Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year A - Sunday, April 30, 2023 (EPISODE- 418)

Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year A - Sunday, April 30, 2023 (EPISODE- 418)

Readings for Sunday, April 30, 2023 - Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year A
FIRST READING: Acts 2:14a, 36-41
Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6. "The Lord is my shepherd, there is nothing I shall want"
SECOND READING: 1 Pet 2:20b-25
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 10:14). Alleluia, alleluia! I am the good shepherd, says the Lord. I know my sheep and mine know me.
GOSPEL: John 10:1-10

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1074985220 - BOLOGNA, ITALY - APRIL 18, 2018: The icon of Christ as the Good Shepherd in church Chiesa di San Pietro by Giancarlo Pellegrini. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Renata Sedmakova
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year A - Sunday, April 30, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-4a-fourth-sunday-of-easter-a-ep-418  (EPISODE-418 )
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This Sunday is packed with lots of beautiful themes, It is often known as "Good Shepherd" Sunday, due to the wonderful image of the shepherd that flows through the psalm and the Gospel, and the other readings, Because of the theme of the shepherd, it is also traditionally the weekend we particularly pray for vocations to the priesthood, that the Lord will raise up shepherd after his own heart, to guide and lead his beloved people,

Jesus is our Good shepherd and he walks along with us along our whole life journey, He knows us by name, he leads us by safe paths, He cares about what happens to us, He is always interested to hear us tell him of our hopes, our fears, our disappointments and our failures, and he is there to reassure us and give us strength and to affirm to us that if we keep trusting in him, the love of God has the final word in our life, and that final word is the promise that we are beloved sons and daughters of God, forever ,
 
The gospel speaks of the image of the Sheepfold:  Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep, Christ's offering of his whole self and even his life (down to the very last drop of his blood) is remembered by us at each and every Eucharist, In our Liturgy we constantly speak of this mysterious thing called the "Paschal Mystery", which is actually about the mystery of Jesus (who is the spotless Paschal lamb,-  the Passover lamb-, who was sacrificed so that we might be saved), Through Jesus' life, teaching, ministry, and his suffering, death and Resurrection we are saved. In every Eucharistic prayer,(actually, throughout every Mass), this Paschal Mystery is recalled and remembered,

Christ warns us about false shepherds…..    and …….I have to smile at a rather amusing, but all-too-true old Latin proverb that goes something like this:
 "It is the role of a good shepherd to shear their flock, not to fleece them!!" (Latin proverb, adapted).

Sadly, the world has witnessed plenty of examples of bad leaders, who were motivated not for the good of others, but their own ambitions and ego.

Jesus gives an example of himself as a good shepherd, the perfect leader. He puts his people first, he knows them personally, and he is not in it for himself, and he literally "gives of himself completely"  for our sakes.  What a superb example and model for leadership/,/, Christ uses the image of the 'shepherd BEING the gate, ---- (there would not be a timber gate, but rather.. the shepherd themselves, would lie across the opening of the sheepfold and their body would act as a human gate, Nothing could pass by without disturbing the shepherd, who would risk life and limb to protect his sheep. The true leader puts themselves on the line. The good shepherd literally puts their body on the line, for those they care for.  ,
 
It is interesting that the gospel today, says "the sheep know their master's voice and will not follow a stranger," Who would follow a stranger? but here is the modern problem,,, with our modern, secular world, and with the internet, and so many different types of media and communication, advertising, and so many competing values in the world, all telling us, 'pick me, pick me," I am GOOD for you, you need this, we are being bombarded with competing and contrasting values , and many different shepherds, We are constantly assailed with voices claiming to be our friends, to be the voice of our master, and offering easy solutions to complex problems…… sometimes telling us what we want to hear rather than what the gospel calls us to………  and so, we are tempted to follow those voices out into the wilderness.

