Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, August 1, 2021 (EPISODE: 313)

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, August 1, 2021

(EPISODE: 313)

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

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 1502778752. Vranov, Slovakia. 2019/8/22. Icon of the Last Supper. Chapel of the Convent of the Holy Trinity in Lomnica, Vranov nad Toplou, Slovakia.By Adam Jan Figel
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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, August 1, 2021, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ordinary-18b-episode-313  
(EPISODE: 313)
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* (Prologue: Fr Paul Kelly)
In the readings, we hear that the Lord has provided us with 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 start to 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 have already received. Preferring to count the bad things and forgetting to cherish the good things. Many things which would outweigh the bad.

The experience of the People of Israel stands as a cautionary example for every generation who follow-  -. We have to be wary of a culture of complaining and grumbling. Refusing to be satisfied by what we have. And, then what we DO receive, as wonderful as it is, is never quite enough.
 
Then there is the situation in the gospel where the people start demanding things of God with a sense of entitlement, instead of a grateful, remembering, humble heart. We also can be tempted to demanding that God gives us what we want EXACTLY as we demand it is given, and in the time scale 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 even more amazingly, They can eat all they want but they cannot store it away, they must trust in God's providence day by day. (This is a very good attitude for us to cherish in our hearts).
 
The second reading echoes this - God's graciousness and generosity is never stingy- It is more than enough-. (But God provides for us in surprising and unexpected ways – that may not be what we had in mind when we express our need).
 
Pope Francis has spoken about the dangers of excessive complaining many times, including very early in his pontificate when 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."
 
A year later, during one of his daily morning Masses, in Santa Marta, the pope warned that when we are at prayer we ought to avoid exaggerating difficulties, as compared to those undergoing major tragedies.
 
"Our life is too easy, our complaints are over-dramatized," 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; people 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 from 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 times of trial – which 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."
 
This, he said, "is the prayer of the Church for these Suffering Jesus' who are everywhere."
 
There is a New sign on the door of Pope Francis' humble rooms at his residence at Domus Santa Martha, where he's lived since the beginning of his pontificate.
 
"Complaining Not Allowed" (in Italian, Vietato Lamentarsi), reads the sign. Then, In much 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 that they're subject to developing a "victim complex" with the subsequent "diminution of their sense of humour and ability to solve problems."
 
Complaining in the presence of children, (the sign warns), would lead to a double sanction.
 
A recent addition to Pope Francis's door closes on a more upbeat note, advising readers that "to become the best of yourself, you have to 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 Italian psychologist and psychotherapist Salvo Noé, who gave it to the pope after a June 14 weekly audience. Noé specializes in psychology in work environments and gives well-being lectures to universities, security forces, and companies.
 
Pope Francis has also said on another occasion, Complaining too often can distance us from Jesus, says Pope Francis
 
The Pope says moaning "dashes hope"
 
Complaining frequently can become an obsession that obscures the presence of Jesus in difficult situations, Pope Francis has said.
 
Complaining and griping, about others and about things in one's own life, is harmful "because it dashes hope. Don't get into this "game" of a "life of complaints."
 
Inspired by God's word and God's providence and goodness, let us walk with God in trust - and 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

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 1502778752. Vranov, Slovakia. 2019/8/22. Icon of the Last Supper. Chapel of the Convent of the Holy Trinity in Lomnica, Vranov nad Toplou, Slovakia.By Adam Jan Figel

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B (Sunday, August 1, 2021) (EPISODE: 313  )
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of William John (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 - 2021]

May God bless and keep you.
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Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, July 25, 2021 (EPISODE: 312)

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  - Sunday, July 25, 2021

(EPISODE: 312)

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

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 1497751724-Secovska Polianka, Slovakia. 2019/8/22. The Icon of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes – Feeding the Multitude. The church of Saint Elijah.-By Adam Jan Figel
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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, July 25, 2021, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ordinary-17b-episode-312  
(EPISODE: 312)
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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 merely grabbing and clutching at 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. We have people still, who 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 times of need.

It is also a reminder of God's desire for us to offer our gifts, resources and talents for the good of others.

We offer these gifts to God, through our care for each other.
 
The gifts we have, we are given to share.
 
We are very mindful of the many areas in the world where there are huge numbers of people who do not even have enough of the basics of life: food, water, shelter, healthcare, education, safety and freedom. We are inspired to work to help them, through the caring help of missionary and charitable groups who meet these 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 has 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 and wonder" – these acts were not intended to win him popularity. In fact, Our Lord shuns popularity and swiftly leaves the scene after the extraordinary event, in order to prevent the popular enthusiasm of the crowd from rising up and avoid the situation of people trying to make him an earthly king.

