The ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - 25th March, 2020

Homily The ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - 25th March 2020
(episode 215)
(This is a weekday Feast)
Readings

FIRST READING: Isaiah 7:10-14,8:10;

PSALM 39:7-11. "Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will."

SECOND READING: Hebrews 10:4-10.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 1:14). Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ! The word of God became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw his glory. Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ!

GOSPEL: Luke 1:26-38

 
Shutterstock Licensed Image stock photo ID: 1503715442. Vranov, Slovakia. 2019/8/22. Icon of the Annunciation – the announcement by the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and become the mother of Jesus. Convent of the Holy Trinity. By Adam Jan Figel
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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - 25th March 2020 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ep-215-the-annunciation-2020/s-jNrsY  (EPISODE:215 )    
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Today's feast of the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated, in a timely fashion exactly nine months to the day of Christmas. and three months before the feast of the birth of JOHN the Baptist. It is a feast of the Lord, commemorating the announcement to the Virgin Mary of the Word made flesh, Mary's acceptance of God's will, and the conception of Christ nine months before Christmas. This feast originated in the East during the sixth century and gained universal observance in the West during the eighth century.  Its occurrence close to Easter links the incarnation with the whole mystery of human redemption in Christ.

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For people throughout the world dealing with the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. That the Lord will grant healing and strength and support the medical and emergency response people. Lord hear us.  Lord Save us. 

We continue to pray for all people throughout the world - the many people- who are suffering due to the Coronavirus pandemic -  We pray for those who have died, that the Lord will receive them into his care. For bereaved family and friends, who also have experienced the isolation from loved ones at this time of health-restrictions and quarantine. We also pray for everyone affected by this terrible illness, including all suffering the isolation and the severe economic and financial effects. May the Lord inspire people of goodwill to find practical solutions to help and heal and lessen the burdens of so many.

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Mary was of the house of David and was engaged to be married to Joseph, of the same royal family. She had, however, not yet entered the household of her spouse, but was still in her mother's house, perhaps working, over her dowry. (Bardenhewer, Maria Verk., 69).

And the angel having taken the figure and the form of a man came into the house and said to her: "Greetings, full of grace … the Lord is with you."

Mary having heard the greeting words did not speak; she was troubled in spirit since she knew not the angel, nor the cause of his coming, nor the meaning of the greeting. And the angel continued and said: "Fear not, Mary, for have found favour with God. Behold you shall conceive in your womb, and bring forth a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Most-High, and the Lord God shall give to him the throne of David his father, and he shall reign in the house of Jacob forever. And of his kingdom, there shall be no end."

The Virgin understood that there was a question of the coming Redeemer. But, why should she be elected from amongst women for the splendid dignity of being the mother of the Messiah, having vowed her virginity to God? (St. Augustine). Therefore, not doubting the word of God like Zachary, but filled with fear and astonishment, she said: "How shall this be done, because I know not a man?" – this was not merely a present tense...  This was akin to "I have made a perpetual vow of virginity to God, even as I plan to be married, so how can this be?"   (Her question and confusion make no sense unless this is the clarification she seeks).

The angel, to remove Mary's anxiety and to reassure her resolve, answered: "The Holy Spirit shall come upon you and the power of the Most-High shall overshadow you. And therefore also the Holy One which shall be born of you shall be called the Son of God."

Mary, very likely, would not have yet fully understood the full meaning of the heavenly message and how the maternity might be reconciled with her vow of virginity, but clinging to the first words of the angel and trusting to the all-powerful faithfulness of God she said: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it done to me according to thy word."

Many holy fathers (Sts. Jerome, Cyril, Ephrem, Augustine) say that the consent of Mary was essential to the redemption. It was the will of God, St. Thomas says (Summa III:30), that the redemption of mankind should depend upon the consent of the Virgin Mary. This does not mean that God in His plans was bound by the will of a creature, and that man would not have been redeemed if Mary had not consented. It only means that the consent of Mary was foreseen from all eternity, and therefore was received as essential into the design of God.

https://sarahclarkson.com/thoroughly-alive/2017/11/17/annunciation-a-poem-and-a-holy-provocation

Annunciation      by Denise Levertov

We know the scene:

……Arrived on solemn grandeur of great wings, the angelic ambassador, standing or hovering, whom she acknowledges, a guest.

