Friday, January 07, 2022

The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. - Sunday, January 9, 2022 (EPISODE: 344)

The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time) - Sunday, January 9, 2022 (EPISODE: 344)

Readings for Sunday, January 9, 2022 - The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time)
FIRST READING: Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11
Psalm 104:1b-2, 3-4, 24-25, 27+28, 29-30. "Oh, bless the Lord, my soul!"
SECOND READING: Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 3:16). Alleluia, alleluia! John said: He who is to come is mightier than I. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
GOSPEL: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22

Image Credit:  Shutterstock licensed image. Id: 2087978830 - ST AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES - MARCH 16, 2021 John Baptizing Jesus Christ- St Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine Saint Augustine Florida Dedicated to first Greek Settlers in 1768-  Contributo: Bill Perry
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time) - Sunday, January 9, 2022, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-baptism-of-the-lord-year-c-episode-344?si=80e0aa28e815478c9814f5ff094bbd08&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing  (EPISODE: 344)

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*Prologue (Fr Paul Kelly)
In Luke's Gospel, the voice of the Father is heard not when Jesus was being Baptised, or even when he was arising from the waters, but afterwards, when Jesus is praying
 
In fact, in Luke's Gospel, this happens at key moments when the true identity of Christ is revealed, that Jesus is shown to be praying!   
 
We witness it here in today's Gospel, as he prays after his baptism and again at the Transfiguration, and later even the Apostles, too, receive the Holy Spirit when gathered in prayer at Pentecost.   
 
In prayer, Christ's identity is revealed as the beloved son of the Father. For us his disciples, prayer renews and connects us to God,  and is an affirmation (and renewal) of our baptismal identity  (as children of God), and strengthens us to undertake our ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit.^  
 
One Scripture commentator says in relation to this Gospel today....  "We are told that God rends the heavens to lavish praise on his son— a son who, up to that point, had yet to accomplish much of anything." It must have been indescribably affirming and motivating for Jesus as he was about to begin his most challenging and self-emptying ministry. 
 
Of course, Jesus is God, and he was also fully human. As a human he was as much in need of encouragement, affirmation and strength from his beloved Father in heaven. This Father also is the father of all things….. 
 
Jesus was now officially commissioned in his earthly ministry, (by none less than God the Heavenly Father)/ Commissioned for this incredibly difficult ministry, and Our Lord was absolutely assured of the love and confidence of his father….and could begin his ministry confident that the Father was completely pleased with him and 100% behind what he was doing." (Patrice J. Tuohy).  
 
It is a timely reminder that sincere and constructive affirmation and encouragement is an important human need. We live in a culture where it seems easier to voice criticisms. For far too many people, if they are not happy with something, criticism occurs swiftly, but if they are not unhappy with something, it is not so much praise that follows, but rather deafening silence. We live in a world where there is too often either criticism or silence.  For people who live without affirmation, or who live with constant criticism; they can easily get the message that nothing they do is ever going to be good enough. However, there is a difference between true affirmation and mere compliments. A compliment can be a pleasant thing said, (sometimes a compliment is not even remotely accurate, but something nice that another person might say, just to be 'pleasant'). In contrast, a true affirmation actually confirms the truth as seen and experienced by another. Affirmation and constructive criticism is far better than untrue compliments and a world away from undermining negativity.  
 
 
False praise is also very unhelpful. A person who relies on praise that is not based in reality is misled and denied the chance to hone their skills. The person can be quite deceived about how they are really doing or how they may actually be affecting others; for the better or worse. And then there are those who get good, positive feedback and affirmation. This is priceless and truly affirming. Even when setbacks and the occasional mistake or failure come their way, the person who has healthy feedback and honest affirmation and information, can develop resilience, and is not defeated, because they have firm foundations for their belief in their abilities and their inner value and the strength of their own worth. A person who receives this constructive affirmation and even constructive and sensitive criticism will persevere through many struggles and challenges to increase in excellence.  
 
