Weekday Solemnity - The Solemnity of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary –15th August 2024. (ep 491-B special)

Weekday Solemnity - The Solemnity of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary –15th August 2024. (ep 491-B special)

Shutterstock Licensed Image Credit: Photo Description - Stock Photo ID: 473077459 -  FATIMA, PORTUGAL - JULY 23, 2016: Painting of the Coronation of Mother Mary by the Holy Trinity at the Sanctuary of Fatima in Portugal. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor-jorisvo

 

Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish - Weekly Parish Mass - podcast of Eucharist, including readings, prayers, homily) Greetings from Surfers Catholic parish!

Please find linked below the latest edition of the Parish weekly Homily and link to the (audio) podcast of the mass, especially produced for those who are unable to be with us at mass.

https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/fhl-weekday-solemnity-the-assumption-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-yearabc-episode-491b-special/s-6R7QsMwVDKj  
The Solemnity of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary –15th August

Readings
FIRST READING: Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10
Psalm: Ps 44:10-12, 16. "The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold."
SECOND READING: 1 Corinthians 15:20-26
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION, (Alleluia, alleluia! Mary is taken up to heaven, and the angels of God shout for joy. Alleluia!).
GOSPEL: Luke 1:39-56

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Prologue: This feast originated in Jerusalem before the fifth century as the "Falling-Asleep of the Mother of God." It was adopted in Rome in the mid-seventh century and was renamed the "Assumption" in the eighth century. It celebrates Mary's passing over, body and soul, from this world into the glory of her risen Son. The foretaste and forerunner of what will be the reward of all the faithful at the fullness of the resurrection on the last day.

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Look at the wonders the Holy Spirit of God can achieve when we are open, obedient, humble and cooperative with God's plan in our lives…. Just as the blessed virgin Mary, Mother of God, and Mother of the church,  is an ideal example of someone who cooperated with God's plans… and as a result, allowed God to do great things through her life and actions

Look at the incredible grace, love and fruit that is produced from saying an emphatic and unreserved - "YES" to what God wants to achieve through us in the world…..

 

as it so wonderfully says in today's Preface -  "today the Virgin Mother of God

was assumed into heaven, as the beginning and image, of your Church's coming to perfection, and a sign of sure hope and comfort to your pilgrim people. 

 

From the sixth century, we have Gregory of Tours speaking about the Dormition, and then some time later, the Assumption:

The course of this life having been completed by Blessed Mary, when now she would be called from the world, all the Apostles came together from their various regions to her house. And when they had heard that she was about to be taken from the world, they kept watch together with her. And behold, the Lord Jesus came with His angels, and taking her soul, He gave it over to angel Michael and withdrew. 

At daybreak, however, the Apostles took up her body on a bier and placed it in a tomb; and they guarded it, expecting the Lord to come. And behold, again the Lord stood by them; and the holy body having been received, he commanded that it be taken in a cloud into paradise: where now, rejoined to the soul, [Mary] rejoices with the Lord's chosen ones, and is the enjoyment of the good of an eternity that will never end." (Saint Gregory of Tours, Bishop; A. D.595-A.D. 594); Eight Books of Miracles; A.D. 575-593)

One key distinction to keep in mind: The Ascension of Jesus was accomplished through Jesus' own power as God. The Assumption of the Blessed Mother was done for her by the Power of God, not under her own power.

And so /….Our Blessed Mother was taken into heaven, body and soul, passing from this life.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church adds (CCC 967):

By her complete adherence to the Father's will, to His Son's redemptive work, and to every prompting of the Holy Spirit, the Virgin Mary is the model of faith and charity. Thus she is a "preeminent and wholly unique member of the Church"; indeed, she is the "exemplary realization" of the Church.

And so,   Mary became the first to be resurrected into heaven body and soul…   and this is the hope of all the church for each of us, when on the last day, we will be body and soul in heaven with God.

May Mary, who shows us an openness and generosity to God…. and pre-figures the destiny of all who hope in Jesus' promises, continue to inspire us to make a difference…. and say "yes" to God's values in all we do, (at home, at work, in the classrooms and workplaces.. in formal and social situations, and in the community….)