But we are told of meek obedience.
No one mentions courage.       

The engendering Spirit did not enter her without consent.
         God waited.
She was free to accept or to refuse, choice integral to humanness.

Aren't there annunciations of one sort or another in most lives?
Some unwillingly undertake great destinies, enact them in sullen pride, uncomprehending.

More often those moments when roads of light and storm open from darkness in a man or woman, are turned away from in dread, in a wave of weakness, in despair and with relief.

Ordinary lives continue.                           

God does not smite them. But the gates close, the pathway vanishes.

She had been a child who played, ate, slept like any other child–but unlike others,
wept only for pity, laughed in joy, not triumph.
Compassion and intelligence fused in her, indivisible.
Called to a destiny more momentous than any in all of Time, she did not quail,
only asked a simple, 'How can this be?' and gravely, courteously, took to heart the angel's reply, the astounding ministry she was offered:
To bear in her womb Infinite weight and lightness; to carry in hidden, finite inwardness, nine months of Eternity; to contain in slender vase of being, the sum of power–in narrow flesh, the sum of light.  Then bring to the birth, ……. a child needing, like any other, milk and love– but who was God!

This was the moment no one speaks of when she could still refuse.
A breath un-breathed,
          Spirit,

              suspended,
                              waiting ....
She did object: 'I cannot. I am not worthy,'
Nor did she cry out: 'I have not the strength.'
She did not submit with gritted teeth, raging, coerced.
Bravest of all humans, consent illumined her.
The room filled with its light,
the lily glowed in it,
and the iridescent wings.

Consent,

courage unparalleled,
opened her utterly.

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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

https://sarahclarkson.com/thoroughly-alive/2017/11/17/annunciation-a-poem-and-a-holy-provocation

Holweck, Frederick. "The Annunciation." The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 1. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1907. 7 Feb. 2020 http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/01541c.htm

Shutterstock Licensed Image stock photo ID: 1503715442. Vranov, Slovakia. 2019/8/22. Icon of the Annunciation – the announcement by the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and become the mother of Jesus. Convent of the Holy Trinity. By Adam Jan Figel
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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.
NB - It is often a week or so Ahead:  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).

{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.

"Today I Arise" - For Patricia 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 -  2020]

May God bless and keep you. 
  (EPISODE: 215)
The ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - (25th March 2020)

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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Lord Jesus, you are mighty God and Prince of Peace. Lord have mercy// You are Son of God and the Son of Mary. Christ have mercy// You are Word made flesh, the splendour of the Father. Lord have mercy.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.
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Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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Preface of Annunciation //
II //.
Communion side. PWK:

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Go, and Announce the gospel of the Lord.

URGENT MESSAGE FROM THE ARCHBISHOP OF BRISBANE (Australia)

The Most Reverend Mark Coleridge

23 March 2020

TO THE PASTORS AND PEOPLE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE

Last night the Federal Government suspended all non-essential gatherings for an initial 4 weeks to reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and to give the community time to understand fully social distancing requirements. The ruling applies from noon today (23 March).

The ruling includes a suspension of all religious gatherings, places of worship or funerals (in enclosed spaces and other than very small groups and where the 1 person per 4 square metre rule applies).

Therefore, all parishes in the Archdiocese of Brisbane are required to suspend with immediate effect all Masses, including weekday Masses.

Parish churches should close immediately until further notice. Mass will not be celebrated publicly; nor will there be other celebrations such as Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Stations of the Cross. However, the Cathedral of St Stephen will for the time being remain open for private prayer, with the current restrictions and precautions applying. This is because, in a way not possible for parish churches, the Cathedral is able to ensure a supply of the necessary cleaning materials and the staff to ensure that the space and its furnishings are properly cleaned on a regular basis. It is also a symbolic way, at the heart of the city, of pointing to the necessity of prayer at a time when prayer is more needed than ever.

Funerals

Funerals should be a private event strictly limited in size and in line with Queensland Health guidelines The 4 square meter rule shall be adhered to and social distancing of 1.5 metres observed throughout. If you need advice in this matter please contact aomail@bne.catholic.net.au.

Other Sacraments

The Sacrament of Reconciliation should not be celebrated until further notice. The Holy See has given permission for the celebration of the Third Rite in exceptional circumstances which are unlikely to apply in this country. Approval should be sought from me or Bishop Howell for any proposed celebration of the Third Rite.

