From Mustard Seeds to Miracles: Growing in Faith This October

10-05-2025Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Parishioners,

October is here and what a spiritually rich month it is in the life of the Church! These early days of the month are already filled with heavenly celebrations: we began with the Feast of St. Thérèse of Lisieux on October 1st, followed by the Guardian Angels on October 2nd, and St. Francis of Assisi on October 4th. These saints—and the angels—remind us of the depth and beauty of our Catholic faith and of our belonging to the great Communion of Saints.

This week, we turn our hearts toward Our Lady of the Rosary, whose feast we celebrate on October 7th. October is traditionally dedicated to the Rosary, and I invite you to make a special effort to pray this powerful prayer daily. The Rosary draws us closer to Jesus through the loving eyes of Mary, and it has been a source of strength, peace, and miracles throughout the Church’s history.

A special highlight this month is the Arizona Rosary Celebration at the Phoenix Convention Center. Our parish choir, under the direction of Kent Campbell, will be participating in this beautiful diocesan event, which brings together Catholics from all over Arizona in love and devotion to our Blessed Mother. We are working on arranging bus transportation for those who wish to attend, and you are also welcome to drive and join us there. Having taken part in this celebration many times, I can assure you—it is a powerful witness of faith, unity, and Marian devotion. Fr. John Nahrgang, a member of the parish and a strong promoter of Marian spirituality, will be the keynote speaker. He often says:

“Our Catholic faith is deeply enriched by our connection to Mary, the angels, and the saints. Their prayers, their example, and their ongoing presence in our lives are not optional extras—they are part of God’s plan to help us grow in holiness. Let us never forget we are not alone on our journey of faith.”

This Sunday’s readings invite us to reflect on faith and faithfulness. When the apostles say to Jesus, “Increase our faith,” He does not offer them a system or formula. Instead, He points to the mustard seed—a reminder that even the smallest amount of genuine faith can move mountains. It’s not the size of our faith that matters most, but our willingness to act in faith, trusting that God will provide the necessary graces when we offer him our lives.

There’s a familiar saying worth pondering: “Pray as though everything depends on God, and act as though everything depends on you.” Our faith should not lead to complacency or passive waiting—but to courageous action, born from deep trust in the Lord. As disciples, we are called to live our faith actively, witnessing to Christ in our daily lives—at home, at work, at school, and in every encounter.

In that spirit, I encourage each of you to reflect: How do I live as a witness to Jesus in my daily life? How does my faith inspire me to act?

This month, our parish offers several opportunities to grow in faith. Please take time to read the center section of the bulletin where you’ll find details about upcoming events, including the Men’s Renewal Weekend and the Women’s Retreat. These are valuable moments to step away from the busyness of life and reconnect with the Lord. If you feel the Lord calling, say "yes" - He will meet you there.

May our Blessed Mother, the angels, and all the saints accompany us on our journey.

With prayers and blessings,

Fr. Fred