Our Lord's actions are motivated only by compassion and by concern for the real needs of his people. He calls on his disciples, (us too!), to do everything we can, to use all the resources we have available to be real "food for the hungry. And help for those most in need."

It is 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. God works to give us what we need, and he calls upon others to assist in the meeting of the real human needs of others. When we are 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.

Our Lord calls us to give -- and keep giving, without counting the cost; without expectation of return. Our Lord promises to transform this heartfelt but humble offering of ours, into things of grace.
 
There is 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 1968, in a 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 are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior
motives; be kind anyway.
If you are 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 'judgement' or 'self-justification' into the common bond between us, but rather God makes 'love' and 'goodwill' and 'generosity' as the true bond that unites us. We "love our neighbour" precisely because God's presence is in everyone around us, whether the others recognise it in return, or whether (or not) they recognise 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), to "live a life worthy of our vocation.... in humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love,"

I think it is fair to say that Saint Paul would not have needed to plead with us to "bear with each other" if it was already an easy thing to do. It is not easy to follow the way of Our Lord. It does not always come naturally to 'bear with one another in patience and love,' even if it is what we were made for, and destined for. Because we are being called to live in communion with God and to allow God to transform our humanity into the shining image of God's Divine life and values.

Love, gentleness and dignity are at the heart of everything Our Lord does. Our Lord respects each person's dignity in the miracle of the loaves and fishes.

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 great dignity. 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 interaction and an experience of a 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. ID: 1497751724-Secovska Polianka, Slovakia. 2019/8/22. The Icon of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes – Feeding the Multitude. The church of Saint Elijah.-By Adam Jan Figel

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  (Sunday, July 25, 2021)

(EPISODE: 312 )
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.

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of William John (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 - 2021]

May God bless and keep you.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

​Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, July 18, 2021 (EPISODE: 311)

 Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  - Sunday, July 18, 2021

(EPISODE: 311)

Readings for Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B
FIRST READING: Jer 23: 1-6
Ps 23: 1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6. "The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want."
SECOND READING: Eph 2: 13-18
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 10: 27). Alleluia, alleluia! My sheep listen to my voice, says the Lord. I know them, and they follow me.
GOSPEL: Mark 6: 30-34

Shutterstock licensed image ID:1140627950- Biblical vector illustration of Jesus as a shepherd- By rudall30
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  - Sunday, July 18, 2021, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ordinary-16b-episode-311  
(EPISODE: 311)
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(Homily:  Fr Paul Kelly ).
"He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd."
 
There is a beautiful line in the second reading that one could spend the whole week, a whole lifetime contemplating the meaning of:
 "Jesus is our peace, he who made both one and broke down the dividing wall ........, through his flesh, abolishing the law with its commandments and legal claims, that he might create in himself one new person in place of the two, thus establishing peace." 
 
This is really fascinating...
So, peace is not just a state of mind or body...,
And Reconciliation and forgiveness is not just something we do or do not do......
"Peace" is actually a person,
"Forgiveness" is a person,
...and that person is Jesus, who is the Lord of Peace, the Prince of forgiveness...
 
The writer and poet Alice Camille, tells of an incident in her life that brought this personal dimension of peace, home to her. She writes:
 
"There was no way I was going to speak to that guy who offended me again. NO WAY!!! I repeated this mantra several times to fortify my resolve. I was outraged. I was hurting. As I rehearsed for the twentieth time the righteousness of my position against my enemy who had offended me. Then I remembered, peace wasn't something that was mine to give or deny. Jesus is our peace. Jesus is the WAY of peace... unity with him is unity with peace and reconciliation. To withhold reconciliation is to withhold Christ and what Christ can do..."
 
The balance between reflection and action, prayer and good works, work and rest, comes into focus in this weekend's Gospel. It is often hard to get this balance right in our lives. So many demands on our time, many good projects that can be called on us, and so the balance of work/rest, prayer/action is quite challenging. Jesus knew this balance and he responded and was flexible and even changed his plans when situations unexpectedly arose, but at the same time, there is a deep sense about Jesus that he kept that balance within his heart and was able to be peaceful and loving in his response, despite the many demands.
 
Jesus knew the benefit of taking some time to get away from it all and revive, rest, pray and have time to nourish ourselves, in body, spirit and mind. 
 