We need to be alert to the fact that we need to really discern and to distinguish the voice of our lord, from the voice of false shepherds. It is not easy, but more necessary than ever.
We too need to reflect on the values of Jesus in the gospels, and the tradition and teachings of the church to help us recognize the true voice of the good shepherd,
 
At times it can be very difficult to recognise the voice of Jesus, as there are many who claim to speak in his name, A useful guide is to look at people's actions and priorities, We can listen to those whose lives reveal the qualities of Jesus - love, compassion, justice, self-sacrifice, -  Surely, they are reflecting the good shepherd in our midst?  - The big test of authenticity is likely to be this: The real shepherd is not acting to "feather their own nest," but acts in the best interest of the other, willing to give up things for others, not take advantage, not for their own gain or for their own pride, That is a dead giveaway for the fake shepherds,…… for, in them, it is self-satisfaction, self-justification, promotion of their own self-image and interests, There is almost always something in it for them at a very clear point, and something at the expense of others, of the community.
 
The gospel invites us to think of how we as a society discern leaders for civic and roles….   Perhaps it would be better if we put up a "help wanted" sign that each of us responds to, "Help Wanted: Shepherds – dangerous occupation, No personal gain, concern only for others, humble recompense, willing to sacrifice everything for others, willing to risk their lives,"


….Sounds a rather daunting job description!!    I wonder how many takers we would get if this were the application advertisement for people in all kinds of leadership roles.
Thanks are to God, Jesus is our role model, and with Christ, (the Good shepherd's), example, mercy, teaching and grace, servant-leadership can bear good fruit.
 
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References:

References: Fr Paul W. Kelly; some thoughts are taken from "Celebrating the Gospels," by Gaynell Cronin, also Preaching the Word resource; and commentary in St Paul's Sunday missal intro. Also, the picture of a shepherd as the "human gate," is from: https://thepreachersword.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/door-of-sheep.jpg

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1074985220 - BOLOGNA, ITALY - APRIL 18, 2018: The icon of Christ as the Good Shepherd in church Chiesa di San Pietro by Giancarlo Pellegrini. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Renata Sedmakova

To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) -  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks  
 Also found at -   https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk

Fourth Sunday of Easter. Year A  (Sunday, April 30, 2023) (EPISODE- 418)

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (or/ The Lord be with You)
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{{Thanks everyone, and have a grace-filled and compassion-filled week.}}

Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.
Lord Jesus, you are the image of the unseen God: Lord, have mercy.//You are the firstborn of all creation: Christ, have mercy//You are the head of the body, the Church: 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 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6. "The Lord is my shepherd, there is nothing I shall want"

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 10:14). Alleluia, alleluia! I am the good shepherd, says the Lord. I know my sheep and mine know me.
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: Preface III of Easter
Euch Prayer II

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

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: -      Shure MV5 Digital Condenser (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 -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.
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ANZAC DAY MEMORIAL – AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND. - - 25TH APRIL Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish - Mass - Podcast

ANZAC DAY MEMORIAL – AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND. - - 25TH APRIL

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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers, and reflections for Anzac Day, April 25th 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-anzac-day-remembrance-solemnity-in-australia-and-new-zealand-2023

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Readings for ANZAC DAY

First Reading: Is 9:1-6 (p.593): Wide is the dominion of the Lord, in a peace that has no end.

Ps 71:2–4, 7–8, 12–13, 17 (p. 594): Justice shall flourish in his time and fullness of peace forever.
Second Reading  1 Cor 1:18-25 (p.224): God's weakness

(2022) GOSPEL ACCLAMATION John 14:27. Alleluia, alleluia! Peace I leave with you, says the Lord, my own peace I give you. Alleluia!

Gospel – John 14:23-29. The Holy Spirit will teach you everything and remind you of all I have said to you.

Image: {Australia: New South Wales, Sydney. Studio portrait of Len Siffleet in civilian clothes. On 24 October 1943, NX143314 Sergeant Leonard G (Len) Siffleet, along with his two Ambonese companions, was executed by order of Japanese Vice Admiral Kamada, in command of the Japanese fleet at Aitape, for his role as a wireless operator in a commando operation in Japanese occupied New Guinea. Sgt Siffleet was a member of the M Special Unit of the Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD)}. Universal Studios Sydney (Donor C. Mills) - http://cas.awm.gov.au/photograph/P02547.001  

 

On the background of 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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At dawn on this day in 1915, during World War I soldiers from the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, landed at Gallipoli,. 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.

