Homilies about resurrection

Why God Allows Evil: The Parable of Wheat and Weeds in a Suffering World

Father Anthony

The homily explores the paradox of God's kingdom: it starts small like a mustard seed or yeast, growing invisibly but powerfully, yet it coexists with evil in the world, like wheat and weeds. The priest uses the recent murders of two young men in the parish to illustrate the reality of evil and suffering, emphasizing God's patience and ultimate justice, and the superior power of resurrection over death.

Finding Hope in Loss: Maria del Refugio Padilla's Legacy of Faith and Love

This homily, delivered at a funeral mass, emphasizes that despite the pain of death, believers find hope and consolation in Jesus' resurrection. The priest highlights that God is not distant from human suffering, but experienced it through Christ, and that living a life united with God gives meaning to suffering and ensures resurrection. The homily also includes heartfelt eulogies from the deceased's grandson and daughter, who share personal anecdotes and reflect on her deep faith, love for family, and gratitude, portraying her life as a testament to sowing good seeds and reaping a rich harvest of love and unity.

Finding Hope in Christ: A Funeral Homily on Death and New Life

The homily for Valrie "Jean" Martin's funeral emphasizes Christian hope in the face of death, reminding the faithful that death is not the end but a transition to new life with Christ. Drawing from scripture, the priest encourages mourners to find comfort in the resurrection and keep their eyes fixed on Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life.

A Priest's Homily for His Mother's Funeral: Hope in the Face of Grief

The homily, delivered by the deceased's son who is a priest, emphasizes the Christian hope of resurrection and eternal life in the face of grief. It highlights Linda's baptism as a promise of God's gifts and a place in heaven, and touches on the unique tradition of a priest's mother being buried with the manutergium as a 'get into heaven free card,' humorously noting his Southern Baptist mother's situation. The homily concludes with a heartfelt 'Thank you, Mom' and a reflection on the joy of reunion in God's kingdom.

The Treasure in Our Earthen Vessels: Understanding Body and Soul

The homily clarifies St. Paul's teaching on "treasure in earthen vessels," explaining that the treasure is our eternal soul, redeemed and conformed to the divine through baptism, residing in our fragile bodies. It emphasizes that both body and soul are meant for redemption and resurrection, urging respect for this union as Christ came to save us wholly.

Sowing in Tears, Reaping in Joy: The True Meaning of Service

The homily reflects on the Christian life as a journey of 'sowing in tears' to 'reap rejoicing,' drawing parallels to the life of St. James the Apostle. It emphasizes that true Christian leadership and positions within the Church are not about titles or power, but rather about humble service and willingness to participate in Christ's suffering to share in his resurrection.

Why God Allows Weeds to Grow: The Justice of the Resurrection

The homily reflects on the parable of the wheat and weeds, emphasizing that while evil exists in the world, God's ultimate justice comes through the resurrection. It encourages believers to embrace self-sacrifice and forgiveness, trusting in God's power and promise of eternal life, rather than seeking immediate revenge or questioning God's methods.

Kitsy's Legacy: Living for God by Living for Others

The homily for Katharine Cunningham Teltsch (Kitsy) emphasizes her life as a testament to living for others, marked by patience, selflessness, and faith. The priest shares personal anecdotes of Kitsy's constant smile and her 40-year sobriety, highlighting her ability to turn struggles into strength and service. The core message is that true Christian living means serving God by serving others, finding joy and purpose in everyday acts of love and forgiveness, and embracing the hope of resurrection.