Today we begin the Season of Advent, a time that the Church describes as ... a period for devout and joyful expectation. Sacred Congregation of Rites, General Norms for the Liturgical Year and the Calendar, n 39 Advent’s character is twofold. Firstly, it is a time when we direct our hearts and minds to the … Continue reading Expressing our Devout and Joyful Expectation
Category: Liturgical Seasons
Jesus never performed miracles, or “signs” as they are described in the Gospel of John, for the sake of it. They always resulted from, and strengthened peoples’ faith. Take, for example, Mary’s faith in her son at Cana, the centurion’s faith that Jesus could heal his daughter without entering under his roof, the woman who … Continue reading Glory
The opening sentences of today’s Gospel reveal a particular cultural and religious understanding of the time - that circumstances such as disability (in this case, blindness) were seen as punishments from God for sin. At the end, the excuse of sin is used by the Pharisees to reject his courageous witness and expel him from … Continue reading Dignity
Social media has changed the way we engage with others and the world. It has the power to connect people in many good ways. It can shed light on important issues with a global audience and give individuals a voice. It provided support for many during COVID lockdowns. Yet we are also learning of its … Continue reading Thirst
The Transfiguration gives Peter, James and John a moment of hope. Having accompanied Jesus for some time, with all the interest and opposition that came with Jesus’ mission, they get a glimpse of who he really is. The three disciples seem to move through emotions of disbelief, fear, awe and reassurance. The moment passes as … Continue reading Hope
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