Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop 

Philippians 2:1-4
Psalm 130(131)
Luke 14:12-14

THE NECESSITY OF SERVICE AND OPENNESS

Cardinal Charles Borromeo, as both a bishop and a cardinal, played a pivotal role in fostering the intellectual and moral development of clergy and religious individuals, particularly through the establishment of new seminaries.

He contributed to the creation of the catechism mandated by the Council of Trent and initiated the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) to support the spiritual education of children.

Furthermore, Borromeo convened numerous special meetings within his home diocese of Milan to incorporate the teachings and directives of the Council of Trent. Throughout his ministry, he extended his outreach to the impoverished and vulnerable populations of his time, willingly sacrificing wealth, status, and influence to serve those in need.

He faced numerous challenges, including plagues and famines, dedicating himself to ministering to the sick, the hungry, and the dying. His commitment to service was remarkable, especially given his relatively brief life spanning 46 years.

In the present day, we are similarly called to grow and serve as members of the Church. We must transform our outdated practices and, akin to St. Paul in the Epistle to the Philippians, adopt a selfless approach that prioritizes the needs of others.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus underscores the necessity of openness and service, particularly toward the marginalized, including the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame—a marked departure from the attitudes typical of the Pharisees of His era.

The scriptural readings of today emphasize the importance of a changed heart and the service of others, both essential for discipleship in the tradition of Jesus and reflective of the principles upheld by St. Charles Borromeo.

May the inspiring and dedicated example of St. Charles Borromeo motivate us as contemporary Christians, urging us to embody the virtues of prayer and action in our efforts to fortify the Church today, through both our words and deeds.

Fr Joseph Osho