Daily Parish Journey of Lent 2026

Thursday after Ash Wednesday

“Lent: choose life, take up your cross daily and follow me”

Lent begins with a simple but profound truth: our lives are shaped by the choices we make.

In the first reading, Moses places before the people a stark invitation—choose life. Not simply existence, not comfort, but the kind of life that comes from loving God, listening to His voice, and walking in His ways. It’s a reminder that faith is not passive; it’s a daily decision to turn toward the One who gives life.

The psalm deepens this image with a beautiful contrast. Those who root themselves in God’s word are like a tree planted near running water—steady, nourished, fruitful. Those who drift away become like chaff, blown about by whatever comes. Lent gently asks each of us: Where am I planted? What am I drawing strength from?

Jesus’ words in the Gospel bring the invitation into sharp focus. He speaks of His own path—one of suffering, surrender, and ultimately resurrection—and then turns to us: “Take up your cross daily and follow me.” Lent is not about dramatic gestures; it’s about the quiet, steady willingness to let God reshape our hearts one day at a time.

This season is an opportunity to choose life again—not in grand resolutions, but in small acts of love, moments of honesty, and renewed trust in God’s mercy. As we begin this journey, may we root ourselves deeply in the Lord, confident that He walks with us and leads us toward true life.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 19, 2026

Friday after Ash Wednesday

The Heart of True Fasting

As we journey into Lent, Friday after Ash Wednesday invites us to pause and reflect on what truly means to fast. The words of the prophet Isaiah ring out: God desires more than ritual—God seeks hearts that are moved to compassion and justice. Fasting is not just about abstaining from food or bowing our heads in sorrow; it’s about opening our lives to others, sharing bread with the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and breaking the chains of injustice.

Psalm 51 reminds us that God does not delight in empty sacrifices, but in a spirit that is contrite and humble. When we acknowledge our faults and turn to God with sincerity, we find mercy and renewal. “A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” This is the spirit that transforms our fasting into a living prayer.

The Gospel brings a gentle challenge: Jesus tells us that there is a time for fasting and a time for rejoicing. When we are close to Christ, our hearts are filled with joy, but there will be moments when we are called to deeper reflection and sacrifice. Lent is such a time—a season to seek good, turn from evil, and let God’s presence guide us.

Call to Action: Support the Black and Indian Missions

This Lent, let’s move beyond the surface and embrace the fast that God truly desires.

· Reach out to someone in need: This weekend, our parish will take up the Pastoral Solidarity Fund for the Black and Indian Missions Collection. Your generous gift supports the formation of lay leaders and catechists, outreach and evangelization programs, youth and young adult ministry, and the growing pastoral and spiritual needs across our country. Please prayerfully consider contributing to this collection. When we support the Black and Indian Missions, we stand in solidarity with a vibrant and faithful people, helping to build up the Body of Christ.

· Practice forgiveness: Mend a broken relationship or offer a word of kindness to someone who needs it.

· Pray with sincerity: Set aside a few moments each day to pray for a humble and contrite heart.

Let us make this season a time of real transformation—where our fasting leads to action, our prayers lead to compassion, and our hearts become more like Christ’s. Together, as a parish family, may we be a light to our community and a sign of God’s love in the world.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 20, 2026

Saturday after Ash Wednesday

Called to Compassion and Renewal

As Lent continues, today’s readings remind us that God’s call is for everyone—especially those who feel far from Him. In Isaiah 58:9b-14, God promises light and renewal to those who turn away from oppression and selfishness, and instead care for the afflicted and honor the Sabbath. When we act with compassion and justice, we become “repairers of the breach” and “restorers of ruined homesteads,” bringing hope and healing to our communities.

The psalm (Psalm 86:1-6) is a prayer for mercy and guidance, reminding us that God is always ready to forgive and help us walk in His truth.

In Ezekiel 33:11, God declares that He desires the conversion of sinners, not their destruction. Jesus echoes this in Luke 5:27-32, calling Levi the tax collector and assuring us that He came to call sinners to repentance, not the righteous.

Reflection for the Week:

How can we respond to God’s call for conversion in our lives? Are there ways we can show greater compassion or seek reconciliation? Lent is a time to turn away from what separates us from God and others, and to embrace the healing and renewal Christ offers. May we bring hope and restoration to our families, parish, and community.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 21, 2026

First Sunday of Lent

Journey from Creation to Redemption: A Lenten Invitation

As we enter the season of Lent, this Sunday’s readings invite us to reflect deeply on the story of humanity—from our creation, through our struggles, to the hope offered in Christ.

In Genesis, we witness God’s loving act of forming humanity from the earth and breathing life into us. We are reminded that our existence is a gift, rooted in God’s creative love. Yet, the story quickly turns to the reality of temptation and sin. The encounter with the serpent reveals how easily we can be swayed from God’s path, seeking wisdom and fulfillment apart from God’s will. The result is not only disobedience, but also a sense of shame and separation.

The psalmist’s cry in Psalm 51 echoes our own need for mercy: “Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.” Lent is a time to acknowledge our shortcomings, to seek forgiveness, and to trust in God’s compassion. The psalm assures us that God desires to create a clean heart within us and renew our spirit.

Paul’s words in Romans remind us that sin entered the world through one person, but so did grace and redemption through Jesus Christ. Where Adam’s disobedience brought condemnation, Christ’s obedience brings acquittal and new life. This is the heart of our Lenten journey: moving from the reality of sin to the promise of salvation.

Finally, in Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus faces temptation in the desert. Unlike Adam and Eve, Jesus remains steadfast, relying on God’s word and refusing to be swayed by the devil. His victory over temptation is a model for us, showing that with God’s help, we too can overcome the challenges we face. As we begin Lent, let us remember:  We are created in God’s image, called to live in relationship with the Creator. Temptation and sin are real, but so is God’s mercy. Through repentance, we open ourselves to God’s renewing grace. Jesus’ victory over temptation gives us hope and strength for our own journey.

May this season be a time of renewal, reflection, and growth as we walk together toward Easter.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 22, 2026

Monday of the First Week of Lent

Holiness is lived out in everyday actions 

“Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy.” These words from Leviticus (Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18)  set the tone for these readings, calling us to a life that mirrors God’s own holiness through our actions and relationships. The passage reminds us that holiness is not an abstract concept but is lived out in the everyday choices we make: being honest, just, compassionate, and loving toward our neighbors. We are challenged not only to avoid wrongdoing—such as stealing, lying, or holding grudges—but also to actively seek the good of others, especially the vulnerable.

