Homily: Friday in the Octave of Easter

Friday in the Octave of Easter (Jn 21:1-14) “A Big Catch”

When we read the Gospel today, we probably say to ourselves, “Haven’t I heard this story before?” The answer is yes. We have heard this story before. A similar story is in chapter 5 in the Gospel of Luke. This miraculous catch of fish story occurs at the beginning of the ministry of Jesus. In the story, Jesus calls Peter and the other fisherman to follow him.

Some scripture scholars, debate whether this is one incident that is put in two different places in the Gospel or is it two separate incidents. We read in the resurrection accounts how Jesus reveals his identity to his apostles by engaging in familiar activities. He celebrates the Eucharist several times in the resurrection accounts. When he does, his friends understand who he is. The fishing miracles are familiar as well. When Jesus helps the apostles catch fish they understand, once again, who he is.

These stories might be a metaphor for what we experience in our spiritual life. How often do we have a dry period or a time of doubt in our faith life. How do we renew our belief in Jesus? We might think about a moment of conversion in our life. We might go back to the place where it happened. We might reread a book that inspired us. We might go visit someone who was a Christian role model. When we do things like this, we might revive our sinking spirits.

In John’s accounts the Apostles go back to where they started with Jesus, in Galilee. They remember the good times when Jesus was preaching, performing miracles and inspiring hundreds of people. When they remembered how it felt to be called by Jesus they were strengthened and renewed. They were ready to begin anew.

Reflection Questions:

1.    When did I first become interested in Jesus? What was it that attracted me to him?

2.   Do I see other Bible stories that are repeated? Why might this happen?

 Dear Parishioners,

          This is a time of year that we have a lot of baptisms and confirmations. Often young people are looking for a sponsor. What are the qualifications to be a sponsor. The sponsor is to be sixteen years old, baptized, confirmed and a practicing Catholic. This means the individual should be able to receive communion in the Catholic church. They have also kept the precepts of the church.

          At times people are asked to be sponsors and they are asked to verify that they belong to a parish. It is an embarrassing thing if someone is asked to be a sponsor and they have not been active in the faith for a long time. It is hard for a parish to recommend that such a person be a sponsor.

          If you run into a situation where you don’t qualify to be a sponsor you might talk to a member of our parish staff. Perhaps we can help you take steps so that you can be a Godfather, Godmother, or sponsor.

          May Our Lady of Peach pray for us,

          Fr. Mark