A LENTEN PENITENTIAL SERVICE - (For you at home) 2022

A LENTEN PENITENTIAL SERVICE - In preparation for Holy Week and Easter. (For you at home) 2022 Readings: FIRST READING: James 2:14-26 PSALM: 106:6-10, 13-14, 19-22. "Lord, remember us, for the love you bear your people." GOSPEL: LUKE 15:4-7. Image: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 382340017 - Broken heart, embroidered with red thread on black fabric. Heart sewn with white thread. Contributor: Natasha Grigel ++++ Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for A LENTEN PENITENTIAL SERVICE - In preparation for Holy Week and Easter. (For you at home), by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-lenten-penitential-service-in-preparation-for-holy-week-2022 +++++ In preparation for Holy Week and Easter … We have been doing acts of penance, prayer and good works so that we may celebrate the joy Christ's victory at Easter, with minds and hearts made pure… Today, we celebrate this special penitential service… which is an act of perfect contrition for all our sins.. Christ hears the voice of the repentant sinner… and so we trust in his abundant mercy,… ++ In the name of the Father, (+) and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Greetings. Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries by recalling our sins and remembering Christs greater mercy. I confess to Almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do, through my fault, through my fault,* ....... May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. Lord Have Mercy Christ Have Mercy Lord Have Mercy My brothers and sisters, we have, at times, neglected the gifts of our baptism and fallen into sin. Let us ask God to renew his grace within us as we turn to him in repentance. Let us Bow our heads before God. All pray in silence for a brief period. Lord Jesus, you redeemed us by your passion and raised us to new life in baptism. Protect us with your unchanging love and share with us the joy of your resurrection, for you live and reign for ever and ever. Amen. First Reading A reading from the Letter of saint James 2:14-26 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you? If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill', and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. But someone will say, 'You have faith and I have works.' Show me your faith without works, and I by my works will show you my faith. You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder. Do you want to be shown, you senseless person, that faith without works is barren? Was not our ancestor Abraham justified by works when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was brought to completion by the works. Thus the scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness', and he was called the friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. Likewise, was not Rahab also justified by works when she welcomed the messengers and sent them out by another road? For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is also dead. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Responsorial Psalm Psalm 106:6-10, 13-14, 19-22 R. Lord, remember us, for the love you bear your people. Then they cried to the Lord in their need and he rescued them from their distress and he led them along the right way, to reach a city they could dwell in. Let them thank the Lord for his love, for the wonders he does for men: for he satisfies the thirsty soul; he fills the hungry with good things. Then they cried to the Lord in their need and he rescued them from their distress. He led them forth from darkness and gloom and broke their chains to pieces. Then they cried to the Lord in their need and he rescued them from their distress. He sent forth his word to heal them and saved their life from the grave. Let them thank the Lord for his love, for the wonders he does for men. Let them offer a sacrifice of thanks and tell of his deeds with rejoicing. Lord, remember us, for the love you bear your people. Gospel Luke 15:4-7 A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke Jesus spoke this parable to them: 'What man among you with a hundred sheep, losing one, would not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the missing one till he found it? And when he found it, would he not joyfully take it on his shoulders and then, when he got home, call together his friends and neighbours? 'Rejoice with me,' he would say, 'I have found my sheep that was lost.' In the same way, I tell you, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one repentant sinner than over ninety-nine virtuous men who have no need of repentance.' The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Homily When we were baptised…God made a solemn promise to us. As the waters of baptism poured over us, God said… this day I make you my son/ My daughter…. – God truly loves us as a loving parent loved their child…. It is our delight and our duty to fulfil this wonderful gift and grace of baptism by living faithfully the Gospel of Christ. God's promise of eternal parenthood to us, and his promise of complete faithfulness with us through our whole life journey and into the eternal life of the Heavenly banquet, was no mere words… it was not an empty show…. God means what God does and God fulfils what God promises. Without doubt. So too, the promises made at our own baptism by our parents and godparents. or by ourselves and our sponsors for those baptised in adulthood… these promises are real and solid…. The first reading reminds us that we are children of God in fact, as well as name. And that our membership of God's family needs to show itself in actions and consistent attitudes and values. and not merely words or hollow rituals… The Sacraments are alive with the power of God's Spirit. and the source of all the sacraments is from the power and effectiveness of the Holy Spirit given over-flowingly in Baptism… we become grafted onto Christ. joined to him forever… what an absolute joy. What a priceless treasure… We have to be so careful of two extremes. Both are very bad and harmful to us in so many ways. The first extreme is to take for granted our membership as a daughter or son of God. We are not part-time members of Christ… occasional friends of Jesus… we are friends, heirs and servants of the living God… We, therefore, take very seriously God's direction to us that we must take our gifts and make use of them for the good of God's Kingdom. As we heard in James' letter… faith without good works is entirely dead. Discipleship of Christ and membership of God's family is utterly hollow if it doesn't show itself in attitudes, actions and decisions consistent with Our Father's Kingdom. Practical actions of kindness, love, mercy and charity… Our actions are united with the loving heart of Our Lord Jesus. Whenever we fail and sin (when we fall). and at times when we make very poor choices or actions, the other extreme, (to be carefully avoided), is to be so "down on ourselves".. That we cannot forgive ourselves … or we effectively refuse to allow God to give us the forgiveness that God can and does want to give us. It is serious and false humility to not accept God's forgiveness and mercy when it is offered. IF God has forgiven us, we are truly forgiven indeed! Who are we to say that God cannot or will not forgive us for our sins? Are we greater than the God of all creation? If I say to God, I have sinned and then say, Lord, you are unable to forgive me for this, I do not deserve to be forgiven … then I can add pride and arrogance to my sins… The constant message of the bible and Christ's Good News is that he is the loving parent of the prodigal child who looks out for the return of his errant child day and night.. and runs to meet him when he finally and sheepishly (and possibly half-heartedly) returns.. / like the Gospel… Our loving God is NOT content with 99% of the sheep safe and sound… but will not be satisfied until he searches for and finds that lost 1% and brings them home safe too. Today we praise the unlimited mercy of our God and Father who continually welcomes those who turn back to him after having sinned (see Luke 15); The upcoming season of Easter (even as celebrated in these extraordinary and difficult times) remains the feast when the Church rejoices over the newness of life, and eternal life, in Christ, won for us by the death and Resurrection of Jesus. Examination of Conscience The Lord says: 'Love one another as I have loved you.' Have I a genuine love for my neighbours? Or do I sometimes use my neighbour for my own ends, or do to them what I would not want to be done to myself? Have I given a poor example or scandal by my words or actions? In my family life, have I contributed to the well-being and happiness of the rest of the family by patience, kindness and genuine love? Have I been obedient to parents, showing them proper respect and giving them help in their spiritual and material needs? Have I been careful to give a Christian upbringing to those in my care, and to help them by good example and by exercising authority as a parent or carer or mentor? Have I been faithful in my heart and in my relations with others? Do I share my possessions with the less fortunate? Do I do my best to help the victims of oppression, misfortune, and poverty? Re there times I have looked down on my neighbour, especially the poor, the sick, the elderly, strangers, and people of other races? Does my life reflect the mission I received in confirmation? Do I share in the missionary and charitable works of the Church and in the life of the parish? Have I helped to meet the needs of the Church and of the world and prayed for them: for unity in the Church, for the spread of the Gospel among the nations, for peace and justice…..? Am I concerned for the good and prosperity of the human community in which I live, or do I spend much of my time focusing only on myself? Do I share to the best of my ability in the work of promoting justice, morality, harmony, and love in human relations? Have I done my duty as a citizen? In times of ability, have I paid what is my due to the society I live in? In my work or profession am I just, hard-working, honest, serving society out of love for others? Have I been faithful to my promises and contracts? Have I obeyed legitimate authority and given due respect to its laws for the good of the community? In any position of responsibility or authority, do I use this for the good of others, in a spirit of service, or for my own purposes? Have I been truthful and fair, or have I injured others by deceit, calumny, detraction, rash judgment, or violation of a secret? Have I stolen the property of others? Have I desired material things unjustly and inordinately? Have I damaged things of others or failed to show care to property I am responsible for? Have I made restitution of other people's property and made good their loss? If I have been injured, have I been ready to make peace for the love of Christ and to forgive, or do I harbour hatred and the desire for revenge? Where is my life really leading me? Is the hope of eternal life my inspiration? Have I tried to grow in the life of the Spirit through prayer, reading the word of God and meditating on it, receiving the sacraments, self-denial? Have I been anxious to control my vices, my bad inclinations and passions, e.g. envy, love of food and drink? Have I been proud and boastful, thinking myself better in the sight of God and despising others as less important than myself? Have I imposed my own will on others, without respecting their freedom and rights? What use have I made of time, of health and strength, of the gifts God has given me to be used like the talents in the Gospel? Or have I been slack and too much given to leisure? Have I been patient in accepting the sorrows and disappointments of life? Have I always tried to act in the true freedom of the sons of God according to the law of the Spirit, or am I the slave of forces within me? Act of Repentance My brothers and sisters, the hour of God's favour draws near, the day of his mercy and of our salvation when death was destroyed and eternal life began. This is the season for planting new vines in God's vineyard, the