Homilies about hospitality
St. Agnes–Our Lady of Fatima
Cleveland, Ohio
Jesus, The Hound of Heaven: Why God Relentlessly Pursues You
St. Agnes–Our Lady of Fatima · Cleveland, Ohio · Mar 8, 2026
Sunday MassThe homily focuses on Jesus' thirst for our longing, using the image of 'The Hound of Heaven' to illustrate God's relentless pursuit of us. It connects this to the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting her loneliness and the church's call to offer radical hospitality and welcome to all, especially those who feel judged or unwelcome. The core message is that Jesus longs to fill the God-shaped hole in our hearts, and we are called to slow down, pray, and allow Him to quench our deepest thirsts.
St. Francis Xavier
Cincinnati, Ohio
St. Peter, St. Patrick, and the Simple Fidelity of Lent
St. Francis Xavier · Cincinnati, Ohio · Mar 17, 2026
Daily MassThe homily reflects on the seemingly imperfect nature of St. Peter and St. Patrick, suggesting that true fidelity to faith lies not in grand achievements but in simple acts of prayer, hospitality, and kindness. It challenges the congregation to view Lent not as a self-improvement project, but as an opportunity to practice fidelity by welcoming others and recognizing Christ in everyone, even in difficult interactions.
St. Francis De Sales Church
Beckley, West Virginia
Why Abraham Comforts Lazarus: The Power of Radical Hospitality
St. Francis De Sales Church · Beckley, West Virginia · Mar 5, 2026
Daily MassThe homily reflects on the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, emphasizing the eternal consequences of our actions and the danger of a hardened heart. Drawing on St. John Chrysostom, the homilist explains why Abraham comforts Lazarus, highlighting Abraham's profound hospitality to strangers, regardless of their status, as a model for welcoming even the 'worthless' among us.
St. Bernadette
Orchard Park, New York
The Real Sin of Sodom and Gomorrah: It's Not What You Think
St. Bernadette · Orchard Park, New York · Mar 3, 2026
Daily MassThe homily reinterprets the traditional understanding of Sodom and Gomorrah, arguing that their primary sin was not a specific sexual behavior but a profound lack of hospitality and respect for those in need. It connects this to the Gospel reading about the Pharisees, emphasizing that true faith is demonstrated through deeds of charity and genuine care for others, rather than outward displays of piety or rigid adherence to rules.