New Online Giving Portal

Click HERE for the link to the new online giving portal OR click on the Servant Keeper icon in the Applications segment in the footer section of the page.

*We now accept Apple Pay*

Reflection on Matthew 13:1–23

The Parable of the Sower

The heart of this Gospel is simple and searching:  God is always sowing His Word, but the fruit depends on the soil of our hearts. Jesus isn’t just describing four types of people—He is inviting each of us to examine the places in our own heart where the seed thrives, and where it struggles.

1. God is a generous sower.
Jesus begins with an almost extravagant image: a sower who scatters seed everywhere—on the path, on rocky ground, among thorns, and on good soil. This is not careless farming. It is God’s generosity. He does not wait for perfect conditions. He does not sow only where success seems likely. He offers His Word to every heart, every day, in every circumstance. This means: No part of your life is too messy, too hardened, or too tangled for God to try again.

2. The hardened path — when the heart is closed.
Some seed falls on the path and is quickly taken away. This is the part of us that has grown hard—through disappointment, sin, fear, or simply routine. The Word cannot penetrate because we do not let it. The invitation: Ask Christ to soften what has become rigid—old wounds, old habits, old defenses. Grace begins where the heart
cracks open.

3. The rocky ground — when faith is shallow.
Here the seed springs up quickly but has no root. This is the part of us that responds to God with enthusiasm but not endurance. We love the idea of holiness, but when discipleship costs something, we wither. The invitation: Let the Word sink deeper through prayer, silence, and perseverance. Roots grow slowly, but they grow strong.

4. The thorns — when the heart is crowded.
The thorns represent “the cares of the world and the lure of riches.” Not evil things—just distracting things. Good soil becomes unfruitful when too many other loves compete for first place. The invitation: Simplify. Choose what matters. Let Christ
reorder your priorities so your heart can breathe again.

5. The good soil — when the heart is receptive.
Good soil is not perfect soil. It is soil that is willing—willing to listen, willing to be changed, willing to let God work slowly and deeply. The promise: When the heart is open, the Word bears fruit far beyond what we imagine—thirty, sixty, a hundredfold. God does not measure by our standards. He multiplies what we surrender.

6. The deeper message: God wants fruit, not just hearing.
Jesus ends with a challenge: “Whoever has ears ought to hear.” Hearing is not enough. The Word must be received, cherished, and lived. The true disciple is not the one who listens well, but the one who lets the Word transform their life.

We are in need of Lectors, Altar Servers and Eucharistic Ministers, especially for the 4pm and 8am Masses. If you can help or have questions, please contact Father Tony or the parish office for more details.

Building Our Family Together

A church is not just a building; it is a family of believers, and every new face brings a unique blessing to our parish. As St. James continues to grow, we want every newcomer to feel valued and equipped to share their gifts. Whether you are looking for small groups, volunteer opportunities, or just a quiet place to pray, you belong here. To help us get to know you better, please take a moment to fill out a new parishioner form online at www.stjames-potosi.org or call the parish office at 573-438-4686.

Magnifica Humanitas

Pope Leo XIV issued his first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas on May 25, 2026. Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing the 10 most powerful quotes from this encyclical courtesy of Ascension Press.

"5. Let us not be afraid to get our hands dirty on the “construction site” of our time (Magnifica Humanitas, 16).

The Church does not call us to passivity or withdrawal. In the spirit of the Gospel, the world (especially in this age shaped by artificial intelligence and rapid change) is not something to simply watch from a distance, but something to help shape with wisdom and love. As Christians, we are called to participate in the real life of society--culture, technology, politics, education--bringing the light of Christ into it. Rather than retreating into isolation, we are invited to be present in the world as faithful witnesses, working for what is true and good."

**direct quote from the following article: https://ascensionpress.com/blogs/articles/10-mostpowerful-quotes-from-pope-leo-xiv-s-first-encyclicalmagnificahumanitas?srsltid=AfmBOoow5KlXT1kz8-Sj2mHTgFx8QImAk1_TW_-2quCsNefOt63GC4C

https://www.vatican.va/content/leoxiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnificahumanitas.html

St. James PSR NEWS

Enjoy your summer! Don't forget to attend Mass!

-Dr. Melissa Cordia

Ladies Sodality

Our next meeting is Aug. 4. The hall pantry & cleaning day is rescheduled for Aug. 10. We would like to organize a garden committee to plant flowers in the containers around the church grounds. All parishioners are invited to come bless our church with your gardening skills.

-Bobbie Heifner, President

Society of St. Vincent de Paul

We were able to serve 163 families (406 total individuals) with 112 of them who were 65 & older this month through the generosity of our parishioners & other generous donors. We thank all those who donate their time, talent & treasure to help our community. We especially thank those who help us pack and distribute on our pantry distribution day. 

"Lord, help me to make time today to serve you in those who are most in need of encouragement or assistance."
~St. Vincent de Paul

St. Vincent de Paul collection:
Canned meat, canned chili w/meat, boxed cereal, powdered milk, breakfast items

July 12, 2026
Keeping Neighbors Cool This Summer
Summer can be dangerous for seniors, people with disabilities, and families without reliable air conditioning. Extreme heat is more than uncomfortable—it can be life-threatening.

Each year, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul helps vulnerable neighbors stay safe through utility assistance, fans, air conditioners, and other emergency support.

As temperatures rise, please remember those who may be suffering in silence. A simple act of kindness, a phone call, or a donation can help protect someone from the dangers of extreme heat. Together, we can be the hands and feet of Christ for our neighbors.