We hear about the famous Zacchaeus in today’s Gospel. He was the chief tax collector and a wealthy man, and probably not a popular individual. It is interesting to follow how he could not see Jesus and so he ran ahead and even climbed a tree. Jesus sees him and to the surprise of the crowd, invites Zacchaeus to come down out of the tree and tells him that he is going to stay at his house. You can only imagine the reaction from the crowd. We get an idea of the reaction when they begin grumbling and say that he is going to the “house of a sinner.” Zacchaeus now has a chance to tell Jesus what positive things he is going to do: give half of his possessions to the poor and if he has extorted anyone, he will repay the person four times over.” Something beyond reason has happened to Zacchaeus… all of because of Jesus’ non-judgmental, accepting approach.

On Monday evening at 7:00 PM we will celebrate our annual All Souls Mass of Remembrance. Bring a photo of your loved one to place before the altar during the Mass. This is a special Mass
especially for those who were not able to attend the funeral of a loved one or those who died recently. See the announcement here.

This Wednesday, November 6, I will leave with 42 Pilgrims to visit some of the shrines and historical sites in France. We will have in many of these places and we always pray for those back , our benefactors, and our friends for health and blessings. fly to Geneva and travel into France from that direction. Please us in your prayers for a safe and inspiring pilgrimage.

-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.