September 6-13, 2026
Friar's Footnotes by Fr. John Prenger, OFP
Hello to all. I am penning this missive on Labor Day, which seems fitting--that is, me laboring on Labor Day. I do hope it is a good restful weekend and we pray, especially for all essential laborers that their rights may always be defended by us who do appreciate their work. And while we are at it, we pray for the many who live in fear that because of their status may be snatched up and not given their constitutional rights. God help us become a more welcoming people.
Our upcoming readings will be Sirach 27: 30--28:7; Psalm 103; Romans 13: 7-9(10-12); and Matthew 18: 21-35. Both the first reading and gospel challenge us to forgive wrongdoing done to us from our heart. In the gospel, we are to forgive 70x7 times. Basically we must challenge ourselves in this, because if we do not, it POISONS our soul and spirit. The gospel goes on with a story by Jesus of an unforgiving servant whose debt has been forgiven, but who will not forgive a fellow servant. These texts are so germaine given the anger and unforgiveness going on in our culture these days. We Christians must lead the way in turning this way of being around.
The Romans reading reminds us that whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord and following from this is the thought that we must not stand in judgement or contempt of each other. We will have to give an account to the Lord at the close of our life.
Chapel Schedule
Noon Eucharist Tuesday (September 8), Fr. John presiding
Noon Eucharist Thursday (September 10), Fr. Jim presiding
5 pm Eucharist Saturday (September 12), Fr. Jim presiding
This is the second weekend of the month, which means Fr. John is going to preside at Eucharist on September 13 at St John's CEC parish in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Also, hold Fr. Jim's wife, Ginny in prayer. She has surgery on Tuesday September 8
SAYINGS OF THE SAINTS
"Breathe into me, O Holy Spirit,
That my thoughts may all be holy.
Act in me, O Holy Spirit,
That my work, too, may be holy.
Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit,
That I love but what is holy.
Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit,
To defend all that is holy.
Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit,
That I always may be holy. St. Augustine
Again, May the Lord bless us and keep us and make His face shine upon us. Have a blessed week.
Fr. John, OFP
Pontifications by Fr. Jim McNeely
