Father Dave Preaches

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave preaches his first homily of the Danube River pilgrimage, and reflects on rest in today’s Gospel. He reminds us that God mandates us to rest, and that we’re called to bring the Lord our burdens to be spiritually renewed. Preached at St. Benno in Munich, Germany on 07-09-23

Monday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses how God calls Abraham far out of his comfort zone by asking him to move to a new place. When God asks us to change or leave something behind, we’re reminded to follow in Abraham’s footsteps and trust God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 06-26-23

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave focuses on Jeremiah’s laments in the First Reading, and how our beliefs will sometimes be unpopular when living out our faith. God calls us to be prophets, even if we’re disliked for spreading the Gospel. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 06-25-23

Memorial of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, Religious. Father Dave analyzes St. Paul’s words in today’s First Reading regarding how God calls us to be “cheerful givers.” We are called to be generous in all facets of our lives, even if just through simple moments. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 06-21-23

Monday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave connects today’s readings with our human desire to procrastinate. We’re called to build up the kingdom of God now and avoid looking for an excuse to wait. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 06-19-23

Vigil of the Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave invites us to think of our dearest Earthly possession and to realize how God values us even more. We are sent forth, just like the disciples, to proclaim the kingdom and help bring all people closer to God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 06-17-23

Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua. Father Dave reflects on today’s First Reading in which Saint Paul challenges us to say “yes” to God without reservation. Father Dave notes how this is a straightforward though difficult call, and we give this “yes” many times in our lives of faith. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 06-13-23

Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. While preaching at an outdoor Mass and procession, Father Dave calls us to fully recognize the gift of the Eucharist. He describes Christ’s true presence in the form of bread and wine, as we enter year two of our National Eucharistic Revival. Preached at Carroll Park, Brooklyn, NY on 06-11-23

Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. Father Dave underscores that it’s not as important to understand the Trinity academically as it is to focus on God’s love through the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He challenges us to not be obstinate or “stiff-necked” as expressed in today’s readings, and to fully take in just how much the Lord loves his people. Preached at St. Austin Church, Austin, TX on 06-04-23

Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Father Dave reflects on today’s feast and the theme of close friendship in the readings. He notes how the first reading calls us to live out all aspects of Christianity in love, and not just pick and choose the parts we like. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-31-23

Pentecost Sunday. Father Dave explains how the Holy Spirit is meant to both unify us and challenge us. He calls us to be more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-27-23

Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter. Father Dave shares his sadness and disgust surrounding Illinois’ sexual abuse investigation in the Church, and reflects on how it directly connects to today’s readings. He echos St. Paul and Jesus’ words that priests are specifically called to watch over the flock of the Lord, and how disappointing it is to hear of these failings. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-24-23

Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter. Father Dave focuses on St. Paul’s travels in Acts of the Apostles, and how, in our modern world, we often resist change, even if it’s good. He invites us to have the courage to say "yes" when God invites us to something new. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-22-23

Monday of the Fifth Week of Easter. Father Dave describes Saint Paul’s early ministry work, and how he and Saint Barnabas were mistaken for gods. Just like them, we are empowered to do the work of God in our world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-08-23

Fifth Sunday of Easter. Father Dave reflects on the images of stones in today’s readings, as well as the “Stone of Destiny” used in King Charles’ coronation this weekend. We are called to build up the kingdom as the living stones of God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-07-23

Feast of Saints Philip and James. Father Dave describes how handing on our faith is integral to us as a Christian community. He challenges us to follow the Apostles’ example and pass the faith to those in our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-03-23

Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter. Father Dave focuses on Peter’s words in today’s readings, and how we consciously and unconsciously try to limit God. Rather than choose our own way, we are called to trust in the Lord and let him lead. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 05-01-23

Fourth Sunday of Easter. Father Dave reflects on what to do when Scripture doesn’t resonate with us. In times when we don’t feel God’s joy and abundance, we are called even more to serve others. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 04-30-23

Monday of the Third Week of Easter. Father Dave discusses the story of Saint Stephen from today’s readings, and how he serves as a model for us. If we dive deeper into our faith, the Holy Spirit will help us encounter God in our daily lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 04-24-23

Friday in the Octave of Easter. While preaching on a cruise, Father Dave describes the apostles after Jesus’ resurrection. They returned to their old lives in a new way, and Jesus calls us to do the same after a vacation or inspiring moment. Preached while serving as Chaplain of a Cruise Ship on 04-14-23