The responsorial psalm (Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 15) echoes this call, celebrating the law of the Lord as “perfect, refreshing the soul” and “giving wisdom to the simple.” God’s commandments are not burdensome but are meant to bring joy, clarity, and justice into our lives. When we allow God’s word to shape our hearts, our words and actions become a source of life for those around us.

Saint Paul (2 Corinthians 6:2b), in his letter to the Corinthians, urges us to recognize that “now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation”. We are invited not to delay our response to God’s call but to embrace it today, in the present moment.

The Gospel (Matthew 25:31-46) reading from Matthew offers a vivid image of the final judgment, where the Son of Man separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The criteria are strikingly simple and practical: Did we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, care for the sick, and visit the imprisoned? Jesus identifies himself with “the least” among us, teaching that whatever we do—or fail to do—for others, we do for him.

This week, let us reflect on how we can embody God’s holiness in our daily lives. Are there opportunities to show kindness, seek justice, or forgive? Let us remember that holiness is found not only in prayer but in every act of love and mercy. May we hear Christ’s words anew and respond with generous hearts, knowing that in serving others, we serve the Lord himself.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 23, 2026

Tuesday of the First Week of Lent

Seeds of Trust and Mercy

In this Lenten season, Isaiah (Isaiah 55:10-11) reminds us that God’s Word is like life‑giving rain—always fruitful, always accomplishing His purpose.

The psalm (Psalm 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19) reassures us that the Lord hears the cry of the poor and draws close to the brokenhearted, rescuing all who turn to Him.

Jesus teaches us in the Our Father to pray (Matthew 6:7-15) with simplicity, trust, and a heart open to forgiveness—inviting us to let go of what burdens us and to extend mercy as we have received it.

May this Lent lead us to deeper trust, quieter prayer, and a renewed spirit of forgiveness.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 24, 2026

Wednesday of the First Week of Lent

“A Heart Turned Toward God”

These readings invite us into the deep and transformative mystery of repentance—a turning not born of fear, but of grace.

In the Book of Jonah (Jonah 3:1-10), we witness one of the most remarkable conversions in Scripture. At Jonah’s simple proclamation, the people of Nineveh—great and small, even their king—respond immediately. They fast, put on sackcloth, and turn from their violent ways. Their humility moves the heart of God, who chooses mercy over punishment. The message is clear: no one is beyond redemption when the heart is willing to change.

Our Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19) echoes this truth: “A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” God is not impressed by empty sacrifices or outward displays of piety; He desires a sincere heart, one open to being renewed. Lent is the season when we allow God to wash us clean, restore us, and breathe a “steadfast spirit” within us.

The Gospel (Luke 11:29-32) continues this theme as Jesus speaks of “the sign of Jonah.” Just as Jonah was a wake‑up call to Nineveh, Jesus Himself is the ultimate sign—a living invitation to conversion. But He warns that signs alone cannot change a heart; openness and humility must follow. The people of Nineveh responded to Jonah with repentance, while many in Jesus’ time resisted even as “something greater than Jonah” stood before them.

As we journey through Lent, these readings remind us that conversion is always possible, always welcomed, and always met with mercy. God does not tire of calling us back. Even now, He invites us— “Return to me with your whole heart.”

May this season be a time of honest reflection, renewed faith, and joyful return to the God who never stops seeking us.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 25, 2026

Thursday of the First Week of Lent

Trusting God With Confidence

Today’s readings invite us to trust God with renewed confidence. Queen Esther (Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25), facing danger and feeling utterly alone, turns to the Lord with total dependence, asking for the strength and words she needs. Her prayer shows that courage begins when we surrender our fears to God.

The psalm (Psalm 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8) echoes this trust: “Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.” God hears us, strengthens us, and completes the good work He begins in us.

Jesus reinforces this promise in the Gospel (Matthew 7:7-12): “Ask and it will be given to you… seek and you will find.” God delights in giving good gifts to His children and calls us to share that same generosity and compassion with others.

As we continue through this season, may we pray with Esther’s honesty, trust with the psalmist’s confidence, and live Jesus’ call to seek Him—and to love others as He loves us.

Lord God, You who hear us when we call, strengthen our trust in Your goodness. Give us the courage of Esther, the confidence of the psalmist, and the perseverance to seek You in all things. Place Your words in our hearts and on our lips, that we may bring Your hope and mercy to others. Guide us today and always.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 26, 2026

Friday of the First Week of Lent

New Heart, New Beginning

Dear brothers and sisters,

As we move through the quiet grace of Lent, today's readings remind us of something every one of us needs to hear from time to time: God’s heart is always turned toward mercy.

Through the prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 18:21-28), the Lord tells us that He takes no pleasure in the downfall of anyone, but instead rejoices when a person turns back toward Him and chooses life. When we make that turn—no matter how long we’ve been walking in the wrong direction—God meets us with forgiveness and hope. Every step toward goodness is honored; every sincere return welcomed. Lent, then, is not about shame, but about the possibility of beginning again.

Psalm (Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-7a, 7bc-8) gives voice to the prayer of a heart that knows its own weakness. It is a cry “from the depths,” yet it is also filled with trust. The psalmist reminds us that none of us could stand if God kept a strict record of our sins—but God chooses forgiveness instead. His kindness and redemption are deeper than our failings, and He invites us to rest in that mercy.

In the Gospel (Matthew 5:20-26), Jesus gently but firmly calls us to look inward. It is not enough to avoid outward wrongdoing; true discipleship begins in the heart. Anger, resentment, harsh words, and broken relationships can weigh heavily on our spiritual lives. Jesus urges us to seek reconciliation—even before offering our gifts at the altar—because healing our relationships is part of how we worship God. This is His pastoral invitation: let peace take root in your heart, and let mercy guide your steps.

As we continue through Lent, perhaps we can each pause and ask: Where is God inviting me to return to Him? Whom do I need to reach out to with forgiveness or understanding? What burdens am I carrying “from the depths” that God wants to lift from my heart?

May this season be a gentle turning—back toward God, back toward one another, and back toward the peace we long for. May the Lord create within us the “new heart and new spirit” He promises to all who open themselves to His grace.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 27, 2026

Saturday of the First Week of Lent  Walking the Path of True Discipleship

Dear brothers and sisters,

As we continue our Lenten journey, today’s readings invite us into a deeper awareness of the sacred relationship God desires with each of us. In Deuteronomy  (Deuteronomy 26:16-19), Moses reminds the people that God has chosen them—chosen us—to be “a people peculiarly His own,” calling us to walk in His ways with all our heart and soul. Lent becomes a time to renew this covenant, not out of obligation, but out of love. God longs to lift us up, to heal, and to make us whole.

