Cathedral Homilies - September 15 (Fr. Viel)

Summary

In this reflective sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience from seminary, highlighting the challenges faced by a fellow seminarian and the importance of determination and inner strength. Drawing from the Scripture, particularly the Book of Isaiah and the Gospel of Mark, the message emphasizes the support and guidance of God in overcoming life's difficulties. The sermon also touches on the significance of faith with works, encouraging believers to persevere through hardships with the knowledge that God is their companion and support.

Takeaways

• 🙏 The speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the gathering of the faithful and acknowledges the blessings received.
• 📚 A seminary experience is shared, highlighting the challenges faced by those studying Christology and the personal growth that comes from such studies.
• 🔄 The speaker reflects on being asked to take over responsibilities, symbolizing the cycle of facing and overcoming difficulties.
• 💪 The message of determination and inner strength is emphasized, inspired by the readings from the Book of Isaiah and the life of Jesus.
• 📖 The prophecy of Isaiah is discussed, particularly focusing on Jesus' acceptance of his suffering and the support he found in God.
• 🗣 Jesus' openness about his upcoming suffering and death, as told in the Gospel of Mark, is mentioned to illustrate his resolve.
• 🤔 The speaker prompts the audience to consider the source of Jesus' and others' determination and strength in the face of adversity.
• 🙌 The importance of faith and works is highlighted, suggesting that faith is not just belief but also action and perseverance.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The community is encouraged to support each other, drawing strength from the collective belief in God's presence and assistance.
• 🕊 The Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows is mentioned, with a reflection on Mary's strength and the promise of God's companionship through life's trials.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the reflection shared in the transcript?

The main theme of the reflection is the importance of determination and inner strength in facing life's difficulties, inspired by the teachings and experiences of Jesus and the prophet Isaiah.

Why is Christology described as a difficult subject in the seminary?

Christology is described as a difficult subject because it involves deep personal and psychospiritual processing, and the seminarians are expected to have already undergone significant personal growth and understanding of Jesus Christ.

What does the speaker suggest is the secret to Jesus' determination and strength in facing his passion?

The speaker suggests that Jesus' determination and strength come from his faith and trust in God, as stated in the prophecy of Isaiah, where Jesus knows that God is his help and will not be put to shame.

How does the speaker relate the difficulties faced by Jesus to the challenges in everyday life?

The speaker relates the difficulties faced by Jesus to everyday life by emphasizing that life is inherently filled with crosses and challenges, and that the same determination and strength Jesus exhibited can be found within individuals through their faith in God.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Faith with works' mentioned in the transcript?

The phrase 'Faith with works' signifies the belief that faith is not just about believing but also about taking action and demonstrating one's faith through deeds, as exemplified by Jesus and the challenges he faced.

Why does the speaker mention the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows in the context of the reflection?

The speaker mentions the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows to draw a parallel between the suffering of Mary standing at the cross of her son and the personal sufferings and challenges that individuals face in their lives.

What is the 'stabat mater' and how does it relate to the reflection?

The 'stabat mater' is a medieval hymn that describes the suffering of Mary as she stands at the foot of the cross. It relates to the reflection as it serves as an inspiration to face difficulties with the same determination and faith that Mary had.

How does the speaker encourage the congregation to view their struggles?

The speaker encourages the congregation to view their struggles as opportunities to demonstrate their faith and reliance on God, much like Jesus and Mary faced their challenges with determination and trust in God's support.

What is the message conveyed by the speaker about facing life's difficulties?

The message conveyed is that despite the hardships and difficulties in life, one can find the strength and determination to face them by having faith in God's presence and support.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of having God as a companion in life?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of having God as a companion in life to provide comfort, strength, and determination in the face of life's challenges, as it is through this companionship that individuals find the courage to persevere.