Next month, like most parishes, we will begin the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) gatherings for those interested who desire to be received into the Catholic faith, and those who are exploring the opportunity, seeking further understanding toward a willingness to join in the Sacramental life of our Church. If you or someone you know is seeking information or open to be received into the Catholic faith please call the office. Our classes/gatherings begin in September with the eventual high point at the Easter Vigil, March 27th of next year. Following is a thoughtful reflection shared by Kellen, an attorney who at 40 went through OCIA: Growing up, my religious background was shaped by sporadic church attendance and a general belief in God, but I never experienced a deep-rooted faith or completed any formal religious education. While my family valued kindness and honesty, our spiritual life rarely reached beyond special occasions or holidays. Before OCIA, I struggled with doubts about my place in a church community, often feeling like an outsider. During OCIA, learning unfamiliar prayers, traditions, and key teachings sometimes felt overwhelming.
St. Augustine’s story especially resonated with me as someone who came to the Church later in life. His famous words, “You have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you,” felt profoundly true as I reflected on my own journey. Like Augustine, I searched for meaning and fulfillment in many places, only to discover a persistent restlessness that nothing seemed to soothe. Since my conversion, I have found a deep peace and contentment in God through the Church and through daily practicing my faith. Augustine’s
teachings remind me it’s never too late to encounter Christ.
Through OCIA, I discovered how much Jesus loves each of us, no matter our past or insecurities. OCIA opened my heart to Jesus’ sacrifice, forgiveness, and constant presence. . I was especially moved by learning about the Sacraments and how they connect us directly to Christ’s grace. The kindness of others in OCIA and witnessing faith in action helped me recognize that the Church is not just a building, but a family walking together towards God. At the Easter Vigil, the priest lit the Paschal Candle and filled the church with candlelight. That same flame now continues to burn within me, a living reminder of the light of Christ guiding my life forward. Now, after baptism and OCIA, I want to continue learning through Bible study, serve others in my parish, and support those who may feel uncertain about their own journey. I am grateful for the grace, community, and guidance that OCIA has brought into my life.
Our gospel passage illuminates faith through the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Not a
demonstration of power or to dazzle; Jesus’ miracles always point to God and His saving grace. Matthew’s account of the ‘feeding of the 5,000’ begins with Jesus’ reaction to the news of John the Baptist’s death. Grief. Anger. Loss. He quickly turns away from his own emotions, recognizing instead the needs of the vast crowd of men, women and children before him.
“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the
people. They all ate and were satisfied.” Typical of all Jewish meals at the time, Jesus
offered up a blessing, thanksgiving, and then ‘breaking and sharing. Matthew repeats this
ritual in his account of the Last Supper, as Jesus paused to offer up a ‘blessing’ upon the bread and wine. Aside from the Resurrection, the miracle performed for the 5,000 is the only miracle recorded in all four gospels. Bless me, Heavenly Father, forgive my erring ways; put purpose in my days.
Bless me, Heavenly Father, with understanding enough to make me kind. 
Bless me Heavenly Father, so I may judge all people with my heart, not my mind. 
Bless me Heavenly Father, to be patient in everything I do. 
Bless me Heavenly Father, Content to trust Your wisdom and to follow after You. 
Bless me Heavenly Father, when I falter and hear me when I pray,
Bless me Heavenly Father to dwell with You someday. Amen.
God Bless, Fr. Tim
FYI: When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place. (C.S. Lewis)