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 continued from 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

{Australia: New South Wales, Sydney. Studio portrait of Len Siffleet in civilian clothes. On 24 October 1943, NX143314 Sergeant Leonard G (Len) Siffleet, along with his two Ambonese companions, was executed by order of Japanese Vice Admiral Kamada, in command of the Japanese fleet at Aitape, for his role as a wireless operator in a commando operation in Japanese occupied New Guinea. Sgt Siffleet was a member of the M Special Unit of the Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD)}. Universal Studios Sydney (Donor C. Mills) - http://cas.awm.gov.au/photograph/P02547.001
Leonard (Len) George Siffleet.
We deliberately choose to remember him from a photo of him before he went off to war. Len was young man from Gunnedah who died – aged only 27 - at a place called Aitape ("pronounced Eye-tarp-ee), on New Guinea's northwest coast on the 24th  October 1943.
I am sad to say, I didn't know his name until recently,  but we all would very much recognise his picture, although we may not have known his name at the time or much about him……    Tragically and horrifically, A photo was taken of him moments before his execution by beheading. It has since become one of World War II's most enduring and powerful images. (We choose not to feature that photo here, rather remember him as he was). 

As journalist Bernard Salt writes: "Every Australian should know Leonard's story.
Siffleet had been captured two weeks prior and tortured. Sadly, I think he would have known his eventual fate. ………. the photo portrays his poise, calm, and unflinching courage. It is a monstrously brutal situation, yet amid the horror, his bravery is palpable and inspirational."

Journalist Bernard Salt continues in his article about Leonard……

"I have a son not much older than Leonard was at that time. I am profoundly conscious that I have enjoyed decades of peace and prosperity because of the silent sacrifices made by the men and women of this generation." ………… Many others suffered the same terrible fate, but no other photographic record has emerged.

It illustrates, yet again,  the personal sacrifices made by Australians in defence of their homeland. At this time, New Guinea was an Australian-administered territory, so Siffleet and others were very much defending our nation from invasion.
And what of the soldiers who witnessed ….such atrocities? We gratefully remember all who gave their lives, and those who survived and suffer… and their families and friends who grieved and suffered along with them.
(Source:  BERNARD SALT,  COLUMNIST. THE WEEKEND AUSTRALIAN MAGAZINE. 12:00AM JANUARY 25, 2020. Thanks to Arthur Holloway for sharing this article with us).

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 CHRIST's 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 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 times 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 continue to break as we witness around the world  shocking and appalling acts of aggression - a terrible lack of respect for human life and dignity… ….
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… We cry out to the Lord, Lord, these acts of hatred, violence, and destruction are intolerable… They are unjust and utterly wrong… We cry out for peace and respect and justice for your beloved people everywhere throughout the world. – we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. …

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 never be forgotten - We are united around the world with people praying and working for peace and end to violence – so that history does not keep repeating itself… and we pray for our leaders (for restraint and for a deep awareness of the good of all humanity), 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 (now well over a hundred years ago, but still deeply relevant today))…. 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..
(EPISODE:  )

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 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. 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 - 2023]
May God bless and keep you.

Third Sunday of Easter. Year A - Sunday, April 23, 2023 (EPISODE- 417)

Third Sunday of Easter. Year A - Sunday, April 23, 2023 (EPISODE- 417)

Readings for Sunday, April 23, 2023 - Third Sunday of Easter. Year A
FIRST READING: Acts 2:14, 22-33 (diff)
Ps 16:1-2a+5, 7-8, 9-10, 11. "Lord, you will show us the path of life."
SECOND READING: 1 Pet 1:17-21
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 24:32). Alleluia, alleluia! Lord Jesus, make your word plain to us. Make our hearts burn with love when you speak.
GOSPEL: Luke 24:13-35

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1585608064 - Ramla, Israel, December 07, 2019: Religious icon on the territory of the ruins of the Byzantine church complex on the territory of Emmaus Nicopolis. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Dmitriy Feldman svarshik
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Third Sunday of Easter. Year A - Sunday, April 23, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-3a-third-sunday-of-easter-a-ep-417  (EPISODE- 417)
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The Gospel this weekend is really wonderful. It has such a richness to it… and many levels of meaning….

The journey of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, is also like a symbol of what happens each time we gather as disciples of Jesus at Eucharist….  when we listen to the word of God in the scriptures, and Christ opens our minds to his word.   And when Christ breaks the bread for us and becomes present to us, in this special way ….. and we too recognize Jesus in the breaking of the bread……. 

 

Another very special thing about this Emmaus journey is the fact that the disciples are talking to a fellow traveller along the road… and show hospitality to this person…. unknown to them this person is Jesus himself…..        it is no coincidence that Jesus becomes present to them in the outsider to whom they show hospitality … and with whom they break bread together…  then their eyes are opened and they recognise Jesus……  if they had not showed hospitality to this person if they had let him go on… they may never have know who they were walking with… and what he had to offer them…..              Jesus told us …  what you do to the least of my brothers and sisters… you do it to ME……            love God, love your neighbour as you love yourself……            so hospitality, community and service are completely interconnected in Jesus' kingdom….

 

Today's gospel reminds us that Jesus is always with us…  always there to encourage us and give us new hope…  he gives his disciples the sacraments to strengthen them on our journey.  Jesus also gives his disciples the power to experience the forgiveness and mercy of God through reconciliation…  which assures us of God's love and care and healing.

 

Our Lord walks along with us on our life journey… he is always interested to hear us tell him of our hopes, our fears… our disappointments and our failures… and he is there to reassure us and give us strength and assure us that if we keep trusting in him, the love of God has the final word in our life….    and it lasts forever…..

 

whenever we gather at Mass, we come together as disciples and friends of Jesus, and we break the bread and drink from the cup….and we believe that this is not just a sign of our connection to Jesus, that God forgives us, renews us and commissions us… we believe that Jesus comes to us in what looks like bread and wine and Jesus comes into our hearts and we become more and more part of Jesus' life…. and go out into our daily lives to live his commandments to show love and care for each other…  this is the unique message of the journey to Emmaus…and when we listen to the scriptures and reflect on the many ways in which Jesus is present and active in our lives, inviting us to listen to him and follow his ways……..we too can say to each other… "did not our hearts burn as Jesus talked to us along the way, and explained the scriptures to us. "

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References:

References: Fr Paul W. Kelly

 

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1585608064 - Ramla, Israel, December 07, 2019: Religious icon on the territory of the ruins of the Byzantine church complex on the territory of Emmaus Nicopolis. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Dmitriy Feldman svarshik

Third Sunday of Easter. Year A  (Sunday, April 23, 2023) (EPISODE- 417)

The Lord be with you.
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{{I pray this week brings you an ever deeper expereience of his compassion and love.}}

Brothers and sisters, the Lord is full of love and mercy. And so, as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries, let us acknowledge 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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Ps 16:1-2a+5, 7-8, 9-10, 11. "Lord, you will show us the path of life."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 24:32). Alleluia, alleluia! Lord Jesus, make your word plain to us. Make our hearts burn with love when you speak.
Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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PREFACE: Preface II of Easter
EUCH PRAYER II

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{I pray this week brings you an ever deeper expereience of his compassion and love.}

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: -      Shure MV5 Digital Condenser (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 -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.
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Second Sunday of Easter. Year A. Divine Mercy Sunday - Sunday, April 16, 2023 (EPISODE-416 )

Second Sunday of Easter. Year A. Divine Mercy Sunday - Sunday, April 16, 2023 (EPISODE-416 )

