Youth Ministry

Important Links:

Youth Minister

772-589-5790 or email Youth@stsebastian.com

Virtues, EXPLAINED! God Himself is Truth. Therefore, if we belong to God, we must live truthfully — in small matters and in large ones, so that the witness we bear to the ultimate Truth of God shall always be taken seriously.

Fr. Antony's Homily on 11th Sunday of Ordianry TIme.

INSPIRATION FOR THE WEEK — In his mercy, Jesus sent his Apostles into ministry — and the Apostles are still ministering today. We see them in the sanctuary, in the confessional. They are our priests, sent to shepherd Christ’s sheep. This week, let’s pray for our shepherds.

Question of the Week — Jesus commissioned his 12 Apostles to carry on his missionary work of healing the sick and exorcising unclean spirits. Do you have a sense of mission for your life? What is it?

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE June 14, 2026 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 9:36-10:8 A few years ago, I met a woman in my parish who was a successful lawyer. Yet in her free time, she poured her energy into a nonprofit she founded to advocate for children with special needs. When I asked what inspired her, she spoke of her niece, who was born with disabilities. Her niece was both a glorious gift and a constant challenge. Out of that painful, beautiful experience, she felt called to create something lasting for other children and parents. The nonprofit thrived, not because she had mapped it all out, but because she was deeply moved to act. In today’s Gospel, Jesus is “moved with compassion” for the crowd, for they were “like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36) So he calls his disciples, ordinary men with no special qualifications, and sends them to heal, preach, and cast out demons. Their mission flows not from their skills but from his authority and the Spirit’s gifts. The Second Vatican Council teaches that the Spirit continually pours out charisms, special graces for the good of the Church and the world (cf. Lumen Gentium 4 & 12). These often arise from the unfolding of our lives: from what breaks your heart, what fills you with hope, what suffering has shaped you. The Spirit works through those very experiences to equip us with gifts that build up others. What is your charism? Well, what needs around you call you to loving action? This could be where Christ is sending you. Allow your heart to be moved like Christ’s. Then get to work. — Father John Muir ©LPi

Strengthening Faith Question: Our prayer group is discussing ways we can change and strengthen our faith. What one thing could we change that would have the greatest impact on our faith? Answer: A famous coach once said that when the team is in trouble and things aren’t going well, go back to the basics; when the team is winning and things are going well, go back to the basics! Any renewal program, faith development, or spiritual growth effort has to start with the basic core of what it means to believe. If the foundation is not strong, the house will not stand. So if you work on one thing, begin with the idea that God is love, who loves us and calls us to love one another. If we really take that belief to heart, it changes how we see God, ourselves, and one another. It would change how we pray, how we treat others, and how we understand and live our own life. Our sense of mission and purpose will be more focused on God’s plan and our role in it. Love is the core of faith, the goal of life, and the hope of heaven. Whatever we do to strengthen and deepen our faith will begin and end with love. ©LPi

Did you know that June is the Month of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and that today is the Feast of the Sacred Heart? This feast celebrates Jesus' divine love, mercy, and his humanity! Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you!

TODAY, ON THURSDAY JUNE 11TH AT ST. SEBASTIAN CHURCH Consecration of the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus On June 11, 2026, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Parishes around the country are encouraged to join the bishops in celebrating the consecration of our nation to the Sacred Heart. On June 11, at St. Sebastian we will have all day adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from 9:00 am until 5:45 pm and at 6:00 pm we will conclude the day with a solemn Mass and Consecration of our nation and families to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. We have made available frames of the Scared Heart of Jesus images in our parish gift shop, you can pick one up, get them blessed on the day of consecration. to be placed in your homes.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK — Jesus teaches the crowds that whoever eats his body and drinks his blood will live forever. Who could you invite this week to attend Sunday Mass and receive the Eucharist with you?

Virtues, EXPLAINED! Gratitude pays a kind of “moral debt.” Children owe it to their parents; citizens owe it to their country. The Eucharist is the most perfect act of gratitude, wherein God is acknowledged as the source of all good.

Fr. Antony's Homily on Corpus Christi 2026

ON THURSDAY JUNE 11TH AT ST. SEBASTIAN CHURCH Consecration of the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus On June 11, 2026, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Parishes around the country are encouraged to join the bishops in celebrating the consecration of our nation to the Sacred Heart. On June 11, at St. Sebastian we will have all day adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from 9:00 am until 5:45 pm and at 6:00 pm we will conclude the day with a solemn Mass and Consecration of our nation and families to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. We have made available frames of the Scared Heart of Jesus images in our parish gift shop, you can pick one up, get them blessed on the day of consecration. to be placed in your homes.

INSPIRATION FOR THE WEEK —The starving Israelites found their physical salvation in manna, “a food unknown to your fathers.” We find our spiritual salvation in the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, a food unknown to too many souls. Blessed are we to partake of the Bread of Life.

