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A space for deepening our faith through reflections on the Sunday readings and major feast days. Explore insights, spiritual lessons, and practical takeaways to enrich your journey with Christ. Let every Sunday and feast day be a moment of grace and renewal The Most Holy Trinity - Year C Drawn Into the Life of the Trinity The Feast of Pentecost - Year C The Coming of the Holy Spirit and the Birth of the Church Ascension of the Lord He Ascended into Heaven… and We Are Sent Forth Sixth Sunday in Easter - Year C Jesus gives us peace that is beyond all understanding Fifth Sunday in Easter - Cycle C Love one another Fourth Sunday in Easter - Year C The Voice of the Good Shepherd Third Sunday in Easter - Year C The Chair may be empty, but the Church is alive. Even in the waiting, Christ leads. The mission continues. The Spirit moves. The Church is not on pause. 🙏🔥 Divine Mercy Sunday Even behind locked doors of fear and doubt, the Risen Jesus comes with one message: “Peace be with you.” His wounds are not signs of defeat, but fountains of mercy. Today, on Divine Mercy Sunday, we are reminded that no sin is greater than His love, and no doubt too big for His grace. Like Thomas, may we move from doubt to faith and echo, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus, I trust in You. Easter This Easter, discover how the Resurrection brings hope, healing, and purpose—even in a broken world. Jesus is alive, and He calls you by name. Good Friday Good Friday is the solemn day when Christians remember the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. It is a day of deep reflection on the suffering, sacrifice, and unconditional love of Jesus, who gave His life to save humanity from sin. Maundy Thursday On this sacred night, we remember Jesus’ final supper, His act of humble service, and His new commandment to love. From the table of the Eucharist to the basin of foot-washing, Jesus shows us what true love looks like—freely given, poured out, and lived in service. Palm Sunday On Palm Sunday we celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem — a moment of praise, palms, and hosannas. But behind the joy lies a deeper truth: the road ahead leads to the Cross. Fifth Sunday in Lent - Year C On this 5th Sunday of Lent (Year C), we reflect on Jesus’ encounter with the woman caught in adultery—a powerful lesson in mercy, justice, and conscience. Fourth Sunday in Lent - Year C On this Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare Sunday), we reflect on the Parable of the Prodigal Son—a story not just about one lost son, but two. One strays in reckless living, the other in self-righteousness. Yet, at the heart of it all is a father whose love and mercy know no bounds. Third Sunday in Lent - Year C Every moment is a call to repentance! On this Third Sunday of Lent, Jesus reminds us that every event in life—good or bad—invites us to turn back to God Second Sunday in Lent Season - Year C The Transfiguration of Jesus reveals the power of transformation through divine encounter. This sermon explores how spending time with God in prayer during Lent can truly change us from within. First Sunday in Lent - Year C Victory in the Wilderness: Jesus, the New Adam ✝️ As we enter Lent, we reflect on Jesus' triumph over temptation in the wilderness—a victory that reverses Adam’s failure. His example teaches us how to resist temptation through prayer, fasting, and trust in God. Eight Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C Reflection on Jesus' teachings in Luke 6:39-45 for the Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C). Explore the dangers of spiritual blindness, the need for humility, and how our actions reveal the true state of our hearts. Discover the call to true discipleship, self-examination, and bearing good fruit in our daily lives Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C "Love your enemies, do good, and be merciful—just as our Heavenly Father is merciful. This Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 6:27-38) challenges us to live out radical love, forgiveness, and generosity. Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C Discover true happiness through Jesus' Beatitudes. This sermon contrasts worldly success with lasting joy in Christ, urging us to trust in God rather than fleeting comforts. Show More

Jubilee Year Testimonies celebrate God’s grace and faithfulness in the lives of His people. Read inspiring stories of spiritual renewal, healing, and blessings in the lives of people.e. The Jubilee Year is the time to deepen our faith. Trish's Testimony The Long Road: A Journey from Grief to Grace Jismy's Testimony My journey from India to New Zealand Remigia's Testimony On Divine Mercy Sunday, Remigia experienced a miracle that left even the neurosurgeon speechless Max Broadbent's Testimony A testimony of deep personal faith, suffering and transformation. This testimony beautifully illustrates how suffering, when united with Christ, can become a source of grace and transformation, ultimately softening the heart and deepening one's faith. Benedicta's Testimony From battling a rare incurable disease to surviving against all odds, the powerful story of Benedicta Aaron highlights the miracles of prayer, unwavering family support, and divine grace over a decade. Perpeth Fernandes' Testimony She shares how Jesus appeared in her dream and healed her of leg pain Tereza Worlikar's Testimony Vaibhav shares with us the miraculous healing of his mother. Jude Fernando's Testimony Discover an inspiring story of Jude Fernando, a Christian Leader from Chennai. Greta Pillai's Testimony Greta Pillai from Muscat shares with us her deep faith in God. Fr. Vincent's Vocation Story Fr. Vincent shares his vocation story which began in Bahrain and fully realized in Mumbai Jeanette D'Souza's Testimony Jeanette shares with us the gift of a miraculous baby

