The Epiphany of the Lord, Jan 4, 2026

Dear friends,

Mother Church invites us this day to contemplate the mystery of the Epiphany of our Lord Jesus Christ. Epiphany usually falls on January 6th, which is twelve days after Christmas. According to tradition, this is the span of time from the birth of Jesus until the visit of the magi from the east. Epiphany doesn’t always fall on a Sunday, so the Church celebrates it on the nearest Sunday (this year, January 4, 2026), and it is called “Epiphany Sunday.” The Greek word “epiphany” simply means “to reveal” or “to make manifest.” It was the name given by the early Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the revelation of God’s love to the world (John 3:16). The Church observes this feast to recognize that Jesus, the Son of God, comes to reveal God’s plan to save the world. Jesus Christ is the inextinguishable light of the gospels. This feast also reminds us that God is always at work revealing himself, even today, and that he has not abandoned his people. He is always close at hand, working in, around, and through us, leading us to other “epiphanies” so that we might realize just how much God loves us.


As such, I take this Sunday to reflect with you on the impact you have made not only on both the global missionary efforts of the Church and diocesan evangelical efforts but also on our local communities through our many outreach initiatives. I am immensely grateful to Cindy and Pete Lamonica and the teams of people who work under the umbrella of our Outreach ministry, to include Janet Owen−Jones and the Feed My Flock ministry and Lulu and Tim Farrell who coordinate the Farmworkers effort.


Our Outreach ministry also has helped many non−government social service organizations (NGOs). Through them, we are able to reach even more of the needy, the vulnerable, and the marginalized than we have staff and volunteers to address. Included among these are: Family Promise of Brevard, Brevard Senior Nutrition Program, Aging Matters, Street Showers, Our Daily Bread, the Sharing Center of Central Brevard, the Haven for Children, Bishop Grady Villa, the Children’s Hunger Project, St. Stephen’s Way, and some of our Catholic parishes and schools that are in need ... and the need continues to grow each year.


One of the most uplifting Christmas events sponsored by St. John’s was held on 11 December, when approximately 300 young adults with various medical challenges enjoyed a wonderful Christmas luncheon with their caretakers in our beautifully decorated hall. This annual event brings such joy to all in attendance. As a parish community, we packed 5100 meals for the Children’s Hunger Project, that in addition to the 2,700 packed by the Feed My Flock team and the 1300 by the Notre Dame Club. This amazing effort provides meals for children who go hungry on the weekends when school is closed.


The Feed My Flock team also provided more than 310 cupcakes for the Ministry to the Sick, bringing joy to hospitals, nursing homes, and the homebound. They also fed four families in shelter at WoodSpring Suites through Family Promise of Brevard. In support of our 25th Jubilee, our parish came together to prepare and distribute over 300 peanut butter & jelly and meat sandwiches during our Matthew’s Hope outreach to feed neighbors experiencing homelessness. A group of volunteers also went to Matthew’s Hope to help serve a hot lunch to the guests who visited the facility.


Through Aging Matters, we donated bread for distribution and packed and delivered 400 unperishable food item baskets to homebound seniors. Through our Christmas Giving Tree ministry coordinated by Susan Answay, we were able to bring joy to more than 400 children and adults. With your generous assistance, we supported the Farmworkers of Fellsmere with annual collections of nonperishable food items and clothes to assist with their mission.


Many other ministries such as CCW, Gratia Plena, Seedlings of Hope, SJE−4−Veterans, WINGS, Blessed Is She, the Sunshine Ministry, Gen Hope, blood drives, our Faith Formation programs, and our Mom’s ministry have offered a number of activities not only in support of our parish needs but also those of the larger local community. Our Rosary Makers have made several thousand rosaries that have been shipped to various people in nursing homes and hospitals and to other organizations both within our country and abroad. Our Kitchen Crew with wonderfully talented chefs and helpers and our Parish Life ministry team have helped feed thousands this past year through numerous events.


In addition to all of the above, you have been most generous in helping the Missionary Co−op from Africa, our Sister Diocese in the Dominican Republic, the Holy Cross Peru missions, and Catholic Charities. Our Funeral Ministry team has assisted with the funerals of more than 100 individuals and have provided guidance, comfort, and consolation to their grief−stricken families. In addition, our GriefShare ministry has sustained our ongoing efforts to walk with grieving members who continue to experience a void in their lives left by the loss of a spouse/child.


All of that being said, I must also mention both the various liturgical ministry teams and our Faith Formation programming that facilitate the spiritual needs of all in our parish. I express my sincere and heartfelt thanks to the 73 ministry leaders and their team members for such amazing dedication and commitment to our parish life, a gift to all.


Fr. Martin and our deacons and staff have been an amazing blessing in supporting the needs of such a large and vibrant parish. Your assistance and support often go unrecognized, and I thank you all!

As noted, the sheer volume of our outreach is astonishing, and it is accomplished only through the expression of our continued love for one other and our neighbors. The challenge is to multiply our efforts 1000−fold by continuing to gather as a parish community, sharing generously of our time, talent, and treasure. What would l I do without YOU! You make the Impossible POSSIBLE. WHAT A BLESSING YOU ARE!