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8) echoes this longing: “Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord.” These aren’t mere rules; they are pathways to freedom. When we align our hearts with God’s will, we discover the peace, clarity, and joy that only He can give.

In the Gospel   (Matthew 5:43-48), Jesus deepens the call even further: “Love your enemies… pray for those who persecute you.” These challenging words remind us that holiness isn’t measured simply by how we treat those who treat us well, but by how we respond when love is difficult. God’s love is extravagant—He lets the sun shine on the good and the bad alike. When we choose to love beyond comfort, convenience, or reciprocity, we reflect the very heart of our Heavenly Father.

Lent is a season of transformation. Today’s Scriptures invite us to ask: Where is God calling me to renew my commitment to Him? Who in my life needs forgiveness, patience, or a prayer—especially when it’s hard? How can I grow toward the holiness Jesus describes: not perfection as flawlessness, but perfection as fullness of love?

May this week of Lent draw us ever deeper into God’s covenant of mercy. May we walk in His ways with renewed trust and openness. And may our hearts become more like His—steadfast, compassionate, and overflowing with love. Lord Jesus, guide our steps as we follow You this Lent. Strengthen us in love, soften our hearts in forgiveness, and help us grow as true disciples. May Your grace lead us closer to You each day.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, February 28, 2026

Second Sunday of Lent 

 Faith: Stepping Out of our Comfort Zones 

Today’s readings, we’re reminded that faith means stepping out of our comfort zones—just like Abram  did (Genesis 12:1-4a), trusting in God’s promise to be a blessing for others. When life feels uncertain, let’s place our hope in God’s mercy (Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22), knowing that kindness surrounds us even in hardship.

Saint Paul (2 Timothy 1:8b-10) encourages us to rely on God’s strength, not our own, as we face challenges for the sake of the Gospel. And in the Gospel (Matthew 17:1-9), Jesus reassures us: “Rise, and do not be afraid.” Let’s listen to him, find courage, and share his love with those around us.

This week’s challenge: Reach out to someone in need, offer encouragement, and trust that God’s promises are for you and for those you bless.

May this week be a time to renew our trust in God, to listen more closely to Jesus, and to step forward in faith, knowing that God’s promises are sure and his mercy never fails.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 1st, 2026

Monday of the Second Week of Lent 

 Be Merciful

Today’s readings remind us that God’s mercy is always greater than our failures. Daniel’s prayer (Daniel 9:4b-10) acknowledges the people’s sins but rests in God’s compassion and forgiveness. The psalm (Psalm 79:8, 9, 11 and 13) echoes this trust: “Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.”

In the Gospel (Luke 6:36-38), Jesus calls us to imitate the Father’s mercy. Lent isn’t only about giving things up—it’s about giving mercy freely. We are invited to forgive, to refrain from judging, and to offer generosity without measure.

May this week draw us deeper into God’s healing love and may our acts of mercy reflect the grace we ourselves receive from God.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 2nd, 2026

Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent 

 A New Heart, A Humble Path

Today’s readings draw us into the core of Lent: the call to genuine inner change.

In the first reading (Isaiah 1:10, 16-20), Isaiah urges us, “Wash yourselves clean… learn to do good.” God isn’t looking for perfect people—He’s looking for people willing to begin again, to let Him renew the heart. Even if our sins are as scarlet, He promises to make them “white as snow.” Lent is God’s invitation to transformation—real, practical, compassionate.

Psalm (Psalm 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23) reminds us that God desires sincerity more than show. Faith isn’t measured by outward actions alone but by whether our hearts are aligned with truth, justice, and mercy. God wants worship that overflows into the way we treat others.

In the Gospel (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus warns against religious performance. The scribes and Pharisees teach well, but they do not live what they teach. Their faith becomes about appearances—about being seen, honored, admired. Jesus turns that upside down. His definition of greatness is simple: “The greatest among you must be your servant.” Humility, service, and integrity—not titles—are what mark a true disciple.

So Lent invites us to a simple and honest examination: Where do I need to “wash clean” and begin again? How can I practice justice and mercy in concrete ways this week? Are there places where I’m more concerned with appearances than with sincerity? How can I lift burdens rather than add to them? If we allow God to touch our hearts, Lent becomes not a season of pressure but a season of grace—a time when the Lord gently “sets things right within us” and leads us deeper into the humble path of Christ.

May these weeks renew our hearts, deepen our sincerity, and draw us closer to the One who transforms us with mercy.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 3, 2026

Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent

True Greatness Through Service

In the first reading  (Jeremiah 18:18–20), we hear the heartbreaking cry of Jeremiah, betrayed by the very people he served. They plot against him, twisting his own words and repaying his goodness with evil. Jeremiah turns to God and says, “Must good be repaid with evil?”

This moment invites us to reflect on our own discipleship. Sometimes doing what is right—speaking truth, calling others to conversion—leads to misunderstanding, criticism, or even rejection. Jeremiah reminds us that faithfulness is not measured by how we are treated, but by how we remain rooted in God even in adversity.

The responsorial psalm (Psalm 31:5-6, 14, 15-16) becomes the perfect prayer for Jeremiah’s situation—and for ours. “Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.”  This is not a cry of defeat but an affirmation of trust. Even as people whisper, criticize, or scheme, the psalmist proclaims:  “My trust is in you, O LORD… In your hands is my destiny.”  Faith sometimes means placing our fears, our wounds, and our uncertainties into God’s hands, believing He holds us more securely than any earthly power.

Jesus (Matthew 20:17–28) predicts His passion openly: rejection, suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection. And right after this solemn revelation, the mother of James and John asks for positions of honor in His kingdom. Jesus gently corrects the misunderstanding:

“Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” His chalice is one of self‑giving love, not earthly glory.
He then teaches the heart of Christian leadership and discipleship: “Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant… the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve.”

This reverses the world’s values. True greatness in God’s kingdom comes not from power, status, or recognition, but from humility, service, and sacrificial love.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 4, 2026

Thursday of the Second Week of Lent

Rooted in God, Open to Others

My brothers and sisters, today’s readings invite us to examine where we place our trust, how we shape our lives, and what our choices ultimately lead to.

1. Trusting in God vs. Trusting in Ourselves

Jeremiah (Jeremiah 17:5–10)  draws a stark contrast between the person who places trust only in human strength—described as “a barren bush in the desert… in a salt and empty earth”—and the one who places trust in the Lord, like “a tree planted beside the waters… whose leaves stay green.”