Blessed Virgin Mary, assumed body and soul into heaven, pray for us, that we may be made worthy of the sure promises of Christ.
Amen.

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References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly

https://aleteia.org/2019/08/14/beautiful-thoughts-from-the-saints-on-marys-death-and-assumption 

also see-  https://www.ncregister.com/blog/the-assumption-of-mary-12-things-to-know-and-share-27jd571n?amp

Shutterstock Licensed Image Credit: Photo Description - Stock Photo ID: 473077459 -  FATIMA, PORTUGAL - JULY 23, 2016: Painting of the Coronation of Mother Mary by the Holy Trinity at the Sanctuary of Fatima in Portugal. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor-jorisvo
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In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
{{Good wishes to you all.}}

On this special (Solemnity of) The Assumption Of Mary
Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

Lord Jesus, you glorified your mother; the ark of God. Lord have mercy.

You raised the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul, into heavenly glory. Christ have mercy.

Mary's assumption is the first fruits of the victory you won for the human race. 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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PREFACE: Glory of Mary assumed into heaven (solemnity)
Euch.Prayer: 3

Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.

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{thanks, everyone. And may God sustain you with his grace and love.}


Dismissal:

Go in peace
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Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com
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To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks


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.

Hymn – "Rainfall – Mother of Mercy." Music by Paul W. Kelly. 1994, 2021. Words adapted by Paul W. Kelly, based on the Traditional Salve Regina Hymn. Arranged & with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2021. https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk

Marian Hymn – "Whom Earth and Sea and Sky Proclaim." Traditional 6th Century Hymn. Melody: Bartholomaus Gesius (d.1613). #376 - Brébeuf Hymnal. From https://www.ccwatershed.org/hymn/

Marian Hymn - "Salve Regina Mater Misericordiae." (Traditional 11th Century). Melody: Mainz (1712), Hymn #783 - Brébeuf Hymnal. From https://www.ccwatershed.org/hymn/

Magnificat (Praise and sing to God) - Music by Paul W. Kelly. (1985, 2010, 2021), Lyrics inspired by Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55). Music arranged, with adapted lyrics by Stefan de Freyne Kelk. [https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk] July 1, 2021.

[ Production - KER - 2024]

May God bless and keep you.
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Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. -Year B - Sunday, 11 August 2024 (EPISODE: 491)

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. -Year B -  Sunday, 11 August 2024 (EPISODE: 491)

Readings for Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.- Year B
FIRST READING: 1 Kgs 19:4-8
Ps 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9. "Taste and see the goodness of the Lord."
SECOND READING: Eph 4:30—5:2
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 6:51). Alleluia, alleluia! I am the living Bread from heaven, says the Lord. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.
GOSPEL: John 6:41-51

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1275986371 - Vienna, Austria, 2016/11/26. The icon of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ in Saint Hripsime Church (Armenian Apostolic Church). -Important information - Editorial Use Only. - Photo Contributor: Adam Jan Figel
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily) for Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 11 August 2024 - by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-19th-sunday-ordinary-time-year-b-episode-491/s-LlBPhB0kkgk  
(EPISODE:491)
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GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND

Homily: Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 11 August 2024

Prologue: It's important to believe that God is continually at work, trying to sustain us in all our needs. For example, we look at the way God sent an angel to Elijah to touch him and give him a simple scone and some water in order to sustain him on his difficult journey to the mountain of God. I believe that in so many simple and everyday ways, God sends us angels.

In the people and events and opportunities of life, which are meant to sustain us and nurture us and encourage us on our way, especially when we're struggling along that journey. And God gives us the Eucharist as the perfect food for our spiritual journey as disciples of Jesus. It's not an easy path to follow, but it is the path of life.
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In the readings this weekend, we see more examples of people losing hope and starting to complain and giving up. Whilst the Lord is continuously shown offering new strength and feeding the starving, encouraging those who are downcast, challenging us and willing us to keep trusting, keep walking humbly in God's abundant care and providence.

