Thursday, April 28, 2022

Third Sunday of Easter. Year C - 01-May-22(EPISODE: 363)

Third Sunday of Easter. Year C - 01-May-22
(EPISODE: 363)

Readings for 01-May-22 - Third Sunday of Easter. Year C
FIRST READING:
Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41
Ps 30:2+4, 5-6, 11-12a+13b. "I will praise you Lord, for you have rescued me"
SECOND READING:
Rev 5:11-14
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION ((no bibl. ref.)). Alleluia, alleluia! Christ is risen, the Lord of all creation. He has shown pity on all people.
GOSPEL:
John 21:1-19 or 21:1-14

Image: Shutterstock licensed Item ID: 188307938 - VATICAN CITY - SEPTEMBER 21: The Great Catch of Fish mosaic in the St. Peter's Basilica on September 21, 2013 - Vatican City, Italy. - Contributor: Luis Santosl.
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Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Third Sunday of Easter. Year C - 01-May-22 by clicking this link here:
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/easter-3c-ep-363-2022 (EPISODE:363 )
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The apostles quickly return to the activity that they know best, and which gives them the comfort of familiarity: (their previous profession: fishing). But, although they are out all night, they again prove to be totally unsuccessful. Again, Jesus, (albeit unrecognised at first), asks the disciples to follow his instructions and this results in a massive catch of fish. The disciples then RECOGNISE that this is Jesus and they rush to greet him.

It is a reminder to the disciples, and to us, that our success – in everything that really matters - depends entirely upon our following the instructions and guidance of the Lord. Without the guidance and direction of Jesus, all our efforts could be misguided (no matter how well-intended). It is Jesus who gives success and fruitfulness to the work of our hands.

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Jesus does a truly wonderful thing in this gospel scene. He restored Peter fully to good standing. Peter did a really shocking thing. When it came to the crunch, he let Jesus down and denied that he even knew him, not once but THREE times…. And Peter knew all too well, the terrible remorse of this denial. Peter meant well. When he had told Jesus at the last supper, "I will not abandon you, I will die for you" he meant it. But in the fear of the moment, knowing the real dangers, he lost his nerve and he chose self-preservation and denial, but very soon after this mistake, he regretted it bitterly.

This scene is one of those wonderful examples of just how different God's ways are from human ways. Jesus, thank goodness, shows us God's infinite kindness, compassion, understanding and forgiveness…

Jesus doesn't reject Peter, and nor does he chide him for what really was a gross lapse in support of our Lord. Rather, Jesus knows Peter and his heart. He already KNOWS that Peter does love him and wants to follow him. He knows that Peter's loyalty is really very strong, and so he gives him this beautiful and moving, and deeply emotional opportunity to reverse his denials and profess his love and support for him.

Jesus gives him (for the sake of Saint Peter's sake; not for Our Lord's sake) THREE opportunities to say "I love and believe and follow the Lord" which is as many times as he had denied Christ on the night before the crucifixion. Jesus, in his mercy, gives Peter the perfect opportunity to declare his unswerving support and reminds him that he will suffer for this dedication and eventually he WILL be martyred for his following of Jesus. Next time, Peter will not fail to declare and support Our Lord and show his leadership. Jesus entrusts the care of his beloved people to Peter's care and dedication.

It certainly makes you think… if we were to do things the human way, then the best leader for the group of disciples would hardly have been a man who denied Christ three times when he needed him most…. Nor would we have probably appointed as a worthy leader St Paul, who started out his career persecuting and arresting and getting executed anyone who followed Jesus… if we were looking around for people to lead and care for God's people and only used human standards, these people and many others would have been written off as failed, weak and unreliable….. but God does not think as we think. God sees into the human heart. God sees what we are capable of and God knows that we need forgiveness and a new start in order not to be stuck in our old ways…. God knows that mercy and trust help to set people back on the right path and to do the things God calls them to do….. things that they would never be able to fulfil if we hold everyone to their past faults and always make sure people live in the past and can never have a new start… can never be given a chance to be what that ought to be….

Thank goodness that these people are the leaders of the early church… it gives us a new and wonderful way of seeing things… and it is so liberating and positive!… We all have new chances, new opportunities… and we have a God who loves us, understands us and doesn't want to leave us stuck in our past mistakes… but helps us to begin again, and walk humbly with his guidance and direction……

Let us thank God for this and trust in his guidance to put us back on his right path and keep us there…..