time for pruning the vines to ensure a richer harvest. We all acknowledge that we are sinners. We are moved to penance, encouraged by the example and prayers of our brothers and sisters. We admit our guilt and say: 'Lord, I acknowledge my sins; my offences are always before me. Turn away your face, Lord, from my sins, and blot out all my wrong-doing. Give me back the joy of your salvation and give me a new and steadfast spirit.' We are sorry for having offended God by our sins. May he be merciful and hear us as we ask to be restored to his friendship and numbered among the living who share the joy of Christ's risen life. Cleanse us, Lord, from all our sins; Wash us, and we shall be whiter than snow. Lord, your sons and daughters stand before you in humility and trust. Look with compassion on us as we confess our sins. Heal our wounds; stretch out a hand of pity to save us and raise us up. Keep us free from harm as members of Christ's body, as sheep of your flock, as children of your family. Hear, Lord, the prayers we offer from contrite hearts. Have pity on us as we acknowledge our sins. Lead us back to the way of holiness. Protect us now and always from the wounds of sin. May we ever keep safe in all its fullness the gift your love once gave us and your mercy now restores. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. R. Amen. LORD'S PRAYER HAIL MARY The Lord be with you…. SOLEMN BLESSING // May God, the Father of mercies, who has given you an example of love in the Passion of his Only Begotten Son, grant that, by serving God and your neighbour, you may lay hold of the wondrous gift of his blessing. R. Amen. So that you may receive the reward of everlasting life from him, through whose earthly Death you believe that you escape eternal death. R. Amen. And by following the example of his self-abasement, may you possess a share in his Resurrection. R. 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. R. Amen. Go in peace, glorifying the Lord BY your life! +++++ References: Fr Paul W. Kelly Liturgy Adapted from texts in the Rite of Penance Book Appendix II Sample Penitential Services. PENITENTIAL CELEBRATIONS DURING LENT. First Example. –adapted- "Penance leads to a strengthening of baptismal grace."). App. Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship. Trans. ICEL. Australian Episcopal Conference. 1975. Image: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 382340017 - Broken heart, embroidered with red thread on black fabric. Heart sewn with white thread. Contributor: Natasha Grigel +++++++++++++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog: "Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly Liturgy Adapted from texts in the Rite of Penance Book Appendix II Sample Penitential Services. PENITENTIAL CELEBRATIONS DURING LENT. First Example. –adapted- "Penance leads to a strengthening of baptismal grace."). App. Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship. Trans. ICEL. Australian Episcopal Conference. 1975 Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA) "The Psalms" ©1963 The Grail - Collins publishers. Have Mercy – Song based on Psalm 50. Music by Paul Kelly. Added lyrics and arrangement and sung by Stefan Kelk. 2020. Production - KER 2022 May God bless and keep you. Copyright (C) 2022 Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. Our mailing address is: Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Office 50 Fairway Drive CLEAR ISLAND WATERS, QLD 4226 Australia Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe

Fifth Sunday of Lent. Year C. - Sunday, April 3, 2022(EPISODE: 358)

Fifth Sunday of Lent. Year C. - Sunday, April 3, 2022 (EPISODE: 358) Readings for Fifth Sunday of Lent. Year C. FIRST READING: Isa 43:16-21 Ps 126:1-2a, 2b-3, 4-5, 6. "The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy." SECOND READING: Phil 3:8-14 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Joel 2:12-13). Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ, king of endless Glory. With all your heart, turn to me. For I am tender and compassionate. GOSPEL: John 8:1-11 [Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Item ID: 1498685270 - Biblical vector illustration series, Jesus Forgives Adulterous Woman. Let he who is without sin cast the first stone – Contributor: rudall30l] ++++ Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Fifth Sunday of Lent. Year C. - Sunday, April 3, 2022 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-ep-358-lent-5c-2022 (EPISODE: 358) +++++ * (Prologue: Fr Paul Kelly) "Neither do I condemn you!" There is a beautiful little theme thread running through the readings this weekend that I find delightful: 'no need to recall the past, (the blessings of God are not all in the past), God is doing something new in this time and in this place. And Saint Paul picks up this thread again as he says: "I forget the past and strain ahead for what is to come." God is still at work in our lives here and now. God wants us to look forward and not dwell on the past and certainly not to be held back by past sins and mistakes. This is wonderful. That is the point about mercy: nobody deserves it. Everyone deserves true justice; mercy, on the other hand, is sheer gift. Mercy cancels out wrongs and transgressions – not because a sparkling defence has been found, or excusing causes have been skilfully argued, but because that is the free response of the person who is grieved. Mercy does not suggest that the guilty are not guilty; it recognises the guilt but does not demand satisfaction for the wrong. In all this, mercy reflects the utter graciousness of the one who has been wronged."