Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, August 20, 2023 (EPISODE-435)

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, August 20, 2023 (EPISODE-435)

Readings for Sunday, August 20, 2023 - Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A
FIRST READING: Isa 56:1, 6-7
Ps 67:2-3, 5, 6+8. "O God, let all the nations praise you"
SECOND READING: Rom 11:13-15, 29-32
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Matt 4:23). Alleluia, alleluia! Jesus preached the good news of the Kingdom. And healed all who were sick.
GOSPEL: Matt 15:21-28

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1083122126 -PARIS, FRANCE - JANUARY 09: Jesus and the Canaanite woman, stained glass window from Saint Germain-l'Auxerrois church in Paris, France on January 09, 2018. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Zvonimir Atletic
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily) for Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, August 20, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-twentieth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-435  (EPISODE-435)
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[' gospel' values included in the readings: inclusion, welcome, openness, mercy, compassion, persistence in faith]

This weekend's readings remind us of one of the key teachings and attitudes of Our Lord….   This reveals to us, a central value and attitude in the life of the Holy Trinity: (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!) …. and that is openness, inclusion and welcome.  Love that reaches out and is always open to the other, and a love that is always open to "yet one more person being part of the family." ... and one more, and one more after that, and so on endlessly, ......  

Our Lord shows us God's nature as inclusive, welcoming, compassionate, forgiving, and flexible to be able to respond to others and their needs. God's values are constant, eternal, and powerful, and at the same time, God is open and responsive.  Wonderful!

Whenever we come across restrictive, "not listening", unwelcoming and exclusive situations, it is very likely that the value is not resonating with Our Lord's teachings.   In obedience and imitating the Lord, the church always strives to be a welcoming, compassionate, open and inclusive community.

The faith of that lady who persisted in asking Our Lord for what she needed is sadly in stark contrast with the response many of Our Lord's own people were giving to Our Lord himself, who was 'one of them' – one of their own people. One of the chosen ones. Many of his own people were rejecting him.  And here was a lady from a different place and religion who knew she was taking a risk in approaching him. Yet she persists even when she gets an initial and notable rebuff from the disciples and even by Our Lord's initial response.

The lady persists because she KNOWS that Jesus is the one who can help. She knows that he is the Messiah who will welcome the chosen ones to his table, even if she is not one of his flock. And she hopes and prays that her faith in him and her proximity to the table of God's grace will be enough to at least share in the overflow of blessings that she knows will come from this table.   The Canaanite woman is willing to share in any "scrap or morsel" of the richness God has to offer, which, ironically, is not being appreciated by those who sit at the table…. And she is RIGHT.  Our Lord does not merely say; you can enjoy the scraps that fall from the chosen one's table… He is saying to her; because of your faith and persistence….  you can JOIN the table…  for - What faith!!  What persistence!!

We cannot see the faces of all involved in this scene, but if we did see their body language, I think a deeper reality would become apparent.  Our Lord's reaction to her, at first glance, appears (on paper) to be cold and can seem to be rather harsh....    but I believe that he was really asking her in terminology very familiar and common at the time: "Is it right that I who was sent to the chosen ones of Israel, should take the food I have to give them and cast it to outsiders??"    Or perhaps he was allowing her to show just how strong her faith in him was;  and how strong her determination was. How very different her response is to the lukewarm response of these "chosen ones" around him, for whom he was indeed first offering his good news.

I imagine that when the lady responded how she did, Our Lord would have smiled, thrown his head back and laughed! Not a scornful laugh, though!  Rather, a laugh of delight, approval, and recognition.  THIS lady GETS it!  Here is someone who gets what I am offering, and she is not even from our own clan. This lady understands when many of my people do not or will not!  This humble woman wants to share in any small piece of the blessings that others cannot even see. And then his warmth and inclusion are complete!

There are references to Our Lord starting out addressing the chosen ones of Israel. Still, by the end of his ministry, this has widened right out to include everyone and anyone who will respond positively to him and his message. 

The chosen ones are now anyone and everyone who responds in faith, love and trust to what The Lord is offering...      

This is a blessing so great it simply cannot be overstated!!   
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References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly

MISSION 2000  – PRAYING SCRIPTURE IN A CONTEMPORARY WAY. YEAR A. BY MARK LINK S.J.

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1083122126 -PARIS, FRANCE - JANUARY 09: Jesus and the Canaanite woman, stained glass window from Saint Germain-l'Auxerrois church in Paris, France on January 09, 2018. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Zvonimir Atletic


Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A  (Sunday, August 20, 2023) (EPISODE-435)

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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{{Goodness and kindness to you all}}

My brothers and sisters, we have gathered to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, - so let us pause and reflect upon our sins to rejoice in God's loving mercy.
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 67:2-3, 5, 6+8. "O God, let all the nations praise you"

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Matt 4:23). Alleluia, alleluia! Jesus preached the good news of the Kingdom. And healed all who were sick.
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: Sundays Ordinary III
Euch Prayer II

(theme variation:  3)

(welcome cycle-   Good evening/morning.
Welcome to this Mass.
We especially want to welcome all visitors to the parish this weekend.
We hope you have a wonderful stay.
Could you please check to see if your mobile devices are switched off or turned to silent.
 Our Presider tonight/today is Fr…………………………
Please stand as we sing our entrance hymn: "__________" *)

(pre+post variation: v1-short)
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{Thank you for giving generously of your time and prayer.}

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.

- "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 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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Weekday Solemnity - ​The Solemnity of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary –15th August 2023. (ep 434)

Weekday Solemnity - The Solemnity of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary –15th August 2023. (ep 434)

Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish - Weekly Parish Mass - podcast of Eucharist, including readings, prayers, homily) Greetings from Surfers Catholic parish! Please find linked below the latest edition of the Parish weekly Homily and link to the (audio) podcast of the mass, especially produced for those who are unable to be with us at mass. https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-solemnity-of-the-assumption-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-15-08-23-episode-434   Many thanks, The Parish Team The Solemnity of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary –15th August Readings FIRST READING: Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10 Psalm: Ps 44:10-12, 16. "The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold." SECOND READING: 1 Corinthians 15:20-26 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION, (Alleluia, alleluia! Mary is taken up to heaven, and the angels of God shout for joy. Alleluia!). GOSPEL: Luke 1:39-56 Shutterstock Licensed Image Credit: stock vector ID: 270796268 -Blessed Virgin Mary Queen in triangle style - By mashabr   To listen to an audio recording of the readings, prayers, and reflections for this feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, please click this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-solemnity-of-the-assumption-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-15-08-23-episode-434     Prologue: This feast originated in Jerusalem before the fifth century as the "Falling-Asleep of the Mother of God." It was adopted in Rome in the mid-seventh century and was renamed the "Assumption" in the eighth century. It celebrates Mary's passing over, body and soul, from this world into the glory of her risen Son. The foretaste and forerunner of what will be the reward of all the faithful at the fullness of the resurrection on the last day. Mary is an ideal example of someone who cooperated with God's plans… and as a result, allowed God to do great things through her life and actions….// . and Look at the wonders the Holy Spirit of God can achieve when we are open to God's plan in our lives…. Look at the incredible grace, love and fruit that is produced from saying "YES" to what God wants to achieve through us in the world….. Mary stands as a wonderful inspiration of human faithfulness, obedience, respect and humility…. Mary's yes, allowed her to become a willing part of God's plan in the world….. The doctrine of the Assumption – in formal terms states that: "The Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory." [Pius XII, Munificentissimus Deus 44].   Although the New Testament does not explicitly mention Mary's Assumption, it offers a basis for it because it strongly emphasised the Blessed Virgin's perfect union with Jesus' destiny. This union, which is showed, from the time of our Saviour's miraculous conception, and in the Mother's participation in her Son's mission and especially in her association with his redemptive sacrifice, clearly points to a continuation of that union after death. Perfectly united with the life and saving work of Jesus, Mary shares his heavenly destiny in body and soul. (And is the first of many who will celebrate this union at the resurrection).   The words of the psalmist also correlate with this understanding: - The church looks back and sees a new and deeper meaning hidden in these passages in the light of Christ's life and mission.  "Arise, O Lord, into your resting place: you and the ark, which you have sanctified" (Ps. 131:8); The church, from the earliest of times has looked upon the "Ark of the Covenant, built of incorruptible wood and placed in the Lord's temple," as a type (a forerunner) of the purest body of the Virgin Mary, preserved and exempt from all the corruption of the tomb and raised up to such glory in heaven.   Treating of this subject, the psalms describe a person (who us Christians see now as the Blessed Virgin Mary), when the psalm refers to her as "the Queen entering triumphantly into the royal halls of heaven and sitting at the right hand of the divine Redeemer" -(Ps. 44:10-14ff).   The late Pope benedict has said of Mary- "By contemplating Mary in heavenly glory, we understand that the earth is not the definitive homeland for us either, and that if we live with our gaze fixed on eternal goods we will one day share in this same glory and the earth will become more beautiful.   Consequently, we must not lose our serenity and peace even amid the thousands of daily difficulties.   The brilliant sign of Our Lady being taken up into Heaven, shines out even more brightly when sad shadows of suffering and violence seem to loom on the horizon.   We may be sure of it: from on high, Mary follows our footsteps with gentle concern, and dispels the gloom in moments of darkness and distress, and reassures us with her motherly hand.   Supported by awareness of this, let us continue confidently on our path of Christian commitment wherever Providence may lead us. Let us forge ahead in our lives under Mary's constant heavenly intercession, prayers and guidance [General Audience, August 16, 2006].   May Mary, who shows us an openness and generosity to God…. and pre-figures the destiny of all who hope in Jesus' promises, continue to inspire us to make a difference…. and say "yes" to God's values in all we do, (at home, at work, in the classrooms and workplaces.. in formal and social situations, and in the community….) Blessed Virgin Mary, assumed body and soul into heaven, pray for us, that we may be made worthy of the sure promises of Christ. Amen. ++++ References: Fr Paul W. Kelly   source-  https://www.ncregister.com/blog/the-assumption-of-mary-12-things-to-know-and-share-27jd571n?amp Shutterstock Licensed Image Credit: stock vector ID: 270796268 -Blessed Virgin Mary Queen in a triangle style - By mashabr +++++++++ 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. {{Good wishes to you all.}} On this special (Solemnity of) The Assumption Of Mary Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries. Lord Jesus, you glorified your mother; the ark of God. Lord have mercy. You raised the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul, into heavenly glory. Christ have mercy. Mary's assumption is the first fruits of the victory you won for the human race. Lord have mercy. May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ PREFACE: Glory of Mary assumed into heaven (solemnity) Euch.Prayer: 3 Memorial Acclamation 1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again. ++++ {thanks, everyone. And may God sustain you with his grace and love.} Dismissal: Go in peace ++++++++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++ 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 - 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. Hymn – "Rainfall – Mother of Mercy." Music by Paul W. Kelly. 1994, 2021. Words adapted by Paul W. Kelly, based on the Traditional Salve Regina Hymn. Arranged & with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2021. https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk Marian Hymn – "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/ Marian Hymn - "Salve Regina Mater Misericordiae." (Traditional 11th Century). Melody: Mainz (1712), Hymn #783 - Brébeuf Hymnal. From https://www.ccwatershed.org/hymn/ Magnificat (Praise and sing to God) - Music by Paul W. Kelly. (1985, 2010, 2021), Lyrics inspired by Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55). Music arranged, with adapted lyrics by Stefan de Freyne Kelk. [https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk] July 1, 2021. [ Production - KER - 2023] May God bless and keep you. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, August 13, 2023 (EPISODE- 433)

