The Solemnity of All Saints - (Special) 2023

 The Solemnity of All Saints - (Special) 2023

Readings for
THE LITURGY OF THE WORD

First Reading: Revelation 7:2-4. 9-14
Psalm: Ps 23:1-6 "Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face."
Second Reading: 1 John 3:1-3
Gospel Acclamation: Matthew 11:28 Come to me all you that labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord.
Gospel: Matthew 5:1- 12
 

Image Credit: Shutterstock Photo ID: 2347316281 Candle lights on graves and tombstones at a cemetery in Poland during All Saints Day, Zaduszki day, and Day of the Dead. Lit candles illuminate the graves at a Christian cemetery at night.Photo Contributor: Mazur Travel

Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for All Saints - First November, 2023 by clicking this link here https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-solemnity-of-all-saints-special-2023

  

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* Prologue: This feast began in the East to commemorate all martyrs and was progressively adopted in the West. Celebrated on this day in the eighth century and soon widely observed. Honoured today are all holy men and women in glory with Christ: known or unknown, mighty, or lowly, all whose lives were modelled on the Beatitudes and on the great commandment of love.

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The feast of "All Saints" is the feast of all Christians. In fact, being a disciple of Jesus implies striving to be holy as our heavenly Father is holy (Mt 5:48). We are all called to holiness…  and we are all called to be saints…  In fact, in the early years of the church, the Saints was a title used to describe members of the Christian Church living and dead…  since eternal life with Christ begins with baptism….  It has already begun but is not fully revealed…. 

Matthew's Gospel tells us that those who are sensitive to the needs of the poor will enter the kingdom.

The eight beatitudes speak to us of the fundamental attitudes of Jesus' disciples and of all Christians. Disciples must totally trust God (poor in spirit); they must share the suffering of others (those who weep). Just as the Lord is, (Mt 11:30), so too must we be kind to others (the meek). They must fervently want justice to reign in this world (those who hunger and thirst for righteousness). Moreover, disciples must bear in their hearts the poor (the needy) - they must be ready to soften their hearts to those who are trying to turn back ..(the merciful). They must be consistent and upright in their lives (the pure in heart). They must do their best to establish peace as the outcome of justice (the peacemakers). All of this means that they will be opposed by those who refuse to recognize the rights of others (the persecuted for righteousness' sake).  Matthews Gospel goes on to put this in practical terms….. disciples are those who feed the hungry, give a drink to the thirsty, etc., in other words, those who are committed to the needy. The poor in spirit translate their love of God and of others by being in solidarity with the real poor in a material sense. In their actions for the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed, they will encounter Jesus himself: "you did it to me." And encountering the Lord is a grace.

As Pope Saint John Paul II wrote, "It is impossible to embrace the cause of the poor, and in doing so, verify our fidelity to Christ (see John Paul II, On Human Work, no. 8), without causing resistance and hostility, without going through "the great ordeal" (Rv 7:14). Receiving the grace of being children of God (1 Jn 3:1) involves creating practical and authentic friendship and justice in our society."

Having said all this, we have known many people like this…   we know them now…  in our families, in our friends, colleagues, members of our communities…   People who have modelled in their lives, their attitudes and decisions have lived the Beatitudes…  so they saw God as he really is… and continue to see him in Heaven. 

This feast is especially for all the unnamed saints,… officially proclaimed saints have their own special feasts and memorials.. (though of course they are included today), but this is especially the feast day of the saints not listed on earthly books, but listed in God's book of life…  and we have known them.. we have lived with them.. we have been inspired by them…  we hope to join them in heaven…  

Sometimes the practicality of the Beatitudes is illustrated best by contrast…  those who are puffed up and proud, and self-focused…  those without empathy for others…  those who refuse to be kind…. Those who make excuses for injustices when they could do something to help… those who are violent and ruthless to those who cry out to mercy -even those whose predicament is sometimes of their own making…./   These people are not the ones who will inherit the Kingdom.  The Kingdom is NOT inherited by those who crush others under their feet on their way to their goals…  they are not those who abuse and use others for their own selfish ends… nor are they ones who have no concern for the plight of the poor, the outcast, the sinner, the needy….  The ones who see no fraternity in people of other places, cultures or situations, when these people are truly our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Rather, It is those who stand up for and with those who call for justice and peace who stand before God's presence.  

