Fr. Steve Mateja's Podcasts: Recent Episodes
Fr. Steve Mateja
The Pen
The Person
The Predicament
The Holy Spirit is a person! More than a gift giver. More than just a power!
Fr. Steve was the keynote speaker for one of the Graduation Ceremony for the Catholic Biblical School of Michigan. What would Jesus SEE is an opproutunity for us to see with the eyes of Christ through of Love and Friendship. Sharing with another person the shared vision of reality.
Fr. Steve uses the Ascension in battle terms and how we are called to respond. He asks WHAT is the Ascension? WHY is it important for us? While exploring the WHO.
Fr. Steve loves Jesus and he is very savvy with credit card points. He gives a unique talk to a mens group on credit card points and the Gospel.
Love and obedience is the theme of the gospel today and ultimately the theme of the Last supper discourses
obedience is the visible proof of loving Jesus.
A divine appointment is a meeting with another person that God has specifically and unmistakably arranged. The Holy Spirit sets up such encounters because someone needs what He can offer them through you. You are one conversation away from God bestowing His favor on them as you act as His channel of blessing. Often that encounter will be with someone you have never met before.
Grizzly Catholic Campus Ministry's first annual Grizzly Catholic Day was held on May 2, 2025 at St. John Fisher. It was, as Fr. Steve expresses, not a Gala, but a FRIENDSgiving--a FUNraiser. An opprotunity to share what God has done for us over the last year and what He wants to do in the year to come.
Fr. Steve continues his Preaching Series "the Way to Calvary" with a Lectio Divina meditation on the wounds of Christ. Grab your tissue. Don't weep because you feel sorry for Jesus. Weep because you are sorry for your sins!
"The Words from the Cross: 7 last sayings of Jesus"--5th Sunday of Lent (C) Lenten preaching series: "the way to Calvary"
FatherSteve.net
Men's Conference St. John Fisher and St. Joseph men gathered on a Saturday morning to have Holy Mass and join the Men of Christ Conference
"The Carrying of the Cross”—3rd Sunday of Lent. Lenten preaching series: “The Way to Calvary”
Fr. Steve will be preaching a 6-part homily series during Lent called "The Way to Calvary". Homilies will be posted on my website, www.FatherSteve.net. The series will contain the following topics:
1.) Judas and St. Peter 2.) The Agony in the Garden 3.) The Carrying of the Cross 4.) The Crucifixion, the Blessed Virgin Mary, & St. John 5.) Words from the Cross 6.) A Meditation on the Wounds of Jesus
“The two Gardens--Jesus agony”—2nd Sunday of Lent. Lenten preaching series: “The Way to Calvary”
Fr. Steve will be preaching a 6-part homily series during Lent called "The Way to Calvary". Homilies will be posted on my website, www.FatherSteve.net. The series will contain the following topics:
1.) Judas and St. Peter
2.) The Agony in the Garden
3.) The Carrying of the Cross
4.) The Crucifixion, the Blessed Virgin Mary, & St. John
5.) Words from the Cross
6.) A Meditation on the Wounds of Jesus
Fr. Steve lead 36 college students in an early monring Lenten reflection on Jesus agony in the Garden.
“St. Peter and Judas”—1st Sunday of Lent. Lenten preaching series: “The Way to Calvary”
Fr. Steve will be preaching a 6-part homily series during Lent called "The Way to Calvary". Homilies will be posted on my website, www.FatherSteve.net. The series will contain the following topics:
1.) Judas and St. Peter
2.) The Agony in the Garden
3.) The Carrying of the Cross
4.) The Crucifixion, the Blessed Virgin Mary, & St. John
5.) Words from the Cross
6.) A Meditation on the Wounds of Jesus
Jesus comes down into our mess, for our happiness. In this life and in the life to come.
Peter has more than one call story. He is first called at the bed of his dying Mother in Law; then here on the water in his boat; when he is out on the water and Jesus is walking toward him; and lastly, following the crucifixion and resurrection, there on the beach when Jesus called him again.
Jesus is calling you too!
Father Steve met with many couples and poured into them about spirtual warfare. After he prayed over each couple individually.
Fr. Steve explores in his weekly bible study: Wednesday in the Word the Chruch's gift of the Sunday readings
The Historical and Scriptural meaning of this Feast Day
The Messianic meaning of this Feast Day
But so what? What does it all mean for us today
Fr. Steve preached about the gifts given to us by the Power of the Holy Spirit. These gifts are found in 1 Corinthians 12--that only in the spirit can we call Jesus Lord!
Fr. Steve helps the High School kids come to know that they are wanted by God. In a time where young people don't know their worth, Fr. Steve delivers a most important message to them to help the know they are love by God.
Tony Melendez, born without arms, but knows he is wanted by God.
https://youtu.be/V6kEHAg30eY?si=WBUlPQYeOAbKdtr2
Drew leads us in a phenominal understanding of the Church's teaching and raising up of Mental prayer.
Fr. Steve leads us in a Lectio meditation which begins at 33:20
Fr. Steve asks the why--why was Jesus Baptized in the Jordan...why was He even Baptized to begin with?
Fr. Steve leads the people in a meditation on the Holy Nativity. Meditation is engaging our senses: both internal and external. To place ourselves in the scene with Jesus and "see the scene" with our soul.
Fr. Steve recently gave a couples talk to some local school families. Fr. Steve lays out that God's design in marriage is to serve each other!
“St. Joseph”—Third Sunday of Advent. Preaching series: “From the heart of the Manger”
Advent week 1: The Shpeperds and Angels
Advent week 2: The Blessed Virgin Mary
Advent week 3: St. Joseph
Advent week 4: Meditation on the Manger
Christmas: the Crip
Fr. Steve leads a Preaching series: “From the heart of the Manger”
Advent week 1: The Shpeperds and Angels
Advent week 2: The Blessed Virgin Mary
Advent week 3: St. Joseph
Advent week 4: Meditation on the Manger
Christmas: the Crip
Psalm 23 Even though I walk in the valley of the shadow of death I will give you Thanks!
a procession
the King of Death
a resolution
Let's make a sure resolution to make Jesus the King of everything in our lives!
This is why we believe what we believe! in the midst of crisis, trial, and certainly in death, know that everyone is watching you!
Fr. Steve lead a talk and Q/A for over 100 men at St. John Fisher as the men's group from St. Joseph hosted and sponsored the evening. Fr. Steve gave the reflection on the life of Blessed Karl of Austria and had the men of God reflect on three things in the face of living in the secular world: peace, faith and family. Blessed Karl emmulated these so well and few have heard his story.
We hear the Shema in the first reading and the Gospel today from Jesus. The Shema was spoken by the Jewish people daily, it was: Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is one. And as for you, you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. Jesus is actually giving us a New Shema today!
Fr. Steve lead the OCIA group in a discussion on the Saints, asking the questions: Where are they? Who are they? Why do we admire them?
This Gospel is all about how rich people can't get to Heaven...right? Not really. The Rich Young Man isn't ready to follow Jesus because his love is disoreded.
