Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

In a homily delivered on the Tenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, Bishop [Name] addressed the congregation with reflections on fear and faith. The bishop began by recounting common experiences of hearing spooky stories at night, which often lead to restlessness and anxiety. He drew parallels between these fears and the presence of Satan, who seeks to undermine peace and confidence in God.

"Satan was there at the beginning of creation when he tempted Adam and Eve to disobey God," the bishop said. "He was there in the lives of some of the people Jesus met, and Jesus cast out these demons from them."

The bishop emphasized that even though Satan's influence is real, believers can find confidence through their faith. This message was particularly directed at those about to be confirmed. "You will renew your baptismal promises in which you dare to say that you renounce Satan, and all his works and empty promises," he stated. "You will be anointed with the Holy Spirit, who is more powerful than any other unholy spirit."

The homily also touched on the significance of First Holy Communion for many present that day. The bishop explained that through receiving communion, believers allow Jesus to live within them. "We will take bread and wine, bless them, break them, and today give them to you in your First Holy Communion so that Jesus himself can live in you," he said.

He assured those gathered that this spiritual union would empower them against evil influences. "Jesus can go wherever you go because he will allow you to take into yourself today his Body and Blood," he noted.

Concluding his sermon, the bishop encouraged regular participation in church services as a means of sustaining this divine protection. "You must come back every Sunday to be renewed in this loving protection of the Lord," he urged.

The homily served as both a reassurance against fear and a call for deeper spiritual commitment among congregants.

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