Saturday, April 16, 2022

Sunday of the Resurrection, 2022. Morning Mass - Year C - 17-Apr-22 (EPISODE: 360)

 


Sunday of the Resurrection, 2022. Year C - 17-Apr-22
(EPISODE: 360)

Readings for 17-Apr-22 - Sunday of the Resurrection. Year C
FIRST READING: Acts 10:34, 37-43: We have eaten and drunk with him after his resurrection
Ps 117:1-2, 16-17, 22-23. “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad.”
SECOND READING: 1 Cor 5:6-8: Throw away the old yeast, that you may be new dough. (or alternative - Col 3:1-4: Look for the things that are in heaven, where Christ is.)
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (1 Cor 5:7-8). Alleluia, alleluia! Christ has become our Paschal sacrifice; let us feast with joy in the Lord.
GOSPEL: Jn 20:1-9: The teaching of scripture is that he must rise from the dead.

or Lk 24:1-12: Why look among the dead for someone who is alive?

Shutterstock licensed - Item ID: 664526395. BERLIN, GERMANY, FEBRUARY - 14, 2017: The mosaic of Jesus with the disciples on the road to Emmaus on the facade of church Emmauskirche by workroom Deutschen Glasmosaik - Gesellschaft Puhl & Wagner. Contributor: Renata Sedmakova
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Sunday of the Resurrection, 2013. Year C - 17-Apr-22 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/easter-sunday-morning-mass-2022-master-final

(EPISODE: 360)
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Homily (Fr Paul Kelly)
These wonderful Easter texts , lovingly taken from the Word of God….. ever ancient but also ever new). Remind us of God’s, loving faithfulness and presence with us and our ancestors, throughout humanity’s long history….

If God is with us,  what have we to fear..  who can be against us….(as Saint Paul Puts it so beautifully – and this is coming from a saint and later martyr… who knew the enormous costs and difficulties that are to be face in being faithful to God’s love. God in return and in advance has promised to be faithful  to us always, and has shown this faithfulness throughout human history -- and so wonderfully on this Easter celebtation, God has shown his complete unity with us through Christ’s life, ministry, death and resurrection….  Christ unites himself always to those who suffer .. especially those poorest,  and those most bowed down and mistreated.    Jesus is risen and alive – and lives actively in the hearts and lives of those who are down-trodden and mistreated by the world and its cruelties.    He is with and in those who suffer and he takes this suffering onto himself ….

He defeats the power of destruction and transformed the world

At Easter, Our Lord's resurrection sends out the most wonderful message to the world.   To people who are struggling.., and those who feel hopeless. ….and also those who feel they will never be good enough, or worthy enough… and those who fear they can never be forgiven… For today's feast says… YES>>>>

 
The love and dignity that God intends for each and every one of his beloved sons and daughters,  this dignity,  this love,  this life never ends.  Our value and the worth of every person cannot be destroyed or defeated even by the worst that others wrongdoing or lack of reverence can wreak.  And the harm that people can do in this world is enormous. But, God's last and final right of reply, speaks much louder than that! Our Lord's Resurrection sends a message to all the world, that all who suffer, matter greatly to the Lord, and God will not forget them nor fail (later if not sooner) to give them and restore to them the dignity that the world so often denies them.  Hatred, violence, failure to give people the dignity and care they need…  these things will not prevail over Our God of faithfulness and justice. Jesus has definitively and permanently "thrown in his lot" with us … and promises to bring him through to where he has gone ahead of us. Meanwhile, we are made bold in our determination to stand up for those who suffer and who call out for respect and to do everything possible to give practical help and care to those in need. Christ shows us they are worth every effort. And this effort will ultimately not be in vain, no matter what the obstacles.
 
God is with us, God will never abandon us… God truly is at work renewing us,  restoring us,  vindicating those who have been mistreated ...and giving us new hope .. new life… and indescribable mercy….
 