Why do we return to send constantly? Like a dog returns to its vomit only fools return to Folly. We must child proof, our hearts, and our lives in order to secure salvation. We have to cut off and route out sin in our lives.
Why is humility so important to God? What is Jesus saying when He brings the little child out?
Take up your cross and follow me! Jesus gives us this command, but why? Fr. Steve examines the depth of Christian suffering and offering up our crosses for the salavation of the world
Fr. Steve opened up the OCIA session at St. John Fisher with the topic of the Image of God as Father and some proofs of His existence
The Deaf man's fear
My old music director
Nametags
Let's lay our fear at the feet of Jesus and leave it there in trust!
"The Sacred Heart and the Eucharist"--preaching series on the Eucharist 4 of 5 (John 6:51-58) 20th Sunday OTb
Like a Pelican who pierces it's breast to feed it's young, the Church does the same
The Assumption is for you!
Pope Pious XII quotes:
In their homilies and sermons on this feast the holy fathers and great doctors spoke of the assumption of the Mother of God as something already familiar and accepted by the faithful. They gave it greater clarity in their preaching and used more profound arguments in setting out its nature and meaning. Above all, they brought out more clearly the fact that what is commemorated in this feast is not simply the total absence of corruption from the dead body of the Blessed Virgin Mary but also her triumph over death and her glorification in heaven, after the pattern set by her only Son, Jesus Christ.
Hence, the august Mother of God, mysteriously united from all eternity with Jesus Christ in one and the same decree of predestination, immaculate in her conception, a virgin inviolate in her divine motherhood, the wholehearted companion of the divine Redeemer who won complete victory over sin and its consequences, gained at last the supreme crown of her privileges—to be preserved immune from the corruption of the tomb, and, like her Son, when death had been conquered, to be carried up body and soul to the exalted glory of heaven, there to sit in splendor at the right hand of her Son, the immortal King of the ages.
"If it's just a symbol...to hell with it!"--preaching series on the Eucharist 3 of 5 (John 6: 41-51) 19th Sunday OTb
Fr. Steve continues his preaching series on the Eucharist and opens up the understanding of Transubstantiation and the non-Catholic viewpoints.
If the prophets foretold that the Messiah would come and save the people with a New Exodus that means Jesus’ saving of us is an Exodus and there must be a New Passover "The Exodus and the Jewish roots of the Eucharist"--preaching series on the Eucharist 2 of 5 (John 6: 1-15) 18th Sunday OTb
Do you believe God is powerful? Do you believe in the power of God? Or do you treat like Santa Claus?
There is power in the Eucharist--POWER in the Mass! Why, because it is a Sacrifice.
Why do Catholics pray to the Virgin Mary? Do we worship her? Find out in Fr. Steve's final homily in the series on the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Fr. Steve begins his preaching series on the Virgin Mary, beginning with if the relatives we hear about in the Gospel today are the sons/daughters of Mary and Joseph or not. Did Jesus have brothers and sisters or not?
preaching series on the Blessed Virgin Mary 1 of 5: The Perpetual Virginity of the Virgin Mary
Altoids. A sick child. The Angel at Fatima. By our acts of Love we can make reparation for all the crimes and lack of love poured out toward Jesus in the Holy Eucharist--we can soothe His wounded heart.
The Holy Spirit is POWER. Do we realize that? You have the power of God at your fingertips.
Fr. Steve takes a deep dive into the beauty and meaning of why the Ascension is so importnat to us as Children of God.
Jesus tells us that if we abide in Him then He will give us life. He is the VINE--we are the branches. Life is only in Him.
Wait? I thought this was Good Shepherd Sunday--not Gate Sunday? Jesus refers to Himself as "the Gate" over 8 times in John chapter 10. Why?
Thomas was not in the upper room when Jesus first appeared on Easter Sunday. But Jesus came in search for him to give him His mercy.
At every Mass the Cross is made present to us at Calvary. Mass is a timeless moment. Barabbas was set free...and its and image of you!
The priesthood is for you; it is for your salvation. Pray for your priests that they may be strong.
Fr. Steve preached the Mass on day two of the parish mission and preached on the theme of surrender. He later handed out the surrender prayer novena cards to all in attendance and they prayed day one together.
Fr. Jason Brooks lead the parish mission at St. John Fisher, Oakland University during the Lent 2024. A profound opprotunity to grow in faith and dive into what the Lord is saying to us in what Fr. Steve laid out for his vision for the parish as Acts 4 in '24. Belive it! Was Fr. Jason's first words pulling from Fr. Steve's state of the parish address.
Fr. Jason Brooks preached a parish Mission at St. John Fisher on the Fifth Sunday of Lent. His theme was the parish theme that Fr. Steve layed out earlier in the year of: Acts 4 in '24.
So many figures in scripture have had lives that were imperfect and yet God used them in profound ways to bring others to Him. He wants to use you in the same way.
Three points:
What is the goal of life?
A windshield
A Lebanese Priest
don't die in mortal sin
People say all the time "I am spiritual but not religious". Does it even matter to God? Yes, it does! God has created us for worship--for religion.
"Spiritual but not religious? Well Religion matters to God!"--3rd Sunday Lent (B) 3/3/2024
John 2:13-25 The cleansing of the Temple
Fr. Steve and the CCM group put on a spectacular prayer gathering at Oakland University where numerous kids of different faith backgrounds joined in and stopped by for a bit.
Bishop Francis Kalabat visited Saint John Fisher on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 to celebrate the Chaldean mass and to spend time with the Chaldean and Roman Catholic students. We had an amazing turnout and a great evening together. Building a community of Catholic life at OU.
Three points:
- Where do I find my consolation?
- Why do we have to pray?
- How did Jesus pray?
Fr. Steve address a Come Encounter Christ Mission talk at the Disciples Unleashed Family of Parishes (St. Francis/St. Maximilian, St. Therese of Lisieux, and St. Isidore). He spoke on the Power of Christ and how it is still available to us today!
Fr. Steve invited his friend John Kowalski out to share his story of healing and ministry. After his talk we prayed over a number of kids and saw some powerful healings.
Jesus calls Peter, Andrew, James and John to be His disciple. He is calling you also to follow Him!
Fr. Steve breaks open the latest Papal document that has caused much confusion: fiducia supplicans. We must give the Holy Father the benefit of the doubt that this was meant to strengthen same-sex couples in their lives to help them repent and come to Jesus.
There is a story of the shepherds overhearing the Angels talk to each other as they appeared to them in the fields: "why do you think He became so small...for them?" A question we must ask ourselves this day.
The Church ramps up her energy here from December 17-23 and the use o the O Antiphons is at the mix of it.
Our Family of Parishes Young Adult Group met at St. John Fisher and Fr. Steve gave an Advent Reflection to them
The Rorate Caeli Mass is an ancient Mass in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is offered in the Darkness with only Candles to light the Altar--symbolizing the Light of Christ who is to come.