Corpus Christi Prayer — O Precious Jesus, The gift of your Body and Blood, shared with us, is unfathomable. Like manna that satiated our hunger, fill us where we lack. Like the bread given to Elijah in the desert, sustain us. Grace us with a glimpse into your love for us, now and forever, present in the Eucharist. Amen.

Corpus Christi Mass and Procession with Most Rev. Manuel Rodriguez, Bishop of the Diocese of Palm Beach.

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE June 7, 2026 The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ John 6:51-58 When I was a young altar server, I once overheard two very different comments about the Eucharist. One person asked, “Is Father distributing the bread or the wine?” Later, another asked, “Can you go get Jesus from the tabernacle?” Same parish, same Mass, but two very different ways of speaking. I pondered: So, is it bread that we pretend is Jesus? Or is Jesus a tiny white thing in a box? I was utterly confused. This Feast of Corpus Christi is an excellent time to think about how we should speak about the Eucharist. In today’s Gospel, Jesus declares: “My flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.” (John 6:55) His words scandalized his listeners, who feared cannibalism, and even today puzzle many, who reduce them to metaphor. Both miss the truth. The Church gives us better words that honor Jesus’ words in the Gospel. After the consecration, we do not call it “bread” or “wine.” Nor do we say, “a piece of Jesus” or even “Jesus.” We say: the Eucharist. We say: the Body and Blood of Christ. We say: the Real Presence. We say: the Most Blessed Sacrament. These words safeguard the astonishing reality that Christ himself is truly present, whole and entire, under the appearances of bread and wine. If we speak well about the Eucharist, we will think more clearly and believe more deeply. And if we believe more deeply, we will adore more truly the One who gives himself to us — not bread, not wine, but Jesus Christ himself, whole and entire. — Father John Muir ©LPi

Holy See Question: Why is the Vatican sometimes called the “Holy See?” Answer: A little background in ecclesiology will help explain why we call the Vatican the Holy See. The Church is very structured and organized in its hierarchy. A diocese is a geographic area governed by a bishop appointed by the Pope. Each diocese is further broken down into parishes, which have pastors who represent the bishop in his teaching authority. The diocese of Rome has a particular role in the Church because of its importance and antiquity. The Pope is head of the Church because he is the Bishop of Rome. Every bishop has a seat or throne, which is the symbol of his teaching authority and is located in the cathedral of each diocese. The Latin word for seat is “sedes.” So each diocese can be referred to as a “see.” Most people think that St. Peter’s is the cathedral of Rome, but St. John Lateran Basilica is actually the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Rome. This is where the Pope’s seat or throne as Bishop of Rome is found. So, the Holy See is a reference to the chair of Peter, the Pope’s Chair. ©LPi

This weekend, we celebrate the Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi. May this beautiful feast draw us deeper into our love for Christ, who is truly present in the Eucharist. See you at Mass!

Fun Fact: When the members of our parish get confirmed, they are anointed by the Holy Spirit. Let' s keep them in our prayers!

Virtues, EXPLAINED! We see perfect obedience shown by Christ amidst his agony in the garden. His human will dreads what will come, but his divine will, which is never at odds with his human will, submits to the Truth: “Yet, not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39)

QUESTION of the WEEK — Jesus speaks of God’s love and commitment to both people and planet. What do you imagine a “saved” world will look like?

INSPIRATION FOR THE WEEK — Salvation is a gift God dearly wishes us to accept. It is not a yardstick against which He measures our worth. He has made it so simple. So, will we accept?

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE May 31, 2026 The Most Holy Trinity John 3:16-18 I was 16 years old on a youth group retreat in the mountains. One night, I opened my heart to the message being proclaimed: that God so loved the world that He sent His Son for us. Later, I lay under the pine trees and looked up at the countless stars. They seemed different. No longer cold, distant balls of chemical reactions, they appeared as an expression of God’s love, as if He were giving those stars directly to me. The truth of God sending His Son changed how I saw the whole universe. That is what today’s Gospel reveals: “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son.” (John 3:16) The universe is not just a whirl of impersonal forces or empty space. At its heart is a gift: the Father eternally giving the Son, not to condemn, but to bring life. This is not abstract doctrine but deeply personal. God gives His Son for you and me. Each human life is precious enough to be caught up in that eternal gift. It is in the Mass where we encounter this most directly. In the Word proclaimed, in the assembly gathered, in the priest, and above all in the Eucharist, the Father once again gives His Son. What looks like bread and wine is the drama of the Trinity, laboring to love us here and now. The Trinity is not a puzzle to solve but the blazing Truth at the center of everything: the Father gives the Son for you and me. Lord, help us to see this more clearly. — Father John Muir ©LPi

