Sunday and Daily Mass Homilies by Fr. Aristotle

9/14/25: The Cross Is God’s Answer to Evil

Exaltation of the Cross. 9.14.25.
In this homily, I reflect on the heaviness of this past week and the sadness we feel when faced with tragedy, division, and evil in our world. But I remind us that the only true answer to evil is the cross of Jesus Christ. The cross, once seen as failure, has become our hope and salvation. Through it, God shows us His mercy and love, and invites us to trust that even in suffering, He is bringing life.

9/12/25: Finding Strength in the Name of Mary

Friday Mass. 9.12.25.
In this homily, I share how calling on the holy names of Jesus and Mary brings comfort, strength, and protection when we face fear, sadness, or worry. We are reminded that we are not just human beings going through life’s struggles—we are spiritual beings created for eternity with God. In the midst of uneasiness, the holy names anchor us in hope, peace, and purpose.

9/10/25: Putting on Christ, Not the World

Wednesday Mass. 9.10.25.
In this homily, I reflect on the witness of the men at That Man Is You and connect it with St. Paul’s call to “seek what is above.” Living for Christ means putting to death the ways of the world and putting on His life instead. The Christian journey is not easy—it’s a daily battle between God and not God—but with Christ, we can rise above and find true joy, even in struggle.

9/9/25: Tenderness That Wins Souls

Tuesday Mass. 9.09.25.
In this homily, I share the story of St. Peter Claver, who devoted his life to serving those no one else wanted to serve—the slaves arriving in South America. His compassion and tenderness showed the love of Christ in the most forgotten places. Like him, we are called to win souls not through harshness, but through a heart that is both strong and tender, united with the love of Jesus and Mary.

9/8/25: Mary Brings Us Into the Story of Jesus

Monday Mass. 9.08.25.
In this homily, I share how the long list of names in today’s Gospel isn’t just history—it’s our story. Every name points to God’s plan of salvation, leading to Mary and then to Jesus. And the good news is that your life is part of that story too.

9/7/25: Putting God Above Everything Else

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time. 9.07.25.
In this homily, I share the story of a young adult who admitted how hard it feels to follow Christ, especially when the cross seems heavy. Jesus reminds us that discipleship means putting Him above everything else—even family, comfort, and our own desires. It’s not easy, but when we carry the cross and go all in for Christ, we discover the promise of life with Him forever.

9/5/25: Shedding the Old to Make Way for the New

Friday Mass. 9.05.25.
In this homily, I reflect on the life of Mother Teresa and her “call within a call” to serve the poorest of the poor. Her courage to let go of the old and embrace the new reminds us of Jesus’ teaching on new wine and new wineskins. Like her, we are invited to shed pride, comfort, and selfishness so that Christ can fill us with something new.

9/03/25: Life Is Not About You—It’s About God

Wednesday mass. 9.03.25.
In this homily, I reflect on the words “Oh, how great is the mercy of God who allows man to participate in such a high degree in His divine happiness.” Life is not about us—it’s about God and His glory. Psalm 52 reminds us that while the world offers emptiness, those who trust in the mercy of God are like green olive trees planted in His house. When we remember eternity and keep our eyes on Him, everything in life shifts toward gratitude, faithfulness, and hope.

9/02/25: I Believe I Shall See the Goodness of the Lord

Tuesday Mass. 9.02.25.
In this homily, I reflect on Psalm 27 and the Gospel, reminding us that God is our light and salvation even in the midst of trials. The psalmist gives us hope: “I believe I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Whatever burdens we carry, Scripture strengthens us to trust that God’s promises will be fulfilled—in this life and in eternity.

8/31/25: Life Is Not About You

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time. 8.31.25.
This morning I went to the funeral of Father Seamus, a priest who lived his life with joy and humility. Even though I didn’t know him well, his witness—and the gospel—reminded me that life is not about us, but about God and others. In this homily, I reflect on humility, Jacob’s ladder, and the call of Jesus to serve those who cannot repay us. May this inspire you to pray for humility and to live with a heart open to others.