What can I do this Christmas?

Living The Gospel. What can I do this Christmas?

This question seems strange. Isn't it ? But Christ is about giving thanks to God the Father for the gift of his Son for our salvation.

We can never repay God for all that He has done for us. Pope Francis reminds us that gratitude is “the interior attitude that we should deem most important.” That is, we will want to live lives that are pleasing to Him, because what pleases Him is what makes us happy, and that means living a life of giving, not getting. May the spirit of Christmas, the season of giving, renew in us the desire to give gratefully always and in all ways, that God may be glorified and we may share His life forever in heaven. He is knocking, he wants to dwell in you. Please open your heart!

“It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you” (Mother Theresa of calcutta)

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo SAC

The Hail Mary Prayer

Living The Gospel this week: The Hail Mary Prayer (Luke 1:28, 42)

On this third Sunday of advent, I suggest a little reflection on the “Hail Mary Prayer”. This little and simple prayer used by us Catholics is very powerful. It draws us closer to Jesus as we acknowledge the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the history of salvation. This prayer is rooted in the bible and is divided in two parts. The first part comes from the words of the Angel Gabriel (Luke 1:28) and Mary’s Cousin Elizabeth (Luke 1:42). The second part is a request, asking Mary to pray for us, especially at the moment of our death.

Mary is always ready to help us as she did at Cana (John 2:5) by praying for us, just like a good mother would. By saying the Hail Mary, you are not worshiping Mary, but you only ask for her prayers and her assistance. Mary is a humble servant of God, who tells us: “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5).

Let us always remember that: “the Hail Mary is the most beautiful prayer after Our Father and the most beautiful compliment to Mary”, St. Louis Grignion de Montfort. He “also believed that devotion to Mary is the most perfect devotion because Mary is the most conformed to Jesus Christ”.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Rejoicing in God’s Presence

Living the Gospel this week: Rejoicing in God’s Presence

“The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior” (Zephaniah 3:17)

We often overlook the power of the presence of God in our midst in our daily lives, especially in times of difficulties. On this third Sunday of Advent, Prophet Zephaniah reminds of the power of the presence of God amidst his people. He invites us to celebrate God’s presence.

1) God’s presence removes any fear because it is a loving presence. “There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18) – Meditate on what Jesus has done for you by removing any form of condemnation and judgment upon you!

2) When we feel anxious or worried, let’s find comfort in knowing that God is with us as a Mighty Savior. He loves us and will take care of us. He can do all things (Philippians 4:13)

May you find peace and safety and peace in God’s presence by visiting Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament for this week for few minutes of adoration as Psalm 16:11 reminds us that “In God’s presence there is fullness of joy; at his right hand eternal pleasure”

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

The candle of peace

Living the Gospel this week: the candle of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

The candle of peace, represents the presence of the Prince of Peace. It is the second candle lit in the Advent wreath. It is Jesus Christ that brings peace in the world.

Peace is a gift from God and it is a sign of God’s presence filling our lives.

1) Are you at peace? Come, Holy Spirit of peace!

2) Why are you not at peace? Maybe because of my crooked ways.

Come Holy Spirit help me to make my ways straight. We cannot encounter Christ in crooked ways.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, prince of Peace”

(Isaiah 9:6)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

The candle of Hope

Living the Gospel this week: The candle of Hope.

“But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.” (Micah 7:7)

The first advent candle is “Hope”. Hope is a confident expectation based on God's promises. It is a firm assurance in things unseen, anchored in the truth of God's character, even amidst difficult circumstances.

1) Light a candle of Hope this week regardless of what you face in life. Be assured that God will fulfill his word in your life.

2) The word of God is a solid foundation for perseverance and joy, regardless of your condition.

3) Prayer: Talk to God openly about your concerns and struggles, expressing your trust in His plan (10 minutes daily)

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo sac

How to go to heaven?

Living the Gospel this week. How to go to heaven?

In John 3:16, we read: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life".

