∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

The following presentation is made possible by the generosity of the viewers of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago.

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Today, we celebrate the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time. My name is Dan Riley. I am joined by Tom McNamara and Morgan Kuhn, and our celebrant is Father Carl Morello.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ How firm a foundation, ∫
∫ you saints of the Lord, ∫
∫ is laid for your faith ∫
∫ in Christ Jesus, the Word! ∫
∫ What more can God say ∫
∫ than to you has been said, ∫
∫ to you who for refuge ∫
∫ to Jesus have fled? ∫

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

The grace, the peace, the love of God be with each of you.
-And with your spirit.

As we gather today to remember how God is with us, we remember God’s mercy and love calling to mind our sins.

Lord Jesus, you came to call us sinners to your mercy. Lord, have mercy.
-Lord, have mercy.

Christ Jesus, we trust your love to heal the wounds of our sin. Christ, have mercy.
-Christ, have mercy.

And Lord Jesus, gathered around this table, you strengthen us with faith and hope. Lord, have mercy.
-Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God who loves us have mercy on us, forgive us any of our sins, and one day bring us to the joy of everlasting life.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Glory to God in the highest, ∫
∫ and on earth peace to people of good will. ∫
∫ Glory to God in the highest, ∫
∫ and on earth peace to people of good will. ∫

Let us pray. Draw near to your servants, O Lord, and answer their prayers with unceasing kindness, that for those who glory in you as their creator and guide, you may restore what you have created and keep safe what you have restored. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever.
-Amen.

A reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah.

Thus says the Lord: All you who are thirsty come to the water. You who have no money come receive grain and eat, come without pain and without cost. Drink wine and milk. Why spend your money for what is not bread? Your wages for what fails to satisfy. Heed me and you shall eat well. You shall delight in rich fare. Come to me heedfully. Listen that you may have life. I will renew with you the everlasting covenant, the benefits assured to David.

The word of the Lord.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫
∫ The Lord is kind and full of compassion, ∫
∫ slow to anger, abounding in mercy. ∫
∫ How good is the Lord to all, ∫
∫ compassionate to all his creatures. ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫

A reading from the letter of Saint Paul to the Romans.

Brothers and sisters: What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or burial, or the sword? No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor heights, nor depths, nor any other creatures will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The word of the Lord.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫
∫ One does not live on bread alone, ∫
∫ but on every word that comes forth ∫
∫ from the mouth of God. ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫

Brothers and sisters in faith, the Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

Ours is a reading now from the holy Gospel according to Matthew.
-Glory to you, O Lord.

When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place. It is already late. Dismiss the crowd so they can go to the village and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said to them, “There is no need for them to go away. Give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Five loaves and two fish are all that we have.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me.” And he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about 5,000 men, not counting the women and children.

The Gospel of the Lord.
-Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Well, this is a very beautiful and familiar Gospel story today. Jesus takes the loaves and two fish, he blesses them, breaks them, gives it to the disciples, and all who ate were satisfied. And because this is a familiar Gospel story, I don’t want us to miss the radical moment in this story. The crowd comes to Jesus tired and hungry and searching. And what the disciples see is scarcity. This isn’t enough. But Jesus sees possibility. Jesus doesn’t deny the hunger, and he doesn’t shame the disciples for their limits. Instead, he says something simple and challenging, “Give them food for yourselves.”

Friends, this miracle isn’t just about food. It’s about trust. And Jesus takes what seems small and inadequate, places it in God’s hands, and shows that love multiplies when it is shared. Love multiplies when it is shared.

Let me share this little story that helps make the point of the Gospel today. There was a teacher who once asked her class to collect food for a local food pantry, and one child brought in a single can of soup, and then apologized to the teacher saying, “I know this isn’t much.” But at the end of the week, the table was overflowing with goods. Now, that one can of soup could not feed everyone by itself, but that one can mattered because it was part of something much bigger.

That’s the message for us as Christians today. We live in a world that is constantly saying, “There isn’t enough.” Enough time, not enough compassion, not enough resources, not enough hope. And we’re tempted to send people away, the poor, the immigrant, the struggling family, the person who doesn’t seem to fit in easily into our lives. But Jesus says to us, “Give them something to eat yourselves.” And what is he saying? Well, what we bring may feel small. It may be a little act of kindness, a word of welcome, a willingness to listen, a commitment to justice, a gift of time or resources. It may seem small, but in the hands of Christ, small offerings become the sign of God’s kingdom among us. And so today, the Eucharist itself reminds us of this truth: ordinary bread, blessed and broken, becomes life for the world.

I think there’s a beautiful saying that captures this Gospel well. God does not ask us to give what we don’t have, but to give what we do have, even if it’s just a little. Or maybe this beautiful saying from Mother Teresa, as she put it, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.”