The story of St. Lucy and God's providence for us
This Feast Day is glorious and beautfiul, but it is also the patronal feast of the United States of America. But why? It has to do with Christopher Columbus. All things to Jesus through Mary!
Bible Study--Wednesday in the Word. Mark 1:1-6 2nd Sunday of Advent
Why does Mark begin with this prophecy?
Our DRE, Judie Maguire gave an extraordinary talk at our womens conference a few months back but it didn't record. She was invited to give the talk at our young women's group that meets on Wednesdays. She speaks of the Blessed Virgin Mary and her how she realtes to the Father as daughter!
Fr. Steve shared a poignt word from the Lord where he believes God is calling all of us to make time for God. What ever that may look like for us individually--we must make time.
Fr. Steve was invited to give a talk to a large mens group that meets every Tuesday morning at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs in Beverly Hills. He spoke on the Blessed Virgin Mary and her role as intercessor.
Fr. Steve offered a votive Mass for Chastity for the college aged and young adult men of St. John Fisher. Dozens of brothers gathered to pray together for themselves and others in this broken overly sexulized world.
Sacrifice
Sacramentals
Sacraments
Sacntity (strength)
Saints
Fr. Steve lead a pilgrimage to Lourdes, Fatima and Zaragoza. Most of us know the stories of Lourdes and Fatima, but what is the story of Zaragoza?--do we know that one? Fr. Steve shares the amazing story of Our Lady of the Pillar, the Patronness of Spain, in Zaragoza.
Be encouraged! Stay the course! Don't give up! Preach Jesus!
Fr. Steve and the pilgrim group were so blessed to have Mass at the Grotto where Our Blessed Mary appeared to Bernadette Souberouis. Father preached on “looking up” to Our Lady!
The wise virgins, and the second reading speak about death. Brother Steve related those readings to the privilege of being at Zaragosa Spain and praying for The Dead
at Saint Mark historic Church in Madrid. The pilgrim group providentially celebrated the glorious patronal feast day of Our Lady of Almudena. Fr Steve tells the story and reminds the pilgrims to remember why they’re here
Virgin of Almudena https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virgin_of_Almudena
Our Blessed Mother appears at Fatima and gives the three children specific orders. Are we listening?
Mass in honor of Corpus Christi at the Eucharistic miracle site of Santarem, Portugal.
https://www.catholicmom.com/articles/the-eucharistic-miracle-of-santarem
Saint Anthony of Padua was actually born in Lisbon, Portugal. Today we had Holy mass at the house of his birthplace, which is now a great basilica with his relics present.
Fr, Steve, preached on his life and how we must surrender our trust to God as Anthony did.
Campus Ministry at Oakland Univeristy is alive and thriving. We welcomed Retired Bishop John Quinn to give a great talk this week to the students on Confirmation.
Fr. Steve gave a teaching on the Saints for the Order of Christian Initation for Adults (OCIA) this week.
Eyes. Mind. Heart. Soul. Let's seek to keep our eyes on the Cross of Christ. Our mind set on Heaven. Our Hearts on the Eucharist and our Souls consecrated to Jesus daily!
Fr. Steve was invited to give a talk to 6th, 7th and 8th graders at St. Lawrence Catholic school about the harmful use of Technology. And to use it for the GOOD and not the BAD.
Fr. Steve hosted the second annual Theology of the Body event for Junior High and Teens at St. John Fisher. Over 50 kids came together to break out into groups and have great discussions. The night ended around the bonfire where we shared Holy Ghost Stories--stories of the Holy Spirit and mae smores.
Pray for the chasity of the youth!
Sr. Mary a member of the SOLT community gave an extraordinary talk at the SJF women's conference rooted in being a little girl and the struggles of family life.
St. John Fisher Oakland U hosted an incredible women's conference. Here is the talk by Hubert Sanders, father of three girls and campus minister.
SJF hosted an annual women's conference on 10-14-23. It was a tremendous blessing a success. This was Fr. Steve's homily from that mornings Mass.
The Wedding Banquet
Our attire
The Gift we bring
The garment symbolizes so much and it is for us for Eternity...and for now!
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians 4:6-9
Brothers and sisters: Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you. The word of the Lord.
Each and every worker gets the same pay--no matter when they are hired. What is the point of following Jesus now, if we're all going to get Heaven together tomorrow? The answer...Him. We get Him now! We get the privledge of working along side of Him in the Vineyard. To know His voice and love Him now!
(we forgot to hit record on the recorder. This is a audio recording from the YouTube video.)
The wicked servant is forgiven 160,000 years wages by the king and is unforgiving to the one who owes him 100 days wages. There is no unforgivness in Heave--it is not optional.
We continue our journey through Matthew Chapter 18, the community regulations of being part of the Church.
Fr. Steve delivered a State of the Parish Address this past Sunday at St. John Fisher, student parish at Oakland University. He posed the question: "Why do we exist?--Why does St. John Fisher Exist?"
We must become an Acts 4 Church! Acts 4 in '24 is the theme that Fr. Steve has layed out for us over this next year for us.
Believe it! Acts 4:12
Proclaim it! Acts 4:20
Pray for it! Acts 4:31
Live it! 4:32
Jesus calls St. Peter Satan, how can it be that the Rock becomes Satan immediately? Perhaps it is because he opposes Jesus--can we do the same and thus be called Satan?
There is a truly fascinating belief in Jewish tradition about The Rock of Mount Moriah, one in which Fr. Steve just discovered himself.
Wednesday in the Word--Bible Study. 21st Sunday OTa 2023
I splurged a little and had to get a new recording device. It is a little more work to upload but let me know what you think of the quality.
You are Peter and on this Rock!
Why does Jesus call this Cannanite woman a dog? Ever wonder that? It is actually quite significant and profound. She is a perfect model for how we must apporach Jesus for salvation...on our knees begging!
"Why get married in the Church? This is a very common question in our world today. Is it even important? What happens at a Catholic wedding? There is Hope for marriages that are struggling!
What is Marriage? A marriage is only between a man and a woman. That is God's voice clearly in the Sacred Scriptures and in His Church.
Marriage is not about what two people do but about who they become...one in Christ.
One man. One woman.
“What’s on the platter?” The silver platter is offered to you by God and the Church. If you want to Divorce Proof your marriage you must accept what is on the platter!
The anointing of the sick is important for salvation. Remind your family to call a priest at end of life for you.
“Prepare yourself!”—(preaching series on the Sacraments Week 6 on Anointing of the Sick). 14th Sunday OTa
We do not know when God will call us home. Now is the time for us to prepare and make a good confession prior to our facing God in the moment of The Almighty juding our souls.
Fr. Steve continues his preaching series on the Sacraments--today on Holy Priesthood. The priest is the great mediator between God and Man. Pray for your priests!
Continuing our preching series, Fr. Steve preached on Corpus Christi this week and answered the Question: "why is it that only Catholics can receieve Holy Communion?" And then spoke about how we can love Jesus where He is most unloved.
Why Baptism? What happens at Baptism? Who can Baptize? This is the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity, Fr. Steve begins a preaching series opening up with Baptism and helping us understand the importance of this Sacrament.
