Father Chris Looby

  Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Birth of John the Baptist. In today’s Gospel, Elizabeth gives birth to John, a miracle that amazes everyone. They name him John, meaning “God is gracious,” and people wonder about his future, recognizing God’s hand upon him. Today’s feast, believe it or not, is placed close to the summer solstice. This timing is symbolic: as days shorten after the solstice, John’s role decreases, preparing for Christ, whose light grows after the winter solstice when we celebrate the birth of Christ. In John’s Gospel 3:30, John the Baptist said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”  This aligns with the natural order: days shorten after John’s birth and lengthen after Jesus’. John prepares the way and steps back as Christ’s light increases. Like John, we are called to prepare the way for Christ. We must live with humility, recognizing our role, and courageously proclaim the truth. As we honor John the Baptist today, may we prepare our hearts for Christ, live hu

  Today, as we celebrate the feast of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, we reflect on the words of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." St. Aloysius, a young man of noble birth, had every opportunity to accumulate earthly treasures. Yet, he chose a different path, dedicating his life to serving the poor and sick, especially during the plague in Rome. His actions remind us that true treasure lies not in material wealth but in living out the Gospel through acts of love and compassion. Jesus calls us to examine our hearts and priorities. Are we seeking the temporary and fleeting, or are we investing in the eternal by loving God and serving others? St. Aloysius exemplified this heavenly focus, embracing humility, charity, and sacrifice. May we follow his example, keeping our eyes fixed on the treasures of heaven, where our hearts