What I hope you will take from today’s message is simply this: bring what you have, no matter how small. Bring it to Christ and trust that that love shared will never be wasted.

And now in the spirit of trust, we profess in the Apostles’ Creed:

“I believe in one God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father almighty. From there, he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.”

And now in the spirit of trust and confidence in God’s love, we bring our many needs and place them in the heart of God. Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.”

For our Pope and Church leaders, as they spread Christ’s Gospel of love and mercy, may they be safe in their good works. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For those battling addictions, may they recognize the presence of the Lord in their lives, to give them strength to overcome their dependence. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For the youth at Mercy Home, may they find the love and nurturing they need to continue their healing process. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For those who are impoverished and neglected, may others share their talents and resources to provide for them. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

Pray to God, we trust your love for us. Hear the prayer spoken out loud and all we carry in our hearts as we place them before you and pray through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation, through your goodness we have bread to offer, which earth is given, human hands have made, may it become for us the bread of life. Blessed be God forever.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Through the mingling of water and wine, we share the divinity of Christ, who humbled himself to share our humanity. Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation, through your goodness we have wine to offer, fruit of the vine, work of human hands, may it become our spiritual drink. Blessed be God forever.

Lord, wash away my iniquities and cleanse me of all sin.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Pray with me in faith that the gifts of bread and wine offered now be acceptable to our almighty and loving God.
-May the Lord accept the sacrifice at our hands for the praise and glory of God’s name, for our good and the good of all God’s holy Church.

Graciously sanctify these gifts, O Lord, we pray, and accepting the oblation of this spiritual sacrifice, make of us an eternal offering to you through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

The Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

Lift up your hearts.
-We lift them up to the Lord.

And let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
-It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, almighty and eternal God. For we know it belongs to your boundless glory, that you came to the aid of mortal beings with your divinity, and even fashion for us a remedy out of mortality itself, that the cause of our downfall might become the means of our salvation through Christ our Lord. Through him, the host of angels adores your majesty and rejoices in your presence forever. Now may our voices, we pray, join with theirs in this hymn of praise:

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts, ∫
∫ heaven and earth are full of your glory, ∫
∫ hosanna in the highest. ∫
∫ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, ∫
∫ hosanna in the highest. ∫

You are indeed holy, O Lord, the fount of all holiness. Make holy, therefore, these gifts, we pray, by sending down your Spirit upon them like the dewfall, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, he took bread and giving thanks, broke it, gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you eat of it. This is my body given up for you.” In a similar way, when the supper ended, he took the chalice, once more giving thanks. He gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you drink from it. For this is the chalice of my blood, the blood of the new and eternal covenant. It will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.”

The mystery of our faith.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ When we eat this bread and drink this cup, ∫
∫ we proclaim your death, O Lord, ∫
∫ until you come again. ∫

Therefore, as we celebrate now the memorial of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, the bread of life, the chalice of salvation, giving thanks, that you have held us worthy to be in your presence and minister to you. Humbly we pray that partaking of the body and blood of Christ, we may be gathered into one by the Holy Spirit. Remember, Lord, your Church spread throughout the world. Bring her to the fullness of charity, together with Leo our Pope, Blas… our archbishop, and all who minister in your churches everywhere. Remember all our brothers and sisters, those who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection, and all who have died in your mercy. Welcome them into the light of your face. Have mercy on us all, we pray, that with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, with Joseph, her spouse, with the blessed Apostles, and all the saints who have pleased you throughout the ages, we may merit to be co-heirs to eternal life, and one day there praise and glorify you through your Son, Jesus Christ. Through him, with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor are yours, forever and ever.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Amen, amen, amen. ∫

And now with confidence, we join all our prayers into the prayer that Jesus taught: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, and graciously grant peace this day. In your mercy, keep us free from sin. Protect us from anxiety and despair as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your friends, “I leave you peace. My peace I give you.” Look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church. Graciously grant her peace and unity according to your will, who lives and reigns forever and ever.
-Amen.

The peace of the Lord be with you always.
-And with your spirit.

And let us share with each other some gesture or sign of peace.

Peace. And friends, to all of you at home, from all of us here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, we want to extend the peace and the blessing of Christ. Peace be with you.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Have mercy on us. ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Have mercy on us. ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Grant us peace. ∫

We behold now in faith Jesus, the Prince of Peace, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, strengthened our way sharing this supper of the Lamb.
-Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

May the body of Christ, may the blood of Christ keep us safe for everlasting life.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

For those of you at home, please turn to page six in your TV Mass guide and join in singing our communion song, “Be Not Afraid.”

