As we begin the month of February, the Holy Father invites the whole Church to pray for children suffering from incurable diseases and for their families, that they may receive the medical care and support they need, and that they may never lose strength and hope. This intention touches something very tender in the heart of God. Few things reveal human vulnerability more clearly than a suffering child. And yet, it is precisely there—where life seems weakest—that God is most powerfully present, sustaining, consoling, and giving hope beyond what we can see.
The readings this week gently guide us into the virtue of humility. The prophet Zephaniah urges us to “seek the Lord… seek humility.” Humility is not weakness, but truth: knowing who we are before God. It is a challenging virtue. When we try to live humbly, we may feel overlooked, misunderstood, or even taken for granted. Humility often comes with a cost. The question is: are we willing to pay that price? Are we willing to trust that God sees what others may not?
Saint Paul reminds the Corinthians that God does not choose according to the world’s standards. “God chose what is weak… what is lowly and despised.” This is deeply consoling, especially for those who feel inadequate, powerless, or burdened by suffering. Our value does not come from strength, success, or recognition, but from belonging to Christ. In God’s eyes, humility becomes a place of grace.
The Gospel of the Beatitudes brings this message to its fullness. Jesus declares blessed the poor in spirit, the meek, the merciful, the peacemakers, and those who suffer for righteousness. These are not easy paths, but they are holy ones. The Beatitudes remind us that God’s kingdom belongs not to the proud or self-sufficient, but to those who entrust themselves completely to Him.
Before I close, I want to express my sincere gratitude to you for your overwhelming response to my call to participate in Project Advance. What gives me great joy is that participation has increased from about 13% to 31%. You heard the call and generously responded. Thank you! Because of your generosity, our parish will receive $102,319.12 this year for parish use. This allows us to begin thinking concretely about much-needed projects, including the replacement of the church carpets.
Thank you for your faith, generosity, and humility. May God bless you abundantly.