Baptism and weddings should be delayed if at all possible. If these celebrations need to proceed, attendance should again be strictly limited, with the 4 square metre rule and social distancing of 1.5 metres observed in line with the advice I gave last week.
First Reconciliation, Confirmation and First Communion should be postponed until the pandemic is over.

Other events
All other parish events, both outdoor and indoor, should be cancelled. This would include events such as outdoor Stations of the Cross on Good Friday.
Meetings should be conducted by phone or skype wherever possible, and where held in person, need to be conducted in line with the 4 square metre rule and social distancing of 1.5 metres throughout.

In days to come, I will provide Archdiocesan directives for the celebration of Holy Week, which will be based upon the guidelines already produced by the Holy See.

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference is submitting to the Holy See texts for a Mass in Time of Pandemic, which we hope to have approved in the near future.

I conclude with the Collect of that Mass:
O God, healer of all our ills,
to whom we turn in this time of distress,
grant, we pray in the power of faith,
eternal rest to the dead and comfort to those who mourn,
health to the sick and peace to the dying,
strength to medical workers, wisdom to our leaders
and a spirit of kindness to us all.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.

Amen.

As always in the Lord,
+ Archbishop Mark Coleridge
Archbishop of Brisbane

Fourth Sunday of Lent. Year A - Sunday, March 22, 2020

Fourth Sunday of Lent. Year A - Sunday, March 22, 2020

Readings for 4th Sunday of Lent A
FIRST READING: 1 Samuel 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a
Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6. "The Lord is my shepherd, there is nothing I shall want"
SECOND READING: Ephesians 5:8-14
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 8:12). Glory to you, Word of God, Lord Jesus Christ.  I am the light of the world, says the Lord. whoever follows me will have the light of life. Glory to you, Word of God, Lord, Jesus Christ.
GOSPEL: John 9:1-41 - Man Born Blind
 

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed ID: 1344225065. Biblical vector illustration series. Jesus heals the blind man. By rudall30
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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the Fourth Sunday of Lent. Year A - Sunday, March 22, 2020, by clicking this link here:   https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ep-214-lent-4-a-2020/s-uJa3u  (EPISODE: 214)
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This weekend, we hear the wonderful psalm, that has brought so much comfort and strength in times of difficulty…  the Lord is my Shepherd…  I shall not want.. He leads me along the right paths; He preserves my soul…".    In addition, we have the amazing incident of Our Lord healing the blind man and the experts in the law refusing to accept it. This is a profound call for us to beware of any spiritual blindness our willfulness can cause.  The lord has come to shine his light of love, truth and healing upon the world and he invites us to stand on the right side of history.  

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For people throughout the world dealing with the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. That the Lord will grant healing and strength and support the medical and emergency response people. Lord hear us.  Lord Save us. 

We continue to pray for all people throughout the world - the many people- who are suffering due to the Coronavirus pandemic -  We pray for those who have died, that the Lord will receive them into his care. For bereaved family and friends, who also have experienced the isolation from loved ones at this time of health-restrictions and quarantine. We also pray for everyone affected by this terrible illness, including all suffering the isolation and the severe economic and financial effects. May the Lord inspire people of goodwill to find practical solutions to help and heal and lessen the burdens of so many.

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Many of you might remember the old Royal Brisbane Hospital -  It stood where the new high-tech buildings stand in Brisbane opposite the show grounds.  I remember visiting relatives at the old Royal Brisbane hospital as they recovered from surgery.  Back in the original days, there was a wonderful long open-balcony where patients could be wheeled out to sit in the sun because the benefits of getting a bit of sun was an important part of healing. The new building dispensed with this pleasing aspect. 

This little bit of history reminds me of the teaching in this weekend's second reading.   The Light of Christ casts away all darkness and not only shows up any flaws and faults but also shines its healing light upon our wounds.  The image is a powerful and positive one. 

Back in the days of Our Lord, the local merchants and their stalls would line the streets. Each one inside a little booth, covered in shade-cloths. A wise customer, when attempting to buy some fine silk or other precious items would take the product outside the entrance of the shop and hold it up to the sunlight, so that any flaws or damage would be easily revealed, which would be invisible to the eye in a darkened booth.  The wisdom of this image of Christ as the divine light who scatters the darkness of sin and death is powerful and deeply reassuring.