∫ You shall cross the barren desert, ∫
∫ but you shall not die of thirst. ∫
∫ You shall wander far in safety, ∫
∫ though you do not know the way. ∫
∫ You shall speak your words in foreign lands, ∫
∫ and all will understand. ∫
∫ You shall see the face of God and live. ∫
∫ Be not afraid. ∫
∫ I go before you always. ∫
∫ Come, follow me, ∫
∫ and I will give you rest. ∫

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ If you pass through raging waters in the sea, ∫
∫ you shall not drown. ∫
∫ If you walk amid the burning flames, ∫
∫ you shall not be harmed. ∫
∫ If you stand before the power of hell ∫
∫ and death is at your side, ∫
∫ know that I am with you through it all. ∫
∫ Be not afraid. ∫
∫ I go before you always. ∫
∫ Come, follow me, ∫
∫ and I will give you rest. ∫

Let us pray. Accompany with constant protection, O Lord, those you renew with these heavenly gifts, and in your never-failing care for them, make them worthy of eternal redemption through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

I invite you now to join me in the prayer for the children of Mercy Home. Our Lady of Mercy, we pray that you will guide, protect, and bless all boys and girls who this day have a home called Mercy. May they find the Father’s mercy as we offer them our hearts in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. May they see God’s mercy in action through our love, prayers, and sacrifices.

And friends, as we go into the week ahead, think about something that Mother Teresa said that I just love, “We can’t all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.” Where do you need to think about that, remember it, and practice it in the week ahead.

The Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

We bow our heads and ask God’s blessing. Creator God, we give you thanks for this day, for being able to be together in the presence of this Mass, and the words of Scripture. Strengthen us as we go forward to do those small things with great love in your name, as we ask your blessing in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
-Amen.

We go in peace to love and serve God by our care for each other.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Love divine, all loves excelling, ∫
∫ joy of heaven to earth come down, ∫
∫ fix in us your humble dwelling, ∫
∫ all your faithful mercies crown, ∫
∫ Jesus, source of all, compassion… ∫

My friends, I just want to thank you for the ways in which you support the TV Mass here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Let us continue to pray for one another. Please consider making an offering so that we can keep the TV Mass on the air. May God bless you, your family members, and your friends.

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home is generously provided by GIA Publications Incorporated and its World Library Publications division.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

The following presentation is made possible by the generosity of the viewers of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago.

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Today, we celebrate the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time. My name is Dan Riley. I am joined by Tom McNamara and Morgan Kuhn, and our celebrant is Father Carl Morello.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ How firm a foundation, ∫
∫ you saints of the Lord, ∫
∫ is laid for your faith ∫
∫ in Christ Jesus, the Word! ∫
∫ What more can God say ∫
∫ than to you has been said, ∫
∫ to you who for refuge ∫
∫ to Jesus have fled? ∫

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

The grace, the peace, the love of God be with each of you.
-And with your spirit.

As we gather today to remember how God is with us, we remember God’s mercy and love calling to mind our sins.

Lord Jesus, you came to call us sinners to your mercy. Lord, have mercy.
-Lord, have mercy.

Christ Jesus, we trust your love to heal the wounds of our sin. Christ, have mercy.
-Christ, have mercy.

And Lord Jesus, gathered around this table, you strengthen us with faith and hope. Lord, have mercy.
-Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God who loves us have mercy on us, forgive us any of our sins, and one day bring us to the joy of everlasting life.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Glory to God in the highest, ∫
∫ and on earth peace to people of good will. ∫
∫ Glory to God in the highest, ∫
∫ and on earth peace to people of good will. ∫

Let us pray. Draw near to your servants, O Lord, and answer their prayers with unceasing kindness, that for those who glory in you as their creator and guide, you may restore what you have created and keep safe what you have restored. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever.
-Amen.

A reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah.

Thus says the Lord: All you who are thirsty come to the water. You who have no money come receive grain and eat, come without pain and without cost. Drink wine and milk. Why spend your money for what is not bread? Your wages for what fails to satisfy. Heed me and you shall eat well. You shall delight in rich fare. Come to me heedfully. Listen that you may have life. I will renew with you the everlasting covenant, the benefits assured to David.

The word of the Lord.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫
∫ The Lord is kind and full of compassion, ∫
∫ slow to anger, abounding in mercy. ∫
∫ How good is the Lord to all, ∫
∫ compassionate to all his creatures. ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫

A reading from the letter of Saint Paul to the Romans.

Brothers and sisters: What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or burial, or the sword? No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor heights, nor depths, nor any other creatures will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The word of the Lord.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫
∫ One does not live on bread alone, ∫
∫ but on every word that comes forth ∫
∫ from the mouth of God. ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫

Brothers and sisters in faith, the Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

Ours is a reading now from the holy Gospel according to Matthew.
-Glory to you, O Lord.

