09/05/2026
From the Pastor’s Desk:
Growing Together in Charity
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As a parish family, we are blessed to worship, serve, and work together. Yet, because we are human, misunderstandings, disagreements, and differences of opinion will sometimes arise. What matters most is not whether we experience conflict, but how we respond to it.
Jesus teaches us in today’s Gospel not to ignore problems or allow them to grow into resentment. Instead, He calls us to approach one another directly, honestly, and with charity. Christian charity does not mean pretending that everything is fine, nor does it mean trying to prove that we are right. It means seeking the truth while always protecting the dignity of the other person.
In parish life, we must resist the temptation to speak about someone rather than speak to someone. Gossip can divide a community, while honest and charitable conversation can heal it. We may not always agree with one another, but we can disagree without losing respect, patience, and love.
Let us remember that the person with whom we disagree is not our enemy. He or she is our brother or sister in Christ. Before speaking, let us ask: Am I speaking out of love? Am I seeking understanding? Am I helping to build unity?
May the Lord give us humble hearts that are willing to listen, courageous hearts that are willing to speak the truth with love, and generous hearts that are always ready to forgive. When we choose charity over pride and reconciliation over division, we allow Christ to remain truly present in the midst of our parish family.
God bless you and remain Blessed!!
─ Fr. Shoby Mathew