Near-Death Experiences Question: Are near-death experiences real? Answer: There is a lot of curiosity and fascination with the idea of an afterlife and communicating with those who have died. In movies, television shows, and numerous books, people make claims about their ability to communicate with the dead, or having had a near-death experience. There is no objective way to verify any of this. While details about people and events can be surprisingly accurate, it is just circumstantial evidence that might be explained in other ways. On the other hand, when people have unusual experiences, sometimes called near-death or out-of-body, it is real to them. They react with the emotions and thoughts that one would expect. At times, they report details they could not have known any other way, such as bits of conversation, or meeting people they had never known in this life. So certainly, to the person, they experience something. We believe in a life after death, we believe in the communion of saints. These things are not a contradiction to faith, but we should not base our faith on them, nor change our beliefs. They are unexplained and will likely remain so. ©LPi

Fr. Antony has been appointed as the Chancellor of the Diocese of Palm Beach by Most Revered Manuel de Jesús. Here is the announcement. I am pleased to announce that I have appointed Very Rev. Antony Pulikal to serve as the Chancellor and Moderator of the Curia, as well as Episcopal Vicar for Strategic Planning, for the Diocese of Palm Beach, effective immediately. For the time being, Father Pulikal will remain also as Pastor of St. Sebastian Catholic Church. I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Father Albert DelloRusso, former Chancellor, for the years of service he has generously offered to the Diocese and to the various institutions he has assisted throughout his tenure. Father Dello Russo has been assigned to serve as Pastor of St. Paul of the Cross Parish in North Palm Beach, effective July 1, 2026. We remain grateful for his dedication, commitment, and priestly ministry among us. Most Revered Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, J.C.D. Bishop of Palm Beach

This Sunday, we celebrate the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity. Trinity Prayer — O Divine Mystery, O Sacred Trinity! Surround us with Your wisdom, love, power, and grace. Draw us to Yourself. Help us to rest in Your goodness. Amen. See you at Mass!

Virtues, EXPLAINED! “Piety denotes the reverence which we give to our faith and to our country,” writes St. Thomas Aquinas. “And since God is the Father of all, the worship of God is also called piety.”

QUESTION OF THE WEEK — This past weekend in the Gospel reading, the resurrected Jesus sends the disciples forth equipped with the power of the Holy Spirit to forgive or retain sins. Does forgiving others come easily to you?

Pentecost Prayer — Come Holy Spirit, Descend upon us and fill us with the fire of Your love! Remind us of Your dreams for us, ignite us with new zeal, place new visions on our hearts, and the grace to work alongside You. Amen.

Corpus Christi 2026 On June7 at 11:30 am Mass St. Sebastian Catholic Church. All are welcome!

Today, we observe two meaningful occasions: Memorial Day and the memorial of Blessed Mary, Mother of the Church. As we remember those who gave their lives in service to our country, we also turn to Mary, Mother of the Church, asking her to pray for us and for all who have sacrificed for our freedom.

Homily of Fr. Antony on Pentecost sunday 2026

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE May 24, 2026 Pentecost Sunday John 20:19-23 “He breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.’” (John 20:22–23) For those of us who go to confession regularly, there is often a familiar frustration: “Why do I keep confessing the same sins?” It can feel like a loop, cleansed but unchanged. Pentecost reveals a hopeful perspective. When the Risen Jesus breathes on his ashamed and fearful disciples and gives them the Holy Spirit, he echoes Genesis, when God breathes life into Adam. This is not just primarily the removal of guilt, but new creation. In confession, we receive more than forgiveness. We receive a fresh outpouring, the breath of the Spirit, and a renewed mission. Jesus does not say to us, “You’re forgiven, now go back to your old life.” He says, so to speak, “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” (John 20:21) That is why penance is not just saying a few prayers. It is reorientation. It is the Spirit summoning us to live differently: with mercy and healing. Just as Adam was sent into the world, and the Apostles were sent out after Pentecost, so too we are sent from the confessional — not just clean, but consecrated. Pentecost Challenge: After your next confession, ask the Holy Spirit for one way you can participate in Christ’s healing will for you. Then take one small, concrete step, and do not look back. — Father John Muir ©LPi

Parish Registration Question: Why is it so important that we register in a parish? Isn't it good enough that we go to Mass? Answer: Registration is the official way we join a parish community. Many people think that because they attend a particular parish they automatically belong. At times, young adults who have moved away for years think they are still signed up under their parents. But membership requires signing up, formally enrolling yourself in a parish. Registration is a commitment to a community, a way to be included in the religious, social, and ministerial activities of your parish. Your registration affects the parish in many ways. Census numbers can determine how many priests are assigned to a church, what benefits and obligations the community has to the diocese, and how Masses, Confessions, and devotions are planned and scheduled. Registration shows you belong. It is also necessary for certain benefits, like scheduling sacraments, obtaining sponsor certificates, and getting donation statements for taxes. Most importantly, it lets the parish count on you, to call on you to assist in its mission. Registering in your parish is a statement of faith and confidence in the life and work of your parish. ©LPi

This weekend, we celebrate Pentecost, often called the birthday of the Church. Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as the “Advocate.” The Latin word for lawyer is “advocatus.” Like a lawyer, the Holy Spirit defends and guides us. So, when you’re in trouble, don’t forget — ask for your lawyer, and do what he tells you. See you at Mass!

Fun Fact: A "pilgrimage" is a special journey to a spiritual location with the purpose of thanking God, carrying a prayerful intention, and growing deeper in faith.

Virtues, EXPLAINED! The virtue of loyalty is closely linked to the virtue of obedience, wherein we freely submit ourselves to rightful authority. We are called to be loyal to our bishops, to Scripture and Tradition, to the teaching authority of the Church, and to the Christian way of life.

Traditionally, a May Crowning is when we place a crown of flowers on a statue of Mary at our parish (or at home). In doing so, we honor Mary as the Queen of Heaven and the Mother of God. We had our May crowning on May 10th at 11:30 am Mass with our chidlren who made their first Holy Communions. Mary, Queen of Heaven, pray for us!

LIVE THE LITURGY — Eternal life, Jesus tells us, is about knowing God. It’s not about power or accomplishment. It’s not earned or won. It’s not a prize, and it’s certainly not a finish line. It’s a relationship — one that is ours to begin. How will we know God this week?

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE May 17, 2026 The Ascension of the Lord Matthew 28:16-20 I recently read a book called “The Defining Decade” by psychologist Dr. Meg Jay. She convincingly argues that a person’s 20s are the most impactful decade of one’s life. For example, a twenty-something who waits until she has absolute clarity before making commitments typically drifts and regrets it later. But those who dive into something meaningful — even with doubts and questions — tend to grow and find joy and better outcomes in life. In other words, it takes courage, not perfect certainty, to move forward. As we celebrate the Ascension of the Lord, that insight comes alive in a new way. Matthew tells us: “When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted.” (Matthew 28:17) Even standing before the risen Christ, the disciples were a mixture of adoration and hesitation. It is as though they were in their spiritual 20s…unsure, doubting, but nonetheless called to act in worship and mission. Here is the key: Jesus does not tell them to wait until they are sure of things. He sends them anyway: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19) The mission of the Church begins not with perfect certainty but with imperfect disciples who wonder and worship. Then they get going. That is us, too. We may feel unsure of ourselves, perhaps full of hesitation about following Christ more fully. But now is not the time to wait for perfect clarity. Now is the time to worship and to go, trusting that he is with us always, even to the end of the age. — Father John Muir ©LP

Priest Vestments Question: Why do priests wear vestments? Do they have a special meaning? Answer: Vestments are clothes worn for a specific purpose. Priests will joke that they cover a thousand flaws. But our own manner of dress often corresponds to what we do. We dress up for special occasions, and for special guests. We wear certain clothes for golf, for outdoor activities, and years ago, we even had our "Sunday best" clothes we wore just for Church. Vestments are much the same, and each one has a meaning. The alb is a reminder of the baptismal garment. The stole is a symbol of ordained ministry and authority within the Church. The chasuble reminds us that we are on a pilgrimage of faith, passing through this life towards heaven. Priests wear vestments for two basic reasons. First, they draw attention to the importance and solemnity of the act of worship. The color of the vestments indicates the season of the year or the feast being celebrated. Secondly, vestments draw attention to what the priest does, rather than who he is. In the celebration of the Mass, the focus is on what we do together, on our common unity, and on the mystery and person of Christ. ©LPi

This weekend, we celebrate World Communications Day and continue to rejoice in the Ascension of the Lord. Blessing for Communications: Dear Jesus, On this World Communications Day, bless each of us as we communicate, whether by conversation, email, text, post, letter, or phone. May our words bring peace, comfort, healing, promise, joy, and love. May we bring your blessing wherever we go. Amen.

We will celebtate the solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord this weekedn. The Ascension of the Lord marks the day Jesus' earthly ministry ended, and his heavenly ministry began. Christ's ministry continues to this day at the right hand of the Father in Heaven.

Today we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, commemorating Mary’s apparitions to three shepherd children in Portugal in 1917. The final apparition was witnessed not only by the children but also by thousands of others, including skeptics. This event became known as the “Miracle of the Sun.” Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us!

Virtues, EXPLAINED! The virtue of courage is intimately linked with that of fortitude — roughly understood as courage in action — and is shown by the person who makes a choice to place his trust in God, not in circumstance.

LIVE THE LITURGY — When we want to see Christ’s face, we must look to the Sacraments. “The world will no longer see me,” Christ tells his disciples, “but you will see me.” This ability to see Jesus is a gift of the Holy Spirit, one made again and again — even today.