With love,

Fr. John


Who is St. Brother André Bessette?


Saint Brother André Bessette was born on August 9, 1845, and died on January 6, 1937. He was canonized a saint on October 17, 2010. Pope Benedict XVI declared him a saint for the Universal Church in a ceremony in Rome. He is the first Congregation of Holy Cross member to receive this honor. Saint André believed in the healing power of Christ Jesus. His devotion to Saint Joseph was his guide to God’s fidelity.


Alfred Bessette, his baptismal name, came from humble beginnings and was considered to be illiterate. He came from a large family near Montreal, Quebec, Canada but was an orphaned He was weak in body and strength. He suffered from stomach ailments. Because of his frailty, he was not considered a suitable candidate for religious life. His life was filled with paradox. Yet, God raised him up to reveal to others how faith mends body and soul.


Alfred desired a life of prayer. He wanted to join a religious community. His pastor at his home parish suggested the Congregation of Holy Cross. The priest told the superiors of the community, “I am sending you a saint.” At first, Holy Cross was reluctant to accept him. However, they soon became aware of Alfred’s integrity and prayerfulness. Alfred became “Brother André,” as he entered religious life.


The Congregation of Holy Cross assigned Brother André to serve as Porter for Notre Dame College near Montreal. He ministered at the door for the next 40 years. However, he didn’t just open the physical door for guests, he began to open the door of faith for many who were sick, disabled, and in need of physical nourishment and security. Brother André’s devotion to Saint Joseph began to flourish in the encounters he had with people. Word of Andre’s healing touch spread rapidly. Brother André never sought out the limelight. André always realized that Saint Joseph was allowing people to receive the healing they needed, so he sought the foster father of Jesus. Brother André leaned deeply into his relationship with Saint Joseph and invited others to do the same.


People requested Brother André for spiritual healing for their children and also for themselves. Word spread before the Internet, before social media, and before television. The healing miracles began to emerge. At the high point of Brother André’s ministry, he encountered 600 people a day. He told them to be short, to be quick, because of the number of people in line to seek his faith and healing touch. Brother André did not have the physical strength to spend much time with the many requests that came to the door of the college. Yet, he welcomed their stories and their souls.


The Holy Cross community in which Brother André served struggled at times to support the ministry of Brother André. They were confused about what to do with all the people who wanted just a moment of advice from the saintly man. As with any prophetic person, Brother André just did not fit into the ministry and life of the other members of the Holy Cross community. Brother André persisted in his inner call to bring people to Saint Joseph and to the sacraments of the Church.


Brother André spent his days listening to people’s requests for healing and their stories of pain, anguish, and uncertainty. Perhaps, even more importantly, Brother André spent his nights praying for the people with whom he encountered during the day. It was not unusual for Brother André to sleep only an hour or two at night. He wanted to work through the pain people confessed to him. He knew people needed spiritual help and he kept knocking on heaven’s door all through the night. His life was purely devoted to God. He begged God to heal the people whom he listened to during the daylight hours. God consumed him. People’s suffering became his life work, his prayer, and his way of life.


One of the most important aspects of Brother André’s life was hospitality, which may be defined as the radical acceptance of others. To truly listen to people’s anguish, their stories, and their suffering became his holy hospitality. People felt heard by Brother André, even though their encounters with him were often brief. They experienced a recognition from another human being that their lives mattered. When doctors and healthcare workers gave up on people’s healing, Brother André accepted them. He put a spiritual arm around them. He comforted them with his integrity and his prayerful heart. Hospitality for André became his life and true acceptance of people became his spiritual story.


Please pray on January 7, his feast day, for the healing of the sick, the discouraged, and the forgotten. Saint André Bessette, pray for us.


Rev. Ronald Raab, C.S.C.

Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord, April 5, 2026

April 3, 2026
Dear Friends, We have journeyed together through the holy season of Lent, having followed Christ throughout Holy Week and the Triduum, where we experienced the unwavering love of Jesus. It is my sincerest hope that the events of these most holy days have helped us to realize the immensity of the Father’s love as he painfully allowed his Son to be sacrificed for our sins. On Holy Thursday, Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist, giving us himself. On Good Friday, he endured excruciating pain and the ultimate shame of being crucified on a cross, paying an unimaginable price for our salvation. Then, on Holy Saturday, he lay dormant in the tomb to show that nothing is impossible for God. We thought hope was put to death, the hope of a people who long for a God to vindicate our toils and sufferings. But then God, our Father, raised His Son from the dead. This is the joyful news of the RESURRECTION of Jesus Christ that we are called to share on this Easter Sunday. Our songs of “Hosanna” are now transformed into “Alleluias,” and with great joy we now proclaim what an amazing God we have in Jesus Christ, He who has defeated even death. The Resurrection of Jesus brings the promise of eternal life, the undeniable message that hope is alive. As Catholic Christians, we are called to live that hope. Easter Sunday is often called the "Feast of Fresh Flowers," symbolizing the birth of our eternal hope. But beyond the Easter lilies and the beautiful, sacred music, today is a call to action. In Acts 10:34-43, the early disciples realize that the "message spread" because they couldn't keep the Good News to themselves. The Resurrection isn't just a miracle to observe; it’s an invitation to participate in God’s ongoing work of restoration. Because Jesus lives, forgiveness is possible where there once was bitterness. Purpose is found where there once was wandering. Community is built where there once was isolation. Today, we don't just celebrate the completion of a story; we celebrate a new beginning. We are the "Easter people” called to carry the light of the Resurrection into every corner of our world. As we celebrate 25 years of our parish’s existence, I wish for us to remember our theme: A journey of Grace, Faith, and Hope. Let us be grateful to God for willing us into existence as a community, let us continue to live the light of the Resurrection, and let us never give up the hope that, with God, we will bear much fruit in sharing the Good News of the Resurrection to all around us. Christ is Risen Indeed! I wish to thank each and every one of you for being part of this family blessed to be chosen as His own. Thank you for your unwavering support of our growth. St. John’s community is known for its incredible generosity. Thank you for your love and dedication to serving the Lord and each other. I am grateful to Fr. Martin for his continued presence among us, to our deacons and their wives who minister to our community in so many ways, to our staff for supporting the day-to-day activities of our parish, to all who involve yourselves in the myriad of ministries offered here, to those who have been faithful members of our parish throughout its 25-year history, and to those who have joined us along the way. I warmly extend my open arms to all who may be waiting to join us. You are precious, and we welcome you! On behalf of Fr. Martin, Bro. Thomas, the deacons, and the staff, I wish you all a very blessed and joy-filled Easter. With love, Fr. John

Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord, March 29, 2026

March 29, 2026
Dear friends, We enter the holiest week in the liturgical calendar of the Church. This is the week when we celebrate and relive the central Mystery of our salvaꢀon. The days of Holy Week from Monday to Thursday have precedence over all other celebraꢀons. It is a sacred ꢀme during which we enter into a profound union with Christ, the one who leads us from triumph, through suffering, and into the glory of new life. During these momentous days, we are invited not simply to remember these life-altering events but to live them. Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord. It is a day mixed with joy and paradox. We wave palms and proclaim Christ as King yet, as we parꢀcipate in the Passion narraꢀve, we learn how quickly human hearts can change when we, the people of Jerusalem, move instantly from our praise and singing of “Hosanna” to shouts of “Crucify Him.” It is a day to examine our own fidelity to Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. From there, we move into the heart of our faith, the Sacred Triduum, three holy days that comprise one continuous celebration. On Holy Thursday, we gather for the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7 p.m. Here, Jesus gives us two priceless giſts: the Eucharist and the priesthood. He also kneels to wash the feet of His disciples, teaching us that love is expressed in humble service. We are invited to stay with Him in prayer, just as He asked His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. Soon aſter the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, we will process to the Holy Cross hall where we will keep company with Jesus. The parish hall will be open for prayer and Adoration until midnight. Good Friday brings us to the foot of the Cross. The solemn celebraꢀon of the Lord’s Passion will be held at 3 p.m. during which we will read the Passion Narraꢀve according to John who helps us contemplate the depth of Christ’s love, a love willing to suffer and die for each one of us. Moved by this greatest sacrifice of Jesus, we will then venerate the Holy Cross. In the Cross we do not see defeat but, rather, the very instrument of our salvation. Our teens will reenact the Stations of the Cross at 7 p.m. in the church. Then comes the stillness of Holy Saturday, a day of waiting, silence, and hope. It reminds us that even in moments when God seems absent, He is at work in ways we cannot yet see. Finally, we arrive at the great celebraꢀon of the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday. Darkness gives way to light, death to life. Christ is risen! This is not just an event of the past; it is the living truth that transforms our lives today. The Resurrection assures us that no suffering, no sin, no darkness has the final word. As a parish family, I invite you to fully enter into these sacred days. Come and pray. Come and walk with Christ. Allow these liturgies to renew your faith, rekindle your hope, and deepen your love. Wishing you a blessed and grace-filled Holy Week! With love, Fr. John