^ It is as if this one account of how Jesus actually treated this woman gives a clear picture of the whole meaning of the Gospel and the way approaches us in our sin and our weakness. There is no doubt about what the law at the time of Our Lord dictated as a penalty for the type of sin alleged here. Jesus, however, puts the whole relationship of sin and punishment into a new light: mercy and compassion. In God's eyes, the law is not just about harshness and rules but in unity with God's loving mercy and kindness, and how we have acted in relation to that. Jesus, time and time again has reminded us that we are whole human beings, and that Jesus calls us to wholeness. So we do not do ourselves much good if we only focus on actions or even sins unless we see them in the broader context of who we are as humans created by God in love. It is also about love and mercy and compassion. I am sure we would all like to live out that mercy and compassion in our lives. Lent is when we reflect on our own relationships with others. We no longer stone people to death for breaking laws, (thank Goodness), but tragically and shockingly, there are still places in the world where this horrific penalty still applies. And let's face it, even in the absence of "stoning" - there are other ways of "striking people down" or destroying their career, their reputation or their lives because of their mistakes, sins and weaknesses. We have probably all seen examples where a persons' sin or weaknesses have been thrown back in their face by others, even in situations where the sin or weakness is actually not relevant at all to the present issue at hand. A person's fault and sins can be a powerful weapon that is used against them. It is all-too-tempting for people to use a person's sins and faults against them for their own advantage. Lent calls us to live as Jesus Christ lived: with love, compassion, and mercy for everyone and for all creation. What an enormous challenge! Whenever we might be tempted to reject another person, we could benefit from thinking of this Gospel passage and realize that we actually condemn ourselves if we reject others. This kind of thinking clearly does not condone the sin. Jesus is clear at the end of this Gospel passage: "Go, and from now on do not sin anymore." There is no sense that the sin involved here is in any way being condoned — (although we often rightly ask; where is the other party?? Where is the man? This situation is terribly unjust. The woman is being brought before Our Lord by the Pharisees and Scribes, not because they are concerned for her welfare, but her predicament is being used as a nasty trap for Jesus). And it is hypocrisy! The woman is being brought forward for punishment whilst the man is nowhere to be seen. In any case, this woman is herself a beloved and cherished daughter of God and needs more than ever, God's love, mercy and compassion at this time. Isn't it interesting that there is no one more compassionate, loving and gentle towards those who have fallen than truly holy people…. Saints are often the ones found amongst those who have sinned and are rejected..… And the presence of these saints among them is loving, compassionate, gentle… True disciples look nothing like the self-righteous and scheming experts that Our Lord encounters in this Gospel. There is no one more judgmental hypocritical, condemnatory and intolerant than this type of self-righteous phoney. At first glance, the true disciple and these hypocrites can look very similar, but the actions and attitudes of these other people show them up for what they really are: fakes and frauds. Jesus shows us the true response to people in their brokenness, sin, and pain, whilst the self-righteous are unbending in their expectations and unforgiving in their demeanor, except, of course, when it comes to their own failings and then they will either deny them or expect everyone to "move on" quickly and get over it. Jesus rejects utterly this dreadful double standard. How many situations today reflect the need for clear moral thinking. In the Gospel, Jesus is not afraid to call sin what it is. Yet a clear idea of what is right and what is wrong and a clear sense of sin in no way leads to a rejection of the person, nor does anyone ever take delight in the sin or wrongdoing or the fall of others. In the first reading from the Prophet Isaiah, we could even say that learning to speak clearly and yet with compassion and mercy, is a way of announcing the praise of God. If we look at the second reading from the Letter to the Philippians, we can honestly say that we must keep our eyes on the goal, which is living in Christ Jesus and living as He lived in every aspect of our life. We will encounter a cost and certainly a fair degree of pain, for trying to live as Jesus lived, but we will also be transformed. Let us pray today for a deepening of the gift of faith in our lives and for the gift of being able to give witness to our faith by speaking the truths of our faith, but always with compassion, love and mercy. May God help us! We certainly need God's help and grace. May we hear the and live the words of Jesus in our lives: "Neither do I condemn you, go on your way in peace and sin no more!" -To listen to the whole Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks. +++++ References: Homily –- Fr Paul W. Kelly(References: Fr Paul W. Kelly, ^McBride, D. and Hutchinson, M. (2011). Seasons of the word -Reflections on the Sunday Readings. 2nd ed. Hampshire: Redemptorist Publications, p.100; Abbot's homily –with additions by Fr Paul Kelly http://christdesert.org/) [Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Item ID: 1498685270 - Biblical vector illustration series, Jesus Forgives Adulterous Woman. Let he who is without sin cast the first stone – Contributor: rudall30l] ++++ Fifth Sunday of Lent. Year C. (Sunday, April 3, 2022) (EPISODE: 358) The Lord be with you. +++++++++++++ {{May Our Lord's courage, uphold you.}} welcome everyone, we gather - Praise and Worship of our God. Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries. 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. +++++++++++++++++++++ Memorial Acclamation 1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Ps 126:1-2a, 2b-3, 4-5, 6. "The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy." GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Joel 2:12-13). Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ, king of endless Glory. With all your heart, turn to me. For I am tender and compassionate. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary II Euch Prayer One Communion side. pwk: LH (theme variation: ) ++++ {Thank you for giving generously of your time and prayer.} Go in peace.(glorifying the Lord by your life) ++++++++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog: "Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL) Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA) "The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers. Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993). (Sydney Australia). "Quiet Time." Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020. Lenten Hymn: "Have Mercy" inspired by Psalm 50(51). Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2020. Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly. Microphones: - Sennheiser MK4 Cardioid Condenser; and Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser. 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. Copyright (C) 2022 Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. Our mailing address is: Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Office 50 Fairway Drive CLEAR ISLAND WATERS, QLD 4226 Australia Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe

SPCP - Weekend Liturgy - Fourth Sunday of Lent. C - Sunday, March 27, 2022 (EPISODE: 357)

Fourth Sunday of Lent. C - Sunday, March 27, 2022 (EPISODE: 357) Readings for Fourth Sunday of Lent. C FIRST READING: Josh 5:9a, 10-12 Ps 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7. "Taste and see the goodness of the Lord" SECOND READING: 2 Cor 5:17-21 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 15:18). Praise and honour to you, Lord Jesus Christ. I will rise and go to my Father and tell him. Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. GOSPEL: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Item ID: 1662774463 - Vienna, Austria. 2019/10/23. "The Return of the Prodigal Son" (1773) by Pompeo Girolamo Batoni (1708-1787). Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) in Vienna, Austria. Contributor: Adam Jan Figel ++++ Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for the Fourth Sunday of Lent. C - Sunday, March 27, 2022 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/FN5c6ECNQMURsi6j7 (EPISODE: 357) +++++ * (Fr Paul Kelly) "He was Lost and is found!" As usual, the Pharisees and the scribes are on the lookout. They condemn the welcome that Jesus extends to those considered as public sinners, people who, for that reason, are on the edges of society and despised by them (Lk 15:1). This prompts our Lord to tell them a story about what God is really like. The parable of the Prodigal Son would have to be one of the best stories of all time. The fact that Jesus, (God made flesh, tells this story to show us how the Heavenly Father thinks and relates to us, even when we have done wrong, is truly amazing. Of all the images Jesus could have used, the one he persistently uses is that of an unconditionally loving parent.. a doting Father, no less. "Forgiveness comes from the welcoming person rather than from the repenting sinner. Forgiving is giving life."* "Failing to see the gratuitousness of love is failing to understand the gospel. - (the free and overflowing generosity of love, is given, not earned or deserved) - By converting the gospel into a mere set of obligations, external rules or a guarantee of authorities without moral worth, we make a joke or a cartoon out of Christ's divine love.* The reason Jesus told this story… is to appeal to the better judgment of the Pharisees and scribes. The Pharisees and scribes were, at the time of Jesus, known to be experts in the right application of the Law of Moses, and of God's law….. they made themselves out to be the perfect examples of how people should faithfully obey God and be considered at rights with God… but it is quite clear from the prodigal son story, that Jesus is trying to show them that, far from being the perfect model of what a good child of God is like… they were acting more like the older (seemingly loyal son) who, although he had done nothing wrong… was thinking and acting more like an embittered slave in his father's house than a beloved son… and resenting the forgiveness and reform of anyone who fell short… just like a lost son, realising the folly of their ways, would be welcomed back by his loving father… …. Jesus was trying to get all people to stop acting like dutiful, loveless, resentful and hard-hearted slaves of God.. and take up their rightful place as beloved, unconditionally loved children of God….. They should be sharing in their father's genuine joy and relief in getting back his lost son, they should be of one heart and mind with their beloved father and join the rejoicing when the lost are found and brought back… not whinging and complaining and recommending distance and rejection, and making the whole issue about themselves and how much they have slaved for their master – when all he wanted is for us to love as he does. Jesus is clearly saying that the self-righteous good guys who have not done anything wrong according to the letter of the law, may just be as bad a sinner or worse than those who had broken God's law and repented…. Because they fail to grasp the very essence of the gospel... (they are strangers to the heart of God's love). They are not living as God's beloved sons and daughters. instead, they act like ill-willed, mean-spirited slaves, who kept God's law only begrudgingly, and for a calculated expectation of reward… and with neither true love of their heavenly father, nor true love of their fellow brother or sister…. Jesus was trying to say to everyone… WAKE UP to yourselves…. If you do everything out of duty, self-righteousness, and judgementalism, and you are not loving, forgiving, gracious and inclusive….. then you are totally on the wrong track .. You have utterly missed the point of the Gospel and misunderstood the very nature of God. Ironically, they are acting as badly as the ones they condemn…. This parable is also wonderful for all who have ever sinned or turned away from God by their actions and attitudes… because Our Lord is imploring us to see ourselves as children