Bishop talks Gospel, Garth Brooks at St. Augustine Prep

Bishop Joseph Williams visited Saint Augustine Preparatory School in Richland on Oct. 5, where he celebrated Mass and spoke to students about the necessity of relying on God rather than self-sufficiency.

During his homily in the school gym, the bishop used the Gospel of John to explain that humans cannot save themselves from sin and require the intervention of God's son. He also referenced a reading from the Gospel of Luke regarding a scholar's question to Jesus about inheriting eternal life.

During lunch with students, teachers, and clergy, the bishop used the Garth Brooks song "Unanswered Prayers" to illustrate his message, noting that a lack of response to prayer does not mean God does not care. Senior Billy Jenkins participated by explaining the meaning of John 3:16 and completing the lyrics regarding how unanswered prayers can be gifts from God.