Liturgy
The gist of each reading is suggested in a single line; then the full text of the readings (NRSV for inclusive language); finally some homiletic reflections on the day’s readings. On many weekdays we offer two approaches to a homily. One is usually based on the first Reading, with sometimes a link to the main idea in the Gospel. The second approach will be drawn from that day’s Gospel. These are loosely based on notes made available by Fr. Martin Hogan p.p.
Fr Pat Rogers cp, Mount Argus, Dublin.
27 Oct 2024 – 30th Sunday (Year B)
27 Oct 2024 – 30th Sunday (Year B) (1) Jeremiah 31:7-9 God promises to lead back the remnant of Israel Thus says the Lord: “Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob, and raise shouts for the chief of the nations; proclaim, give praise, and say, “Save, O Lord, your people, the…
25 Oct 2024 – Friday of Week 29
25 Oct 2024 – Friday of Week 29 Memorials (Cork & Ross, Cloyne): Bl Thaddeus MacCarthy, born in 1455, died in 1492 in Italy. 1st Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6 One body and one spirit, a warm ideal of church unity I, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a…
24 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 29
24 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 29 Optional memorial: St Anthony Mary Claret, 1807-70, founded the Claretians in Spain. 1st Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21 May you grasp the depth of Christ’s love, beyond all knowledge I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on…
23 Oct 2024 – Wednesday of Week 29
23 Oct 2024 – Wednesday of Week 29 Optional memorial: St John of Capistrano, 1386-1456, served under four popes. Patron of jurists and military chaplains. 1st Reading: Ephesians 3:2-12 Paul preaches to the gentiles the rich mystery of Christ Surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace…
22 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 29
22 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 29 Optional memorial: St John Paul II, pope, from 1978-2005. Visited Ireland in 1979. 1st Reading: Ephesians 2:12-22 God has broken down all barriers, to form one new people Remember that you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth…
21 Oct 2024 – Monday of Week 29
21 Oct 2024 – Monday of Week 29 1st Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10 We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit…
20 Oct 2024 – 29th Sunday (Year B) – Mission Sunday
20 Oct 2024 – 29th Sunday (Year B) – Mission Sunday (1) Isaiah 53:10-11 God’s faithful Servant bears the world’s sins and sorrow; but he will prosper in the end It was the will of the Lord to crush his servant with pain. When he make his life an offering…
19 Oct 2024 – Saturday of Week 28
19 Oct 2024 – Saturday of Week 28 Optional Memorials: Ss John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jagues, priests, and Companions, martyrs – all Jesuits, slain by the Huron and Iroquois Indians in 1647/8. St Paul of the Cross, 1694-1775, founded the Passionists in Rome. 1st Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23 May God enlighten your vision…
18 Oct 2024 – St Luke, Evangelist
18 Oct 2024 – St Luke, Evangelist 1st Reading: 2 Timothy 4:10-17 Only Luke is with Paul, at this final stage in his imprisonment Do your best to come to me soon, for Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone…
17 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 28
17 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 28 Memorial: St Ignatius of Antioch, bishop and martyr, died at Rome circa 107. 1st Reading: Ephesians 1:1-10 God chose us in Christ before the world began, to be holy in his sight Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of…
16 Oct 2024 – Wednesday of Week 28
16 Oct 2024 – Wednesday of Week 28 Optional Memorials: St Hedwig, 1174-1243, devoted to charitable works; St Margaret Mary, 1647-90, visionary who revived devotion to the Sacred Heart; St Gall, monk of Bangor who accompanied Columbanus to the continent, lived in a hermitage which later became the monastery of St Gallen. He died…
15 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 28
15 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 28 Memorial: St Teresa of Avila, 1515-82, patron Spain. 1st Reading: Galatians 5:1-6 In Christ Jesus, circumcision no longer counts; only faith acting through love For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke…
14 Oct 2024 – Monday of Week 28
14 Oct 2024 – Monday of Week 28 Optional Memorial: St Callistus 1, became pope in 217, died at the hands of a mob in 222. 1st Reading: Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, 31-5:1 Through faith we are born free. It was for liberty that Christ freed us It is written that…
13 Oct 2024 – 28th Sunday (Year B) – Prisoners Sunday
13 Oct 2024 – 28th Sunday (Year B) – Prisoners Sunday (1) Wisdom 7:7-11 Solomon praises Wisdom as more precious than gold, silver, health, or beauty Therefore I prayed, and understanding was given me; I called on God, and the spirit of wisdom came to me. I preferred her to…
12 Oct 2024 – Saturday of Week 27
12 Oct 2024 – Saturday of Week 27 1st Reading: Galatians 3:22-29 In Christ, all the baptized are equally children of God The scripture has imprisoned all things under the power of sin, so that what was promised through faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe….