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, August 13, 2023 (EPISODE- 433)

Readings for Sunday, August 13, 2023 - Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A
FIRST READING: 1 Kgs 19:9a, 11-13a
Ps 85:9ab+10, 11-12, 13-14. "Lord, show us your mercy and love, and grant us your salvation."
SECOND READING: Rom 9:1-5
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Psalm 130:5). Alleluia, alleluia! I hope in the Lord.  I trust in his Word.
GOSPEL: Matt 14:22-33

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 610736078 - Cave hole entrance in mountain rocks. Photo Contributor: Lillac
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, August 13, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-nineteenth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-episode-433-year-a-2023

 (EPISODE-433 )
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["'gospel' values included in the readings:" God is to be found in the 'sound of sheer silence' not necessarily in dramatics of storm and earthquake and wind./ Trust in Jesus, who stills the storms/ The kind of love, (unconditional, faithful, outward-looking), is needed to begin to understand God's relationship to his people; and it is expressed beautifully by Saint Paul in this passage of the Romans… his affection and dedication was so deep that he would willingly have allowed himself to be "cut off"^ if it would have done any good in saving his people and reconnecting them to God's favour)].

 

In the first reading, Elijah meets God; whose presence is indicated by a "tiny whispering sound" ….or as a "gentle breeze" ... which is also translated as "the sound of sheer silence".... And then, in the Gospel, Jesus is encountered taming the wild, raging, stormy waters…… God is gentle and also profound and is more powerful than ANY storms, dramas or "clamours" in life…. God is quiet and also authoritative (not needing to "out-yell" contrary voices). His quiet but profound TRUTH will prevail over even the biggest, loudest and scariest of situations.

 

And so, whether it be storms or silence… / dramatic or ordinary… the message is the same… God is present and active amongst us and with us…. and the signs are there… if we search and listen with the "eyes and ears" of faith.

 

We can be drawn to look for and discover God in "the dramatic" and in extraordinary moments... But we can sometimes miss the presence, action and voice of God in the ordinary, the quiet, the everyday moments.

 

In a world filled with noise, clamour and busyness, it is even more vital than ever that we listen for the voice of God in the silence, and in times of reflection and prayer.

 

In our regular prayer (in addition to our favourite recited prayers), we also add times of silence, stillness and listening. And also times of spiritual reading of the Scriptures; .. so that God's "still, small voice" can be discerned over the clamour and noise of life (even the noise created by our ever-busy and "at-times-distracted" minds).

 

We have learnt all too well that the loudest voices in the world are not necessarily the ones that hold the key to eternal truth... Jesus' voice was by no means the loudest voice of his time, but his message is ultimate truth and life, and his gentle, quiet voice of truth has travelled further down the centuries than any other voice ever could.

 

A witty commentator once wrote, rather cleverly...: "What good is it having a leader who can walk on water, unless you can follow in his footsteps?" - But this gospel makes it very clear… if we really ARE going to follow in the footsteps of Jesus….then we need to hold tight to Christ's hand at all times……

 

Following Our Lord leads us into uncertain waters…. unchartered territory…. We need to trust our leader completely… We must not allow ourselves to doubt that Jesus is our Lord… He does have the words of eternal life.. he does love us and care for us… and want only the very best for us…. // We must be willing to be "called forth" by Christ in the very heart of the storm… and to trust in his companionship with us…through all the "ups and downs" and storms of life…… and that takes enormous courage… //enormous trust…… //

St Peter shows us this… and he shows us the real fears and doubts that can be experienced along the way….

 

Peter's encounter with Jesus is interesting … he says…."if it is you, Lord,… (if it is you??... He doubts still…..)…. Bid me to come across the water".. and Our Lord does call him……… but

 

Peter sinks without Jesus….

 

 

Peter's ministry, (and our ministry,// our lives)… are essentially connected to Jesus… /./ Without Jesus, we're sunk !……. We need to stay next to Jesus and close to his message or else we're well and truly out of our depth….

 

Saint Peter clearly also represents us (the "church") …So, we come to understand ourselves by standing in Saint Peter's shoes. Being human, we will always be vulnerable, not simply to harm but also to fear, doubt and hesitation. The storm will frighten us, and the sea could well drown us. These fears are quite real; the challenge is to live boldly despite (or beyond) the fear and the danger. We have to be willing to get out of the boat, with heart pounding and mind racing, our eyes always fixed on Jesus and his command: "Come to me…. Walk with me! " #

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References:

 

Fr Paul W. Kelly;

 

#* Alice Camille; 

 

^WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE LETTER TO THE ROMANS.REVISED EDITION. 1975. The Saint Andrew Press. Edinburgh, Scotland.

 

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 610736078 - Cave hole entrance in mountain rocks. Photo Contributor: Lillac

 

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Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A  (Sunday, August 13, 2023) (EPISODE-433 )

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (or/ The Lord be with You)
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{{Kindness and grace to you all}}

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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Ps 85:9ab+10, 11-12, 13-14. "Lord, show us your mercy and love, and grant us your salvation."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Psalm 130:5). Alleluia, alleluia! Let your face shine on your servant. And teach me your laws

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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Euch Prayer TWO with own preface
(pre+post variation: v2-short)
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{May God's grace strengthen your love and hope and faith, and may God's love surprise you even in the trials and challenges of the 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.

- "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 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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The Transfiguration of the Lord. Year A --Sunday August 6th 2023 – Episode 432

Readings for The Transfiguration of the Lord
FIRST READING: Dan 7:9-10, 13-14
Psalm: 96: 1-2, 5-6, 9 "The Lord is King, the most high over all the earth."
Second reading 2 Pet 1:16-19
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION, (Mt 17:5). Alleluia, alleluia! This is my son, the beloved. In whom is all my delight. Listen to him. Alleluia.
GOSPEL: Matthew 17:1-9

Please pray for the repose of the soul of a dear friend from my school days, Paul Giacomantonio (8th October 1968- 6th August 2020 – passing away on the feast of the Transfiguration).  May he rest in the peace of Christ forever.    As Saint Mary MacKillop once wrote: "Remember we are all but travellers here."



