Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Second Sunday Ordinary Time. Year C - Sunday, 19 January 2025 (EPISODE: 514)

Second Sunday Ordinary Time. Year C - Sunday, 19 January 2025 (EPISODE: 514)

mage Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/OQi4BGzXAZyYtK2REs2f?ru=Paul-Evangelion 



GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND

Homily: Second Sunday in Ordinary Time.Year C - Sunday, 19 January 2025

(EPISODE: 514)

 

Readings for Sunday, 19 January 2025 - Second Sunday Ordinary Time. Year C
FIRST READING:
Isaiah 62:1-5
Psalm 96:1-2, 3-4, 7-8, 9-10ac. "Proclaim his marvellous deeds to all the nations."
SECOND READING:
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:14). Alleluia, alleluia! God has called us with the Gospel, to share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
GOSPEL:
John 2:1-12
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily) for Second Sunday Ordinary Time. Year C - Sunday, 19 January 2025, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-second/s-TP6gPwtSo8d  (EPISODE: 514)
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(Fr Paul Kelly)


Christ's ministry was an extensive one. His mission was all-encompassing. Its final focus would be nothing less than the fulfilment of his mission through something he described as his great ultimate hour or time.

 

This hour or time would be when he, as the sacrificial lamb of God, would offer his very self for the life of the world. Christ's great message to us is that God leaves the best for last. And the good news is that at the very last, God will be utterly faithful to us and fulfil all his promises to us.

 

Everything about God and Christ's earthly life and mission, his suffering, his death, and his resurrection, is top shelf. There are no half measures with God, shown by Jesus's life. No half-baked quality here, but the best of everything for us.

 

At the very outset of his public ministry, Mary, his beloved mother, asks our Lord to help a wedding couple in a terrible situation. They're in a socially embarrassing situation at their wedding reception. Christ turns this simple act of kindness into a sign of the kingdom and a sign of the meaning of his whole ministry, which is to provide the best wine of mercy, compassion, inclusion, charity and heartfelt invitation into the banquet feast of the kingdom of God.

 

He is surely asking this question of his mother in an ironic way when he says, why turn to me? My hour has not yet come to provide the best wine of the wedding feast of the kingdom of God, where I will be bridegroom and the people of God will be the bride. Of course, he immediately helps and uses this incident as a foretaste of what is to come, and what a beautiful foretaste it is. If this is just a sample of the kingdom of God, then our minds are truly blown.

 

We're astounded, and so we should be, with this richness, this graciousness, this absolute non-stinginess that God operates out of all the time. This is what we're invited into. This is what we're invited to become more and more in our own lives and actions too.

 

This gospel would have to be one of the most delightful and profound passages, and it has so many levels and is rich in symbolism. You can tell from the subtle difference between what is said and what is done, that the translation of this particular incident is complicated, and our traditional translations don't quite capture the full picture of what's going on here. But we can still guess at it, if we could have seen the faces of Jesus and Mary as they spoke, and if we could have observed their body language and the tone of their voice, I am sure the true meaning would be even clearer.

 

But the clarity is still there. To expand on the situation, this is probably a more accurate picture of what was going on. Mary turned to Jesus and said, they've run out of wine.

 

Now this situation would be intolerable and utter humiliation to this humble village wedding couple and their families, and a terrible failure of strong traditions of hospitality expected in that time and culture. Mary was clearly feeling for the terrible shame that would have occurred for this poor family. It would have ongoing repercussions for this humble bride and groom at the very start of their lives as a family.

 

Perhaps they could not afford the sufficient amount of wine required. If we could see Jesus' reaction, it would reveal much. Perhaps better still, this can be more effectively rendered as, my lady, is this the time when I will pour forth the new wine of the kingdom? Surely it's not that time.

 

He's being ironic and speaking as a prophet. Jesus knows that he's come into the world to usher in the fullness of the kingdom, to pour forth the wine, the new wine of the covenant, sealed in his own blood, poured forth as a ransom for all. He knew that that new wine of the kingdom would only come in its fullness when he had suffered, died and rose again.

