Sunday and Daily Mass Homilies by Fr. Aristotle

Surrender Novena: Jesus, Take Care of Everything

Friday School Mass. 4.04.25.
In this homily, I recount a message from the teachings of Father Dolindo and the profound impact of the Surrender Novena. Reflecting on Jesus' guidance to trust Him fully, I share personal insights and encourage everyone, especially students, parents, and teachers, to find strength and solace in faith. Join me in this spiritual journey, and let's together say, 'Oh Jesus, I surrender myself to You, take care of everything.'
 

Restless Hearts: Fulfillment in God

Wednesday Mass 4.02.25.
In this homily, I reflect on the profound words of St. Augustine: 'Our hearts are restless until they rest in you.' Using this as a foundation, I explore how earthly desires and pleasures can never truly satisfy our deepest longing, which is a union with God. I emphasize the teachings of Jesus and the ultimate goal of our existence - to be unified with the Father, Son, and Spirit. As we journey through Lent, facing challenges in our practices of prayer, fasting, and charity, I encourage refocusing on Jesus to fulfill our true heavenly desires.

The Daily Decision: Choosing God in Every Moment

Monday Mass. 3.31.25.
In this homily, I share a touching encounter with a young adult struggling with sin and the initial steps of faith. We discuss the importance of allowing God's love to transform us, moving beyond simply seeking miracles to deep, genuine belief in Him. Through an example from the gospel, we see how faith grows from everyday actions, shaping us into giants of faith like Mother Teresa and other saints. It’s a reminder that building faith is a continuous journey of trust and daily decisions.

The Heart of Almsgiving: Embracing Compassion and Generosity

4th Sunday of Lent. 3.30.25.
In this homily, I delve into the significance of almsgiving during Lent. I encourage self-examination of our relationship with God and highlight the importance of drawing closer to Him through these practices. I share personal anecdotes and insights to emphasize how these Lenten disciplines help us curb pride, selfishness, and excess, ultimately leading us to a deeper connection with the Lord.
 

The Yes That Changed the World: The Annunciation

The Annunciation. 3.25.25.
In this homily, I discuss the significance of the Annunciation of Mary. I reflect on Mary's unwavering faith and her profound 'yes' to God's will, contrasting it with our human tendency to hesitate and seek proof. Through Mary's example, we learn about obedience, trust, and the importance of saying 'yes' to God in our daily lives.

God's Word: The Heart's True Manual

Monday Mass. 3.24.25.
In this homily, I discuss a conversation with a young person struggling with life's challenges. We explore how following God's path, even when the world tries to lead us astray, brings peace and transformation. Through the story of Naaman's healing, I emphasize the importance of obedience to God's word for a fulfilled and joyful life.

Hungry for God: Embracing Lent's Spiritual Discipline

3rd Sunday of Lent. 3.23.25.
In this homily, I reflect on the journey of Lent and pose essential questions about our spiritual practices: How is your relationship with God? How are your prayer life, fasting, and almsgiving? Through personal anecdotes and experiences, I discuss the importance of these practices, including a story about a young person struggling to reconnect with their faith and my own experiences with fasting. Join me in exploring how these spiritual disciplines help us turn away from distractions and draw closer to God. Remember, our Lenten journey is ultimately about focusing on the Lord and growing in our faith.

The Door Only You Can Open: Welcoming Jesus

Friday School Mass. 3.21.25.
In this homily, I reflect on a powerful conversation with a high school student yearning to reconnect with God. We explore the essential questions we all face about our relationship with the Lord and the desire for deeper connection. Learn about the 'Jesus at the Door' ministry and its profound message of allowing Jesus into our hearts by turning the metaphorical doorknob only we can open. This Lenten season, let's remember Christ's sacrifice and reassess our spiritual commitments. Will you open the door to Him?

Saint Joseph: Protector, Intercessor, and Spiritual Father

Feast of St. Joseph. 3.19.25.
In this homily, I share my personal journey of discovering the profound power and intercession of Saint Joseph. Initially, I underestimated his role, thinking he was only for married men. However, through divine nudges and the influential book by Father Donald Calloway, 'Consecration to St. Joseph,' I learned about St. Joseph's significance. This talk emphasizes the unity of Mary and Joseph, and their roles as our spiritual parents, urging us to seek their protection and embrace their guidance in our prayers.

Authenticity in Faith: Who Are You When No One's Watching?

Tuesday Mass. 3.18.25.
In this homily, I reflect on the lesson my spiritual director taught me during seminary about maintaining integrity both in private and public life. Drawing from Jesus' words on the Pharisees, I challenge us all—clergy and laity alike—to examine our motivations behind prayer, fasting, and almsgiving during Lent. I emphasize the importance of aligning our private selves with our public personas to truly deepen our relationship with Christ.