Dear St. Gabriel Parishioners:
Summer indeed is here now; not only as days in the sequence of calendar but in reality, and somewhat beautiful weather. I hope you do enjoy this special time refreshing and engaging in joyful activities.
I want to take this opportunity to say a big word of THANKS, to all parishioners, also, for some individuals and groups in our parish community who came to the vigil and Funeral Mass for my Dad, Mr. Joseph Ly Hoang, last week. Your presence and prayers are certainly a big part for my Mom and our family effectively dealing with our loss and grief. May the Lord truly bless you abundantly as you show generous gifts of prayer and condolences for my family. If you want to know a little bit more about my Dad and our family story, an Obituary is included in the parish website.
We enter the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, today's first reading from Genesis 18:1-10 presents Abraham as the model of the generous and hospitable host. In the charming biblical story, Abraham and Sarah welcomed the messengers of God with opened arms at the oaks of Mamre. The strangers at Mamre (who we know are God and angels) come to dinner to deliver a message: God promises Abraham and Sarah that the barren will rejoice.
Mary of Bethany, disciple of the Lord, has chosen the most important thing required in welcoming others -- her presence and full attention -- so that it is her guest who shines. Martha and Mary stand forever as symbols of the two modes of life between which we continually oscillate. Activity can become a shield against facing issues and questions and truths which must be allowed to surface if we are to survive. There are times when we simply must contemplate, must step back, must think, if we are to be capable of returning to meaningful activity.
The key of the Gospel story is not found in the tension of activity versus passivity, but in receptivity. The one necessity in welcoming others into one's home or community is being present to them -- listening to what they have to say -- as Mary does in today's Gospel.
Here are some meaningful questions to reflect upon this week:
- How do I (we) practice hospitality? -
- What are the signs of a hospitable community?
- What are the enemies of hospitality?
- How can we become more hospitable?
- Do I (we) really love other human beings?
It’s not too late to participate in the Annual Catholic Appeal this year 2022. If you did not have a chance to participate, you will receive a follow up mailing from the parish for this purpose; please see the reporting in the bulletin.
“Thank You” for many families who continue to support our parish in the Annual Catholic Appeal this year; please join with your fellow parishioners to support the ACA by returning your completed envelop. Any amount, small or large, will help our parish goal and most especially, to help upgrade our parish audio and technology upgrade this year.
While enjoying the “Summer rest”, please don’t forget our parishes – St. Gabriel and Prince of Peace.
Christ’s Peace,
Fr. Phuong Hoang