- Jesus is an unequivocal "yes" — the enormous and seemingly thankless and much-derided cost of self-sacrifice and service, love, compassion, mercy, gentleness, and generosity of spirit… of thinking more of others and less of ourselves… is all worth it.
 
May God bless us and renew us in his astounding love… and ever-abiding faithfulness… and eternal care… and may our lives be more and more marked by these wonderful qualities marked by the life, death, and resurrection of Christ ....  with every new day….. Happy Easter!
+++++
References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly


Shutterstock licensed - Item ID: 664526395. BERLIN, GERMANY, FEBRUARY - 14, 2017: The mosaic of Jesus with the disciples on the road to Emmaus on the facade of church Emmauskirche by workroom Deutschen Glasmosaik - Gesellschaft Puhl & Wagner. Contributor: Renata Sedmakova


Sunday of the Resurrection, Year C  (17-Apr-22)  (EPISODE: 360 )
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
+++++++++++++
{{May Our Lord's grace and love abide in you}}

Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.
Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life: Lord, have mercy// //Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins:Christ, have mercy//Lord Jesus, you feed us with your body and blood:Lord, have mercy//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
+++++++++++++++++++++
Ps 117:1-2, 16-17, 22-23. “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad.”

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (1 Cor 5:7-8).
Alleluia, alleluia! Christ has become our Paschal sacrifice; let us feast with joy in the Lord.

Memorial Acclamation
3. Save us, Saviour of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PREFACE: Preface one of Easter
EP II

++++
{Thanks everyone, and have a grace-filled and compassion-filled week.}

Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.

++++++++
Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here.:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul’s homily mail-out by sending an email to this address:       Subscribe to mailing list to keep up-to-date

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection"  - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants  — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989,  and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms” ©1963, 2009,  The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful -   " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'.   E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).

Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -  By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria,  Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org.

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of  William John Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

“Quiet Time.”  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.


- “Today I Arise” - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick’s Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      RODE-NT-USB-mini

Editing equipment:    NCH software - MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software
NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 12.44

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

[Production -  KER -  2022]
May God bless and keep you.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
[ Production -  KER -  2022]

May God bless and keep you.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++



 

HOLY SATURDAY NIGHT EASTER VIGIL 2022

 



Readings for HOLY SATURDAY NIGHT  EASTER VIGIL

Holy fire

Blessing and Lighting of the Paschal Candle

Procession with Candle into the Church – The Light of Christ/ Thanks be to God!

Easter Proclamation: (The Exsultet)

Old Testament Readings and Psalms (Selections from below):

•       Exodus 14:10-31; 15:20-21 and Response - Exodus 15:1b-13, 17-18

•       Isaiah 55:1-11 and Isaiah 12:2-6

•       New Testament Reading and Psalm

•       Romans 6:3-11 and Psalm 114

Gospel   -  Luke


Shutterstock licensed -  Item ID: 1406431679- Science and religion. Christian religion. Illustration with cross of jesus christ and resurrection concept.Tunnel towards death. Contributor: carlos castilla

 

Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and

 homily), for Holy Saturday night – vigil by clicking this link here:

 https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/fhl-holy-saturday-night-vigil-easter-vigil-2022

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References:
These wonderful Easter texts , lovingly taken from the Word of God….. ever ancient but also ever new). Remind us of God’s, loving faithfulness and presence with us and our ancestors, throughout humanity’s long history….

If God is with us,  what have we to fear..  who can be against us….(as Saint Paul Puts it so beautifully – and this is coming from a saint and later martyr… who knew the enormous costs and difficulties that are to be face in being faithful to God’s love. God in return and in advance has promised to be faithful  to us always, and has shown this faithfulness throughout human history -- and so wonderfully on this Easter celebration, God has shown his complete unity with us through Christ’s life, ministry, death, and resurrection….  Christ unites himself always to those who suffer .. especially those poorest,  and those most bowed down and mistreated.    Jesus is risen and alive – and lives actively in the hearts and lives of those who are down-trodden and mistreated by the world and its cruelties.    He is with and in those who suffer and he takes this suffering onto himself ….

