Faith and Works

Dear friends on the journey,

Imagine being in a relationship – a marriage, friendship, professional - that was one sided, where you feel like you put in the time, energy, and work but get very little in return. They say things like “I love you: or “I value our friendship” but the other person never does anything to back up those words, never demonstrates in small or big gestures that they’re invested in your relationship. I think we can all agree with the expression “actions speak louder than words.”

The author of James, our second reading today, seems to be saying something similar about our faith. In verse 17, he says, “faith without works is dead.” Our Catechism teaches that faith “is a gift of God, a supernatural virtue infused by him” through the sacrament of baptism. Faith requires from us “a personal act – the free response of the human person to the initiative of God who reveals himself.”

Indeed our faith is a gift from God, one that brings us into a relationship with God, with Jesus, and with the Holy Spirit. This is the most important relationship we have, one we ought to be investing in daily. This relationship is meant to be experienced and lived in words and action. Our actions, our works express, honor, and reflect our commitment and gratitude to God.

If you watched any old Kung Fu movies, you will see a disciple is someone who goes up a mountain to learn from the master, grows to believe in him, love him, learn and understand his ways, and faithfully serve the master.

Jesus wants committed disciples and co-workers in the vineyard. He does not need fans or to be idolized. He has no desire for spectators nor lip service in this relationship. As it is with us, words of love, appreciation and praise are not enough for Jesus. He wants the commitment and seriousness of our relationship with him demonstrated by our works.

On Sundays, September 29 and October 6, we will have our annual ministry fair so you can see all that our parish offers to grow in faith and discipleship. We have ministries to encounter Jesus personally and intimately, as well as ministries to serve and work in the vineyard. No matter where you are in your relationship with God, no matter your level of commitment of time and energy or your experience, Padre Serra has a ministry for you. Mark your calendar for both Sundays to stay after Mass and visit the ministries.
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In these coming weeks ahead of the ministry fair, I invite you to give serious prayer and consideration to these questions: Am I simply a Jesus fan, saying all the right words?

Or can I call myself a committed disciple? Am I willing to trek up the mountain to study and learn from Jesus, in order to become like him, love like him, and to serve him? To what work might God be calling me right now?


See you there!


Siempre Adelante,


Teresa Runyon
​Pastoral Associate 

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