Homilies of Fr. Ken Fortney

I Am the Resurrection: A Foretaste of New Life

Today's readings and Gospel offer a foretaste of the greatest gift: the new life God gives through the resurrection. Jesus intentionally waited four days so those present could come to deeper understanding, and his words, "I am the resurrection and the life," draw faith from his followers.Martha and Mary show two responses of discipleship—service and prayer—while Martha boldly confesses Jesus as the Son of God. The women are the first to recognize the risen Lord, pointing us toward the coming Holy Week.As we approach the celebration of the Eucharist and Holy Week, we remember that Christ is alive and offers himself to us fully. Today we also welcome Maxwell Brooks through baptism into our community of faith, entrusting him to God's grace and our support.

Never Forgotten: God's Promise of Unfailing Love

In this episode we reflect on God’s promise from Isaiah that He will never forget us, His intimate knowledge of our lives from conception, and the gift of free will that calls for a response. The sermon explores the meaning of Jesus’ words “amen, amen,” the surprising idea of two resurrections—life and condemnation—and the call to live a whole, holy life in both humanity and divinity.We also celebrate the gift of the Eucharist, through which Christ gives Himself to make us whole, inviting us to receive Him and present ourselves to others in the glory of Christ.

From Darkness to Sight: A Lenten Call to Open Our Eyes

Through the readings we reflect on a man born blind and the Pharisees who could not see, reminding us that everyone has spiritual blind spots. Lent invites honest self-examination so we can recognize the sins that keep us from God and seek the healing gift of reconciliation.God’s grace, given especially in the Eucharist, strengthens us to grow toward holiness. With repentance and perseverance we prepare for the day we will be welcomed home to the fullness of life with the Lord.

Refresh Your Soul: The Gift of Living Water This Lent

This episode explores the power of God's word and the gift of living water — from Moses providing water for God's people to a Samaritan woman who finds refreshment in Scripture. It invites listeners to open their hearts and be transformed by the word.
During the Lenten season, the speaker encourages daily prayer, repentance, and small changes so we can grow a little closer to God each day and become better than we were yesterday.

Transfigured: Witnessing Christ's Radiant Glory

In this episode we reflect on the disciples' experience on the mountain when Jesus is transfigured before them: a moment of radiant revelation, fear, and profound transformation.Though told to keep silent until after the resurrection, their encounter reshapes their understanding and prepares them for ministry, reminding us through the Eucharist to see Christ's beauty and be faithful witnesses of His grace in our daily lives.

When Beauty Becomes a Trap: Lessons from Eden and the Desert

This episode reflects on the temptation in Eden and Christ’s forty days in the desert, showing how Scripture and the Eucharist help us resist sin. It highlights the devil’s deceptive beauty and the call to use God’s Word as our defense.As we journey through Lent we are invited to grow holy—and whole—by turning to Scripture, receiving the Eucharist, and sharing God’s love with others.

I've Come for Sinners: A Lenten Call to Honest Repentance

In this episode the speaker reflects on Jesus' words that he came to call sinners, not the righteous, and urges honest self-examination. Lent is presented as a time to recognize our imperfections, confess failings, and commit to change.The talk highlights the gift of the Eucharist and God's help in our ongoing growth—physically, mentally, and spiritually—encouraging listeners to accept guidance and strive toward deeper faith and improvement.

From Ashes to Grace: Living Lent with Purpose

This episode invites listeners to begin Lent with honest reflection, embracing the Eucharist as Gods gift and recognizing Christs ultimate sacrifice. It challenges us to examine our lives, make sacrifices for others, and be visible witnesses of faith through everyday actions.Over these 40 days, the message encourages openness to the Spirit, practical love toward family and neighbors, and a commitment to grow closer to God so that we emerge at Easter transformed and ready to serve.

Love First: Living the Commandments Every Day

This episode explores how the Ten Commandments and Jesus’ command to love shape our daily lives. The speaker encourages making God the priority, living faith every moment, and trusting God’s guidance to fulfill our unique calling.Through personal stories and reflections, we’re reminded to be faithful in word and deed, to bring Christ’s presence to others, and to begin each day asking the Lord for strength and wisdom.

What Comes Out: When Words Hurt More Than Food

This episode reflects on a Gospel that challenges ritual purity, emphasizing that what we say and how we treat others matters more than what we eat.It explores how the Eucharist and the presence of Christ shape our words and actions, and shares personal reflections on pilgrimage, expectations, and the quiet ways God provides grace.