 

I think he would have had a twinkle in his eye and perhaps also a tear in his eye as he noted that this was all ahead of him. It was all yet to come. It would mean his complete self-sacrifice, an utterly generous offering of absolutely all of himself, the absolute completeness of God's gracious love for us.

 

However, this moment at the wedding would be a little forerunner and sign of the true wine of the kingdom, which is about God's utter faithfulness, God's graciousness and mercy, God's overflowing and immeasurable generosity and kindness, particularly to people who are in a bind. This action is a wonderful sign of God's kingdom of joy, justice and inclusion. The Virgin Mary knew he was going to do something about this situation, for he is graciousness and compassion personified.

 

Mary trusted in him totally. Our Lady also surely knew that he was going to do greater things in the future, of which this example was only a rich and stunning foretaste. We know that John the Baptist had been preaching the imminent coming of the Messiah.

 

John the Baptist had actually warned of a time of God's judgment and retribution, of fearful punishment of sins. This wedding miracle, however makes it quite clear that the Messiah will come not with a big stick of judgment but with graciousness, mercy, generosity, compassion, kindness and the joy of a time of great jubilee and celebration. Jesus the Messiah would characterise the kingdom of God as a messianic banquet feast, rather than an apocalyptic time of punishment, judgment, and retribution.

 

Perhaps Jesus' reply to Mary, remembering that he was still in the very early days of his ministry, also indicated, so is this how it's to be? Not fasting, austerity, punishment and severity, but the overflowing generosity and joy of God's time of favour? So be it. Let's see already unfolding the outpouring of God's overwhelming generosity. Let's see.

 

Let us taste it. Fill those stone jars over there and let us see which it is to be. For Jesus trusted totally in his heavenly father and was utterly obedient to the father's will, as Mary would certainly have known when she asked the question of Jesus and when she instructed the attendants to do everything he tells you.

 

Instructions kept to the letter. There's something else too. This is a profound miracle and a beautiful sign.

 

It's a reminder of God's blessing of marriage, the gracious generosity of God's love for us and his joining with us in the joyful and sacred moments of our lives. What a wonderful miracle to reveal God sitting amongst us and enjoying and blessing marriage and times of joy. Why did Jesus not reserve this amazing sign for a more so-called important event, like a dinner where Herod was present or where Pontius Pilate was there to be convinced beyond doubt of Jesus' credentials? But of course we know the answer to that.

 

That's not God's ways. That would be human thinking. God deliberately chose a humble family wedding in a small and poor village to show the utter faithfulness of God's glory and graciousness.

 

God's message is for the poor. God's kingdom is found in the everyday in the ordinary and the humble shall inherit the kingdom. It's also for the ordinary people that Jesus came to bring the good news, just as much for those high and mighty.

 

It also says something really important about the ordinary everyday events of our home life, our work life and our social life. God's kingdom is to be encountered just as much in the everyday and ordinary events of life as in the occasional and extraordinary events that can occur as well. This wedding feast miracle brought God right down into the home, into the home circle, into the ordinary things of life.

 

Jesus' action at Cana of Galilee shows what he really thought of the home. God manifested his glory and that showing of his true glory took place within a home. To him, home was a place where nothing but the best was good enough.

 

It was where he put his best foot forward. We've already seen that hospitality was always a sacred duty in the East. It would have brought unspeakable embarrassment and shame to that home that day if the wine had run out.

 

It was to save a humble Galilean family from hurt that Jesus put forth his power that day. It was in sympathy, in kindness, in understanding for ordinary humble folk that Jesus always acted.


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References:

Homily by Fr Paul W. Kelly

THE GOSPEL OF JOHN. Volume 1, (Chapters 1 to 7). REVISED EDITION. Translated with an Introduction and Interpretation, by WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE WESTMINSTER PRESS, PHILADELPHIA. 1975.