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE May 10, 2026 6th Sunday of Easter John 14:15-21 In my family, we can hardly speak about orphans without tears. My father was adopted as a baby. He frequently told us stories of how his parents welcomed him not just into their home but into their hearts. It was never merely a relocation or a legal transaction. It was the joy of being chosen, of receiving a family, a name, and a place where he belonged forever. Even in his later years, recalling that gift still moves him to tears of tender gratitude. That is the kind of tenderness behind Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel: “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18) He is going away, but not abandoning us. Instead, he sends us the Advocate, the Holy Spirit — his own Spirit, shared with the Father — who dwells in us. Through the Spirit, Christ is present in us, and we are present in him. His Spirit gives us a home and a family. We deepen this knowledge in the sacraments, in prayer, and in the daily life of the Church. The Spirit is the bond of belonging, the power that makes us God’s sons and daughters, not spiritual orphans. And this is not a one-time event. There is always a deeper outpouring of the Spirit available to us, a fresh appropriation of the promise that we are never abandoned. If only we could be as grateful as my dad is for his adoption, realizing that we have been adopted by God Himself. In Christ, we are never left as orphans. — Father John Muir ©LPi

First Holy Communion

Ten Commandments Question: In Sunday school, the students are studying the Ten Commandments. I know that kids are important in the eyes of God, so I'm just wondering why there isn't a commandment about honoring children. Answer: Commandments provide EOO-Equal Opportunity for Observance! They are meant for everyone, children as well as adults. There are several assumptions that would make such a commandment a bit redundant. One, children are entrusted to the care of their parents. So, respect, love, and care — as well as teaching them — are assumed to be part of the responsibility of parents. They are the first teachers in the ways of faith and, as such, participate in God's work of loving and creating. The child has the obligation and responsibility towards their parents. Only when they are adults will they make decisions on their own. In Biblical times, and in many societies today, children are responsible for caring for elderly parents, providing for their needs. In our culture today, too often kids have more rights than responsibilities, and oftentimes long before they are able to handle them. If we follow the Commandment of Jesus to love others and treat them as we would want to be treated, everyone is included, children too. ©LPi

This Sunday, we celebrate Mother's Day! How will you honor the mothers in your life this weekend?

Today is the National Day of Prayer! Take a moment today to pray together this blessing of peace: Dear Lord, You have said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” Bless me with Your peace. Fill my heart with trust in You, and hope in Your promises. Be my rock in times of distress, my light in times of darkness, and my rest in the storm. Amen.

Virtues, EXPLAINED! Diligence is the opposite of negligence; the diligent man pursues his goal with the same faithfulness with which God has pursued us, wayward as we are, through the long course of salvation history. It is the virtue by which man can secure for himself true happiness.

Did you know that the month of May is specially dedicated to Mary? Many Catholics honor Mary in May by participating in a May Crowning, setting up a home altar to Mary, and praying a daily Rosary.

INSPIRATION FOR THE WEEK —How often do we contemplate the mercy of God, but fear it will run out? How often do we consider following the path of Christ and worry that it is too steep? But God has not overpromised. Dare to believe Him. Dare to follow Him.

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE May 3, 2026 5th Sunday of Easter John 14:1-12 We generally approach life with the question, “What can this do for me?” We try a new workout, a low-carb diet, intermittent fasting, or a new career path, hoping it will make us healthier, stronger, happier. The assumption is that if I invest in this, I’ll eventually reap some benefit, or I won’t do it. It is easy to think of faith the same way: if I really practice my faith, what will it do for me? Will it make me calmer, more moral, more successful? But in today’s Gospel, Jesus says something astonishing. He doesn’t present himself as a teacher who shows us the way to life. He says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” (John 14:6) He is not merely a guide toward some higher benefit. He is the benefit itself. To know him is to know Life. Thomas Aquinas explains that every desire in the human heart — love, joy, meaning, all of our restless cravings — is really an indirect cry for life. Even despair testifies to this longing: people despair precisely because they feel they are not, and might never be, fully alive. The good news is that Jesus is not simply the means to a better life; He is Life itself. To believe in him is to share in God’s own eternal vitality. Not simply later but even now. Faith is not a transaction that produces results — it is a union that fills us with joy. To be in communion with Christ is to be truly, fully alive. — Father John Muir ©LPi

Confessing Sins Question: If I go to the Sacrament of Penance and end up repeating the same sins, does that mean I do not have a strong enough intention to amend my life? Answer: There is a popular expression that says, “Be patient. God isn’t finished with me yet!” Growing in faith and holiness is an ongoing, life-long project, and our struggle with sin is at the heart of it. As St. Paul says, the good he intends to do, he does not do. The evil he does not intend, he does! It is not always a lack of intention, but more often the allure of evil that makes it difficult to change. When we confess our sins, we are to come with a fully contrite heart. You need to reflect on your true feelings toward your actions before approaching the sacrament. After confession, there are strategies you can make to avoid falling into the same traps of sin. First, pray for and seek out strength and perseverance through multiple sacraments, charitable work, and personal sacrifice. Second, avoid occasions of sin when you might fail or be sorely tempted. In doing these things, remind yourself daily that it is a spiritual war we wage, and with God’s grace, we will succeed. ©LPi

This weekend is the 5th Sunday of Easter and in this Sunday's Gospel reading we'll hear Jesus say, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Jn 14:6) See you at Mass!