He defeats the power of destruction and transformed the world

At Easter, Our Lord's resurrection sends out the most wonderful message to the world.   To people who are struggling..., and those who feel hopeless. ….and also those who feel they will never be good enough, or worthy enough… and those who fear they can never be forgiven… For today's feast says… YES>>>>

 
The love and dignity that God intends for each and every one of his beloved sons and daughters,  this dignity,  this love,  this life never ends.  Our value and the worth of every person cannot be destroyed or defeated even by the worst that others wrongdoing or lack of reverence can wreak.  And the harm that people can do in this world is enormous. But, God's last and final right of reply, speaks much louder than that! Our Lord's Resurrection sends a message to all the world, that all who suffer, matter greatly to the Lord, and God will not forget them nor fail (later if not sooner) to give them and restore to them the dignity that the world so often denies them.  Hatred, violence, failure to give people the dignity and care they need…  these things will not prevail over Our God of faithfulness and justice. Jesus has definitively and permanently "thrown in his lot" with us … and promises to bring him through to where he has gone ahead of us. Meanwhile, we are made bold in our determination to stand up for those who suffer and who call out for respect and to do everything possible to give practical help and care to those in need. Christ shows us they are worth every effort. And this effort will ultimately not be in vain, no matter what the obstacles.
 
God is with us, God will never abandon us… God truly is at work renewing us,  restoring us,  vindicating those who have been mistreated ...and giving us new hope .. new life… and indescribable mercy….
 
- Jesus is an unequivocal "yes" — the enormous and seemingly thankless and much-derided cost of self-sacrifice and service, love, compassion, mercy, gentleness, and generosity of spirit… of thinking more of others and less of ourselves… is all worth it.
 
May God bless us and renew us in his astounding love… and ever-abiding faithfulness… and eternal care… and may our lives be more and more marked by these wonderful qualities marked by the life, death, and resurrection of Christ ....  with every new day….. Happy Easter!
++++

REFERENCES:

Fr Paul W. Kelly

Image Credit: Shutterstock licensed -  Item ID: 1406431679- Science and religion. Christian religion. Illustration with cross of jesus christ and resurrection concept.Tunnel towards death. Contributor: carlos castilla

Holy Saturday night – vigil- 

++++++++++++++++
PREFACE: Easter I

EP II
(theme variation: 3 )

++++

++++++++
Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to our weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection"  - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants  — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989,  and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009,  The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful -   " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'.   E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).

 "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -published 2011, Composed and Sung by Jeffrey M. Ostrowski

Featuring the….Gloria, plus also the Alleluia, Exsultet: http://www.ccwatershed.org/chabanel/ ]]] ] COPYRIGHT @ 2018 CORPUS CHRISTI WATERSHED. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. www.ccwatershed.org/vatican/Ralph_Sherwin_Videos/


- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of  William John Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

"Quiet Time."  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.


- "Today I Arise" - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

[ Production -  KER -  2022]

May God bless and keep you.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Friday, April 15, 2022

Good Friday of the Passion of the Lord2022. (For you at Home).

Good Friday of the Passion of the Lord
2022. (For you at Home).
LITURGY OF THE WORD
First Reading: Isaiah 52:13 - 53:12
Psalm: Ps 30:2. 6. 12-13. 15-17. 25. "Father, I put my life in your hands"
Second Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Gospel Acclamation: Philippians 2:8-9
Passion: John 18:1 - 19:42
Homily
Solemn Intercessions
Spiritual Veneration of the Cross
Communion
Departure in Silence

+++++++++

Shutterstock Licensed Item ID: 1049715632 - Biblical vector illustration series. Way of the Cross or Stations of the Cross, twelfth station, Jesus Dies On The Cross. Contributor: rudall30

Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers, and reflections for Good Friday Passion - by
clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/good-friday-3pm-passion-of-our-lord-2022/s-WvAN5zwsLsR
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THE LORD'S PASSION - Good Friday Message.

