Fr. Gabe Cillo offers a heartfelt reflection on the sacred duty of fathers and elders to lead their families in faith, prayer, and devotion. Drawing from the story of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31), he reminds us that spiritual poverty — the refusal to listen to God — is more tragic than material lack. “If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead,” says the Lord. When we ignore Scripture, we reject the very voice of God.

Father Gabe Cillo, MIC, reflects on the witness of St. Marianne Cope, an immigrant and religious sister who did not hesitate when the call came to serve those suffering from leprosy on the island of Molokai, in Hawaii. While dozens of religious communities declined to send their members to serve, her community said yes. Saint Marianne went without fear, spending decades caring for the sick and dying, including St. Damien of Molokai in his final days.

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022126.cfm Fr. Gabe  Cillo, MIC challenges us to examine the condition of our souls: “Who here wants to be healthy spiritually?” The Gospel reminds us that “those who are well need no physician, but those who are sick do” (Lc 5:31; NABRE). In this Lenten moment the priest points to the universal sickness caused by sin, emphasizing that our only cure is the grace of God initiated in Christ.