Fifth Sunday of Lent, March 22, 2026

March 24, 2026
Dear friends, Our pilgrimage to Italy was a remarkably enriching experience, celebrating Masses at some of the most beautiful and ancient churches and visiting so many holy sites. We remembered each of you during this sacred year of our silver jubilee. Among the many highlights was viewing the display of the mortal remains of St. Francis of Assisi in commemoration of the 800 years since his passing. What a blessing to be there and to pray for the intercession of this humble giant of a saint. Our visit to the place of Padre Pio reminded me of the 40 Hours Adoration we hosted at SJE from 19 to 21 March. Padre Pio’s love for Eucharistic Adoration was profound, famously stating that "a thousand years of enjoying human glory is not worth even an hour spent sweetly communing with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.” He urged the faithful to "run to the feet of Jesus" to find peace. Thank you to all who regularly spend time with Jesus in adoration. Congratulations to Denise and Jim Uram, recipients of the Family of the Month award for March 2026. Their unassuming manner of doing so much for our community is remarkable. Thank you, Jim and Denise, for your active participation in making our community a family. Our Lenten Reconciliation Service will be held on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Many priests from our deanery will be available for us to experience the mercy of God in this sacrament. Please make time for this wonderful opportunity. I’d like to thank Bishop John Noonan for his ministry to the Diocese of Orlando and communicate to you that he has offered his resignation, as is expected of all bishops upon reaching the age of 75. Here is an excerpt of what he wrote on 26 February, his birthday: “Today is my 75th birthday, and according to Canon 401 §1, I wrote a letter to our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, offering my retirement. I have served you, God’s holy people, as bishop of the Diocese of Orlando since December 2010, and as auxiliary in Miami since 2005. I pray rejoicing to God for my priestly ministry since the Sacrament of Holy Orders was conferred upon me in 1983, and I ask always for His blessing to lead His people that the bond of heaven flourish upon this earth. Even though I have sent my letter to our Holy Father as prescribed by Canon Law, the appointment of a successor may take time. In the Province of Miami, there are two other bishops last year who submitted their letters of retirement, and they also await word from the Holy See… Jesus asks us to pray for one another unceasingly. This is what I would ask of each one of you. Pray for one another. Pray for me, God’s humble servant, as I pray for you. Pray for our Holy Father as he discerns who will be appointed the next bishop of the Diocese of Orlando. Do not ponder what the next bishop can do for you; rather, ponder how you can serve God and assist the bishop and all clergy in their ministry. None of us are present on this earth to only get something from someone. We are invited, through the Sacrament of Baptism, and our partaking in receiving Jesus the Eucharist, to serve one another; not to expect to be served… Each one has been chosen, called, and sent as servants of the faith. During this season of Lent, as we prepare our heart to suffer the Cross with Jesus, may we come to know the gift of healing through His forgiveness that we are given eternal life. Through prayer, word and deed, may we forgive one another that His love flourishes the land. May a clean heart be the path of our pilgrimage to heaven.” We will keep him in our prayers until a successor is appointed. As we journey deeper into Lent, the readings for this Fifth Sunday (Year A) speak of death and rising, of graves and new land, and of weeping and rejoicing. In the story of raising Lazarus from the tomb, John unveils God's triumphant power over death, inviting us to trust in Christ's promise: "I am the resurrection and the life." Through Ezekiel's vision, Paul's exhortation, and John's account of Lazarus, we hear God's call to rise from the "graves" of sin and despair. The responsorial psalm echoes our Lenten plea as the psalmist cries out: "Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice!" Might we, like Lazarus, keep our eyes, our ears, and our hearts open to Jesus’ call to come out of our “graves.” Let us reflect with the Elect as they celebrate the Scrutinies during these weeks of Lent on these questions: Do we believe Jesus can unbind our graves of doubt, addiction, or grief? Can we "come out" of our self-imposed prisons and graves through confession, prayer, and fasting, preparing for Easter’s Paschal Mystery? Our Lord has the power to set us free just as he did for Lazarus when he proclaimed, “Untie him, and let him go." Have a joyful Lent! With love, Fr. John

Fourth Sunday of Lent, March 15, 2026

March 18, 2026
Dear friends, In my March monthly update, I wrote something that I would like to share again with all: The season of Lent has begun, and the entire month of March is going to lead us further into its mysteries. I can already see beautiful things happening in both our families and our parish. We are more loving toward one another, there is less complaining, we are thirsting more for God, and have even grown to embrace fasting, prayer, and almsgiving like the people of Nineveh. If you meet someone who does not fit the description of that which is happening in our parish. be patient and enduringly kind. You may be their only encounter with someone who has shown them the love of Christ. For our Tuesdays of Lent series, we have planned a movie night at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, 17 March. “David” is an animated movie and will be appropriate for all ages. There will be crafts, and we will be serving hotdogs and popcorn. Thanks to Justin and Amanda Libak for organizing this event, a perfect way to celebrate St. Patrick’s day as a family at St. John’s. We will honor and celebrate the feast of St. Joseph on 19 March with Mass at 5:30 p.m. Immediately following, we will begin a second 40 Hours Adoration at 6 p.m. and end at 10 a.m. on Saturday, 21 March, with a Mass. I urge all of you to try to make one hour during any of these 40 hours, a uniquely powerful privilege for Catholics to experience heaven on earth before the Blessed Sacrament. St. Peter Julian Eymard said this about the importance of Adoration of the Holy Eucharist: “Look upon the hour of adoration assigned to you as an hour in paradise. Go to your adoration as one would to heaven, to the divine banquet. You will then long for that hour and hail it with joy. Take delight in fostering a longing for it in your heart. Tell yourself, ‘In four hours, in two hours, in one hour, our Lord will give me an audience of grace and love. He has invited me; he is waiting for me; he is longing for me.’” These 40 hours will be a great way to pray for an end to war, for the safety of our military personnel, and for the well-being of people everywhere, especially in the Middle East. Archbishop Paul Coakley, President of the USCCB, invites us to spend on hour in Adoration praying for peace and for the healing of society. He says, “Many people today feel powerless in the face of violence, injustice, and social unrest. To those who feel this way, I wish to say clearly: your faithfulness matters. Your prayers matter. Your acts of love and works of justice matter.” For some time now, I have been thinking of our Catholic brothers and sisters who have left the Church for whatever reasons. My heart aches for them, and yours should, too, I have formed a team with Shamir Patel as its lead to serve this new ministry that will begin to invite those who have left the Church to come back. More details to follow. On this Fourth Sunday of Lent, also known as “Laetare Sunday,” we are called to REJOICE midway through our Lenten journey! The Church invites us to lift our hearts with joy, symbolized by the rose-colored vestments we wear. As the liturgies remind us, Lent prepares us for Easter's radiant Paschal Mystery, calling us to conversion and light. In the gospel, we are treated to another long passage about the healing of the man blind from birth, following which Jesus declares, "While I am in the world, I am the light of the world" (Jn 9:5). This miracle reveals God's work in human suffering, not as punishment but for divine glory. The once blind man progresses from physical sight to faith, boldly proclaiming, "I do believe, Lord," and then he worshipped Jesus (Jn 9:38). Yet, the Pharisees, self-assured in their "vision," remain spiritually blind: "Your sin remains" (Jn 9:41). Let this Laetare joy call us to regain our sight to see in Jesus our Savior. Let us shed spiritual blindness, embrace mercy, and walk in Christ's light toward Easter. Have a joyful Lent With love, Fr. John