To sustain us, God gives us his life-giving word, as well as his very self. In the Eucharist, God showers us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to give us the grace to be the people of God that God is calling us to be and to become what God intends. God even sends us angels, in the broadest sense of that word, agents of God's grace, instruments of God's love, to encourage us, to nourish us, to refresh us in times of struggle and doubt.

This weekend's readings are inspiring and beautiful and they continue that clear Eucharistic theme from the Gospel. Without any doubt, our Lord is being very clear, Jesus is the true bread that has come down from heaven. He is the bread of life.

Anyone who eats this bread from heaven will have eternal life. Jesus gives us true nourishment to continue the path of life as disciples. There's a line in the first reading that really strikes me.

The prophet Elijah is physically, spiritually and emotionally exhausted. He's ready to give up. It all seems too much, too hard.

So God sends an angel to help him. The angel gently wakes him up and twice says to him, get up and eat or the journey will be too long for you. I think that's very telling.

Following God is a difficult and challenging path. It's not a very easy path, even if it is the path of life. It is possible with God's help to complete this journey of discipleship and follow that path that God has set for us.

But it needs the training of an athlete, and it needs nourishment and strength from God along that way. What this is saying is you will not be strong enough. You will certainly not be resilient enough and nourished enough unless you take the support and nourishment that God asks you and offers you.

This is our task as well as God's gift. Our Lord said a similar thing to his apostles when he was teaching them. Pray, fast, stay watchful or you will come into the time of trial.

Even they didn't fully listen to him and some of them stumbled badly. But our Lord helped them back up again. Even the night before Jesus died, he said, pray that you may be given the strength to face this trial.

But they fell asleep and didn't take his advice. If we think we can be effective disciples of Jesus who do what Jesus wants and not merely what we might want and if we think we can do the task of discipleship that Jesus has set, each and every one of us, without making use of the nourishment that Jesus gives us, we're kidding ourselves. The nourishment our Lord gives us is regular Eucharist and regular nourishment and challenge from listening to God's living word in the scriptures.

This is the nourishment we need to take, that we have regular prayer life too, both in the community and also privately. Both are essential. Private prayer, public worship, lest one or the other become stagnant and cut off from the wider picture.

The food we need to take, lest the journey will certainly be too arduous for us, is the support and challenge of the community of faith and also the nourishment from Christ's word and sacrament and also the nourishment and example of his values, personality and actions. The second reading from Saint Paul to the Ephesians is very special. It really encourages us to become a people who've been transformed as disciples of Christ, in our actions, attitudes, as well as in name.

The quality of our discipleship will show itself in the way we act, Saint Paul encourages his community. Never have grudges against each other. Don't lose your temper or raise your voice to anybody.

Don't call other people names or allow any sort of spitefulness. Be friends with one another and kind, forgiving each other as readily as God forgives us in Christ. Try then to imitate God as children of his that he loves and follow Christ by loving as he loved you, by giving himself up in our place.

That's that beautiful passage from Ephesians 4, 30 to chapter 5, verse 2. What a wonderful life-giving community we are called into. And it is attained not by sheer willpower and determination, but rather regular nourishment and refreshment from God's grace. We drink from God's fountain.

That's found and given to us in the sacraments and in God's word. This allows God's grace to grow deep within our hearts and also has the wonderful added and important effect of crowding out anything that is not consistent with his gospel.
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 1275986371 - Vienna, Austria, 2016/11/26. The icon of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ in Saint Hripsime Church (Armenian Apostolic Church). -Important information. Editorial Use Only. - Photo Contributor: 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  
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Nineteenth Sunday of the Year B
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (or/ The Lord be with You)
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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

Save us, Saviour of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.

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Sundays Ordinary II

Various Needs and Occasions I

Communion side. pwk: LH
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Go forth, the Mass is ended.

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You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by visting here:
https://surfersparadiseparish.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=85b9ddd594b242276d423bfe9&id=002282d9e0 

Details 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 (1942-2017) - 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: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser. And (2024+) Rode Nt-1 + AI-1 Sound Mixer.

