💖 HOMILY - SEPTEMBER 15 💖

First Reading - 1 Timothy 2:1-8 

Gospel - John 19:25-27 (Proper to the memorial)

One of the deepest desires of the human heart is to belong — to know that we are not alone, that we are cared for, and that our lives matter. Today’s readings remind us that in Christ, we have not only a Savior but also a family. At the foot of the Cross, a new bond is forged: we are entrusted to Mary, and Mary is entrusted to us, making her the mother of all believers.

In the first reading, Paul exhorts us to pray for everyone, for rulers and leaders, for all people in every place. Prayer unites us, it expands our hearts beyond selfish concerns, and it builds bridges of peace. At its core, prayer reminds us that we are part of one family under God, called to intercede for one another with love.

In the Gospel, we are taken to Calvary. There, standing by the Cross, is Mary, sharing in her Son’s suffering with unfailing faith. In His final moments, Jesus entrusts her to John and John to her: “Behold your mother… Behold your son.” In that moment, Mary becomes our mother too, given to us as a gift of love. She teaches us how to stand firm in faith, even in suffering, and how to embrace one another as true brothers and sisters in Christ.

Dear friends, through Christ’s sacrifice, we are made one family, bound together by prayer, by love, and by the maternal care of Mary. This is not just a comfort; it is also a mission. We are called to pray for one another, to support each other, and to build a community that reflects God’s love.

So let us ask ourselves: Do I see others as brothers and sisters in Christ? Do I pray not only for my needs but for the needs of the world? And do I turn to Mary, my Mother, for guidance and strength in following Jesus more closely?

May we live as true members of God’s family, united in prayer, strengthened by Mary’s intercession, and always rooted in the love of Christ who makes us one.