St. Augustine 

Monday - No Service
Tuesday - Friday - 12 Noon
Saturday - 5:30 pm
Sunday - 8:30 am & 11:00 am in English
                7:00 pm in Spanish
Holy Days - noon & 6:00 pm
Confessions - Saturday 4:30 pm - 5 pm
                          and by appointment

Third Sunday of Easter (05-01-2022)

            Jesus loves us unconditionally. When we speak of unconditional love, we usually mean a love that is without limits or conditions, one that is changeless, no matter what happens, given the ups and downs of life, such a love can seem challenging, if not impossible. Our readings today show us how the Resurrection was preached and made manifest to the early Church. They indicate how Jesus’ first followers were strengthened in their faith, and became faithful witnesses to the risen Lord.
            In the first reading, the Apostles continue to speak out in the name of Jesus despite normal warnings from the Jewish authorities. In the second reading St. John writes of the vision he had which included angels surrounding a throne and all creatures gave praise to the one who sat on the throne. In the Gospel, Jesus reveals himself once again to the disciples, while they are fishing. Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves him and tells Peter to take care of his sheep. Jesus offers to Peter to take care of his sheep. Here Jesus offers to Peter the love which is unconditional, even though Peter once denied and deserted him.
            It is interesting to note that John prefaces this encounter by describing how the disciples are back fishing on the Sea of Tiberius. With all that has transpired over the previous years and their knowledge and belief that Jesus has risen, where is their enthusiasm for the risen Christ? In this situation Jesus enters and demonstrates the truth of his unconditional love. Implicit in his three questions – do you love me? – is the fact that despite Peter’s three denials, Jesus has never given up on him. His love for and commitment to Peter are as unconditional and strong. Jesus loves Peter unconditionally. Jesus strengthens Peter in his faith to lead the Church.
            We are also invited to put ourselves in Peter’s shoes and be recipients of this unconditional love, especially where we have been broken or injured by life’s events. Jesus never gives up on us, for his love for us is unconditional. As we celebrate the Easter Season and its promise of new life, let us give thanks for that unconditional love.

 

Parish Life
Regarding parish life, the Archbishop encouraged pastors and priests to move forward with parish activities, including in-person gathering for all ages while observing the health and safety restrictions of the state. Whenever possible, we need to prudently proceed with the life of the Church. We need to focus our efforts on strengthening the faith of our people, especially the religious knowledge and faith of our children. In these unique times, our church may become poorer and smaller, but more fervent.          
 

Dear Parishioners and Friends,
 
For more than ninety years, St. Augustine Church has been a beacon of light in Lincoln City, and a gathering place of prayer, worship and service.

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