Sunday, November 8, 2026

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

As the Church’s liturgical year draws toward its conclusion, the Scripture readings for this Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary time invite us to reflect upon the importance of spiritual vigilance, wisdom, and preparation for our eternal encounter with God. Today’s Gospel (Matthew 25:1-13) present the familiar parable of the ten virgins, five wise and five foolish, who await the arrival of the bridegroom.

All ten have been invited to the wedding celebration, and all eagerly await the bridegroom’s arrival; however, only five have brought sufficient oil for their lamps. When the bridegroom is delayed, they all fall asleep. At midnight, a cry announces his coming, but the foolish virgins discover that their lamps are going out. While they leave to purchase more oil, the bridegroom arrives, and the doors to the wedding feast are closed. Jesus concludes the parable with a solemn warning: “Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”

The message of this Gospel is not intended to frighten us, but to awaken us to the importance of living our faith each day. The oil in the lamps can be understood as a symbol of the spiritual preparation that comes through prayer, participation in the sacraments, acts of charity, and a sincere commitment to following Christ. Just as the wise virgins could not share their oil at the last moment, no one else can live our relationship with God for us. Each of us must personally respond to His invitation.

This Sunday, our Parish is also holding its Annual Holiday Bazaar. The event provides an opportunity to enjoy fellowship, support our parish community, and share in the joy of preparing for the approaching holiday season. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who has worked so generously to organize the bazaar, prepare its many offerings, and make this special event possible. We encourage all parishioners and friends to stop by and enjoy the festivities.

As we gather in worship and fellowship this weekend, may we remember that our daily acts of kindness, generosity, service, and prayer are among the ways we keep the lamps of faith burning brightly.