The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that salvation is a gift from God, and the normative way we receive that gift is through the seven sacraments, beginning with baptism (Catechism 1113ff.)

The Catechism of the Catholic Church understands the sacraments as sensible signs that Jesus Christ instituted to confer grace, i.e., divine life (CCC 1131; 1114-16).

Christ himself, the God’s man, his paschal sacrifice, his passion, death, resurrection, and ascension (CCC 613, 1085) is the foundation and the effectiveness of the sacraments.

1) Let’s work out everyday our relationship with Christ by partaking in the holy hour (will explain this next time), or Bible study, a life of faith and obedience to God’s commandment, daily desire of repentance.

2) Prepare your heart to receive Jesus in the sacraments, especially in the eucharist (confessions, coming to mass early, disposing your heart to be loved by Christ…). By doing this, we express our faith for St. John Chrysostom (349-407) pointed out that, “He that believes in the Son has everlasting life.”

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo sac

Hope in tribulation

Living The Gospel this week: Hope in tribulation

Today’s Gospel focuses on Jesus’ teachings about His return in glory. Jesus describes a world in turmoil, with nations breaking down, natural disasters, family divisions, darkening of the sun, and the moon, the breaking down of the sky and persecution. Many events and situations cause fear in our lives. We should not be frightened as christians. Jesus’s victory on the cross is our assurance.

1. Let’s watch and wait with confidence, knowing we will rejoice with Christ forever.

2. Think of God as “our refuge and strength, our help in times of trouble” (Psalm 46:1-3)

3. When troubles come our way let’s not fear, for the Lord is always with us as he promised. “Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10)

“Endure with Christ, suffer for him, if you wish to reign with him.” Thomas a Kempis (1380-1471 A.D.)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

“Praise the Lord, My Soul”

Living the Gospel this week: Psalm 146:7: “Praise the Lord, My Soul”

The LORD keeps faith forever,

secures justice for the oppressed,

gives food to the hungry.

The LORD sets captives free.

Take this week to thank and praise God in good times and in bad times of your daily life!

Read Psalms 100; 111; 95:1-7; 92; 89; 30.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

All souls and pious list for the dead

Living the Gospel this Week. All souls and pious list for the dead

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

In the Catholic Church, the month of November is consecrated to the prayer for the dead. The Book of Maccabees, specifically 2 Maccabees 12:39-46, describes Judas Maccabeus and his men praying for the dead and offering a sacrifice to atone for their sins. Today we offer the Holy Mass, the sacrifice of Christ Jesus for the expiation of the sins of the world (Cf. Hebrews 9:12). During the month of November the Church invites us to various practices in honor of our deceased loved ones such as: decorating the tombstones, lighting candles, praying the rosary and especially offering masses for the repose of their souls. As you are well aware in our Diocese in general and in most of our Parishes, we do not always have enough space for everyone to offer as many masses as they should, especially during the month of November. In line with our Diocese, we offer an option for people to offer masses which will be celebrated by missionary priests in difficult areas.

The Diocese of Lansing indeed encourages its parishioners to submit Mass intentions specifically for missions, highlighting the importance of praying for missionary work and supporting the spread of the Gospel in other areas through their "Mission Co-op Appeal Programs". Through these programs, the Diocese would like parishioners to raise both prayer and financial support for mission churches and seminarians in developing countries. The Diocese essentially, would ask people to include mission work in their prayer intentions, these could include requesting Masses to be said for them or by them. Our Parish offers you that opportunity which enables you to request Masses for your loved ones. All Masses will be said by missionary priests working in very difficult areas and the report will be given back to you after the celebration of those Masses.

In her Diary St. Faustina says: “I saw my Guardian Angel, who ordered me to follow him. In a moment I was in a misty place full of fire in which there was a great crowd of suffering souls. They were praying fervently, but to no avail, for themselves; only we can come to their aid.” Please, they need our prayers. They need our help.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let the perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Note on Elections and voting!

