April 16, 2026

These days there is much turmoil in the public discourse. Today’s Bible readings refute the critics of Pope Leo.  

In Acts of the Apostles, the authorities summoned Peter and the Apostles for violating orders to stop teaching in Jesus’ name. Peter replied, “We must obey God rather than men…” At this, the authorities became infuriated (Acts 5).

In the responsorial Psalm, the repeated verse today is “The Lord hears the cry of the poor” (Psalm 34).

The Gospel reading today includes the following: “The one who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of earthly things. But the one who comes from heaven…testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony…For the one whom God sent speaks the words of God” (John 3). This was written about Jesus, but today these words can also apply to those who, like Pope Leo, spread Jesus’ teachings with pure heart.

Ultimately, the battle cannot be won by words, but only by Spirit.

Today the earth is suffering more and more from reckless exploitation. Woe to those in high places who purposely amp up reliance on fossil fuel consumption for their own profit, and who cruelly cut back on access to more affordable renewable energy sources for the people. They harm both the earth and its inhabitants, this beautiful earth that is God’s creation. Although disengaging ourselves from the fossil fuel economy is not easy, for those in power to purposely lean into fossil fuels, going in the wrong direction at a time when we approach climate tipping points is, we regret to say, evil. Let us each do whatever we can as individuals to reduce fossil fuel consumption, knowing that it is not easy and being kind to ourselves as we do whatever we can, since those with the power to change things are abandoning their responsibilities. Amen.