In many big cities, and even along some Buffalo streets, we often see people with homemade signs declaring they are “homeless” and asking for assistance. I often observe most people in their cars looking straight ahead as if they don’t even see the person begging on their left or right. One can observe the same action of others while walking to the subway in most big cities. The Prophet Amos declares: “Woe to the complacent in Zion” Amos 6:1. In the story that Jesus tells recorded in our Gospel text for this weekend, the rich man is not condemned because committed some great act of sin but that he was guilty of an act of omission. Though he knew the beggar by name, during his lifetime “Lazarus” was invisible to him. Even in death he pulls rank and privilege insisting that Abraham order Lazarus to dip his finger in water and touch this man’s tongue to cool and refresh him. One of the most powerful principles of Catholic Social Teaching is that of Solidarity which involves “a love for all peoples that transcends national, racial, ethnic, economic, and ideological differences. It respects the needs of others and the common good in an interdependent world.” With the rise of so many forms of media, we can be made aware of most conflicts and situations around the world. If we surrender to the temptation to obtain our news from only one source, we may buy into their vision of what is most important. Let us remain informed of what is happening on the Global stage and identify with, advocate for and be part of the Lord’s outreach to the many in need around the world. May we not be guilty of being too “complacent” but rather active and purposeful participants in our world community.
A SPECIAL GUEST will be welcomed by each of our three sister parish communities this weekend. At Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary we welcome Mr. Ryan Keating; at St. Martin de Porres we welcome Mr. Michael Daum; and at St. Lawrence we welcome Mr. Justin Rowan and Denning Achidi. They are all seminarians studying at Christ the King Seminary and were invited as our guests to break open God’s Word and speak about our support for Christ the King and all the good work the seminary does in forming leaders for our Church.
ST. MARTIN DE PORRES GOSPEL CHOIR will celebrate their Annual Anniversary Gospel Choir Concert on Sunday, October 9th beginning at 5:00PM. St. Martin de Porres is located at 555 Northampton Street in Buffalo. The cost of tickets for the concert remains: $5 each. Come and share in the Joy of the Lord!