June: The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

               This Week's Letter From Father

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time A           

June 14, 2026
 
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
 
We are now returning to the color green. Starting this Sunday and lasting until the end of November, we will celebrate an extended period of Sundays in Ordinary Time. Ordinary Time refers to the period outside of the Christmas and Easter seasons, as well as the preparatory seasons of Advent and Lent.
 
During Ordinary Time, we have the chance to explore Jesus’ life on Earth. It’s a great opportunity to deepen our understanding of his ministry and its influence.
 
Up to this point in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus has been sharing the essence of his ministry among God’s people. He has been proclaiming the kingdom of heaven’s proximity, healing the sick, imparting valuable lessons, and warmly embracing individuals from diverse backgrounds. During this transformative journey, his disciples closely observed his compassionate way of life, witnessed his miraculous acts, absorbed his teachings, and enjoyed sharing meals together. It was an inspiring and enriching experience that shaped their understanding and appreciation of the mission they were part of.
 
In today’s Gospel reading (Matthew 9:36-10:8), Jesus summons the twelve apostles and empowers them to start their ministry alongside him.
 
We all know people who believe they are essential at work and in Church. These control freaks think everything will fall apart if they stop doing what they've always done. But when they retire or pass away, new people step in and often perform just as well, if not better, than those before them. Columbaria are filled with those who thought they were irreplaceable.
 
Turn to Jesus for guidance, who recognizes the power of collaboration. He understands that he cannot accomplish everything on his own. To strengthen his ministry, he delegates responsibilities. His twelve disciples- Simon Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, another James, Thaddeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot- serve as his helpers.
 
At this time, Jesus instructs his followers to reach out to the “lost sheep of Israel,” which encompasses those marginalized within mainstream Judaism, like tax collectors and others in disreputable professions. Their mission is to show compassion and care for those often-overlooked individuals, reflecting Jesus’ own heart. Later, when a Canaanite woman seeks healing for her daughter, Jesus also emphasizes that his ministry is solely directed towards the Jews (Matthew 15:24).
 
The encounter with the unnamed Canaanite woman broadens his perspective and opens his eyes to new possibilities; he also heals her daughter.
 
At the end of the Gospel of Matthew (28:19), Jesus instructs his disciples to “make disciples of all nations.” This emphasizes a powerful message about inclusion and the importance of sharing God’s love with everyone, regardless of their social status, nationality, or beliefs.
 
Just as Jesus entrusted his disciples with a mission to reach all nations, he invites us every day to connect with those around us. We are encouraged to show kindness by feeding the hungry, quenching the thirsty, clothing the needy, visiting the sick and imprisoned, and spreading compassion in every way we can.
 
Renowned Jesuit priest and paleontologist Pierre Teilhard de Chardin observed decades ago that the modern Church has the potential to become stronger. He identified three key areas for growth: embracing democracy in governance, empowering women in ministry, and valuing prophecy in revelation.
 
By focusing on these three aspects, we can cultivate a more inclusive, prophetic, and vibrant community.
                                                                   …..
I am grateful to Marie and Spencer Olsen for inviting me to lunch. As always, I appreciate your kindness and friendship. The lunch was delicious, and your company brightened my day. I’m also very happy to hear that your family is doing well and that you are looking forward to celebrating your granddaughter’s and dear friend’s birthday in the mountains.
 
A heartfelt thank you to Annmarie Maxim for yet another wonderful chicken-and-pasta dinner. Your delicious meals brighten my days whenever you’re in town. Have you thought about making this place your home? I truly appreciate your kindness.
 
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Leslie and Randy Ferguson for the delightful dinner. I’m thrilled to hear you will be enjoying some family time over the next few weeks. The 3D image and sketch of Christ by your granddaughter is simply stunning- thank you for sharing such beautiful pieces of art with me.
 
I’m genuinely excited to thank Rouaida and Khalil Haddad for inviting me to the inaugural Sunday brunch at Pita Plate. It’s truly the best brunch I’ve had, not only on the Crystal Coast but also in the United States. I wholeheartedly encourage all parishioners to give it a try; I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s an experience you’re sure to love.
 
I deeply appreciate Michele Roberts, the Ladies Guild, the Knights of Columbus, the Men’s Club and Pat Brennen for creating a heartfelt send-off for Monsignor Frank Moeslein.
 
You are invited to an advanced funeral planning seminar on June 21st at 12 PM in the Parish Hall. We will discuss the steps involved in creating a funeral plan, how it can impact your loved ones, and we will answer any questions you may have about funeral services.
 
I warmly invite you to make a difference and save lives. Join our American Red Cross Blood Drive next Wednesday in the Parish Hall-together, we can help.
 
June is the month dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Lord’s heart  is seen as a symbol of God’s infinite and passionate love for all people and the entire creation. St. Teresa of Calcutta said: “Do not let the past disturb you, just leave everything in the Sacred Heart and begin again with joy.”
 
With prayers and blessings,

Fr. Ryszard

Welcome Message

Greetings in Christ Jesus!

Whether you are just visiting for a short while, have moved here and are joining our parish, or are returning to your Catholic Faith, on behalf of our parish community, we welcome you to St. Egbert Catholic Church and the beautiful Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

When Jesus was asked which of all the commandments was the greatest, he replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.  This is the great, and first commandment. And a second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” These two Commandments form the foundation of our mission to Love God, Love Neighbor, and to Share the Good News.