When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place. It is already late. Dismiss the crowd so they can go to the village and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said to them, “There is no need for them to go away. Give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Five loaves and two fish are all that we have.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me.” And he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about 5,000 men, not counting the women and children.

The Gospel of the Lord.
-Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Well, this is a very beautiful and familiar Gospel story today. Jesus takes the loaves and two fish, he blesses them, breaks them, gives it to the disciples, and all who ate were satisfied. And because this is a familiar Gospel story, I don’t want us to miss the radical moment in this story. The crowd comes to Jesus tired and hungry and searching. And what the disciples see is scarcity. This isn’t enough. But Jesus sees possibility. Jesus doesn’t deny the hunger, and he doesn’t shame the disciples for their limits. Instead, he says something simple and challenging, “Give them food for yourselves.”

Friends, this miracle isn’t just about food. It’s about trust. And Jesus takes what seems small and inadequate, places it in God’s hands, and shows that love multiplies when it is shared. Love multiplies when it is shared.

Let me share this little story that helps make the point of the Gospel today. There was a teacher who once asked her class to collect food for a local food pantry, and one child brought in a single can of soup, and then apologized to the teacher saying, “I know this isn’t much.” But at the end of the week, the table was overflowing with goods. Now, that one can of soup could not feed everyone by itself, but that one can mattered because it was part of something much bigger.

That’s the message for us as Christians today. We live in a world that is constantly saying, “There isn’t enough.” Enough time, not enough compassion, not enough resources, not enough hope. And we’re tempted to send people away, the poor, the immigrant, the struggling family, the person who doesn’t seem to fit in easily into our lives. But Jesus says to us, “Give them something to eat yourselves.” And what is he saying? Well, what we bring may feel small. It may be a little act of kindness, a word of welcome, a willingness to listen, a commitment to justice, a gift of time or resources. It may seem small, but in the hands of Christ, small offerings become the sign of God’s kingdom among us. And so today, the Eucharist itself reminds us of this truth: ordinary bread, blessed and broken, becomes life for the world.

I think there’s a beautiful saying that captures this Gospel well. God does not ask us to give what we don’t have, but to give what we do have, even if it’s just a little. Or maybe this beautiful saying from Mother Teresa, as she put it, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.”

What I hope you will take from today’s message is simply this: bring what you have, no matter how small. Bring it to Christ and trust that that love shared will never be wasted.

And now in the spirit of trust, we profess in the Apostles’ Creed:

“I believe in one God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father almighty. From there, he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.”

And now in the spirit of trust and confidence in God’s love, we bring our many needs and place them in the heart of God. Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.”

For our Pope and Church leaders, as they spread Christ’s Gospel of love and mercy, may they be safe in their good works. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For those battling addictions, may they recognize the presence of the Lord in their lives, to give them strength to overcome their dependence. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For the youth at Mercy Home, may they find the love and nurturing they need to continue their healing process. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For those who are impoverished and neglected, may others share their talents and resources to provide for them. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

Pray to God, we trust your love for us. Hear the prayer spoken out loud and all we carry in our hearts as we place them before you and pray through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation, through your goodness we have bread to offer, which earth is given, human hands have made, may it become for us the bread of life. Blessed be God forever.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Through the mingling of water and wine, we share the divinity of Christ, who humbled himself to share our humanity. Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation, through your goodness we have wine to offer, fruit of the vine, work of human hands, may it become our spiritual drink. Blessed be God forever.

Lord, wash away my iniquities and cleanse me of all sin.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Pray with me in faith that the gifts of bread and wine offered now be acceptable to our almighty and loving God.
-May the Lord accept the sacrifice at our hands for the praise and glory of God’s name, for our good and the good of all God’s holy Church.

Graciously sanctify these gifts, O Lord, we pray, and accepting the oblation of this spiritual sacrifice, make of us an eternal offering to you through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

The Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

Lift up your hearts.
-We lift them up to the Lord.

And let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
-It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, almighty and eternal God. For we know it belongs to your boundless glory, that you came to the aid of mortal beings with your divinity, and even fashion for us a remedy out of mortality itself, that the cause of our downfall might become the means of our salvation through Christ our Lord. Through him, the host of angels adores your majesty and rejoices in your presence forever. Now may our voices, we pray, join with theirs in this hymn of praise:

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts, ∫
∫ heaven and earth are full of your glory, ∫
∫ hosanna in the highest. ∫
∫ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, ∫
∫ hosanna in the highest. ∫

You are indeed holy, O Lord, the fount of all holiness. Make holy, therefore, these gifts, we pray, by sending down your Spirit upon them like the dewfall, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, he took bread and giving thanks, broke it, gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you eat of it. This is my body given up for you.” In a similar way, when the supper ended, he took the chalice, once more giving thanks. He gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you drink from it. For this is the chalice of my blood, the blood of the new and eternal covenant. It will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.”

The mystery of our faith.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ When we eat this bread and drink this cup, ∫
∫ we proclaim your death, O Lord, ∫
∫ until you come again. ∫

Therefore, as we celebrate now the memorial of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, the bread of life, the chalice of salvation, giving thanks, that you have held us worthy to be in your presence and minister to you. Humbly we pray that partaking of the body and blood of Christ, we may be gathered into one by the Holy Spirit. Remember, Lord, your Church spread throughout the world. Bring her to the fullness of charity, together with Leo our Pope, Blas… our archbishop, and all who minister in your churches everywhere. Remember all our brothers and sisters, those who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection, and all who have died in your mercy. Welcome them into the light of your face. Have mercy on us all, we pray, that with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, with Joseph, her spouse, with the blessed Apostles, and all the saints who have pleased you throughout the ages, we may merit to be co-heirs to eternal life, and one day there praise and glorify you through your Son, Jesus Christ. Through him, with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor are yours, forever and ever.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Amen, amen, amen. ∫

And now with confidence, we join all our prayers into the prayer that Jesus taught: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, and graciously grant peace this day. In your mercy, keep us free from sin. Protect us from anxiety and despair as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your friends, “I leave you peace. My peace I give you.” Look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church. Graciously grant her peace and unity according to your will, who lives and reigns forever and ever.
-Amen.

The peace of the Lord be with you always.
-And with your spirit.

And let us share with each other some gesture or sign of peace.

Peace. And friends, to all of you at home, from all of us here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, we want to extend the peace and the blessing of Christ. Peace be with you.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Have mercy on us. ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Have mercy on us. ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Grant us peace. ∫

We behold now in faith Jesus, the Prince of Peace, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, strengthened our way sharing this supper of the Lamb.
-Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

May the body of Christ, may the blood of Christ keep us safe for everlasting life.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

For those of you at home, please turn to page six in your TV Mass guide and join in singing our communion song, “Be Not Afraid.”

∫ You shall cross the barren desert, ∫
∫ but you shall not die of thirst. ∫
∫ You shall wander far in safety, ∫
∫ though you do not know the way. ∫
∫ You shall speak your words in foreign lands, ∫
∫ and all will understand. ∫
∫ You shall see the face of God and live. ∫
∫ Be not afraid. ∫
∫ I go before you always. ∫
∫ Come, follow me, ∫
∫ and I will give you rest. ∫

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ If you pass through raging waters in the sea, ∫
∫ you shall not drown. ∫
∫ If you walk amid the burning flames, ∫
∫ you shall not be harmed. ∫
∫ If you stand before the power of hell ∫
∫ and death is at your side, ∫
∫ know that I am with you through it all. ∫
∫ Be not afraid. ∫
∫ I go before you always. ∫
∫ Come, follow me, ∫
∫ and I will give you rest. ∫

Let us pray. Accompany with constant protection, O Lord, those you renew with these heavenly gifts, and in your never-failing care for them, make them worthy of eternal redemption through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

I invite you now to join me in the prayer for the children of Mercy Home. Our Lady of Mercy, we pray that you will guide, protect, and bless all boys and girls who this day have a home called Mercy. May they find the Father’s mercy as we offer them our hearts in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. May they see God’s mercy in action through our love, prayers, and sacrifices.

And friends, as we go into the week ahead, think about something that Mother Teresa said that I just love, “We can’t all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.” Where do you need to think about that, remember it, and practice it in the week ahead.

The Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

We bow our heads and ask God’s blessing. Creator God, we give you thanks for this day, for being able to be together in the presence of this Mass, and the words of Scripture. Strengthen us as we go forward to do those small things with great love in your name, as we ask your blessing in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
-Amen.

We go in peace to love and serve God by our care for each other.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Love divine, all loves excelling, ∫
∫ joy of heaven to earth come down, ∫
∫ fix in us your humble dwelling, ∫
∫ all your faithful mercies crown, ∫
∫ Jesus, source of all, compassion… ∫

My friends, I just want to thank you for the ways in which you support the TV Mass here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Let us continue to pray for one another. Please consider making an offering so that we can keep the TV Mass on the air. May God bless you, your family members, and your friends.

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home is generously provided by GIA Publications Incorporated and its World Library Publications division.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

The following presentation is made possible by the generosity of the viewers of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago.

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Today, we celebrate the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time. My name is Dan Riley. I am joined by Tom McNamara and Morgan Kuhn, and our celebrant is Father Carl Morello.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ How firm a foundation, ∫
∫ you saints of the Lord, ∫
∫ is laid for your faith ∫
∫ in Christ Jesus, the Word! ∫
∫ What more can God say ∫
∫ than to you has been said, ∫
∫ to you who for refuge ∫
∫ to Jesus have fled? ∫

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

The grace, the peace, the love of God be with each of you.
-And with your spirit.

As we gather today to remember how God is with us, we remember God’s mercy and love calling to mind our sins.

Lord Jesus, you came to call us sinners to your mercy. Lord, have mercy.
-Lord, have mercy.

Christ Jesus, we trust your love to heal the wounds of our sin. Christ, have mercy.
-Christ, have mercy.

And Lord Jesus, gathered around this table, you strengthen us with faith and hope. Lord, have mercy.
-Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God who loves us have mercy on us, forgive us any of our sins, and one day bring us to the joy of everlasting life.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Glory to God in the highest, ∫
∫ and on earth peace to people of good will. ∫
∫ Glory to God in the highest, ∫
∫ and on earth peace to people of good will. ∫

Let us pray. Draw near to your servants, O Lord, and answer their prayers with unceasing kindness, that for those who glory in you as their creator and guide, you may restore what you have created and keep safe what you have restored. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever.
-Amen.

A reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah.

Thus says the Lord: All you who are thirsty come to the water. You who have no money come receive grain and eat, come without pain and without cost. Drink wine and milk. Why spend your money for what is not bread? Your wages for what fails to satisfy. Heed me and you shall eat well. You shall delight in rich fare. Come to me heedfully. Listen that you may have life. I will renew with you the everlasting covenant, the benefits assured to David.

The word of the Lord.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫
∫ The Lord is kind and full of compassion, ∫
∫ slow to anger, abounding in mercy. ∫
∫ How good is the Lord to all, ∫
∫ compassionate to all his creatures. ∫
∫ The hand of the Lord feeds us; ∫
∫ he answers all our needs. ∫

A reading from the letter of Saint Paul to the Romans.

Brothers and sisters: What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or burial, or the sword? No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor heights, nor depths, nor any other creatures will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The word of the Lord.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫
∫ One does not live on bread alone, ∫
∫ but on every word that comes forth ∫
∫ from the mouth of God. ∫
∫ Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ∫

Brothers and sisters in faith, the Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

Ours is a reading now from the holy Gospel according to Matthew.
-Glory to you, O Lord.

When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place. It is already late. Dismiss the crowd so they can go to the village and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said to them, “There is no need for them to go away. Give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Five loaves and two fish are all that we have.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me.” And he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about 5,000 men, not counting the women and children.

The Gospel of the Lord.
-Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Well, this is a very beautiful and familiar Gospel story today. Jesus takes the loaves and two fish, he blesses them, breaks them, gives it to the disciples, and all who ate were satisfied. And because this is a familiar Gospel story, I don’t want us to miss the radical moment in this story. The crowd comes to Jesus tired and hungry and searching. And what the disciples see is scarcity. This isn’t enough. But Jesus sees possibility. Jesus doesn’t deny the hunger, and he doesn’t shame the disciples for their limits. Instead, he says something simple and challenging, “Give them food for yourselves.”

Friends, this miracle isn’t just about food. It’s about trust. And Jesus takes what seems small and inadequate, places it in God’s hands, and shows that love multiplies when it is shared. Love multiplies when it is shared.

Let me share this little story that helps make the point of the Gospel today. There was a teacher who once asked her class to collect food for a local food pantry, and one child brought in a single can of soup, and then apologized to the teacher saying, “I know this isn’t much.” But at the end of the week, the table was overflowing with goods. Now, that one can of soup could not feed everyone by itself, but that one can mattered because it was part of something much bigger.

That’s the message for us as Christians today. We live in a world that is constantly saying, “There isn’t enough.” Enough time, not enough compassion, not enough resources, not enough hope. And we’re tempted to send people away, the poor, the immigrant, the struggling family, the person who doesn’t seem to fit in easily into our lives. But Jesus says to us, “Give them something to eat yourselves.” And what is he saying? Well, what we bring may feel small. It may be a little act of kindness, a word of welcome, a willingness to listen, a commitment to justice, a gift of time or resources. It may seem small, but in the hands of Christ, small offerings become the sign of God’s kingdom among us. And so today, the Eucharist itself reminds us of this truth: ordinary bread, blessed and broken, becomes life for the world.

I think there’s a beautiful saying that captures this Gospel well. God does not ask us to give what we don’t have, but to give what we do have, even if it’s just a little. Or maybe this beautiful saying from Mother Teresa, as she put it, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.”

What I hope you will take from today’s message is simply this: bring what you have, no matter how small. Bring it to Christ and trust that that love shared will never be wasted.

And now in the spirit of trust, we profess in the Apostles’ Creed:

“I believe in one God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father almighty. From there, he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.”

And now in the spirit of trust and confidence in God’s love, we bring our many needs and place them in the heart of God. Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.”

For our Pope and Church leaders, as they spread Christ’s Gospel of love and mercy, may they be safe in their good works. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For those battling addictions, may they recognize the presence of the Lord in their lives, to give them strength to overcome their dependence. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For the youth at Mercy Home, may they find the love and nurturing they need to continue their healing process. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

For those who are impoverished and neglected, may others share their talents and resources to provide for them. We pray to the Lord.
-Lord, hear our prayer.

Pray to God, we trust your love for us. Hear the prayer spoken out loud and all we carry in our hearts as we place them before you and pray through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation, through your goodness we have bread to offer, which earth is given, human hands have made, may it become for us the bread of life. Blessed be God forever.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Through the mingling of water and wine, we share the divinity of Christ, who humbled himself to share our humanity. Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation, through your goodness we have wine to offer, fruit of the vine, work of human hands, may it become our spiritual drink. Blessed be God forever.

Lord, wash away my iniquities and cleanse me of all sin.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Pray with me in faith that the gifts of bread and wine offered now be acceptable to our almighty and loving God.
-May the Lord accept the sacrifice at our hands for the praise and glory of God’s name, for our good and the good of all God’s holy Church.

Graciously sanctify these gifts, O Lord, we pray, and accepting the oblation of this spiritual sacrifice, make of us an eternal offering to you through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

The Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

Lift up your hearts.
-We lift them up to the Lord.

And let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
-It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, almighty and eternal God. For we know it belongs to your boundless glory, that you came to the aid of mortal beings with your divinity, and even fashion for us a remedy out of mortality itself, that the cause of our downfall might become the means of our salvation through Christ our Lord. Through him, the host of angels adores your majesty and rejoices in your presence forever. Now may our voices, we pray, join with theirs in this hymn of praise:

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts, ∫
∫ heaven and earth are full of your glory, ∫
∫ hosanna in the highest. ∫
∫ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, ∫
∫ hosanna in the highest. ∫

You are indeed holy, O Lord, the fount of all holiness. Make holy, therefore, these gifts, we pray, by sending down your Spirit upon them like the dewfall, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, he took bread and giving thanks, broke it, gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you eat of it. This is my body given up for you.” In a similar way, when the supper ended, he took the chalice, once more giving thanks. He gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you drink from it. For this is the chalice of my blood, the blood of the new and eternal covenant. It will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.”

The mystery of our faith.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ When we eat this bread and drink this cup, ∫
∫ we proclaim your death, O Lord, ∫
∫ until you come again. ∫

Therefore, as we celebrate now the memorial of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, the bread of life, the chalice of salvation, giving thanks, that you have held us worthy to be in your presence and minister to you. Humbly we pray that partaking of the body and blood of Christ, we may be gathered into one by the Holy Spirit. Remember, Lord, your Church spread throughout the world. Bring her to the fullness of charity, together with Leo our Pope, Blas… our archbishop, and all who minister in your churches everywhere. Remember all our brothers and sisters, those who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection, and all who have died in your mercy. Welcome them into the light of your face. Have mercy on us all, we pray, that with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, with Joseph, her spouse, with the blessed Apostles, and all the saints who have pleased you throughout the ages, we may merit to be co-heirs to eternal life, and one day there praise and glorify you through your Son, Jesus Christ. Through him, with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor are yours, forever and ever.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Amen, amen, amen. ∫

And now with confidence, we join all our prayers into the prayer that Jesus taught: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, and graciously grant peace this day. In your mercy, keep us free from sin. Protect us from anxiety and despair as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your friends, “I leave you peace. My peace I give you.” Look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church. Graciously grant her peace and unity according to your will, who lives and reigns forever and ever.
-Amen.

The peace of the Lord be with you always.
-And with your spirit.

And let us share with each other some gesture or sign of peace.

Peace. And friends, to all of you at home, from all of us here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, we want to extend the peace and the blessing of Christ. Peace be with you.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Have mercy on us. ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Have mercy on us. ∫
∫ Lamb of God, ∫
∫ you take away the sins of the world. ∫
∫ Grant us peace. ∫

We behold now in faith Jesus, the Prince of Peace, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, strengthened our way sharing this supper of the Lamb.
-Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

May the body of Christ, may the blood of Christ keep us safe for everlasting life.
-Amen.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

For those of you at home, please turn to page six in your TV Mass guide and join in singing our communion song, “Be Not Afraid.”

∫ You shall cross the barren desert, ∫
∫ but you shall not die of thirst. ∫
∫ You shall wander far in safety, ∫
∫ though you do not know the way. ∫
∫ You shall speak your words in foreign lands, ∫
∫ and all will understand. ∫
∫ You shall see the face of God and live. ∫
∫ Be not afraid. ∫
∫ I go before you always. ∫
∫ Come, follow me, ∫
∫ and I will give you rest. ∫

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ If you pass through raging waters in the sea, ∫
∫ you shall not drown. ∫
∫ If you walk amid the burning flames, ∫
∫ you shall not be harmed. ∫
∫ If you stand before the power of hell ∫
∫ and death is at your side, ∫
∫ know that I am with you through it all. ∫
∫ Be not afraid. ∫
∫ I go before you always. ∫
∫ Come, follow me, ∫
∫ and I will give you rest. ∫

Let us pray. Accompany with constant protection, O Lord, those you renew with these heavenly gifts, and in your never-failing care for them, make them worthy of eternal redemption through Christ our Lord.
-Amen.

I invite you now to join me in the prayer for the children of Mercy Home. Our Lady of Mercy, we pray that you will guide, protect, and bless all boys and girls who this day have a home called Mercy. May they find the Father’s mercy as we offer them our hearts in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. May they see God’s mercy in action through our love, prayers, and sacrifices.

And friends, as we go into the week ahead, think about something that Mother Teresa said that I just love, “We can’t all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.” Where do you need to think about that, remember it, and practice it in the week ahead.

The Lord be with you.
-And with your spirit.

We bow our heads and ask God’s blessing. Creator God, we give you thanks for this day, for being able to be together in the presence of this Mass, and the words of Scripture. Strengthen us as we go forward to do those small things with great love in your name, as we ask your blessing in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
-Amen.

We go in peace to love and serve God by our care for each other.
-Thanks be to God.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫
∫ Love divine, all loves excelling, ∫
∫ joy of heaven to earth come down, ∫
∫ fix in us your humble dwelling, ∫
∫ all your faithful mercies crown, ∫
∫ Jesus, source of all, compassion… ∫

My friends, I just want to thank you for the ways in which you support the TV Mass here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Let us continue to pray for one another. Please consider making an offering so that we can keep the TV Mass on the air. May God bless you, your family members, and your friends.

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home is generously provided by GIA Publications Incorporated and its World Library Publications division.

∫ [Piano music playing] ∫

Well, this is a very beautiful and familiar Gospel story today. Jesus takes the loaves and two fish, he blesses them, breaks them, gives it to the disciples, and all who ate were satisfied. And because this is a familiar Gospel story, I don’t want us to miss the radical moment in this story. The crowd comes to Jesus tired and hungry and searching. And what the disciples see is scarcity. This isn’t enough. But Jesus sees possibility. Jesus doesn’t deny the hunger, and he doesn’t shame the disciples for their limits. Instead, he says something simple and challenging, “Give them food for yourselves.”

Friends, this miracle isn’t just about food. It’s about trust. And Jesus takes what seems small and inadequate, places it in God’s hands, and shows that love multiplies when it is shared. Love multiplies when it is shared.

Let me share this little story that helps make the point of the Gospel today. There was a teacher who once asked her class to collect food for a local food pantry, and one child brought in a single can of soup, and then apologized to the teacher saying, “I know this isn’t much.” But at the end of the week, the table was overflowing with goods. Now, that one can of soup could not feed everyone by itself, but that one can mattered because it was part of something much bigger.

That’s the message for us as Christians today. We live in a world that is constantly saying, “There isn’t enough.” Enough time, not enough compassion, not enough resources, not enough hope. And we’re tempted to send people away, the poor, the immigrant, the struggling family, the person who doesn’t seem to fit in easily into our lives. But Jesus says to us, “Give them something to eat yourselves.” And what is he saying? Well, what we bring may feel small. It may be a little act of kindness, a word of welcome, a willingness to listen, a commitment to justice, a gift of time or resources. It may seem small, but in the hands of Christ, small offerings become the sign of God’s kingdom among us. And so today, the Eucharist itself reminds us of this truth: ordinary bread, blessed and broken, becomes life for the world.

I think there’s a beautiful saying that captures this Gospel well. God does not ask us to give what we don’t have, but to give what we do have, even if it’s just a little. Or maybe this beautiful saying from Mother Teresa, as she put it, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.”

What I hope you will take from today’s message is simply this: bring what you have, no matter how small. Bring it to Christ and trust that that love shared will never be wasted.