Editing equipment:    -- MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software v10.49 (NCH Software).

NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 17.63 (NCH Software)

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 10 Audio Editor (Izotope Inc.)

[Production -  KER -  2024]

May God bless and keep you.
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Saint Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) (Solemnity in Australia) - Sunday, August 8, 2024 (EPISODE: 490B - Special)

Saint Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) (weekday -Solemnity in Australia) - August 8, 2024

(EPISODE: 490B - Special)

Saint Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) (Solemnity in Australia) - August 8, 2024 (EPISODE: 490B - Special)

Readings for Saint Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) (Solemnity in Australia)
FIRST READING: 1 Kings 17: 8-16
Psalm 62: 1-8. "My soul clings to you; your right-hand holds me fast."
SECOND READING: Colossians 3: 12-17
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Mt 27: 55). Alleluia, Alleluia. Many women were there by the cross, watching from a distance, the same women who had followed Jesus and looked after him, Alleluia.
GOSPEL: Matthew 6: 25-34

Image Credit: Image Credit: Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, - Paint and Tapestry Artwork (c.2009-10) by Mr. Terence Michael (Terry) Lynch, (d. 12/1/2014). (And the Maryborough Parish ladies- Tapestry located in Saint Mary's Catholic Church, Maryborough, Queensland, where Saint Mary visited and set up a convent and school.
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Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Saint Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) (Solemnity in Australia) -August 8, 2021 by clicking this link here: 

https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/fhl-weekday-solemnity-mary-of-the-cross-mackillop-august-8-australia-ep-490-b  
(EPISODE: 490B - Special)
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* (Prologue: Fr Paul Kelly)
As Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop once wrote:

"Remember we are all but travellers here."
In Australia(solemnity) and New Zealand (feast Day) . . St Mary of the Cross, Mary of the Cross is a national Patron and also Patron of the Brisbane Archdiocese here).

Mary Helen Mackillop, was born in Melbourne (Australia) on 15th January 1842. And entered eternal life in Sydney on this day (8th August) in 1909. Mary took the religious name "Mary of the Cross." Mary responded to the isolation of colonial families by pioneering a new form of religious life to provide education for their children. She and her sisters shared the life of the poor and the itinerant, offering special care to destitute women and children. Remembered for her eagerness to discover God's will in all things, for her charity in the face of lies, and for her abiding trust in God's providence..
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On May 6, 2009, a declaration was received from Pope Benedict XVI, assenting to the then Archbishop John Bathersby's petition that St Mary of the Cross MacKillop be made the patron of Brisbane Archdiocese. Such a declaration was both appropriate and enthusiastically received in the Archdiocese. We have here in Brisbane Archdiocese an historic connection to this remarkable lady, including her formation of four of her order's very first schools here in Queensland.

 

In December 1869, Mary MacKillop and five of her sisters of St Joseph came to Brisbane and rented a house in South Brisbane. During 1870, they opened three schools for the poorer children in Brisbane and one in Maryborough. Mary and her companions attended Mass at St Stephen's Church in Elizabeth Street and often prayed there before the Blessed Sacrament.

 

Born in Melbourne in 1842 and inflamed by a deep desire to serve God and help alleviate the plight of the poor, Mary was an ordinary person who lived an extraordinary and holy life. Her motto is, never see a need without doing something about it and this continues to call us forth to action today. At a time when real heroes are in short supply, St Mary of the Cross MacKillop is a true inspiration.

 

Her heroism is all the more firm because it's built not on celebrity or sporting skill, but on her love of Jesus Christ and a life of dedication to God and her fellow human beings, especially people most in need. Speaking at the time of the announcement, Sister Moira Campbell RSJ, the sisters of St Joseph Provincial Leader at the time, said the order were especially delighted to see their founder made patron in the year of the Archdiocese's then 150th anniversary. And the then 100th anniversary of their founder's death in 2009, the next year Mary MacKillop was canonised in 2010.