We thank and praise God for inspiring us by the close example of these wonderful 'lights of Christ in our lives'…  may we continue to live these virtues in our own lives…   The saints pray for us, before the very face of God. We are in wonderful company.
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

 

Prologue by Fr Paul Kelly,  (Ref. Liturgy Brisbane)

Gutiérrez, G. and Dees, C. (1997). Sharing the Word through the liturgical year. 1st ed. Maryknoll: Orbis Books. Pp. 278-9

Image Credit: ShutterStock Photo ID: 2347316281 Candle lights on graves and tombstones at a cemetery in Poland during All Saints Day, Zaduszki day, and Day of the Dead. Lit candles illuminate the graves at a Christian cemetery at night. Photo Contributor: Mazur Travel

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All Saints 

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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Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins,
and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

I confess to almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do, through my fault, through my fault,* through my most grievous fault; therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin, all the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.
Lord have Mercy
Christ Have Mercy
Lord Have Mercy
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Memorial Acclamation

We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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all saints PREFACE

Euch prayer two 

Communion side. pwk: RH
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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

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.

[ Production - KER - 2023]

May God bless and keep you.

 

 

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A . - Sunday, October 29, 2023 (EPISODE:445 )

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A . - Sunday, October 29, 2023
(EPISODE:445 )

Readings for Sunday, 29 October 2023
FIRST READING: Exod 22:20-26
Ps 18:2-3a, 3b-4, 47+51. "I love you Lord, my strength."
SECOND READING: 1 Thess 1:5c-10
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 14:23). Alleluia, alleluia! All who love me will keep my words, and my Father will love them and we will come to them.
GOSPEL: Matt 22:34-40

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 469506470 - Matthew 22:39 Key Bible Verses on the background of the cross on a hill, Matthew in Chapter 22, verse 39. Holy Bible. Photo Contributor: Take Photo
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A . - Sunday, October 29, 2023 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-thirtieth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-445/s-QN6inTReSfE  
(EPISODE:445 )
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Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 469506470 - Matthew 22:39 Key Bible Verses on the background of the cross on a hill, Matthew in Chapter 22, verse 39. Holy Bible. Photo Contributor: Take Photo

*Prologue Fr Paul W. Kelly

-  [Gospel values included in the readings: Love God, Love Neighbour as self. Justice, especially to the stranger and outcast]

 

"There are many examples of how, even after the busiest days, Jesus would go up into the hills, to a lonely place, and spend the night praying to His heavenly Father.  So, it is fair to say Jesus' whole life was to worship and praise the Father. 

There are also many examples of how Jesus spent himself in service to others.

 

His whole life was one act of service and love to his neighbour…that is,  all in need around him…..  

 

These two complete realities must be two sides of the same coin…. And are not in any way in contradiction.

 

The great saint John Chrysostom once said:  "I cannot believe in the salvation of those people who do not work for the salvation of their neighbours." 

 

Another great monk was once heard to say to his brothers (when they focused too much on rules and not on the heart of the gospel message….) -"My friends, you have torn the gospel of Christ iN two….//.

 

There are two great commandments: -  show your Love for God by how you love your neighbour (just as you would love and care for yourself).  (or perhaps it is more accurate to say there really is only one commandment to love.. which has two facets to it….)

 

In any case……Splitting up these two commands seriously distorts Christ's  gospel……  

 

There are two extremes to be avoided!   some would emphasise the worship of God to the point where doing anything practical for those in need seems to become an optional extra……. this is not the gospel of Jesus Christ……/// 

 

The other extreme is not right either…. some people are so caught up in social justice and practical action that they lose sight of the fact that Christian justice (Christian charity) always flows out of our relationship with God and that we are all God's children… and that it is not only our human actions… but God's will that is important….  so if someone emphasises social response and neglects prayer, worship and a sense of faith in God who is the author and Sustainer of us all……..   as essential as practical care for those in need is, it would lose its focus if we were ever to disconnect it to worship and prayer….. (it would become something merely humanistic….  And it could reflect a faulty sense that humans are their own saviours and can do all things themselves without reference to God…..)

