This is a question that resounds in the Gospel. We have the apostles answering with the things they have heard from others. Then Jesus follows with another question, "But who do you say that I am?" and the one that speaks is Peter. If we have been attentive in the previous Sunday readings, Peter has been very outspoken. Only sometimes saying the right thing, and yet being the first one. In this Gospel Reading, he does not make an exception. However, if we pay attention, the disciples can say what others have said about Jesus, but only Peter expresses his faith.

Brothers and Sisters,

This week we are celebrating our Patron Feast. This week we have special readings that express the life of Saint Rose of Lima and her life as a holy woman that cared for people experiencing poverty of her time. The reading of the book of Sirach gives us an introduction to the life of Holiness.

Humility and greatness come together; it might sound like two polar words. However, if we look at the life of Saint Rose of Lima, it shows that these two words come to express the life of a Saint. Brothers and Sisters, let us come together and celebrate the life of this saint and learn from Saint Rose.

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Peace.

In the Gospel reading, we see an instance in which those who follow Jesus were afraid. That also should make us ponder the relationship of those who followed Jesus in their time; they were insecure. We could also say that even in our time, we are not different from those disciples. We struggle to follow and become afraid or discouraged in times of trouble.

Saint Rose of Lima issued a Request for Qualifications for two projects: Marian Center renovation and Athletic Field Relocation. Interested firms qualified to provide comprehensive, professional services for these projects should contact Wayne J. Oveman at wjoverman@dtkjllc.com for a copy of the Request for Qualifications. Submittal date is August 25, 2023.

Thank you to all who have pledged and/or donated to the Capital Campaign. We are so grateful to the parishioners, ushers and Knights of Columbus that volunteered and assisted with the distribution and collection of pledge cards during Commitment Weekend. While this first phase of the campaign has come to a close, please remember that prayers, pledges and donations are still needed to help us reach, and hopefully surpass our goal.

Dear Fellow Disciples, peace.

According to the dictionary definition, to be transfigured is to “transform into something more beautiful or elevated.” This is what we see happening in Matthew’s Gospel today: Jesus takes his closest disciples up the mountain and there he is transformed – he is transfigured – before them. "His face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light”.