FAITH BOOK

16th SUNDAY (A) July19, 2026

Wisdom 12: 13, 16-19; Psalm 86; Rom 8: 26-27; Matthew 13: 24-30

By: Jude Siciliano , OP

From today’s letter to the Romans:

The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness;

for we do not know how to pray as we ought,

but the Spirit himself intercedes with inexpressible groanings.

Reflection:

This passage is a great comfort for anyone who has ever struggled to pray. Paul reminds us that prayer is not primarily our work; it is God's work within us. There are times when we cannot find the right words, when our hearts are burdened by grief, confusion, fear, or uncertainty. In those moments, the Holy Spirit does not abandon us. The Spirit prays within us, carrying to God even the deepest longings we cannot express. We are never alone in prayer. Even our silence can become a prayer when we trust the Spirit dwelling within us.T

So, we ask ourselves:

When have I found it difficult to pray or find the right words for God?

How might I trust the Holy Spirit more during times of weakness or uncertainty?

What burdens or concerns do I need to place in God's hands today?

Click here for a link to this Sunday’s readings:

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071926.cfm