References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly)

[Image: Shutterstock licensed Item ID: 188307938 - VATICAN CITY - SEPTEMBER 21: The Great Catch of Fish mosaic in the St. Peter's Basilica on September 21, 2013 - Vatican City, Italy. - Contributor: Luis Santosl]
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Third Sunday of Easter. Year C (01-May-22) (EPISODE: 363 )
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 gift of dignity and community enliven you.}}

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pause and reflect upon our sins, in order to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
Lord Jesus, you came to gather the nations into the peace of God's kingdom: Lord, have mercy

You come in word and in sacrament to strengthen us and make us holy: Christ, have mercy

You will come again in glory with salvation for your people: Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.
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Ps 30:2+4, 5-6, 11-12a+13b. "I will praise you Lord, for you have rescued me"

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION ((no bibl. ref.)).
Alleluia, alleluia! Christ is risen, the Lord of all creation. He has shown pity on all people.

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 Ordinary VI
Euch prayer III
(pre+post variation: v1-lshort)
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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 my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- "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: - RODE-NT-USB-mini

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

Sound Processing: iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

[Production - KER - 2022]
May God bless and keep you.
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(Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish sends these emails in order to speedily keep in touch with parishioners, including for the occasional urgent/emergency emails affecting parish schedules (which has come in handy already for several unexpected events in the past - which people were grateful to receive quickly - So, we ask that you please consider keeping subscribed to this mailing list, as it helps us keep in touch in all sorts of changing situations. We have had times when parishioners said they did not know of an important development within the parish and it turns out that they had opted out of this central email).

Monday, April 25, 2022

ANZAC DAY MEMORIAL – AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND. - - 25TH APRIL 2022 (episode 362)

Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish - Mass - Podcast

ANZAC DAY MEMORIAL – AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND. - - 25TH APRIL 2022 (episode 362)

Readings for ANZAC DAY (2022)

Wisdom 3:1-9

Ps 71:2–4, 7–8, 12–13, 17: Justice shall flourish in his time and fullness of peace for ever.

Second reading - Ephesians 2:13-18 - He is our peace

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION Revelation 14:13 (JB) Alleluia, alleluia! Happy are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labours for their good deeds go with them. Alleluia!

or John 14:27. Alleluia, alleluia! Peace I leave with you, says the Lord, my own peace I give you. Alleluia!

Gospel - John 12: 23-28. If a grain of wheat falls on the ground and dies, it yields a rich harvest.

Image: Shutterstock licensed Item ID: 613609064 - Canberra, Australia - March 18, 2017. Poppy wall lists the names of all the Australians who died in service of armies. The red poppy has become a symbol of war remembrance (ANZAC Day) the world over. Contributor – katacarix

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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers, and reflections for Anzac Day, April 25th 2022, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/easter-anzac-day-memorial-mass-2022 (episode 362)
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107 years ago, soldiers from the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, landed at Gallipoli, at dawn on this day in 1915, during World War I. This national day of remembrance honours the courage and the self-sacrifice of those who served in that campaign, and that war and indeed all wars, and conflicts and peace-keeping operations. We particularly recognise the sacrifice of the fallen. We commend them to God's eternal care... and we also pray fervently that the peace and justice, which they sought to defend and preserve, will dwell richly in our land and in our world and that God's peace and reverence will make a home in the hearts of every person in this world.
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Many who returned from serving in the wars often did not speak of their experiences…They were so deep and indescribable…. (My grandfather, who fought in WWII was one of those who spoke very
seldom on his experiences in the war, but when he spoke everyone listened – quietly, in awe, and in deep respect… valuing every word, and hoping that nothing would happen to cut short his rare reflections And when these service men and women did speak of their experiences , it would astound and humble anyone who heard them…

Today we respect their silence… and we also respect their times of sharing; of whatever they did feel was important for us to know, and to take to heart. To 'never forget' - lest past history be repeated… or core principles be lost.

Today, and every year at this time, we willingly and gratefully pause to remember and pray - give thanks for those countless men and women who served in time of war…. And who sacrificed everything…. For the sake of their families, their friends, their colleagues… their mates.. and their country.. and the freedom, the love, the friendship and peace that lay behind their service and sacrifice.