What are the documents needed before Marriage What are the Documents needed before Marriage? 1. Baptism Certificate (not older than 6 months) including entry regar ding Confirmation 2. Pre-Nuptial Enquiry Form duly filled (in the presence of a priest) 3. Results of Banns/Assurance of banns published (issued by a priest) 4. Oath of Free State (if for some reason Banns are not published) 5. Certificate of Freedom of State (issued by a priest saying that subject is free to marry) 6. Civil Certificate of Marriage, if civilly married 7. If widow or widower getting married: Death/Burial Certificate of the previous spouse 8. If a person is getting married after annulment: Marriage Certificate Church Certificate of Annulment/Dissolution Decree of Civil Divorce or Nullity 9. If the Marriage is between Catholic and Christian/Non-Christian Dispensation from Impediments/Permission for Marriage Proof of age/address and also an affidavit from Non-Christian Promises to be signed by the Catholic

Understand the vital role of godparents in the Christian journey. Explore their responsibilities, spiritual guidance, and commitment to supporting the faith life of their godchild The Role of Godparents: A Sacred Responsibility Godparents hold a unique and sacred role in the life of a baptized individual. More than just participants in a ceremonial tradition, they are entrusted with the spiritual guidance and support of the baptized, walking alongside them on their journey of faith. The role of godparents has deep roots in the Church’s teachings and is a vital component of nurturing Christian discipleship. The Spiritual Role of Godparents The Church emphasizes that godparents are not merely symbolic figures but active participants in the spiritual formation of the baptized. Their responsibilities include: 1. Supporting Parents in Faith Formation Godparents act as co-educators in the faith, helping parents instill Christian values and traditions in their child. They provide encouragement and resources to ensure the child grows in knowledge and love of God. 2. Praying for the Baptized A central duty of godparents is to pray regularly for the spiritual well-being of the baptized, asking God for guidance, protection, and grace. 3. Living as Witnesses to Faith Godparents are called to live exemplary Christian lives, modeling virtues such as compassion, humility, and fidelity to the Gospel. Their actions should inspire and guide the baptized in their own journey of faith. Practical Responsibilities of Godparents Godparents’ roles extend beyond spiritual mentorship to include practical support: 1. Participating in Key Sacramental Moments Godparents should actively participate in the child’s sacramental milestones, such as First Communion, Confirmation, and even Marriage. Their presence reaffirms their commitment to the child’s spiritual growth. 2. Building a Lifelong Relationship Godparents should strive to maintain an ongoing relationship with the baptized, providing guidance, advice, and encouragement. This relationship serves as a source of stability and support, especially during times of doubt or difficulty. 3. Providing a Christian Perspective In a world full of distractions and challenges to faith, godparents offer a Christian perspective, helping the baptized make decisions that align with their values. Requirements for Godparents The Church outlines specific qualifications for those who wish to serve as godparents. These requirements ensure that godparents are prepared for their sacred duties: They must be practicing Catholics in good standing, regularly attending Mass and living according to Church teachings. They should have received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. They must be at least 16 years old and demonstrate maturity in their faith. If there are two godparents, one must be male and the other female. Non-Catholics may serve as Christian witnesses alongside a Catholic godparent, but unbaptized individuals are not eligible. The Lifelong Impact of Godparents The influence of godparents can shape the spiritual life of the baptized in profound ways. By staying connected and offering consistent support, godparents ensure that the baptized remain anchored in their faith amidst the challenges of life. Their prayers, guidance, and example help the baptized: Build a personal relationship with Christ. Develop a deeper understanding of Catholic teachings. Live out their faith in everyday life. Conclusion The role of godparents is a sacred vocation, rooted in the call to discipleship. It is a commitment to walk alongside the baptized, offering spiritual mentorship and unwavering support. For parents, choosing godparents is an opportunity to entrust their child’s faith journey to individuals who embody Christian values and can guide them with love and wisdom. For those asked to serve as godparents, it is a profound privilege and a call to deepen their own faith while nurturing the faith of another. In embracing their role wholeheartedly, godparents become instruments of God’s grace, helping the baptized navigate the journey of faith and grow in holiness.

