33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jesus tells us the parable of the talents. A master entrusts his servants with different amounts of money. Two servants use their talents wisely and multiply them. But the third servant, out of fear, buries his talent in the ground. The master does not condemn him because he had only one talent.

He condemns him because he failed to use the gift entrusted to him.  Brothers and sisters, God has given each of us gifts: the gift of faith, the ability to love, the power to forgive, the opportunity to serve, and the time to make someone's life better. We may not possess the talents of others, but we all possess something we can offer God.

The first reading reminds us of a woman who reaches out to the poor and works with loving hands. The second reading urges us to live as children of light, always prepared to meet the Lord.Therefore, the question is not, “How many talents do I have?” The real question is, “What am I doing with the talents God has given me?”

Perhaps your talent is a kind word to someone who is lonely. Perhaps it is forgiveness toward someone who has hurt you. Perhaps it is a visit to a sick person, a helping hand to a needy neighbor, or a prayer for someone who is suffering. Never underestimate the power of a small act done with great love.

One day, when we stand before the Lord, may we hear those beautiful words:  “Well done, my good and faithful servant. Come, share your master's joy!”  Let us not bury our gifts in fear, selfishness, or laziness. Let us use them generously for God and for others.

Remember: God does not ask us to be successful like everyone else. He asks us to be faithful with what He has given us.

Fr. Tomy Thomas

2026 South Jersey Catholic Ministries Appeal

By supporting the 2026 South Jersey Catholic Ministries Appeal, you are supporting many programs and ministries of the Diocese of Camden and Saints Peter & Paul Parish. These ministries serve the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the hungry and challenged. When you support the South Jersey Catholic Ministries Appeal, you offer comfort to those in your parish, your community, and throughout the entire Diocese.

This year’s theme, “Missionaries of Mercy,” supports the social and spiritual needs of our 62 parishes and 29 schools, with social services, hospital chaplaincy, youth & teen campus ministries, Catholic education, pastoral care initiatives, vocations, and faith formation programs. 

Together we make a stronger community with faith, compassion, and mercy.

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