2026-01-09 5:15 PM Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament followed by the Celebration of the Holy Mass

Welcome to our time of adoration followed by the celebration of the Holy Mass for Friday after the Feast of the Epiphany. Our reading from the Holy Gospel today, (Luke 5:12-16 (NRSV) reveals profound lessons on faith, compassion, Jesus' divine authority, and the essential need for prayer. The passage describes Jesus healing a man with leprosy, an act that was both a physical cure and a social and spiritual restoration. Key Themes for Meditation Humility and Desperation: The man's approach, despite his social isolation due to his condition, shows great faith and humility. His request acknowledges Jesus' power while respecting His will. Reflection: Consider approaching Jesus with humility and faith regarding areas of your life where you feel isolated or broken. Jesus' Compassion and Touch: Jesus' act of touching the man, defying social norms about ritual impurity, demonstrates radical compassion and God's willingness to engage with human suffering. The touch brings cleansing, not defilement. Reflection: Meditate on the significance of Jesus' willingness to connect with those considered outcasts, offering a love that surpasses societal and religious boundaries. Cleansing and Restoration: The man's request for cleansing and the subsequent healing highlight Jesus' desire for complete restoration—physical, social, and spiritual—bringing the man back into community and a right relationship with God by fulfilling the requirements of the Mosaic Law. Reflection: Recognize that Jesus seeks our full restoration and addresses the root issues that lead to isolation, bringing us back into fellowship with God and others. The Necessity of Prayer: Even amidst growing ministry demands, Jesus regularly withdraws to pray, emphasizing the vital role of solitude and communion with God for spiritual strength and guidance. Reflection: How does Jesus' example of prioritizing prayer influence your life? Consider the importance of setting aside time to connect with God for strength and clarity Psalm Response is Psalm 147: "Praise the Lord, Jerusalem". Our Responsorial Psalm today is Psalm 147: "Praise the Lord, Jerusalem."