Homily from Sunday, August 10, 2025
Fr. Joe Detwiler

In this week’s homily, Fr. Joe reflects on the nature of faith using a simple childhood memory — needing a nightlight to find his way in the dark. Drawing from Hebrews 11 and the life of Abraham, we are reminded that faith is not just believing in God’s promises but trusting Him even when we can’t see the outcome. Faith leads to obedience and patience, and without it, we risk walking blindly, stubbing our spiritual “toes” along the way. Through prayer, the sacraments, and our daily choice to live in relationship with God, we keep this gift of faith — given to us at baptism — alive and shining brightly.

Reflection Questions & Accompaniment Connections

• What areas in your life do you find yourself trying to navigate without the “light” of faith?
  Accompaniment Connection: Take time this week to journal about these moments. Then reach out to a friend or family member and ask how their faith guides them through uncertainty.

• How does Abraham’s willingness to leave everything behind inspire your own steps of trust in God?
  Accompaniment Connection: Invite someone close to you to share a story when they had to trust God despite not knowing the outcome. Let their experience encourage your own faith journey.

• In what ways can you cultivate patience while waiting on God’s promises, especially when the timing feels uncertain?
  Accompaniment Connection: Share with a prayer partner your current struggles with waiting. Pray together for the grace to grow in patience and trust.

• How does recognizing faith as a gift given at baptism affect your daily commitment to live in relationship with God?
  Accompaniment Connection: Encourage a fellow parishioner or family member to reflect with you on the gift of faith. Consider attending Mass or prayer together this week to nourish that gift.

• How can you practically choose faith over fear when facing the “darkness” in your life? (Heart of the Homily)
  Accompaniment Connection: Identify someone you trust and invite them to support you this week in moments of fear or doubt—whether through prayer, conversation, or simple presence.