In the Mass, during Communion Rite we recite "Lamb of God"four times. Why this title used for Jesus during the Mass? In this article you will read some of the reasons for using this title for Jesus. JESUS, THE LAMB OF GOD IN THE MASS At every Mass during the Communion Rite, we say three times, "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world." And then again the Priest raises the eucharistic species and says aloud: ‘’Behold the Lamb of God; behold him who takes away the sins of the world.’’ In less than a minute, we say four times, "Lamb of God.” Why is this title "Lamb of God" important enough to be mentioned here in the Communion Rite of the Mass? It is for two reasons: 1) The Eucharist is a meal, but it is also a sacrifice of the Lamb, who is Jesus Christ, and 2) The title "Lamb of God" has the connotation of sacrifice from the Old Testament. 1) Eucharist as both a Meal and a Sacrifice The Eucharist is both a meal and the sacrifice of Jesus. It is to emphasise the sacrificial and salvific dimension of the Eucharist. The sacrificed body of Jesus Christ, the lamb sacrificed for our sins, is given to us as nourishment in the Eucharist. It combines the Eucharistic meal and sacrifice dimensions. In this way, Jesus Christ makes of Himself a sacrificed body to be eaten in the Eucharist. 2. The significance of the title 'Lamb of God' in the Scriptures To get a better understanding of the title Lamb of God, we must see the Scriptures. In the entire New Testament, Jesus is called the Lamb of God only in the Gospel of John and in the Book of Revelation. In the Gospel of John, it is mentioned twice. It is John the Baptist who addresses Jesus with this title, and it is from here the phrase is borrowed in the Mass. And in the Book of Revelation, it is mentioned 28 times. No other title except this one is mentioned 28 times in the Book of Revelation. When John used the title "Lamb of God" for Jesus, the Jewish people understood instantly because of the sacrifices of the Old Testament, particularly the Sacrifice of Passover. At the Passover, the blood of a lamb protected the faithful Israelites from the Angel of Death. For John, Jesus is now the Lamb of the New Passover. He is truly the Lamb of God. To this title, John adds the universality of the purpose: "Who takes away the sins of the world," and not alone of Israel. Later, in Isaiah 53:7, the prophet Isaiah used this image of the lamb to describe the Messiah. The Messiah would be both the sacrificial lamb to atone for sin and the suffering servant. John identifies Jesus as "the lamb of God" in the sense of both the sacrificial offering for sin and the suffering servant. Interestingly, when speaking to the Ethiopian eunuch, who was reading this same passage from Isaiah, St. Philip explained how it referred to Christ and how He fulfilled it (Acts 8:26ff). In St. John's gospel, Jesus was condemned to death by Pilate on the preparation day for Passover at noon (Jn 18:28, 19:14), the hour when the priests began to slaughter Passover lambs in the temple. Also, the Gospel records that after the crucifixion, the soldiers did not break any of Jesus' bones in fulfilment of Scripture in the Old Testament where none of the Passover lamb's bones were broken. But the soldier thrust forward his lance, piercing the heart of our Lord; out flowed blood and water (Jn 19:34), always interpreted as signs of the life-giving sacraments of Holy Eucharist and Baptism. In the book of Revelation, the Lamb of God used for Jesus is mentioned 28 times. John sees in the vision of heaven Jesus as the Lamb in the liturgical worship of the heavenly assembly. He is the Passover Lamb of the New Covenant. This image of the Lamb of God in the Book of Revelation is one of victory. It is highlighting this notion by picturing the Lamb surrounded by angels, the "living creatures," and elders, who cried out, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honour and glory, and praise!" (Rev 5:12) Invitation to “Behold” In the Communion Rite, when the Priest invites people to partake of the meal, he says, "Behold." To look and really see who Jesus Christ is and what his Paschal Mystery is all about, behold the man! Look at the wood of the cross, where our Savior is hung! Also, it is a reminder of Jesus’ invitation in the Book of Revelation: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. I'll come in and eat with him if anyone hears my voice and opens the door." And then the Priest adds the words, "Blessed are those who are called to his supper." He is saying, according to the Apocalypse, "Blessed are those who have been called to the wedding feast of the Lamb." (cf. Apoc. 19:1–9) The faithful then reply with the words of the Roman centurion, who was awestruck by Christ’s humility and daring trust: "Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say a word and I shall be healed." (Mt. 8:8-10) May this understanding of the title Lamb of God help us to enter into deeper communion with the Lord and help us to focus on the Lamb who suffered, died, and rose for our salvation. As we gather around the altar of the Lamb, offering to Him our own hearts and pledging to be His servants, we may welcome him and become wedded to him in the Holy Eucharist. God bless you. Fr. Vincent Barboza

