Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 18, 2016 – Year C
Readings: Am 8:4-7 / Ps 113 / 1 Tm 2:1-8 / Lk 16:1-13
by Rev. Salvador Añonuevo, Pastor 

Sometime in the past we may have heard someone ask if it is really possible to experience complete peace and serenity.  Many will say that this could probably only happen in our dreams.  But today’s second reading, which is taken from the First Letter of St. Paul to Timothy, tells us otherwise.  The Apostle gave us the formula on how to attain it when he wrote, “I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life.” 

The good news for all of us gathered here today in the sanctuary of Holy Name of Mary is that we are doing just that.  We are all praying.  The challenge, of course, is how to continue doing it as we go forth after the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and how to incorporate prayer into our daily lives.   

Those of us who have visited a monastery can attest that the monks are classic examples of those who not only have a peaceful life, but are serenity personified.  What’s their secret?  It is not because they live in a secluded place and away from all the distractions of the world.  There are people who also live in seclusion, but they are neither peaceful nor joyful.   Those who are in Prison Ministry know this.  So what are the monks doing to experience serenity 24/7?  It is because they pray all the time.  Literally, all the time.   

Last week, Bishop Bastes told me that he really enjoyed visiting and talking to a 101-year old woman in the Philippine Islands who doesn’t worry at all.  She seems not to be bothered by any problems in this life, and she is always at peace and joyful.  Her secret?  Just like the monks, she is praying all the time.  Whether she is awake or asleep, she is always holding the Rosary in her hands.  

I have the privilege of knowing this 101-year old woman that the Bishop is talking about, because she happens to be my mother.  And some of you here met her five years ago. 

Yes, it is possible, with God’s help, to live in peace and tranquility in this world.  All we have to do is follow St. Paul’s advice: Pray always.  In Chapter 4 of his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle said, “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your request known to God.  Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”