 
Image: Shutterstock Licensed stock illustration ID: 1206378808. The Holy Transfiguration of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ. Illustration - fresco in Byzantine style.By Julia Raketic
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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for The Transfiguration of the Lord. Year A -  by clicking this link here: 
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-transfiguration-of-the-lord-episode-432-year-a-2023/s-RPCUM2kNHyd  

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This feast of the Transfiguration originated in the East in the fourth century as commemorating the dedication of the church of the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. It was observed in the West from the eighth century and extended to the entire Western Church in the fifteenth century. The feast celebrates the divine radiance shining in Christ's human flesh and God's glory shining forth in the lives of Christians.
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 Jesus was transfigured on the mountaintop and revealed, to these privileged disciples, a truth that would soon become known to countless generations. Jesus is the only begotten son of God.
 
The important thing following this is, "Did the disciples become transfigured (or changed) by this revelation……"   It is important that they eventually did. Because this revelation was for them and us…. To encourage us to look deeply into Jesus' life and learn from what it tells us about God…….   Jesus' life, his words, his actions, his parables, who he ate with, how he treated sinners and outcasts, his way of living, his way of dying…  shows us just what God is like……     and encourages us to learn and take in the values embodied by Jesus life, words and actions……..  to be transfigured, by his example.
 
The old testament has the example of Moses, who, after speaking with God came away literally glowing….his face shining……. The encounter with the God of transformation made him glow……..   I think we can all think of people who, because of their love, compassion, and energy, appear to be radiant… glowing…..     filled with grace and light…..  such people are contagious…. Their energy, vitality, and radiance also are transforming…..
 
Jesus is the best example of them all….. he glows with the divine light of God…… he did this all the time…. Even when this was not physically visible,,,,,  he shone with God's light in happy times, and in times of suffering……….    His life was a transformation, and he invites his followers to walk this difficult path of transformation too….
The feast of the transfiguration is a special one…..   the date also coincides with other world events….…..    Such as today, also being the anniversary of the first atomic bomb ever to explode over a populated region….   Hiroshima…. (Our Prayers are that there be a universal end to weapons of mass destruction and misery….)….  And in this time of suffering and war through the world…. Today is an important opportunity to pay God for peace, understanding, goodwill, and respect between all nations, cultures, and creeds….   A Peace..that only God can give our hearts and minds….  And transforming peace…..   peace that brings the light of hope and peace and love into a world struggling with hatred, violence and revenge…..   May God help break the cycle of violence, retribution and counter-retribution that has wrought tragedy over countless generations through history. …
 
I also note that it's the anniversary of the death of Pope Saint Paul VI, who entered eternal life on this feast of the transfiguration back in 1978.   Reading his biography a few years ago…..   and being struck by Pope Paul's passion and love and his vision for the world, including a vision for peace….. it was Pope Paul who ensured that the Vatican Council begun by Pope John XIII and so transformed the spirit the church to address the needs of today….    Pope Paul kept it going after Pope John's death, halfway through the Council, threatened to derail the work that had begun.

They said of Pope Paul, "It may have needed a saintly man like Pope John to launch the second Vatican council. But the Holy Spirit seemed to need a man of the vision and clarity of Pope Paul to bring it back to port…….   
 
Each and every Christian vocation…    lay, religious priests….   And especially those who are in and amongst the world working with God's Spirit to transform according to God's vision
 Let us pray that God will transform our hearts and mind and transfigure them according to God's goodwill…  and shape our hearts and attitudes according to the mind and heart of Christ and his vision for a world made new…. The Light of the Resurrection, the Light of God's glory… and the light of peace, hope and love.
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly

Image: Shutterstock Licensed stock illustration ID: 1206378808. The Holy Transfiguration of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ. Illustration - fresco in Byzantine style.By Julia Raketic


The Transfiguration of the Lord. Year A --Sunday  August 6th 2023 – Episode 432
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In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and
of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
A.              The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.    And with your spirit.
{{Hi}}
 
Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, on this Solemnity of the Transfiguration of the Lord, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries by recalling our sins and remembering Christ's greater mercy.
Lord Jesus, you are the light of the world. Lord have mercy
You grant that all who follow you will have the light of life. christ have mercy.
You lead us through the darkness of this world to the radiant glory of your kingdom. 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
Save us, Saviour of the world,
for by your Cross and Resurrection,
you have set us free.


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PREFACE: THE MYSTERY OF THE TRANSFIGURATION

(OPENING THEME VARIATION:   verse 2 )
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{{Many thanks for participating in this time of praise and reflection upon our loving God. May God's radiant light shine upon and guide us always.....
·              Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.
            All:      Thanks be to God.
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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.

"O Come. Lord. - In Memory of Paolo Mario (Paul) Giacomantonio (1968- Feast of the Transfiguration -2020).  Music By Paul W. Kelly.  Based on the Ancient church "O Antiphons" and sung, with additional lyrics, By Stefan Kelk, 2020. https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk
KER 2023

May God bless and keep you. 
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