Message from Rev. Thomas G. Wenski Archbishop of Miami

Dear Immaculate Family,

“The hour has come… unless the grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat, but if it dies, it produces much fruit…” Jesus is speaking of his death and resurrection. His death will lead to new life not only for him but for everyone. That’s why we are here today. Jesus’ hour is the hour of our salvation.

However, Jesus is not only speaking about himself. He is speaking about you and me as well. He took advantage of the visit of some Greeks who wanted to see him to give us a lesson on the meaning and purpose of life. The Greeks were the parents of western philosophy and masters in the search for wisdom and meaning in life. Jesus says life is truly meaningful when we give it away. He is not just talking about our biological death and future resurrection. He is talking about something that may happen in our lives on a daily basis.

Falling into the ground and dying like a grain of wheat means dying to self, letting go of our self-centered ego, and living not just for ourselves. Falling into the ground and dying is the equivalent to “if you want to be my disciple, deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me…” That means not only dying for others but, most importantly, living for others. In short, what Jesus is trying to tell us is that there is no true love without sacrifice.

God bless you all!

Fr. Rolando