We Christians are encouraged by Saint Paul to be like children of light, and put away all the works of darkness. And the SIGN of being a child of light shines through in one's actions -    for he says, "the effects of the light are seen in complete goodness, right living and truth. And are completely inconsistent with the futile works of darkness."   We witness to the light of Christ shining in our hearts, by actions and attitudes which contrast sharply with the ways of secrecy, shame and darkness. The things which are done in secret are things that people are ashamed even to speak of; /  Sunlight exposes flaws…  But, sunlight also has medicinal value too, as we have mentioned. Its healing qualities for "killing off the bad" by opening up the wounds to the sunlight. So, our Christian path is not only about avoiding the exposure of our sins and the condemnation that follows, but more positively, to bring about healing and spiritual and moral resilience.'''

I love that first reading.  It reminds us that God is primarily concerned with what is within -  not merely outward appearances. God judges the heart and not by externals.  Look at that wonderful scene where God asks the Prophet Samuel to anoint the future King as the successor to King Saul. He visits Jesse and looks at each of the brothers.  The older brothers all look strong and tall and imposing, but none of them is acceptable to God. God judges from the heart…  they eventually run out of brothers, until Samuel finds out that the youngest and least likely one is not there. He has been overlooked. He is out looking after the sheep.  He is called in and chosen by God. God, by CHOOSING AND ANOINTING DAVID and not any of his BROTHERS, BY SAMUEL. The Oil is poured over his head, as a sign of God's choice and commissioning. He is not made king there and then. He actually goes back to his shepherding. But God has already chosen and anointed him for his future. Note, too that although God chooses from what is in the heart and not just the outward appearances, nevertheless, we are told that David still has a find bearing.   Being someone who is engaging to others, appealing and can draw people to oneself, this is an important value of a leader, but also, inside are innocence, godliness, righteousness, (later in this same chapter, he is described to King Saul as a "brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the Lord is with him. All these inner qualities are also important. "(1 Sam 16:18, NIV).  

And then, in the wonderful Gospel, there are a FASCINATING SERIES OF ENCOUNTERS… and scenes. Our Lord cures a BLIND MAN ON the SABBATH. This leads to ridiculous arguments and questioning from the religious authorities. They question the once-blind man and when he answers them honestly, they don't want to hear his answer and throw him out saying "why would we listen to you. You are a sinner."  But THEY are the ones asking him the question. They are clearly able to see, but quite obviously spiritually blind and don't even know it. That very fitting saying – "there are none who are so blind as they who will not SEE!"  Meaning, of course – "Understanding cannot be forced on someone who chooses to be ignorant" or also the very similar saying "you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink."

Again, it is so important for us to realise that this incident is not in the Gospels to tell us how stubborn and willfully blind and stubbornly deaf people were two thousand years ago.  We too are quite capable of hearing without listening and looking without seeing. Refusing to be challenged or to change when the light is shone on our own faults or areas for growth.  

The man who was cured, meets Jesus again, (or actually, Jesus searches for him and finds him again). The cured man has a wonderful OPENNESS OF HEART AND MIND…    and he says to the Lord: "LET ME KNOW who this Son of Man is, so I CAN BELIEVE IN HIM…."  - "I want to believe, just show him to me." And Jesus says, "You are looking at him, it is me! " This man was open and ready. He did not say to our Lord. "look I am old and I have been through enough. I don't want any more. I am too set in my ways to change, so this is as far as I go. No, he was ready and willing.

 "What gets us into trouble is not what we don't know. It's what we know for sure that just ain't so."   ― Mark Twain

 Show us lord and we will believe and we will worship you!   Always open us,  so as to go deeper and immerse ourselves more fully into the light of Christ and the endless depths of Christ, who is THE  water of eternal life.
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

Barclay, W. (2002). The letters to the Galatians and Ephesians. 3rd ed. Louisville, Kentucky: Westminster John Knox Press, pp.189-191.

