There is one point we all can agree on which is found in Numbers 23:19: “God is not a human being who speaks falsely, nor a mortal who feels regret. Is God one to speak and not act, to decree and not bring it to pass?” We also read in 1 Kings 18:21, “Elijah approached all the people and said, ‘How long will you straddle the issue? If the Lord is God, follow Him; if Baal, follow him.’ But the people did not answer him.”
Let me begin by thanking our own Bishop Peter J. Jugis for his goodness, holiness and service to God and his Church. However, after I gave this homily below for the fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Feb. 3, I was caught off guard by the overwhelming response of the faithful. With their many comments after the Masses, I discovered a real disappointment in the bishops of the United States, and an incredible and genuine desire for their leadership.