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Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org In our gospel today, Luke 1:39-56, Mary traveled far away to visit her cousin Elizabeth.  When Elizabeth heard Mary’s voice, the infant leaped in her womb. We know this infant to later be known as John Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org Luke’s account of the Annunciation is one of the Gospel’s most familiar passages. It is read on a number of major feasts and Sundays. Luke’s portrayal of the Annunciation is carefully crafted to make clear that Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org Dreams are important in the Bible, especially in regard to the birth of Jesus. Here there are five dreams listed; four to Joseph and one to the Magi. In Joseph’s first dream, he get astonishing news that Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org In our gospel today, Matthew 1:1-17, we hear the famous genealogy narrative of Jesus. (I must admit that I dread when I have to read this Gospel in Church!) Matthew is telling the family history of Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org John the Baptist was part of God’s plan as foretold by the prophets. His task was to prepare the way of the Lord. Like Jesus, the Scribes and the Pharisees rejected him and his message. Sometimes I feel Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org People often ask me how the Sunday readings are selected. They are part of the Church’s three year cycle and are not chosen by the pastor or the parishioners. In this cycle, Year A centers on Matthew’s Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org Today’s Gospel is the story of the man who had two sons. One said yes but didn’t go into the vineyard. The other said no but eventually decided to go. My first thought is that actions speak louder Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org In our gospel today of Matthew 21:23-27, Jesus is approached by the temple elders, and they are not happy with him. They don’t like his teachings challenging their religious laws and practices. They don’t like his chasing Read more…

Orange County Cursillo | communications@occursillo.org | occursillo.org John the Baptist was sent to prepare the way for the Messiah. However, John didn’t receive any clear direction about his mission. No angel was sent to tell him what he was supposed to do. When Jesus Read more…