Payne, D. (1982). I and II Samuel. Philadelphia: Westminster Press. P 81-83

https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/there_are_none_so_blind_as_those_who_will_not_see

** Jer. 5:21 (King James version): "Hear now this, O foolish people, and without understanding; which have eyes, and see not; which have ears, and hear not."      / "There are none so blind as those who will not see. The most deluded people are those who choose to ignore what they already know. The proverb has been traced back in English to 1546 (John Heywood), and resembles the Biblical verse: Jer. 5:21. In 1738, it was used by Jonathan Swift in his 'Polite Conversation,' and is first attested in the United States in the 1713 'Works of Thomas Chalkley'..."   https://www.phrases.org.uk/bulletin_board/5/messages/1614.html 

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed ID: 1344225065. Biblical vector illustration series. Jesus heals the blind man. By rudall30
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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.
NB - It is often a week or so Ahead:  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).

Lenten Hymn: "Have Mercy"  inspired by Psalm 50(51). Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2020. [ Production -  KER -  2020] 

May God bless and keep you. 
Fourth Sunday of Lent. Year A  (Sunday, March 22, 2020)  (EPISODE: 214 )
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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{{Hello}}

Coming together as brothers and sisters, with confidence let us ask the Fathers forgiveness, for he is full of gentleness and compassion
You were sent to heal the contrite of heart. Lord, have mercy.// You came to call sinners: Christ, have mercy. //You are seated at the right hand of the Father to intercede for us: Lord, have mercy.//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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Sunday Lent IV
Eucharistic Prayer I
Communion side.  PWK:  LH
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{thank you so much for taking this time with me to listen to God's word and for praising God for his goodness and care.}

Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.

St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. 19 March 2020

St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. 19 March  Solemnity
(This is a weekday Feast)

Readings

2 Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14, 16;

Psalm 88:2-5, 27, 29 R. "The son of David will live forever."

Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22;

Gospel Acclamation: (Ps 83:5). "Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ! How happy they who dwell in your house, O Lord; continually they sing your praise! Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ!"

**Luke 2:41-51

 Stock illustration Shutterstock licensed image - ID: 586044503 – "Holy family of Jesus, Mary and St Joseph the worker."  Artistic abstract religious design. By Thoom.

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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the Solemnity of St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary  by clicking this link here:   https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ep-213-saint-joseph-2020/s-3Jiqn  (EPISODE:213)
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Today we commemorate Saint Joseph. SPOUSE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY and step-father to the Lord Jesus.

A carpenter, though born of the royal house of David, Joseph was an upright man who, as the husband of the Virgin Mary, cared for Mary and the child Jesus. Venerated in the East after the fourth century and his veneration spread throughout the West during the fifteenth century, especially following the development of medieval nativity plays, the Christmas crib, and due to increased devotion to Mary.
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For people throughout the world dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic. That the Lord will grant healing and strength and support the medical and emergency response people. Lord hear us.  Lord Save us.

We continue to pray for all people throughout the world - the many people- who are suffering due to the Coronavirus pandemic -  We pray for those who have died, that the Lord will receive them into his care. For bereaved family and friends, who also have experienced the isolation from loved ones at this time of health-restrictions and quaranteen. We also pray for everyone affected by this terrible illness, including all suffering the isolation and the severe economic and financial effects. May the Lord inspire people of goodwill to find practical solutions to help and heal and lessen the burdens of so many.

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Saint Joseph is an excellent and very fitting person to honour and have devotion to.  He had such wonderful qualities:  he was  -
Good, pure, faithful, a beautiful guardian and step-father to Our Lord, a faithful and devoted husband to the Blessed Virgin Mary, hardworking, trusting, utterly and immediately obedient to God, humble, an excellent protector and provider, a loyal servant of God and faithful to God's plan at all times.

Saint Joseph's words are not recorded in the Scriptures,  but his actions, his faithfulness and obedience and care are clearly attested there.