 

Jesus shows us that both prayer and action are possible and necessary…..   Again…I must say,  I always feel that the Catholic groups of lay people such as St Vincent de Paul Society The Surfers Catholic Ladies Group,  and Rosies (to name but a few but not exclude the countless other groups that do the great work)…  are wonderful examples and expressions of both important aspects: Prayer and Action.

 

They certainly focus on practical action: - helping those in need, those who are hungry, seeking shelter, needing clothing, and also they visit people….  also, integral to this, they meet regularly to pray and reflect on Christ's gospel…  This is vital – Connection to the person of Christ makes sense of and empowers their care for their neighbour…. 

 

Some many other groups and individuals model this,..// and we give thanks for them all.  

In Jesus' great commandment – which is truly a "masterpiece of summing up thousands of biblical rules and regulations and observances into a few amazing words………to enshrine the very heart of its meaning: "Love God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength… and love your neighbour as yourself…….." It becomes clear that every other person is truly our neighbour, especially when the person is in need.  We must be loving neighbours to all people who come into our lives.  No one can be excluded from being our neighbour.

 

Love of neighbour is at the heart of serving God /and being faithful to what God is asking of us.//  Love of neighbour is not simply an optional part of our Christianity.

 

Saint Paul, in the second reading, says it very well…..   We must take Christ as our model……… We must imitate Christ.  In that imitation of Christ, we can find a whole way of living:  gentleness yet strength in our dealings with others, understanding and accepting others with a clear vision of what is right and wrong.

 

Jesus did not just accept everything as good or anything goes.  He pointed out what was not good. However, Jesus managed to do this whilst consistently keeping his eyes on the primary value of the gospel...   love...  received and given. That is a difficult model to imitate.  Our Lord did not focus on righteousness for its own sake...   his emphasis was on love and compassion and the good of all....  anything he did it was primarily motivated by the love that flowed out of him as God the Son.  This is another example of the cross of Jesus. This suffering comes from living in the right relationship with the Father and one another whilst always keeping the point of this way of living front-and-centre....love, reverence and compassion. because in the end, it's all about LOVE -  of God, shown in how we love our neighbour. 

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References:

 

Fr Paul W. Kelly

 

Abbot's Homily, The Monastery of Christ in the Desert Homily for October 22 2008.

 

Flor McCarthy. Sundays and Holy Day Liturgies. Year A.

 

Gutierrez, Sharing the Word through the Liturgical Year.

 

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 469506470 - Matthew 22:39 Key Bible Verses on the background of the cross on a hill, Matthew in Chapter 22, verse 39. Holy Bible. Photo Contributor: Take Photo

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Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A .  (Sunday, October 29, 2023)  (EPISODE: 445 )
The Lord be with you.
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{{May Our Lord's Fidelity strenghten you.}} welcome everyone, we gather -  To offer or praise, prayers and intercessions to God. On this Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A .

Coming together as brothers and sisters, with confidence let us ask the Fathers forgiveness, for he is full of gentleness and compassion
Lord Jesus, you were lifted up to draw all people to yourself: Lord, have mercy//You shouldered the cross, to bear our suffering and sinfulness: Christ, have mercy// You open for your people the way from death into life: Lord, have mercy//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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Ps 18:2-3a, 3b-4, 47+51. "I love you Lord, my strength."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 14:23). Alleluia, alleluia! All who love me will keep my words, and my Father will love them and we will come to them.
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PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary I
Eucharistic Prayer II
Communion side.  pwk: 
(theme variation: 1 )

 

(post version: v1-long)

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{thank you so much for taking this time with me to listen to God's word and for praising God for his goodness and care.}

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: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:

"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

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

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

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

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

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

"Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - In memory of William John Kelly (1942-2017) - Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

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

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

Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser.

