The Beauty of Ascension

The Beauty of Ascension

In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us about The Beauty of Ascension. Usually, saying goodbye can feel painful and emotional. However, today’s Gospel teaches us that goodbyes can also lead to something greater. Jesus told His disciples that the Scriptures had to be fulfilled and that something wonderful would happen as He ascended into heaven. Instead of despair, the disciples experienced joy because Jesus helped them understand The Beauty of Ascension. As a result, they praised and worshiped Him with grateful hearts. Moreover, the Ascension reminds us that Christ’s departure was not the end. Rather, it opened the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit, God continues to guide, strengthen, and empower us each day. Therefore, we should pray constantly for deeper understanding and stronger faith. Let this be our prayer: “Lord, give us the grace to understand.” Pray this every morning so that we may realize why Jesus had to go — so that the Holy Spirit could enter our lives and transform our hearts. Finally, let us always remember that we already stand in a position of victory through Christ. If we believe in Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to dwell within us, He will lead us toward our purpose. When we surrender ourselves completely to God, the Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill our mission and live with lasting joy. Indeed, The Beauty of Ascension lies in knowing that Christ never truly leaves us, because He remains present through the Holy Spirit. Seventh Sunday of Easter- May 17, 2026 First Proclamation: Acts 1:1-11 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47:1-9 Second Proclamation: Ephesians 1:15-23 Gospel Proclamation: Luke 24:45-53 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!       https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/the-beauty-of-ascension/?feed_id=853&_unique_id=6a093e7425108

Love God by Obeying His Commands

Love God by Obeying His Commands

In his Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael in Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded the faithful that we truly love God when we obey His commands. The Gospel shows Jesus preparing His disciples for the coming of the Holy Spirit. He tells them, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Through these words, Jesus clearly connects love and obedience. God gave His commandments to the Israelites as part of His covenant with them. This covenant was not simply a set of rules but a relationship built on God’s love for His people. Because God loves us so deeply and faithfully, our proper response is to obey Him. We do not follow His commands merely because we are required to do so, but because we recognize His goodness and love. However, obedience without love loses its meaning. If we obey God only out of compliance, our actions become empty and mechanical. God desires more than outward obedience; He wants a genuine relationship with us. Love gives life and meaning to every commandment He asks us to follow. At the same time, we should not obey God out of fear alone. Scripture reminds us that “perfect love casts out fear.” God’s perfect love should guide and shape everything we do. When love becomes the center of our faith, obedience no longer feels burdensome. Therefore, we must love God by obeying Him—not out of fear or mere compliance, but out of sincere love and gratitude for all He has done for us. Sixth Sunday of Easter - May 10, 2026 First Proclamation: Acts 17:22-31 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 66 Second Proclamation: 1 Peter 3:8-20 Gospel Proclamation: John 14:15-21 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!   https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/love-god-by-obeying-his-commands/?feed_id=844&_unique_id=6a000176de9db

Jesus: the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Jesus: the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

During the Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. At the heart of our faith lies Christ’s death and resurrection. In the Gospel, Jesus begins with a comforting command: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” Trouble comes from fear—of death. At times, we worry about our health or the uncertainties of life. However, we must not allow fear to dominate our hearts; instead, we are called to choose faith. Moreover, we sometimes feel lost and uncertain, asking ourselves where to go or what path to take. In these moments, Jesus reassures us that He Himself is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Therefore, we are invited to let Christ live in us so that we may fully live in Him. As we grow in faith, we begin to reflect His life in our daily actions. By trusting Him and opening our hearts, we allow His presence to guide our thoughts, choices, and relationships. Consequently, living in Christ becomes a witness to others. When people see His love and truth in us, they come to recognize that Jesus is truly the Way, the Truth, and the Life. This journey begins with sincere faith and deep trust, leading us to walk confidently in His ways each day. https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/jesus-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life/?feed_id=835&_unique_id=69f6c973ee3f8