Third Sunday of Lent, March 8, 2026

March 8, 2026
Dear friends, Our Lenten Mission this year reminded us to trust God in all things and to always give him due honor. Fr. Jim powerfully emphasized that the Eucharist is the foundation of our Catholic faith. When we come to church to worship him, we should come with utmost reverence, especially when receiving the Eucharist. He shared that while distributing Communion during one of our weekend Masses, someone came up to receive the Holy Eucharist with chewing gum in the mouth. This is certainly most disrespectful and unbecoming of who we are. I thought I would take this occasion to reflect together about what is expected of us. Do you remember the practice of fasting before receiving the Eucharist? The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1387) teaches that to prepare for the Eucharist, the faithful should observe the required fast, which Canon Law defines as abstaining from food and drink (except water and medicine) for at least one hour before Holy Communion. This practice prepares the heart and demonstrates reverence. Are there exceptions to this rule? Of course, especially when you are ill or aged. Interestingly, there is a concession given to priests who have to celebrate more than one Mass. In Canon No. 919, Canon Law states: "1. One who is to receive the Most Holy Eucharist is to abstain from any food or drink, with the exception only of water and medicine, for at least the period of one hour before Holy Communion. "2. A priest who celebrates the Most Holy Eucharist two or three times on the same day may take something before the second or third celebration even if the period of one hour does not intervene. "3. Those who are advanced in age or who suffer from any infirmity, as well as those who take care of them, can receive the Most Holy Eucharist even if they have taken something during the previous hour." I thank you in advance for doing your best to honor the sacredness of this space. Please do not chew anything during Mass or bring any drinks into the church, barring some water if absolutely necessary. You can always walk to the fountain in the narthex if you need to drink. In just one weekend, our women’s Emmaus Retreat filled to capacity, with several on a waitlist. Let us pray for both the presenters and those who will be attending, for the change it will bring to the life of our parish family. The Third Sunday of Lent draws our attention to one of the most fascinating encounters of Jesus when he meets the Samaritan woman at the well. We see how John constructs that story so beautifully to capture the heart of our Good Shepherd who goes in search of this woman. John builds up expectations as Jesus enters into deeper conversation with the individual he encounters in an attempt to lead her to discover the truth of his divinity. There is a perfect unfolding of who Jesus is and who the woman becomes. The Samaritan woman grows in her understanding of Jesus from being just a stranger asking for water to ultimately believing in him as the Messiah, even bringing other people to believe in him. Let us try to be more like the Samaritan who goes and proclaims the truth about Jesus Christ and wins them over to him. Please keep me and those going with me to Italy on our pilgrimage in your prayers. Among the holy sites we will be visiting is St. Francis’ mortal remains. This is the first time in 800 years that they will be on display for viewing. Some of us will also have an opportunity to see the mosaic work that is being done there. Stations of the Cross are held every day at 6 p.m. in the Grotto. On Fridays during Lent, we will host a special Stations of the Cross led by our various ministry teams, following which there will be soup supper in the parish hall. On Tuesday of this week at 7 p.m., we will host a Taize prayer service. Please join us for an amazing evening of meditation and chant.  Have a joyful Lent! With love, Fr. John

