Father Dave Preaches

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses how we are often surprised by literal and metaphorical storms in our lives. He asks who Jesus is for us, especially during difficult times, and how we can share that witness with others. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-23-24

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. While preaching in Italy, Father Dave reflects on how the Kingdom of God starts small, but continues to grow today. God will help our faith flourish, even if we feel stagnant at times. Preached at St. Patrick's Catholic American Parish in Rome, Italy on 06-16-24

Monday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave notes how we rely on online reviews to feel confident before purchasing a product or service. We can find similar comfort knowing that God who made the heavens and the Earth is also by our side. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-10-24

Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave breaks his homily into two sections, first explaining common misconceptions from today’s readings. Then, he reflects on the story of Adam and Eve, and how God also asks us where we are in our faith journey. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-09-24

Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr. Father Dave relates St. Paul’s words to Timothy to a recent evening spent around a fire pit. We have to fan the flames of faith in our life, just as we’d stoke the embers of a bonfire. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-05-24

Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and companions, martyrs. Father Dave reflects on how often we ask God for things. Today’s readings remind us how God has given us all we need to be convicted in our faith. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-03-24

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. Father Dave recalls movies from the 1980s where friends would become “blood brothers.” In a similar way, Christ bonds himself to us through the crucifixion. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-02-24

Seventh Sunday of Easter. Father Dave asks us to imagine our reaction if we were named an Apostle. We may not feel qualified to serve the Church, but God provides us with the proper skills if we say yes. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 05-12-24

Monday of the Sixth Week of Easter. Father Dave reflects on women in the Church and specifically spotlights Lydia from today’s readings. Lydia reminds us how to worship God, practice humility, and spread hospitality while living our faith. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 05-06-24

Sunday of the Fifth Week of Easter. Father Dave uses Aspen trees to help us understand Jesus’ words about the vine and branches. We are connected in the body of Christ, and are called to abide in God to bear fruit. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-28-24

Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter. Father Dave notes that the first thing he does when planning travel is book a place to stay. Similarly, Jesus preparing a place for us in heaven helps us focus on living out the Christian life. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-26-24

Tuesday of the Third Week of Easter. Father Dave reflects on the two-step process to being a Christian that is detailed in the Acts of the Apostles today. We are called to both give our lives to God and to receive grace. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-16-24

Wednesday of the Second Week of Easter. Father Dave connects today’s readings about people seeking darkness to this week’s solar eclipse. We’re called to embrace the light and embrace hope, even if it’s uncomfortable and shows our flaws. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-10-24

Wednesday in the Octave of Easter. While preaching on the story of the Road to Emmaus in today’s readings, Father Dave reflects on how some people today still have not heard the good news of Jesus. It is now up to us, as disciples, to spread Easter joy. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-03-24

Holy Saturday at the Easter Vigil in the Holy Night of Easter. Father Dave focuses on two Latin words: “Consummatum Est,” which translate to Jesus’ last words, “It is finished.” Jesus has accomplished his work on Earth, but now our mission as children of God is just beginning. Preached at Cathedral of St. Andrew, Grand Rapids, MI on 03-30-24

Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion. Father Dave notes how we shy away from suffering and death in our modern world. We venerate the cross because Jesus takes away the eternal suffering that we deserve. Preached at Cathedral of St. Andrew, Grand Rapids, MI on 03-29-24

Holy Thursday, Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. Father Dave discusses the importance of meals, but also notes how John’s Gospel account focuses on Jesus washing the apostles’ feet. The Eucharist is nourishment but also an assignment for us to go and serve others. Preached at Cathedral of St. Andrew, Grand Rapids, MI on 03-28-24

Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent. Father Dave shares his pet peeve: when people use the word “truth” as an excuse to say unkind words. Jesus reminds us that he is the way, truth, and life, and the only thing that can set us free. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-20-24

Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent. Father Dave describes how solutions in our faith are often basic. God often appears in small ways, and we’re called to not overlook those experiences. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-04-24