With the eyes of faith… The terrible suffering and death of our Lord on the Cross… actually reveals the wisdom and power of God… it also – amazingly- shows us the fullness of God's love and commitment to his children….

We see the cross of Christ as his victory over lies and injustice… and when we look at Christ Crucified we can see i the most perfect King… putting his people first and himself last, to save them….. Today is actually about God's unswerving love for all humanity…. That he would even give us the last drop of his energy.. even the last drop of his blood to save us….. the pain and suffering make no sense without the love that he bore to be with everyone and anyone who has suffered, been wrongly treated and all who have sinned and feel utterly lost…. He has jumped right into the messiness and inhustices of life and has joined us right in the middle of the storm…. and carries us with him in his victory…. And safety… and to our true home.. safe within God's family…

Today is a day when we are asked to turn an idea upside down.
To firmly take words such as "king" and "power," "strength" and "victory" and turn the meaning of these words inside-out.
–(as Australian Priest and Poet Bruce Prewer writes):
Christ is our King, the monarch of all things. He is that humble, compassionate person who"- never went to university
- never wrote a book,
- never held any public office,
- had few if any friends in high places on earth,
- in his adult life, never travelled far from his tiny home country,
- never met anyone much more important than a provincial governor or some foreign wise men.
His only crown was a terrible wreath of thorns.
His only throne two crossed planks of wood – forming a cross.
(no earthly court for this king. Rather, at his right hand, and at his left, two dying thieves)."**

To you, Christ our King:
We bring our lust for power and set it down before your rejection of power.
We bring our love of money and place it before your willing poverty.
We bring our stubborn pride and set it before your utter humility.
We bring our pay- back mentality and lay it before your mercifulness.
We bring our desire for self- glory and put before your passion for the Father's glory, not yours.
We bring our inveterate self- interest and rest it before your self-giving.
We bring all our vain wisdom and lay it before the "folly" of your cross."**

The cross of Jesus is to be found reflected in all who mourn…. all who suffer rejection and injustice…. the cross is patterned in the hearts of all who endure illness or pain…. // the cross is also a powerful but silent "YES" to all who long to be forgiven for past mistakes but don't dare believe that they can be freed from their guilt and shame………// It is found in the experiences of people persecuted or experiencing fear or unrest throughout the world… whether it be in some faraway country wracked with dictatorship, or in the house next door to us….. or perhaps even in our own homes?
- Come let us adore him We bless you and worship you, Lord, for, by your holy cross, you have saved the world.
- +++++
References:
Fr Paul Kelly

**"Brief Prayers for Busy People." Author: Bruce D Prewer - ISBN 978-1-62880-090-6
http://www.bruceprewer.com/DocC/C64king.htm
Shutterstock Licensed Item ID: 1049715632 - Biblical vector illustration series. Way of the Cross or Stations of the Cross, twelfth station, Jesus Dies On The Cross. Contributor: rudall30

+++
Archive of homilies and reflections:
http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:
paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address:
paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com


Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly
Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)
Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)
"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers.
May God bless and keep you.


KER 2022


Thursday, April 14, 2022

THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 2022- GOOD FRIDAY MORNING (FOR YOU AT HOME)(Traditional with Scriptural connections).

THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 2022 - GOOD FRIDAY MORNING (FOR YOU AT HOME)
(Traditional with Scriptural connections).


(Image Shutterstock licensed Photo ID 1028159221. Biblical vector illustration series. Way of the Cross or Stations of the Cross, third station, Jesus falls for the first time. Contributor: - rudall30) .

Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the Good Friday Stations of the Cross- by clicking this link here :

https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-good-friday-morning-stations-of-the-cross-2022


THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS - Good Friday

LEADER: (GOES TO THE LECTERN AND BEGINS)

LEADER:
Let us pray
(that the Lord will teach us his ways, through this prayer journey to Calvary).
Lord Jesus, as we begin this journey of the Stations of the Cross, help us to see that, for you, it was a journey of love. May we learn from this journey how to follow you more closely. We ask that you help us to accept the love for all people that you bear. Who live and reign forever and ever.