Trinity one in three; three in one! How do the scriptures show the fulfillment of Jesus in the Trinity? God both Transcendent and Immanent all at the same time!
Did you know the Feast of Pentecost was/is actually been a Jewish feast day? Two points to reflect on: a math problem and chcoloate Milk.
Pentecost vs Shavott. The 50th vs the Weeks. 49+1. The fullment of Passover is Pentecost. The fulfillment of Easter is Pentecost!
Jesus tells us He will send us the Advocate when He leaves us and will not leave us orphans! The Paraklete is the one who Stands Beside another!
The Holy Spirit was present at the beginning, during and will be at the end of time. You know what else was present at the beginning the end and with Jesus at the center of His ministry?--Motherhood!
Jesus is abundant life! Life in Him greater--let's seek to hear his voice and find Him even when we get lost or stumble!
Don't ever give up praying for your loved ones, just like Mrs. Cleopas didn't for her husband and son.
Fr. Steve was invited by the Christian Club at a local Public School this week (Rochester Adams High School) to encourage the young people in their faith.
He shared three scriptures and answered questions after.
Jeremiah 1:4-9 God has known you from the very beginning of your life. He loves you and calls you his own!
Luke 2:41 "Search for God in the midst of chaos"
Romans 8:31-38 "what can seperate us from the Love of Jesus Christ"
The solution to apathy! A work of God! And the source that melts hearts! The message of Divine Mercy is of God!
God's plan and our continued crosses. Does following Jesus mean we will be void of suffering?
Fr. Steve opens up the Sacred Scriptures for us for this upcoming Palm Sunday readings. Hosanna in the Highest!
Fr. Steve gives his second night talk for the parish mission at St. John Fisher, Oakland University Studen Parish, on Peter and Judas. One repents, the other doesn't.
St. John Fisher, Oakland University parish hosted a three day parish mission. Fr. Steve gave a two part talk on some of the characters of Lent. Part 1: Joseph of Arimathea.
Are you that desperate for Jesus to allow Him to use spit on your eyes? He can only quench a thirsty soul?--a desperate soul.
Hear why Jesus uses spit and clay.
Our young adults invited Fr. Jim Kean and Fr. Steve an event in a restaurant called Pints with a Priest. It was a fun evening and filled with some good questions.
Fr. Steve invited the Archbishop to celebrate Mass at St. John Fisher and to address our booming and growing college and young adult ministry. On Sunday March 12th the Archbishop celebrated Holy Mass and after gave a talk to the students and young adults. EIGHTY-EIGHT 18-25 year olds gathered to hear him speak? Where is that happening? Pray for our community and our growth.
Fr. Steve was invited to speak to the men of St. Frances Cabrini where he sereved from 2019-2020. This is the talk he gave to the men of the parish.
Where is your foundation? Are you feeding your family? Claim spiritual fatherhood over your home and children.
Fr. Steve was invited to speak to the men of St. Frances Cabrini where he sereved from 2019-2020. This is the homily from that Mass where many other parishioners attended.
The color purple--why?
Wednesday in the Word: 3rd Sunday of Lent Bible Study with Fr. Steve. Fr. Steve has been doing a weekly Bible Study on the weekly readings--a deeper dive into the Scriptures for the last five months. Many have asked for them to be recorded.
Fr. Steve gave a talk on Sunday night to the CCM (Catholic Campus Ministry) group at Oakland University on Saints Relics. Fr. Steve has been gifted many relics over the last many years and he explains the Church's teaching on Relics and why we use them and why they are permitted.
If you or your family has a relic of a Saint, discern giving it to Fr. Steve for his ministry purposes so that the Saint may be glorified in a much more profound way. You may contact him at: FatherSteve2012@gmail.com
The form is the manifestation of beauty. The Transfiguration is the manifestation of Divinity--of Heaven on Earth. This moment is not a sign or a symbol pointing to God--this is God revealing what we have to come to us!
Forgive your enemies—pray for those who persecute you. Perhaps the hardest words in the entire Gospel. How? Is it even possible today?
Fr. Steve gathered at 30 couples at St. John Fisher, Rochester, MI, to speak to young married couples about marriage. Until Death do us part. Get each other home! That’s the goal.
Louis and Zellie, pray for us.
Timothy and Maura, pray for us!
God the Father has set us free from bondage to slavery and given us His Son. Why would He want to destroy us? He saved the Isarelites in the desert and He has saved you too; the law and freedom!
Why does Jesus use the metaphors of us being Salt and Light? Fr. Steve had the experience to go down into the Detroit salt mines. His experience help us answer how we can be Salt and Light to the world.
Fr. Steve gave a mens talk at Homegrown Brewing Company that he titled: The Three P's of the Masculine Heart. In our world today men are often forgotten and sidelined in the midst of the chaos of the world. We need real men who will stand up and come forward to lead their wives, and children to Heaven. Men who provide, protect and are priestly sanctifiers for their homes! Be that man!
Father Steve offers a single teaching on the apologetics of purgatory. Followed by some good question and the answers for the college students.
Fr. Steve gives his testimony of how he follwed Jesus as a disciple and later as he heard the call of Jesus into priesthood.
What is the priest and a call to arms. That is the question at hand!
Fr. Steve preached on the need for small groups some months back—the need to “get small”. He has lead prayer with many groups and this group asked for a talk. Following is the reflection from he gave to 12 couples in the area who meet regularly.
Get small! Depend on each other so that we can build the kingdom!
John the Baptist gives us the perfect model for how to evangelize. He points. He is humble. He gives testimony. But is he pointing, humbling himself, and giving testimony to a cute and cuddly lamb? No, he is not.
A true amazing site to be seen. We gathered around a makeshift altar and sang Christmas carols to our New Born King. We were joined by people from all over the world—literally! Kenya, Vietnam, Peru and Lithuania were just those I was able to speak with. Many more came and prayed during the Mass.
Epiphany truly is Jesus being the light to all of the nations!
Rome Pilgrimage—second Mass St. Francis of Assisi tomb (Assisi)
Simple faith is extraordinary faith. The saints had simple faith—focused on Jesus. The story of St. Francis creating the manger scene in context of the feast of Holy Mary Mother of God.
Rome Pilgrimage—second Mass (San Marco) in Florence—LOOK UP!
Our group had Mass in Historic San Marco Church—just down the street from the Doumo of Florence.
The group has arrived in Florence and meet up with Fr. Steve. While there was no room at the Inn for Jesus, Mary and Joseph, so too there was no room for the group to have Holy Mass. So they were all cramped into a small conference room with only 10 chairs or so for the 40+ people.
There they became family on the Feast of the Holy Family. We journey together as one on the pilgrimage of life.
Interuptions. Thanons and New Life.
Jesus is the great interuptor. God wants to interupt you in your life where you are at, will you allow him to interupt you?
What if Jesus didn't come for us? What if the Virgin Mary said "no" to the Angel Gabriel? The answer is hell. We would all be doomed. But we do have a savior. Our Lady did say YES! We have hope and that is what we celebrate next week at Christmas! Rejoice!
