These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.

Saint Laura Montoya, virgin, October 21

Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 40)
R. Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.


Sacrifice or oblation you wished not, but ears open to obedience you gave me. Burnt offerings or sin offerings you sought not; then said I, "Behold I come."


R. Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102125.cfm
Mother Laura (1874-1949) is the first canonized saint from Colombia. She founded a religious community of women missionaries dedicated to the indigenous and the marginalized. She worked to overcome racial discrimination. Sisters from her community work in 19 countries. Her tomb and shrine are in Medellín, Colombia. https://youtu.be/cDdniihKBzI?si=o1au-apDD3UwB6hj