Our loving Fathers!
Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Holy Trinity. Understanding
God’s nature can be very challenging, especially when considering the Trinity –
three distinct Persons united as one God. It may seem simpler to think of just one
God, rather than grappling with the profound relationship between the Father, the
Son, and the Holy Spirit. In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells His disciples and us, “I have
much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of
truth, he will guide you to all truth.” The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in revealing
the full truth within the Trinity. The Spirit shares what he hears from the Father and
the Son, reflecting the connection among the three Persons of the Trinity. This divine
interaction reveals that true love is marked by selflessness, unity, and sharing.
At the heart of the Trinity is love, which shapes our understanding of God and
enriches our lives. As we reflect on the love shared among the Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit, it becomes clear that our search for happiness and fulfillment can be found
within this divine connection. The true essence of love provides a profound model for
nurturing our relationships and facing life’s challenges with courage. Recognizing
that God is love brings us profound insights, helping us see our struggles in a more
positive light and find solutions within a community deeply rooted in this divine love.
Today, we also have the joy of celebrating a special occasion in our parish
community: the 50th anniversary of Fr O’Flaherty’s ordination! This significant
anniversary not only honors his long commitment to God and the church but also
reflects the love at the heart of the Trinity. For nearly 28 years, Fr O’Flaherty’s
dedicated service to St. John’s Parish has been a shining example of his devotion to
his calling and the spiritual community he helped build. Through his guidance and
leadership, Fr. O’Flaherty has played a crucial role in fostering a community that
lives by the Parish Motto, “Be Kind,” a place where love, compassion, and
understanding can thrive. This milestone of his golden jubilee is not just a personal
achievement; it is also a beautiful collective celebration of the profound impact he
has made in each of our lives.
As we come together to give thanks to God for Fr. O’Flaherty’s remarkable halfcentury of devoted service, we also celebrate the countless blessings he has shared with us throughout the years. This gathering reminds us of the significance of
vocation and the profound impact a loving shepherd can have on his flock. Even
after retiring in 2020, Fr. O’Flaherty continues to uplift our parish community with his
joyful spirit, reminding us all of the true fulfillment that comes from serving others.
His words, “I love being retired!” beautifully express a joyful and less-stressed life.
Let’s keep him in our thoughts and prayers, wishing him abundant blessings and
good health.
This weekend, we also celebrate Father’s Day, a special occasion to honor all
fathers and father figures in our lives. May they embody the same love and devotion
that our Heavenly Father exemplifies. Wishing a Happy Father’s Day to all fathers!Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor