or hurt for no reason, it cuts deeper.

Our natural reaction is to:

• Defend ourselves loudly

• Prove our innocence

• Return insult for insult

• Curse those who hurt us

But today’s first reading presents a different response-a divine response.

The Tongue of a Disciple

The prophet describes a servant who suffers unjustly, yet responds not with anger, but with discipline and trust in God:

• He does not rebel

• He does not retaliate

• He does not curse

• He remains silent or prayerful

This is the tongue of Christ.

Christ as the Perfect Example

Think of Jesus:

• He was insulted

• Beaten

• Spat upon

• Crucified

Yet what did He say?

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

No curses.
No revenge.
Only prayer and mercy.

Where Does This Strength Come From?

Not from weakness.
Not from lack of pain.

It comes from trust in God.

As Isaiah says:

• “The Lord God helps me”

• “He who vindicates me is near”

The servant endures because he knows:

God defends the innocent.

Application to Our Lives

When people:

• Misjudge us

• Accuse us falsely you 

• Speak against us 

Ask yourself:

• Do I respond with anger?

• Do I repay evil for evil?

• Or do I respond like Christ?

Spiritual Instruction

We are called to:

• Return insult with blessing

• Replace curses with prayer

• Trust God as our defender

As Jesus teaches:

“Pray for your enemies and do good to those who hate you.”

Key Insight

We remain calm not because:

• We feel no pain

• We are weak

But because:

We know God is fighting for us.

Amen.

Tuesday of Holy Week – Mass Readings and Reflection March 31, 2026

First Reading: (Isaiah 49:1–6)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 71)

Response: “My mouth will tell of your salvation, Lord.”

Gospel: (John 13:21–33, 36–38)

Gospel Proclamation

At that time, Jesus, reclining with His disciples, was troubled in spirit and testified:

“Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.”

Reflection: 

Today’s Gospel centers on a single act that leads Jesus to His Passion.

What is Betrayal?

Betrayal is the violation of trust and confidence.
It is:

• A break of loyalty

• The exposure of what was meant to be kept in love

• A wound inflicted by someone close

Betrayal is painful.

Yes, Jesus was destined to die, but did it have to be through betrayal?
Judas was not forced. He had a choice. And yet, he chose to betray.

The Pain of Betrayal

What makes it more painful is this:

It came from within.

“One of you will betray Me, one who has eaten with Me.”

The enemies of Jesus needed information. They did not know His movements. They needed an insider.

Judas chose to be that insider.

As Scripture echoes:

“If an enemy had insulted me, I could bear it… but it was you, my companion, my close friend.” (cf. Psalm 55:12)

The Kiss of Betrayal

Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss.

• A kiss: a symbol of love

• Yet used as a tool of deception

What should express love became a weapon.

The Root of Betrayal

Something always leads us to betray.

For Judas, it was:

• The love of money

But for us, it can be:

• Desire for power

• Bodily pleasure

• Fear of authority

• The need to fit in

Every betrayal begins with a disordered appetite.

Not Just Judas…

Judas was not alone.

• Peter betrayed Jesus by denying Him

• The apostles fled in fear

They all failed in loyalty.

And What About Us?

Before we condemn Judas or Peter, we must look inward.

We betray Jesus when:

• We deny the truth

• We live contrary to our faith

• We choose sin over Him

• We fail our baptismal promises

We once said:

“I will follow You.”

Yet often, like Peter:

We deny Him in our actions.

A Surprising Mercy

And yet, this is powerful,

Even knowing Judas would betray Him,
Jesus still offered him friendship.

“The one to whom I give this morsel…”

Even at the edge of betrayal,
grace was still being offered.

Final Prayer

Dear Lord,
Many times, we too have betrayed You.
Many times, we have not been loyal to Your friendship.

We ask for Your mercy.

As we journey deeper into Holy Week:

• Help us to be faithful

• Help us to be loyal

• Help us not to make empty promises

But to truly follow You, even to the cross.

Amen.

Long Live the King