With the advent of modern social media, some friends and parishioners have from time to time suggested that I record and upload my homilies onto my blog. I have been hesitant to do so because it seemed egotistical for me to think that people would want to listen to them, but they reminded me that other priests have done so, that it is part of using the modern technology to reach people, and they told me they thought my homilies were good enough to post. So, taking their advice, I’ve decided that I will occasionally record and post my homily on my blog for anyone who wishes to listen to it. Here is today’s:
Homily for the Fourth Sunday of Easter, Cycle B
Rev. Andrew P. Carrozza 
Hi Father Carrozza,
I came across your homily today. Actually, I’m not even sure how, but I was looking for encouragement about something and found it. I clicked
on it and listened. That’s when I realized, I AM a “lost chicken”.
I’ve been away from church for about 7 years (not even sure why I fell away), but recently I’ve noticed that no matter what I do, even if it’s good things like volunteering and trying new hobbies, something has been missing. I am happy on some level, but not that happy. On Easter this year, I was away from home and something inspired me to go to Mass. It was an unfamiliar church and I knew no one. I sat in the back row observing it all which made me realize what has been missing and made me want to receive communion again.
Now that I’m back home I’ve been really nervous about taking that first step. I haven’t been back to Mass since Easter, but I’m trying to get up the nerve to go again. It’s hard after being away for so long.
Hearing the message in your homily made me realize that I’m a foolish lost chicken. It gave me some things to think about for sure. I just wanted to share that with you. I hope it’s ok. Thanks for posting.
Peace- Rebecca
Well, thank you Rebecca! I’m so glad my homily helped you! As for going back, don’t worry, just do it! You’ll feel so much better, I promise you! Welcome home!
I’ll take that as a yes vote! Thanks!
YES!!
So Father, you can’t see my smile as I am all the way in the Mitten state, You do good.
Thanks!
p.s. I was a lost chicken….running around Massachusetts instead of Hawaii. About 3 years ago I returned to the chicken coop with the help of the ‘farmer’. And I am so thankful. Truly I am discovering each day the joy of being Catholic. This past, January my 19 year old daughter made the decision on her own and received her Confirmation! I am working on my two younger teenage sons. It does take patience and a gentle encouragement so as not to scare my little chickens away. Please help me pray for them. Thanks again for your message!!
I am so pleased to hear that! Thank you for sharing your story with me! You will all be in my prayers.
Thank you for sharing, Father.
God Bless you.
Well thank you Liz! What a wonderful thing to say! You made my day! Perhaps my fear of seeming or feeling conceited has kept me from doing good things for Jesus and for others. You’ve given me great food for prayer. I am grateful to you for that!
It’s not conceit at all. You are helping the “chickens” by giving support, encouragement, and the wisdom you have acquired over your years of being a priest, knowing about God and His people.
I bet your parishioners appreciate your willingness to put yourself out there.
It will be great!!
Hi Father,
Thank you so much for deciding to post your sermons once in a while.
My pastor posts all of his on our parish website, and I will tell you, I listen to them quite often. I always hear something I missed, and even have some that are a go to comfort on a bad day. The Lord is good, and the sermons are a gentle reminder. It’s nice to be able to go back when one can’t focus on what is being preached, or hard to understand what is being preached.
I sound like a geek I know—Anyhow , am looking forward to listening tomorrow. at work.
Always in my prayers Father Carrozza
Liz