Many people throughout history have spoken of the significance of Joseph.  Here are some excellent quotes:

Some Quotes about Saint Joseph

St. Joseph was chosen among all men, to be the protector and guardian of the Virgin Mother of God; the defender and foster-father of the Infant-God, and the only co-operator upon earth, the one confidant of the secret of God in the work of the redemption of mankind. - St. Bernard of Clairvaux
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Saint Joseph was a just man, a tireless worker, the upright guardian of those entrusted to his care. May he always guard, protect and enlighten families. - Pope John Paul II
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(moved position)
Would that I could persuade all men to be devoted to this glorious Saint [St. Joseph], for I know by long experience what blessings he can obtain for us from God. I have never known anyone who was truly devoted to him and honored him by particular services who did not advance greatly in virtue: for he helps in a special way those souls who commend themselves to him. It is now very many years since I began asking him for something on his feast, and I have always received it. If the petition was in any way amiss, he rectified it for my greater good . . . I ask for the love of God that he who does not believe me will make the trial for himself—then he will find out by experience the great good that results from commending oneself to this glorious Patriarch and in being devoted to him .- St.Teresa of Avila
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We should, indeed, honour St. Joseph, since the Son of God Himself was graciously pleased to honour him by calling him father. The Holy Scriptures speak of him as the father of Jesus. "His father and mother were marvelling at the things spoken  -concerning Him" (Luke 2:33). Mary also used this name: "in sorrow, thy father and I have been seeking thee" (Luke 2:48). If then, the King of Kings was pleased to raise Joseph to so high a dignity, it is right and obligatory on our part to endeavour to honour him as much as we can.  - St. Alphonsus Liguori
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St Alphonsus goes on to say:

Go, then to Joseph, and do all that he shall say to you;
Go to Joseph, and obey him as Jesus and Mary obeyed him;
Go to Joseph, and speak to him as they spoke to him;
Go to Joseph, and consult him as they consulted him;
Go to Joseph, and honour him as they honoured him;
Go to Joseph, and be grateful to him as they were grateful to him;
Go to Joseph, and love him, as they love him still.
- St. Alphonsus Liguori
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and also:

The two disciples, going to Emmaus, (Lk. 24:13-31) were inflamed with divine love by the few moments which they spent in company with our Savior, and by His words. What flames of holy love must not, then, have been enkindled in the heart of St. Joseph, who for thirty years conversed with Jesus Christ, and listened to His words of eternal life; who observed the perfect example which Jesus gave of humility and patience, and saw the promptness with which He obeyed and helped him in his labours, and all that was needed for the household! - St. Alphonsus Liguori

(taken from http://thecatholicreader.blogspot.com/2013/06/quotes-about-st-joseph.html

Saint Joseph, (Step-father and Guardian of Our Lord Jesus Christ, and faithful husband to the Blessed Virgin Mary), pray for us.
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

Seasonal information - Liturgy Brisbane. Liturgybrisbane.

Quotes about Saint Joseph. (2020). [online] Thecatholicreader.blogspot.com. Available at: http://thecatholicreader.blogspot.com/2013/06/quotes-about-st-joseph.html [Accessed 12 Feb. 2020].

Stock illustration Shutterstock licensed image - ID: 586044503 – "Holy family of Jesus, Mary and St Joseph the worker."  Artistic abstract religious design. By Thoom.
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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.
NB - It is often a week or so Ahead:  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).

{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.

"Today I Arise" - For Patricia 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 -  2020]

May God bless and keep you. 
St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. 19 March Solemnity (EPISODE: 213 )
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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{{Good day everyone}}

Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.
Lord Jesus, you have revealed yourself as the way to the Father: Lord, have mercy//You have poured out on your people the Spirit of truth: Christ, have mercy//You are the Good Shepherd, leading us to eternal life: Lord, have mercy.//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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Easter I
Euch Prayer One
Communion side.  pwk:  RH
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{thanks everyone. And may God sustain you with his grace and love.}

Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.

St Patrick, Bishop. 17 March. Solemnity

St Patrick, Bishop. 17 March. Solemnity
(This is a weekday Feast)

ST PATRICK, bishop (Seasonal colour- white). Mass of the Solemnity.   Gloria, Creed, Preface of Holy Pastors.  (JB Lectionary, vol. 1, p. 979)

Readings:

Jeremiah 1:4-9;

Ps 116. R. "Go out to all the world, and tell the Good News."

Acts 13:46-49;

Gospel Acclamation. (Luke 4:18-19). "Praise and honour to you, Lord Jesus Christ! The Lord sent me to bring Good News to the poor, and freedom to prisoners. Praise and honour to you, Lord Jesus Christ!"