Our Baptism is intended to be a formal and real adoption into God's family and a true affirmation of our dignity as beloved children of God. God thirsts to give this to each and every person in the world for they are all his cherished children. Baptism has a real, permanent and practical effect on our lives.  Our baptism, echoing Jesus' action in the Jordan, is a huge "Yes" by us and even more importantly - it follows a profound YES by God towards us. We are saying "yes!" - we too want to share Christ's life. Yes, we wish to truly immerse ourselves in the values and 'movement towards God' that Christ's Good News embodies. We want to be united with Jesus who is utterly committed to the establishment of God's loving, just and merciful Kingdom in all its fullness. And we too, are aware of the necessity of the Cross, which is the unavoidable cost of that commitment. There is always going to be a worthwhile cost and the reality of suffering in any love that serves and gives completely. Love that suffers, and actions that give completely of self, are founded firmly in Christ.  Baptism into Jesus is an infinitely more profound action than what was done by people such as John and his disciples. Although a powerful forerunner to Christ's action, John's baptism was a sign of conversion to, and commitment to God's Kingdom, and also, for almost everyone requesting it, a powerful sign of their repentance of sin. These baptisms were powerful but symbolic. They were repeatable. But Baptism into Jesus that we receive, is once and for all. It is a true and effective grafting into the life of Christ, the life of God.  
 
Jesus made holy the waters of baptism, by investing this beautiful action with himself, and pouring into the water everything He stands is and everything for which he stands. 
 
Let us ask Our Lord to keep us committed to his vision of the Kingdom in all ways and at all times; in thought, word and deed.   
  (Reference: Fr Paul W. Kelly)
(Image Credit:  Shutterstock licensed image. Id: 2087978830 - ST AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES - MARCH 16, 2021 John Baptizing Jesus Christ- St Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine Saint Augustine Florida Dedicated to first Greek Settlers in 1768-  Contributo: Bill Perry )
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Homily (Fr Peter Dillon)
Homily Baptism of the Lord Year C 2022

I have only recently come to appreciate how often we priests are connected to important beginnings in people's lives. With the many Baptisms we are asked to celebrate, we come to be part of those times when people like to commemorate with a sense of occasion.

So the relatives are called in, photographers are hired, solemn words are spoken, music is played and there is an atmosphere of rejoicing, a real celebration. But a celebration of what?

By far the most popular sacrament we priests get to celebrate is Baptism. There is so much to celebrate and anticipate. What will this child become? Will they be talented in the arts or sport? Will they grow to have a great influence on the world or will they become wonderful parents themselves passing on a faith tradition to their own children?

While it may be full of joyous anticipation it is also probably the most misunderstood sacrament of all. I hear phrases like "we must get the baby done or even dunked. New parents are so overcome with the wonder of their new arrival that they are too busy to take in what is going to be celebrated. There is so much that we would hope they might understand about the sacrament that by the time it is over, the moment for teaching and learning has past and they have moved on to the next big event.

At baptism, we are formally welcomed and named in the context of the family of God's people. The child is introduced to the community who is to journey with them and assist them as they grow to maturity. At baptism, our bodies are anointed with two different oils, one as a sign of protection, the other as commissioning for future responsibilities.

Sadly some people feel that the sacrament of Baptism is simply a pleasant ritual that publically acknowledges the birth of a child. They see it a purely symbolic. Many parents see baptism as an end rather than a beginning, leaving their child to find their own spiritual way in a world of many contrary values, hoping that their child might pick up some understanding of God along the way.

Baptism, therefore, is not simply acknowledging this new relationship between God and the newly baptised, but it is also an acceptance of participation in the mission of the people of God. We hear that Jesus spent almost 30 years preparing for his Baptism, growing in his understanding of what was being asked of him, being prepared by his parents to take on duties befitting the Son of God. When we welcome the newly baptised we call them 'children of God', just like Jesus. Why is our responsibility any less onerous?

After his Baptism Jesus becomes widely known as a wandering preacher with a unique prophetic mission. Clearly, something happened when Jesus was with John. He underwent a change that gave his life a new direction. John the Baptiser was integral to this breaking forth of Jesus.

