Adult Faith Formation, January 27 -- Thomistic Ethics, Session 2 -- The Seven Capital Sins

 Following the approach of Fr Basil Cole, op in "Angelic Virtues, Demonic Vices", we now begin the discussion of the seven capital vices and see which "daughter vices" flow from the capital sins.

Handout is below.

Adult Faith Formation, January 20 -- Thomistic Ethics, Session 1 - Introduction and Happiness

 As we begin a new Adult Faith Formation series, we turn to the Thomistic approach to ethics and morality. Following a book by Fr Basil Cole, op (Angelic Vices and Demonic Virtues), we look to St Thomas' practical advice for growing in virtue and overcoming vice.

Handout is below.

Sunday Sermon, January 18th -- Christ is the Minister of Baptism

 We consider St Augustine's sermon on the words of St John the Baptist - "I did not know him."  The Baptist clearly knew who Jesus was, and that he is Messiah and God - but what he learned was that Jesus is always the minister of baptism. Whoever baptizes, it is always Christ who baptizes - and this is why the power of the sacraments is not determined by the holiness of the particular human minister.

Listen online [here]!  

Sunday Sermon, January 11th -- Why We Celebrate the Baptism of the Lord at Christmas Time

 The feast of our Lord's baptism concludes the official liturgical Christmas season.  Furthermore, Jesus' baptism has always been associated with the Epiphany to the Magi.  Why is this event (from 30 years later in our Lord's life) connected so closely to Christmas?

We give a few of the many reasons:  Jesus' baptism is a second Epiphany and actually happened on the same day (January 6th) thirty years later; Jesus was born at Christmas so that we might be reborn in baptism; and our baptism unites us to the Lord in such a way that the mysteries of his life are lived within us each year.

Listen online [here]!

Sunday Sermon, January 4th - The Meaning of the Gifts of the Magi

 The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh show the faith of the magi in Jesus as King, God, and Priest (and victim to be offered in sacrifice).

We also speak of an interesting poem by T.S. Eliot - Journey of the Magi. (Posted below)

Listen online [here]!