All posts by Rob Boelke

Online Mass | Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time (2025)

Music and Readings for the Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 24, 2025

Opening Song: Be Not Afraid G 754

CLOW (9 a.m.): Seek Ye First G 715

Psalm 40: LORD, LORD, make haste to help me! (x2)

(Text: Abbey Psalms & Canticles © 2010, 2018 USCCB; Music: © 2025, Philip Jakob)

Gospel Acclamation: Salisbury Alleluia

Preparation of the Gifts: Unless a Grain of Wheat G 868

Eucharistic Acclamations: Mass of Creation G 231, 234, 238 (Holy – We Proclaim – Amen)

Lamb of God: Mass of Creation G 240

Communion Song: On Eagles’ Wings G 749

Dismissal: Celtic Alleluia – Sending Forth

  • Readings for the Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 24, 2025
  • Lyrics and Mass Order for the Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 24, 2025
  • Contemporary Music (5:30 p.m. Sunday) for the Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 24, 2025

Choosing Love | Friar Reflections | 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Saints of God…

…the Lord be with you!

If there is a consistent theme in all three of today’s readings, it is the role of a prophet and how a prophet is treated. In today’s first reading from the Book of the Prophet Jeremiah (38; 4-6, 8-10) we read that Jeremiah is thrown into a muddy cistern because his message is “demoralizing the soldiers…and all the people.”

In the second reading from the letter to the Hebrews (12: 1-4) the author reminds his readers that “Jesus endured the cross, despising its shame…and endured such opposition from sinners.”

Today’s Gospel according to Luke (12: 49-53) has Jesus saying that He has come to set the world on fire and that He has come to create division. This is not an easy Gospel, and the question must be asked, “Where is the Good News in this?”

For me, the good news is found in the implicit idea of choice. We are free to choose to live the false sense of peace and security that the world and its values give, or we can freely choose to live empowered by the Holy Spirit, in imitation of Christ and His values. “Love God and love your neighbor as yourself.” Love, not judgement; Love, not apathy; Love, not selfishness; Love, not revenge; Love, not cruelty. You get the idea. Yet this choosing to Love above all else will at some point, put us in opposition with others. As the World War II Lutheran martyr Deitrich Bonhoeffer put it, “Grace is free, but is not cheap.” In the end, grace has a price.

Tradition has it that Jeremiah was stoned to death, the prophet Isaiah was sawn in two, Bonhoeffer was executed by hanging, Jesus was crucified. Yet as people of faith we know that death is not the end. The letter to the Hebrews reminds us that “we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses” so we are encouraged to “persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfector of faith.” So, no matter what the circumstances, let us all be prophets (as we are by our Baptism) and prophetically live our faith, using words only if we must.

– Fr. Steve

Online Mass | Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time (2025)

Music and Readings for the Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 17, 2025

Opening Song: Be Not Afraid G 754

CLOW (9 a.m.): Seek Ye First G 715

Psalm 40: LORD, LORD, make haste to help me! (x2)

(Text: Abbey Psalms & Canticles © 2010, 2018 USCCB; Music: © 2025, Philip Jakob)

Gospel Acclamation: Salisbury Alleluia

Preparation of the Gifts: Unless a Grain of Wheat G 868

Eucharistic Acclamations: Mass of Creation G 231, 234, 238 (Holy – We Proclaim – Amen)

Lamb of God: Mass of Creation G 240

Communion Song: On Eagles’ Wings G 749

Dismissal: Celtic Alleluia – Sending Forth

Turning the World on its Head | Friar Reflections | Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

This line opens the second reading this Sunday and it’s one of the most profound theological definitions of faith in all of Scripture.

You see, we live in a world obsessed with what is visible. Proof. Data. Measurement. Surveillance. If you can’t see it, test it, or touch it—it must not be real. And yet, today’s Scripture turns that on its head.