We also hear that after his baptism Jesus was at prayer and then the heavens opened as a sign that the Spirit was descending upon the man Jesus. Luke now celebrates this time when God no longer holds back and lets the world know that his son is now ready for his public ministry. He is anointed for his prophetic mission by the Holy Spirit, the great enabler, who helps people achieve God's plan. So Jesus is not alone when he makes his great beginning. He begins his journey in the power of the Holy Spirit and in the love of the Father.

As we look at Jesus public beginning, we should look again at our own beginnings. And if some of them look a bit shabby and half-hearted we take consolation from the Gospel challenge to begin again. This is an appropriate time to see how well we have responded to our call. Have we played an active part in proclaiming the good news, or have we been content to let others do that while we simply listen?

Cardinal Newman once said that he feared nothing would change for most Christians if we found out Christ was a fable. So it is therefore sensible to ask has our life changed for the better, been more fulfilled because of our baptism? Is our life with Christ a gift or a burden?
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References:

prologue by Fr Paul W. Kelly

Homily by fr peter Dillon

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

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

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

SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ;  

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

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


Image Credit:  Shutterstock licensed image. Id: 2087978830 - ST AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES - MARCH 16, 2021 John Baptizing Jesus Christ- St Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine Saint Augustine Florida Dedicated to first Greek Settlers in 1768-  Contributo: Bill Perry


The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time)  (Sunday, January 9, 2022(EPISODE: 344)

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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{{Peace and Patience to you all}}

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pause and reflect upon our sins, in order to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
Lord Jesus, you healed the sick: Lord, have mercy//Lord Jesus, you forgave sinners: Christ, have mercy//Lord Jesus, you give us yourself to heal us and bring us strength: Lord, have mercy.
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Psalm 104:1b-2, 3-4, 24-25, 27+28, 29-30. "Oh, bless the Lord, my soul!"

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

Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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PREFACE: Baptism of the Lord
EP I
Communion side.  pwk:  RH
(theme variation: v6 )
(pre+post variation: v2-long)
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{Many thanks for participating in this time of praise and reflection upon our loving God.}

Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.

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

To listen to 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: 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 -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

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


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

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      Shure MV5 –USB -  

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

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

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

May God bless and keep you.

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Saturday, January 01, 2022

​Epiphany of the Lord. Year C - Sunday, January 2, 2022 (EPISODE: 343)

Epiphany of the Lord. Year C - Sunday, January 2, 2022

(EPISODE: 343)
Readings for Sunday, January 2, 2022 - Epiphany of the Lord. Year C
FIRST READING: Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13. "Lord, every nation on earth will adore you."
SECOND READING: Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Alleluia). Alleluia, alleluia! We have seen his star in the East; and have come to adore the Lord.
GOSPEL: Matt 2:1-12

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Item ID:1224160396 - illustration of Epiphany (Epiphany is a Christian festival)- Contributor Designsoul
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Epiphany of the Lord. Year C - Sunday, January 2, 2022, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-epiphany-year-c-episode-343?si=8a2b626ff5ab47df94201ba246b90475&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing  

(EPISODE: 343)
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*Prologue (Fr Paul Kelly)
On this feast of the Epiphany, we celebrate that God's glory has been revealed to all the nations, and not just the chosen people of Israel. People from every corner of the earth, of every nation and race. Generations of people. God's revelation, God's invitation is for all people of all times and places.   
 
Saint Paul puts it so nicely: 
"God had a secret plan, formed before all ages. And that plan is now revealed, and it is this; in Christ Jesus, the Gentiles, (people from other religious and cultural backgrounds and nations), are now CO-HEIRS with the Chosen people of Israel, members of one and the same body and sharers in the promise of God, through the proclamation of the good news…" 
 
We are one big global human family!    
 
What a treasure these wise men found lying in a manger....   a rare and perfect gift to the world.... 
 
As the poet, Godfrey Rust says:...  
"grace, born out of deprivation, grace born of the endurance of the oppressed, grace born of the hardships of the poor, grace born of the forgiveness of the intolerable, grace borne in the dignity of silence, grace born  ...... In the strength of his weakness he just lay there, (vulnerable,  in need of food, clothing, shelter, protection… and loving care)  ... Our gifts were tokens. 
 
