From the Desk of Father Mark - Our Pastor
November 23, 2025 - Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

"Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."

At the scene of the crucifixion, we are still learning the identity of Jesus. He is not passively dying but offering his life for a greater purpose. Next to him are two men. Both are going to lose their lives. One does not see the value of Jesus’ life from an eternal view. That one criminal observes the life of Jesus as an opportunity to regain an earthly status he is about to lose. In other words, this thief, if given a new chance, would return to his old ways. The other thief, the ‘good thief’ as he is sometimes referred, recognizes his old ways must die, and then realizes that a new life is with Jesus. “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom”. The statement of faith from the ‘good thief’ is the source of salvation for him. Faith has the ability to save and deliver. Jesus is declared “King of the Universe”, but the universe is the eternal life, which is present in this life and comes to fruition in the next life. We are on a journey through life, to death, to life everlasting and Jesus reveals the way.

“Luke shows Jesus in utter control. He forgives his executioners. He promises paradise to the repentant criminal. And having done these things, he entrusts his spirit to his Father in prayer and dies. His death is shown to be utterly consistent with his life, his life an enactment of this teaching. He is Philosopher, Prophet, Lord of God’s kingdom.” - Luke Timothy Johnson, The Gospel of Luke

As we approach Thanksgiving Day, I want to take the opportunity to thank you for your faithfulness to our Lord and His Church. In a time of secular saturation, the message of Christ and those who understand and believe it are a source of inspiration. May God bless you, those close to you, and all who need God's message of love, peace and mercy. Happy Thanksgiving!

“Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord, and let your faithful ones bless you.”

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN - If you haven’t yet considered the capital campaign, please do. The campaign ends at the conclusion of 2025. Thank you!

Have a great week!

Fr. Mark Walter
Pastor of Our Lady of the Ridge - St.Linus Parish