from the Pastor's Desk

Jesus calls us to an awareness of the joy that comes to those who fulfill their task of proclaiming the kingdom.

The end of the Gospel offers promise of the reward that awaits those who labor faithfully in God's vineyard.

Jesus sends the disciples on a mission and offers them concrete advice that will focus them on their task and sustain them in their work. They will go out like lambs among wolves, and there always will be fewer workers than the needs of the harvest, so they should raise up prayers to God for more willing servants like themselves.

Jesus tells them, and us, that the greatest joy comes not from having spirits obey them, but in finding their names "written in heaven."