Catholicism4Catholics is a series of talks designed to deepen the faith and understanding of Catholics by exploring essential Church teachings. Rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium, these sessions provide clear and insightful explanations on key doctrines, helping participants grow in their Catholic identity and confidently live out their faith. Catholicism4Catholics Catholicism4Catholics is a series of talks designed to deepen the faith and understanding of Catholics by exploring essential Church teachings. Rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium, these sessions provide clear and insightful explanations on key doctrines, helping participants grow in their Catholic identity and confidently live out their faith.

Welcome to the Question & Answer page, where faith meets clarity! Here, we address common questions about Christianity, the Bible, Church teachings, and spiritual life. Whether you're seeking deeper understanding or looking for answers to tough questions, explore insightful responses rooted in Scripture and tradition. Question and Answer Your Question Submit Thanks for submitting!

The Eucharist is not merely a symbol but the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, as affirmed by His own words at the Last Supper: "This is My Body... This is My Blood." (Matthew 26:26-28). The Eucharist: The Real Body and Blood of Christ The Eucharist stands at the heart of Catholic faith, not as a mere symbol, but as the actual Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. This belief is deeply rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and the teachings of the Church, affirming the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. Biblical Foundations The words of Christ Himself provide the strongest testimony to the reality of the Eucharist. At the Last Supper, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, "Take, eat; this is My body" (Matthew 26:26). Similarly, He took the cup, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matthew 26:27-28). These words are not metaphorical; they indicate a profound mystery where bread and wine are transformed into His very being. In John 6, Jesus explicitly declares: "Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you" (John 6:53). When many of His followers found this teaching hard to accept and left, Jesus did not soften His words or correct a supposed misunderstanding. Instead, He reaffirmed the necessity of consuming His Body and Blood for eternal life. The Teaching of the Church The Catholic Church, from its earliest days, has unwaveringly upheld the doctrine of the Real Presence. The Church Fathers, including St. Ignatius of Antioch (c. 107 AD), spoke of the Eucharist as "the flesh of our Savior Jesus Christ" (Letter to the Smyrnaeans). St. Justin Martyr (c. 155 AD) also affirmed that the Eucharist "is not common bread and common drink but has been made into the flesh and blood of Jesus" (First Apology). The doctrine was further clarified in the Councils of the Church. The Fourth Lateran Council (1215) and the Council of Trent (1545-1563) articulated the belief in transubstantiation—the change of the substance of bread and wine into Christ’s Body and Blood while retaining their physical appearances. This remains the cornerstone of Catholic Eucharistic theology. The Mystery of Transubstantiation Transubstantiation is the term used to describe how the essence of bread and wine is transformed into Christ’s real presence. While the appearance (or "accidents") of bread and wine remain, their substance is wholly changed. This mystery surpasses human comprehension but is embraced in faith. The Eucharist is not a re-sacrificing of Christ but a participation in His one, eternal sacrifice made present at every Mass. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: "The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life" (CCC 1324). Through it, we are united with Christ’s saving work and drawn into deeper communion with Him. The Transformative Power of the Eucharist Beyond being a doctrine to believe in, the Eucharist calls for transformation in the lives of the faithful. When we receive the Body and Blood of Christ, we are not only nourished spiritually but are also called to become what we receive—living witnesses of Christ in the world. The Eucharist strengthens us against sin, deepens our unity with the Church, and prepares us for eternal life. Just as food sustains the body, the Eucharist sustains the soul, making us more Christ-like in our thoughts, words, and actions. Conclusion The Eucharist is not a symbolic act but the real and substantial presence of Christ. Rooted in Scripture, affirmed by Church Tradition, and experienced by millions of Catholics throughout history, it remains the greatest gift Christ has left for His Church. As we approach the Eucharist, let us do so with faith, reverence, and an open heart, ready to be transformed by the true presence of our Lord. "O Sacrament most holy, O Sacrament divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine."

