Father Dave Preaches

Monday of the Second Week of Lent. Father Dave notes how when someone complains about being in traffic, they are ironically part of the problem as one of the cars. He calls us to remember that we all need God's mercy this Lent, instead of judging others. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-02-26

Second Sunday of Lent. Father Dave reflects on today's Gospel story about the Transfiguration, and how we can identify with Peter's desire to stay on the mountaintop. God offers glimpses of the kingdom of heaven to help strengthen us for our difficult work as Christians. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-01-26

Ash Wednesday. Father Dave compares Lent to a time in his childhood when his mom would tidy up before a house cleaner would occasionally visit. We are to do our part this penitential season, but then let God create a clean heart in us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 02-18-26

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave explains today's Gospels through the film "The Matrix." It is our choice to follow Christ or not, and we are challenged to deepen our commitment to our faith as we approach Lent. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 02-15-26

Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on Solomon in today's readings, as well as those with money and power in our modern world. He reminds us to focus on the purity of our own hearts rather than seeking external validation. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 02-11-26

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. On this Super Bowl Sunday, Father Dave borrows a sports technique of visualizing a successful game. We are to actively live into our identities as salt of the earth and light of the world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 02-08-26

Memorial of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest and Doctor of the Church. Father Dave talks about medications that suppress appetite and even thoughts of food. We strive to block out worldly distractions to hear and receive the word of God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-28-26

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses the account of the Baptism of the Lord from John's Gospel. Like John the Baptist, we are to share how we witness Christ's presence in our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-18-26

Tuesday after Epiphany. Father Dave reflects on the life of Saint Andre Bessette on his feast day, and considers how God worked through his humble life. Despite our own shortcomings, God can do wonderful and powerful things through us in the world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-06-26

Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave shares his reliance on to-do lists to get things done. We are challenged to start bringing about the kingdom of God in concrete ways as we enter Ordinary Time. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-12-26

The Baptism of the Lord. Father Dave notes how it's hard to understand why Jesus would need to be baptized. Like John the Baptist, we are to trust in the Lord even when we don't know God's reasoning. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-11-26

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas). Father Dave reflects on his new eyeglasses with progressive lenses, and how God similarly sharpens our focus as he brings the light of Christ into the world. We are called to spread that light of Christmas to all, especially those suffering in darkness. Preached while serving as Chaplain of a Cruise Ship on 12-25-25

Third Sunday of Advent. Father Dave discusses how we sometimes question if we are hearing the voice of God. Just as Jesus assures John the Baptist in today's readings, God shows how he is with us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-14-25

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Father Dave compares Luke's Gospel account of the Annunciation to today's feast celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe. Mary proves that nothing is impossible for God, and we should not be afraid to bring him our needs. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-12-25

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

Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent. Father Dave reflects on today's first reading from Isaiah and reaffirms that God is never too busy for us. We can rest in the peace of God who always hears us, even if we feel far from him. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-10-25

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