Blessing of the Good Shepherd — Dear Jesus, Be the Good Shepherd in my life. Help me to know your voice and to respond. Help me to find your fold and the paths on which you lead. Bless me with verdant pastures and restful waters. Refresh my soul. Amen.

Virtues, EXPLAINED! True humility does not require us to ignore, underestimate, or hide our gifts — it merely demands that we use these gifts rightly, with the knowledge that they are from our Creator and meant for His glory, not our own.

Fun Fact — In art, St. Mark is depicted with a winged lion, a reference to the beginning of his Gospel, with St. John the Baptist "calling out" in the wilderness.

LIVE THE LITURGY — “The sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice,” Jesus says. Do we know the voice of Jesus when he speaks to us? Have we spent time in conversation with him? This week, listen for the voice of Jesus in your life, and follow where it leads.

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE April 26, 2026 4th Sunday of Easter John 10:1-10 “I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 My most boring job was working at an insurance company as a college student. My main task? Filing. Now imagine if I had told my supervisor, “I just want you to know, I’m willing to die for these files.” She would have called a psychiatrist — or at least security. There is something absurd in Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel: “I am the good shepherd… I lay down my life for the sheep.” (John 10:11) It sounds noble, until you think about it. No one dies for sheep. Not a hired hand. Not even a good shepherd. Sheep are important, sure, but not worth a human life. And yet, Jesus insists: I will die for them. The crowd understandably responds: “He is out of his mind.” C.S. Lewis once said that Jesus does not leave us the option of calling him merely a good teacher. If someone speaks like him, he is either lying, crazy, or telling the truth. John’s Gospel won’t let us stay sentimental. Jesus means it. He reveals a love that surpasses logic — a love that measures worth not by strength or success, but by the willingness to suffer unto death. The Good Shepherd’s madness is mercy. His cross makes no earthly sense and yet it makes divine sense. He lays down his life not for kings or saints but for sheep — for the ordinary, the unworthy, for you and me. Think of someone who may feel unworthy of love. Do something simple and generous for them, not because they deserve it, but because Jesus did the same for you. — Father John Muir ©LPi

This weekend we had our “Christ Renews Us” CRU) retreat for women of St. Sebastian. It was a great success!!! Thanks to the giving team and all those worked behind the scenes to make it a huge success.

Discerning Vocations Question: What does it mean to discern a vocation? Answer: The word vocation comes from the Latin word vocare, meaning “to call.” A vocation is a calling or invitation from God to serve in a particular way. For Catholics, that calling might be as a priest, sister, or married person. Vocation is the way we respond to the invitation to share in God’s grace and witness to God’s love in the world. Discerning a vocation is the process in which we pray for God’s guidance. We listen for God’s message that is often quiet and unassuming in a world filled with noise and distractions. We look at our gifts and talents, seek the advice of others, examine our motives, and listen to see what God is asking of us. The goal of discernment is to follow what the Lord wills, not what we think is the best idea. Many men enter a seminary to discern if that is their vocation, only to discover that their calling is to marriage. Others have resisted the idea for long periods of time, until finally they could resist no more. Some great saints have described that dilemma. Vocation is a human process of divine origin, and each of us must strive constantly to hear the call of God in our lives. ©LPi

In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus speaks of himself as the gate through which his followers pass and have abundant life. As we also spend this day celebrating the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, let's pray for an increase in vocations and for more people to follow Jesus' call. See you at Mass!

Virtues, EXPLAINED! This cardinal virtue of temperance is shown in the person who is master of his passions and his attachment to the world. “It ensures the will's mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable,” we read in the Catechism.

Today we celebrate Earth Day — a beautiful reminder of our call as Christians to be faithful stewards of God’s creation. On this special day, we reflect on what we, as a Church, can do to protect and care for the world God has entrusted to us. Consider reading Laudato Si, Pope Francis' encyclical, subtitled "On Care for Our Common Home."

Spring Fest 2026

Virtues, EXPLAINED! The virtue of fortitude actually requires, first and foremost, the feeling of fear. In order to grow in fortitude, one must face a thing which frightens him, doing so specifically in pursuit of the good.

April is the Month dedicated to the Holy Spirit! Together, may we foster a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit as Guide, Advocate, and Comforter. Come, Holy Spirit, come!

LIVE THE LITURGY — How does Christ prove himself to Thomas? Not by his face or his words, but by his wounds. So, when we look for God to show Himself in relief or in triumph, we must remember the wounds of Christ. This is where we find our salvation.