Living the Gospel this week: Note on Elections and voting!

“What do you want me to do for you?”, Jesus asked. “That I may see”, replied Bartimaeus.

Jesus knows that like Bartimaeus, we can suffer from spiritual blindness. This time of election is an opportune time to call out to Jesus and let Him guide us. By doing so, we can see clearly and follow His path.

As these elections approach Let pray that no matter the difference of our opinions, we may remain united as Parish and as family. (Our love in Christ is stronger than our political enmity. No one is supposed to judge others because of their choice).

Let us pray that as Christians, we may vote with our well formed conscience and fulfill our responsibility of bringing the goodness, the truth, the mercy and love of God.

As Christians, we also have the responsibility to bring God’s kingdom and to promote our Common Good through voting. Father, “Thy kingdom come” (Mt. 6:10)

Meditate on these words to the Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others" (Philippians 2:3-4)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO sac

Suffering Servant

Living The Gospel this Week. Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53:10-11)

Isaiah in this passage describes a servant who takes on pain and sorrow to bring healing and forgiveness. This is indeed what Jesus willingly did in order to save us from our sins.

As we give thanks to God today during our Harvest weekend, the sacrifice reminds us of his love for us and calls us to love others in the same way. Our little sacrifices: financial support to the church, forgiving and bearing one another’s burdens and share in their suffering are not made in vain. God will reward each of us accordingly!

Follow Jesus’s example and embrace and embrace any opportunity of giving as a sign of love and service.

• Reflect on the love of Christ by being kind and generous to those around you.

Meditate on Mother Teresa words: “The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace!”

May God grant us the grace to fulfill our mission of building up the kingdom of God here on earth!

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo sac

God bless you

“Indeed the word of God is living and effective”

Living the gospel this week: “Indeed the word of God is living and effective”

The second reading for the 28th Sunday the letter to the Hebrews tells us that God’s word is alive and powerful. This reminds us of the power of God’s word in our lives.

1. God’s word is not just written text: - It is active and speaks to us personally. - It reveals our innermost thoughts and guides us in the right path. In your schedule, make the word of God a priority. Read and reflect on the Scriptures, allowing them to shape your hearts and minds.

2. God’s word is a guide for our lives. It helps us discern right from wrong and keeps us on the path of righteousness. Let us commit to regular reading of the Bible, so we can grow in our understanding and love for God’s word.

"For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls." (Psalm: 119: 105)

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Becoming a little child in hand of God

Living the Gospel this week. Becoming a little child in hand of God

This lesson we would like to focus on this 27th Sunday is trusting faith. Jesus praises the nature of little children. Jesus once again asks us to consider the trusting faith of a child. Jesus is not suggesting we return to babyhood but to embrace the unwavering trust children have in their parents.

Do you find comfort in the presence of God? We need the same trust little ones have for their parents with God as our Father. As we grow, we seek independence, but in our relationship with God, we must remain like trusting children. Whatever happens, just say: “My Father I know you are here with me”.

This week, try to imitate Christ’s example of humility and sacrifice in your relationship with family and community.

Happy 27th Sunday

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

"It's not how much you give but how love you put in giving”

"It's not how much you give but how love you put in giving” Mother Teresa of Calcutta

“Warning to the Rich. Come now, you rich, weep and wail over your impending miseries. Your wealth has rotted away, your clothes have become moth-eaten, your gold and silver have corroded, and that corrosion will be a testimony against you; it will devour your flesh like a fire.” (James 5:1-3)

James speaks against those who store wealth while others suffer. Food is being thrown away while millions of children go hungry daily. St. James invites to be charitable. For St. James, helping those in need is a key part of living our faith.

Pray and reflect on these quotes from Mother Theresa of Calcutta:

“A life not lived for others is not a life.” “I prefer you to make mistakes in kindness than work miracles in unkindness.”

Come Holy, Spirit and enkindle in us the fire of your love!