This imagery invites us to ask: Do I rely only on myself, my plans, my abilities, my resources? Or do I allow God to nourish my life at its roots?

Jeremiah also reminds us that the human heart is complicated—“more tortuous than all else”—and that God alone sees our true motivations. Lent is a sacred time to let God “probe and test the heart” so He can lead us toward deeper conversion.

2. The Way of the Just Flourishes

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6) continues the theme: the one who delights in God’s law is “like a tree planted near running water… whose leaves never fade”—an echo of Jeremiah’s promise. The psalm reminds us that: faithfulness anchors us, prayer and reflection refresh us and stability and fruitfulness come not from success but from rootedness in God. Meanwhile, the wicked are “like chaff which the wind drives away”—a warning that a life without spiritual grounding ultimately lacks weight and substance.

3. Seeing or Failing to See Our Neighbor

In Luke’s Gospel (Luke 16:19-31), Jesus offers a powerful and unsettling parable. A wealthy man lives comfortably while a suffering man, Lazarus, lies at his door, longing for scraps. After death, their fortunes reverse dramatically: Lazarus is comforted, and the rich man suffers torment. The sin of the rich man is not cruelty—it is indifference. He stepped over Lazarus every day and failed to see him as a brother. Lent asks us: who is “lying at our door”?  Who in our family, parish, or community needs to be noticed, heard, or fed—spiritually or physically? Where have we allowed comfort or busyness to blind us? Abraham’s final words are striking: even a miraculous sign—“someone rising from the dead”—would not persuade those who ignore God’s word. It is a reminder that conversion begins with listening, with opening our hearts to Scripture, and with allowing God’s Word to change our lives.

In conclusion, today’s readings encourage us toward a Lenten transformation that is both inward and outward: Inward Conversion (examine where we truly place our trust and allow God to heal and shape our hearts - Outward Conversion  (notice the people God places in our path and respond with mercy, generosity, and compassion. Ultimately, the readings assure us that a life anchored in God—like a tree planted by water—can withstand drought, bear fruit, and shine as a blessing to others.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 5, 2026

Friday of the Second Week of Lent

God Brings Good Out of Rejection

Joseph and His Brothers  

In the first reading (Genesis 37:3–28), we witness the dramatic turning point in the life of Joseph. His father Israel’s deep affection for him and the gift of the special tunic provoke jealousy and resentment in his brothers. Their envy grows so strong that they plot to kill him and ultimately sell him into slavery. This scene reminds us how destructive jealousy can be when left unchecked. What begins as quiet resentment quickly escalates into violence and betrayal. Yet, even in this tragedy, God is at work. The psalm reminds us that God  “sent a man before them, Joseph, sold as a slave” so that he might later become the means of saving his people during famine. We may not plot harm like Joseph’s brothers, but envy can still poison our relationships and blind us to God’s blessings in our own lives. Joseph’s story encourages us to trust that even when circumstances seem unfair, God is quietly shaping something redemptive.

God Works Through Brokenness

The responsorial psalm (Psalm 105:16-17, 18-19, 20-21)  interprets Joseph’s suffering through the lens of God’s fidelity. Though Joseph was chained and humiliated, “the word of the Lord proved him true” and God eventually exalted him to a position of great responsibility. Our trials may feel senseless in the moment, but God sees the entire picture. What we endure today might become the source of someone else’s salvation tomorrow.

God turns human sin into the very path of salvation

In the Gospel (Matthew 21:33–46), Jesus tells a parable of a landowner whose trusted tenants violently reject every servant he sends and ultimately kill his own son to steal the inheritance. The chief priests and elders realize Jesus is speaking directly about them, revealing their rejection of God’s messengers and of Jesus Himself. Like Joseph in the first reading, the Son is betrayed—not because of His wrongdoing, but because of others’ jealousy and desire for control. Yet Jesus reminds us that “the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone”. God turns human sin into the very path of salvation. This parable is a call to examine the ways we resist God’s invitations. Are there “messengers” in our lives (Scripture, conscience, the poor, the Church) whom we silence or ignore because they challenge us? Do we accept the Son when He comes to us, or do we push Him aside to preserve our comfort?

My brothers and sisters, God can transform human jealousy, rejection, and suffering into instruments of salvation. Joseph, rejected by his brothers, becomes their savior. Jesus, rejected by His own people, becomes the cornerstone of God’s Kingdom. What seems to be the end is often the beginning of God’s greatest work. Come Lord and transform anything in our lives that feels like betrayal, loss, or misunderstanding. 

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 6, 2026

Saturday of the Second Week of Lent

A Feast of Mercy in the Heart of Lent

Brothers and sisters, Lent often brings us face‑to‑face with our need for mercy, and today’s readings shine a gentle but unmistakable light on the heart of God, a heart that never tires of forgiving.

Micah  (Micah 7:14-15, 18-20) speaks of a God who “casts our sins into the depths of the sea” and delights not in anger but in compassion. It’s a striking image: God doesn’t simply overlook our failures; He actively removes them, choosing mercy over judgment again and again. This is the God who shepherds His people, who restores what has been scattered, who remembers His promises even when we forget ours.

The Gospel (Luke 15:1-3, 11-32) brings this mercy to life in one of Jesus’ most beloved parables. The younger son’s journey is painfully familiar—restlessness, poor choices, the slow unraveling of a life lived far from the Father. But the turning point comes not in his misery, but in his memory: “How many of my father’s workers have more than enough…” He remembers the goodness he once knew, and that memory becomes the doorway to repentance.

What surprises us is not the son’s return, but the father’s response. He runs something no dignified patriarch would do. He embraces before the apology is finished. He restores before the son can negotiate his place. Mercy moves faster than sin.

And then there is the older son, whose resentment mirrors our own moments of spiritual stinginess. He has done everything “right,” yet his heart has grown narrow. The father’s words to him are as tender as those spoken to the prodigal: “Everything I have is yours.” Mercy is not a limited resource; it is family inheritance.

Lent invites us to stand in both sons’ shoes, to come home when we’ve wandered, to rejoice when others return, to let God’s mercy reshape our hearts so that we can extend it freely.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 7, 2026

Third Sunday of Lent
Living Water for the Journey of Faith

Dear brothers and sisters,

This Sunday, the readings remind us of the deep thirst we carry in our hearts: thirst for hope, for meaning, and for the faithful presence of God. Like the people of Israel in the desert in the first reading (Exodus 17:3–7), we too face moments of doubt, yet God remains close and always provides.