Discover powerful healing story of Tereza Worlikar A Miracle of Life: My Mother’s Journey of Survival and Faith A Life-Threatening Diagnosis My mother, Tereza Worlikar, underwent open-heart surgery for an aneurysm on January 28, 2022. The operation began at 11:00 AM and lasted until 4:30 PM. During the procedure, excessive bleeding posed a critical challenge, and the doctor estimated only a 5% chance of survival. To manage the bleeding, her chest was temporarily closed with roller gauze. The Power of Prayers In this dire moment, I turned to the Lord Almighty in prayer and sought intercession from a priest, nuns, and friends. Miraculously, at 11:30 PM, the bleeding stopped. The following morning, January 29, 2022, the doctor reopened her chest, removed the roller gauze, and delivered the incredible news: "Your mother has been saved by God." He went on to share that in his 30 years of surgical experience, this was only the second time a patient had survived when all hope seemed lost—a true miracle. Gratitude for a Second Chance By January 30, my mother, Tereza, was off the ventilator. Now, three years later, she is living a healthy and fulfilling life. We are profoundly grateful to God for this second chance He has given her. Vaibhav Worlikar (Son of Tereza Worlikar) Share your story If you are inspired by Vaibhav Worlikar mother's story, feel free to share your own story with us Email to us your story at: jy2025withvincent@gmail.com In this Jubilee Year let us share God's love and mercy by sharing our faith stories or God experiences Leave a comment below to share anything that inspired you about Tereza Worlikar's Testimony comments debug टिप्पणियां एक टिप्पणी लिखें एक टिप्पणी लिखें Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Bring Alive the Word of God is a journey to deepen our faith by immersing ourselves in Scripture. Discover how God’s Word speaks to us today, transforming hearts and lives. Through reflection, study, and practical application, we seek to make the Bible a living reality in our daily walk with Christ. BRING ALIVE THE WORD OF GOD TO BEAR FRUITS The gospel of John 1:1-3 says “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. …..and all things were made through him.” If the word is God who created everything, including us, then it would be appropriate to keep that word in our hearts like Mary. The fitting place for the word of God should be in the person’s heart, mind, spirit, and soul and not in the “book.” The book is just a container to collect the word of God to be used for future but it lies there dormant. The real container or vessel for God’s words is the human person where it should live and should come alive. The end product of the word of God should always be the human person to whom it was addressed. Relationship between the human person and human word To understand better the relationship between the word of God and the human person, it is worth looking at the relationship between the human person and the human word. As human beings, we are gifted with the speech of a word. We communicate with other human beings and sometimes with other living beings in words. We express ourselves and our feelings through words. These words are our extension which goes out into the world. The Power of Words We communicate with the outside world through our words, and it is a powerful force given to us by God who created us in his image and likeness. (Gen 1:26-27). Our words have power. It has the power to do good or evil, to break or build, and to make happy or sad. Both ways we can use this tool for the good or detriment of others and ourselves. Words from others in our daily life Words do matter to us. Words are used in our relationships in family, office, community, and everywhere. Our relationship depends on our words and the words of others. We love and appreciate a person who uses words of love, affection, concern, care, motivation, courage, praise, thanks etc. Good words are effective for the speedy recovery of those who are sick. Beside them we also need positive words to keep us motivated and healthy What the word of God says about the human word There are scriptures from the old and new testaments telling us about the power of the human word. The power of the word is given to us by God and we are responsible for it how we use it. The word of God warns us against the wrong use of our words. James in his letter says “tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire.” (Jam 3:5). The small member of our body, the tongue can cause great damage to others. We should always be careful with our words before we speak because we are accountable for words which can do good or harm to other. There is no doubt why Jesus said, “on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.”(Mt 12:36). It is we who are responsible for others' well-being and destruction. What the scientific community say about the power of human word What the word of God has said already in the Scripture about the power of human words, scientific studies now confirm it. Some of the studies show the power of words and their effect on physical and mental well-being. It shows that positive and negative words not only affect us on a deep psychological level, but they have a significant impact on the outcome of our lives. There are other scientific experiment that says our words affect things like water, plants and other living beings. The Power of the Spoken Word Human beings have always expressed words in oral and written form. But the oral or spoken word is more effective than the written word. In the spoken word we see the words lively and effective. This form is used very effectively by teachers, preachers, orators, politicians, salespersons and actors to communicate and convince listeners. If the person is a good speaker, it is more effective. The more you master this skill more you are effective. The Oral Word of God in the Scripture The oral tradition of the Scripture shows us the powerful impact