Second Sunday of Lent, March 1, 2026

March 2, 2026
Dear friends, The men and women of our parish who recently attended the Christ Renews His Parish retreats enjoyed time to not only grow close to one another but also to more fully understand the significance of the Holy Eucharist as our source and summit. I am immensely grateful to those who responded to our invitation as well as to those who hosted it and all who labored in love behind the scenes. This year, we are blessed to accompany our many catechumens and candidates. It is our responsibility to pray for them and encourage them on their journey. Last Saturday, 18 catechumens celebrated the Rite of Sending during the 4:30 p.m. Mass. On Sunday, they attended the Rite of Election at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando and were formally accepted by Bishop John Noonan. Let us remember to accompany through prayer our catechumens and candidates who are preparing to embrace the Catholic faith during the Easter Vigil. This weekend, we will have the opportunity to welcome Fr. Jim Sichko, who is a Missionary of Mercy from the Diocese of Lexington, KY. He offered our Advent Mission in 2024 and is now here to offer our Lenten Mission in 2026. Please plan to attend each evening at 7 p.m., March 1 through 3 (Sunday through Tuesday). Stations of the Cross are held every day at 6 p.m. in the Grotto. On Fridays during Lent, we will host a special Stations of the Cross led by our various ministry teams, following which there will be soup supper in the parish hall. I am grateful to Lulu Farrell for so eloquently presenting her life’s journey last weekend and how she discovered St. John’s, now in the process of becoming Catholic. She reminded us of the many ways in which our participation in Our Catholic Appeal (OCA) 2026 enables the Diocese of Orlando to serve both the many ministries within the diocese as well as those in need. I am profoundly grateful to the many who have already responded, and I urge those who have not yet pledged or contributed to please consider doing so to support our diocesan efforts. Your gifts directly impact our parish and its continued growth. On this Second Sunday of Lent, the readings invite us to embrace God's transformative call — much like Abraham's obedient departure from the familiar — culminating in the radiant glory of Christ's Transfiguration. This is a season to trust in divine faithfulness amid trials, drawing strength from the Gospel's promise of eternal life. During Lent, we fast, pray, and give alms not by our strength but conformed to Christ's gaze of mercy, turning from harmful pleasures to celebrate His Passion. Like Abraham, let us readily respond to God's whisper: leave distractions, ascend in prayer, and listen to my Beloved Son. As we journey through Lent, let us pray that we might learn from Abraham's faith and the disciples' awe and, thus, be delivered from fear and shine with Jesus’ glory.  Have a joyful Lent! With love, Fr. John

First Sunday of Lent, February 22, 2026

February 23, 2026
Dear friends, This weekend, we celebrate the First Sunday of Lent. It is the time in our liturgical year when we make a special effort to draw closer to God and all his purposes. It is a sacred time when we are called to discard or eliminate from our lives those things that hold us back from a deeper and more intimate relationship with God, a time to embrace the promise of conversion and a change of heart through the time-honored practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Lent is a time for transformation, helping us become the saints we are all called to be. We meet Christ in the desert, a time of deprivation in seeking total communion with the Father. Many holy men and women have embraced his fast of 40 days and 40 nights in an act of solidarity, reminded by Mother Church of our need for repentance and renewal as we recall Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection. St. Ignatius of Antioch, captures fasting's transformative power: "My love has been crucified and there is no longer in me the flame that desires material things." Written on his way to martyrdom, these words from Ignatius's Letter to the Romans (VII, 2) reveal fasting as a crucifixion of self-love and a kindling of love for Christ alone. Ignatius urges us to embrace our sojourn in the desert not as deprivation but as a forge for spiritual freedom. There will be many challenges to our faith, but we are called to be people with persevering hope. During this sacred time, it is also appropriate that we remember to accompany through prayer our catechumens and candidates who are preparing to embrace the Catholic faith during the Easter Vigil. On the First Sunday of Lent, we celebrate the Rite of Sending during which our catechumens will sign the Book of Elect at the Saturday 4:30 p.m. Mass. This act marks the final approval from our community of these, our brothers and sisters, who are now deemed ready to meet the bishop for the Rite of Election. Please remember to keep free every Tuesday of Lent for a special event that will aid us in our Lenten observance. This coming Tuesday, 24 February, we will offer Behold the Lamb of God, spending an hour in praise and worship of our Lord from 7 to 8 p.m. Every Friday of Lent is special with Stations of the Cross at the Grotto at 6 p.m., a soup supper served by our various ministries. Our Lenten Mission will be presented by Fr. Jim Sichko on 1-3 March (Sunday through Tuesday) at 7 p.m. Our Catholic Appeal (OCA) 2026: Last weekend, we launched Our Catholic Appeal, joining Bishop Noonan with his reflection on the theme, "Inspired by the Spirit," in which he invited us to reflect on how the Holy Spirit empowers us to be God’s light in Central Florida: “Our Catholic Appeal offers a visible occasion to present the heart of God to His people. The ministries supported by Our Catholic Appeal keep us steady on our pebbled path, that we might ignore the distractions blinding us to God. These ministries infuse us with the fire of the Holy Spirit to be God’s light where His light is unknown or hidden from view.” I am profoundly grateful to the many who have already responded, and I urge those who have not yet pledged or contributed to please consider doing so to support our diocese in its efforts to serve so many ministries and parishes. St. John’s has received much support from the diocese throughout our incredible growth. Your gifts directly impact our parish by providing clergy and leadership support, professional services such as fiscal management, human resources, and facility maintenance expertise that ensure our parish remains a safe and well-run home for all, faith formation (resources for our catechists and lay leaders to better form our children and adults in the faith), and protection for the vulnerable (specialized training for Safe Environment protocols that protect our children and vulnerable adults during every parish event).  Have a joyful Lent! With love, Fr. John

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, February 15, 2026

February 14, 2026
Dear friends, Lent is here! We begin this holy season with Ash Wednesday on 18 February. To help everyone participate — especially those heading to school or work — we will celebrate four Masses to better accommodate your schedules: 7:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m., 12:05 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. Lent is a sacred, forty−day journey of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving modeled after Jesus’ time in the desert. It is a season given to us by the Church to slow down, refocus, and prepare our hearts for the joy and victory of the Resurrection at Easter. On Ash Wednesday, the imposition of ashes in the form of a cross marks the beginning of that journey. The ashes are a visible sign of repentance and humility, and they remind us of our human frailty as we hear the solemn words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” The ashes are not a sign of despair but, rather, a sign of hope; the cross traced on our foreheads reminds us that we belong to Christ and that, through repentance and renewal, we walk toward Easter with confidence and joy. Let us begin this Lenten journey together. The Sixth Sunday readings invite us to embrace our freedom to choose life and our fidelity to God's law. Sirach reminds us, "Before each person are life and death, and whichever one chooses will be given" (Sir 15:17), while the psalmist prays for a heart steadfast in God's statutes. St. Paul reveals God's hidden wisdom through the Spirit, and Jesus fulfills the law, calling us to a righteousness surpassing externals, guarding our hearts from anger, lust, and false oaths: “Let your word be ‘Yes, Yes’ or ‘No, No’" (Mt 5:37). May we live this deeper holiness in our daily choices. Congratulations to the recipients of the Family of the Month Award — Jesse, Sonia and Rey Santiago — for your amazing service to our parish family. May you continue your selfless commitment to the family of St. John’s! Our Catholic Appeal 2026: This weekend, our parish will join with the entire Diocese of Orlando to launch the annual Our Catholic Appeal (OCA). This year’s theme, "Inspired by the Spirit," calls us to reflect on how the Holy Spirit empowers us to be God’s light in Central Florida. While we often see the vibrancy of life within our own community, many of our vital ministries are made possible through the collective support of the diocese. Your gifts to OCA directly impact our parish by providing clergy and leadership support, professional services such as fiscal management, human resources, and facility maintenance expertise that ensure our parish remains a safe and well−run home for all, faith formation (resources for our catechists and lay leaders to better form our children and adults in the faith), and protection for the vulnerable (specialized training for Safe Environment protocols that protect our children and vulnerable adults during every parish event). Beyond our parish borders, your generosity fuels Catholic Charities of Central Florida, providing food, medical care, and housing to our neighbors in need as well as support for our Sister Diocese in San Juan de la Maguana. We invite you to prayerfully consider your gift during the Masses this weekend when making your pledge or contributing online through the Diocese of Orlando Giving Portal. Whether through a single gift or a monthly pledge, your participation will help us reach our parish goal for this year ($453,269) and continue the work of Christ in our community. “Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father” (Mt 5:16). Have a blessed week! With love, Fr. John

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, February 8, 2026

February 13, 2026
Dear friends, God must surely have a wonderful sense of humor. Last Sunday’s frigid weather — so unusual for us Floridians — turned out to be an unexpected blessing for our International Festival. In the Gospel, we were given a prescription for blessedness: to be poor in spirit. The poor in spirit are those who know their need for God, and we lived that truth so beautifully that day. As we began the festival, there was a prayer on our lips: “Lord, we have done all we can. The rest is in your hands. We need you.” And God responded. What unfolded was a joyful, grace−filled celebration. I am immensely grateful to you, my dear families of St. John’s, for your warmth, generosity, commitment, and love for God and for our community. Thank you for the sacrifices you made to showcase how, in God’s mercy, people from different continents and cultures have come together as one. Our parish truly reflects the Gospel preached to the ends of the earth. This year’s Silver Jubilee International Festival was centered on a beautiful theme: “United in Christ, Webbed in Love.” Everything we experienced gave life to that theme — the reverent liturgy, the sharing of delicious food, and the stunning performances that revealed the richness of our many talents and traditions. I am deeply grateful to Janet Owens who chaired the festival committee with remarkable dedication and vision. Beginning over a year ago, she planned every detail with care and perseverance, guiding the entire effort to a wonderful finish. My sincere thanks also go to all of our committee chairs and the many volunteers who worked tirelessly across so many areas: liturgy, banners, food, entertainment, kitchen crew, media/video, baskets, logistics and traffic, information and administration, photography, bar, Boy Scouts, and all our liturgical ministries. Each of you is truly a blessing to our parish. I am especially grateful to Beth Lowry, our Business Manager, who graciously coordinated with all the committees to ensure everything moved seamlessly. Many of you gave long hours, personal resources, and your God−given talents with generous hearts living out, almost recklessly, what it means to be one in Christ, webbed in love. At the end of the festival, the beauty of what we shared was captured perfectly in a single, heartfelt observation. Helen Buchanan, one of our beloved octogenarians, said, “If only our world could have a slice of what we experienced today.” Indeed, for a moment, we glimpsed the kingdom of God among us. Thank you for braving the cold to come and worship the Lord — no small sacrifice for Floridians! For the first time, I had to dig out my long coat from my days at Notre Dame and Vermont, never imagining I would need it here. And for the first time since moving into our church in 2018, we turned on the heat! Blessed indeed are the people chosen to be God’s own. Next weekend, we will have the opportunity to hear from our beloved Bishop John Noonan as he shares how the diocese continues to be a blessing to so many. You will also have the opportunity to respond to his appeal through this year’s Our Catholic Appeal (OCA). Thank you, as always, for your generous support of our diocese. This weekend, we also enter more deeply into Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. He tells his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth … You are the light of the world.” Our faith is not meant to be hidden or kept private. Like salt, we are called to bring flavor, preserve goodness, and inspire hope. Like light, we are meant to shine not for our own glory but so that others may see God’s love through us. May our kindness, honesty, and compassion this week give glory to our Father in heaven. Have a blessed week. With love, Fr. John