Luke 10:1-12,17-20

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed  stock illustration ID: 580108297 St Patrick, bishop, patron saint of Ireland. Abstract artistic digital illustration. By Thoom.
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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the Saint Patrick's Solemnity by clicking this link here:   https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ep-212-saint-patrick-solemnity-in-australia-2020/s-SpMwv  (EPISODE:212)
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We continue to pray for all people throughout the world - the many people- who are suffering due to the Coronavirus pandemic -  we pray for those who have died, that the Lord will receive them into his care. For bereaved family and friends. We also pray for everyone affected by this terrible illness, including everyone suffering the isolation the severe economic effects. May the Lord inspire people of goodwill to find practical solutions to help and heal and lessen the burdens of so many.

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Today we commemorate Saint Patrick of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain around the end of the fourth century. He Died in Ireland about the middle of the fifth century. Faced hardship as a missionary bishop in Ireland, and opposition even from his friends and fellow Christians. Yet worked to unite and reconcile people, to evangelise, and to educate local chieftains and their families. Remembered for his simplicity and pastoral care, for his humble trust in God, and for his fearless preaching of the gospel to those who had enslaved him in his youth. Specially honoured in Australia because the many Irish people who came to settle here brought with them the faith and zeal of St Patrick. fittingly we now hear a hymn inspired by SAINT Patrick's prayer...  today I arise ....  and a happy feast day to my mum Patricia and all whose patron is St Patrick. Faith hope and love —-  
.....
Qualities:  
Listening - Empathy - Healing - Awareness – He was clearly aware of his own weaknesses and the culture of the Celtic Irish. Persuasion - His ability to convert strong leaders, Chieftains and Kings. Conceptualization – The use of the shamrock to articulate the Trinity. Foresight - The strategy he employed in charting his mission throughout Ireland, carefully choosing each step. Stewardship - He saw the future of Ireland and the care of its people as the core of his mission. Commitment to the growth of people - He trained clergy and so sustained and consolidated each location before moving on to the next.  Building community - The sites he used as Churches were at or near the seats of Chieftains and Kings, many were founded as monastic settlements and became population centres at a time when few existed.
 (taken from https://www.probuilder.com/blog/st-patrick-10-lessons-leadership) 
~~~~
**** in detail: 
Listening - The time he took to listen, talk and answer questions was a recurring theme.
Empathy - Based the trials of his own life his empathy was displayed when he encountered the trials of others. This was especially clear in his letter to Coroticus.
Healing - At the end of his Letter to Coroticus he offers the opportunity for them to repent, even after what they had done, the chance for healing.
Awareness – He was clearly aware of his own weaknesses and the culture of the Celtic Irish.
Persuasion - His ability to convert strong leaders, Chieftains and Kings.
Conceptualization – The use of the shamrock to articulate the Trinity.
Foresight - The strategy he employed in charting his mission throughout Ireland, carefully choosing each step.
Stewardship - He saw the future of Ireland and the care of its people as the core of his mission.
Commitment to the growth of people - He trained clergy and so sustained and consolidated each location before moving on to the next.
Building community - The sites he used as Churches were at or near the seats of Chieftains and Kings, many were founded as monastic settlements and became population centres at a time when few existed.
 (taken from https://www.probuilder.com/blog/st-patrick-10-lessons-leadership) 
________
QUOTES: 

1.) "So I turned with all my heart to the Lord my God, and he looked down on my lowliness and had mercy on my youthful ignorance. He guarded me before I knew him, and before I came to wisdom and could distinguish between good and evil. He protected me and consoled me as a father does for his son." (Confessio, 2)
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2.) "This is how we can repay such blessings when our lives change and we come to know God, to praise and bear witness to his great wonders before every nation under heaven." (Confessio, 3)
________
"This is the one we acknowledge and adore – one God in a Trinity of the sacred name." (Confessio, 4)

6.) "In the knowledge of this faith in the Trinity, and without letting the dangers prevent it, it is right to make known the gift of God and his eternal consolation. It is right to spread abroad the name of God faithfully and without fear, so that even after my death I may leave something of value to the many thousands of my brothers and sisters – the children whom I baptized in the Lord." (Confessio, 14)
________
7.) "I didn't deserve at all that the Lord would grant such great grace, after hardships and troubles, after the captivity, and after so many years among that people. It was something which, when I was young, I never hoped for or even thought of." (Confessio, 15)
________
 9.) "It was in the strength of God that I went – God who turned the direction of my life to good." (Confessio, 17)
