Homily – Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A.
February 8, 2026Homily – First Sunday of Lent (2026)
February 23, 2026SCROLL DOWN FOR CHILDREN’S LITURGY QUESTIONS
SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – REFLECTION; FATHER SIXMUND HENRY
During the season of Lent, Catholics are encouraged to take part in the Stations of the Cross as a meaningful spiritual devotion. This prayer is not simply a tradition or a weekly obligation—it is an invitation to walk with Jesus in the most intimate moments of His suffering, love, and self-giving.
The Way of the Cross allows us to slow down and enter the story of our salvation. As we move from station to station, we follow Christ from His condemnation to His crucifixion and burial. Each step reminds us that Jesus did not suffer in theory—He suffered in reality, with a human body, a human heart, and a love that chose the cross for our sake.
Why the Stations of the Cross Matter?
When a believer faithfully attends the Stations of the Cross at the scheduled time, something profound happens interiorly:
- Our hearts are softened. Meditating on Christ’s suffering awakens gratitude and humility. We begin to see how deeply we are loved.
- Our own crosses gain meaning. Life’s struggles—illness, loss, disappointment, loneliness—are no longer carried alone. Jesus walks with us, just as we walk with Him.
- Our faith becomes personal. The Stations move faith from the head to the heart. They help us encounter Christ not as a distant figure, but as a companion who understands pain.
- Conversion is nurtured. Seeing Christ fall and rise again challenges us to examine our own lives and return to God with sincerity.
- Hope is renewed. Even though the Way of the Cross is marked by suffering, it is never separated from love and redemption. The cross is not the end—it is the path to new life.
A Call to the Hesitant Heart
If you have not planned to attend the Stations of the Cross this Lent, consider this a gentle invitation. Set aside the time. Come even if you feel tired, distracted, or unworthy. You do not need perfect words or perfect focus—only a willing heart.
Walking the Way of the Cross is not about how much you do, but about allowing Christ to walk with you. In His suffering, you will find compassion. In His silence, you will hear truth. In His cross, you will discover the depth of God’s love for you. This Lent, do not pass by the cross. Walk with Jesus—and allow Him to transform your heart.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY QUESTIONS
YES / NO questions for kids: Matthew 5:17–37.
- Did Jesus say He came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets? – Yes
- Did Jesus say He came to abolish the Law? – No
- Did Jesus say that even the smallest letter of the Law will pass away? – No
- Did Jesus teach that whoever keeps and teaches the commandments will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven? – Yes
- Did Jesus say it is okay to be angry with your brother without consequences? – No
- Did Jesus warn that anger can bring judgment? – Yes
- Did Jesus allow people to insult others and call them “fool”? – No
- Did Jesus say we must first reconcile with others before offering our gift at the altar? – Yes
- Did Jesus teach that adultery happens only through actions and not in the heart? – No
- Did Jesus say that looking at someone with lust is adultery in the heart? – Yes
- Did Jesus use strong examples about removing what causes us to sin? – Yes
- Did Jesus say divorce is allowed for any reason? – No
- Did Jesus teach that marriage should be faithful and holy? – Yes
- Did Jesus tell people to swear many oaths to prove they are telling the truth? – No
- Did Jesus say, “Let your ‘Yes’ mean Yes and your ‘No’ mean No”? – Yes
- Did Jesus say our righteousness must be greater than that of the scribes and Pharisees? – Yes
- Did Jesus say we can enter Heaven even if we ignore God’s commandments? – No
- Did Jesus warn that calling someone “fool” can lead to serious judgment? – Yes
- Did Jesus teach that God cares only about outward actions? – No
- Did Jesus teach that God looks at what is in our hearts? – Yes