Image Credit:   https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/OQi4BGzXAZyYtK2REs2f?ru=Paul-Evangelion

Second Sunday Ordinary Time. Year C  (Sunday, 19 January 2025)
(EPISODE: 514))
The Lord be with you.
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{{Kindness and grace to you all}}

As one family in Christ, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries by calling to mind our sins.
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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Psalm 96:1-2, 3-4, 7-8, 9-10ac. "Proclaim his marvellous deeds to all the nations."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:14).
Alleluia, alleluia! God has called us with the Gospel, to share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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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PREFACE: Sundays I
EP II
Communion side.  pwk:  LH
(theme variation: v7 )
(pre+post variation: v1-long)
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{I gratefully acknowledge and give thanks to God for your prayers at this time of prayer and reflection upon 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 the 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 Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

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

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

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -     Shure MV5-USB

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 -  2025]
May God bless and keep you.
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Shorter version:

 

Christ's ministry was extensive and all-encompassing, ultimately focused on fulfilling his mission during what he described as his great ultimate "hour." This "hour" would culminate when Jesus, as the sacrificial lamb of God, would offer himself for the life of the world. His message is that God leaves the best for last, and at the end, God will be utterly faithful and fulfill all his promises.

 

Everything about God and Christ's life—his suffering, death, and resurrection—is of the highest quality. There are no half measures with God, demonstrated by Jesus's life.

 

At the outset of his public ministry, Mary, his beloved mother, asks Jesus to help a wedding couple in distress. He turns this simple act of kindness into a sign of the kingdom, illustrating his mission to provide the finest wine of mercy, compassion, and inclusion at the banquet feast of God's kingdom.

 

When Jesus asks Mary why she should turn to him, about this matter, he adds that his "hour has not yet come," he does so ironically. However, he immediately responds and transforms the situation into a beautiful foretaste of what is to come. If this is just a sample of the kingdom of God, we are astounded by the richness and generosity that God offers.

 

This gospel passage is delightful and profound, and rich in symbolism. The interaction between Jesus and Mary reveals layers that traditional translations may not capture fully. Mary approaches Jesus, expressing concern that the wedding has run out of wine, an intolerable situation in the society and culture of that time and place, and which bring humiliation to the couple and their families.

 

Perhaps Jesus's response can be interpreted as, "Is this the time for the new wine of the kingdom?" He knows that the fullness of the kingdom will only come through his suffering, death, and resurrection. Yet, this wedding moment serves as a foretaste of God's faithfulness and generosity, particularly to those in need.

 

Mary trusted in Jesus completely, knowing he would do greater things in the future.

 

John the Baptist preached about the coming of the Messiah, warning of judgment, but this wedding miracle clarifies that the Messiah comes with mercy, compassion, and joy, characterizing the kingdom of God as a messianic wedding banquet rather than a time of punishment and hardship.

 

Jesus's reply to Mary indicates that his ministry would be marked by overflowing generosity, compassion and joy. He trusted in his heavenly Father and was obedient to the Father's will, just as Mary iis completely faithful and trusting to Jesus. Mary instructs the attendants to "do everything he tells" them.

 

This miracle is a profound sign of God's blessing of marriage and God's real  presence in our joyful moments in life. Jesus chose a humble village wedding to reveal God's faithfulness and graciousness, showing that God's message is for the poor and ordinary people as well as the high and mighty. (wouldn't this moment have had more profound effect if this miracle had occurred in the middle of a public feast held by, for example, King Herod?  ,But no, that is earthly thinking and resorting to spectacles to convince worldly people), that is not the way of Christ, nor the way of the Kingdom)

 

This miracle demonstrates that God's kingdom can be encountered in everyday life, not just in extraordinary events. Jesus's action at Cana shows the importance of home and hospitality, revealing God's glory in ordinary settings. He acted out of kindness and understanding for humble folk, saving a family from embarrassment and showcasing the true nature and depth of God's love.

Wednesday, January 08, 2025

Mass - Baptism of the Lord - Year C - Sunday, 12 January 2025

Mass - Baptism of the Lord - Year C - Sunday, 12 January 2025


Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/pDMlAHLRvoMCYn9loxYF/the-holy-spirit-descended-on-him-in-bodily-form-like-a-dove-and-a-voice-came-from-heaven-you-are-my-?ru=Paul-Evangelion 

Readings for Sunday 12th January 2025 - The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time)
FIRST READING: Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11
Psalm 104:1b-2, 3-4, 24-25, 27+28, 29-30. "Oh, bless the Lord, my soul!"
SECOND READING: Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 3:16). Alleluia, alleluia! John said: He who is to come is mightier than I. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
GOSPEL: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time) - Sunday 12th January 2025, by clicking this link here:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-3/s-3dnlQQmCyk1  (EPISODE: 513)

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In Luke's Gospel, the voice of the Father is heard not when Jesus was being Baptised or even when he was arising from the waters, but afterwards, when Jesus is praying.
 
