The Gospel in today’s Mass continues the reading from the sixth chapter of John. Last Sunday we read about the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes. Today’s passage begins what is called the Lord’s “discourse on the Bread of Life.” The Church usually selects readings from the Old Testament which have a connection to the Gospel. The reading from the Book of Exodus certainly connects with today’s Gospel. In fact, the conversation Jesus has with the Jews is explicitly about that event in the Old Testament where the people are fed from “bread from Heaven.” In both cases the people are concerned about their physical needs. How typical that is for us humans! If we are not obsessed with obtaining something that we don’t have, we are worrying about the possibility of losing what we do have. How much more at peace would our hearts be if we could be grateful for whatever we have! The account from Exodus indicates that the Chosen People were continually struggling with this. When things seemed to be bad for them, they began to long for the “good old days” back in Egypt. They were truly a fickle people. But we are usually no better. There has never been a time when a nation has had so many material things as we have. And yet we are frequently dissatisfied. During these next several weeks (while we read through the sixth chapter of John and reflect on the Lord’s discourse on the Bread of Life), take note of the many good things with which the Lord has blessed you. And especially be grateful that He has given us the great Gift from Heaven: His own Body and Blood

Fall is the time for us to start our RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) formation classes. These classes are for any person who is not bap- tized, or is baptized in another Christian church, and is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church. Call the parish office for more info or to register.
                       May God bless you! Fr. Schaller