More fitting readings!: Daily Mass Homily--Tuesday, June 9th, 2015 (Catholic School Teachers' Retreat)

(Listen to this homily here).

            I am always amazed how God speaks to us through daily Mass readings.  Once more we have some great ones as we close out our retreat.

            We are reminded of how important our speech is in our work.  As my best friend frequently states, “Words mean things.”  St. Paul writes, “As God is faithful, our word to you is not ‘yes’ and ‘no.’  For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed to you by us, Silvanus and Timothy and me, was not ‘yes’ and ‘no,’ but ‘yes’ has been in him.” 

            Our words have the power to build up or break down our schools.  Do you find yourself complaining?  Gossiping?  Backbiting?  Last Lent as a parish and school we made a commitment to try to give up gossip and wore bracelets as a reminder.  Find ways to eliminate poor speech.  Use the yes of God to build up your students, parents and schools.

            And how fitting of a Gospel!  As you go back home remember, “You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world.  A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden.

Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house.  Just so, your light must shine before others…”

            Remember your role as a baptized Christian.  At your baptism you received a lighted candle and you are to carry that light into the world.  You have a marvelous opportunity to let your light shine on the mountain—in your classroom—in your school.  Be a missionary disciple!  Be a Spirit filled evangelist! 

            Know of my prayers.  I pray that you will leave with God’s Spirit.  I pray that your heart will be filled with joy as you proclaim the Gospel—the Good News—in your life and back at school.