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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Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, July 30, 2023 (EPISODE- 431)

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, July 30, 2023 (EPISODE- 431)

 
Readings for Sunday, July 30, 2023 - Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A
FIRST READING: 1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
Psalm 119:57+72, 76-77, 127-28, 129-30. "Lord, I love your commands."
SECOND READING: Romans 8:28-30
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Matthew 11:25). Alleluia, alleluia! Blessed are you, Father, Lord of Heaven and Earth. You have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
GOSPEL: Matthew 13:44-52 or 13:44-46

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 1432897322 - book pearl of great price, vector illustration eps 10 - Vector Formats. 300 • JPG. Vector Contributor: AStudio-1  
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Stock Illustration ID: 171963344. A precious pearl in an oyster shell in a row of shells 3D render.
Illustration Contributor: Michael D Brown
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily) for Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, July 30, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-seventeenth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-episode-431-year-a-2023/s-004U1RZ1tcb  (EPISODE-431)
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GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
Prologue: ["Gospel values" included in the readings:
God's wisdom –that is, having an understanding heart - is a treasure greater than gold or long life; God's Kingdom is more precious a treasure than any other earthly thing, and our efforts and priorities can reflect this] 
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In the Gospel parable today, a man discovers a treasure in a field and immediately sets about selling; EVERYTHING else he has, in order that he could HAVE THAT one perfect treasure.

The Treasure of infinite value is God's Kingdom,..//  Jesus' Good news…//  Being united forever with Jesus in God's family……/  

IT IS LIKE A RARE TREASURE… of   a price that cannot be named.

God's wisdom –that is, having an understanding heart - is also a treasure greater than gold or long life;.

God's Kingdom is more precious a treasure than any other earthly thing, and our efforts and priorities rightly reflect this.  It is worth giving up everything else to attain it…//… 

It has a richness and a depth that cannot ever be fully plumbed……  

One of these treasures is revealed in the first reading…   King Solomon is promised any gift he likes…  (he could ask for anything!)   -  but instead of asking for wealth or long life, or the defeat of his enemies,,, he asks for wisdom..  He prays for an "understanding heart."       

God offers us a way of looking at life that is more valuable than anything else…   - It changes everything we see; and everything we think.
It changes our priorities, according to God's ways of seeing things.

An understanding heart..  that can discern what is truly good and worthwhile….That is something of  abiding worth…….///  It is just so beautiful….

As I read that parable of the treasure in the field….…..I am reminded of the quote from G.K. Chesterton, (the great English scholar and writer)…  (and I am paraphrasing it liberally here)….  He writes….. 'It's not that Christianity hasn't worked, it is just that nobody's really tried it yet !' 

And he has a very interesting point there. 

I can say that after twenty-five + years of priestly ministry and reflection on the gospels;  and before that, seven years of training for the priesthood,  and also a lifetime of participation in the prayer and sacraments of the Catholic church…..     After all that, --- I can STILL truly say, feel very much like I am only just scratching the surface of the riches of Jesus' Good news.// ..//

I believe that I have plumbed a few of the beautiful depths of the Christian treasury, but having said all  that – because this exploration is of a priceless treasure; for me is truly just scratching the surface of the faith, and the gospels, the sacraments, the teaching of Christ's church, and the wonderful writings of the saints. We could not possibly read all of them before our life ends. 

The Gospel (and the sacraments and teachings of Christ's church, and its two thousand years of writings and reflections,…   four thousand when one counts the Hebrew Scriptures) ….are like a rich and huge diamond seam -  With much of it under the surface;  and at times little bit of polished or unpolished diamond peeks out through the surface.

To look at that bit only and dig no further would be the greatest tragedy of all time…..  / And quite ill-advised. 

If we dig, deeply, into the riches of the church's treasury; we will certainly find;  and if we will keep finding; and we will never get to the bottom of it. It is so Rich. 

The absolute richness of what God offers us, never ceases to astound us and draw us deeper. It never ceases to satisfy. It will never be exhausted! 

"The more we search…. the more we find! The more we find; the more we search O Lord." -- as one of the great Saints wisely observed. .

Our faith is a treasure of incredible depth. If one has searched and delved into this treasure of incredible value, and claims to have grasped this Christian Faith enough find it wanting….  I am really not sure where they have been digging!!! ???

The gospel continues to be a priceless, precious, and worthy treasure – worthy of all our efforts to explore- 

So I must admit; when one hears of people saying, that they explored the Christian faith and then went off somewhere else to find "greater truth" –
I really do wonder what they've been doing! And how  could they possibly have plumbed the depths of this infinite gift. Really what on earth were they exploring?

May God, who has so graciously accompanied and given success to our work, so often in the past, continue this good work in us and bring it to perfection.
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References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 1432897322 - book pearl of great price, vector illustration eps 10 - Vector Formats. 300 • JPG. Vector Contributor: AStudio-1  
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Stock Illustration ID: 171963344. A precious pearl in an oyster shell in a row of shells 3D render.
Illustration Contributor: Michael D Brown


Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A  (Sunday, July 30, 2023) (EPISODE- 431)

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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{{Joy and peace to everyone}}

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries by recalling our sins and remembering Christ's 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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Ps 119:57+72, 76-77, 127-28, 129-30. "Lord, I love your commands."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Matt 11:25). Alleluia, alleluia! Let your face shine on your servant. And teach me your laws.

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 I
Euch Prayer One
Communion side: 

(theme variation:  4)

(pre+post variation: v2-long)
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{May God's love, strength, mercy and kindness guide you all this week.}

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

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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 -     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


[ Production -  KER -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.