Introducing his 2026 Pastoral Letter (In Charity & Truth: Toward a Renewed Political Culture), Archbishop William Lori reminds us: “The human person finds his or her full meaning and dignity only in Jesus Christ.”  According to that document, our reflections on culture, politics, unity, and responsibility must begin—and end—with Christ. Today’s Gospel of the Transfiguration shows the urgency of that call. Peter, James, and John are taken up the mountain. There, they witness a

“If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down.” Do these words sound familiar? The first part is conditional: “If…”  The second part pushes toward action: “…then throw yourself down.”  That is often how temptation begins. The devil rarely starts with something obviously evil. He begins with a suggestion, a soft landing, a “reasonable” offer. The battle begins in the mind. Our senses begin to imagine. Our feelings begin to build. Then the demand escalates. It may come as lus

The words, “Return to me with your whole heart,” spoken by the prophet Joel, reveal the depth of God’s love. God is not indifferent. He is not distant. He is constantly searching for His children. He longs that we experience the warmth of His relationship. The prophet reminds us: “For gracious and merciful is he, slow to anger, rich in kindness, and relenting in punishment.” Ash Wednesday is not about a ritual alone—it is about a relationship. It is about a Father calling His