Saints Peter And Paul Pray For Us
June 23, 2025
Do something.
A priest for 45 years. That is something to celebrate, and on Saturday we did.
About 400 people came to celebrate Father Riz – his birthday was June 19th, his 45th ordination anniversary was June 21st, and his retirement begins July 1st.
Father Riz shared stories about wanting to become a priest as a child, inspired by the example his Mom and Dad gave him of loving God and serving people in need.
Throughout the day people shared memories with me about how Father Riz supported them or their family through care and prayer.
Do something.
A woman has been scared to leave her home for the last 4 weeks.
Yesterday a friend picked her up and brought her to Mass.
Tears filled her eyes as she was greeted at the door of the church with smiles and “Good morning!”
Do something.
This coming weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles.
What amazing courage these two men had.
They were people, like you and me. They encountered Jesus and grew in a relationship with Him, which guided them and gave them amazing courage to do all they did to build the early Church and serve the people of God.
At one point, the Apostle James was killed, and Saint Peter was arrested.
Peter thus was being kept in prison, but prayer by the Church was fervently being made to God on his behalf. Acts 12:5
Prayer by the Church was fervently being made to God on Saint Peter’s behalf…
The Church is the people of God – you and me.
Fervently means with great intensity of spirit, feeling, enthusiasm, and vehemently.
Look at what is happening in parts of Southern California.
Look at what is happening in the Middle East.
Will we pray fervently?
Do something.
Both Saints Peter and Paul stood up for all people, knowing we all are children of God.
The Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed… 2 Timothy 4:17a
Saint Paul was imprisoned many times and suffered many trials as he worked to grow the early Church and care for God’s people.
He trusted in Jesus, giving him strength to persevere.
Each day this week I am asking them both to pray for each of us, that Jesus gives us His guidance and courage to do something.
Here is some inspiration and ideas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_RjndG0IX8
Blessings of courage!
