Fr. Raymond: Sunday Homilies

December 24, 2025 (Christmas)

This homily reframes Christmas away from gifts, lights, and nostalgia toward its deeper meaning: God becoming human to bring light into our darkness and train us into union with Christ.
Through contemplative prayer and a simple invitation to "make room" in the heart, the message encourages listeners to move from background sentiment to actively receiving and bearing the light of Christ.

December 21, 2025 (Advent IV)

Mary and Joseph go together as the physical and spiritual union that brings new life: the mystery of the Incarnation, the womb as a return of the garden, and Joseph’s quiet protection.
The homily reflects on the gift of children and spiritual fruit in marriage, urging men to protect their families and everyone to pray for pregnant women and for abundant, faithful families.
It is a call to hope, prayer, and stewardship of both physical and spiritual life as we prepare to welcome Christ.

December 14, 2025 (Advent III)

Jesus points to the signs and the prophets, inviting listeners to look closely at what has happened and to discern who they are truly seeking.
This Homily explores how discipleship shifts from following leaders to recognizing Jesus himself, the role of prayer and the church in pointing us to Christ, and the simple but weighty question: What am I really looking for?

November 30, 2025 (Advent I)

This homily reframes Advent as active preparation rather than idle waiting, calling listeners to deepen their interior prayer life and readiness for Christ's coming.
Practical suggestions include creating a dedicated prayer space at home, practicing the rosary and Lectio Divina, setting achievable goals, and imagining what it means to be taken by the Lord.
The homily challenges you to use Advent to grow spiritually so you are different and more prepared on Christmas Day and whenever Christ returns.

November 23, 2025 (Christ the King)

This Homily explores the unique kingship of Jesus — humble, sacrificial, and unlike any earthly ruler — and invites listeners to recognize their dignity and purpose as citizens of his kingdom given at baptism.
It urges listeners to live out their vocations (marriage, priesthood, religious life) as a way to unveil God’s kingdom here and now, and encourages a 20-minute reflection to imagine and commit to bringing that kingdom into daily life.

November 09, 2025

This Homily explains the rare celebration of the dedication of the Lateran Basilica, its history as a gift after the Edict of Milan, and its role as the seat of the Bishop of Rome.
It ties the feast to the Gospel in which Jesus overturns the tables, showing that worship is no longer confined to buildings but lives in Christ and in us.
Finally, it invites listeners to personal reflection and renewal — to let the saving water flow, turn over what needs changing in their hearts, and deepen their worship and witness.

November 02, 2025 (All Souls)

This Homily reflects on the Gospel image of Christ separating the sheep from the goats and urges listeners to avoid complacency about salvation, which is a gift already received in baptism.
It encourages regular, deepening prayer, meditation on death and suffering, and concrete spiritual growth over the coming year so we may live as those who recognize the Shepherd’s voice and care for others.
Practical steps include taking an inventory of your prayer life, setting goals for growth, and opening your heart to the needs of neighbors as you prepare for eternity.

October 26, 2025

This Homily contrasts two figures from the Gospel—the proud Pharisee who seeks self-approval and the humble tax collector who recognizes his need for God’s mercy.
It invites listeners to examine which inner voice they feed, encouraging daily humility, honest confession, and choices shaped by love and eternity.

October 19, 2025

This Homily explores the challenging gospel call to "pray always without becoming weary," using the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge to urge continual, heartfelt prayer.
Practical lessons include setting regular prayer times, learning from Moses’ persistent intercession, facing spiritual weariness by remembering heaven and mortality, and committing to consistent prayer practice for lasting fruit.

October 11, 2025

This Homily reflects on Jesus' healing of ten lepers, highlighting that only the Samaritan returned to give thanks and was truly converted.
It challenges listeners to recognize grace, move beyond complacency in faith, and offer genuine thanksgiving that draws us closer to God and our neighbors.