The Psalm (Psalm 95:1–2, 6–7, 8–9) invites us to listen to the voice of the Lord with an open heart, while Saint Paul (Romans 5:1–2, 5–8) assures us that faith in Christ brings us peace and a love that never fails.

In the Gospel (John 4:5–42), Jesus offers the Samaritan woman the gift of living water, reminding us that only He can fully satisfy our lives. This encounter reminds us that God seeks us, meets us where we are, and invites us to worship Him “in spirit and in truth.” Like the Samaritan woman, we are called to share our stories and invite others to experience the transforming love of Christ.

Through the intercession of Saint Frances of Rome, may this week be for our community a time of spiritual renewal and trust in God’s grace. We invite you, brother and sister, to live this week with an open heart:  Seek moments of silence to listen to God’s voice. Give thanks for His gifts with joy. Share His light with those who need hope. Let us walk together toward the source of living water, which is Christ.

Happy  Women's Day to all the women of our parish. Congratulations to our parish's Woman of the Year 2026, Arline Ramírez.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 8, 2026

Monday of the Third Week of Lent

When Healing Flows Like Quiet Waters

Dear brothers and sisters,

Today’s readings remind us that God often works through simple, unexpected means.

Naaman (2 Kings 5:1-15ab) sought a dramatic miracle, yet his healing came through a humble act, washing in the Jordan. His story invites us to let go of pride and trust God, even when His ways seem ordinary.

The psalm (Psalm 42:2, 3; 43:3, 4) speaks to a deep truth: our souls thirst for the living God. This longing is God’s quiet invitation, drawing us closer to Him.

In the Gospel (Luke 4:24-30), Jesus faces rejection from His own hometown because they could not see God at work in someone familiar. Like them, we may overlook the ways God speaks through everyday people and moments.

This week, as a parish community, may we stay open to God’s gentle promptings and recognize His grace in the simple, surprising places of our lives.  Lord God, Open our hearts to Your quiet invitations. Give us the humility to follow where You lead and the eyes to see Your grace in the ordinary moments of our days. Heal what is wounded, strengthen what is weak, and draw us ever closer to You, the living God we thirst for.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 9, 2026

Tuesday of the Third Week of Lent

The Heart’s Journey Back to Grace

Dear brother and sisters,

In today’s readings, God invites us into a deeper experience of His mercy, one that meets us in our struggles, guides us in humility, and calls us to extend forgiveness from the heart.

Walking Through the Fire

In the first reading (Daniel 3:25, 34-43), Azariah prays from the midst of the flames, acknowledging the sins of his people and pleading: “Do not take away your mercy from us… we are reduced… because of our sins”. He has no offerings to give, only a “contrite heart and humble spirit”. This becomes the true sacrifice God desires. Like Azariah, we, too, face our own “fires” in life. Yet God meets us there, and our trials can become places of grace when we open our hearts to Him.

Remember Your Mercies

The psalmist (Psalm 25:4-5ab, 6 and 7bc, 8-9) teaches us how to pray: “Your ways, O Lord, make known to me… Guide me in your truth”. Before asking for anything else, he asks for God’s guidance, truth, and mercy. In this Lenten season, this is our path as well, letting God teach us the ways of humility, justice, and compassion.

Return to Me

God’s call is tender (Joel 2:12–13): “Return to me with your whole heart… for I am gracious and merciful.” God does not seek perfection; He seeks our hearts. Every step we take toward Him is met with His mercy already running toward us.

Forgive Without Counting

Peter (Matthew 18:21–35) asks Jesus how often we should forgive: “As many as seven times?” Jesus responds: “Not seven… but seventy‑seven times.” He then tells a parable of a servant forgiven a tremendous debt who refuses to forgive a small one. This story mirrors our own lives. God has shown us immense mercy; we are called to extend that same mercy to others. Jesus reminds us that forgiveness must come “from the heart.”

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 10, 2026

Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent

Faith in Action

Today’s readings invite us to rediscover the beauty, wisdom, and nearness of God’s law not as a burden, but as a gift.

A Law That Gives Life

In Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9), Moses reminds the people that God’s commandments are meant to help them live and flourish. God is not distant or indifferent; He is a God who walks closely with His people, guiding them through loving instructions. Moses urges Israel not only to remember these teachings but to pass them on, because faith is meant to be lived and shared.

A God Who Speaks and Sustains

The psalm (Psalm 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20) continues this theme, praising a God whose word is powerful enough to shape creation, sending snow, forming frost, strengthening a city, blessing families. God’s word isn’t abstract; it is active, sustaining, and deeply involved in everyday life.

Jesus Fulfills the Law With Love

In the Gospel (Matthew 5:17-19), Jesus makes it clear that He came not to erase the law but to fulfill it. He deepens its meaning, showing that the commandments lead us not just to obedience but to holiness and relationship. Faithfulness in small things matters. Every choice we make to live God’s way becomes a light to others.

These readings remind us that: God’s guidance is a gift, not a restriction. Our faith is meant to be remembered, lived, and passed on in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Jesus calls each of us to a life of integrity, where our actions match the faith, we profess. Even our smallest acts of fidelity, kindness, honesty, forgiveness, help build the Kingdom of God.

May we, as a parish family, embrace God’s word with grateful hearts, live it with joy, and hand it on to the next generation with love.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 11, 2026

Thursday of the Third Week of Lent

Strengthening Our Parish in Unity and Mission

The Scriptures remind us of that God continually calls His people to listen and return to Him with a sincere heart.

Jeremiah (Jeremiah 7:23-28) laments that many turned their backs on God, yet the Lord remains patient and merciful, always inviting us back.

In this Lenten season, let us renew our openness to God’s voice (Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9) through prayer, silence, and participation in our parish life.

The Gospel (Luke 11:14-23) teaches that a divided heart cannot stand. Unity in our families, ministries, and parish community is essential for the Kingdom of God to flourish among us. Are there divisions within our families? Within our parish ministries? Within our own hearts?

Some pastoral application for our Parish today:  strengthening our listening as a community (renew attentiveness in: Scripture, Liturgy, One another, the needs of the poor and Parish pastoral initiatives (retreats, Bible courses, small communities, etc.) – Healing Division and Building Peace inspired by our parish’s monthly pastoral themes calling for dialogue, peace, and compassion (e.g. Let every ministry becomes a school of reconciliation) - Recognizing the Finger of God at Work (In parish life, the “finger of God” appears in small acts: a volunteer serving quietly, a catechist encouraging a child, a family returning to confession, a parishioner participating in reflection opportunities) - Commitment to Missionary Discipleship (we have  a vibrant missionary identity, especially in the Missionary Center’s vision of forming missionary disciples). This is, my brothers and sisters, a living expression of today’s Gospel: “Whoever does not gather with me, scatters.” Let us gather not scatter through service, evangelization, and joyful witness.

