How to stop hoarding
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Many of us whose primary work is in service to the church may never find ourselves rich in earthly treasure. And yet, there still is a warning for us in today’s parable of the rich … Read More
Liturgy requires humility
I think most of us would agree with the statement the liturgy requires humility — until it is required of us. I remember the first liturgy committee I formed after I was hired as a parish liturgist. The pastor had … Read More
Keep it simple this Triduum
The Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time Last week we talked about avoiding historicizing the Triduum. When we try too hard to reenact the past, showing what we believe it to have looked like in the Upper Room, in the garden … Read More
Watching (ourselves) and waiting
The First Sunday of Advent It’s easy at Advent to become a bit overzealous with our rubrics around these four short weeks. Of course we should encourage one another to observe the distinct spirit of Advent and not let too … Read More
“What does the Gospel ask us to give that we cannot afford?”
Readings for the Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time I used to work for a bishop who took great pride in his homilies. He would type them out then mark the places where he planned to pause and the phrases he … Read More
What do you want Jesus to do for you?
Readings for the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time On back to back Sundays, we hear Jesus ask, “What do you want me to do for you?” Last week, James and John sought glory; this week, Bartimaeus seeks healing. The same … Read More
Clericalism isn’t just for clerics
Readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A One need not be ordained to participate in clericalism. You can find it in any liturgical minister who sees themselves as set apart for their own benefit. However, to be … Read More