Over many decades now, there has been a conscious collecting of many recollections of those who lived through these times….. to preserve their voices and messages for future generations…. As the sharing of experiences of a wide variety of people have been shared…. People who served in time of war …. It has shown that even if 2 people have served in the same theatre of war at the same time, they could very well have different responses. Varying reactions, different perspectives and memories relating to the same situations. They each bring their unique insight to the broader story. Anzac day is an opportunity to highlight the diversity of experiences and wisdom of these people, as well as the similarities of the experiences. (both the differences and the similarities are important and instructive).
(https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/resources/ww2-veterans-reflect-anzac-day-their-own-words)

For example a Helicopter pilot who served in the Vietnam War-

Al Bridges shared his experience in the ANZAC online portal…. He flew choppers, and often came under fire as he and his colleagues were dropping off and picking up troops in helicopters in the midst of intense conflicts as well as medical evacuations….…. In answer to the question.. "what would you like to tell the young people today"…he says… : 'It would be nice to say that it's up to them to make sure we don't have wars in the future.
They are absolutely terrible things. But I think that's being unrealistic. I just hope that none of you children will ever be involved in a war.'

'Al is a humble man, with a life of service. He didn't like war, but he put himself in harm's way, over and over again, doing his duty. In his retirement, Al chooses to spend his time educating visitors to the War Memorial about Australia's military history. In war, and in life, Al Bridges is a wonderful role model.' One of countless people we remember this day….
(
https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/resources/alastair-bridges-stories-service)


Today hinges on our ability not only to remember, but to remember well. When we gather in silent contemplation, what is it we should dwell on? Where should our minds and hearts go during the minute's silence? What must we avoid forgetting?

From our Christian perspective -
We hear from the Lord's own lips, "No one has greater love, says the Lord, than those who lay down their lives for their friends, " and today we commemorate the ultimate sacrifice of those who served in times of war… and those who risked life and limb for those they loved…..
WE CANNOT HELP BUT NOTICE THE ECHO OF CHRISTS DEATH ON THE CROSS IN THE DEATH OF ALL WHO GAVE UP THEIR IRREPLACEABLE LIVES
Defending AND PROTECT THEIR LOVED ONES FROM REAL AND FRIGHTENING DANGERS.

We remember the sacrifices and losses of war in order to respectfully remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice of their lives (and others their health and peace of mind) in the face of terrible aggression and assaults on human dignity and freedom. WE ALSO
(try to) ensure future genocides, unjust wars and global atrocities do not take place. Remembrance steels our commitment to peace and justice by reminding us of the alternative, WHICH ALWAYS COMES AS TOO HIGH A PRICE.

Yes, we ought to try to embody the virtues of courage and self-sacrifice, and also out of respect for those who
experienced the indescribable realities of war….. we should also pay due mind to the horror, atrocity and evil of both war itself and, how nations like ourselves (and its soldiers and peoples) are drawn reluctantly into these conflicts throughout history (in response to real threats to the peace). by aggressive and toxic nationalism, and countless acts of utter disregard for human rights and needs. . The world deeply wants to learn from the past violence and destruction to avoid future repeats -

AS THE FAMILIAR ODE SAYS…. …
"Age shall not weary THEM" - THAT IS… those men and women we have already lost. Lest we forget the reason they died, the horrors they saw, and suffered and THE HORRORS THAT THEY URGENTLY FOUGHT TO PREVENT IF THE AGGRESSOR WERE TO GET THE UPPER HAND… THE LOSS OF THE values THAT UNDERPIN OUR VERY SOCIETY….. (ALSO) WE REMEMBER the effects on those who are still with us, and who need us still.
https://www.abc.net.au/religion/what-must-we-remember-on-anzac-day-moral-reflection-without-mili/10094782

We remember and pay our heartfelt thanks to all who gave their lives.. The ultimate sacrifice – We take strength from Christ, Our Risen Saviour, who gave his life so that we might all be saved and be made forever citizens of the eternal and Heavenly City of peace and justice……. We cherish and gain hope from Christ's words …. "no greater love has a person than to lay down their life for a friend."


We pray that all those who lost their lives are now resting in the eternal peace of Christ…

There are many, many sacrifices that were made by those who served in time of war and those who serve now too…. As well as the sacrifice of their lives, there is also the loss of their youth, their health, and emotional well-being….. Those who came back injured in body, mind or spirit, from their experiences…. Anyone in any way affected by the horrors of war and its aftermath….. We remember them…. With profound respect.

The human cost of war - of people risking and often losing life for the defence of others and for the values we cherish… can never be adequately calculated… - and it cannot be repaid


The next generation. as with previous generations of young people, have taken up the torch of remembrance for all who gave the ultimate sacrifice… An important torch to carry... Remembering devoutly, the cost of freedom and peace… which came at such an enormous price…. From so many brave men and women…. and their families and communities.

Our hearts break again this year… as we have witnessed shocking and appalling acts of aggression - a terrible lack of respect for human life and dignity… that people around the world have watched with horror in places such as Ukraine…. It can't help but bring back memories of the generations of Australians and people around the world who have fought to stop the acts of war and aggression… and to see the terrible effects on cities and civilian populations.. to see the elderly and women and children – including pregnant women - suffering horribly right in the middle of the war zone… people of goodwill have come rushed to decry these acts of terror and also rushed to protest in the strongest possible ways, these acts of hatred and destruction. The arrogant and inhuman lack of concern for human life horrifies people of goodwill everywhere… we cry out to the Lord, Lord, these acts of war and violence and destruction are intolerable… they are unjust and utterly wrong… We cry out for peace and respect and justice for your beloved people…

We also pray that the hard lessons learned from previous conflicts and defences - and the ultimate cost of life that occurred in repelling aggressors ….. and the hard-won victory over that aggression – will not be forgotten - we are united around the world with people praying and working for peace and end to violence – so that history does not repeat itself… and we pray for our leaders and also for those who would be called to step forward in times of need….


Our prayer today and for the future is for that peace which only Christ can give to the world….. A peace and a love that quenches the all-too-real hatred and misunderstanding in the world..… and banishes that which leads to enmity and violence… We long for this… Those who served prayed and struggled for it… We continue this prayer this year and every year… this special day and all days….

May peace be in the hearts and minds of all people in the world…. May the peace of God's kingdom one day soon put an end to all war and violence…. In remembering and acknowledging the human cost of war and the price, beyond telling, of those who served…. We not only remember them, but we commit ourselves to a world where the values they fought for are cherished, protected and remembered.

We pray that God's reign of peace, justice, dignity and love will come in all its fullness….. and that the values of those who struggled and suffered for us will be always and everywhere respected, preserved and built up ever stronger…

Today we recall the extraordinary poem of which a paragraph has become immortalized as THE ODE…. the poem, written by Laurence Binyon in 1914 (one hundred-and-six years ago this year)…. And captures the importance of remembering and commemorating this day….

elsewhere in that same poem, he writes a passage that echoes our belief that those who have made sacrifices in the service of others remain not only in our hearts and memories… but, although hidden from sight… live on…. in the everlasting life of God's kingdom where there is true peace… no more suffering, no war… no pain…. our constant prayer is that God's Kingdom Come, not only in heaven but that the peace and justice of God's Kingdom will take hold and express itself more and more on earth…. and that the freedoms and values that our past generations have sacrificed everything for …. will be assured for all… and forever……

"Where our desires are and our hopes profound,
Felt as a well-spring that is hidden from sight,
To the innermost heart of their own land they are known
As the stars are known to the Night;

As the stars that shall be bright when we are dust,
Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain;
As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness,
To the end, to the end, they remain."**….

(We will remember them) ...

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- Reflection by Fr Paul Kelly

- ** Robert Laurence Binyon, (10 August 1869 – 10 March 1943). "For The Fallen", The Times, (London), 21 September 1914.

- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_history_of_Australia

Image: Shutterstock licensed Item ID: 613609064 - Canberra, Australia - March 18, 2017. Poppy wall lists the names of all the Australians who died in service of armies. The red poppy has become a symbol of war remembrance (ANZAC Day) the world over. Contributor – katacarix
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ANZAC DAY MEMORIAL – AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND. Year A - 25TH APRIL 2022.
(EPISODE: 362)

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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As we begin the Holy Eucharist, let us acknowledge our sinfulness, so as to worthily celebrate the sacred mysteries.

