Dear Parishioners and Friends,

There is life after death. Death is not the end but a door to something more. The gospel we read today shows us that there is one of two eternal destinations beyond that door.

As you may know, God is full of surprises! He surprised me two years ago when I was assigned to St. Francis Xavier parish. Now, He has surprised me again as I have been assigned to the Sacred Heart Jesuit Center in Los Gatos, California.

The gospel reading for today is very familiar to us. It is the story of the Prodigal Son. The late Fr. Henri Nouwen (1932-1996) wrote a renowned book, "The Return of the Prodigal Son."

On the first Monday of September, the U.S. observes Labor Day, a celebration of the strength and contributions of the nation’s work force. The holiday goes back many years. Congress passed an act establishing it in 1894, and it was promoted by labor unions as they grew in power.

Recently I met with my Pastoral Council to discuss how we will move forward this Fall following up on the Synod feedback we got from many of you in the Spring. More than a few commented on the fact that they did not really expect anything to come from their sharing of cares and concerns. It is for this reason that I feel it is important that we make every effort to follow up on the suggestions and comments made.

In today’s gospel Jesus doesn’t sound anything like himself! The Jesus we know and love usually talks about love, peace, kindness and mercy. At the Last Supper, Jesus said that he was giving his peace to his disciples, a peace that the world could not give and that no one could take away. That is still the essence of Jesus.

The gospel reading from Luke quoting Jesus: “Do not be afraid. Gird your loins. Sell your goods and give generously to those in need. Don your traveling clothes; keep the porch light on; stay by the door awaiting your Master’s return.”