The Twelfth Man - Weekday Homily Video

I come from India where the most famous sport is cricket. In the game of cricket, a team consists of eleven players on the field, and a twelfth man. The "12th man" is a substitute player who primarily serves as a reserve player, always on the bench, never in the spotlight, yet faithfully attending every practice, studying every play, and cheering on their teammates. While not part of the playing eleven, this player is crucial for stepping in when a teammate is injured or needs a break. The 12th man often delivers drinks, equipment, and messages to players on the field, ensuring the team's smooth operation during a match. Their role, though behind the scenes, is vital for team morale and readiness. 

As we celebrate Saint Matthias, the apostle chosen to complete the Twelve apostles, we are invited to reflect not just on his story, but on the sacred mystery of divine elections. And what better example of a modern-day “apostolic election” than the selection of a new pope?

Filling the Void

In the Acts of the Apostles, the disciples, after Judas’ betrayal and death, must restore the symbolic number, echoing Israel’s twelve tribes, a number of divine wholeness. They set criteria: the candidate must have witnessed Jesus’ ministry from the beginning.  

Similarly, like in a cricket team, Matthias was not among the original twelve apostles, yet like the 12th man, he had been with Jesus from His baptism by John until His ascension. He had witnessed Jesus' teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Yet, he remained in the background, unnoticed by many. His consistent presence, though not highlighted, made him a prime candidate along with Joseph Barsabbas to fill the void left by Judas. They pray, cast lots, and Matthias is chosen. 

Imagine Matthias's emotions: the humility of being chosen, the weight of responsibility, and perhaps even the imposter syndrome of stepping into a role once held by someone who betrayed their Lord. Yet, he accepted the call, not for glory, but out of steadfast faith. 

Divine Elections

Now, fast-forward to a papal conclave. The College of Cardinals gathers in the Sistine Chapel to elect a successor to Peter. Like the apostles, they seek someone rooted in the Church’s story, a “witness” to Christ’s mission. Cardinals don’t cast lots, but they do invoke the Holy Spirit through prayer and debate and cast ballots until white smoke rises. Both processes—apostolic and papal—are about discernment, not campaigns. They’re not about popularity but sacred surrenders to the Spirit’s unsettling wisdom. 

Just as Matthias was a “nobody” before his election, many popes have come from obscurity. Take Pope Francis, a Jesuit from Argentina who rode the bus to work as a cardinal, or Pope Leo XIV, our new pope, who worked in poverty in Peru. Think of the Old Testament’s Samuel anointing David, the youngest son, while his impressive brothers were passed over. God’s choices often baffle us. Divine elections favor the unlikely, the quiet, the ones who have been faithfully “witnessing” in the background. 

There is a profound lesson here. Both Matthias and a new pope are called to step into a role they didn’t seek, to lead a community reeling from loss: Judas’ betrayal or a pope’s death. Their authority isn’t in their charisma but in their witness.  

Matthias Moments

Their resume? They followed Jesus silently, stayed faithful, didn’t quit.  So, how does this apply to us? In families, workplaces, and parishes, we’re often fixated on the “frontline” roles—the ones with microphones, titles, or authority. But what about the “Matthias moments” in our lives? Maybe it’s the parent who steps up when a spouse is ill, the coworker who quietly mentors a new hire, or the parish volunteer who fixes the leaky church roof. These are our “twelfth men and women”—the ones who fill gaps without applause. 

So, as we honor Saint Matthias, let’s ask: Where is God calling us to be a “twelfth man” in His plan? Maybe it’s leading a project no one wants, forgiving a wound no one sees, or simply showing up when you’re tired. And if you ever feel overlooked, remember: The same God who chose a hidden apostle and an unassuming pope is still at work—in conclaves, in families, and in all of us. 

• Today’s Readings

• Father Boby's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and the Rosary at the 30-minute mark) on the Family Rosary YouTube page. 

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