Bishop Silva emphasizes self-sacrifice during Second Sunday homily
On January 18, 2026, Bishop Clarence Silva delivered a homily for the Second Sunday of Ordinary Time, focusing on the symbolism of sheep and lambs in Christian tradition. In his message, Bishop Silva reflected on the sacrificial role of lambs and drew parallels to the teachings and example of Jesus.
“Despite the many beautiful images of sheep and lambs we are presented in the Scriptures, it needs to be said that very few people raise sheep as pets. Yes, the shepherd needs to lead them to green pastures where waters flow, but in the end, he will lead them to slaughter. Otherwise, he and his family will not eat. Sheep and lambs really do lay down their lives for us, giving us wool to keep us warm and to clothe us with dignity, but giving their own flesh for our nourishment.”
Bishop Silva continued by emphasizing John the Baptist’s recognition of Jesus as the Lamb of God: “When John the Baptist points out Jesus as the Lamb of God, this son of a priest knew very well that this was not simply an honorific title, but that this Lamb would literally lay down his life for us, even giving himself to us as food to nourish and strengthen us not only in this life, but in life everlasting.”
He also addressed how followers are called to emulate this self-giving love: “But Jesus gives himself to us in this way so that we can give ourselves to others in the same way, not being afraid to lay down our lives for others, so that they may have more abundant life. The people of Israel are told that it is too little for them to be his servants, they are, in fact, to be a light to all nations, attracting others to the true and living God by their own lives and their own commitments.”
The bishop highlighted parental responsibility within faith: “Children look to their parents to be their lambs, who lay down their lives for them, and parents do make many sacrifices for their children. But they are also called to have their children baptized and confirmed, so that they too can be not only servants of the Lord but a light to others because of the love of God that has been poured into them. This kind of love can be consuming, but it is a rewarding love that never ultimately burns one out.”
He encouraged community engagement: “As community members we are also called to be a light to the nations… When we see the homeless or witness wars or conflicts in the world it is never an option for us simply sit by passively. Like the Lamb of God we are called to be engaged in struggles of others just as Jesus engaged himself in our struggles…”
Reflecting on communion during Mass he said: “The words of John the Baptist ‘Behold the Lamb of God’ are… spoken when we are invited into intimate… communion with… Jesus… This communion is not simply for our own spiritual good but so that we may be fattened up… given spiritual bulk… then go out and nourish others with love…”
Bishop Silva concluded by reminding parishioners about sacrifice: “While a lamb might struggle a bit at moment he is slaughtered he then can give his life so others might live. So it was with Jesus… So it will be for us who are called… servants… sheep… light…”
The Diocese of Honolulu serves Catholics across Hawaii through its network of 66 parishes spanning multiple islands (official website). The diocese supports multicultural communities and offers programs such as education initiatives and social services (official website). It has operated since its founding as Vicariate Apostolic in 1847 before attaining diocesan status in 1941 (official website). Under Bishop Clarence Silva’s leadership (official website), its ministries focus on spreading Gospel values while addressing spiritual needs throughout Hawaii (official website).