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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Let us pray for peace in our world, and in our hearts and homes. Lord Hear Us.

Let us pray for all the servicemen and women, who served our nation with bravery and honour. Lord Hear Us.

Let us pray for those men and women who died in the time of war, defending the freedom, the values and the people they love. Lord Hear Us.

Let us pray for all those who have been injured or in any way physically or emotionally affected by war. Lord Hear Us.

Let us pray for those who presently serve in armed forces, that they may be protected and strengthened. Lord Hear Us.

Let us pray that we will experience a deep sense of unity with God and with one another. Lord Hear Us.

Let us pray that the ANZAC spirit of self-sacrifice, bravery, and support may always live in the memories and hearts of all Australians. Lord Hear Us.

For people around the world - suffering the effects of war, violence and assaults on human dignity and rights. Including the people of the Ukraine… that they may be given peace and dignity and practical assistance in their suffering. And that God's peace will spur people to find every paths to peace and justice.
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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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pref: Christian death II
Eucharistic Prayer II
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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
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 – Jerusalem Bible (1966)
"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).
{Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" - by Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The ….Gloria, copyright 2011 ccwatershed.org. }
"Today I Arise" - For Patricia Kelly. Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.
[ Production - KER - 2022]
May God bless and keep you.



Many thanks,

The Parish Team

(Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish sends these emails in order to speedily keep in touch with parishioners, including for the occasional urgent/emergency emails affecting parish schedules (which has come in handy already for several unexpected events in the past - which people were grateful to receive quickly - So, we ask that you please consider keeping subscribed to this mailing list, as it helps us keep in touch in all sorts of changing situations. We have had times when parishioners said they did not know of an important development within the parish and it turns out that they had opted out of this central email).

Thursday, April 21, 2022

Liturgy and Homily - Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish - Second Sunday of Easter. Year C. Divine Mercy Sunday - 24-Apr-22(EPISODE: 361)

Second Sunday of Easter. Year C. Divine Mercy Sunday - 24-Apr-22
(EPISODE: 361)

Readings for 24-Apr-22 - Second Sunday of Easter. Year C. Divine Mercy Sunday
FIRST READING:
Acts 5:12-16
Ps 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24. "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting."
SECOND READING:
Rev 1:9-13, 17-19
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (). Alleluia, alleluia! You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me; happy those who have not seen me, but still believe.
GOSPEL:
John 20:19-31

Image: Shutterstock licensed Item ID: 1055941625 Venezia (Venice), Italy. 2 February 2018. The painting of Resurrected Jesus Christ with Thomas the apostle and other apostles by Sebastiano Santi in 'Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli' church. Contributor: Adam Jan Figel

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Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Second Sunday of Easter. Year C. Divine Mercy Sunday - 24-Apr-22 by clicking this link here:
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/easter-sunday-2-divine-mercy-sunday-ep-361-year-c-2022 (EPISODE:361 )
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This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday, where we recall the absolute mercy and love that Jesus has for all humanity.

Speaking of God's divine mercy. God's mercy is better and more profound than any human mercy or compassion could even imagine. We cannot downplay the significance of how different Jesus' reunion with his disciples is after he rose from the dead, from how the expectations of the world might be… After all, Jesus had been betrayed and abandoned by most of his followers and almost all of his disciples. Only a few loyal women stayed with him through it all… his chosen disciples mostly scattered in fear. The one Jesus chose to be the rock on which he would build his church, denied him three times. Now he has risen and he returns to meet them. One would naturally expect, (if this were merely an earthly drama), that there would be revenge, retribution, or at least an extended session of guilt trips and finger-pointing. But no. And that is the miracle and the message of Christ. No recriminations, no punishments! There is not a hint of judgement in our Lord's return. He does not even punish Thomas for his doubt and the doubting apostles' demands before he would believe the news that Our Lord had indeed risen.

Christ meets Thomas where he is at.. and shows Thomas what he needed to be assured… he shows him his hands and side… That is mercy. That is compassion. It is also service and love. These are God's ways which are so very different from many of the ways of the world….