Faith, it says, is not blind. Faith sees more—not less. It is “evidence” of what the eyes cannot perceive, and the “realization” of what is not yet. Faith should never be seen as a fantasy, but rather, it’s a way of knowing, a kind of spiritual perception that recognizes God’s presence where others see only absence.

“Faith is the realization of what is hoped for…” It’s not wishful thinking. It’s not “someday maybe.”

It’s a confidence that what God promises is already on its way.

Abraham lived in tents but believed in a city with foundations.

Moses left the palace of Egypt for a land he had never seen.

Mary said “yes” to a future that would shatter every plan she had.

Faith gives shape to the invisible—like an architect who builds from a blueprint not yet realized, or an artist who sees beauty in a blank canvas.

“…and evidence of things not seen.” Evidence is normally empirical: we test it. We prove it.

But Hebrews says faith itself is evidence—not of the visible, but of the invisible.

The Desert Fathers referred to faith as the heart’s capacity to perceive God. It doesn’t oppose reason; it goes beyond it. In this way, faith is both evidence and encountering the invisible becomes tangible in prayer, in trust, in love.

So, what does this mean for today? It means we don’t just believe in God—we rely on Him. We order our lives around His promises. We build our homes on a foundation that can’t be seen on any map or measured by any device.

The Catechism says: “Faith is a foretaste of the knowledge that will make us blessed in the life to come.” (CCC 163) Faith trains us to see not only what is, but what is becoming. We learn to wait—not passively, but with attentive hope. We become pilgrims who walk toward the unseen with eyes wide open.

A sailor once found himself navigating a dense fog at night. Visibility was nearly zero, and the coast was dangerous. Suddenly, a faint light appeared in the distance, a beam of a lighthouse. He couldn’t see the shore, but he knew where to go. That light was not the destination—but it was enough to move forward.

That is faith: Not full sight… but enough light.

We may not see all that God is doing. We may not understand the “why” of our suffering, or the “when” of His coming. But we have enough to walk forward.

Faith is not just about the afterlife. It’s about how we live this life — here, now, today — in the light of God’s promises. It’s the ability to take God at his word and the courage to take the next step.

Peace and All Good,
– Fr. Zack

Online Mass | Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (2025)

Music and Readings for the Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 10, 2025

Opening Song: The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns G 450

Psalm 33: Blessed the people the LORD has chosen, chosen as his heritage.

(Text: Abbey Psalms & Canticles © 2010, 2018 USCCB; Music: © 2025, Philip Jakob)

Gospel Acclamation: Salisbury Alleluia

Preparation of the Gifts: Eye Has Not Seen G 785

Eucharistic Acclamations: Mass of Creation G 231, 234, 238 (Holy – We Proclaim – Amen)

Lamb of God: Mass of Creation G 240

Communion Song: Where Your Treasure Is G 829

Dismissal: Soon and Very Soon G 941

Parish Choir to Perform Catholic Musical this Fall

Building on the success of our recent “Aloha Summer Social,” we hope to return to Hawaii with a parish performance of Tales of Wonder, a musical conceived by Marty Haugen while visiting a parish in Hawaii. That parish was largely made up of native Hawaiians who had preserved story-telling as one aspect of their culture. To an extent, we do the same every Sunday as we gather to listen to the Word of God. In Tales of Wonder a village gathers around two story-tellers who relate some of the familiar and central stories of their faith – Creation, Job, Jesus, and the coming of the Spirit – primarily to the children, but also to the adults.

I was first introduced to Tales of Wonder by Marty Haugen himself when he visited London for anniversary celebrations of the St Thomas More Centre. Since then. I have directed performances at St Ignatius College, Enfield (1991), Parrs Wood High School (1995) at which the Headteacher remarked that we had delivered the entire religious education program in one night! When I became Director of Music for the Cathedral and Diocese of Hallam, performances followed at churches throughout the Diocese. Most memorable was a performance in Iona Abbey (1998) at which both Marty Haugen and I had been invited as guest musicians for the annual Music & Worship Week of the Wild Goose Resource Group. I directed, with Marty at the piano. The choir was made up of the 120 people signed up for the week and the children all came from Iona’s tiny primary school.

Can we rise to the challenge of performing it here at Sacred Heart? The proposed performance date is Wednesday, October 1 (updated from previous bulletin and email listings showing October 2), in the church. Our choir has already expressed its interest. Parents of children aged 8 and up, might your children be interested in being part of a children’s singing group? We would need to rehearse, of course, but please let me know if your children are interested by writing to me at pjakob@sacredheartfla.org

– Philip Jakob | Director of Music

An Active Parishioner | From the Desk of the Pastor | August 2025

Dear Parishioners,

Every week we receive calls from people who are requesting baptisms, weddings, convalidations, and those looking for sponsorship forms because they have been asked to be a sponsor for a baptism or confirmation. In all of these circumstances, the first question they are asked is, “Are you a registered parishioner?”

What it means to be an active registered parishioner at SH:

  • An active registered parishioner is a person who attends Mass regularly at Sacred Heart Church. Parents who want a Catholic Faith Formation and Education for their children will see to it that their family attends Mass faithfully and participates in parish activities.
  • An active registered parishioner gives of themselves by donating Time and Talent to the ministries of the parish and/or to the volunteer organizations that support the parish. We are to share in the responsibilities that keep our parish alive in a vibrant way through our ministries.
  • An active registered parishioner is a good financial steward of the church. As a parishioner, it is important to understand that giving financially to support the parish is a vital and key component to active parishioner status.

We often hear people say “I’ve been coming here for years” or “this is my parish.” This is not the same as being a registered parishioner. We also hear “I or we only give cash”, so there is no record of identifiable giving. In these cases we are unable to assist in their needs. Registering at Sacred Heart Church offers numerous benefits, both practical and spiritual, for individuals and families. Here’s why a person should consider registering:

Sense of Belonging & Community:

  • Becoming part of a family: Registration signifies your desire to be an active part of a specific Catholic faith community. It fosters a sense of belonging and helps you feel more “at home” in the church.
  • Building relationships: It provides opportunities to connect with other parishioners, form friendships, and receive support during times of joy and sorrow.
  • Demonstrating commitment: It’s a tangible way to declare your commitment to practicing your faith within a local church community, making a counter-cultural statement in a low-commitment society.

Facilitation of Sacraments & Ministries:

  • Sacramental preparation: Many parishes require registration for individuals or families preparing for sacraments like Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, and Holy Matrimony.
    • Prior to any wedding arrangements being made, a bride or groom must be a registered and active member in the parish for a minimum of one year and contributed to its support. The parish will not accept brides or grooms who register at the parish for the sole purpose of being married at Sacred Heart Church or for “using” the Church.
  • Godparent/Sponsor validation: Being a registered, active member is often a requirement to receive a letter of eligibility to be a godparent for Baptism or a sponsor for Confirmation.
  • Pastoral care: Registration helps the pastor and staff get to know you better, allowing them to minister to your spiritual needs, especially during times of crisis (e.g., Anointing of the Sick).
  • Participation in parish life: It opens doors for involvement in various ministries, volunteer opportunities, and educational/formational programs offered by the parish.

Practical Benefits:

  • Communication and updates: Providing your contact information allows the parish to keep you informed about events, prayer opportunities, and important updates via email direct mail, or phone.
  • Financial statements: If you use offertory envelopes or online giving, registration ensures you receive a year-end statement of your donations for income tax purposes.
  • Parish planning: Your registration contributes to the parish’s census numbers, which can influence decisions regarding the number of priests assigned, Mass schedules, and the planning of various programs and services.
  • Proof of presence (especially for immigrants): For immigrants, registration can help document continuous presence in the U.S., which may be useful in immigration-related matters. It can also demonstrate good moral character and community involvement.

Spiritual Growth & Accountability:

  • Deeper engagement: Registration can lead to more active participation in the life of the parish, helping you to grow in love of God and neighbor.
  • Accountability: By formally joining, you allow the pastors and other members to shepherd you more effectively and hold you accountable in your faith journey.
  • Stability: Registering at a single parish encourages stability in your faith life, allowing you to confront challenging teachings and grow within a consistent spiritual environment.
  • In essence, registering at a Catholic parish is about intentionally becoming part of the Body of Christ in a local, tangible way, allowing you to both receive from and contribute to the vibrant life of the Church.

If you would like to be active in the life and ministry of Sacred Heart Church, you are very welcome to register here.

Peace and All Good,
– Fr. Mike

Online Mass | Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (2025)

Music and Readings for the Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 3, 2025

Opening Song: Journey of Faith (Ver. 4 & 5) G 832

Psalm 90: O Lord, you have been our refuge, from generation to generation.

(Text: Abbey Psalms & Canticles © 2010, 2018 USCCB; Music: © 2025, Philip Jakob)

Gospel Acclamation: Salisbury Alleluia

Preparation of the Gifts: If We Are Living G 825

Eucharistic Acclamations: Mass of Creation G 231, 234, 238 (Holy – We Proclaim – Amen)

Lamb of God: Mass of Creation G 240

Communion Song: Where Your Treasure Is G 829

Dismissal: We Walk By Faith G 740

Online Mass | Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (2025)

Music and Readings for the Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, July 27, 2025

Opening Song: As We Gather at Your Table G 922

Psalm 138: On the day I called, you answered me, O Lord.

(Text: Abbey Psalms & Canticles © 2010, 2018 USCCB; Music: © 2025, Philip Jakob)

Gospel Acclamation: Salisbury Alleluia

Preparation of the Gifts: O God Our Help in Ages Past G 755

Eucharistic Acclamations: Mass of Creation G 231, 234, 238 (Holy – We Proclaim – Amen)

Lamb of God: Mass of Creation G 240

Communion Song: There Is a Longing G 720

Dismissal: Celtic Alleluia, Sending Forth

Hospitality First | Friar Reflections | Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Saints of God, the Lord be with you…

The first reading from the Book of Genesis (18:1-10) and the Gospel according to Luke (10:38-42) reminds me of a story I read years ago in the popular Ann Landers column that appeared in many newspapers. A woman wrote in with the dilemma she faced when her Hispanic gardeners asked her for a drink of water on a particular very hot day. Not knowing what to do, she allowed them to drink from the hose. She wanted to know if she did the right thing.

To a point, she did, however, reflecting on today’s readings, she did not offer any hospitality. In the reading from Genesis, Abraham offered the three strangers passing by water, rest, and food. While Sarah did the cooking, Abraham waited on them while they ate under the tree.

In today’s Gospel, it is Martha who was burdened with serving the meal, while her sister Mary “sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him.” It seems to me that both offered hospitality, since it takes both presents and presence to truly be hospitable.

We who are the Church should first and foremost be a people of hospitality since God is hospitable to us! God welcomes all His children all the time, no matter what. Our response to this divine hospitality is to be hospitable in kind. In other words, PAY IT FORWARD. We can judge our own response to God’s hospitality to us as individuals by how hospitable we are to one another, particularly those sisters and brothers who are most unlike us. We don’t have to tie ourselves up in knots like the woman who wrote to Ann Landers. Just do the kind thing as kindly as you can (I’d like to think that I would have given them a glass and asked if they wanted ice).

And, good people of Sacred Heart Parish, you DO! I often say to our Faith Formation Director, Barbara Ferreris, that one reason our church had so many people participate in the O.C.I.A. process this year is because of how welcoming we are to our visitors here in downtown Tampa, celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and those visitors at the end of each Sunday Mass. The hospitality shown to and how we treat our homeless sisters and brothers that make the front of the church their Sunday home, welcoming them to share coffee and donuts, sets a tone that this church understands what Jesus is asking of us.

So, let us continue to be a welcoming people who form a welcoming parish. God is noticing, and God is blessing all of us.

– Fr. Steve