of a loving God… who keeps searching for us like a doting father.. and who will happily welcome us back when we turn our faces back to home… not because we deserve it, but because God loves us and wants the best for us… and knows that being part of God's family is God's plan for us and what is best for us…. And he calls upon us to take on this attitude to others .. and see them too as our fellow brothers and sisters… all part of one big family loved and cherished and welcomed by God….. St Paul sums up our true role in this world…. "…we are ambassadors for Christ as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, to be reconciled to God." May God help us to be aware that we are loved children of God, not angry slaves but willing coworkers – who delight in sharing in the love and mindset of God, and we are ministers and instruments of God's love and forgiveness in our lives and in our community. -To listen to the whole Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks. +++++ References: Homily –Fr Paul W. Kelly *Barclay, W. (1975). The Gospel of Luke. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: St. Andrew Press). [Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Item ID: 1662774463 - Vienna, Austria. 2019/10/23. "The Return of the Prodigal Son" (1773) by Pompeo Girolamo Batoni (1708-1787). Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) in Vienna, Austria. Contributor: Adam Jan Figel] Fourth Sunday of Lent. C (Sunday, March 27, 2022) (EPISODE: 357 ) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. +++++++++++++ {{May Our Lord's Fidelity strengthen you.}} welcome everyone, we gather - To take time to reflect upon the meaning of God's word for our everyday lives. Brothers and sisters, the Lord is full of love and mercy. And so, as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries, let us acknowledge our sins. Lord Jesus, you are mighty God and Prince of peace. Lord have mercy// You are Son of God and the Son of Mary. Christ have mercy// You are Word made flesh, the splendour of the Father. Lord have mercy. May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +++++++++++++++++++++ Memorial Acclamation 3. Save us, Saviour of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Ps 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7. "Tast and see the goodness of the Lord" GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 15:18). Praise and honour to you, Lord Jesus Christ. I will rise and go to my Father and tell him. Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary I Eucharistic Prayer II Communion side. pwk: RH (theme variation: ) ++++ {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. ++++++++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog: "Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL) Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA) "The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers. Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993). (Sydney Australia). "Quiet Time." Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020. Lenten Hymn: "Have Mercy" inspired by Psalm 50(51). Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2020. Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly. Microphones: - Sennheiser MK4 Cardioid Condenser; and Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser. 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. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Copyright (C) 2022 Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. Our mailing address is: Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Office 50 Fairway Drive CLEAR ISLAND WATERS, QLD 4226 Australia Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe

The ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - 25th March 2022 - (weekday Solemnity)

The ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - 25th March 2022 - (weekday Solemnity) Readings FIRST READING: Isaiah 7:10-14,8:10; PSALM 39:7-11. "Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will." SECOND READING: Hebrews 10:4-10. GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 1:14). Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ! The word of God became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw his glory. Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ! GOSPEL: Luke 1:26-38 Shutterstock Licensed Image stock photo ID: 341782814 ATHENS, GREECE - OCTOBER 8, 2015: The fresco of Annunciation on the facade of Metropolitan Cathedaral by B. Antoniasis (1895). By Renata Sedmakova ++++ Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - 25th March 2022 by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-annunciation-weekday-solemnity-25th-march-2022 +++++ Today's feast of the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated, in a timely fashion exactly nine months to the day of Christmas. and three months before the feast of the birth of JOHN the Baptist. It is a feast of the Lord, commemorating the announcement to the Virgin Mary of the Word made flesh, Mary's acceptance of God's will, and the conception of Christ nine months before Christmas. This feast originated in the East during the sixth century and gained universal observance in the West during the eighth century. Its occurrence close to Easter links the incarnation with the whole mystery of human redemption in Christ. ++++ Special for 2022:  Pope Francis announced that he will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on March 25th, 2022 from Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, at the Angelus for that day. Here is the full text of the prayer obtained by CNA: O Mary, Mother of God and our Mother, in this time of trial we turn to you. As our Mother, you love us and know us: no concern of our hearts is hidden from you. Mother of mercy, how often we have experienced your watchful care and your peaceful presence! You never cease to guide us to Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Yet we have strayed from that path of peace. We have forgotten the lesson learned from the tragedies of the last century, the sacrifice of the millions who