This Sunday, May 11, 2025, holds a profound significance for us. First, it is our weekly commemoration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, an anthem of our faith that brings renewal and hope to all believers.
Adding to our usual Sunday meetings is the historic election of Pope Leo XIV this last Thursday. The humble characteristics of this unassuming prelate at a time like we have in our world today add an immense spiritual resonance to what we hear. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV became the first North American-born pontiff in over 2000 years of the Catholic Church’s history. The world hopes to tap from his diverse roots from Italian, French, Afro-Haitian, and Spanish parentage, combined with his extensive missionary work in Peru and other parts of the world, reflecting our Church’s universal nature. In response to these facts, the New York Post wrote that his election symbolized a bridge between cultures and a commitment to unity within our global community.
Another event for today is our annual Mother’s Day celebration in the United States, which allows us to honor and celebrate the unwavering love and sacrifices of mothers, grandmothers, and motherly figures. Like the shepherds who hear and follow God’s voice, our mothers embody resilience and grace, following and guiding their families through life’s challenges. Their devotion mirrors the nurturing spirit of the Church, offering comfort and strength to those they care for and ensuring no one comes to any harm.
In the spirit of the early Church, as recounted in Acts 13:14, 43-52, we find joy in the shared experiences of our faith community. Just as Paul and Barnabas spread the good news, reaching out to the Gentile communities, who shared the joy of their conversion with other Christian brothers and sisters, we too are called to share love and compassion in our daily lives. In this light, we don’t want to spend the whole time talking; we want to show our mothers, sisters, and wives how we care about them by carrying forward today’s lessons of renewal, leadership, and maternal love. We want to honor our mothers daily with reverence and support, recognizing their vital role in shaping our faith and families.
Congratulations to the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, and Happy Mother’s Day (in the United States) to all the incredible women who inspire and nurture us.
Thank you Fr. for beautiful homily .Im so happy for Pope Leo 14 being our new Pope . He was given to us by the Holy Spirit . Every thing came in one week . Easter then the election of the new Pope and lastly Mother’s Day where I’m so thankful to Mother Mary being our universal Mother . God is so good !’nn