Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Perry, FL

10/21/2026

10/18/2026

Father’s Homily Summary: Being on God’s Side

The central message of Father’s homily was that we should not ask God to be on our side, but instead seek to be on His side. God knows what is best for everyone, and our responsibility is to align our will with His, rather than expecting Him to conform to ours.

God remains faithful to us even when we fail to keep our covenant with Him. Father used the example of King Cyrus, who freed the Jewish people from exile, permitted the rebuilding of the Temple, and returned their sacred possessions. Although Cyrus was not an Israelite, God worked through him to accomplish His purpose. This reminds us that God’s will can be accomplished through unexpected people and circumstances.

Father also reflected on the Gospel in which the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus wisely responded by telling them to give Caesar what belongs to Caesar and God what belongs to God.

The deeper meaning is that while Caesar’s image was stamped on a coin, God’s image is stamped on each of us. We are created in His image, and His law is written on our hearts. Therefore, we belong to God and are called to give ourselves to Him.

Faith is not about convincing God to support our plans, opinions, or desires. It is about trusting His wisdom, surrendering to His will, and choosing to stand on His side. We are made in God’s image, not He in ours.

10/11/2026

Everyone Is Invited to the Wedding Feast!

In today’s homily, Father reminded us that Heaven is the greatest wedding feast, and God invites everyone!

At Baptism, we receive a white garment representing the purity of our soul. But sin stains that garment. Through the Sacrament of Confession, we receive God’s forgiveness, and our souls are made clean again. This is why going to Confession is so important in preparing for Heaven.

Jesus tells us, “Many are invited, but few are chosen.” Everyone receives the invitation, but we must prepare our souls to attend.

Christ conquered death so we could share in this eternal celebration. The Eucharist is a foretaste of Heaven’s wedding feast here on earth.

God wants everyone at His banquet. Let us keep our wedding garments clean through repentance, Confession, and God’s grace.