May we welcome God’s grace, seek reconciliation, and walk together in faith as missionary disciples committed to peace, compassion, and service.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 12, 2026

Friday of the Third Week of Lent

Return to Love

Today’s readings draw us into a single, powerful theme: God calls us back to a life shaped by love.

In Hosea, the Lord invites His people to return so He may heal, renew, and love them freely. God’s mercy is not reluctant, it is restoring, life‑giving, and always ready to welcome us home.

The Psalm echoes this longing as God pleads, “Hear my voice.” He desires not to burden us, but to guide, nourish, and bless us, if only we will listen.

In the Gospel, Jesus reveals what lies at the heart of discipleship: Love God completely. Love your neighbor generously.  These two commandments are the path to the Kingdom and the measure of every faithful life.

As we continue our Lenten journey, may we return to love,  receiving God’s mercy, listening for His voice, and choosing love in all we do.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 13, 2026

Saturday of the Third Week of Lent

Return to the Lord with a Humble Heart

The readings for this Saturday remind us of the true heart of Lent: returning to the Lord with humility and sincerity.

In the first reading (Hosea 6:1-6), the prophet Hosea presents us a God who does not abandon His people, but invites them back to life: “He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has struck us, but He will bind our wounds.” Yet God also denounces a love that is light, fleeting, like “morning dew.” That is why He states firmly: “I desire mercy, not sacrifices.” God wants a heart that truly loves, not empty religious practices.

The psalmist (Psalm 51:3-4, 18-19, 20-21ab) echoes this same spirit and turns it into prayer: what pleases the Lord is a contrite and humbled heart, a heart that acknowledges its fragility and opens itself to forgiveness.

In the Gospel (Luke 18:9-14), Jesus shows us two very different attitudes before God: the Pharisee, confident in himself, compares himself to others and boasts of his works. His prayer is filled with pride. The tax collector, on the other hand, knows he needs mercy and can only say: “Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Jesus concludes that only the latter returns home justified, because God looks at the truth of the heart, not the outward shine of actions.

This message is especially valuable for our community life: faith is not measured by comparisons or appearances, but by a heart that recognizes its need for God and is willing to love others.

May this Lent be a time to return to the Lord, setting aside pride, self-sufficiency, and judgment, and receiving the mercy He is always ready to give us.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 14, 2026

Fourth Sunday of Lent

From Seeing to Believing: The Blind Man’s Path to Faith

On this fourth Sunday of Lent, called Laetare Sunday (“Rejoice”), the Church invites us to pause on our Lenten journey and allow the joy that comes from God to enter our hearts. It is a Sunday that brightens our shadows and reminds us that the Lord is already at work deep within us.

We are shown first (1 Samuel 16:1b, 6–7, 10–13a) that God does not look at appearances, but at what dwells within each person. Just as He chose David—small in the eyes of the world but great in the eyes of the Lord—so too He looks upon our hearts with tenderness and truth.

The Psalm (Psalm 23:1–3a, 3b–4, 5, 6) assures us that we do not walk alone: even in the darkest moments, the Good Shepherd sustains us and guides us. This day is an invitation to breathe deeply and trust once again in His faithful presence.

Saint Paul (Ephesians 5:8–14) reminds us that we not only receive the light of Christ, but we are called to reflect it. Living as children of the light means letting Him illuminate our decisions and heal those areas where shadows still linger.

The Gospel (John 9:1–41) of the man born blind shows us that faith is a journey of progressive encounter with Jesus: seeing Him first as a man, then as a prophet, until finally recognizing Him as Lord. True blindness is not in the eyes, but in a heart that closes itself.

Finally, Jesus asks us a simple and profound question: “Do you want to see?” To see our own fragilities without fear, to see others with mercy, to see God acting in the small things of each day. Allowing Christ to open our eyes is permitting authentic joy to be born within us.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 15, 2026

Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent

A Newness Born in Faith

Today’s readings remind us of God’s desire to renew our lives and fill us with hope.

Isaiah (Isaiah 65:17-21) promises a “new heavens and a new earth,” where sorrow and fear give way to joy and fullness of life.

The Psalm (Psalm 30:2 and 4, 5-6, 11-12a and 13b) echoes this hope: God lifts us from darkness and turns our mourning into dancing. We are invited to recognize His saving hand in our daily struggles.

Amos calls us to a simple but powerful path: “Seek good and not evil, so that you may live.” Choosing goodness—patience, kindness, forgiveness—allows God’s presence to flourish in our parish.

Finally, in the Gospel (John 4:43-54), the royal official shows a faith that believes Jesus’ word even before seeing the miracle. His trust brings healing and leads his whole household to belief.

May these readings encourage us to trust more deeply, seek the good, and welcome the newness God wants to create in our community.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 16, 2026

Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Lent

May the Lord flood your life with His love

Ezekiel’s (Ezekiel 47:1-9, 12) vision shows God’s grace beginning like a small stream that grows into a river bringing life. God works the same way in us—quietly at first, then powerfully when we open our hearts.

The Psalm (Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9) reminds us that God is our steady refuge, even when life feels shaken.

In the Gospel (John 5:1-16), Jesus asks: “Do you want to be well?” His invitation is not only to heal but to renew hope.

Today, the Lord approaches our wounds and weariness and gently says: “Rise and walk. I am with you.”

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 17, 2026

Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent

God’s Unfailing Mercy

The readings of this day invite us to contemplate the tender and faithful love of God.

The prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 49:8-15)  proclaims that the Lord never forgets His people; even when everything seems lost, He assures us: “Even if a mother should forget, I will never forget you.” This promise strengthens the heart in times of trial.

The psalm (Psalm 145:8-9, 13cd-14, 17-18)  responds with a song of trust: the Lord is compassionate, merciful, and close to all who call upon Him. His love does not grow weary; His goodness lifts up those who fall and brings relief to the burdened.

In the Gospel (John 5:17-30), Jesus reveals that the Father is always at work giving us life, and the Son acts in that same mercy. His voice calls us out of our shadows and invites us to pass from death into life.

