12TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
June 21, 2026
REFLECTION ON TODAY'S READING
Do Not Be Afraid!
Today we can begin this new day with joy because of your Resurrection.
In the Gospel, a word of encouragement and comfort awaits us: “Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.” (Mt 10:26–33)
Where do we sometimes lack confidence in our own worth? We can become aware that God loves us and cares for us. Fear can give way to trust in His presence.
United with the people of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, we live this day as prayer.
Under the directive from the Diocese of Honolulu
St. Joseph Church has set up an egiving program to allow parishioners and guests an easier way to give. It will also allow the donors to: 1. Give from anywhere using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. 2. No need to find a check or stop by the ATM. 3. Use your Checking/Savings Account or your Debit/Credit Card. 4. Schedule gifts to occur automatically. Click on the give now link or on your phone using my parish app. “All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the Lord your God.” Deuteronomy 16:17
Online donations may be made at any time from the comfort of your own home or any place with internet access. Online donations are credited to your tax statement for the end of the year (except when made anonymously)and you can change your account preferences and donation amounts at any time.
Saint Joseph Church Makawao - Bulletin
The Gospel Reading, Matthew 10:26-33
Jesus assures the Twelve that God cares about them .
We read today’s Gospel in the context of last week’s Gospel in which Jesus sent the twelve disciples to proclaim the kingdom of heaven. In between last week’s reading and today’s reading, Jesus has predicted that the disciples will face difficulties in their mission. Many people will not receive them well, even within the land of Israel. Even family members will turn away from the disciples because of the disciples’ commitment to Jesus and the kingdom. Today’s Gospel offers the disciples consolation against this difficult truth.
This section of Matthew’s Gospel should be read in the context of Matthew’s intended audience, a Jewish-Christian community. The Gospel alludes to the dangers and persecutions that this community has most likely already faced and will continue to face. To reassure this community, Matthew recalls for them the encouraging words of Jesus that we read today.
In this Gospel passage, Jesus might be understood as putting suffering in perspective. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to keep their focus on God. Those who can harm the body do not have ultimate power; God does. Still persecution and suffering can not be avoided or prevented. But Jesus reassures his disciples that God knows and cares about what happens to his children.
We might not face the same type of persecution, but we do experience difficulties as we endeavor to live a Christian life. Sometimes we let the opinions of others prevent us from doing what we know to be right. We need the reminder that what God thinks about us is more important. We are reassured by the promise that God cares for us and protects us. .
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(https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/sunday-connection )
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A STEWARDSHIP MOMENT
Jesus minces no words with his disciples: If we acknowledge Jesus publicly, Jesus will remember us before God, our Father. If we deny Jesus, he will forget us. It is very rare that a Christian will denounce Jesus publicly. But we can deny Jesus in more subtle ways. There are many people who conveniently forget all about Jesus Christ and the work of his Kingdom in their daily lives, in moments of weakness, spiritual immaturity or when times get tough. Good stewards strengthen their confession of Christ by praying and attending Mass regularly, examining their lives and going to confession frequently, and reminding themselves daily that Christ resides in them. Take a look at your own daily life. Do you acknowledge Christ before others? How often do you remind yourself that Jesus lives in you?
—— (https://catholicstewardship.com/)
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT
First Thursday of Every Month. Come anytime between 5-6:30 pm.. All are Welcome!
THRIFT SHOP HOURS OF OPERATION
Every Tuesday from 8am - 12 noon, and every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, from 8am-12 noon. Donation drop offs are welcome and greatly appreciated every Monday from 8 - 12 noon, or during normal thrift shop hours.