There was nothing more to do  but leave the child to his own (journey towards the cross), 
 and return by different pathways  to our own countrymen and women, 
who seem such strangers to us now, 
yet seeing them as if for the first time, 
how they just lie there, needing to be loved." 
 
(© Godfrey Rust, godfrey@wordsout.co.uk. See here for details of permissions for use.   © Godfrey Rust, www.wordsout)  
 
The journey of the wise men to find the Holy family and particularly the saviour lying in a manger is our journey too. It is our journey of life as well. It is our religious pilgrimage through life. Our journey to conversion, and beyond, is the same.    
 
For, our journey of faith is not an easy one. It is filled with challenges, inconveniences, doubts, obstacles and stumbles. And how many important faith journeys have we heard critical, negative voices, and the 'prophets of doom,' or people who make fun of the rare path a person needs to walk along. The voices of doubt and negativity need to be ignored, endured, moved beyond!    
 
The journey to conversion, the complete commitment of heart and head towards Jesus' good news, is a real odyssey. Like the journey of the Magi, the journey to find Christ is like a "death, and a rising to new life." And we, like the Magi, return home to where we came, but by a new way. 'Seeing things as if for the first time.' In the bible, a change of path symbolises conversion. And after encountering Christ, everything looks different, because Jesus invites us to see it all through his eyes. We now start to see the world around us through the 'lens' of the Good News. We now see life through the eyes of Christ's compassionate care for those most in need. We begin to have a vision for the inclusion of all.   
 
As the Bible passage mentions: "Bethlehem, by no means the least of all the cities'' -  Like Bethlehem, which, at first sight, seems slight and insignificant, and "lesser" – yet, here is where Jesus is born; humble, vulnerable, poor. So too, the poor and the forgotten may appear insignificant to some, but it is through them that the Lord's presence is revealed." (C)  the first shall be last,  the humble and the powerless have the power and glory of God shining from their hearts…. True greatness is in unmeasured love and service…..   
 
The Wise Men realised the meaning of this great mystery..  this irony,    That first Christmas; and it changed everything. 
It changes everything for us too. Come let us worship!   
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Homily (Fr Peter Dillon)   -Epiphany Year C 2022 

 One of the unfortunate issues for middle aged Catholics, is that in our youth and childhood, we were not encouraged to ask questions about the Church, its commandments and its traditions. It was really only since Vatican II in the mid-sixties that we were finally encouraged, not just to ask questions, but to seek the answers for ourselves. Faith, scripture and its explanation were not just the domain of the clergy and religious. All believers were expected to come to an understanding of why we believe as we do. If we don't seek the answers then the foundation becomes weak.

These days we all come with many questions some of great importance, some of little consequence. Today's question might be: What does 'epiphany' mean?  Generally it means a manifestation, a revelation, a showing, a direction for our search, an answer for our questions. The scriptures imply it's a search that everyone must make. Luke in his gospel, has the poor searching, in the form of the shepherds. Today Matthew has the learned and the rich searching, in the form of the Magi. There is room for everybody in this search, shepherds to academics and company executives.

       The Magi are the three searchers who could not find the answer to their questions within their own culture. They were courageous enough to take a risk: to journey to another country in search of Christ. To help us understand the significance of their initiative. The gospel gives us two sets of wise men for contrast. The Magi, whom we know by the mysterious medieval names of Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar. And the second group, the ones when Herod calls in the scribes and Pharisees. He says: I need an expert opinion. They are talking of the birth of the Messiah, where is he to be born. These wise and learned men come up with the answer Bethlehem in Judea and they are right. But that is all they do. We hear no more of them. Their hearts do not follow their heads. They know where the Messiah is to be born, they see others heading towards him, yet they do not go. Why? Are they like us who say: I've got to take my faith more seriously someday? I've got to put more time into my family relationship someday. I've got to do more to help others less fortunate, someday.
The second group of wise men do nothing. They stay aloof from life, they protect themselves against risk. Suppose they had gone on the journey and had discovered the Messiah. Then what? What changes would they have had to make. They were already at the height of their careers, they held positions of power. They were wealthy. Risk all that? Better to talk, be learned consultants to the King. Do nothing.