11 Oct 2024 – Friday of Week 27
11 Oct 2024 – Friday of Week 27 Optional Memorials: St John XX111, pope, 1881-1963, called the Second Vatican Council; St Canice, abbot, c 527, Derry, died in 603. Built a church in Aghaboe, Ossory, replaced centuries later by his church in Kilkenny. 1st Reading: Galatians 3:7-14 Justification is by…
10 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 27
10 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 27 1st Reading: Galatians 3:1-5 Is the Spirit received by law-abidingness or by trusting faith? You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly exhibited as crucified! The only thing I want to learn from…
09 Oct 2024 – Wednesday of Week 27
09 Oct 2024 – Wednesday of Week 27 Optional Memorials: St John Henry Newman, priest, Ss Denis, bishop and Companions, martyrs, beheaded in 258. Denis, the first bishop of Paris is one of the patrons of France. St john Leonard, 1541-1609, supported the reforms of Trent, helped to found the Propagation of the…
08 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 27
08 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 27 1st Reading: Galatians 1:13-24 Paul once persecuted the church but later met Cephas (Peter) in Jerusalem You have heard, no doubt, of my earlier life in Judaism. I was violently persecuting the church of God and was trying to destroy it. I…
Presider’s Page 13 Oct 2024 – 28th Sunday, Cycle B
Presider’s Page 13 Oct 2024 – 28th Sunday, Cycle B On our journey through life, we pause here for a while, to offer worship and praise. We remember God’s goodness and ask for the gift of wisdom as we continue to hurry towards the Kingdom. • Today is Prisoners’ Sunday…
06 Oct 2024 – 27th Sunday (Year B)
06 Oct 2024 – 27th Sunday (Year B) (1) Genesis 2:18-24 God intends man and woman to become one flesh Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” So out of the ground the Lord…
05 Oct 2024 – Saturday of Week 26
05 Oct 2024 – Saturday of Week 26 Optional Memorial: St Faustina, 1905-38, Polish born, a Sister of Our Lady of Mercy, inspired teh Divine Mercy throughout the world. 1st Reading: Job 42:1-3, 5-6, 12-17 After Job stops complaining, he is blessed more than before Then Job answered the Lord:…
04 Oct 2024 – Friday of Week 26
04 Oct 2024 – Friday of Week 26 Memorial: St Francis of Assisi, 1181-122, founded the Friars Minor and the Poor Clares (with St Clare), suffered teh stigmata. Patron of ecologists. 1st Reading: Job 38:1, 12-21; 40:3-5 Only if Job is himself divine can he challenge God’s ways Then the…
03 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 26
03 Oct 2024 – Thursday of Week 26 Optional memorial: Bl Columba Marmion, Joseph, born in Dublin in 1858, ordained in Rome in 1881, prof in Holy Cross College, Clonliffe, moved to Abbey of Maredsous, Belgium, became abbot, died 30 Jan 1923. Famous for his trilogy, Christ, the Life of…
02 Oct 2024 – The Holy Guardian Angels
02 Oct 2024 – The Holy Guardian Angels 1st Reading: Exodus 23:20-23 I am going to send an angel in front of you, to guard you on the way The Lord spoke to Moses and the people during their journey across the desert desert: ‘I am going to send an…
Presider’s Page 6 Oct 2024 – 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B
Presider’s Page 6 Oct 2024 – 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B October is Mission Month. In two weeks time we will honour the work of missionaries on Mission Sunday; throughout the month, we are reminded that we are called to ‘Go and invite everyone to the banquet’. In…
01 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 26
01 Oct 2024 – Tuesday of Week 26 Memorial: St Thérèse of the Child Jesus, patron of missions, florists, aviators and France. 1st Reading: Job 3:1-3 Job’s anguished lament at the misfortunes heaped upon him Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. He said: “May the…
30 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 26
30 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 26 Memorial: St Jerome, 340-420, translated th Bible into Latin (Vulgate), wrote commentaries on scripture. Patron of Librarians. 1st Reading: Job 1:6-22 Job’s patience is tested to the uttermost One day the heavenly beings came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan…
29 Sept 2024 – 26th Sunday (Year B)
29 Sept 2024 – 26th Sunday (Year B) Sunday 29th September 2024 – World Day of Migrants and Refugees https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2020/09/10/world-day-of-migrants-and-refugees/ (1) Numbers 11:25-29 Moses shares his leadership of God’s People with others who have gifts of prophecy Then the Lord came down in the cloud and spoke to Moses, and…
28 Sept 2024 – Saturday of Week 25
28 Sept 2024 – Saturday of Week 25 Optional Memorials: St Wenceslas, martyr, 905-25, Prince of Bohemia. Patron of brewers. Ss Lawrence Ruiz and Companions, All 16 martyred between 1633-7 i Nagasaki, Japan. 1st Reading: Qohelet 11:9,12:8 A wise man’s lament about the encroachments of old age Rejoice, young man, while…
27 Sept 2024 – Friday of Week 25
27 Sept 2024 – Friday of Week 25 Memorial: St Vincent de Paul, 1580-1660, founded the Vincentians and the Daughters of Charity. Patron of all charitable works. 1st Reading: Qohelet 3:1-11 There’s a time for everything as we go through life For everything there is a season, and a time…
Presider’s Page Sunday 1 Oct 2024 – 22nd Sunday, Cycle B
Presider’s Page Sunday 1 Oct 2024 – 22nd Sunday, Cycle B All are welcome in this place: anyone who is not against us is for us. All may gather here to worship God our Saviour. • Today is World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Penitential Rite At the start of…
26 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 25
26 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 25 Optional Memorial: Ss Cosmas and Damian, martyred in Syria. Patron of physicians. 1st Reading: Qohelet 1:2-11 There’s nothing new under the sun. Vanity of vanities Vanity of vanities, says the Teacher. Vanity of vanities! All is vanity. What do people gain from…
25 Sept 2024 – Wednesday of Week 25