________
10.) "For that reason, I give thanks to the one who strengthened me in all things, so that he would not impede me in the course I had undertaken and from the works also which I had learned from Christ my Lord." (Confessio, 30)
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8.) "More and more the love of God increased, and my sense of awe before God." (Confessio, 16)
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15.) "So I want to give thanks to God without ceasing." (Confessio, 46)________
Before I was humiliated I was like a stone that lies in deep mud, and he who is mighty came and in his compassion raised me up and exalted me very high and placed me on the top of the wall.
________
I am Patrick, a sinner, most uncultivated and least of all the faithful and despised in the eyes of many.
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if I did or showed forth anything however small according to God's good pleasure; let this be your conclusion and let it so be thought, that - as is the perfect truth - it was the gift of God.
________________
Christ beside me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ within me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me.
________
The Lord discovered to me a sense of my unbelief that, though late, I should remember my transgressions and that I should be converted with my whole heart to the Lord my God.
________
I only seek in my old age to perfect that which I had not before thoroughly learned in my youth, because my sins were a hindrance to me.
________
I plainly told them, 'Be ye sincerely converted, and with your whole heart, to the Lord our God, for nothing is impossible to Him, that He may today send you food on your road, even until you are satisfied, because He has everywhere abundance.' And, with God's help, it was so done: Behold! A herd of swine appeared on the road before our eyes.
________________
I have a Creator who knew all things, even before they were made - even me, his poor little child.
________
I partly know why I have not led a perfect life like other believers. But I avow to my Lord, and I do not lie, that from the time when I first knew him, the love of God and the fear of him has grown in me from my youth so that I have, by the power of God, always till now kept the faith.
________
Let who will scoff and revile - I will not remain silent; neither will I conceal the signs and wonders which have been shown to me by the Lord, who knew all things even before the time of this world, many years before, just as they happened.
________
Sufficient for me is that honour which is not seen of men but is felt in the heart, as faithful is He who hath promised and who never lies.
________
I have had the good fortune through my God that I should never abandon his people whom I have acquired in the extremities of the earth.
________
I most certainly believe that it is the gift of God that I am what I am. And so I dwell amongst barbarians, a proselyte and an exile, for the love of God.
________
Believe Avarice is a deadly sin.
________
I was freeborn according to the flesh; I am born of a father who was a decurion, (Roman cavalry officer in command of a squadron (turma)), but I sold my noble rank - I blush not to state it, nor am I sorry - for the profit of others. In short, I am a slave in Christ to a foreign nation for the unspeakable glory of the eternal life which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
________
It was not any grace in me, but God that put this earnest care into my heart, that I should be one of the hunters or fishers whom long ago God foreshowed would come in the last days.
________
I see that already in this present world I am exalted above measure by the Lord. And I was not worthy nor such a one as that he should grant this to me since I know most surely that poverty and affliction become me better than delights and riches.
________
I have vowed to my God to teach the heathen, though I am despised by some.
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 The Lord is greater than all: I have said enough.

(taken from https://epicpew.com/17-breathtaking-quotes-saint-patricks-confessio/  and https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/saint-patrick-quotes)

++++++++
References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

(taken from https://epicpew.com/17-breathtaking-quotes-saint-patricks-confessio/  and https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/saint-patrick-quotes)

(taken from https://www.probuilder.com/blog/st-patrick-10-lessons-leadership   ) 

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed
+++
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.
NB - It is often a week or so Ahead:  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).

{Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -  by Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The ….Gloria,  copyright 2011 ccwatershed.org. }

"Today I Arise" - For Patricia 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 -  2020]

May God bless and keep you. 
St Patrick, Bishop. 17 March. Solemnity  (EPISODE: 212)
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 empathy abide in you.}}

My brothers and sisters, we have gathered to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, - so let us pause and reflect upon our sins, so as to rejoice in Gods loving mercy.

Lord Jesus, you came to gather the nations into the peace of God's kingdom: Lord, have mercy// You come in word and in sacrament to strengthen us and make us holy: Christ, have mercy//You will come again in glory with salvation for your people: Lord, have

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
+++++++++++++++++++++
Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Pastors
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Go and Announce the Gospel of the Lord.