Dear friends,

As we journey through the Sixth Sunday of Easter, the Church draws us ever closer to the great celebrations of the Ascension and Pentecost. These coming feasts remind us that Christ does not abandon His people but continues to guide and strengthen us through the gift of the Holy Spirit.

This Sunday also coincides with Mother's Day, offering us a beautiful opportunity to reflect with gratitude on the women who have shaped our lives. We give thanks for our mothers and for all those women who have nurtured, protected, and supported us with quiet strength and enduring love. Their sacrifices are often unseen yet deeply felt. Beyond the flowers and celebrations, the most meaningful gift we can offer is our prayer- entrusting them to God's care, both the living and those who have gone before us. May those who have passed rest in the peace of Christ.

The readings this Sunday invite us to reflect not only on gratitude, but also on mission. Each of us, by virtue of our baptism, is called to share the Gospel. While most of us are not sent to distant lands, we are all sent in a very real way-to our homes, workplaces, schools, and communities- to bring the hope and light of Christ to others.

This task can feel daunting. Sharing our faith is not always easy, and we may hesitate out of fear of rejection or uncertainty about what to say. The experience of Philip in the Acts of the Apostles reminds us that such fears are not new. Entering Samaria-a place marked by division and mistrust-Philip could not have predicted how he would be received. Yet, through his faithful witness, hearts were opened, lives were transformed, and great joy followed. That joy was not the result of Philip's own abilities, but the work of the Holy Spirit.

In today's Gospel, Jesus reassures His disciples-and us-"l will not leave you orphans." We are not alone in our mission. The Holy Spirit, the

Advocate, accompanies us, giving us the words, the courage, and the strength we need.

Saint Peter offers practical guidance for this mission: we are to be ready to give a reason for our hope. This readiness comes from a living relationship with Christ-nurtured through prayer, Scripture, and active participation in the life of the Church. At the same time, Peter reminds us that our witness must be marked by gentleness and reverence. We are not called to argue or impose, but to invite and to accompany.

Indeed, the most convincing proclamation of the Gospel is not found in words alone, but in the way we live. When we act with love, forgive generously, remain faithful in difficulties, and serve others with humility, we make Christ visible in our world.

None of us does this perfectly. We all fall short at times. Yet we take comfort in knowing that the work of conversion belongs ultimately to God. The Holy Spirit is already at work in the hearts of those we encounter. Our responsibility is simply to be faithful-to witness, to love, and to trust.

As we honor our mothers this weekend, may we also be inspired by their example of self-giving love. And may we renew our commitment to share that same love-the love of Christ-with all those we meet.

With courage, gentleness, and trust, let us go forward, confident that we are never alone. The Spirit of God is with us.

I love you!

Yours in Christ, Fr. Robert Aliunzi Pastor

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