 

Sister Campbell said the honour was truly a recognition of the greatness of this woman and her enduring contribution to the early life of Australia. She's an inspirational woman. Among her many qualities was her ability to inspire hope in those she met, she said.

 

Such hope is a very important quality to seek out in today's world as well. Today's readings for the Saints' Feast of Mary of the Cross MacKillop are very fitting. In the first reading we have the prophet coming across a lady from Zarephath and her baby in a time of great famine.

 

They were all starving. But that woman put trust in the promises of the prophet, and all of them were rewarded in very difficult circumstances. This enormous leap of faith produced enormous fruits.

 

We're right to trust in the providence and care of God. Come what may, if we don't let limitations stop us, and we continue to push forward in what is needed and what is good, wonderful things will result with God's grace. The gospel reminds us not to be bogged down with worry about things.

 

Of course these things like what we shall eat and what we shall wear are things that occupy our time, but Jesus is calling us to trust in God's providence and not stop us from achieving what with God's grace will be profoundly fruitful.

 

Mary of the Cross MacKillop,

Pray for us.

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References:

Homily - Fr Paul W. Kelly

With many thanks to the Archdiocese of Brisbane Website on Saint Mary of the Cross – Archdiocesan Patron Saint -  https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/about/archdiocesan-patron/#:~:text=St%20Mary%20of%20the%20Cross%20MacKillop%27s%20motto%20of%20%27never%20see,call%20us%20forth%20to%20action

Image Credit: Image Credit: Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, - Paint and Tapestry Artwork (c.2009-10) by Mr. Terence Michael (Terry) Lynch, (8/5/1932-12/1/2014). (And the Maryborough Parish ladies- Tapestry located in Saint Mary's Catholic Church, Maryborough, Queensland, where Saint Mary visited and set up a convent and school.

Saint Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) (Solemnity in Australia) (August 8)

(Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 

(or/ The Lord be with You)
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{{Hi}} welcome everyone, we gather - Praise, Worship of God

My brothers and sisters, trusting in Gods mercy and love let us call to mind our sins.

Lord jesus, you are god who gives generously to all. Lord, have mercy

You are our sure helper in time of need. Christ, have mercy.

You are are loving and faithful to your people to the end of time. 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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Psalm 62: 1-8. "My soul clings to you; your right hand holds me fast."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Mt 27: 55). Alleluia, Alleluia. Many women were there by the cross, watching from a distance, the same women who had followed Jesus and looked after him, Alleluia.
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PREFACE: Preface I or II of saints
Various Occasions 1
(theme variation: 1 )

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{Many thanks for participating in this time of praise, worship and reflection upon our God's infinite love.}

Go forth, the Mass is ended.

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

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 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.

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

Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly.
Microphones: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser.

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 - 2024]

May God bless and keep you.

 

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 4 August 2024 (EPISODE: 490)

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 4 August 2024 (EPISODE: 490)

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty - Photo Description - Stock Photo ID: 156967370 - ancient byzantine fresco of Jesus giving communion to Saint Peter. at the church of Saint Nicholas, Demre, Southern Turkey - Photo Contributor - mountainpix
 
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 4 August 2024
(EPISODE: 490)
Readings for Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B
FIRST READING: Exod 16: 2-4, 12-15
Ps 78: 3-4, 23-24, 25+54. "The Lord gave them bread from heaven. "
SECOND READING: Eph 4: 17, 20-24
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Matt 4: 4b). Alleluia, alleluia! No one lives on bread alone. But on every word that comes from the mouth of God.
GOSPEL: John 6: 24-35

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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 4 August 2024, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-18th-sunday-ordinary-time-year-b-episode-490/s-ZARaMDqjcfA  
(EPISODE: 490)
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* (Prologue: Fr Paul Kelly)
In the readings, the Lord has given us abundant gifts and blessings. God knows what we need and aims to give us what we need. The People of Israel, wandering in the desert with Moses, become disgruntled and lose hope. God tells them they must never stop trusting in his goodness and providence. On that same subject, do you know what big sign Pope Francis placed on his front door? It is wonderful. I will tell you later.
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*(Homily: Fr Paul Kelly).
In the first reading, and subtly referred to in the Gospel as well, we see the dangerous currents created by God's people falling into a culture of negativity and complaint and forgetting the blessings that they've already received. They prefer to count the bad things and forget and cherish the good things that they have received, and are continuing to receive. They forget, or they refuse to call to mind, many things that are good, and which would well outweigh the bad.

