Browsing Thoughts from Fr. Bob
Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 11/25/19
Christmas is still a month away, but you wouldn’t know it if you turned on the television or walked into a department store. But here and now we celebrate a very different holy day, the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. This marks the end ... Read More »
True Measure of Faith
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 11/15/19
Some days are memorable because they seem almost perfect. Nature is everywhere showcasing its most beautiful side. The sky is blue, the sun is shining, the air is clean and refreshing. Even the people we meet seem to be in a great mood. On such days it is easy ... Read More »
We are a people filled with hope
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 11/06/19
During the month of November, we call to mind and pray for those who have died: friends, family, and members of our faith community of St. James. November also brings the end of the church liturgical year. For this reason, our readings focus on the subject of death. But ... Read More »
Remembering our faithful departed
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 11/06/19
During the month of November, we remember our faithful departed. Over the last two days we have celebrated All Saints Day and All Souls Day, honoring those whose lives have been holy and recalling all those we love whom we have lost in death. For God, however, no one ... Read More »
Directing our prayers
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 11/06/19
When we pray, are we directing our prayer outward to God, or are we directing it inward toward ourselves? In Jesus’ parable, he says that the Pharisee said his prayer to himself. This could mean that he said it silently, but it could also indicate that he directed it ... Read More »
How do we pray?
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 10/23/19
How do we pray? Do we pray only once a week when we come to weekend Mass? Maybe once in a while when something important comes up? Or do we pray regularly and purposefully? Do we try to listen to what God is telling us? Do we find prayer ... Read More »
Eucharist = Thanksgiving
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 10/08/19
As we gather to celebrate the Eucharist, let us not forget that the word “eucharist” means thanksgiving. This Greek word is used to describe what Jesus did before sharing his body and blood at the Last Supper. Today, as always, we give thanks to God for all the blessings ... Read More »
Respect Life
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 10/08/19
Today on Respect Life Sunday, we hear Jesus use the image of a mustard seed. The mustard seed is so tiny, not much larger than a grain of sand, yet when planted and nurtured, grows into a large, strong tree. This takes time though. As we look around today, ... Read More »
St. Francis of Assisi - Pet Blessing
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 9/25/19
The memorial of St. Francis of Assisi is celebrated Friday of this week and is a customary day to bless animals. Join us October 5 at 10:00 AM to have your pet blessed.
What comes to mind with the rise of importance of animals in our culture is how ... Read More »
Rummage Thank You and Weekend Parable
Posted by Fr Bob Betz on 9/18/19
Let me begin with words of gratitude on the success of another Rummage Sale fund-raiser. First, and foremost, to Bernie Bellin and all his co-workers for the many, many hours they put in toward the great outcome we had. Secondly, to those who brought items for the bake sale. ... Read More »