++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: ONE

The First Station: Jesus is condemned to death.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you
R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading
Many gave false testimony against Jesus, and their testimony did not agree. But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?" Jesus said, "I am; and
'you will see the Son of Man
seated at the right hand of the Power,'
and 'coming with the clouds of heaven.' "
Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, "Why do we still need witnesses? You have heard his blasphemy! What is your decision?" All of them condemned him as deserving death.[1][2]

(Jesus was unjustly judged. He was innocent. He was declared innocent even by Pilate. But he was condemned unjustly. There is only one true judge and that is God……… Have there been times that I have rushed to judgement against others. Have I spoken about others in ways that lead to them being rejected and treated in ways that do not respect their human dignity)?
ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: TWO
THE SECOND STATION: JESUS TAKES UP HIS CROSS.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you

R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading
Jesus called the people and his disciples to him and said, "If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let them renounce themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For anyone who wants to save their life will lose it; but anyone who loses their life for my sake, and for the sake of the Gospel, will save it".
[3]

(Our Lord took up his cross and carried it for us all. How can we carry our burdens and struggles in ways that give hope and encouragement to others? Do we take our burdens and worries to the Lord? Do we help others by offering encouragement and support, in their times of struggle? How do we ensure that we do not overburden others with unnecessary personal demands and optional needs? - to lighten other's load, and not lay unnecessary burdens on them?).

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: THREE

LEADER: THE THIRD STATION: JESUS FALLS THE FIRST TIME.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you
R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading
He has broken my teeth with gravel, pressed my face in the dust; My soul is deprived of peace, I have forgotten what happiness is.
[4]
………
Jesus said to his disciples: "I have told you all this so that you may find peace in me. In the world you will have troubles but be brave: I have conquered the world."
[5]

(Our Lord fell from exhaustion. Can we share our failures and struggles with Jesus, because he has shared in our physical frailty and knows our temptations and understands our weakness and pain? Are we gentle around others whose frailty and weakness visible? Are we gentle on ourselves in our own frailty? For all those who experience weakness in body, mind or spirit, may the Lord help them and lift them up. May we be willing to help up those who have fallen in one way or another).
ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: FOUR

LEADER: The Fourth Station: Jesus meets his mother.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you
R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading
As the child's father and mother stood there wondering at the things that were being said about him, Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "You see this child: he is destined for the fall and for the rising of many in Israel, destined to be a sign that is rejected - and a sword will pierce your own soul too - so that the secret thoughts of many may be laid bare."
[6]

(The Blessed Virgin Mary pondered and worried about Jesus all her life. Mary treasured all these events of Our Lord life, storing them up in her heart. Our Lady remained faithful to her beloved Son in good times and bad. Are we prepared to say "yes" to Our Lord and what he asks of us, (even if it leads to suffering and pain)? Can we draw strength from Mary who experienced confusion and wonder during her life, and also suffered the unimaginable pain of accompanying her son along his Passion? Mary suffering emotionally and spiritually at the foot of Our Lord's cross).

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross on Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: FIVE

LEADER: The Fifth Station: Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus to carry the cross.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you

R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading
As they were leading him away they seized a man, Simon from Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, and made him shoulder the cross and carry it behind Jesus.
[7]

(Simon was a traveler who was forced to help carry Our Lord' cross. How can we willingly help others in their burdens and struggles, to ease the pain? As a community, no one person is isolated from others. We are one people of God. We need to support and help each other. We are all the body of Christ and individually members of the Body. If one member suffers, all members suffer. Do we acknowledge our responsibility to the church and the wider community, as brothers and sisters in one family of God? Do we voluntarily do what is right and good – are we proactive- or do we often only respond when asked or when it is demanded of us? Can we be more open to respond willingly to the needs of others and our Christian calling).

