Homily Feast of St. Bartholomew

Homily Feast of St. Bartholomew

St. Bartholomew was one of the twelve apostles.  Sometimes it is not clear which apostle is being written about in the scriptures.  Some of them had different names that were used probably depending on if they had both a Greek name and Hebrew name.

Bartholomew, according to different traditions, was an adventuresome disciple he traveled far and wide as an Apostle.  It is reported that he went to India.  He is also said to have preached in Persia.  He is the patron saint of Armenia. 

What is impressive about Bartholomew is that he did not evangelize where things were easy. He did what is called primary evangelization.  He went where Christians had never been before.  He had to explain Christianity to people who had no idea of what he was talking about.  If we had to try this, I wonder where we would start?

Most people in our society have at least heard of Jesus, but I find that we can no longer take for granted that people have been introduced to Jesus.  Fortunately, the people in our lives can at least read so they can start to read the Gospels.

I always find it helpful, when someone does not have a lot of background, to ask them to read one of the Gospels.  Usually, the Holy Spirit takes over and a seed is planted. But if I had to start by explaining the Jesus story in my own words, I wonder what I would do.

Bartholomew, it is said, was flayed alive.  He is pictured in Michael Angelo’s last judgement with his skin draped over his arm.  Truly he was a courageous preacher and loved Jesus deeply.

Reflection Questions:

1. Do I know anyone who has never been introduced to Christianity?  How could I approach them and tell them about my faith?
   1. Is there a break down in religious knowledge in our culture?  Why is that happening?  What might I do about it in my life?

 

Dear Parishioners,

          I had the pleasure of meeting Bishop Louis Tylka last Saturday.  He was in the Vicariate for a Mass and reception. The Bishop is the new Coadjutor Bishop of Peoria.  It was very difficult to keep all the protocols and try to get to know him.  Fortunately, the priests got to spend a couple hours with him. 

          He is a vey warm and humble man.  One of the things that touched all the priests was his deep desire to visit all the parishes and to confirm as many students in their home parishes.  He plans to visit every parish in the diocese and there are about 160 in the next two years.  I would anticipate him coming to our parish for confirmation this year.

          I am sure that we look forward to that.  I don’t think he will be a stranger to our area.

          May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you.

          Fr. Mark