From the Pastor: January 29, 2023; John Bosco

Our readings this week are all about being humble and lowly in the eyes of the world so we may be exalted and raised in the presence of God.  It is through the lowly and poor that God selects his great warriors, His Kingdom builders. Likewise for those who are graced with apparitions of Mary.  We should all seek our rewards in the next life, not in this one.

One great example of such a lowly and humble person who built huge chunks of God’s Kingdom is St. John Bosco, whom we honor this Tuesday with his Memorial. Several pictures of him hang in the Landsman Center in Napoleonville.  

St John’s father died when he was two, during a time of great famine; leaving the family in dire straights.  Yet his mother always found ways to help the homeless with food, shelter, and clothing.  At nine, he had a dream in which many boys swore as they played.  A majestic man and woman walked amongst them.  The man told him that in meekness and charity, he would “conquer these your friends.”  Then the lady added, “Be strong, humble, and robust.  When the time comes you will understand everything.”

He learned how to do magic tricks by closely observing circus performers.  Then he staged a show for his friends, the end of which he repeated the Gospel he had heard that day and invited them to pray with him.  This became his early method of ministry.

It wasn’t long before he became a priest and worked tirelessly for the poor and often exploited boys; many of whom were imprisoned.  Within twenty years of his ordination, he and his mother were providing lodging for 800 boys!  He recommended many to the priesthood and established the Society of St. Francis de Sales which continues to help children around the world today. He was born to his heavenly reward 135 years ago, on January 31st.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for giving us so many outstanding examples of how to live your words of love.  May we likewise become living examples of your Word among us, that some priest will hold up to his community 100 years from now!  Amen.

God Bless!

Blessings,

Fr. Eddie