of the oral word of God in the life of the church. The word of God first existed in the oral form. The written word of God is a record of the oral word of God for the future generation. In case of Jesus we see him speaking to his people orally. At the later stage, his spoken words were put down in writing for the benefit of his future followers. We see the wonderful thing about the oral word of God in the first four centuries of the church. The believers without the written word of God were more effective and powerful in converting people to the Lord than now with the whole written word of God in the Bible. The written word of God in the Bible came into existence at the end of the fourth century when the Church at the Council of Hippo (393) and Carthage (397) declared 73 books as inspired. The early believers had the good news in the oral form in their hearts and minds. Through these spoken words they performed powerfully wonders and miracles to draw more people to the Lord. How to bring alive the word of God to bear fruits in our life? If we need miracles to happen in our life, we need to bring alive the word of God from the Bible. This we do it by reading the word of God daily. By reading the Bible daily, we bring the words out from the Bible into our hearts, minds, spirits and souls. By reading the word of God we are shifting it from the written form into the oral form which was the original form of our Lord. As the liturgy of the word in the Mass is a preparation for the liturgy of the bread, similarly daily reading of the word of God in our personal life will be preparation for rest of the day. The word of God meditated by us remains in our hearts and minds like the early believers which will help us to face any challenges of the day. The reading of the word of God should always be accompanied by prayer as Vat II in Dei Verbum 21 says “we speak to him when we pray; we listen to him when we read the divine oracles.” Finally, do it as a daily exercise. Repeat some of the scripture passages which are comforting and edifying. When you feel low, the word of God will lift you. More than any human words, God’s word will be strong enough to motivate you. Instead of negative self-talk which keeps you back substitute it with the word of God which will help you to go through your day's journey. Do not allow anyone or anything around you to make you unhappy rather allow the Lord to make you happy for his words are very empowering to keep you happy.

Eucharist as Sacrifice The Eucharist is not only the real presence of Christ but also His supreme sacrifice made present to us. In every Mass, the one sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the Cross is re-presented, not repeated, offering the faithful a direct participation in His redemptive act. This sacrificial dimension of the Eucharist is central to Catholic faith and worship. The Biblical Foundation of the Eucharistic Sacrifice The concept of sacrifice is deeply rooted in the Scriptures. In the Old Testament, God established a covenant with His people through sacrificial offerings, such as the Passover lamb (Exodus 12). These sacrifices foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the true Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). At the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the Eucharist as the new and eternal covenant, saying, "This is My Body, which is given for you... This is My Blood, which is poured out for you" (Luke 22:19-20). By these words, Christ united the Eucharist with His sacrifice on Calvary, making it clear that the Mass is a sacrificial offering. The Eucharist and the One Sacrifice of Christ The Catholic Church teaches that the Eucharist is the same sacrifice as that of the Cross, though offered in an unbloody manner. The Council of Trent affirmed that in the Holy Mass, "the same Christ who offered Himself once in a bloody manner on the altar of the Cross is contained and is offered in an unbloody manner" (Session 22, Chapter 2). This means that the sacrifice of Christ is not repeated but made present at every Mass. This teaching is reflected in the words of St. Paul: "For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26). The Eucharistic sacrifice allows believers to participate in Christ’s offering to the Father, uniting their prayers, sufferings, and lives with His perfect sacrifice. The Eucharist and the Church’s Sacrificial Offering The Eucharistic sacrifice is also the sacrifice of the Church. As the Body of Christ, the Church offers herself with Christ to the Father. This is why the priest, acting in the person of Christ, prays during the Mass: "Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the Almighty Father." The faithful, therefore, are called to offer their own sacrifices—prayers, sufferings, and good works—in union with Christ’s sacrifice in the Eucharist. The Transformative Power of the Eucharistic Sacrifice Receiving the Eucharist with faith strengthens believers to live sacrificially. Just as Christ gave Himself completely, those who partake in His Body and Blood are called to offer themselves in love and service to others. The Eucharist transforms hearts, calling the faithful to imitate Christ in their daily lives. St. Augustine beautifully expressed this when he said: "Be what you see; receive what you are" (Sermon 272). In other words, those who receive the Eucharist are called to become a living sacrifice, mirroring Christ’s love and self-giving. Conclusion The Eucharist is the supreme sacrifice of Christ, made present in the Holy Mass, allowing us to unite ourselves with His redemptive offering. It is not merely a remembrance but a real participation in the one, eternal sacrifice of the Cross. Through the Eucharist, we are strengthened to live sacrificially, imitating Christ’s love and bringing His presence into the world. As we approach the altar, let us do so with faith and reverence, offering our lives to God, just as Christ offered Himself for us.