In the Easter narratives…. "The risen Jesus is encountered by different disciples in different situations and different ways….
• Mary Magdalene recognised the risen Jesus only when he called her by name.
• The two disciples travelling along the road towards Emmaus, did not realise WHO this stranger was who walked along with them…. until they saw him break bread ….. and then they realised that their hearts had already been burning with fervour as they had walked along the road….. but they had not recognised the signs of Christ's presence …. But the disciples would get better and better at recognising Christ in the Eucharist… and in the word of God and in the stranger… and in the burning energy of God's good news…
• and then again today….. some people do not recognise Jesus until they touch the wounds of the suffering one…..
May we continue to recognise Christ's presence, whenever we touch the woundedness of those around us and offer support and strength….

It could be argued that in fact it is not Jesus whom Thomas doubts, but rather, Thomas is expressing doubt in his fellow disciples.

So, this passage can also be saying, "do not be tempted to doubt the proclamation of the Disciples and your fellow believers"…. This is the constant message of the church throughout its two thousand and more years of history. That Jesus has truly risen! He is risen indeed! Even if we have not seen it for ourselves, or touched the very wounds of the risen Christ, we trust and believe in the firm and consistent testimony of those apostles who
did see him and who did touch his hand and side and took broken bread from his hands….and who watched the Lord also eat bread and fish himself - not as a spirit but as true flesh and blood human. And we believe in the words of the apostles which are written in scripture so that we now share in their message and believe, and also share fully in the life of the risen Lord, that Jesus offers us to us all….

We need the community…. And we need that important gathering together to unite our hearts and minds to that of Christ and his gospel…. We know implicitly that coming together as the Body of Christ, the church, is never an added extra… there is no such thing as a solo Christian… even when we work at times individually….we are nevertheless united in a common bond with Christ and one another. The community of disciples, the church, ensures that we are always one in Christ…. And not merely walking to the beat of our own individual drum………… nor making up our own faith and practice as we go.

Thomas, in the gospel, is so inspiring…. he doubted….but he did not leave…. he was still with the disciples the next week….. he struggled…..but the others did not reject him……. and Jesus strengthened him in his struggle and doubts……….. Thomas is a gift to us in another way. He shows us that the apostles were not gullible or foolish. What they experienced in the Risen Jesus was the experience of sensible people, just like you and me. Thinking people, who do not easily swallow everything we are told, but nevertheless, they truly did experience Jesus risen body and soul and this is what they have steadfastly passed on to all future generations. This is the testimony of sensible, deep-thinking people who know what they mean and mean what they say.

Today we know that Our Lord is certainly worth trusting in, and all His promises are true….. we can thank Thomas for Jesus confirming that for all future generations…. including us here and now….
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Reference:

Fr Paul W. Kelly;

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

Richard J. Leonard;

MONASTERY OF CHRIST IN THE DESERT. ABBOT'S HOMILY.

Image: Shutterstock licensed Item ID: 1055941625 Venezia (Venice), Italy. 2 February 2018. The painting of Resurrected Jesus Christ with Thomas the apostle and other apostles by Sebastiano Santi in 'Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli' church. Contributor: Adam Jan Figel


Second Sunday of Easter. Year C. Divine Mercy Sunday (24-Apr-22) (EPISODE: 361)
The Lord be with you.
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{{May Our Lord's Mercy renew you.}}

my brothers and sisters, to prepare ourselves tocelebrate the sacred mysteries, let us call to mind our sins.
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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Ps 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24. "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION ().
Alleluia, alleluia! You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me; happy those who have not seen me, but still believe.

Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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PREFACE: Easter I
Euch Prayer II
(pre+post variation: v2-short)
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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 my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here.
NB - It is often a week or so Ahead:
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- "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: - RODE-NT-USB-mini

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

Sound Processing: iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

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

May God bless and keep you.

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



Many thanks,

The Parish Team

(Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish sends these emails in order to speedily keep in touch with parishioners, including for the occasional urgent/emergency emails affecting parish schedules (which has come in handy already for several unexpected events in the past - which people were grateful to receive quickly - So, we ask that you please consider keeping subscribed to this mailing list, as it helps us keep in touch in all sorts of changing situations. We have had times when parishioners said they did not know of an important development within the parish and it turns out that they had opted out of this central email).

Saturday, April 16, 2022

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

 


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

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

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

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

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

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

He defeats the power of destruction and transformed the world

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

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

Fr Paul W. Kelly


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


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

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

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

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

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

Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      RODE-NT-USB-mini

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

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

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

May God bless and keep you.

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