The experience of the people of Israel stands as a cautionary example for every generation who follow them. We have to be wary of a culture of complaining and grumbling, refusing to be satisfied by what we have. And then, when we do receive something, as wonderful as it is, it's never quite enough.

Then there's the situation in the Gospel, where the people start demanding things from God with a sense of entitlement instead of a grateful, remembering, and humble heart. We can also be tempted to start demanding that God give us what we want, exactly as we demand it to be given and in the timescale we expect. In response to the Israelites' demands, God gives them bread from heaven, a fine dewfall of bread, as much as they can eat.

But more amazingly, they can eat all they want, but they cannot store it away. They must trust in God's providence day by day. That's an excellent attitude for us to cherish in our hearts as well.

The second reading echoes this. God's graciousness and generosity is never stingy. It's more than enough.

It's never half-hearted. God provides for us in surprising and unexpected ways, ways that may not be what we had in mind when we expressed our needs. Pope Francis always has a very relatable and wonderful turn of phrase in many things, and he's spoken about the dangers of excessive complaining.

And he's talked about this many times, including very early in his pontificate, where he said that Christians who complain too much or are melancholic have more in common with pickled peppers than the joy of having a beautiful life. He broached the subject again a year later during his morning daily mass in Santa Marta. The Pope warned that when we're at prayer, we ought to avoid exaggerating difficulties compared to those undergoing major tragedies.

Our life is too easy. Our life is too easy, the Pope said at the time. Faced with the complaints of so many people, of so many brothers and sisters who are in the dark, who have lost all memory, almost lost all hope, who are exiled even from themselves, our complaints are nothing.

Bringing to mind the many who have lost everything or live in exile, the Pope explained that Jesus walked this path from sunset on the Mount of Olives to the last word on the cross. Pope Francis gives two suggestions that can help us in moments of darkness, the first being to prepare ourselves for when the darkness comes. Our Lord warned us to keep praying that we will have the strength to face the trials that will come to us all.

Secondly, we should pray. Pray as the Church prays. Pray with the Church for so many brothers and sisters who suffer exile from themselves, who are in darkness and suffering, without hope at hand.

He said this is the prayer of the Church for these suffering Jesuses who are everywhere. Pope Francis put up a new sign on his door a few years back, in his humble rooms at the residence at Domus Santa Marta, where he's lived since the beginning of his pontificate. The sign on the door says, complaining not allowed, in Italian, Vietato Lamentasi, and then in smaller print, a red warning on the sign defines this as the first law in the protection of one's health and well-being.

The sign also warns transgressors, saying they're subject to developing a victim complex, with the subsequent diminution of their sense of humour and problem-solving ability. Complaining in the presence of children, the sign warns, would lead to a double sanction. The recent addition to Pope Francis' door closes on a more upbeat note, advising readers that to become the best of yourself, you must concentrate on your own potential and not on your limits.

Therefore, stop complaining and act to make your life better. The sign was produced by an Italian psychologist and psychotherapist, Salvo Noe, who gave it to the Pope after a June 14th weekly audience a few years back. Noe specialises in psychology in work environments and gives well-being lectures to universities, security forces and companies.

Pope Francis also said that complaining too often can distance us from Jesus. The Pope says, moaning dashes hope. Moaning and complaining can become a habit.

Complaining frequently can become an obsession that obscures Jesus's presence in difficult situations. Complaining and griping about others and things in one's own life is harmful because it dashes hope. Don't get into this game of a life of complaints, he says.

Inspired by God's word and God's providence and goodness, let us all walk with God in trust, humility and patience and with gratitude. Let's continue to be people who are positive, constructive, prepared and, come what may, filled with faith, hope and love.

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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly
 
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2017/07/14/pope-franciss-door-now-features-complaining-not-allowed-sign/
 
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/news/2013/04/04/complaining-too-often-can-distance-us-from-jesus-warns-pope-francis/
 
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-francis-dont-overdramatize-your-complaints-to-god-30403


Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B (Sunday, 4 August 2024) (EPISODE: 490  )
The Lord be with you.
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{{Hello}} welcome everyone, we gather - Silence, reflection, prayer and contemplation of our God.

My friends in Christ, to worthily celebrate the sacred mysteries, let us first acknowledge our sins. 

sung (or 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
3. Save us, Saviour of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.
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Ps 78: 3-4, 23-24, 25+54. "The Lord gave them bread from heaven. "

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Matt 4: 4b). Alleluia, alleluia! No one lives on bread alone. But on every word that comes from the mouth of God.
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PREFACE: Sundays V
EP II
(theme variation: 4 )

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{thank you for your company as we have given thanks and praise to our God. }

Go in peace. (glorifying the Lord by your life)

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

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 (Bill) Kelly (1942-2017) - 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.
Microphone: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser.
 
v Editing equipment: NCH Software - MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software
 
v NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 12.44
 
v Sound Processing: iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

 [Production - KER - 2024]

May God bless and keep you.

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.Year B - Sunday, 28 July 2024 (EPISODE: 489)

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.Year B - Sunday, 28 July 2024 (EPISODE: 489)

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 42044212- Miracle attributed to Jesus, The Feeding of the five thousand people. Photo Contributor- Zvonimir Atletic.
Readings for Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B
FIRST READING: 2 Kgs 4: 42-44. Twenty loaves
Ps 145: 10-11, 15-16, 17-18. "The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs. "
SECOND READING: Eph 4: 1-6. Preserve unity
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 7: 16). Alleluia, alleluia! A great prophet has appeared among us. God has visited his people.
GOSPEL: John 6: 1-15. Five loaves
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 28 July 2024, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-17th-sunday-ordinary-time-year-b-episode-489/s-ljdULIJka3V  
(EPISODE: 489)
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* (Prologue: Fr Paul Kelly)
Love, gentleness and dignity is at the heart of everything Our Lord did and taught.
The miracle with the loaves and the fishes is amazing enough. But HOW he distributes the miraculous loaves and fishes is also PROFOUNDLY important. Our Lord could have had this huge and plentiful supply given out by saying something like: "Okay everyone, line up!! We will hand this out." That is to say, Our Lord could have insisted on handing out the bread and fish like the recipients were just beggars, recipients of charity…. People who merely grab and clutch the food. But no!! Our Lord respects each person's dignity. He asks that everyone sits down, in groups…. In little community groups. The food is brought to the people, and they eat it as equals and with all dignity. Truly a second miracle has occurred…..an equally needed miracle. Yes, we have people who are in physical need; and we also have people in our society who are crying out for a sense of dignity, for equality and who do not want to be treated just like a number. People still cry out for human and respectful interaction and an experience of a real and nurturing community.

Our Lord gives us both nourishment and dignity and asks us to do the same.
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(Homily): "Bread with Dignity"

This weekend's first reading and gospel are closely connected. They speak of God's compassionate feeding of the people in their time of need. It's also a reminder of God's desire for us to offer our gifts, our resources, and talents to others for the good of all.

We offer these gifts to God through our care for each other. The gifts we have, we're given to share. We're very mindful of the many areas in the world where there are huge numbers of people who don't even have enough of the basics of life.

Food, water, shelter, health care, education, safety or even freedom. We're inspired to work to help those people through the caring help of missionaries and charitable groups who meet those essential needs. And the ideal is those groups who follow the example of Christ and meet people on the ground in their own situations.

In the gospel, it's been noted that our Lord is very careful to make it clear that his actions in feeding the crowd are not meant to be any kind of show of power or wonder. These acts were not intended to win him popularity. In fact, our Lord shuns popularity and swiftly leaves the scene after this extraordinary event in order to prevent the popular enthusiasm of the crowd from rising up and to avoid the unsavoury situation of people trying to make him an earthly king.

That's not what he wanted. Our Lord's actions are motivated only by compassion and for concern for the real needs of his people. Real practical needs.

And he calls on his disciples, that's us too, to do everything we can to use our resources that we have available to be real food for the hungry and help for those most in need. It's so reassuring to remember that God is the one who gives us what we need in due season. God has our concerns in his heart.

It's God who works to give us what we need, and he calls upon others to assist in the meeting of real human needs of others. When we're tempted to lose hope or to question, then the words of the scriptures remind us that God is completely faithful and desires that we are fed. God is generous, but God does not want us to waste this generosity, even a crumb of the graces and blessings he gives us.

We should use them for the benefit of others. Our Lord calls us to give and keep giving without counting the cost, without the expectation of return. Our Lord promises to transform this heartfelt but humble offering of ours into many things of rich grace.

There's a beautiful reflection attributed to Saint Teresa of Kolkata, which I think was actually written by a man named Kent M Keith and published in a 1968 college pamphlet. However, a copy of this reflection was kept on the wall in Mother Teresa's children's home. It goes like this.

"People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centred.
Forgive them anyway.

If you're kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.

If you're honest and sincere, people may deceive you.
Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others may destroy overnight.
Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today will often be forgotten.
Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it may never be enough.
Give your best anyway."

The gospel does not make judgment or self-justification into the common bond between us, but rather God makes love and goodwill, generosity of spirit, as the true bond that unites us all. We love our neighbour precisely because God's presence is in everyone around us, whether the others recognize it in return or whether or not they recognize the beauty of God's indwelling spirit in themselves or in their own actions. The second reading has Saint Paul imploring us, pleading with us, live a life worthy of your vocation in humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love.

I think it's fair to say that Saint Paul would not have had to need to plead with us to bear with each other if it was already an easy thing to do. It's not easy to follow the way of our Lord. It doesn't always come naturally to bear with one another in patience and love, even if it's what we're made for and destined for, because we are called to live in communion with God and allow God to transform our humanity into the shining image of God's divine life and values, and that's something divine that comes from God's grace.

Love, gentleness and dignity are at the heart of everything our Lord does. Our Lord respects each and every person's dignity, and that's shown in the miracle of the loaves and too. He asks that everyone sits down in groups, in little communities.

The food is brought to the people, and they eat it as equals with great dignity. It's not just handed out as if the recipients were mere beggars. No one wants to be treated just like a number.

Many people are crying out for human and respectful interactions and experiences of real and nurturing community. Our Lord gives us both nourishment and dignity. Jesus never stops at half measures.
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References:
 
Fr Paul W. Kelly

Kent M. Keith. "The Paradoxical Commandments: Finding Personal Meaning in a Crazy World." October 25, 2001." (ISBN-10: 1930722052).

+ Some ideas are taken from Gustavo Gutierrez, "sharing the word through the liturgical year."

Abbotts Homily, Monastery of Christ in the Desert
 
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 42044212- Miracle attributed to Jesus, The Feeding of the five thousand people. Photo Contributor- Zvonimir Atletic.

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B (Sunday, July 25, 2021)
(EPISODE: 489 )
The grace of our Lord Our Lord Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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{{May Our Lord's generosity inspire you. }} welcome everyone, we gather - To Pray, listen and reflect upon God and God's Kingdom.

Coming together as Gods family, let us call to mind our sins.

Lord Jesus, you healed the sick: Lord, have mercy//You forgave sinners: Christ, have mercy//You give us yourself to heal us and bring us strength: 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
2. When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord until you come again.
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Ps 145: 10-11, 15-16, 17-18. "The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs. "

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 7: 16). Alleluia, alleluia! A great prophet has appeared among us. God has visited his people.
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EP IV (with own preface)
(theme variation: 3 )

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{Thanks for joining us for this time of prayer and reflection}

Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.

++++++++
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

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 (Bill) Kelly (1942-2017) - 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.
Microphone: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser.
 
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 - 2024]

May God bless and keep you.
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