Father Dave Preaches

Second Sunday of Advent. Father Dave compares Advent to a recipe's suggested prep time. We can trust that God will help us make our preparation fruitful. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-7-25

Tuesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on this time of limbo between Ordinary Time and Advent. He challenges us to prepare our hearts in one small way this week as we soon journey into Advent. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-23-25

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Father Dave notes how it is hard to relate to the idea of kings in modern America. While it is a challenge, we can help bring about peace in our world if we let God be king of our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-23-25

Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. Father Dave acknowledges that today's feast dedicating a building might seem strange, but it symbolizes the beginning of public Christian worship in Rome. The Scriptures deepen this message and say that we are God's dwelling place on earth. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-09-25

Friday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time. Today's readings share how God has revealed his saving power to all the nations, but Father Dave notes how Saint Paul says there is more work to be done. We are called to reach out and bring Christ to everyone, even in small ways. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-07-25

Wednesday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave talks about election day, and how news channels fill time talking before getting to the important results. Saint Paul describes many laws and commandments in today's readings, and how the crux of God's law is love. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-05-25

Vigil of the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls' Day). Father Dave discusses today's feast, especially following the unexpected death of fellow Paulist and ordination classmate Father Brad Schoeberle. We are to pray for those in purgatory, and trust in God's promise that our souls are in his hands. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Horseshoe Bay, TX on 11-01-25

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's Gospel and our tendency to focus on ourselves instead of God. We are called to find humility and see our neighbor through God's eyes. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-26-25

Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr. Father Dave talks about a friend who jokingly expects appreciation for doing the bare minimum. Today's readings explain how God's grace is a free gift and not something we earn or deserve. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-17-25

Monday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's story of Jonah and times in our lives where we try to avoid God. He challenges us to pay attention to how God prompts us and to say yes to his call instead of making excuses. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-6-25

Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave recalls when a younger coworker discussed her vision board and goals. It is not enough to envision a strong faith. We must take tangible actions to help bring about the kingdom of God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-5-25

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave compares today's readings to tools used to stoke embers in a fireplace. Similarly, he reminds us that humility is a tool for us to grow closer to God. Preached at St. Mary on the Lake, Lake George, NY on 8-31-25

Memorial of Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church. Father Dave cautions those of strong faith to not become complacent. Just like Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, we are to answer God's call and never stop working to bring people to the Lord. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 8-20-25

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave highlights how Jesus talks about division in today's Gospel. While it is difficult, we are called to bring God's peace and reconciliation to our families and our world. Preached at St. Mary of the Lake, Lake George, NY on 8-17-25

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on making tough choices in our modern world. He reminds us we need to make difficult decisions in order to follow God, and we should not settle for less. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 8-10-25

Tuesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time. For those who struggle with faith, Father Dave reassures us that there are doubters in Scripture as well. We ask God to strengthen our faith in him, but also for faith in ourselves and those around us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 8-5-25

Monday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses how God shows us signs, and other times does not. He reminds us that Jesus is present every day with us, even when we don't see dramatic miracles in our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 7-21-25

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's familiar Gospel story of the Good Samaritan. Rather than figure out who our neighbor is, our challenge is to show kindness and compassion to everyone we encounter. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 7-13-25

Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave shares his appreciation for the friendship he has with his sister, Diana. As in today's readings about Joseph and his 11 brothers, we can find hope that God can reconcile strained relationships. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 7-10-25

Tuesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave notes the popularity of the “Calm” app, and how society seeks to find peace amidst chaos. Jesus is with us in our struggles, and gives us the peace the world cannot give. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 7-01-25

Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles. On today's Solemnity, Father Dave reflects on the roles of Peter and Paul in the Church today. As the pope is the successor to Saint Peter, we are called to be the descendants of Saint Paul in today's world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 6-29-25

Thursday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave shares how Christianity requires our words and actions to match. We are called to act on our faith, rather than just to listen and pray. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 6-26-25

Monday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave notes Abraham's age in today's first reading, and how God calls him to amazing things late in life. Similarly, God continues to work through us regardless of our age. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 6-23-25

Tuesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time. While in Rome, Father Dave explains what we can learn from the two pillars of our Church, Saints Peter and Paul. Saint Peter represents the authority of the Church, while Saint Paul reminds us of our call to serve around the world. Preached at Church of Santo Spirito in Sassia, Rome, Italy on 6-10-25

Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. As the Italy pilgrimage continues to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Father Dave reflects on the Blessed Mother on today's feast. We are to behold Mary as our mother and invite her to pray with us. Preached at Basilica of St. Mary Major, Rome, Italy on 6-9-25

Pentecost Sunday, Vigil Mass. Father Dave explains how God transforms death to life through the Holy Spirit. We can find hope in how the Holy Spirit continues to teach and guide us in our lives today. Preached at St. Apostoli Church, Florence, Italy on 6-7-25

Friday of the Seventh Week of Easter. Father Dave relates pilgrimage travel to the greater struggle of waiting for things in life. He reminds us that our faith journey is not only about the destination, and we are always learning and growing through the Holy Spirit. Preached at Basilica of San Domenico, Siena, Italy on 6-6-25

Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr. While on pilgrimage in Italy, Father Dave explains the significance of Rome for Catholicism, as noted in today's first reading. He reminds the pilgrims how blessed they all are to be on this journey and that God wants to share his great love with us. Preached at Church of San Salvatore & Cirino in Abbadia Isola, Tuscany, Italy on 6-5-25

Monday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave explains today's reading through a story of a grandfather comforting a grandson. God desires to dwell with us and give us peace amid our struggles. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 5-25-25

While preaching in front of the Pope's cathedra in Rome, Father Dave reflects on the beauty of St. John Lateran and other basilicas. Just like these magnificent spaces, we are also God's temples and his spirit dwells within us. Preached at Basilica of St. John Lateran, Rome, Italy on 6-11-25

Feast of Saints Philip and James, Apostles. Father Dave celebrates his 25th Anniversary to the priesthood, and he explains why Jesus asks Peter to follow him after the Resurrection. Just like modern social media influencers, God sometimes needs to keep reminding us to follow and renew our commitment to him. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 5-4-25

Thursday of the Second Week of Easter. Father Dave notes how we sometimes wear sports jerseys in the workplace on casual Fridays. On today's feast of St. Joseph the Worker, we are called to bring our faith into all aspects of our lives, including our jobs. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 5-1-25

Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent. Father Dave focuses on Jesus' words about believing in his actions. He challenges us to match our behaviors with our faith as we approach Holy Week. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 4-11-25

Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent. Father Dave preaches about how we all sometimes need help remembering things. However, as noted in today's psalm, God never forgets his covenant with us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 4-10-25

Fifth Sunday of Lent. Father Dave asks us to think of a person we know who no longer goes to Church. He notes how the Paulist Fathers, and all of us, are called to minister to those at the margins of our faith. Preached at St. Gregory the Great Church, San Diego, CA on 4-6-25

Fourth Sunday of Lent. Father Dave notes how we may have trouble relating to today's reading of the Prodigal Son. The story is not just about one person, but how God joyfully embraces us all in forgiveness. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 3-30-25

Thursday of the Third Week of Lent. Father Dave reflects on how we may feel that evangelizing is futile. He quotes Kent M. Keith's paradoxical commandments, which say to “do it anyway” and see how God can still bear fruit. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 3-27-25

Wednesday of the First Week of Lent. Father Dave focuses on today's reading from Jonah and the dramatic conversion of the Ninevites. Rather than just one moment, we are called to have an ongoing conversion in our faith life and continually humble ourselves. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 3-12-25

Tuesday of the First Week of Lent. Father Dave recalls a time when he tried to persuade someone in a long, unnecessary email. We don't need to convince God to love us, but instead we are to trust him as our father. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 3-11-25

Tuesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave preaches about Jesus' tough words in the Gospel for those with wealth. As we approach Lent, St. Katharine Drexel can be a model for us to leave behind what's holding us back from God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 3-3-25

Tuesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave compares today's story of Noah's Ark to resetting a phone or computer when it's not working right. He reminds us that Christ's crucifixion renewed humanity, and we can also find ways to reboot our faith when it stalls. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 2-18-25

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave notes how Jesus' use of “blessed” in the Sermon on the Mount may seem strange to us. God offers hope beyond one's current suffering, and we are called to lift others up in our world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 2-16-25

Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin. Father Dave reflects on how those in the Scriptures are surprised and amazed by Jesus' miracles. However, with our knowledge of salvation history, we should have confident faith that God can perform miracles for us as well. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 2-10-25

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave recounts how all three readings today feature people who made radical changes in their lives after hearing God's call. He challenges us to boldly and loudly say yes to how God may be calling us today. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 2-09-25

Memorial of Saint Agatha, Virgin and Martyr. While many Christians know the phrase “offer it up,” Father Dave recalls how an old high school coach used to say “suck it up” in response to hardship. He reminds us that even the most extreme suffering does not keep us from Jesus. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 2-05-25

The Presentation of the Lord. Father Dave recounts Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus in the Temple, and how they practiced their faith just like us. He also notes what we can learn from listening to women and other lesser-heard voices in the Church. Preached at St. Gregory the Great Church in San Diego, CA on 2-03-25

Monday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses the concept of sacrifice in the Old Testament, and how Jesus transforms it. He also highlights how the Pharisees demonized Jesus without knowing him, and how we still do that to others today. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 1-27-25

Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle. On today's feast, Father Dave talks about how St. Paul evangelized to all the nations. We are also called to be like St. Paul and minister to those on the margins. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 1-25-25

Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. Father Dave reflects on Jesus' desire to restore humanity and make us whole. In light of today's feast, he challenges us to stand up for human life even when modern society considers it disposable. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 1-22-25

Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave notes how today's readings highlight both ends of the spectrum of faith. We are called to be open to how God may transform us rather than stay stubborn in our own ways. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 1-16-25

Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on the beginning of Ordinary Time and how it can feel repetitive to begin again. He reminds us that we choose to follow Jesus, and that commitment is constantly renewed. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 1-13-25