Dear Parishioners of Saint Polycarp,
This weekend, the Church marks the end of Her liturgical year with the solemnity of Christ the King. The end of the liturgical year means that a new liturgical Season of Advent is approaching. It also means that the Gospel of Mark from Cycle B, which we are proclaiming this weekend, will be shift to the Gospel of Luke from Cycle C.
The conclusion of the liturgical year with the solemnity of Christ the King tells us that at the end of times Christ Our Savior is Lord and King. He is the Alpha and the Omega ~ the Beginning and the End (Rev 1: 8). However, the Gospel today seems to point out a contrary—that is, Jesus who is the King is being questioned and judged by Pilate who said, “Are you the king of the Jews?” (Jn 18: 33b).
Imagine this scenario of Pilate and Jesus: Pilate, a Roman governor of Judea, questioned and judged Jesus, the King of the Universe. Yet, the response from Jesus accentuates and reveals to Pilate of His identity: “You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listen to my voice” (Jn 18:37).
The question of Pilate to Jesus still exists in our times today. There are people who question our Catholic identity. I hope and pray that we be like Jesus—that is, to have the courage and the firm faith to say: “I belong to Christ. In and through Christ, I was born and baptized; and for Christ I will return to Him, my King and Savior”.
Moreover, as we approach the holiday of Thanksgiving, remember to give thanks to God for yourself and your family. Also know that we your parish priests thank God for your love and support of this family of Saint Polycarp.
May God through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, Saint Joseph, and the Patron Saint Polycarp bless and watch over you always.
Father Viet Peter Ho, Pastor
Fathers Luis Segura and Nicolaus Thai, Parochial Vicars
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