The Last Things: Heaven
Prisioners. Pilgrims. Paradise. Where do we go after we die? What is Heaven like?
The Sacrament of Marriage is hard. if we stand shoulder to shoulder with our spouse than we can see the Glory that awaits us!
The Feast of the Immcaulate Concetption is one the Greatest Feasts in our Church. Today Fr. Steve asks us the question: "Who is she?" We all have to anser the quesiton, "Who is she?" in our own lives.
Fr. Steve recently was invited to a Non-Catholic Christian school in Metro-Detroit. The histroy class of around 20 were covering the Reformation. They asked for a Catholic voice to discuss the topic of Justification to the prodominately Protestant school community. What follows is that talk by Fr. Steve given and recorded with permission by the school administrators.
Is Purgatory another destination for the soul? Or is it the purification of the soul in preparation for it's resting place with God. Purgatory is scriptural and has constantly been taught by our Holy Catholic faith. God in His Mercy offers it to us.
The Apple. The Golf Ball. Michigan Football.
Father Steve continues to preach his homily series on the Last Things--today he preaches the difficult topic of Death. We must be prepared and "live life backwards!"
Each month our parents for religous education gather for additional adult faith formation. Fr. Steve recently spoke with them about the Sacraments of Initiation and Saints Relics.
Fr. Steve began his preaching series on The Last Things this week which will culminate on the 4th Sunday of Advent. Jesus Christ is the King of the World and the one who sits on the Judgment seat as mediator between the Father and man. Our time for Mercy is now--but also, the time for mercy for our loved ones is now also. Invite them to repent!
The world we are living in finds it self in hoplessness. These are dark days. What is our hope? Who is our hope? We only find our hope in Jesus Christ!
A Jewish prisioner
An old-old man
Hope or hopelessness
What we need in this world is bold witnesses! Are you willing to live for Jesus in the world?
Recently Fr. Steve lead a group of High Schoolers and Junior High students in a conversion and Q and A about the "Birds and the Bees". We called it "The meaning of your body--the Birds and the Bees with Fr. Steve".
Fr. Steve invited in qualified men and women to lead the private group discussions, which our children desperately need today. Following we had a bonfire and fellowship.
This talk is Fr. Steve addressing the parents while the kids went down to their discussion groups. After which the parents stayed in adoration praying for their kids and their vocations.
The Saints, in the Church Triumphant cheer us onward, while we, the Church militant fight the good fight to get there...home!
Fr. Steve shares his dramatic story of healing this past week. The same God who healed Fr. Steve is the same God who Zachaeous is searching for.
Our God is alive! When we encounter Him our lives are changed.
Erin Mersino, Mary Lockwood, Dr. Joann Smith, Kara Dowler join Fr. Steve Mateja in answering the questions of those gathered. There were almost 200 people who came to the event and asked many great questions on 11-26-2022.
Fr. Steve and his prolife team lead a discussion on 11-26-2022 at St. Mary Monroe. Here is Fr. Steve's testimony of healing and opening talk on this deadly Proposal 3 on the Michigan Ballot.
I hate death...God hates it more.
John and Sandy O'Shaughnessy run a group called "Grieving with Great Hope". Thye lead a session at St. Joseph, Lake Orion and Fr. Steve gave the opening address.
Yahweh Nissi! The Lord is our Banner. What does that mean?
We know His victories and we march under it!
Fr. Steve lead a discussion on Angels Sunday night to the CCM (Catholic Campus Ministry) at Oakland U.
Are Angels like humans? Are they godlike? Why do we need them? Can I name my guardian angel?
God is passionately in love with you. He is in pursuit of you! He went after Naman and He went after the Lepers. He is coming after you too!
Fr. Steve, and Fr. Jim met with the young adults from Northern Oakland County to have a bonfire Q&A. while roasting marshmallows, they discussed topics such as “why pray for the dead?” Is “XYZ a mortal sin?” And “what is your favorite book?”
Listen, as father Jim and father Steve, take turns answering all of their questions.
Lord increase our faith! But, What is the difference between faith and belief? Belief doesn't automatically translate into action. Faith is belief put INTO action.
There are no second chances. This is the only shot you get to get to heaven. Sin is missing the mark and when we sin we must ask God for His Mercy. He always gives it, but we must beg it before we meet Him on our last day.
1) The trial judge
2) why was the rich man in hell?
3) Lazarus who?
Fr. Steve gave a talk this past Sunday to Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM) on the Holy Eucharist.
all Sacraments have a pass, a present, and a future perspective.
The Father is awaiting your return to the sacrament of confession. He is waiting to robe you in fine garments and remove your stained, filthy garments.
Am I a beliver of Jesus or am I a follower? Jesus asks those who follow Him to hate their parents and spouses and children. What does that mean?
Humility! No one wants it, we all want to be in charge and be in control of our own lives. But yet the Lord asks us to humble ourselves. Those who humble themselves are loved more by God! Jesus came to serve not to be served.
Humility is TRUTH!
How many will be saved? Who will be saved? Jesus answers the question for us today in the Gospel and elsewhere in the Scriptures. Often times it seems like we as Believers are just riding in first class on the same plane with every other religion, "we're all going to the same place, just different means to get there," is often the thought with many in the world today. Is that true?
Jesus tells us to strive to enter the narrow gate! He is the gate!
Jesus says He has come to establish divison not peace--how is that? isn't he the prince of peace? He has come to bring His peace, to those who know Him and surrender to Him. Let's set the world on fire with His love!
The Virgin Mary was the first to hear the Word of God proclaimed to her and the first to receive the Divinity of Jesus. Surely she would be the first to inherit the kingdom from her Son.
Who is the fool? Am I foolish? Soloman wrote three books: Song of Songs, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. He became the fool and rested! We cannot rest in the Christian life!
"Lord teach us how to pray!", is the request of the disciple of Jesus. He reponds with the words of the "Our Father". But who is "our" Father? The first step in prayer is knowing the Father.
But who is my neighbor?
God gives us the commandments to experience freedom and His love--not to remain in bondage. Our new sister in Christ, "Gianna", shows us how to love God today and our neighbor.
Her story is inspiring and beautfiul testimony of faith, courage and witness of love.
What is a Disciple--what does he do--and am I a Disciple? All that a beliver in the Lord Jesus has to do is point the way back home to the Lord!
On Friay June 24, 2022 the Supreme Court overturned the Roe vs Wade decision. It has happened. We have faught so hard for this moment as pro-life missionaries and it has finally happened. The time is now. We were born for this moment in history. We must show the world who we are as Catholic faithful and what it is we believe.
There are only two sides to this discussion: God's side or not God's side. Be on God's side with this issue.
Upon this moutain!
In 2015 Fr. Steve hiked the Camino de Santiago and climbed O Cebreiro Mountain along the way where there was a Eucharistic Mircale in the 14th Century. What happens at the bottom of the Moutain is even more telling!
Where is our Moutain? And what happens at the bottom of it?
Last week on Pentecost 50 Nigerian Catholics were killed as they worshipped the Majestic Trinity while at Holy Mass. Where are they now?
Come Holy Spirit! Come and set our dampened hearts ablaze with burning charity for you!
Have you doused the fire of the the POWER of God in your life? Ask for the flame of the Holy Spirit!
Shared with permission and encouragment from the family, this is the homily from Ron Bartold, a parishioner at St. Mary Mystical Rose who died unexpectedly.
May the precious blood of Jesus pour over him and may he be given eternal rest in the Kingdom prepared for him.
Fr. Steve worked hard to establish men's minstry in his time at St. Mary Mystical Rose, St. Augstine and Holy Family. On 5-11-2022 over 125 men gathered for the first of many Masses dedicated to Men's Ministry.
Fr. Steve preaches on the five attributes of St. Joseph that each Catholic man ought to have.
Our Blessed Virgin Mother--Our Lady the Queen of Heaven gives us one command: "do whatever He tells you!"
Father Steve offered the traditional Latin Mass (TLM) on May 6, at old Saint Mary’s Greektown. He preached on the reality we have lost our fervor and adoration for the holy Eucharist because we have downsized the office of the priesthood. Here at the TLM the priesthood is elevated to a lofty beautiful level, because it is the hands of the priest that brings us the holy Eucharist.
There is so much uncertainty in the world, but we know that Jesus is risen. St. Peter had so much uncertainty in his life--he went back fishing after seeing the Risen Lord. Now Jesus forgives him on the shore. Why did Jesus choose St. Peter? Because he could humble himself before God!
Today is the Feast of St. Catherine of Siena. Fr. Steve speaks on friendship with the saints and each other, as well as the model of St. Catherine was for us to demand more from Holy Mother Church!
Jesus' words to Catherine on the Priesthood:
The reverence you pay to [priests] is not actually paid to them but to me, in virtue of the blood I have entrusted to their ministry. If this were not so, you should pay them as much reverence as to anyone else, and no more. It is this ministry of theirs that dictates that you should reverence them and come to them, not for what they are in themselves but for the power I have entrusted to them, if you would receive the sacraments of the Church….
So the reverence belongs not to the ministers, but to me and to this glorious blood made one thing with me because of the union of divinity with humanity. And just as the reverence is done to me, so also is the irreverence, for I have already told you that you must not reverence them for themselves, but for the authority I have entrusted to them. Therefore you must not sin against them, because if you do, you are really sinning not against them but against me. This I have forbidden, and I have said that it is my will that no one should touch them. (116)
Why did Jesus choose the Sunday after Easter to have his celebration of Divine Mercy? Why not Palm Sunday?
{16min onward is renewal of Baptismal promises}
Esto Fidelis usque ad mortem et tibi dabo Coronam Vitae--Remain Faithful and I will give you the Crown of Life.
That is the promise Jesus offers to those who love Him. If you have met Him, know what He has done for you, and why He did it they we will ESTO FIDELIS...remain faithful! Just as John did.
Happy Easter! He is Risen...Truly He is Risen!
Why? Why did Jesus choose to die on the Cross on Good Friday? To redeem us?--great but what does that mean?
Once we know, let's now live our faith as St. John the Beloved Disciple did.
Why would Jesus do this? All of it? That's the question we're going to explore this entire Holy Week--why?
And then examine the why through the eyes of St. John, the Beloved Disciple.
What if today you died and you stood before the Father and He said to you: Why should I let you into Heaven? How would you repsond?
Father Steve gave a talk at a women’s Lenton conference. He addressed for unknown female saints relating their great work to harbor priests from harm and then highlights the Beauty of the feminine heart. How it is that women so often do not need to God on the Mountain top, but in the mundane.
Mercy given, Mercy Received, is Mercy known. The Father is longing for your return to Him in confession? Why do you stay away?
Our suffering makes no sense unless it is united to the Cross of Christ and when it is it can bear fruit. Don't waste this suffering!
As we make our way to the Cross of Christ this Lenten Journey, let's offer our suffering for souls!
Is Jesus Trustworthy? Why does suffering happen to good people and what does the Transfiguration have to say about our suffering?
Fr. Steve continues his Lenten preaching series: The Way to the Cross--a practical Lent, as he talks about suffering this week and next.
Fr. Steve cotinues his Lenten preaching series titled: The way to the Cross--a practical Lent.
Jesus shows us how to fight the temptations we each face.
Allow Him to fight on our behalf.
Fight back with a scripture verse.
Run to your mother.
What Gospel are we listening to? Many others try to "evangelize us" to their gospel. Belief in the Gospel of Jesus Christ is predicated on our Repentance!
In the frist homily of his Lenten preaching series Fr. Steve helps us to understand the importance of Examining our Conscience.
Pray for your future spouse. God has a plan for you and your future marriage. Pray for their purity their holiness their family and their future.
Fr. Steve spoke at the weekly Wild Goose series this past week on the sacraments. The sacraments are always rooted in our relationship with the Father, they give us power; and they are food for the journey--just like the Lembas Bread was food for the Hobbits in Lord of the Rings.
Dcn. Michael Churchill preached this past Sunday helping us come to understand Jesus' words to love our enemy and not be judgemental.
What has God done for you? We have to preach the gospel to our own hearts souls and flesh. God has created us, sent his only begotten son, redeemed us, saved us from the clutches of the evil enemy, and prepared a place for us in his kingdom. There is more than this ... and that is life in Christ!
Dobbs vs Jackson is a great opportunity for us as the lay faithful to end in eradicate abortion in our land for the first time in nearly 50 years since roe vs wade. Get ready for the battle. You are either on God‘s side… Or not God‘s side. There is no middle ground when it comes to the issue of life.
Saints Peter and Paul in North Branch, Michigan hosted an event called Rest and Relaxation--an evening of adoration, praise and worship, and a talk. Fr. Steve uses the back drop of the Exodus and Pentecost to help give encouragment in these difficult times.
Four main things happen at our Baptism:
1) We are brought into relationship with the Father
2) we receive forgiveness of original sin and ability to have forgiveness of our sin
3) We are incorporated into the Mystical Body, the Church
4) We receive Grace--POWER from on HIGH in the Holy Spirit.
What does this year year of 2022, our worries about the future the three Magi, their gifts and the Feast of Holy Mary Mother of God all have to do with each other?
All of our worries about tomorrow can and should be given to our Blessed Mother, where she in turn will lead us to her Son.
Fr. Steve completes his preaching seres on the family on the Feast of the Holy Family. Today his message is directed to the men. Ephesians 5:21-32 has a lot to say about marriage and family, but it is easily understood. St. Joseph is a perfect model for men and fathers today!
Ever feel like you're living life from one thing to the next? Kind of like walking in a joke right at the punch line--or arriving at a movie 45 mins late? Life does have meaning and purpose, and it is only found in Jesus Christ!
A family that prays together, stays together!--why? Why is this true?
An Icon, stories, and practicals.