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, February 1, 2026

February 13, 2026
Dear friends, Reflecting on our jubilee year and recent parish events, I wonder if we, a growing community of faith−filled people, realize how truly blessed we are. Do we allow ourselves to pause now and again to appreciate what we do, how we do, for whom we do, and why we do? In the busy−ness of our lives, it’s easy to take for granted the beauty of our Catholic faith, the wisdom of our Church, and the diversity of the people who embody it. I often feel that many of us simply go through the motions but miss the beauty of our liturgies. Ever grateful to be part of this thriving and vibrant parish, I am always amazed by what our many visitors experience and their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude. As an example, I wish to share with you something written by one of our visitors at last Sunday’s Mass, the 3rd Sunday, celebrated as Sunday of the Word. Her name is Kelly, and this is what she wrote: “Father John: I attended Mass this past Sunday with my dear friend, Gina Campbell, in memory of her mother, Arlene Harrington. Gina and Kevin were so kind to host me for a few days while I was here visiting. As I told you when I left Mass, I was so encouraged that the message that day was to read the Bible. I don’t think that was a coincidence. As a Christian I believe everything is divinely planned. I had not attended Catholic Church for many years even thought I was raised in a devoutly Catholic home and both my parents not only brought us to Church every Sunday but they modeled their faith daily. It has just been in the past four years I joined a church near my home that focuses on bible study. After hearing your service, I’m looking forward to going back to the Catholic Mass. Unfortunately, my church (St. Catherine) was closed and all three consolidated into one church in downtown Portsmouth…. Thank you, Father. Kelly.” I pass along her thanks to all of you for living out your faith. Fr. Martin and I are extremely grateful to be part of this family of St. John’s. During phase 1 of our Mosaic construction project (begun on 21 January), we will be nomads. Daily Masses are held in the Fr. Patrick Peyton Room at 8 a.m., with adoration in Room 9 of the parish center, same hours as before. Weekend Masses will continue to be held in the church. Thank you for enduring this inconvenience until just before Palm Sunday. On this 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A, we hear from Matthew’s gospel, chapter 5, which begins with Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount. In the Beatitudes, Jesus enumerates a series of fundamental principles/attitudes that bring forth blessedness and offer the way to a good life. The Beatitudes are considered the "New Law" that fulfills and completes the promises of the Old Testament; they depict the character of Jesus, emphasizing simplicity and humility, meekness and spiritual poverty as essential attitudes of a blessed person. The Beatitudes serve as a “road map” for living as disciples of Jesus, challenging the believer to embrace values opposite to worldly successes. Pope Benedict XVI described the Beatitudes (Matthew 5) as a "veiled interior biography of Jesus," representing a "new program of life" that translates the Cross and Resurrection into daily discipleship. He viewed them as a countercultural path to true happiness that frees people from the world's false values. Let us pray that we, as people of St. John’s, might embrace the gentleness of Jesus as we live out our blessedness. On 1 February, we celebrate our biannual International Festival, a beautiful expression of Jesus’ parting command to his disciples to carry the Good News of the Gospel to all corners of the earth. This weekend, you will see a lived reality of this vision — people from all corners of the earth professing our one, catholic, and apostolic faith. Though our forecast predicts cold weather, we can bring warmth and love by gathering to celebrate with the theme, “United in Christ, Webbed in Love.” So, plan to pull out the warm clothes you rarely have the opportunity to wear in Florida, and bring your family and friends to celebrate our brotherhood and sisterhood in Christ. The team has worked for over a year to make this happen, and there will be much joy on that day, first to be shared at the Eucharistic Table and then with bountiful food from so many different cultures. We will also enjoy lively song and dance. What a blessing it will be to rejoice together as an amazing community of believers. In honor of St. Blaise, we shall have a Blessing of the Throats after every Mass! Have a blessed week! With love, Fr. John
More Posts