Homily of Tuesday in the 25th Week of the Ordinary Time, Year C. 23rd September, 2025.
By Fr Emmanuel Aghidi C.S.Sp. Memorial of St Pius of Pietrelcina
Texts: Ezra 6:7–8, 12, 14–20, Luke 8:19–21.
My dear friends, the story in Ezra 6 reminds us that when God begins a work, no power on earth can stop it. King Darius, who knew nothing of Israel’s covenant, became an instrument in God’s hand to fund and protect the rebuilding of the Temple. What was once delayed by opposition was completed with joy and thanksgiving.
The temple was not only a structure of stones but a place where the people renewed their covenant with God. They offered sacrifices, they dedicated the house, and they celebrated the Passover. In other words, the building was only complete when worship was restored.
So it is with us. Our lives, our families, our ministries may face resistance, but if God is at the center, He will raise up help, even from unexpected places. What we need is faithfulness and perseverance. And when the work is done, let us not forget to dedicate it all back to God in thanksgiving and renewed worship.
Mary was faithful. So God brought about His divine plans through her. Pio of Pietrelcina was faithful even as a stigmata. Today we celebrate him. We too can be celebrated when we allow God to build us.
The Lord be with you.