Our Lady of Guadalupe, the voice and the serpent. What does the appearance of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Juan Diego in 1531 have to say to women today? If the devil hates the Virgin Mary he hates women and mothers just the same. Women of God, model the Virgin Mary!
Call Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have records today!
The power of our God
The power of our Heavenly Mother
The power of our trust
Dcn. Allan preached this weekend on a "Family at Crisis", sharing with the congregation that all times in our lives we must be prepared for Crisis--it will come.
Fr. Steve celebrated his first Solemn High Latin Mass on Dec. 3rd at Old St. Mary's in Greektown, Detroit, Michigan.
St. Francis Xavier had tremendous zeal. Where did his zeal come from? How can we become zealous for souls like he was.
Fr. Steve begins his preaching series on The Family. This week he explores the understanding of a family prepared and the importance of praying new hearts into our Children. He used the following Scripture verse as a backdrop to how to prepare your family for the world:
Ephesians 3:14-19—Pray for your family like St. Paul
For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that he may grant you, in accord with the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner self, 17 and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, be rooted and grounded in love, 18 and may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
A tattoo
Hearing aids
Alone
The Shema: HEAR O Israel! The Lord is your God, the Lord alone!
Fr. Steve explores the great story of Bartimaeus, the blind beggar. He is alone, abandoned, and has no name. Yet Jesus picks him out of the crowd and wants to know him personally.
James and John ask a bold question to Jesus today: "we want you to do for what whatever we ask you!" Where were they rooted?
The man asks Jesus what he must do to inherit Heaven. This past week we celebrated the feast of our Lady of the rosary on October 7th. This feast was originally titled Our Lady Of Victory. we must recognize the war in our daily life for our souls and our hearts continues to rage on. How is it that we inherit eternal life? Our Blessed mother sets the great example for us. to pray the rosary is the simplest means of Holiness.
The readings today speak of marriage, but yet they also speak of Divorce and Re-Marriage. How can we reconcile Jesus' words that if one is divorced and remarried they are committing adultery?
Divorce and annulments are often confusing for us as Catholics. Are we kicked out of the Church? Can we receive communion?
Humility is what this culture and society is lacking right now. How do we grow in humility? How do we grow in our child like dependance on the Father? It is by practice and the work of the Liturgy that teaches us how to be humble of heart.
Lord. Liar. Lunatic. “Who do you say that I am?” The world has a lot to say about Jesus but He doesn’t care what they think or say about Him. He does care what you have to say though?
We are living in a season of unprecedented fear. God‘s words through the prophet Isaiah in our first reading could easily have been the very first words that the deaf man hears as soon as Jesus heals him from his lack of hearing. Be strong! Do not fear! Here is your God!
Why are you even Catholic? There are many differing opinions on what the Eucharist is. But does the holy Catholic Church have the correct opinion? Or are we just one among many?
at the end you and I both have a decision to make
| Jesus is continuing to silence all of the murmurers out there. Let’s look at a few different Eucharistic miracles to see |
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Though we complain, the Lord will always receive us and feed us with His Grace. Yet if we severe ourselves from Him...the root we will wither and die.
| Life sometimes seems meaningless. We find ourselves saying: "all I do is work and take care of my family". Jesus wants to transform your ordinariness into extraordinariness. |
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—what will the first words out of God’s mouth be to you when you stand before Him? Certainly one of them will be “who did you bring with you“. We are all meant to go out and bring others home, back to Jesus Christ—and we don’t have to over complicated it either.
Are our eyes fixed on the Lord, pleading for His Mercy? That is a question we should ask ourselves. What is Mercy? Isn't God all-merciful? Won't I just go to Heaven now if I died?
Death is never easy. Why does God take our loved ones? The First reading helps us come to understand that God hates death and that our homeland is with Him in the Kingdom.
We walk by faith not by sight! God wants our mustard seeds of faith—the small things, not just big moments.
Jesus comes to us to feed us. Today is the celebration of the Most Holy Eucharist, the Body of Christ—Corpus Christi. What does a little Chinese girl and the prisoners at Dachau have to tell us how to live our faith today? Open
What was Jesus’ homecoming like? What can we like it to in an Earthly analogy? Is the Ascension even important to us today?
A Typewriter. A rotary phone. Elvis Presley. Things are fleeting and passing in this world. Time passes by, but only one thing is Eternal…Jesus Christ! Today our children make their First Holy Communion, and in the Gospel Jesus tells us that outside of Him we have no life. As the things of this world pass us by, life in Jesus is life!
The Church has to get small in order for it to grow. NO Christian is meant to be isolated, alone or on an Island. The "Two Disciples" in the Gospel are leaving the community, but find hope in Jesus and in others. We need to form small-group-family-communities in order to build upon the faith.
Jesus is our only Hope! He wants our small offerings (the spice), He wants to remove all that keeps us from Him (our boulders), and He wants to give us new life (the Resurrection).
Jesus cry out His 6th word from the Cross: "It is Finished!" What is the "it"? When did "it" begin? Fr. Steve explores some the Jewish history of the Passover and why Jesus would cry out these words.
This week we meditate on Jesus' words: "My God, My God why have you forsaken me?" What does this mean? Is Jesus crying out in despair? Has the Father abandoned Him?
Fr. Steve preaches Jesus' third word from the Cross: "Woman behold you son. Son behold your Mother." A gift, a grammar lesson and a promise. She is our Mother...run to her!
Fr. Steve continues his preaching series on the 7 last words of Jesus from the Cross. Today he preaches on the words from the Good Thief and Jesus's words: "This Day you will be with Me in Paradise".
Fr. Steve begins his series on the seven last words of Jesus from the Cross: "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do!" This is why Jesus came, to beg mercy for us before the Father and to offer His Mercy. Look to the Crucifix for our means of how to repent and ask for mercy.
Repent. Renew. Resurrection. Ordinary Time is the preseason in preparation for the regular season of Lent. And if Lent is the regular season than Easter is the Playoffs and Heaven is our Championship! The better we "Lent" the better our Easter Celebration will be!
The word for us this Lenten Season is Transformation. Let's seek to be Transformed like the leper
We have one enemy the devil. In the Gospel Jesus frees a man who is possessed by the evil spirit. He does so in His authority. In the Name of Jesus we have that very same authority!
Repent and Believe in the Gospel. Words we hear today and word's we'll hear on Ash Wednesday. So what are the reasons why we don't repent of our sinfulness?
Why does this feast day fall during the Christmas season? Why happens at our Baptism? And why is this important?
Fr. Steve felt compelled to go off script and wing this other homily for the Epiphany. The wisemen persevered in faith and let NOTHING get in the way of their pursuit of the new born Christ Child; why have we abandoned Him so quickly these days?
Jesus doesn't just want our gold, frankincense and myrrh. He wants what they symbolize.
Why is the Holy Family a model for us to live our lives by? A family at work. A family at prayer. A family at service. A family who suffers together.
The Gospel story of Jesus' Incarnation is no fairy tale; it was and is a rescue mission, just like D-Day was for the people of France. We have been rescued from something--from the oppressor!