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

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

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

[ Production -  KER -  2023]

May God bless and keep you.
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Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A. World Mission Day - Sunday, October 22, 2023 (EPISODE:444)

Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A. World Mission Day - Sunday, October 22, 2023
(EPISODE:444)

Readings for Sunday, 22 October 2023

FIRST READING: Isa 45:1, 4-6
Ps 96:1+3, 4-5, 7-8, 9-10. "Give the Lord glory and honour."
SECOND READING: 1 Thess 1:1-5b
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Phil 2:15d-16a). Alleluia, alleluia! Shine on the world like bright stars. You are offering it the word of life.
GOSPEL: Matt 22:15-21

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1545751649 - Christian Cross at The Colosseum. It is an elliptical amphitheatre built of concrete and stone, built in 80 AD under by Emperor Titus. It is an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. Rome, Italy, Feb 2015 -  Important information - Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Wagner Santos de Almeida
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Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A. World Mission Day - Sunday, October 22, 2023 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-twenty-ninth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-444/s-7DPc88s9a7w  (EPISODE:444 )
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GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
"Render to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." (Matthew 22:21).
 
The first reading from Isaiah is really fascinating. It speaks about God declaring King Cyrus to be a "shepherd," his "Anointed One"-

King Cyrus might not mean much to us thousands of years after he lived and reigned. But, it was extraordinary in his day. King Cyrus was the founding ruler of the Great Persian Empire, and although he was not Jewish, (and was of another religion), was extremely supportive of the Jewish people and issued an edict that allowed the "Jewish population to return to the Promised Land from Babylon, and he also allowed them to rebuild the temple and gave them back their treasures. . The book of Isaiah honours him as a dignified and righteous king. He is the only Gentile to be designated as an anointed one of God. The word means. "Messiah," or "a Christ" - a divinely appointed king.

Even those who are not religious, do not profess a religious faith, or have faith different from ourselves may still be enormously instrumental in promoting the values of God's Kingdom. and as such, they may very well be acting as God's servants, friends, and instruments of God's will, even if they would not themselves name it as such.

The Pharisees and Herodians, usually fierce opponents, have come together in an uneasy alliance motivated by a common hatred. They are trying to trap Jesus- They attempt a hypocritical ploy where they ask about Our Lord's loyalty to the Roman Emperor by asking whether he recommends payment of Roman taxes. They are hypocrites: The Pharisees portrayed themselves as fiercely nationalistic. They hated the Herodians, who supported King Herod, who had "sold out" as a puppet of the Roman Empire. And here they were, asking after Jesus' loyalty to the Romans. The only ones touching the coin with Caesar's head on it… are the Pharisees and the Herodians. They ought to have seen the coin as unclean and repellant. Jesus likely kept his hands right off these coins. .

Did they care about government and religious relations?. Very Likely not! They were setting Jesus up in a seemingly "no-win" situation. However, Our Lord answered wisely by affirming that there is a duty to observe civil laws and procedures but that we also owe ultimate allegiance to God, who created all things. There does not need to be a clear-cut Religion vs. Government ("either one or the other but not both"),  line here. It requires discernment. It is possible that supporting civil projects gives glory to God… It is also possible that serving God can be at the service of civil needs. Our Lord is not trying to build an impenetrable "them and us'' mentality, unlike his opponents.

 The true test is how self-serving our actions really end up being.(Or as St. Paul says.,… in the second reading, putting faith into action. and not merely words. but as power, as the Holy Spirit and as utter conviction…). Jesus was utterly sure that he owed absolutely EVERYTHING to The Father, and did not make excuses, Instead, he emptied himself entirely in service and love. This humbles us and makes us truly grateful. May we be strengthened to follow his example. in our daily life and actions…
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References:

Homily Fr Paul W. Kelly

Barclay, W. (1975). The Gospel of Matthew. Part II. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: St. Andrew Press.

"RENDER TO GOD WHAT IS GOD'S"- JOEL SCHORN

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1545751649 - Christian Cross at The Colosseum. It is an elliptical amphitheatre built of concrete and stone, built in 80 AD under Emperor Titus. It is an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. Rome, Italy, Feb 2015 -  Important information - Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Wagner Santos de Almeida

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Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A. World Mission Day  (Sunday, October 22, 2023)  (EPISODE: 444 )
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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{{May Our Lord's justice sustain you}} welcome everyone, we gather -  Reflect upon the Holy Scriptures On this Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A. World Mission Day

As we prepare to celebrate the paschal mystery, let us admit our failings and ask the Lord for pardon and strength.
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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Memorial Acclamation
3. Save us, Saviour of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.
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Ps 96:1+3, 4-5, 7-8, 9-10. "Give the Lord glory and honour."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Phil 2:15d-16a). Alleluia, alleluia! Shine on the world like bright stars. You are offering it the word of life.
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PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary VI
Eucharistic Prayer One
Communion side.  pwk: 
(theme variation: 4 )

(post version: v2-long)

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{my heartfelt thanks for your participation in this time of reflection, prayer and praise.}

Go forth, the Mass is ended.

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

To listen to 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: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:

"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

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

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

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

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

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

"Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - In memory of William John Kelly (1942-2017) - Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

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

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

Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser.

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

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

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

[ Production -  KER -  2023]

May God bless and keep you.
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Twenty-eighth Sunday of the Year. Year A - Sunday, October 15, 2023 (EPISODE:443)

Twenty-eighth Sunday of the Year. Year A - Sunday, October 15, 2023
(EPISODE:443)

Readings for Sunday, 15 October 2023
FIRST READING: Isa 25:6-10a
Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6. "I shall live in the house of the Lord, all the days of my life."
SECOND READING: Phil 4:12-14, 19-20
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Eph 1:17-18). Alleluia, alleluia! May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our heart. That we might see how great is the hope to which we are called.
GOSPEL: Matt 22:1-14 or 22:1-10

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: Stock Illustration ID: 536007283 - The parable of the King invited all to his Banquet - Illustration Contributor: askib
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for the Twenty-eighth Sunday of the Year. Year A - Sunday, October 15, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-twenty-eighth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-443  
(EPISODE: 443)
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 PROLOGUE: - *28a - Gospel values included in the readings: We are deeply reassured that God walks with us to protect us and accompany us through all the highs and lows of life. We are in good and faithful hands. God's invitation is for all, but not all will accept it. Avoid apathy and distraction

 

*This parable reminds us, that the invitation is for all, but the invitation can be refused. The Kingdom is open to all but guaranteed to none.  We don't earn the Kingdom, but sadly can decline it, which would be madness!*

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Hearing these wonderful readings is deeply reassuring this weekend.

We are given the beautiful picture of the heavenly banquet feast where there are no more tears, illness, suffering, or death. On the lips of everyone are the sacred words of Scripture: "See, we were right to put our hope and trust in God. Because he has saved us."  

 

This is echoed in the superb psalm. The Lord is my Shepherd.  He knows us each by name. He protects and reassures us along the pathway of life so that we are never alone, come what may. We will be okay. Our God is with us and faithful in all his promises to us.

 

We will live in the Lord's house forever and ever, taking our place at the Heavenly wedding feast prepared for us (and for all) who accept God's wonderful invitation.

 

The Lord's parable reminds us that anyone invited to the forever feast is not invited initially because they deserve it or earned it. We are expected to live according to God's ways, but God's grace gives us the ability to achieve this way of life. We did not initially deserve the invitation, but is entirely the gracious initiative of God. Without God, we cannot deserve his invitation or earn a place in the kingdom without God's grace.  God's invitation is generous, loving and open to anyone who says "yes." – God loves us freely and wonderfully…  This love of God invites us into the family of God, and God deems us worthy of this invitation because God lovingly wants us to be part of his family. So, we should never get complacent or live proud lives, assuming we are entitled and guaranteed to receive what is always a free and beautiful gift – always to be treasured and held in awe and humility. And never taken for granted.

 

Saint Paul's letter today is superb too.  He says: "Look, in my ministry, I have been full of joy, and I have had times of sorrow and suffering too. I have been starving and satisfied at different times. Now, I am contented to live my life within the providence of God's care and demand nothing other than to take things as they come. Remaining available, eager, but detached; to respond to God's word and help build up God's Kingdom.  The Kingdom of God is not for the faint-hearted. It will be given to those who respond to the invitation, and who are prepared to embrace fully its different values and ways. With God's grace and God's vision, no hardship will be unendurable, and no eventuality will change our journey towards God.