He showed that care for himself and his disciples, (even in the midst of the heavy demands of his ministry), and whilst facing the crushing needs of countless people who came to see him, hear him and touch him.
 
Among the natural benefits of taking some time out: namely renewal and physical and spiritual recuperation, there is also a valuable chance to 'stop, take a breath and look at where we are, where we are heading and what we are trying to achieve."
 
If we constantly respond to the urgent… we may miss getting a chance to weigh up whether it is also 'important.'  Something can be urgent, but not necessarily important.  And some of the most important things in life may never present themselves to us as "urgent" but (if neglected) these needs could cause major difficulties and even cause us to lose sight of the things that really matter. 
 
Also, we believe that our God can be encountered in silence and stillness. And so we MUST make time for that silence and stillness.
 
I am impressed by a quote from Saint Teresa which says "Settle yourself in solitude… and you will come upon him in yourself."
 
Another really striking thing about today's gospel passage is that, although Jesus knew he needed to get away from it all and give himself and his disciples time to rest and pray and gain renewal and focus.  With this in mind, his attitude towards the needy crowds when he saw them is really inspiring. He gets to the place he was heading for a well-deserved rest; only to find the crowds have found their way here too!!!
 
We could be forgiven in some way if in exasperation we reacted in similar situations by saying… "Oh please, give me a break! Go away. I am too tired. Leave me alone!" But, of course, Jesus' reaction is that of so many parents and carers who are faced with the all too real needs of their beloved. It is a response of love and deep compassion and inclusion.  He understood them. He knew their needs and could see into their hearts.  
 
He did not see the crowds as if they were nothing to do with him. They were never just people he spoke to and taught but had no connection with. These needy people - these crowds were not disconnected from him. He identified himself with the people who were there, like a parent to a child; as a spouse to their beloved. This was not a case of "them and us" when it came to relating to the crowd.

Jesus' compassionate reaction to the crowd was because, although he was not denying his needs and his disciple's needs for rest and prayer and reflection; when he came across the crowds he recognized their needs as also important.   This is such an important key.  All of these needs are important. No doubt. 
 
So … for Jesus, it was always a case of "not them and us" but "us and us." His needs and the needs of the disciples were as important as the needs of the crowds and the crowd's needs and were as real and important to him as his own. He kept that in his mind and heart. And his response reflected that. He solved the slightly conflicting needs by responding in compassion to the lost and desperate needs of those he encountered…
 
 I am sure he then went off and gave himself and his disciples the space they needed……. afterwards.
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References:

Homily –Prologue - Fr Paul W. Kelly

Quote from Alice L. Camille. Reflection in  PrepareTheWord.com. - PrepareTheWord.com, ©2012, TrueQuest Communications, LLC.}


Shutterstock licensed image ID:1140627950- Biblical vector illustration of Jesus as a shepherd- By rudall30


Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B   (Sunday, July 18, 2021)  (EPISODE: 311)
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (or/ The Lord be with You)
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{{May Our Lord's care, comfort you}} welcome everyone, we gather -  To take time to reflect upon the meaning of God's word for our everyday lives

Brothers and sisters, as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the Lord's supper, let us recall our sins and acknowledge them in silence. 

Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life: Lord, have mercy// //Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins: Christ, have mercy//Lord Jesus, you feed us with your body and blood: Lord, have mercy//

May Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ps 23: 1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6. "The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 10: 27). Alleluia, alleluia! My sheep listen to my voice, says the Lord. I know them, and they follow me.
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PREFACE: Sundays III
EP II
(theme variation: 2 )

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.
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 -  2021]

May God bless and keep you.
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Fifteenth Sunday, Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, July 11, 2021 (EPISODE: 310)

Fifteenth Sunday, Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, July 11, 2021

(EPISODE: 310)

Readings for Fifteenth Sunday, Ordinary Time. Year B
FIRST READING: Amos 7: 12-15
Ps 85: 9ab+10, 11-12, 13-14. "Lord, show us your mercy and love and grant us your salvation. "
SECOND READING: Eph 1: 3-14 or 1: 3-10
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Eph 1: 17-18). Alleluia, alleluia! May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our heart. That we might see how great is the hope to which we are called.
GOSPEL: Mark 6: 7-13

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Image ID: 409997863-
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC - APRIL 2, 2016: Stained Glass window in St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague.- By jorisvo
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Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Fifteenth Sunday, Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, July 11, 2021 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ordinary-15b-episode-310/s-8ikFqPyB6oR  
(EPISODE:310)
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Prologue:  As Saint Paul Says in the Second reading today: "God has showered us with EVERY spiritual gift," – so it is good for us to pause and ask ourselves…. how are we making use of all of these gifts to live our lives in harmony with God's loving vision for the world.?