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE April 12, 2026 2nd Sunday of Easter (Sunday of Divine Mercy) John 20:19-31 “Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.’” (John 20:27) In my early 20s, I volunteered at a parish youth group. I witnessed teens encountering Jesus with a fresh, romantic wonder that reminded me of my own teenage conversion. But something had changed in me. I was quietly jaded and cynical. When teens shared stories of encountering Christ, I’d want to sarcastically murmur, “Well, good for you.” I had grown suspicious of the zeal I once knew. Then we brought the group on a pilgrimage. I was standing in an old church in France, ignoring a long-winded tour guide. I found myself before a crucifix. In that moment, I heard something, not audibly, but unmistakably in my heart: “I came to be your friend… and you wish to be my enemy? Why do you stand far from me? I suffer gladly for you. I was pierced for you. Why do you run from me?” My heart opened. I saw how cold and cynical I had become. But Jesus had not given up on me. He had returned, and his mercy broke through. So I can relate to the scoffing — and transformation — of Thomas when the Risen Jesus presents his wounds for inspection. Thomas is not simply doubting; he is guarded, suspicious, even cynical. But Jesus comes to him. No lecture. Just understanding and mercy. He invites Thomas to touch his wounds. This burns away his cynicism like the morning mist. Divine Mercy Challenge: This week, rejoice with someone who is newly alive in faith. If your own heart has grown skeptical or tired, ask Jesus to help you. He will. — Father John Muir ©LPi

This weekend we had our Christ Renews Us retreat for the men of St. Sebastian. What an amazing weekend!!! We thank everyone in one way or the other made CRU Retreat a huge success!!!

Sign Before the Gospel Question: I have been going to Mass for years and have always wondered: why do we make the three signs of the cross before the Gospel? Answer: Certainly, many people go to Mass or other devotions, doing and saying things out of habit or reverence and not really understanding the reasons behind some of these things. But everything we do has a meaning or purpose that helps us to worship better, proclaim our beliefs, or focus the attention of the people on something that has a greater importance or significance. A review of the meaning of various gestures and practices can help us have a deeper appreciation for what we do. There is a little prayer that goes with the three crosses before the Gospel: “May the words of the Holy Gospel be on my mind, on my lips and in my heart.” In standing to hear the Gospel, we acknowledge that Jesus is present, and the words of the Gospel are addressed to us. All of the gestures and special postures we adopt before the Gospel are intended to help us prepare for hearing the Word as well as act on it. The incense, the Alleluia, the deacon or priest, and the special dialogue and announcement that introduces the Gospel help us focus our attention on the Good News we are about to hear. The three signs of the cross show our desire and good intention to hear and live the Gospel. ©LPi

This Sunday, we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday, inspired by St. Faustina’s revelations and marking the close of the Easter Octave. As we reflect on God’s endless mercy, consider going to confession this weekend to fully embrace the grace of this special day. Jesus, we trust in You! Exposition of the Blessed Eucharist and adoration with Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3:00 pm on Sunday.

Easter Blessing — Dear Lord, Where there has been death, bring new life! Renew and redeem the sorrow in our stories with Your goodness and grace. Bless our hearts and homes this Easter and always. Amen.

Virtues, EXPLAINED! The cardinal virtue of justice has to do with the fulfillment of our duty to one another and to God. It gives us a framework for existing in the world alongside one another, in reverence with our respective rights, property, and obligations.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK — Both the angel of the Lord and the risen Jesus greet Mary Magdalene and the other Mary with these words of comfort: “Do not be afraid.” Who in your circle of friends or family needs to be comforted this week?

INSPIRATION FOR THE WEEK — The disciples didn’t understand, at first, what happened at the tomb. Often, we can’t fathom the purpose of God’s plan. We only see a stone in the wrong place. When we pause and look deeper, we see it: God has moved the stone. So, we must ask ourselves: why?

Easter Egg Hunt 2026

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE April 5, 2026 Easter Sunday John 20:1-9 Zander Price was the fastest kid at my grade school. He won every race on Field Day. To me, his swiftness meant he was the greatest. Zander was the best. It’s the same with the speediest Apostle on Easter morning. John tells us he “ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first.” (John 20:4) But only after Peter entered did John go in, see the burial cloths, and believe. Here is a symbol of two dimensions of the Church. John, the beloved disciple, represents the contemplative, mystical life: affection, prayer, intimacy. Peter, the rock, represents the Church’s institutional life: steady, authoritative, structured…but slower. Of course, John runs faster! Love is the heartbeat of Christian faith, so love will always arrive first. Peter’s role is, in a sense, secondary. He arrives later, but is still very much needed. John waits for him. The Church must be built, balanced, protected, and led. Love without structure can vanish; structure without love becomes lifeless. This dynamic is not just historical — it is personal. In you, there is a John who longs to run to the tomb in love. Let him run! Pray, sing, love Jesus. There is also a Peter, who eventually gets to the tomb and takes charge. The Risen Christ wants both. Remember: if you want to get to the mystery of Jesus’ resurrection fast…love him, for love is best. — Father John Muir ©LPi

Easter Vigil 2026

Happy Easter

HOLY SATURDAY (NO CONFESSIONS AND VIGIL MASS) 10:00 am Blessing of Food (CRY ROOM) 7:30 pm Paschal Vigil

