By Most Rev. Gerald R. Barnes
My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In recent weeks and months we have seen reports of terrible acts of violence against innocent people. In a Colorado movie theater; at a temple of peacefully worshipping Sikhs; in Syria, where so many blameless children and families are caught in the crossfire of the political uprising, and in our own city of San Bernardino, where 30 people have already been murdered in 2012 as of this writing.
By Most Rev. Gerald R. Barnes
Today we receive God’s greatest gift to us – new life in the Resurrection of his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. We feel the warmth of God’s love and the hope that He seeks to kindle in us perhaps stronger than on any other day of the year. I join you in this joyful exaltation. Alleluia! He is risen!
By Most. Reverend Gerald R. Barnes
We know that as Catholics we will often find ourselves swimming against the tide of modern culture. We are confronted with secularism, relativism, materialism and other “isms” that challenge our belief in a culture of life and dignity for all. Still, Catholics are more integrated in the modern world than ever before – in schools, workplaces and places of social gathering. We are exposed to other value systems and moral opinions, often expressed strongly to us. What do we do? The tide of culture is strong, yet we are called by God to stand up for what is timeless, the worth of every single human person. He asks that we not only carry this belief in our hearts but that we pursue it as a matter of justice in our communities and beyond.
By Most Reverend Gerald R. Barnes
Our faith promises great reward in heaven. But who could argue that it’s nice to receive commendation once in a while for our earthly achievements at work, in sports, academics, the arts or in ministry. I can also tell you that, from my perspective, it’s just as gratifying to give someone an award as to receive one.
By Most Rev. Gerald R. Barnes
Jesus invites us in Matthew’s Gospel to take refuge in him when we are weary and troubled. “Come to me all you who labor and are burdened…,” He calls to us.
