09/05/2026
Dear Parishioners,
It gives me great joy to reach out to you through this avenue on behalf of our pastor. As you may well be aware, for the next two weeks, our pastor, Msgr. Jonas, will be away in the Philippines to attend the priestly ordination of a young man whose vocation has been close to his heart. He has accompanied this young man through prayer, spiritual guidance, and financial support. It is therefore a special joy for him to return home and witness the fruit of a vocation he helped nurture. As St. Paul reminds us, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth” (1 Cor 3:6).
In the light of accompany one another, the gospel passage of this sunday (Mt 18:15–20) reminds us that Christian life is a journey we make together. Jesus says, “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone.” These words reveal something profound about Christian community: when relationships are wounded, we are not called to walk away, gossip, condemn, or carry resentment in our hearts. We are called to seek restoration.
Notice that Jesus first says, “go to him alone.” This is a call to charity, discretion, and humility. Before speaking about another person’s fault to others, we are invited to speak directly to the person, not to destroy his or her reputation, but to win back a brother or sister. The goal of Christian correction is never humiliation; it is reconciliation and salvation. A parish becomes truly Christian when its members can speak the truth with love, forgive sincerely, and seek peace.
Jesus concludes with the beautiful promise: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” When we gather in faith, forgive one another, pray for one another, and seek reconciliation, Christ Himself is present among us.
May Mary, Help of Christians, intercede for our parish and teach us to walk together in faith, charity, forgiveness, and truth. May Christ always remain at the center of our parish community. Thank you, Msgr. Jonas, for giving me this rare privilege to share my reflection here.
Padre Idahosa