fell in two world wars. We have disregarded the commitments we made as a community of nations. We have betrayed peoples' dreams of peace and the hopes of the young. We grew sick with greed, we thought only of our own nations and their interests, we grew indifferent and caught up in our selfish needs and concerns. We chose to ignore God, to be satisfied with our illusions, to grow arrogant and aggressive, to suppress innocent lives and to stockpile weapons. We stopped being our neighbour's keepers and stewards of our common home. We have ravaged the garden of the earth with war and by our sins we have broken the heart of our heavenly Father, who desires us to be brothers and sisters. We grew indifferent to everyone and everything except ourselves. Now with shame we cry out: Forgive us, Lord! Holy Mother, amid the misery of our sinfulness, amid our struggles and weaknesses, amid the mystery of iniquity that is evil and war, you remind us that God never abandons us, but continues to look upon us with love, ever ready to forgive us and raise us up to new life. He has given you to us and made your Immaculate Heart a refuge for the Church and for all humanity. By God's gracious will, you are ever with us; even in the most troubled moments of our history, you are there to guide us with tender love. We now turn to you and knock at the door of your heart. We are your beloved children. In every age you make yourself known to us, calling us to conversion. At this dark hour, help us and grant us your comfort. Say to us once more: "Am I not here, I who am your Mother?" You are able to untie the knots of our hearts and of our times. In you we place our trust. We are confident that, especially in moments of trial, you will not be deaf to our supplication and will come to our aid. That is what you did at Cana in Galilee, when you interceded with Jesus and he worked the first of his signs. To preserve the joy of the wedding feast, you said to him: "They have no wine" (Jn 2:3). Now, O Mother, repeat those words and that prayer, for in our own day we have run out of the wine of hope, joy has fled, fraternity has faded. We have forgotten our humanity and squandered the gift of peace. We opened our hearts to violence and destructiveness. How greatly we need your maternal help! Therefore, O Mother, hear our prayer. Star of the Sea, do not let us be shipwrecked in the tempest of war. Ark of the New Covenant, inspire projects and paths of reconciliation. Queen of Heaven, restore God's peace to the world. Eliminate hatred and the thirst for revenge, and teach us forgiveness. Free us from war, protect our world from the menace of nuclear weapons. Queen of the Rosary, make us realize our need to pray and to love. Queen of the Human Family, show people the path of fraternity. Queen of Peace, obtain peace for our world. O Mother, may your sorrowful plea stir our hardened hearts. May the tears you shed for us make this valley parched by our hatred blossom anew. Amid the thunder of weapons, may your prayer turn our thoughts to peace. May your maternal touch soothe those who suffer and flee from the rain of bombs. May your motherly embrace comfort those forced to leave their homes and their native land. May your Sorrowful Heart move us to compassion and inspire us to open our doors and to care for our brothers and sisters who are injured and cast aside. Holy Mother of God, as you stood beneath the cross, Jesus, seeing the disciple at your side, said: "Behold your son" (Jn 19:26.) In this way he entrusted each of us to you. To the disciple, and to each of us, he said: "Behold, your Mother" (v. 27). Mother Mary, we now desire to welcome you into our lives and our history. At this hour, a weary and distraught humanity stands with you beneath the cross, needing to entrust itself to you and, through you, to consecrate itself to Christ. The people of Ukraine and Russia, who venerate you with great love, now turn to you, even as your heart beats with compassion for them and for all those peoples decimated by war, hunger, injustice and poverty. Therefore, Mother of God and our Mother, to your Immaculate Heart we solemnly entrust and consecrate ourselves, the Church and all humanity, especially Russia and Ukraine. Accept this act that we carry out with confidence and love. Grant that war may end and peace spread throughout the world. The "Fiat" that arose from your heart opened the doors of history to the Prince of Peace. We trust that, through your heart, peace will dawn once more. To you we consecrate the future of the whole human family, the needs and expectations of every people, the anxieties and hopes of the world. Through your intercession, may God's mercy be poured out on the earth and the gentle rhythm of peace return to mark our days. Our Lady of the "Fiat," on whom the Holy Spirit descended, restore among us the harmony that comes from God. May you, our "living fountain of hope," water the dryness of our hearts. In your womb Jesus took flesh; help us to foster the growth of communion. You once trod the streets of our world; lead us now on the paths of peace. Amen. ++++++ Homily : Mary was of the house of David and was engaged to be married to Joseph, of the same royal family. She had, however, not yet entered the household of her spouse, but was still in her mother's house, perhaps working, over her dowry. (Bardenhewer, Maria Verk., 69). And the angel having taken the figure and the form of a man came into the house and said to her: "Greetings, full of grace … the Lord is with you." Mary having heard the greeting words did not speak; she was troubled in spirit since she knew not the angel, nor the cause of his coming, nor the meaning of the greeting. And the angel continued and said: "Fear not, Mary, for have found favour with God. Behold you shall conceive in your womb, and bring forth a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Most-High, and the Lord God shall give to him the throne of David his father, and he shall reign in the house of Jacob forever. And of his kingdom, there shall be no end." The Virgin understood that there was a question of the coming