The spiritual gifts include wisdom, understanding, knowledge, discernment, courage, reverence, and wonder.   
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Homily: Jesus must have known the effect and the "radical originality" of what he was proposing. The gospel this weekend highlights the differences in the first reading.
 
There were people in Jesus' time, who were "professional prophets"; they were born into a family of prophets; This was the "family business"; just like others might be carpenters; some were prophets; And they made their money and earned their bread and shelter by plying their trade as a prophet; which was often a rather financially rewarding occupation. Particularly if you told people what they wanted to hear and avoided offending anyone with the truth.
 
But Amos in the first reading makes it clear that he is no "professional prophet," but rather, Amos is simply a poor shepherd; called by God to speak God's message to the people. He is not here to reinforce people's self-serving world-views. He is here to build up the Kingdom of God, not the Kingdom of "Me."

Jesus calls his followers to that same authenticity and simplicity -- to be open and faithful to God's word and God's vision, no matter how challenging, no matter how difficult. However, at the same time, Jesus is calling us to an attitude and practice of simplicity in our lifestyles, and desires; To live more simply and to travel lightly and with less baggage; whether it be physical, spiritual, or emotional baggage.
 
It is such an attractive and reassuring message, in a world where we seem to be being called to the opposite - to possessiveness; to indulgence; to self-realisation; to materialism and to an unapologetic participation in unwholesome words, practices and thoughts.
 
Jesus commissioned the disciples to go out "two by two." --In our modern culture the desire "go it alone" on projects and challenges is a fairly familiar approach, but this 'being an island unto oneself," would have been a much rarer attitude, back in the days when belonging to a community was almost EVERYTHING. One's survival often depends upon it. Nowadays it seems a popular goal to be a 'self-made, - self-sustaining person'.

Our Lord teaches the wisdom of "not going it alone" on our spiritual journey, especially when we're trying to share our faith or live it in its very public dimensions. In the process of taking our faith out into the world and living it, we may not need a lot of baggage, but we do need other people of faith to support us; to inspire us, guide, help and, even at times, challenge us - There is really no such thing as a solo Christian and Christianity is not something that we can do best all by ourselves.
 
We know it is so much easier for a person to tear down others' plans and arguments than it is to build them up and to help make them work........
There seem to be all-too-many examples of people throughout the world "acting before proper, sober evaluation, " or by actually seeking messages that reinforce our pre-determined interests.

Christ calls us to act after due consideration for the kind of world we are creating by our decisions.  Jesus' gospel certainly is not about self-serving choices...
 
Jesus wanted his disciples to 'travel light' so to be free to live his good news. Our Lord commands us to be detached from "things" -  because "things," and ever-increasing possessions can easily clutter and weigh us down – block us from achieving our goal of proclaiming His gospel in action and word.

Someone once said that "half the confusion in the world comes from being unable to realise just how little we really need."

So, if it is harder than ever for us to know how little we need (and how little some others actually have) perhaps the problem in our modern culture at the moment is that there is an alarming (and increasing gap) and a blurring between the concepts of "want" and "need ".
 
And Our Lord clarifies this action with his teaching and example –
"As you travel through life......travel light!!
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References:

Homily –
Fr Paul W. Kelly

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Image ID: 409997863-
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC - APRIL 2, 2016: Stained Glass window in St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague.- By jorisvo 


Fifteenth Sunday, Ordinary Time. Year B  (Sunday, July 11, 2021)  (EPISODE: 310)
The Lord be with you.
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{{May Our Lord's empathy abide in you.}} welcome everyone, we gather -  To offer or praise, prayers and intercessions to our loving God

As one family in Christ, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries by calling to mind our sins. 

You raise the dead to life in the Spirit. Lord, have mercy//You bring pardon and peace to the sinner. Christ, have mercy// You bring light to those in darkness. 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 85: 9ab+10, 11-12, 13-14. "Lord, show us your mercy and love, and grant us your salvation. "

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Eph 1: 17-18). Alleluia, alleluia! May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our heart. That we might see how great is the hope to which we are called.
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PREFACE: Sundays II
EP III
(theme variation: 1 )

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{I pray this week brings you an ever deeper experience of Our Lord's compassion and 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of William John (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.
Microphones: - Sennheiser MK4 Cardioid Condenser; and  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 -  2021]

May God bless and keep you.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++