Happy 26th Sunday!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Peaceful Living

Peaceful Living

This week the second reading from James 3:16-4:3 calls for peace and purity. It warns against jealousy and selfishness, urging us to seek peace and good deeds. St. John Paul II is teaching us that:

“There is no true peace without fairness, truth, justice, and solidarity.”.

Pray for peace, love and unity in this time of election campaign.

Come Holy Spirit and make me channel your peace!

Have a blessed Sunday and a peaceful week ahead!

Fr. Georges Roger Bidzogo sac

I will demonstrate my faith to you from my works.

James 2:14-18

“Indeed someone might say, “You have faith and I have work.” Demonstrate your faith to me without works, and I will demonstrate my faith to you from my works.”

We are challenged to actively live our faith following Jesus’ example of love. Our faith should be shown through good works.

“Faith without works is dead”

1) Let your words, actions and decisions throughout this week reflect your active, lively and vibrant faith.

2) Commit yourself to act by faith and produce works and fruits of the spirit: Think of being kind, patient to someone; show love, goodness and demonstrate joy and peace and among the family. Manifest your faithfulness to God and self-control in dealing with situations (Galatians 5:22-34)

Let us meditate on the words of St. Augustine:

“Faith and works must go together for faith to be considered "living". Faith which is not accompanied by obedience to Christ's commands is the "faith of demons"

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Allow Jesus to heal your spiritual deafness and muteness.

“Jesus takes the man aside, puts his fingers in his ears, spits, and touches his tongue. He then looks up to heaven, sighs, and says "Ephphatha", which means "Be opened".” (Mark 7:31-37)

In times of grief, despair and failure, we can be “deaf” to the presence of God in the love and compassion shown to us by others.

Sometimes, we can become so preoccupied with the noise and clamor of the marketplace, the leisures, the worldly attractions that we are unable to hear the voices of those we love and who love us.

At times, we may find it hard to speak to God in prayer and harder still to hear Him speaking to us through the Bible, through the Church, and through the events of life.

Tips: Imitate the dumb man in the Gospel by seeking out Jesus, following him away from the crowd. Spend more of your time in coming to know him intimately as you study Holy Scripture (joining a bible study could be one step), have more time in adoration of the blessed sacrament and try to experience him directly in your lives in personal prayer.

I truly believe that our growing awareness of the healing presence of Jesus in our lives will open our ears and loosen our tongues for gratitude!

Happy 23rd Sunday

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

“For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” (Ephesians 5:32)

“For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” (Ephesians 5:32)

Meditate with these words of Venerable Fulton Sheen:

“It takes three to make love, not two: you, your spouse, and God. Without God, people only succeed in bringing out the worst in one another”.

Take 10 minutes to pray for and with your spouse this week. Take 10 minutes to pray for one couple that you know.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

Live with joyful hearts

This week, St. Paul is advising us to live with joyful hearts. How can we stay focused on God’s goodness throughout this week? St. Paul himself answers this question by inviting us to pray regularly, singing spiritual songs, and giving thanks to God. Keeping a grateful heart helps us remember His blessings! Meditate on the words of St. John Chrysostom: “Happiness can only be achieved by looking inward and learning to enjoy whatever life has and this requires transforming greed into gratitude.”

Happy Sunday to you All.

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC

“They shall all be taught by God.” (John 6:45)

Living the Eucharist. “They shall all be taught by God.” (John 6:45)

Quoting prophet Isaiah 54:13 and Jeremiah 31:33-34, explains how we need to open our heart to accept the gift of God. By listening to the word of God, we are drawn to Jesus. The love of God draws us to Christ and the Eucharist becomes the transformative power that helps us overcome ungodliness and worldly lust. Every Eucharistic celebration is therefore an invitation

to die to sin and live unto righteousness through Christ our Lord (Romans 6:11).

This week try to attend daily Masses and try to live a sober, righteous and a godly life. May every Eucharist we partake teach how to become like Jesus by becoming “living bread” for others!

Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC