January 28, 2026

What we see unfolding in our nation is a vicious pattern of hatred rooted in the rejection of God, of the dignity of the human person, and the sanctity of the family. We can eradicate these ills only through a firm reliance on God, through a deeper devotion to Christ and the Gospel, through a sincere love for persons reflected in law, and through a renewed commitment to justice and public order.

We are living through a perilous moment. Our challenge is not only one of partisan disagreement, law, and policy, but in a deeper way our challenge is to uphold the central goods of American political life: of faith, of families, and of a national commitment to live together in harmony as brothers and sisters.

Bishop Michael Burbidge
Bishop of Arlington, VA



Dear Parishioners,

It is natural to hope to experience God’s presence at special times in our lives – the joy of family occasions, at a shrine, on pilgrimage, or even in times of quiet prayer. Many who go on a spiritual retreat will find that away from the busyness of their regular lives, the presence of God can appear to be more tangible and real. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus would often escape to a deserted place to listen to the voice of the Father. Today, he climbs the mountain and teaches his disciples what we now know as the beatitudes.

In our desire to encounter God we can fall into the trap of thinking that a genuine meeting with God must be accompanied by particular emotions. Our emotions then become the proof we rely on to affirm that we have indeed had an authentic encounter with him. 

But the spiritual life isn’t always accompanied by consoling feelings or emotions. Instead, it can consist largely of routine prayers and rituals and even include as much suffering and grief as there is joy and celebration. Therefore, today’s Gospel gives us hope and reassurance that God’s presence with us is not dependent upon how we feel at any given moment.

Indeed, the beatitudes remind us that God is there for us at all times of our lives – from moments when we are faced with trials to great moments of gladness and hope. It is in those unexpected places and moments when God draws near to us. No matter what we do or don’t do, God is always there with us. In Psalm 139 the psalmist asks, Where can I go from your spirit? From your presence, where can I flee? He then runs through a list of possible places to escape – the heavens, the ends of the seas, the darkness, even in the womb, and yet he ultimately knows that God is there in each and every place. 

In the eyes of the world, those listed in the beginning of the beatitudes – the poor in spirit, those who mourn or hunger for righteousness, the persecuted – are more likely to be perceived by others as God-forsaken rather than as blessed. But Jesus reassures us that God, who is the source of all blessedness, meets us in our weakness, our sadness, and our hunger for salvation, as well as in our attempts to do what is right and just.

At every Eucharist we should give thanks to God for his faithfulness – that he comes to dwell with us not only in our emotional peaks but also in our emotional valleys. 

God Love Ya!
Fr. Reilly








Enjoy a few moments of peaceful presence with our Lord. Led by fellow parishioner, mediation teacher, author, Jessica Hildebrand.

Step aside from your exhaustions, take a seat, and welcome the guidance and space to connect with the Lord.

You will receive the support to calm your busy mind and peaceful opportunity to deepen your connection with Jesus.

The sessions includes brief explanation of the meditation practice, 30 minute meditation, and time for reflection & fellowship.

Open and accessible to all, no experience needed.

We hope to have you with us as we allow our minds to rest in the loving presence of God.





Saints Peter and Paul School is looking for a Third Grade Long Term Sub to begin on March 27, 2026. 

We are asking for a reliable, faithful and enthusiastic teacher to join our school. 

Please email your resume, cover letter, clearances, and references to [email protected]. 





 





The men of our parish are invited to join Catholic men from throughout the Archdiocese for the 18th Annual Man Up Philly Men’s Conference on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Cardinal O’Hara High School.

Speakers include Father Douglas McKay, Archdiocesan priest and founder of Our House Ministries; Chris Gheysens, Chairman and CEO of Wawa; and Kevin Reilly, former NFL player and inspirational Catholic speaker. Back by popular demand, Mark Forrest, internationally recognized Irish tenor, will lead our time of prayer and reflection. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available, and the Conference will conclude with Mass celebrated by our Archbishop, the Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez.

For more information and to register go to the website: www.manupphilly.com

Please contact Ed Klenk with any questions - 215.436.0956 or [email protected]