Renewed in Faith and Hope

Reflecting on 44 Years of ‘Joyful’ Priestly Ministry

As I approach the anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood on March 27, 1982 (and as we prepare for the Chrism Mass when priests will renew their ordination promises), I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude. Recently, I came across the remarks I gave at the dinner following my Ordination Mass. Reading those words again after 44 years brought back many memories, but what struck me most was how much of my message is still relevant today. Above all, my words were about gratitude. Gratitude to God, to my family, to those who helped form me, and to the many people who supported me along the way.

I remember saying that day that even if I had to start my life over, I would still want to become a priest. I spoke about the incredible gift of the priesthood. Not just as a personal calling, but as a gift meant to be shared with others. It is a gift given for the good of the Church and the people we are called to serve. That sense of joy and purpose I felt on the day of my ordination continues to inspire me today.

Looking back, I have always believed that God was guiding my path. There were many moments in my life that I could never have planned myself, and I came to see that God was writing the story. The more I have tried to trust in His plan and live according to His will, the more I have found happiness and peace. I have always tried to live my priesthood with gratitude and joy, using the gifts God gave me to serve others. When I was appointed a bishop, I remember one headline describing me as a “joyful priest,” and I believe that joy comes from knowing you are where God has called you to be.

Some of the most powerful confirmations of that calling have come during moments of great difficulty. I remember celebrating the Funeral Mass of an infant who had suddenly passed away – leaving the parents who had waited for a long time to have a child – in pain and sorrow. In situations like that, there are no easy words. Yet I learned that simply being present can bring some form of comfort. Such as walking with a family in their grief from their home to the funeral home, to the church, and to the cemetery. These are powerful moments when we can help make God’s presence real in people’s lives. In those moments, I felt strongly that God had placed me there because someone needed a priest to walk with them in their suffering.

After 44 years, what continues to inspire me to say “yes” to my vocation is the same simple desire that first led me to the priesthood. To serve God by serving His people. The call to be present to others, especially in their moments of need, remains at the heart of priestly ministry. For that gift, and for the many people who have allowed me to share in their lives and their faith, I remain deeply grateful. Above all, I thank God for the privilege of this vocation and for the opportunity, each day, to continue saying “yes.”

When Mothers Pray, the Church Grows Stronger

It was a joy to again celebrate Mass this past weekend with the “Mothers Who Pray for Their Children” movement. The church was filled with mothers from across Massachusetts, especially from many of the Brazilian Catholic communities, along with a few who traveled from throughout New England. The participation of priests from Brazil and New Hampshire, together with leaders of the movement, was a powerful reminder of how faith brings people together across cultures and great distances. What struck me most was the joy, enthusiasm, and deep sense of mutual support among these mothers as they came together to pray for their children and for one another.

In my homily, I reflected on the Gospel accounts of the raising of Lazarus, when Martha and Mary appear as examples of faith and trust in God.

Gathering as One Diocesan Family at the Chrism Mass

During Holy Week, we gather for one of the most meaningful liturgies of the year, the Chrism Mass. I invite the faithful of our Diocese to join us on Tuesday, March 31, at 4 p.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fall River. At this special Mass, our priests will renew the commitment they made at their ordinations and the holy oils used in the sacraments throughout the year will be blessed. As we continue Year Two of our diocesan initiative, Stronger Priests, Stronger Parishes, Stronger Church, we are mindful of the many individuals (parish staff, deacons, religious, and countless faithful men and women) who support the ministry of our priests and help build up the Body of Christ. The Chrism Mass is a beautiful opportunity for us to gather as one diocesan family in prayer and unity, and I hope you will consider joining us for this sacred celebration as we prepare for the Easter Triduum.. 

Walking in the Footsteps of Christ During Holy Week

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, the most sacred time in the Church’s liturgical year. As we remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, we also begin the journey that leads us to the crucifixion and ultimately to the joy of Easter. The palms we carry remind us not only of celebration but also of our call to follow Christ faithfully, even through suffering and sacrifice. As we enter holy week, may we open our hearts more fully to prayer, reflection, and gratitude for the saving love of Jesus Christ.

Five Smooth Stones for the Journey of Faith

In this week’s blog, I am pleased to welcome Fr. Matthew Laird from St. Anne’s Parish in Raynham, who shares a Lenten reflection from a retreat with those preparing to receive the sacraments at Easter. He reminds us that while we all face struggles and spiritual battles, we are never alone. As we continue our Lenten journey, Fr. Laird encourages us to draw closer to Christ, trusting that the Lord gives us the strength and grace to overcome every challenge.

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha