March for Life 2024

This year, just like every other year, our diocese attended March for Life in Washington D.C., advocating for the sanctity of life and the unborn! The trip was led by Bishop Francis Kalabat, Fr. Rodney Abasso, Fr. John Jaddou, and Fr. Marcus Shammami, along with a large group of people from all parishes within our diocese and from parishes in California and Arizona as well. Along with thousands of others, our group peacefully prayed and protested for the lives of all the unborn.

On Thursday, January 18, Bishop Francis celebrated Mass at Immaculate Conception Church, where confessions were heard after Mass and Eucharistic adoration took place afterwards. On Friday, January 19, Mass was celebrated at St. Dominic Catholic Church and our group prayed the rosary on our way to the march. On Saturday, January 20, His Excellency, along with Fr. Rodney Abasso, celebrated one final Mass in the Immaculate Heart of Mary chapel at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

We continue to pray fervently to Mother Mary to intercede on behalf of all the unborn children; let us continue to pray for an end to abortion everywhere! 

To view photos from the March:

The Feast of the Epiphany (Denha)

Feast Day of the Epiphany of The Lord (Denha)

Epiphany Pic

Each year on January 6, we celebrate the Feast Day of the Epiphany of our Lord Jesus, also known as Denha.

 This feast day commemorates Jesus’ baptism and the manifestation of His divinity. The term “Epiphany” is derived from the Greek word meaning “manifestation” or “appearance.” It symbolizes the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. 

The Epiphany also holds deep significance in the context of Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist in the River Jordan. Despite John being reluctant to be the one to baptize Jesus, Jesus insisted that he do it. This signifies his identification with humanity and the beginning of his public ministry. As Jesus emerged from the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit of God descended upon him like a dove, accompanied by a voice from heaven declaring, “This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17) 

The baptism of Jesus serves as a pivotal moment in His life, showing His obedience to God’s plan and the affirmation of His divine nature. Further, it symbolizes purification, initiation, and a commissioning for His mission to redeem humanity. 

As we start this new year, let us celebrate this feast day with an open heart and an open mind. This feast day should serve as a reminder to all of us of the light and hope that Jesus brings to humanity. Lord, hear our prayers!