Advent isn’t always an easy season for us to enter into. At the beginning of the Advent Season God is giving us the 3 P’s: pause, ponder and prepare.
Fr. Steve leads us in an examination of what it means to
be Thankful and how to give thanks.
Jesus is King of the universe. Is He your King? And if He is King,
what does that mean for us? Are we His Royal Family?
The only tragedy in life is to not be a saint. We’re all called to be saints. The saints of yesteryear weren’t given any special graces that you and I aren’t given. The same graces, the same Eucharist the same Church that they lived in and prayed in formed them in Sainthood. What’s our excuse?
What our word needs more than anything right now is love. Ultimately the understanding of WHAT Jesus has done for us and how He came to save us.
Link for picture Fr. Steve uses today:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinity_(Andrei_Rublev)
Am I a fan or am I a follower of Jesus? Will I just choose to be a fan of the King of Kings or will I answer the knock on my heart and choose to let Jesus in and be a follower of His?
God has had an extraordinary plan from the very beginning. God loves us and will never abandon us and the greatest gift He has given to us is the Mother of His Son.
Discipleship begins with repentance and repentance begins with humility. Let's humble ourselves before the Lord this Advent Season in repentance from our sinful lives and live for Christ alone!
Be alert for what? Keep what for what? Keep vigil for what? Your death. If you stood before God just after you died and He asked you the simple question: "why should I let you into Heaven?" What would you say in reply?
Is Jesus your King? What Jesus wants is our surrender; we thing of surrender as giving up like being handcuffed. But when we surrender more to Jesus, the more we will live!
If we are not grateful we have nothing. This upcoming Thursday is Thanksgiving and our newly Beatified, Blessed Fr. Solanus Casey teaches us to Thank God ahead of time. Thanksgiving must be rooted in God--but how can we practically offer Thanks to God?
He who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted. The place that one is humbled the greatest is our deathbed. Fr. Steve shares wise words from one on his death bed to help us humble ourselves now to be exalted on the last day.
When we deny God's free gift of Love we cannot give love outward. But when we come to know Jesus' love and Mercy we can fulfill His great commandment of Loving God and loving neighbor.
Today Fr. Steve tackles the questions of: "why is it better to pray before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament?" and "why do we sing some songs in Latin and not English?"
Deacon Brian Mulligan, our transitional Deacon from Winona, MN preaches for the first time to our community about how God has created us.
Auxiliary Bishop Gerry Battersby was at Divine Grace this past weekend to instal Fr. Steve as our Pastor. He preached to us on the two seminal events into our lives: The Incarnation and our Baptism and how repentance must be our means to following Jesus.
In our Gospel today Jesus sounds rather harsh as he dismisses the man who was not dressed accordingly. Was it just because he wasn't wearing a tie? The wedding garment symbolizes being prepared when the master summons us. How do we prepare for that call though?
We can easily become discouraged while we're doing the work of the Lord. Who is there to lead us, guide us, and protect us? Our Blessed Mother. With this being the Feast of the Holy Rosary and with the Anniversary of Fatima looming--Our Lady crushes discouragement by the power of the Rosary!
Next week is our commitment weekend to the capital campaign to serve the needs of both St. Patrick site and St. Joseph site.
Fr. Steve tackles the question today: “where is it found in the Bible that it is a mortal sin to miss Mass on Sunday?”
Forgiveness—why must we forgive? Because we have been forgiven much! We have been forgiven such a tremendous amount—can we not forgive those who have harmed us? There is no unforgiven in Heaven; we must forgive now in order to inherit Eternal Life.
A great challenge by God today in the readings. The Lord challenges us to call people on to Holiness; to share with them the goodness of Jesus! We are not sharing flood insurance with hurricane victims, we are sharing the goodness of Eternity!
Jesus tells us that the way back to the Heavenly Father is the Cross. Let's beg forgiveness for those times we refused to accept the cross.
A few weeks back we had our missionary, a Bishop from Ghana, come to speak with us about his diocese.
Today Fr. Steve tackles the two questions of: "is there alien life form on other planets?" and one concerning the racism.
The Canaanite woman sets a perfect example for us to grow in faith--that should be our prayer: "Lord help me grow in faith!"
Two words in two different translations of sacred Scripture help us know the heart of our Blessed Mother today--AND and BUT. Despite it all, Our Lady was at the Cross of Jesus...despite it all she remains there to help us carry our Cross.
God wasn't in the thunder, the earthquake, or the fire. Where was He? He was in quiet whisper. God wants us to meet Him in the silence where He awaits us.
A good litmus test for everyone of us to see where we are in our faith walk is: do my friends/neighbors/co-workers know that I am a Catholic-Christian! Weeds among the wheat. If we are the wheat we must be aware of the weeds among us. The great temptation for Christians is to blend in with the crowd--to become a weed. We must fight against that and pray for greater friends in the Lord.
"If you put son or daughter, mother or father, before Me you are not worthy of Me!" These are strong words from Our Lord. Father Steve ties in an incident that happened to him this week and shows that our culture must put Jesus at the forefront once again to be considered a great Christian Nation.
What are you afraid of? We have to name our fear. If we don't than we can name defeat our fear, it will always have us. But if we do name it and give it to the power of the Cross than we can have power over our fear.
Jesus is present Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity in the Blessed Sacrament--the Holy Eucharist. Jesus has reminded us of His undying presence in the Holy Eucharist many times throughout the centuries by giving us Eucharistic Miracles. Today we will look at three and beg the Lord for an increase of faith and piety in the Most Blessed Sacrament.
The Holy Spirit is not boring! We don't know the power of the Spirit that lives within us!
As we send off our 8th grade students to High School there are two very important things they must know: 1) gifts and 2) ownership. They must recognize the gift that they are to Jesus from the Father, the gifts they've been given, and the gift that Jesus has given to them. Then they (and each of us) must take ownership of our faith and live it!
Happy Mother's Day! Happy Feast of Our Lady of Fatima! As these two days coincide with one another God wants us to unpack what a mother's heart looks like and what our Heavenly Mother's heart looks like as well and what she is saying to us in particular at her apparition at Fatima.
If only it were that simple that we could just hear the Good Shepherd's voice and follow Him. The only problem is, is that there is another voice vying for our attention--that of the evil shepherd ("My sheep do not follow the voice of strangers"). The voice of the evil shepherd in today's world causes us to doubt and grow lazy in our faith. Let's be vigilante in our faith!
Bishop Hanchon challenges the youth to live for Jesus and that confirmation isn't a graduation at all but more of an enlistment into the army of Christ.
Were your hearts burning within you? Jesus wants us to converse about Him, to have face time and to break open the word so that our hearts will burn within us and we too may have an encounter with the Living God.
What does the Paschal Candle symbolize? What does it say about us as parish where we are at today; and what does the Resurrection of Jesus mean for us?
The Cross of Christ does three things for us: 1) that death is a condition of life; 2) the Cross heals; 3) the Cross teaches us how to Trust in God.