May this certainty renew our hope and strengthen our faith, helping us to recognize God’s constant work within our history and to proclaim it with joy. Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, pray for us.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 18, 2026

Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Rooted in God’s Faithfulness

Today we are reminded that God is the One who builds: our homes, our futures, and the very foundations of our faith.

In the first reading (2 Samuel 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16), God promises David a kingdom that will endure forever, not because of human strength but because of God’s unfailing faithfulness.

The psalm (Psalm 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29) echoes this steady love, praising God whose kindness is “established forever”. When life feels uncertain, we can rest on promises that do not change.

Saint Paul (Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22) points us to Abraham, who hoped “against hope” and believed even when the promise seemed impossible. His faith encourages us to trust God when circumstances challenge our peace.

In the Gospel (Luke 2:41-51a), Jesus is found in His Father’s house, listening and asking questions, growing in wisdom and rooted in God’s love. Like Mary and Joseph, we sometimes search anxiously, but God is always at work, often in quiet and hidden ways.

May we trust God’s faithfulness, hold onto hope,  praise God for His promises, and help one another grow in faith and love.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 19, 2026

Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Grace That Strengthens the Heart

Walking With the Just One

Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the tension between the ways of God and the ways of the world.

The First Reading from the Book of Wisdom (Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22) describes how those who reject God feel threatened by the life of a just person. Simply seeing someone who lives with integrity challenges them, so they respond with hostility. This foreshadows Christ Himself, the innocent one whose goodness exposes darkness, yet whose patience and gentleness remain.

The Lord Is Close to the Brokenhearted

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 34:17-18, 19-20, 21 and 23) reassures us that God hears the cry of the suffering and saves the discouraged. Even when life feels heavy or unfair, God does not abandon His people. As a parish, we are invited to mirror this tenderness to accompany the hurting, listen to the discouraged, and offer hope to those carrying hidden burdens.

His Hour Had Not Yet Come  

In the Gospel (John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30), Jesus moves carefully because His life is threatened, yet He still goes to the feast and teaches openly. People are confused, they see His authority, yet doubt because they “know where He is from.” Jesus reveals the deeper truth: He comes from the Father. Though some try to arrest Him, they cannot, because His hour had not yet come. God’s plan unfolds on God’s time.

A Word for Our Community

These readings invite us to ask: are we living our faith with courage and gentleness? Do we remain faithful even when misunderstood? Do we trust that God walks with us in suffering? Can we surrender to God’s timing rather than our own? As a parish, may we be a place where justice, compassion, and hope are lived out daily.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 20, 2026

Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Faith in Times of Challenge: Trust and Unity

Today’s readings remind us that faithfulness to God can sometimes lead to misunderstanding or opposition.

Like Jeremiah (Jeremiah 11:18-20), who faced betrayal, we are called to entrust our struggles to the Lord, knowing He searches hearts and defends the just.

The psalm (Psalm 7:2-3, 9bc-10, 11-12) echoes this confidence: “O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge.” As a parish, we are invited to be a community where people find refuge—where compassion, listening, and support reflect God’s protection.

In the Gospel (John 7:40-53),  Jesus’ words cause division, yet even the guards recognize the uniqueness of His message. Nicodemus shows courage by defending what is right, even when unpopular. We, too, are called to stand for truth with humility and openness.

As we continue through Lent, may we deepen our trust in God, respond to challenges with grace, and cultivate a parish home where understanding and unity grow.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 21, 2026

Fifth Sunday of Lent

Walking Toward New Life in Christ

Dear brothers and sisters,

On this Fifth Sunday of Lent, we draw closer to the mystery of Resurrection. We pray especially for our OCIA  brothers and sisters as they celebrate their third Scrutiny.

Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37:12-14) reminds us that God’s Spirit brings life where all seems dry or broken, renewing His people and calling them back to Him.

Saint Paul (Romans 8:8-11) affirms that this same Spirit already dwells within us, giving strength, freedom, and guidance as we walk in faith.

In today’s Gospel (John 11:1-45), Jesus shows both His humanity and divinity, sharing the grief of Martha and Mary, then calling Lazarus from the tomb. His declaration, “I am the Resurrection and the Life”, is an invitation for each of us to rise to new life.

Through baptism, we are called to let go of the old self and live as a renewed people marked by peace, love, mercy, joy, and justice.

May this Lenten season open our hearts to the transforming power of the Spirit.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 22, 2026

Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent

Walking the Path of Mercy

Today’s Scriptures invite us to reflect on justice, mercy, and the God who truly sees the heart.

In the story of Susanna (Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62), an innocent woman is trapped by the lies of powerful men. She chooses faithfulness over compromise, trusting that God knows the truth even when others do not. And God does intervene—raising up Daniel to uncover injustice. God defends the innocent and brings light to what is hidden.

In the Gospel (John 8:1-11), a woman caught in real sin is dragged before Jesus. Her accusers want punishment, not conversion. But Jesus turns their gaze inward: “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone.” One by one, the stones drop. Jesus alone, the sinless one, offers not condemnation but a new beginning: “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and sin no more.” Where Susanna is vindicated in her innocence, the woman in the Gospel is restored in her sinfulness. Both receive God’s mercy—one through justice, one through forgiveness.

As we continue our Lenten journey, these readings ask us: Do we trust God when we are judged unfairly? Do we offer others the same mercy we hope to receive? Do we believe in God’s power to give us a fresh start?

May our hearts grow in both courage and compassion, reflecting the God who sees us fully and loves us completely.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 23, 2026

Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent

Hope in the Cross

In the desert (Numbers 21:4-9), the Israelites grew tired and complained, yet when they turned back to God, He offered healing through the bronze serpent. In the same way, Christ lifted on the Cross becomes our source of mercy, renewal, and hope.

The Psalm (Psalm 102:2-3, 16-18, 19-21) reminds us: “O Lord, hear my prayer.” God listens to the cry of every heart, every family, every parish seeking His help.

Jesus tells us in the Gospel (John 8:21-30): “When you lift up the Son of Man, you will realize that I AM.” Looking to Christ leads us from discouragement to faith, from fear to trust.

May this week be a time to lift our eyes to the Cross and let God renew our parish community. My brother and my sister  take one moment each day this week to pause, look to the Cross, and pray for the renewal of our parish.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 24, 2026

Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

With Mary, God is with us

Today’s readings remind us of God’s unwavering presence and our call to trust in His plan.

Isaiah (Isaiah 7:10-14; 8:10) announces the sign of Emmanuel—God with us—a promise fulfilled in Mary’s humble “yes.” Through her openness, Christ enters the world as the One who comes “to do the Father’s will.”

The Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 10:4-10) shows us that Jesus’ obedience, not sacrifice, brings true redemption.

 Like Mary (Luke 1:26-38), we are invited to respond with faith, even when God’s call feels unexpected or challenging.

May our daily prayer echo the psalmist: “Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.”

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 25, 2026

Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent

People of the Covenant: Called to Trust, Remember, and Follow

Today’s readings remind us of God’s unshakeable faithfulness.

In Genesis (Genesis 17:3-9), God renews His covenant with Abraham, giving him a new name and a new mission. This same faithful God continues to walk with us, inviting us into a living relationship grounded in trust.

The psalm (Psalm 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9) repeats the message our hearts often need to hear: “The Lord remembers his covenant forever.” Even when we struggle or forget, God remains steady and true.

In the Gospel (John 8:51-59), Jesus reveals His divine identity: “Before Abraham came to be, I AM.” He is not only the fulfillment of God’s promises but the very presence of God among us. As we move toward Holy Week, we are invited to renew our faith in the One who offers eternal life.

May we remember God’s faithfulness and keep His word with open and trusting hearts.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 26, 2026

Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent

Trust in the Lord in Times of Trial

 As Lent draws to a close, today’s readings remind us that faith is often tested in moments of trial.

Jeremiah (Jeremiah 20:10-13) faces betrayal and threats, yet he proclaims with confidence, “The Lord is with me, like a mighty champion.”

The responsorial psalm (Psalm 18:2-3a, 3bc-4, 5-6, 7) echoes this trust, assuring us that God hears our cries and remains our refuge in every hardship.

In the Gospel (John 10:31-42), Jesus confronts hostility with calm truth. Accused of blasphemy, He points to His works as signs of the Father’s presence within Him. Even amid rejection, Jesus continues His mission of revealing God’s love.

Together, these readings encourage us to trust in God when we feel misunderstood, criticized, or afraid. As we enter the final days of Lent, may we seek the courage to remain faithful and respond to difficulties with the peace and strength that come from Christ.

As we move toward the Passion of the Lord, we are invited to ask: Where am I experiencing fear, criticism, or misunderstanding? How is God calling me to trust Him more deeply? How can I witness to Christ’s love even in difficult moments?

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 27, 2026

Saturday of the Fifth Week of Lent

Gathered into One

God’s promise throughout today’s readings is clear: He desires to gather His people, heal what is divided, and dwell among them. Through the prophet Ezekiel, the Lord promises one shepherd, one people, and a lasting covenant of peace.

The responsorial psalm echoes this tender image of God as shepherd. Even after scattering caused by sin and suffering, the Lord does not abandon His flock. Instead, He guards, redeems, consoles, and transforms mourning into joy. This reminds us that restoration is not only communal but personal—God gathers each wounded heart with care.

In the Gospel, this promise is fulfilled in Jesus, who gives His life to gather the scattered children of God into one family.

As a parish community, these readings challenge us to ask: Are we allowing Christ to gather us more deeply as one body? Are there divisions, resentments, or fears that keep us apart? Christ’s sacrifice is not only for the world at large—it is for our families, our parish, and our own hearts.

As we continue toward Holy Week, we are reminded that God’s plan for unity passes through the Cross. But it does not end there. The promise remains: “My dwelling shall be with them; I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” In Christ, God is already gathering us—if we are willing to follow our Shepherd.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 28, 2026

Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion

Hope Reborn in the Hands of a Loving God

Dear brothers and sisters,

As we begin Holy Week, we walk with Christ into the mystery of his Passion.

Isaiah (Isaiah 50:4-7) shows us the servant who does not turn back from suffering.

The Psalm (Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24) gives voice to a cry that echoes from the cross: “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”

Jesus freely embraces humility and obedience (Philippians 2:6-11), even to death, trusting completely in the Father.

In the Passion (Matthew 26:14—27:66), we see both human weakness and divine love revealed.

May this week draw us closer to Christ, who sets his face like flint and leads us through the cross to resurrection.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 29, 2026

Monday of Holy Week

Discipleship Through Quiet Service and Love

Today’s readings call us to quiet faithfulness, trust, and generous love.

Isaiah (Isaiah 42:1-7) shows us a servant who brings justice gently, healing what is fragile and becoming a light for the nations.

The psalm (Psalm 27:1, 2, 3, 13-14) reminds us that the Lord is our light and salvation, even in times of fear.

In the Gospel (John 12:1-11), Mary of Bethany pours out costly perfume at Jesus’ feet, offering an act of love that is misunderstood but deeply faithful.

Together, these readings invite us to serve with compassion, trust God with courage, and give of ourselves freely in love.

As a parish community, we are called to be a light for one another and for the world: protecting what is fragile, standing firm in hope, and offering Christ our wholehearted devotion. May we recognize the moments when love must be poured out freely, and may our lives, like Mary’s offering, become a fragrance that fills the house of God.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 30, 2026

Tuesday of Holy Week

Called to Be Light

Today’s readings remind us that God calls each of us with purpose, even when we feel weak or unworthy.

Isaiah (Isaiah 49:1-6) tells us that God’s plan reaches beyond our failures, making us a light to others.

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 71:1-2, 3-4a, 5ab-6ab, 15 and 17), echoes this trust. The psalmist proclaims confidence in God from youth to old age, declaring, “On you I depend from birth; from my mother’s womb you are my strength”. Even amid danger and uncertainty, the response remains constant: “I will sing of your salvation.” This refrain becomes a model for our own prayer, choosing praise and hope even when circumstances tempt us toward fear or discouragement.

In the Gospel (John 13:21-33, 36-38), we see betrayal and denial, yet Jesus continues to walk the path of love and glory.

As a parish, we trust that God’s mercy is greater than our mistakes and invites us to follow Christ with hope.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, March 31, 2026

Wednesday of Holy Week

Faithful Love in the Face of Betrayal

Today’s readings remind us that following God faithfully is not always easy.

Isaiah (Isaiah 50:4-9a) shows the servant who listens to God and endures suffering with trust.

The Psalm (Psalm 69:8-10, 21-22, 31 and 33-34) gives voice to pain yet holds fast to hope in God’s love.

In the Gospel (Matthew 26:14-25), Jesus faces betrayal with calm obedience and self-giving love.

These readings invite us to examine our own faithfulness and to remain close to Christ, especially in moments of trial. Lord Jesus, give us hearts that listen, trust, and remain faithful even in suffering. Strengthen us to follow you with courage and love.

Father Sebastien SASA, PhD, MPA

Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church

West Valley City, April 1^st, 2026