Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily Wednesday, 13th Week in Ordinary Time

July 1, 2026, Matthew 8:28-34

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/070126.cfm

Holy Water and The Authority of Jesus?

How many times have I blessed myself with holy water without giving it a second
thought? But let us not forget that when the priest poured holy water over our heads, we
were transformed into children of God. From that moment, the holiness of God’s own
Son lives within us, a powerful and transformative presence.

Not long after my ordination, a young couple asked me to bless their house. They said
strange things were happening there, much like the two demoniacs in the gospel. I got
my holy water and began blessing the house, sprinkling it everywhere.

All of a sudden, two bay doors opened by themselves. I saw footprints running across
the bed, and more bay doors opened. I went around the corner, and a rug fluffed up, but
no one was there. In a small room in the basement, there was a table and a wall
covered with blood. It seemed someone had sacrificed something in that room.

When the two demoniacs in the gospel saw Jesus, they cried out, “What have you to do
with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed
time?” This story powerfully reminds us of Jesus’ authority over evil. At the beginning of
each Mass, we confess our sins and ask for forgiveness so that we may be worthy to
receive Jesus and His holiness in Holy Communion.

Gospel Challenge:

If holy water drives a demon out of a house, what can the very Body and Blood of Jesus
do within us? Renounce any sin that separates you from God and from anyone in your
life. Whenever possible, bless yourself with holy water as a reminder of Jesus’ authority
over sin and all evil.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  

www.bscchurch.com 
www.rosminians.com