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: SIX

LEADER: The Sixth Station: Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.
We adore you O Christ and we praise you

R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading

"Whoever has seen Me has seen the Father."
[8]

"For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you made me welcome; naked and you clothed me, sick and you visited me; in prison and you came to see me. I tell you solemnly, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it to me."
[9]

"Even as many were amazed at Him — so marred was His look beyond that of person, and His appearance beyond that of mortals — So shall He startle many nations, because of Him kings shall stand speechless."
[10]

(Veronica wiped the face of Jesus. Can we recognize the face of Our Lord in everyone we meet, especially those most in need? Do we serve Jesus by the way we treat those around us? In what ways do we offer comfort and strength to those who are struggling? Veronica means "true face" – do we seek, in our lives and our prayer, the true face of Christ in others and in the world. Do we live our lives so that others can recognize the face of Christ in us and our actions).

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: SEVEN

LEADER: The Seventh Station: Jesus falls the second time

We adore you O Christ and we praise you
R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading
"Yet he was pierced through for our faults, crushed for our sins. On him lies a punishment that brings us peace and through his wounds we are healed. We had all gone astray like sheep, each taking his own way, and the Lord burdened him with the sins of all of us."
[11]

I was hard pressed and was falling, but the Lord helped Me.
[12]

We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin.
[13]

(Our Lord fell the second time. We know weakness and struggle in our lives. Can we share our fears and failures with Our Lord? And can we trust in his love, his hope, and his forgiveness and strength? Are we patient with our own infirmities and weaknesses? Are we patient with the weaknesses of others? How do we react when others fall – emotionally, morally or spiritually? Are we there to support and help them up? At times, rather than help and support, do we condemn and let people fall lower in confidence and hope)

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: EIGHT
LEADER: The Eighth Station: The women of Jerusalem mourn for Jesus.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you
R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
Reading
A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. …For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?"
[14] [15]

(Even in the midst of Our Lord' unimaginable suffering and pain, he stops to show concern for the women and their families. He never stops thinking of others even when he is enduring terribly suffering? Do I focus on the needs of others or do my needs demand most of the attention? Even in this terrible suffering, Jesus reminds us and the women of Jerusalem that there are many different things to cry about, but he (incredibly) is saying that we shouldn't weep about his suffering but rather all the other things that are in need of change and justice. He wants them to weep for change and for conversion of heart, that would do some good. How can we make sure that our lives help to spread the good news of Jesus? How can we ensure that our attitudes and actions do not prove an obstacle in the path of what God wants to do in the world? We have come here today to commemorate and worship our Lord, who died to save us…. We mourn for his suffering, but Our Lord, again turns to us, and says, weep not for me… weep for yourselves and your ways… make a change.. change your heart. your attitudes… your condemnations.. your double standards… your selfishness.. we can start this new path here and now…)

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.
++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: NINE
LEADER: The Ninth Station: Jesus falls the third time.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you

R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
Reading
Jesus exclaimed, "Come to me, all you who labour and are over-burdened, and I will give you rest. Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Yes, my yoke is easy and my burden is light!
[16]

I am like water poured out; all My bones are racked. My heart has become like wax. My throat is dried up like baked clay, my tongue cleaves to My jaws; to the dust of death, you have brought Me down.
[17]

Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus. He emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave. He humbled Himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross.
[18]
Everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled, and he who humbles himself shall be exalted.
[19]
(Jesus was now totally exhausted. His physical energy almost completely gone. Can we imagine the incredible strength needed to keep going after this third fall, and after enduring so much already? It is clear that Our Lord gave himself utterly and totally for us. Christ gave himself to us all without any reservation or holding back in any way. How can we show generosity and love to those around us? How can we give generously of our gifts to help others?)