  The Magi take the risk of inquiry: Who knew what they might meet? The risk of searching, not finding, being sidetracked or lost.
That is why the gospel is so challenging. It's not just a pretty story that conjures up in our minds oriental kings floating over the desert sands on the way to Bethlehem. This gospel story is challenging us. Choose which kind of a wise man or woman you want to be. Are you going to play it safe like the consultant, the expert on all things religious but insulating yourself against the risk of true belief. Or the risk taker who allows the journey to Bethlehem to radically change you.

We are part of a community, a church, a caravan. The Magi do not travel alone. They are a like-minded community committed to the inquiry and action. That is why they are wise. They advise each other, encourage, support. We are in different spaces on this journey some are up front impatiently spurring on the camel; others are foot-dragging at the rear. Some are credulous, prepared to think that any star they see is the real thing. Others are doubters; they will not be convinced until they see the star coming down and pointing at the head of the Messiah himself.

  It is not important where we are in the caravan, as long as we are on the march. As long as we have responded to the gospel and taken the risk. Let the certain encourage the doubters about faith, about God, about life, about love. Let the devout encourage the tepid and lukewarm believers. Let the young and innocent be an example of enthusiasm to the old and sinful.
  This is a great feast of HOPE. Look at us all in this caravan. Children to octogenarians, teenagers, students, doctors, lawyers, Indian chiefs, everything we need for the journey is already here. Perhaps that is the greatest revelation/ epiphany of all.

  Epiphany's promise: Wherever we are on this caravan, we will, every one of us, reach the goal of the journey; that is, we too will look into the face of the Messiah
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References:

prologue by Fr Paul W. Kelly

Homily by fr peter Dillon

A. One commentary –"365 Days with the Lord," asks rather relevantly. 

C. From Gustavo Gutierezz, Sharing the word through the Liturgical year.  

Poem - © Godfrey Rust, godfrey@wordsout.co.uk. See here for details of permissions for use.   © Godfrey Rust, http://www.wordsout.co.uk


Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Item ID:1224160396 - illustration of Epiphany (Epiphany is a Christian festival)- Contributor Designsoul





Epiphany of the Lord. Year C  (Sunday, January 2, 2022(EPISODE: 343)
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (or/ The Lord be with You)
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{{Joy and peace to everyone}}

my brothers and sisters, to prepare ourselves tocelebrate the sacred mysteries, let us call to mind our sins.
Lord jesus, the nations of the world are drawn to your light. Lord have mercy.
You are the radiant star of justice. Lord have mercy
You are the first fruits of the nations. Christ have mercy.
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13. "Lord, every nation on earth will adore you."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (
Alleluia). Alleluia, alleluia! We have seen his star in the East; and have come to adore 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: Epiphany
EP II
Communion side.  pwk:  RH
(theme variation:
v5 )
(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 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.
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: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traditional hymn:
"We Three Kings," performed by the Bobby Cole Chamber Choir, licensed via Shockwave-Sound.com
https://www.shockwave-sound.com )


Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      SHURE MV5 usb

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

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

[Production -  KER -  2022]
May God bless and keep you.
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Friday, December 31, 2021

Solemnity of MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD - Saturday 1 January 2022 (EPISODE: 342)

Solemnity of MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD

Saturday 1 January 2022    (Liturgical colour - White and Gold)
(EPISODE: 342)

First Reading: Numbers 6:22-27
Psalm: Ps 66:2-3. 5. 6. 8. "May God bless us in his mercy."
Second Reading: Galatians 4:4-7
Gospel Acclamation: Hebrews 1:1-2. Alleluia, alleluia! In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; now he speaks to us through his Son. Alleluia.
Gospel: Luke 2:16-21

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

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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the Mary Mother of God. Year B - January 1, 2022 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-solemnity-of-mary-the-holy-mother-of-god-1st-january-2022-episode-342?si=f66746e6e8f64619a34f6322d1287eae&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing  

 (EPISODE: 342)
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Homily – Fr Paul Kelly 2022.