In fact, in Luke's Gospel, this happens at key moments when the true identity of Christ is revealed, that Jesus is shown to be praying!  
 
We witness it here in today's Gospel, as he prays after his baptism and again at the Transfiguration, and later, even the Apostles, too, receive the Holy Spirit when gathered in prayer at Pentecost.  
 
In prayer, Christ's identity is revealed as the Father's beloved son. For us, his disciples, prayer renews and connects us to God, is an affirmation (and renewal) of our baptismal identity  (as children of God), and strengthens us to undertake our ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit.^ 
 
One Scripture commentator says that in relation to this Gospel today,  "We are told that God rends the heavens to lavish praise on his son— a son who, up to that point, had yet to accomplish much of anything." It must have been indescribably affirming and motivating for Jesus as he was about to begin his most challenging and self-emptying ministry.
 
Of course, Jesus is God, and he was also fully human. As a human he was as much in need of encouragement, affirmation and strength from his beloved Father in heaven. This Father also is the father of all things…..
 
Jesus was now officially commissioned in his earthly ministry (by none less than God the Heavenly Father)/ Commissioned for this incredibly difficult ministry, and Our Lord was absolutely assured of the love and confidence of his Father….and could begin his ministry confident that the Father was completely pleased with him and 100% behind what he was doing." (Patrice J. Tuohy). 
 
It is a timely reminder that sincere and constructive affirmation and encouragement are essential human needs. We live in a culture where it seems easier to voice criticisms. For far too many people, if they are not happy with something, criticism occurs swiftly, but if they are not unhappy with something, it is not so much praise that follows but rather deafening silence. We live in a world where there is too often either criticism or silence.  People who live without affirmation or who live with constant criticism, they can easily get the message that nothing they do is ever going to be good enough. However, there is a difference between true affirmation and mere compliments. A compliment can be a pleasant thing to say (sometimes a compliment is not even remotely accurate, but it is something nice that another person might say, just to be 'pleasant'). In contrast, a true affirmation actually confirms the truth as seen and experienced by another. Affirmation and constructive criticism is far better than untrue compliments and a world away from undermining negativity. 
 
 
False praise is also very unhelpful. A person who relies on praise that is not based in reality is misled and denied the chance to hone their skills. The person can be quite deceived about how they are really doing or how they may actually be affecting others; for the better or worse. And then there are those who get good, positive feedback and affirmation. This is priceless and truly affirming. Even when setbacks and the occasional mistake or failure come their way, the person who has healthy feedback and honest affirmation and information, can develop resilience, and is not defeated, because they have firm foundations for their belief in their abilities and their inner value and the strength of their own worth. A person who receives this constructive affirmation and even constructive and sensitive criticism will persevere through many struggles and challenges to increase in excellence. 
 
Our Baptism is intended to be a formal and real adoption into God's family and a true affirmation of our dignity as beloved children of God. God thirsts to give this to each and every person in the world for they are all his cherished children. Baptism has a real, permanent and practical effect on our lives.  Our baptism, echoing Jesus' action in the Jordan, is a huge "Yes" by us and even more importantly - it follows a profound YES by God towards us. We are saying "yes!" - we too want to share Christ's life. Yes, we wish to truly immerse ourselves in the values and 'movement towards God' that Christ's Good News embodies. We want to be united with Jesus who is utterly committed to the establishment of God's loving, just and merciful Kingdom in all its fullness. And we too, are aware of the necessity of the Cross, which is the unavoidable cost of that commitment. There is always going to be a worthwhile cost and the reality of suffering in any love that serves and gives completely. Love that suffers, and actions that give completely of self, are founded firmly in Christ.  Baptism into Jesus is an infinitely more profound action than what was done by people such as John and his disciples. Although a powerful forerunner to Christ's action, John's baptism was a sign of conversion to, and commitment to God's Kingdom, and also, for almost everyone requesting it, a powerful sign of their repentance of sin. These baptisms were powerful but symbolic. They were repeatable. But Baptism into Jesus that we receive, is once and for all. It is a true and effective grafting into the life of Christ, the life of God. 
 