Readings for Sunday, April 16, 2023 - Second Sunday of Easter. Year A. Divine Mercy Sunday
FIRST READING: Acts 2:42-47
Ps 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24. "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting."
SECOND READING: 1 Pet 1:3-9
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 20:29). 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 Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2125590809. Painting. Jesus Christ and Saint Thomas.- Catholic church. Togo. 06-30-2014 -Important information -Editorial Use Only.Photo Contributor: godongphoto

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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Second Sunday of Easter. Year A. Divine Mercy Sunday - Sunday, April 16, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-2a-second-sunday-of-easter-a-ep-416-pauls-interim-version  (EPISODE-416 )
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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 more profound than any human mercy or compassion could 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 is risen and he returns to meet them… would not one 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…. there is not a hint of judgement in our Lord's return…. He does not even punish Thomas for his doubt and his demands before he would believe the news that Our Lord had indeed risen.

 

Christ meets Thomas where he is. 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 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….

 

 The common interpretation of this scene of St Thomas doubting … is that he doubts that Jesus had been raised from the dead. ……..But if we look at this incident very carefully, it could be argued that, in fact, it is not Jesus whom Thomas doubts, but rather, Thomas is expressing doubt in his fellow disciples. In fact, when Jesus appears to them seven days later, Thomas has the opportunity to share in the experience of the Risen Lord and, like the others, immediately confesses Easter faith.

 

So, this passage can also be saying….. do not be tempted to doubt the proclamation of the Disciples…. This is the church's constant message throughout its two thousand and more years of history,… that Jesus is truly risen…. Even if we have not seen it for ourselves and touched the very wounds of the risen Christ, … we trust in the testimony of those apostles who did see him and who did touch his hand and side and took broken bread from his hands…. and whose words 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….

 

The first reading gives a picture of the early Christian church community as it grows in numbers and strength, with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The apostles are doing what Jesus did. Jesus is working in and through them. The first reading mentions that they all met by common agreement, and it illustrates in the first reading some ways in which this Christian community was a powerful source of Christ's healing to those in need.

 

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 individually….we are 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 drum………… nor making up our faith as we go.

 

In a world where individualism is strong and a deeply valued quality….. the idea of being united and focusing on unity (in Christ) whilst at the same time not denying the value of unity in diversity is a careful balancing act, not to be taken lightly…

 

Jesus wants us to be ONE IN HIM….. he wants to unite us in the communion of his loving relationship with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Jesus wants us to be united in his belief and experience as the Risen Son of God… who invites us to share in his life and participate in his Kingdom forever.

 

 We pray for the grace to be people of unity and healing…. who constantly act and work in ways that build up unity, and protect against fragmentation…..

 

 We pray for the ability to see and act in ways that put the needs of others up there with our needs….. so that we might see the whole picture of our participation in one big family….. and not just a lifelong 'solo act'.

 

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……….. at times in life… we will have doubts and fears…… Jesus shows us all that we are right to trust in his promises, even when we do not always experience the confirmation of the truth of these promises with our own eyes, hands and ears…… 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 they are told. Still, 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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References:

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 Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2125590809. Painting. Jesus Christ and Saint Thomas.- Catholic church. Togo. 06-30-2014 -Important information -Editorial Use Only.Photo Contributor: godongphoto
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.


Second Sunday of Easter. Year A. Divine Mercy Sunday  (Sunday, April 16, 2023) (EPISODE- 416)

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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{{Thank you for giving generously of your time and prayer.}}

My brothers and sisters, we have gathered to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, - so let us pause and reflect upon our sins, so as to rejoice in God's loving mercy.
Lord Jesus, you are mighty God and Prince of peace. Lord have mercy// You are Son of God and the Son of Mary. Christ have mercy// You are Word made flesh, the splendour of the Father. Lord have mercy.
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Ps 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24. "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 20:29). Alleluia, alleluia! You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me; happy those who have not seen me, but still believe.
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 I of Easter
Eucharistic Prayer II

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{Thank you for giving generously of your time and prayer.}

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 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: -      Shure MV5 Digital Condenser (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 -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++