August: A Month of Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

               This Week's Letter From Father

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time A                           

August 9, 2026

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Today’s Gospel reading (Matthew 14:23-33) features the well-known story of Jesus walking on water. The apostles are terrified as their boat is battered by strong headwinds on the lake.

We all encounter storms in life- those moments when it feels like we're making no progress in our careers, our spiritual lives, our marriage, or any situation that leaves us crying out to God, “Why is this happening to me? Do you care, God?” We experience suffering, both physically and mentally; we mourn the loss of loved ones; we grieve for cherished pets; and we struggle at work, dealing with difficult or incompetent colleagues. These are just a few examples among many of the winds which assail us.

We all encounter our own storms along the way. Our faith doesn't protect us from difficulties, but it does invite us to see beyond them. In those tough moments, we can feel the loving presence of God, who supports and guides us through it all. These storms, though daunting, often lead us to brighter days and deeper insights into God’s care for us. Even when darkness obscures our path, we are never alone- His love is always there, quietly reassuring us as we navigate to calmer shores.

Peter’s example in our Gospel reading shows us how subtle the difference can be between deep faith and uncertainty. True faith flourishes when we follow Christ, while fear, uncertainty and doubt may lead us to seek fulfillment elsewhere. We may replace God with things like money, career, fame, hobbies and more.

Peter approaches Jesus, but the wind fills him with fear, almost as if he were seeing divine power in it rather than recognizing Jesus as God. However, it is Jesus who reveals himself as God “It is I.”

In the Old Testament God is depicted as calming the chaotic stormy waters and revealing himself as “I AM” (Psalm 107:23-32), the one who saves (Exodus 3:14).

Peter asks, “Lord, if it is you, tell me to come to you on the water.” Instead of asking Jesus to calm the winds and waves, he chooses to face challenges head-on (directly) and navigate life’s turbulent moments with Jesus’ help. He cries out, “Lord, save me.”

We are invited to do the same. Jesus encourages us: “ Take control of yourselves … Don't be afraid.”

Let’s support each other in doing just that.

                                                          …..

Cathy and John, I truly appreciate your warm invitation. The seafood dinner was delightful, and your company made it even more enjoyable. Thank you!

I am grateful to Alison Vick for bringing me another delicious dinner. Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated. Thank you once again for your kindness.

A heartfelt thank you to the Knights of Columbus for an amazing yard sale. The funds raised will support our Diocesan seminarians, the Faith Formation Program, and St. Egbert School- truly making a difference in our community.

Sunday School Registration paperwork is due this weekend for the 2026/2027 school year. Forms are still available in the Vestibule.

Today we observe the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. There are 475 million indigenous people worldwide. Let’s come together to honor their vibrant native cultures, recognize their invaluable historical contributions, and champion their rights, native languages, and unique identities.

With prayers,



Fr. Ryszard

Welcome Message

Greetings in Christ Jesus!

Whether you are just visiting for a short while, have moved here and are joining our parish, or are returning to your Catholic Faith, on behalf of our parish community, we welcome you to St. Egbert Catholic Church and the beautiful Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

When Jesus was asked which of all the commandments was the greatest, he replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.  This is the great, and first commandment. And a second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” These two Commandments form the foundation of our mission to Love God, Love Neighbor, and to Share the Good News.