Jesus made holy the waters of baptism, by investing this beautiful action with himself and pouring into the water everything He stands is and everything for which he stands.
 
Let us ask Our Lord to keep us committed to his vision of the Kingdom in all ways and at all times, in thought, word and deed.  
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References:

Homily by Fr Paul W. Kelly

The New Community Bible. 2012. Strathfield, N.S.W.: St. Pauls.  ^

Liturgia Commentary.  Baptism of the Lord Year C.  Liturgy Brisbane. © Copyright Liturgy Brisbane 2018;

THE DAILY STUDY BIBLE. GOSPEL OF LUKE. (REVISED EDITION). BY WILLIAM BARCLAY;

SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ; 

2010 – A BOOK OF GRACE-FILLED DAYS. BY Alice Camille;

PATRICE J. TUOHY, PrepareTheWord.com, 2008, TrueQuest  Communications, LLC

Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/pDMlAHLRvoMCYn9loxYF/the-holy-spirit-descended-on-him-in-bodily-form-like-a-dove-and-a-voice-came-from-heaven-you-are-my-?ru=Paul-Evangelion

The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time)  (Sunday 12th January 2025)  (EPISODE: 513)

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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{{Peace and Patience to you all}}

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pause and reflect upon our sins to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
Lord Jesus, you healed the sick: Lord, have mercy//Lord Jesus, you forgave sinners: Christ, have mercy//Lord Jesus, 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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Psalm 104:1b-2, 3-4, 24-25, 27+28, 29-30. "Oh, bless the Lord, my soul!"

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 3:16). Alleluia, alleluia! John said: He who is to come is mightier than I. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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PREFACE: Baptism of the Lord
EP I
(theme variation: v6 )
(pre+post variation: v2-long)
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{Many thanks for participating in this time of praise and reflection upon our loving 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 the 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 Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

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

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

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -            Shure MV5 –USB - 

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 -  2025]
May God bless and keep you.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thursday, January 02, 2025

The Epiphany of the Lord. -Year C - Sunday, 5 January 2025 (EPISODE: 512)

The Epiphany of the Lord. -Year C - Sunday, 5 January 2025 (EPISODE: 512)



(Image: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 2075919649- Christmas Nativity scene. Hand drawn background illustration. Vector EPS10.Contributor = lukbar))



Readings for The Epiphany of the Lord.- Year C
FIRST READING: Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13. "Lord, every nation on earth will adore you."
SECOND READING: Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Matthew 2:2). Alleluia, alleluia! We have seen his star in the East; and have come to adore the Lord.
GOSPEL: Matthew 2:1-12

Image: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 2075919649- Christmas Nativity scene. Hand drawn background illustration. Vector EPS10.Contributor = lukbar
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Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for The Epiphany of the Lord. Year C - Sunday, 5 January 2025 - by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-1/s-d14G12q7Aht  
(EPISODE: 512)
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Prologue: On this feast of the Epiphany, we celebrate that God's glory has been revealed to all the nations, and not just the chosen people of Israel. People from every corner of the earth, of every nation and race. Generations of people. God's revelation, God's invitation is for all people of all times and places.
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Saint Paul puts it so nicely:
"God had a secret plan, formed before all ages. And that plan is now revealed, and it is this; in Christ Jesus, the Gentiles, (people from other religious and cultural backgrounds and nations), are now CO-HEIRS with the Chosen people of Israel, members of one and the same body and sharers in the promise of God, through the proclamation of the good news…"

We are one big global human family!

What a treasure these wise men found lying in a manger.... a rare and perfect gift to the world....

The journey of the wise men to find the Holy family and particularly the saviour lying in a manger is our journey too. It is our journey of life as well. It is our religious pilgrimage through life. Our journey to conversion, and beyond, is the same.

There is a beautiful parable about an imaginary fourth wise man, Artaban. He was to go with the other three to search for the newborn king. Artaban had a pouch of precious gems as a gift for the baby king. On his way to join the other three, he stopped to help a needy person. The delay was just enough to cause him to miss the other wise men. He never did catch them; he kept helping people and giving away all his gems. Artaban ended up as a beggar in a faraway city called Jerusalem. One day he saw a criminal being marched off to be executed. He felt close to this man and was sad that he couldn't help him. As the criminal drew near, he turned to Artaban and said, "Be not sad, " you've been helping me all your life. How do I imagine Artaban felt when Jesus said this to him? (parable written by Henry Van Dyke).

"To help the needy is to help me." Matthew 25:40 (paraphrased)

Like Bethlehem, which, at first sight, seems slight and insignificant, and "lesser" – yet, here is where Jesus is born; humble, vulnerable, poor. So too, the poor and the forgotten may appear insignificant to some, but it is through them that the Lord's presence is revealed." (C) the first shall be last, the humble and the powerless have the power and glory of God shining from their hearts…. True greatness is in unmeasured love and service…..

That first Christmas; The Wise Men realised the meaning of this great mystery.. this irony,

and it changed everything. It changes everything for us too.
Come, let us worship!
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References:

Homily - Fr Paul W. Kelly

Mark Link SJ-  quoting Van Dyke, H. (2008) The story of the other wise man. Brewster, Mass: Paraclete Press.

Image: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 2075919649- Christmas Nativity scene. Hand drawn background illustration. Vector EPS10.Contributor = lukbar
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The Epiphany of the Lord. Year C -(Sunday, 5 January 2025) (EPISODE: 512 )
2. 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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{{Shalom (peace)}} welcome everyone, we gather - To offer or praise, prayers and intercessions to our loving God On this The Epiphany of the Lord.

Our Gods love and mercy knows no bounds, and so let us recall our sins so as to worthily celebrate this Holy Sacrifice.
Lord Jesus, you were lifted up to draw all people to yourself: Lord, have mercy You shouldered the cross, to bear our suffering and sinfulness: Christ, have mercy You open for your people the way from death into 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
2. When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
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Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13. "Lord, every nation on earth will adore you."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Matthew 2:2). ). Alleluia, alleluia! We have seen his star in the East; and have come to adore the Lord.
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PREFACE: Epiphany of the Lord
Eucharistic Prayer 2
(theme variation: theme 2 )

(post version: v2-long)

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{6. My heartfelt thanks to you, for your participation in this time of reflection, prayer and praise.}

2. Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.

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

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by 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.)

Text transcription as per recorded podcast version is transcribed by TurboScribe.ai
{excellent and accurate transcription from voice to text}

[Production - KER - 2025]
May God bless and keep you.
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Monday, December 30, 2024

Solemnity of MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD – 1 January 2025

Solemnity of MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD –

1 January 2025


Solemnity of MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD

1 January 2025   (Liturgical colour - White and Gold)



First Reading: Numbers 6:22-27
Psalm: Ps 66:2-3. 5. 6. 8. "May God bless us in his mercy."
Second Reading: Galatians 4:4-7
Gospel Acclamation: Hebrews 1:1-2. Alleluia, alleluia! In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; now he speaks to us through his Son. Alleluia.
Gospel: Luke 2:16-21
Image Credit: ID: 1740958460  - Icon of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus. Canvas, oil. Contributor: Gouache7
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass (readings, prayers and reflections) for the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God. [YEAR ABC]  - January 1, 2025 by clicking this link here:   https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-solemnity/s-wO3xsh0z8Km


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Faith, hope and love, Mass for the First of January –

The Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.  

 

Homily – Fr Paul Kelly 2025.
Another calendar year has begun!  

How these years seem to fly!    


Nevertheless, it is really good at the start of a new year to give thanks for what has been and all that is to come…. We dedicate ourselves and this new year (first and foremost) to God and God's blessed Kingdom.

 

May this new year be filled with countless blessings and graces.

 

We give thanks today to our Lord for so many gifts we receive each and every day, the gift of life, the gift of family, friends, parishioners and our community. We have so much to thank and praise our Lord as we begin a new year of opportunities.

 

We dedicate this new year to the Lord, which is truly, in every sense of the word, the Year of the Lord 2025.

 

May our thoughts, words and efforts all be directed to the Lord's vision of the world and the Kingdom of God. At the very start of a new calendar year, we say to the Lord, all things we've done pleasing to you in the last year, we offer to you in love and gratitude.

 

All things we're about to do that are pleasing to you, we offer it humbly and with love. Anytime we've acted contrary to your will in the past, we are truly sorry, Lord, and ask your mercy and pardon. May we redirect our efforts in your gracious guidance to build up your Kingdom of love and mercy, justice and care.

 

This new year, O Lord, we accept from you as a pure gift. We desire not to waste this precious time, nor take it for granted, but to savour it and make use of it for all that you desire, loving God. We offer you our work and our efforts, recognising this to be a time filled with graced opportunities to praise you and love you and show our love for you by how we treat one another, especially those most in need.

 

An anonymous college student composed a poem that reads: "Today I saw a water lily growing in a pond, (the waterlily was entirely) unconcerned about whether anyone noticed its astounding beauty. As I sat there, watching it unfold its petals noiselessly, I thought of Mary pregnant with Jesus. She, too, was unconcerned about whether anyone noticed her astounding spiritual beauty. But to those who did, she shared a secret. That beauty came not from herself, but from Jesus' life unfolding its noiseless petals within her."

 

Mary allowed the astounding grace and beauty of God to shine through her to such a perfect extent that God became flesh and dwelled among us through her cooperation….   

 

The student's poem invites us to ask: "What is one way I might allow more fully and deeply for Jesus life to unfold within me this year?

 

Another quote comes to mind at the start of this new year….   "Be careful how you live; you may be the only Bible some person ever reads."    W. J. TOMS

 

Mary is the perfect example of perfect discipleship and a being an utterly superb model of faith, joy, humility, a love of justice, a concern for the poor, and complete trust in God. Her life is a perfect living bible – attesting to the glory and Kingship of Christ in all things. What a perfect lady to ask for her intercession to her beloved Son, our Lord Jesus, as we begin this new year. I think of two things particularly that strike me from the readings today.

 

One is the reference which is mentioned a few key times in the Gospel of Luke. Our Lady treasured these things in her heart. She pondered these things.

 

May we treasure everything that happens to us too. Our Lady pondered and treasured everything. When something wonderful happened, she treasured it in her heart.

 

When something confusing or upsetting happened, she pondered it in her heart. When something unexpected or sad occurred, she stored it in her heart also. SO, in everything, meditating on God's Word and reflecting on the mystery of God's faithful plan for the world and for her. Even if it was beyond her understanding, she continued to treasure it and meditate on it.

 

Because Mary, the Mother of God, is our intercessor ands inspiration…  let us meditate as we travel through these coming months….  

"What would our Blessed Mother do in difficult situations? How would she speak both lovingly, honestly, challengingly, constructively and wisely, but always with love and faith? The saints of the Church and the esteemed teachers within the Church throughout history have reflected upon the importance of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

 

Saint Francis de Sales writes, let us run to Mary and as her little children cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence. Saint Jerome says, even while living in this world, the heart of Mary was so filled with motherly tenderness and compassion for men that no one ever suffered so much for their own pains as Mary suffered for the pains of her children. That's beautiful.

 

Saint Thomas Aquinas says, just as seafarers are guided into port by the shining of a star, so Christians are guided to heaven by Mary.

 

The beautiful Saint Therese of Lisieux writes, in trial or difficulty I have recourse to Mother Mary, whose glance alone is enough to dissipate every fear.

 

The world – even moreso over recent years has been suffering dreadful violence, war and injustice, and our hearts break when we think of this. We also think of tragic disasters, natural as well as human-made, and we ask the Blessed Mother of God to pray to her Son on behalf of us for the gift of peace in the world and in the hearts and minds and decisions of people everywhere, including its leaders.

 

As that wonderful Hymn says so beautifully -   "Lord, let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me"  

 

 

Have a blessed and grace-filled year, and we also pray now and throughout this year, ………..

 

Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.

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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

 

Mark Link SJ.  – Vision – Praying Scripture in a contemporary Way.

Image Credit: ID: Image Credit: ID: 1740958460 - Icon of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus. Canvas, oil. Contributor: Gouache7
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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.


  HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!


{{God's kindness, peace and grace to everyone!!}}

On this special Solemnity of Mary the Holy Mother of God,, trusting in God's timeless faithfulness, mercy, and love, let us first call to mind our sins.

Lord Jesus, your beloved and Mother is thereby the Mother of God. Lord have mercy
Your beloved mother is Help of Christians. Christ have mercy
Your beloved Mother is the Queen of Heaven. 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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PREFACE: Blessed Virgin MARY I
Euch .Prayer: 2
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{Thanks everyone, and THROUGH God's grace and mercy, and the faithful intercession of Mary the holy mother of God, may this be for you all a blessed, healthy and grace-filled year of the lord 2025.}

The Lord be with you……
(let's bow our heads to receive God's blessing)

May God, the source and origin of all blessing,
grant you grace,
pour out his blessing in abundance,
and keep you safe from harm throughout the year. Amen.

May he give you integrity in the faith,
endurance in hope,
and perseverance in charity
with holy patience to the end. Amen.

May he order your days and your deeds in his peace,
grant your prayers in this and in every place,
and lead you happily to eternal life.
Amen.

And may the blessing of almighty God,
the Father, and the Son,+ and the Holy Spirit,
come down on you and remain with you forever.

Amen.

 

Dismissal:

 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 my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here.
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.

Christmas Hymn - "Word Made Flesh" by Paul W. Kelly. Based upon: John's Gospel 1:14,  1 John 4:9 , & Isaiah 9:2, 6, 7.
(Written on 8/5/20; 10/9/20).  Arranged and sung by Stefan Kelk, with adjusted lyrics.  2020. 
https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk

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

[ Production - KER - 2025]

May God bless and keep you.
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First Reading

Numbers 6:22-27 (NRSV)

A reading from the book of Numbers.
The Lord spoke to Moses:
"Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying,
'Thus you shall bless the Israelites:
You shall say to them,
"'The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face to shine upon you,
and be gracious to you;
the Lord lift up his countenance upon you,
and give you peace.'
"So they shall put my name on the Israelites,
and I will bless them."
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Responsorial Psalm
Ps 66:2-3, 5, 6, 8 (JB)

R. May God bless us in his mercy.
God, be gracious and bless us
and let your face shed its light upon us.
So will your ways be known upon earth
and all nations learn your saving help. R.
Let the nations be glad and exult
for you rule the world with justice.
With fairness you rule the peoples.
you guide the nations on earth. R.
Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
May God still give us his blessing
till the ends of the earth revere him. R.
Second Reading

Galatians 4:4-7 (NRSV)
A reading from the letter of Paul to the Galatians.
When the fullness of time had come,
God sent his Son, born of a woman,
born under the law,
in order to redeem those who were under the law,
so that we might receive adoption as children.
And because you are children,
God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying,
"Abba! Father!"
So you are no longer a slave but a child,
and if a child then also an heir, through God.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Gospel Acclamation
Hebrews 1:1-2 (JB)
Alleluia, alleluia!
In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets;
now he speaks to us through his Son.
Alleluia!

Gospel

Luke 2:16-21 (NRSV)

A reading from the holy gospel according to Luke.
When the angels had left them
the shepherds said to one another,
"Let us go now to Bethlehem
and see this thing that has taken place,
which the Lord has made known to us."
So they went with haste
and found Mary and Joseph,
and the child lying in the manger.
When they saw this,
they made known what had been told them about this child;
and all who heard it were amazed
at what the shepherds told them.
But Mary treasured all these words
and pondered them in her heart.
The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God
for all they had heard and seen,
as it had been told them.
After eight days had passed,
it was time to circumcise the child;
and he was called Jesus,
the name given by the angel
before he was conceived in the womb.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.