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: TEN
LEADER: The Tenth Station: Jesus is stripped of His Garments

We adore you O Christ and we praise you
R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
Reading
"They took his clothing and divided it into four shares, one for each soldier. His undergarment was seamless, woven in one piece from neck to hem; so they said to one another, "Instead of tearing it, let's throw dice to decide who is to have it". In this way the words of scripture were fulfilled: 'They shared out my clothing among them. They cast lots for my clothes.'"
[20]

You have stripped off your old behaviour, and have put on a new self which will progress towards true knowledge the more it is renewed in the image of its creator; in that image there is no room for distinction between Greek and Jew, the circumcised and uncircumcised, the barbarian and Scythian, the slave and free person. There is only one Christ; he is everything and he is in everything.
[21]
(Our Lord suffered every indignity out of love for others. He was completely humble and let go of everything because of his gospel message. He let nothing come between him and his total self-gift to the Father and to all people. Are there possessions, attitudes or ways of thinking that we hold on to, that stop us from being totally open to God and to others? What do we need to do to "strip away from our lives" all that is false, so we can be completely open to God and to others?).

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: ELEVEN

LEADER: The Eleventh Station: Jesus is nailed to the cross.
We adore you O Christ and we praise you
R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
Reading
When they reached the place called The Skull, they crucified him there and the two criminals also, one on the right, the other on the left. Jesus said: "Father, forgive them: they do not know what they are doing."
[22]
They have pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones.
[23]
"I have come down from heaven, not to do My will, but the will of Him Who sent Me."
[24]
"Jesus said to Nicodemus: "No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man who is in heaven: and the Son of Man must be lifted up as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him."
[25]
Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. Seeing his mother and the disciple he loved standing near her, Jesus said to his mother, "Woman, this is your son." Then to the disciple, he said, "This is your mother."
[26]
(Our Lord suffered terrible pain. Let us pray for and think of those who are suffering pain at this time. For all those suffering from persecution, from injustice, from prejudice, from being wrongfully accused, from poverty, from illness (and particularly at this time, peace in the Ukraine and peace in the hearts of people everywhere, in this troubled and violent world), from bereavement, from loneliness, from unemployment… //from any thing at all..// For all who suffer – physical, emotional or spiritual PAIN. (pause) May God help them, and be with them. May we help them in any way we can. May they know that Christ is with them in the midst of their suffering).
ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: TWELVE

LEADER: The Twelfth Station: Jesus Dies on the Cross.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you

R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading
…….. "If we live, we live for the Lord, if we die, we die for the Lord."
It was now about the sixth hour and with the sun eclipsed, a darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. The veil of the temple was torn right down the middle; and when Jesus cried out in a loud voice, he said, "Father, into your hands, I commit my spirit." With these words, he breathed his last.
[27]


(Our Lord died so that all might live through him. We pray for all those who are dying, and all those who have died. May they be welcomed into the reward of God's heavenly Kingdom. May we support and strengthen those facing death. (pause). And, when our earthly life is ended, may we see the glory of God forever and ever in Heaven – reunited with all those we love who have gone before us. We pray too for all those who face death or who have died alone, unloved, without hope… unjustly… or tragically… May the Lord who died to save them, bring them peace and reward. ).

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: THIRTEEN

LEADER: The Thirteenth Station: Jesus is taken down from the Cross.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you

R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading

"After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus - though a secret one because he was afraid of the Jews - asked Pilate to let him remove the body of Jesus. Pilate gave permission, so they came and took it away."
[28]

(Before Our Lord died, he gave his mother into the care of John. Our Lady is our inspiration of discipleship. May we be encouraged to imitate her faith, her perseverance in times of trial and utter confusion and unimaginable suffering, and her following of Jesus in good times and in bad. May we also be present for all who are suffering; - to give help and strength by our presence and support. May we acknowledge that we belong to one family in the church and are responsible for the welfare and spiritual care of those around us).

ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.

***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.

++++++++++
STATION NUMBER: FOURTEEN

LEADER: The Fourteenth Station: Jesus is laid in the Tomb.