At the start of a new calendar year...  (with 2021 now freshly behind us)...    Our minds turn to our Lord's words to us from Scripture-  ........  
"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End." (Rev 22:13)

Since Our Lord is the beginning and end of everything...   and;   The Lord is truly "The One who was, who is and Who always will be."       

We are on the surest possible ground when we dedicate this new year, and all our words and actions,  to the  Lord who brings all good things to perfection and completion.  

We dedicate this new year to the intercession and protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God;  the mother of the church; and our heavenly mother too..    

At the start of a new year - we echo the perfect words that were first on the lips of Mary....  who said yes to Our Lord at the annunciation...

Here I am ...   here I stand, the servant of the Lord...   let it be done to me according to your word...   
with Mary, let us stand ready with the new possibilities of  this brand new year...  to be of service to the Lord.

and our prayers are full of the inspiration we find from the scriptures, and the words of the Saints....    

such as Psalm 20:v 4-5
'4 May God  give you the desire of your heart
    and make all your plans succeed.
5 May we shout for joy over your victory
    and lift up our banners in the name of our God.
May the Lord grant all your requests."

Good heavenly advice at the start of a new year can also be readily found in St Paul:

Philippians 3:13 -14 13 "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

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(https://catholicreview.org/solemnity-of-mary-mother-of-god-ushers-in-new-year/)
In the octave of Christmas, we're still focused on the Prince of Peace, but also Mary, the Queen of Peace," ......... "We begin a new calendar year praying for peace in the world, in our homes and in our nation."

..... Pope Francis said that "a new year is a chance for a new start, a time to remember that all people are brothers and sisters and a time to nurture amazement that God became human to save all people.  The feast of Mary, Mother of God is also is a time to remember how strong maternal love and care are, and how they are the secret to making life more livable.

 "Through the intercession of the virgin Mary, may the Lord grant us to be artisans of peace — and this begins at home, in the family — every day of the new year."

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(https://www.newyearwiki.com/new-year-religious-quotes)

"Let us go forward in peace, our eyes upon heaven, the only one goal of our labours."
St Thérèse of the Child Jesus (1873-1897)- Doctor of the Church

cf (similar)

New Year's Day is a good time to fix one's eyes on the only One who knows what the year is to hold.

There are many of us that are willing to do great things for the Lord, but fewer of us  who are willing to do the little things. (Dwight L. Moody)

(paraphrase)
God is our strength.
Let Him be the strong foundation of our life
so that we will be truly uplifted when things go well,
and so that we will not stumble when things go badly.
Happy New Year!

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In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

  HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!

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

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

Lord Jesus, your beloved and Mother is thereby the Mother of God. Lord have mercy
Your beloved mother is Help of Christians. Christ have mercy
Your beloved Mother is the Queen of Heaven. Lord have mercy

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.
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Memorial Acclamation
2. When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
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PREFACE: Blessed Virgin MARY I
Euch .Prayer: 2
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{Thanks everyone, and THROUGH God's grace and mercy, and the faithful intercession of Mary the holy mother of God, may this be for you all a blessed, healthy and grace-filled year of the lord 2022.}

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

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

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

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

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

Amen.

 

Dismissal:

 Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.
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HOMILY:

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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

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

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

To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here.
You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marian Hymn - "Salve Regina Mater Misericordiae." (Traditional 11th Century). Melody: Mainz (1712), Hymn #783 - Brébeuf Hymnal. From https://www.ccwatershed.org/hymn/
 
Marian Hymn – "Quem Terra, Pontus, Aethera." ("Whom Earth and Sea and Sky Proclaim"). Traditional 6th Century Hymn. Melody: Bartholomaus Gesius (d.1613). #376 - Brébeuf Hymnal. From https://www.ccwatershed.org/hymn/

[ Production - KER - 2022]

May God bless and keep you.
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First Reading

Numbers 6:22-27 (NRSV)

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

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

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

Gospel

Luke 2:16-21 (NRSV)

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