 

We are being asked by Our Lord:  "Can you imagine God's vision for the future?  What the Kingdom looks like through God's eyes? Will you accept how different the thoughts, attitudes and priorities are for those who are citizens of the Kingdom?"

 

There is no room for arguments about who's "IN" and who's "OUT"!

 

The first ones to receive the invitation God's banquet feast are the respectable-looking people, who outwardly show they wish to live according to God's ways. However, when the call goes out for people to attend the party, they are busy with other priorities. What distracts them is not all bad, (some things were quite pressing: Properties, businesses, farms), but they are putting their focus into things that would eventually disappear and they had forgotten to invest in the Kingdom that lasts forever.

In Our Lord's time, wedding invitations went out well in advance and were accepted definitively. The final call, just before the event occurred, was a mere formality. It would be an unspeakable insult to decline when the final call arrived. They had already accepted and had made already their firm commitment.  They miss out! And so, the master sends out messengers to the highways and byways. That is, to everyone, respectable or not. All are invited. From now on, the invitation is being made, (not to a select and exclusive minority of privileged people), but in the wider public forum - to ALL people. All who respond are welcome. There is no special preference anymore.

 

Sinners, outcasts, Gentiles and Jews were all invited.

 

Those accepting the invitation are not any better than those who declined. Except the poor and the outcasts, not having any other options and seeing what a rare gift this was, accepted and attended.  Again it reminds us not to be complacent or superior, as all of us are truly blessed to be invited but we might have tickets on ourselves if we think we can presume that we deserve a permanent place without responding to it.  (It is a reminder that in this modern day and age one hears a lot of stories of people who have invited others to a party or a function and many accept but then don't turn up or cancel at the last minute, or others don't reply but turn up, causing great distress to their hosts.  The old-fashioned courtesies still apply).   This parable reminds us, the invitation is for all, but the invitation can be refused. The Kingdom is open to all but guaranteed to none.  We don't earn the Kingdom but we sadly can decline it; which would be madness!

 

And one final thought. The waifs and strays enter the banquet but then one gets kicked out for not wearing a wedding garment.  It seems unfair at first glance. However, the invitation is for all, but acceptance means a change of standards and values symbolized by being clothed in the garment that resembles and represents the Baptismal Garment of goodness and Christ-like living.  Wearing that robe with devotion and humility.. and keeping the gospel values of Christ in our hearts, very central and very safe.

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References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly

 

Bergant, D. and Fragomeni, R. (2001). Preaching the new lectionary. Year A. Collegeville, Minn.: Liturgical Press.Cronin, G. (2003). Celebrating the Gospels. 1st ed. Liguori, Mo.: Liguori. 372-3,

 

DeBona, G. (2013). Between the Ambo and the altar. Year A. 1st ed. Collegeville, Minnesota: Liturgical Press. 263-266

 

Gutiérrez, G. and Dees, C. (1997). Sharing the Word through the liturgical year. 1st ed. Maryknoll: Orbis Books.  P. 239-40

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: Stock Illustration ID: 536007283 - The parable of the King invited all to his Banquet - Illustration Contributor: askib


Twenty-eighth Sunday of the Year. Year A  (Sunday, October 15, 2023)  (EPISODE: 443 )
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 God's Spirit of Fortitude and self control abide with you.}} welcome everyone, we gather -  Listening to God's Word. On this Twenty-eighth Sunday of the Year. Year A

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries by recalling our sins and remembering Christs greater mercy.
You were sent to heal the contrite of heart. Lord, have mercy.// You came to call sinners:Christ, have mercy. //You are seated at the right hand of the Father to intercede for us:Lord, have mercy.//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Memorial Acclamation
2. When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
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Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6. "I shall live in the house of the Lord, all the days of my life."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Eph 1:17-18). Alleluia, alleluia! May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our heart. That we might see how great is the hope to which we are called.
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PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary V
Euch Prayer II
Communion side.  pwk: 
(theme variation: 3 )

 

(post version: v1-short)
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{I am very grateful for you joining us for this special time of prayer and reflection.}

Go in peace.(glorifying the Lord by your life)
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Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

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

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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 (1942-2017) - Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

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

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

Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser.

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

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

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

[ Production -  KER -  2023]

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