I began writing my weekly reflections in 2010 as a way to pray (and fulfill a requirement for the spiritual formation program). It is the reason why this blog began and continues to exist. What began to be a requirement became a life-giving blessing for me! To be honest, those reflections personally helped me to see God’s presence in my life, even in the midst of many stormy seasons. I write because I hope my struggles and His grace at work can encourage others in their own spiritual journey, to know that He is with them and they are not alone… and He does speak to us in many different ways!
The thought of sharing my writings in a book format had been in my heart for a very long time, and many of my parishioners encouraged me to do so; however, I kept hesitating for multiple (personal) reasons. Many of those reservations were out of fear that I might garner too much unneeded attention. Nonetheless, I could not seem to shake off this thought for many years, and people kept encouraging me along the way. So, I took a leap of faith and went out of my comfort zone on the Memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe in 2025, trying to imitate his courage and asking the Blessed Mother on the eve of our commemoration of her Assumption for her intercession.
(For more information on a book, please use the dropdown menu at the top to view its details)
The first is geared toward how to be present and provide pastoral counseling in a pluralistic environment (putting the theological virtue of charity into action). The second is a series of reflections on my vocational and healing journey (growing and maturing through hope). The third is on prayer and discernment (to seek God and deepen the virtue of faith). The fourth is to encourage my brother priests to become more mission oriented, capable, and ready for the Kingdom. The fifth addresses the twofold necessity to find rest and recuperation as well as to seek recovery and restoration for our faith journey. Personally speaking, the one on overcoming perfection was a blessing for me because I was able to put into words many of my childhood memories and calling, and how the good Lord was at work throughout my life’s trials, hardships, and failures.
I meant for them to be free, but Amazon does charge for their Kindle eBook and paperback formats, so I try to keep the prices very nominal (to cover the fees). However, the PDF files will always remain free for download. Additionally, any earnings will be accounted for and shared with the poor (because God has blessed me more than what I will ever need in this life). These were composed to be easily shared, available, and hopefully help people along the Way, not to make money or gain attention for myself.
Please note that I am not a professional writer, knowledgeable theologian, or skilled spiritual master, so you will find numerous writing mistakes and grammatical errors. I would like to apologize ahead of time because I did not use AI, hire a professional to proofread, or worry about making everything look perfect. I read and watched a few tutorials and did my best to figure things out with my limited computer and design skills. I struggled through the process, but keeping things imperfect is a great reminder for me as a recovering perfectionist and of my humanity!
A parishioner shared a heart-warming and precious picture of her husband reading Overcoming Perfection to their youngest child for Lent before her bedtime.
Please leave a review, drop me an email, or message me via a social media platform if you find them helpful. I would love to hear your thoughts! If you find them less than desirable, please forgive and continue to pray for me. I am truly humbled, honored, and grateful that my writings can help others in some small ways on their spiritual journeys. Thank you.
— Why I am a Military Chaplain
— I Thirst (John 19:28) Spiritual Reflections
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viet nam | united states of america | kansas | texas | congregation of the most holy redeemer | diocese of fort worth | archdiocese for the military services | united states air and space forces | english – español – tiếng việt | may 22 – june 29 | holy trinity seminary | st. mary’s seminary | ba – gcsf – ma – mdiv – stb | university of dallas – creighton university – university of st. thomas – st. mary’s seminary and university
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