Daily Homilies

A River That Carries Us Home

On the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR gently invites us to pause and remember the moment our own journey with God began. Reflecting on Jesus stepping into the Jordan, this homily helps us see Baptism not as something distant or forgotten, but as a living gift that continues to shape our lives. It is the moment we were claimed by God, filled with grace, and set on a path that carries us—like a river—through every season of life and ultimately home to heaven.

Spiritual Cleansing: The Grace of Baptism

In this homily, Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher reflects on the gift of baptism and the spiritual cleansing it brings, showing how water symbolizes God’s grace renewing our hearts and souls. He shares the humility of John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Christ, and reminds us that baptism, prayer, and small acts of devotion, like blessing ourselves with holy water, help purify us and keep God’s grace alive in our daily lives. As we approach the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, Fr. Luke invites us to reflect, pray, and let Christ increase in our hearts.

Strength for the Spiritual Battle

Life often feels like a constant struggle, and that is part of the Christian journey. In this homily, Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR reflects on the Letter of St. John and reminds us that the Christian life is a real spiritual battle—but one where victory has already been won through Jesus Christ. Drawing from everyday experiences, even the world of sports, he shows how struggle can bring out the best in us. Through prayer and the sacraments—especially Baptism, Confession, and the Eucharist—we receive the grace to persevere, rise again when we fall, and remain united with Christ, who leads us to true victory.

Love That Proves We Know God

Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR reflects on St. John’s teaching that true faith is shown through action, not just words. Using examples from Jesus’ life and ministry, he explains how devotion to God is inseparable from acts of mercy, compassion, and care for others. Because God acts first and gives us His grace, we are empowered to live our faith in real, transformative ways that go beyond what we say.

Perfect Love Casts Out Fear

Today, Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR, reflects on the truth that faith is a journey—and even the apostles struggled to understand Jesus. Drawing from St. John’s words, “Perfect love casts out fear,” he invites us to move beyond a fear-driven faith and grow into a deeper, more mature love of God. As the Jubilee continues at the Shrine, we are encouraged to trust in God’s love, be patient with ourselves, and allow faith, hope, and love to shape our daily lives.

The Eucharist: Love Meant to Be Shared

In today’s homily, Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR reflects on the Eucharist as a living and tangible sign of God’s love. Through the miracle of the loaves and fishes, we are reminded that the love we receive from Jesus is never meant to be kept for ourselves, but to be shared freely with others. Like a flame that is passed from candle to candle, this Eucharistic love never diminishes—it only grows as we carry Christ into our daily lives.

Faith That Builds the Kingdom

Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR, reflects on the life of St. John Neumann, the first male American citizen to be canonized. Though gifted and tireless, St. John Neumann lived a life of humility—enduring loneliness, sacrifice, and even mockery while giving everything he had for the Church. Through his witness, Fr. Luke reminds us that the Kingdom of God is already present and still growing, built quietly through faith, perseverance, and faithful love.

Searching for the Morning Star

On the Feast of the Epiphany, this homily invites us to ask a simple but honest question: Are we truly searching for Jesus? Through the image of the Morning Star and the journey of the Magi, we are reminded that Christ is always near, even when our hearts feel distant or distracted. When we humbly turn toward Him in prayer and place Him first, His light rises within us, bringing peace, healing, and a deeper love for others.

Living as God’s Beloved

God allows others to see the Holy Spirit at work through us when we live with faith, confidence, and hope. This homily reminds us that prayer, obedience, and trust invite God’s grace into our daily lives, even in moments of struggle, where He works most powerfully through us. When we stop leaning on ourselves and lean on God, our lives become a quiet sign that draws others to Him.

A Voice Crying Out for Christ

In this homily, we reflect on St. John the Baptist, a voice crying out in the wilderness, sent only to announce Jesus Christ. Like John, we too are called to point others to Jesus—not by seeking worldly comfort, but by trusting God and following the Holy Spirit. By surrendering our worries and inviting the Spirit to guide our hearts, decisions, and daily life, we discover the freedom and confidence that come from living fully for Christ.