Today, on Good Friday, we commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus. It's a day of fasting, praying the Stations of the Cross, and participating in the solemn liturgy of the Lord's Passion. It is the only day in the entire liturgical year when Mass isn't celebrated. GOOD FRIDAY 3:00 PM -PASSION FOLOWED BY COMMUNAL MEAL AT LESAGE HALL 7:00 PM -PASSION PLAY AT THE CHURCH

Eucharistic Procession on Maundy Thursday ….Rain stopped right on time for our procession

This Holy Thursday, we remember the Last Supper and honor Jesus' divine example of servant leadership. On this holy day, we mark the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood, beginning the sacred Easter Triduum. HOLY THURSDAY 6:00 -PM LORD’S SUPPER ADORATION WILL COONINTUE IN THE LESAGE HALL UNTIL 10:00 PM

Today starts the Paschal Triduum, the most solemn three-day period in the Roman Catholic liturgical year. It begins with the Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday and concludes with the Easter celebration on Sunday. We invite you to join us for these most sacred feast days! HOLY THURSDAY 9:00 -AM HOLY MASS 6:00 -PM LORD’S SUPPER ADORATION WILL COONINTUE IN THE LESAGE HALL UNTIL 10:00 PM GOOD FRIDAY 3:00 PM -PASSION FOLOWED BY COMMUNAL MEAL AT LESAGE HALL 7:00 PM -PASSION PLAY AT THE CHURCH HOLY SATURDAY (NO CONFESSIONS AND VIGIL MASSES ON HOLY SATURDAY) 10:00 am Blessing of Food (CRY ROOM) 7:30 pm Paschal Vigil EASTER SUNDAY 7:30 am Easter Mass 9:30 am Easter Mass 9:45 am Easter Mass (Lesage Hall) 11:30 am Easter Mass

TENEBRAE SERVICE A Tenebrae service (Latin for "darkness" or "shadows") is a profoundly contemplative Holy Week service that commemorates the final hours of Jesus's life, from his betrayal to his burial. Tonight from 7:00 pm at St. Sebastian Catholic Church. All are welcome.

THE LIVING LAST SUPPER. Today 6:00 PM, LeSage Hall- All ages are welcome. By The Christ United Methodist Church Players, Palm Bay.

GOSPEL MEDITATION - ENCOURAGE DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SCRIPTURE March 29, 2026 Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord Matthew 26:14-27:66 Just prior to this week’s Passion narrative in St. Matthew’s Gospel, there is a small, striking story describing a woman’s scandalous action toward Jesus: “A woman came up to him with an alabaster jar of costly perfumed oil, and poured it on his head” (Matthew 26:7). The ointment was pure nard, worth more than 300 denarii. A year’s wages. Maybe a dowry, maybe a family inheritance. In any case, she breaks it. She does not measure or ration. She pours it all out, irreversibly, over Jesus. Why does this image begin Holy Week? Because what she does with the jar, Jesus will soon do with his life. The jar must be broken so the fragrance can be released. Jesus’ body will be broken so his priceless divine and human love can be poured out. She gives everything, just as he is about to give everything. And He sees it: “She has done a good thing for me” (Matthew 26:10). Her act is lavish, impractical, scandalous in its apparent wastefulness. And he loves it. It is what Holy Week is all about. What jar are you still holding onto? Your time? Your comfort? Your plan for how life should go? Don’t just wave palms today. Let yourself be broken open so your love, too, can be poured out. Lenten Challenge: Offer something costly to Jesus this Holy Week — not out of guilt, but love. Your attention. Your forgiveness. Your time. Break the jar. Trust that nothing poured out for him is ever wasted. — Father John Muir ©LPi

Meditation on the last seven words of Jesus from the cross. It was done by our CCD children and teachers.

Why Kneel? Question: Why do we kneel at Mass? Answer: Since the beginnings of the Church, kneeling has been a key posture of prayer. We see Sts. Peter and Paul in the Acts of the Apostles kneeling in prayer. Early in the 4th century, the Council of Nicea prohibited kneeling on Sundays and special feasts. Kneeling began more as a posture of penance for our sins, but in the history of the Church, it has become more a posture or reverence and solemn prayer. You will notice that the times we kneel at Mass are tied to the consecration of the holy Eucharist. We kneel in both anticipation of what will occur and then in awe of what has taken place: Jesus Christ becomes truly present to us under the guise of bread and wine. The profoundness of this event has over time led the Church to mandate in the current General Instruction of the Roman Missal that kneeling is the only posture allowed during this time. The sheer awesomeness of the holy Eucharist leads us to fall to our knees in wonder and thanksgiving. ©LPi

This weekend is Palm Sunday — the start of Holy Week! Lenten Challenge: Offer something costly to Jesus this Holy Week — not out of guilt, but love. Your attention. Your forgiveness. Your time. Break the jar. Trust that nothing poured out for Him is ever wasted.

Blessing for New Life — God, in Your goodness, restore our hope. Where we feel imprisoned, break our chains. Where we feel discouraged, bring us light. Where the ground feels dry, break through with life anew. Amen.

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