We adore you O Christ and we praise you

R/ Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Reading

They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, following the Jewish burial custom. At the place where he had been crucified there was a garden, and in this garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been buried. Since it was the Jewish day of preparation and the tomb was near at hand, they laid Jesus there.
[29]

Jesus (had earlier) said to his disciples: "I tell you, most solemnly, unless a wheat grain falls on the ground and dies, it remains only a single grain; but if it dies, it yields a rich harvest. Anyone who loves their life loses it; anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for the eternal life."
[30]

(Our Lord was laid in the tomb. His three days in the tomb makes holy the graves of all who believe in Christ. We pray for those who have died in the hope of the resurrection. May they be welcomed into God's kingdom. May those who mourn the departed be strengthened by the sure hope of Christ's promise of eternal life. Our Lord, by his death, has destroyed death forever. Jesus by his own death and brought salvation to the world).
ALL: O Jesus, who for love of me, didst bear thy cross to Calvary. In thy sweet mercy grant to me, to suffer and to die with thee.
***(sung) Jesus has given his life for us.
+++
(at the sanctuary)

READER:
In your minds you must be the same as Christ Jesus: His state was divine, yet he did not cling to his equality with God, but emptied himself to assume the condition of a slave, and became as humans are; and being as all humans are, he was humbler yet, even to accepting death, death on a cross. But God raised him on high and gave him the name which is above all other names so that all beings in the heavens, on earth and in the underworld, should bend the knee at the name of Jesus and that every tongue should acclaim Jesus Christ as Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
[31]

+++
Leader:
Let us pray
(that the Gospel may have a deep effect in our daily lives)
Lord Jesus Christ, unite us with yourself in redeeming the world. As we walk the way of salvation, turn us away from sin. Help us to be faithful to the Gospel and come to see the fullness of your glory where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, One God forever and ever. Amen.

(all depart silently – no final announcements or blessings)

+++++
References:
Paul W. Kelly

[Adapted by Paul Kelly, with variations from Bill Huebsch "The new Scripture way of the Cross," © 1993. Also introductory prayer from "The Biblical Way of the Cross" by Michael A. Dubruiel and Amy Welborn, © 1994.

Main texts and reading suggestions taken from: Rev Shane Hoctor, Parish Priest. "MELBOURNE DIOCESE PUBLICATION, SEASONS OF HOPE," © 1997 Jubilee Committee of Melbourne]
Some readings are from Jerusalem version, others from New Revised Standard Version. © 1969, 1989.

This shorter version also includes various sources from Stations of the Cross, including the Stations of the Cross written by St. Alphonsus Liguori (A.D. 1696-1787).
++++
Archive of homilies and reflections is at:
http: //homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Leader, please email:
paulwkelly68@gmail.com

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(Image Shutterstock licensed Photo ID 1028159221. Biblical vector illustration series. Way of the Cross or Stations of the Cross, third station, Jesus falls for the first time. Contributor: - rudall30) .





[1]The New Revised Standard Version, (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers).
[2] Mark (14:56,61-64)
[3] Luke 9:23-24
[4] (Lamentations 3: 16-17)
[5] ( John 16:33)
[6] Luke 2:33-35
[7] Mark 15:21
[8] (John 14, 9)
[9] (Matt 25:35-36)
[10] (Isaiah 52:14-15) :
[11] (Isaiah 53:5-6).
[12] (Psalm 118, 13)
[13] (Hebrews 4, 15)
[14]The New Revised Standard Version, (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers).
[15] Luke 23:27-31
[16] (Matt 11:28-30).

[17] (Psalm 22.15-16)
[18] (Philippians 2.5-7)
[19] (Luke 14.11)
[20] (John 19:23-24)
[21] (Colossians 3:9-11)
[22] (Luke 23:33-34)

[23] (Psalm 22, 17-18)
[24] (John 6, 38)
[25] (John 3:13-15).
[26] John 19:25-27
[27] Luke 23:44-46
[28] (John 19:38).

[29] (John 19:40-42)
[30] (John 12:24-25)
[31] From Saint Paul to the Philippians (2:5-11)