27th Sunday in Ordinary Time 2024
We’ve all seen how difficult relationships can be, haven’t we?
Whether it’s in our own families or with close friends, we’ve experienced the pain and heartache that come when a marriage falls apart.
I’ve seen it in my own family too—my two brothers have gone through divorces, and it wasn’t easy for anyone involved.
It’s tough on the husband, the wife, the kids, and even friends who don’t know what to say or do. And I know many of you have similar stories.
Today’s readings bring up the topic of marriage, and maybe when you hear them, they touch a sensitive spot. It’s not an easy subject to talk about, but it’s important because, whether we like it or not, divorce is part of our reality.
It affects so many of us, and sometimes we’re left wondering what the Church really thinks about it.
When Jesus talks about marriage today, He’s reminding us of God’s dream for us—a dream where two people come together and become “one flesh,” sharing their lives completely, supporting each other through thick and thin.
It’s a beautiful vision, but we all know it doesn’t always turn out that way. Life happens. People get hurt. Trust is broken. And sometimes, despite our best efforts, things fall apart.
Here’s what I want you to know: if you’ve been through a divorce, or if someone you love has, the Church hasn’t shut the door on you. You are still part of this family.
You can still come to Mass, receive the Eucharist, and be involved in the life of the Church. Divorce isn’t a sin—it’s something that happens when life gets complicated and people get hurt.
Sometimes, it’s the best choice in a bad situation, especially when there’s harm being done.
I know there’s a lot of confusion about what the Church teaches on this. People often think if they’re divorced, they’re somehow excommunicated.
That’s not true. You belong here. And you are loved here.
The only time there’s an issue is when someone remarries without an annulment, and that’s because the Church believes marriage is meant to be forever.
An annulment isn’t about saying the marriage didn’t count or that you did something wrong.
It’s more like saying, “This relationship, for whatever reason, didn’t have everything it needed from the start to become what God intended.”
It’s a healing process, not a blaming one.
And for those who are still married, but struggling, don’t give up hope. Marriage is hard work, and we all need support. If you’re finding it tough, reach out—whether it’s to a counselor, a trusted friend, or just in prayer.
God wants to help you through it, and so does your church community.
But today isn’t just about those who are married or divorced. It’s about all of us and how we can be there for each other. We’re a family here, and families stick together.
If you know someone who’s going through a tough time in their marriage or after a divorce, be there for them. Sometimes all it takes is listening, or just letting them know you care.
Jesus also talks about children in today’s Gospel. He says we need to welcome the Kingdom of God like a child—full of trust, openness, and love.
And that’s true whether we’re married, single, or divorced. God’s love for us doesn’t change, no matter what. Maybe you feel like you’ve failed or let people down.
But God doesn’t see you as a failure. He sees your pain, your struggle, and He wants to bring healing. There’s no mistake too big for God’s mercy.
So, wherever you find yourself today, whether your marriage is strong, struggling, or ended, know that God is with you. He loves you right where you are.
And He’s calling us as a community to love each other, to support each other, and to be the kind of family where no one feels judged or alone.
Divorce might be a chapter in someone’s story, but it’s not the whole story. With God, there are always new beginnings, even if it doesn’t seem like it right now.
As we reflect today on the importance of love, marriage, and family, it’s also fitting that today is Respect Life Sunday. Respecting life means cherishing and protecting the gift of life at every stage, from conception to natural death, and in every circumstance.
It’s not just about defending life at its beginnings or ends; it’s about respecting the dignity of every person along the way, including those going through difficult and painful moments like divorce.
Respect for life calls us to see the value in each person, no matter their situation. Whether someone is struggling in their marriage, has experienced the pain of divorce, or is trying to rebuild their life, they are precious in the eyes of God.
It reminds us to honor and support life in all its forms, especially in our families and communities, where the wounds are often hidden but real.
As a Church, let’s continue to be a place where we respect, honor, and protect life in all its forms—by showing love, mercy, and support to those who need it most.
Whether it’s walking with those in challenging marriages, offering hope to those in crisis, or simply being present to one another, this is how we live out our call to respect and promote life.
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