Dear Parishioner,
 
Hospitality is one of the main pillars of Stewardship.  As a matter of fact, it is the first of the four pillars.  If people are hungry or thirsty and those needs are not met it is nearly impossible to have a conversation about anything or get on with the everyday work of life itself. 
 
This gospel is one of many wherein Jesus takes care of this most basic need.  The disciples are hesitant and somewhat unbelieving that Jesus will be able to do so.  There is no record in this story of any proclamation or teaching other than the miracle itself and it speaks volumes to us about the importance of meeting the basic needs of others.
 
As evidenced by our parish, we have, on many occasions, extended our hospitality to those in our community and in faraway places.  Let us never think that this charity is unimportant or mundane; rather, it is without question the fulfillment of Jesus’ command in gospel after gospel.  We as a parish should be very proud of how we have met this need through the years, but of course so much more must be done and we will strive to do the best we can.
 
I thank you for participating in the many ministries that bring sustenance to others.  May the gospel continue to inspire us in our dedication to the poor.

When I read this week’s Gospel, it brought me back to when my kids were little and I would long for a few moments of peace and quiet to just be alone and catch my breath. But then quickly realized, how much they needed me.
  
So, reading how Jesus and the Apostles traveled to an isolated place to “catch their breath”, made me understand how important it is to rest and regroup. Jesus had compassion towards His friends and knew they needed time to reflect and pray quietly. However, as they arrived to their “quiet” destination, they were greeted by thousands who continued to seek the spiritual guidance of their leader. Jesus also had compassion towards all these people so instead of turning them away in frustration, he is moved, and begins to teach them many things. I love the line when Jesus describes the throngs of followers. “They were like sheep without a shepherd.” How could He turn them away, they needed Him?
  
I guess I can relate. I love teaching the children about Jesus and the Gospel. I love providing them with knowledge so they can grow in their love of their faith and understand what it is to be a disciple of Christ, and how important it is to share all that they have with the crowd.