Discover the Jesus'mission of bring Good News to the poor, freeing captives, restoring sight and lifting the oppressed in the year of Jubilee "Living the Mission: Embracing Jesus’ Call in the Jubilee Year Today, we reflect on a profound moment in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus announces His mission to the world. In Luke 4:14-21, we read how Jesus, filled with the Spirit, returns to Galilee after His time in the wilderness. News of His teachings spreads like wildfire, and He is welcomed with admiration. When He enters the synagogue in Nazareth, His hometown, all eyes are on Him. He reads from the scroll of Isaiah and declares: “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” This moment is not just an announcement but an invitation—to recognize who Jesus is and what He came to do. Jesus’ Mission This passage reveals two profound truths: 1.It highlights the salvation God promises to His people. 2.It identifies Jesus as the one anointed by God to bring this salvation to life. In Jesus, the message and the messenger are one. He is the Good News. His words, His actions, and His very being embody the Good News. When Jesus speaks of liberation, healing, and hope, He is not describing a distant future. He is bringing that reality into the present. The Year of the Lord’s Favor When Jesus proclaims “the year of the Lord’s favor,” He refers to the Jubilee Year described in Leviticus 25. This was a sacred time observed every 50th year—a year of rest, restoration, and renewal. Debts were forgiven, slaves were freed, and land was returned to its original owners. But Jesus takes this concept further. He ushers in a new era—an age of grace and redemption that begins with Him and extends into eternity. This is not merely about social or economic restoration. It is about the deeper liberation of our souls.The Jubilee Year reminded God’s people of His provision and their call to live as a community of love and equality. Similarly, as we celebrate the Jubilee Year this year, it is an opportunity to reconnect with the redemption Christ offers. It reminds us of the mercy and freedom we are invited to experience, not only in this life but in the fullness of eternal life. Living the Mission Today Jesus’ mission speaks directly to our lives today. He calls us to: •Bring Good News to the Poor: Jesus’ mission begins with the poor. The poor are not just those lacking material wealth but also the spiritually impoverished, the marginalized, and those yearning for God’s presence. In a world where inequality persists, we are challenged to be bearers of good news—to share resources, offer compassion, and affirm the dignity of every person. •Release to the Captives: Jesus speaks of freedom from all that binds us—sin, fear, addiction, and oppression. In the Jubilee spirit, we are called to break chains, advocate for justice, and stand with those who are voiceless. •Restore Sight to the Blind: This refers not only to physical healing but also to spiritual awakening. Many are blinded by pride, greed, or despair. Jesus restores sight, allowing us to see God’s truth and love. Let us open our eyes to the needs of our brothers and sisters and to God’s presence in our lives. •Freedom to the Oppressed: Jesus identifies with the oppressed and lifts them up. In our communities, there are many who feel crushed by life’s burdens. We are called to be instruments of encouragement and hope, reflecting the compassion of Christ. •Proclaiming the Year of the Lord’s Favor: The Jubilee is a time to realign our lives with God’s will. Jesus proclaims that God’s favor is here and now. This is a call to repentance, renewal, and action. Conclusion “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” These words challenge us to recognize that the salvation Jesus offers is here and now. As we walk through this Jubilee Year, let us embrace His mission as our own. Let us be bearers of good news, agents of freedom, and witnesses to God’s unending mercy. May our lives proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.