Padre Rayappa (Roy) Kurakula
Rev. Rayappa Kurakula
Queridas Hermanas y Hermanos de la Familia de San Mateo y del Sagrado Corazón,
Greetings on the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica.
This Sunday we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran
Basilica, the cathedral of the Pope and the “Mother and Head of all the
Churches in the world.” Though it stands in Rome, this feast reaches every
parish and heart, reminding us that we are united as one Church, one faith,
one family in Christ. The Scriptures today flow with rich meaning. The
prophet Ezekiel sees a river of life streaming from the temple healing,
renewing, and bringing life wherever it goes. This river is a symbol of God’s
unending grace that now flows from Christ, the true Temple, into each of us.
Through Baptism, we become living temples of the Holy Spirit, carrying
God’s presence into the world.
In the Gospel, Jesus cleanses the temple, teaching us that holiness begins
within. Our hearts too must be purified of the noise, pride, and distractions
that crowd out God’s voice. The Lord wishes to dwell freely within us,
making our lives reflections of His holiness and love.
As we look around our parish church the altar, the tabernacle, the cross
we are reminded that these sacred spaces point us to a greater truth: we are
the living Church, built on Christ the cornerstone. May this feast renew our
love for God’s house and our commitment to be living stones of faith, prayer,
and service. “We are not just visitors in God’s house; we are His living
temples flowing with the waters of His mercy and grace.”
Me quedo,
Suyo en Cristo,
P. Roy
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our St. Matthew and Sacred Heart Families
Dear Friends in Christ,
My heartfelt thankfulness to everyone who responded with
such love, generosity, and faith to support the Halloween Block Party
at Sacred Heart Church in Point Pleasant. What a joy it was to witness
our parish communities coming together as one family in Christ
serving with cheerful hearts and radiant smiles.
A special word of thanks to Tammy, Julie, Christina, and all
who offered their time, energy, and prayers to make this event a
success. To those who could not be present but lifted us up in prayer,
please know your spiritual support was deeply felt and sincerely
appreciated.
From the Sacred Heart community, my warmest thanks to
Marqkita, Debbie, and all who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Your dedication, coordination, and joyful service truly reflected the
heart of Christ’s mission to bring people together in love and light.
This beautiful collaboration between St. Matthew and Sacred
Heart reminds us that faith grows stronger when shared, and that even
small acts of service can shine brightly in our world.
May God continue to bless each of you those who served,
prayed, and supported with His abundant grace and peace.
With gratitude and blessings,
P. Roy