Redeemer. But, why should she be elected from amongst women for the splendid dignity of being the mother of the Messiah, having vowed her virginity to God? (St. Augustine). Therefore, not doubting the word of God like Zachary, but filled with fear and astonishment, she said: "How shall this be done, because I know not a man?" – this was not merely a present tense... This was akin to "I have made a perpetual vow of virginity to God, even as I plan to be married, so how can this be?" (Her question and confusion make no sense unless this is the clarification she seeks). The angel, to remove Mary's anxiety and to reassure her resolve, answered: "The Holy Spirit shall come upon you and the power of the Most-High shall overshadow you. And therefore also the Holy One which shall be born of you shall be called the Son of God." Mary, very likely, would not have yet fully understood the full meaning of the heavenly message and how the maternity might be reconciled with her vow of virginity, but clinging to the first words of the angel and trusting to the all-powerful faithfulness of God she said: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it done to me according to thy word." Many holy fathers (Sts. Jerome, Cyril, Ephrem, Augustine) say that the consent of Mary was essential to the redemption. It was the will of God, St. Thomas says (Summa III:30), that the redemption of mankind should depend upon the consent of the Virgin Mary. This does not mean that God in His plans was bound by the will of a creature, and that man would not have been redeemed if Mary had not consented. It only means that the consent of Mary was foreseen from all eternity, and therefore was received as essential into the design of God. https://sarahclarkson.com/thoroughly-alive/2017/11/17/annunciation-a-poem-and-a-holy-provocation Annunciation by Denise Levertov We know the scene: ……Arrived on solemn grandeur of great wings, the angelic ambassador, standing or hovering, whom she acknowledges, a guest. But we are told of meek obedience. No one mentions courage.  The engendering Spirit did not enter her without consent. God waited. She was free to accept or to refuse, choice integral to humanness. Aren't there annunciations of one sort or another in most lives? Some unwillingly undertake great destinies, enact them in sullen pride, uncomprehending. More often those moments when roads of light and storm open from darkness in a man or woman, are turned away from in dread, in a wave of weakness, in despair and with relief. Ordinary lives continue.  God does not smite them. But the gates close, the pathway vanishes. She had been a child who played, ate, slept like any other child–but unlike others, wept only for pity, laughed in joy, not triumph. Compassion and intelligence fused in her, indivisible. Called to a destiny more momentous than any in all of Time, she did not quail, only asked a simple, 'How can this be?' and gravely, courteously, took to heart the angel's reply, the astounding ministry she was offered: To bear in her womb Infinite weight and lightness; to carry in hidden, finite inwardness, nine months of Eternity; to contain in slender vase of being, the sum of power–in narrow flesh, the sum of light. Then bring to the birth, ……. a child needing, like any other, milk and love– but who was God! This was the moment no one speaks of when she could still refuse. A breath un-breathed, Spirit, suspended, waiting .... She did object: 'I cannot. I am not worthy,' Nor did she cry out: 'I have not the strength.' She did not submit with gritted teeth, raging, coerced. Bravest of all humans, consent illumined her. The room filled with its light, the lily glowed in it, and the iridescent wings. Consent, courage unparalleled, opened her utterly. +++++ ++++++++ References: Fr Paul W. Kelly https://sarahclarkson.com/thoroughly-alive/2017/11/17/annunciation-a-poem-and-a-holy-provocation Holweck, Frederick. "The Annunciation." The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 1. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1907. 7 Feb. 2020 http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/01541c.htm Shutterstock Licensed Image stock photo ID: 341782814 ATHENS, GREECE - OCTOBER 8, 2015: The fresco of Annunciation on the facade of Metropolitan Cathedaral by B. Antoniasis (1895). By Renata Sedmakova \ +++++ The ANNUNCIATION of the LORD - (25th March) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. +++++++++++++ Lord Jesus, you are mighty God and Prince of Peace. Lord have mercy// You are Son of God and the Son of Mary. Christ have mercy// You are Word made flesh, the splendour of the Father. Lord have mercy. May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +++++++++++++++++++++ Memorial Acclamation 1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Preface of Annunciation // EUCH II //. ++++ Go, and Announce the gospel of the Lord. +++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here.https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address: paulkellyreflections+subscribe@googlegroups.com Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog: "Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL) Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA) "The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers. Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993). (Sydney Australia). Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" - by Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The ….Gloria, copyright 2011 ccwatershed.org} Hymn – "Rainfall – Hail Holy Queen." Music by Paul W. Kelly. 1994, 2021. Words by Paul kelly, based on the Traditional Salve Regina Hymn. Arranged & with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2021. 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 – "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. Copyright (C) 2022 Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.   Our mailing address is: Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Office 50 Fairway Drive CLEAR ISLAND WATERS, QLD  4226 Australia Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe