Gratitude and Grace: Living Faith in Everyday Moments

10-12-2025Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Parishioners,

We continue our journey through the Gospel of Luke, we’re invited once again to reflect more deeply on what it means to live as people of faith. Last week, Jesus reminded us that faith—even as small as a mustard seed—has the power to do great things. This week, we are called to cultivate another beautiful virtue: gratitude.

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus encounters ten lepers who cry out for mercy. He heals them all, yet only one returns to give thanks. Jesus asks, “Where are the other nine?” It’s a question that echoes in our own lives. How often do we, like those nine, rush back into the busyness of life, forgetting to pause and give thanks to the One who provides all we need?

Gratitude isn’t just a nice sentiment—it’s a sign of spiritual maturity. As our faith deepens, so too does our awareness of God's presence in the ordinary moments of life. I find that even amid the hustle of daily responsibilities, when I try to intentionally stop to notice the simple gifts, the beauty of creation on a quiet walk, the miracle of the Eucharist, the joy of community—I am moved to say, Thank You, God.

One of the most powerful things we can do in prayer is to be specific in our gratitude. What blessings—large or small—can you thank God for today? Whether it's the love of family, the kindness of a stranger, or the peace found in quiet prayer, each moment of gratitude draws us closer to the heart of God.

Modern research even affirms what our faith has long taught: a spirit of thankfulness improves our well-being, lifts our hearts, and strengthens our souls. So, when you find yourself weighed down, frustrated, or overwhelmed, pause... breathe... and find something, anything, to thank God for. Let gratitude become the lens through which you see your life.

I also want to extend a special invitation to Rosary Sunday, which is coming up next weekend on October 19th. This beautiful diocesan celebration honors our Blessed Mother Mary. Details are in the bulletin, but I especially encourage families to attend. Children are often captivated by the pageantry of the Marian procession, and our own parish choir will be leading the prayer through song - a gift to the whole gathering. The Knights of Columbus will also play a meaningful role. It’s a grace-filled opportunity to come together with our wider diocesan family in a spirit of devotion and unity.

Finally, I want to say thank you for your dedication and commitment to our parish community of faith. Every Sunday, we come together around the altar to celebrate the Eucharist, the very word means thanksgiving. What a powerful reminder of who we are and what we’re called to be: a people of deep gratitude and joyful praise.

May God continue to pour out His blessings upon us as we walk this journey of faith together. And may we never forget to stop, notice, and say with full hearts: Thank you, Lord.

With peace, joy, and gratitude in Christ,

Fr. Fred