25 Sept 2024 – Wednesday of Week 25 1st Reading: Proverbs (30:5-9 In praise of moderation and sobriety Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or else he will rebuke you, and you will…
24 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 25
24 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 25 1st Reading: Proverbs (21:1-6, 10-13) Advice about self-control from Solomon’s proverbs The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will. All deeds are right in the sight of the doer, but…
23 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 25
23 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 25 Memorial: St Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio), priest, died 23 Sept 1968. Capuchin friar, stigmatist, confessor, friend of all who suffer. St Eunan (Adomnán) – Feast in Raphoe – born in Donegal circa 624, died in 704, Abbot in Iona, wrote a life…
22 Sept 2024 – 25th Sunday (Year B)
22 Sept 2024 – 25th Sunday (Year B) (1) Wisdom 2:12, 17-20 The cruelty of the wicked against the just The godless say to themselves, “Let us lie in wait for the righteous man, because he is inconvenient to us and opposes our actions; he reproaches us for sins against…
21 September 2024 – Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist
21 September 2024 – Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist 1st Reading: Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13 The Church is one body, under the leadership of the apostles I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all…
20 September 2024 – Friday of Week 24
20 September 2024 – Friday of Week 24 Memorial: Kim Taegon Andrea, martyr. Kim (1821, 1846) was the first Korean-born Catholic priest and is the patron saint of Korea. His parents were converts and his father was martyred for practising Christianity.Kim was ordained a priest in Shanghai then returned to…
Presider’s Page for 22 September (Ordinary Time 25)
Presider’s Page for 22 September (Ordinary Time 25) We gather to remember the passion and death of Jesus, and to celebrate his resurrection with joy. He calls us to move beyond rivalry and conflict, to be true followers of the Christian way. Penitential Rite As we enter into the celebration,…
19 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 24
19 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 24 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 The Gospel Paul preached as the basic faith of the Church I would remind you, brethren, in what terms I preached to you the gospel, which you received, in which you stand, by which you are saved,…
18 Sept 2024 – Wednesday of Week 24
18 Sept 2024 – Wednesday of Week 24 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 Paul’s hymn to charity, as the supreme virtue Earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way…. If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not…
17 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 24
17 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 24 Optional memorials: St Robert Bellarmine, SJ, 1542-1621, bishop and doctor of the church. Patron of catechists. St Hildegard of Bingen, 1098-1179, musician, composer, writer and mystic; also a church reformer. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31 Many gifts, all at the service of the…
16 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 24
16 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 24 Optional Memorial: Ss Cornelius, pope and Cyprian, bishop, martyrs. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33 The Eucharistic meal can be profaned by divisions based on class and wealth In the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together…
15 Sept 2024 – 24th Sunday (Year B)
15 Sept 2024 – 24th Sunday (Year B) (1) Isaiah 50:5-9 The suffering servant did not rebel or turn aside The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I did not turn backward. I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who…
14 September 2024 – The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
14 September 2024 – The Exaltation of the Holy Cross 1st Reading: Numbers 21:5-9 When the serpents bit the people, the statue of a bronze serpent brought them healing The people spoke against God and against Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the…
13 Sept 2024 – Friday of Week 23
13 Sept 2024 – Friday of Week 23 Memorial: St John Chrysostom, 347-407, one of the four Great Doctors, the ‘Golden-Mouthed’ Preacher was Archbishop of Constantinople. Patron of preachers. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-27 Paul’s total dedication to his preaching ministry If I preach the gospel, that gives me…
12 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 23
12 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 23 Optional Memorials: The Holy Name of Mary (Lect 11:1438; 1435; 1444.) St Ailbe (Feast in Cashel & Emly), Pre-Patrician? Yet his death is noted in 528. Ordained bishop in Rome by the pope, set up a monastery in Emly. A 9th century Rule bears…
Presider’s Page for 15 September (Ordinary Time 24)
Presider’s Page for 15 September (Ordinary Time 24) In our journey through life we walk the path Jesus walked, so it is hard for us to escape suffering, no more than he could. We remember his suffering and death, knowing that it brought him glory and that it will do…
10 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 23
10 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 23 Optional Memorial: St Peter Claver, SJ, 1580-1654, born in Verdú, Catalonia, worked in Colombia among the slaves in Catagena, where he is reported to have baptised more than 300,000. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 A people saved by Jesus must have high…
09 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 23
09 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 23 Memorial: St Ciarán, (Feast in Clonmacnoise) Roscommon born circa 512, founded Clonmacnoise in 545, died aged 33 while the monastery was being built. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 5:1-8 Applying church discipline to a scandalous case (incest) It is actually reported that there…
08 Sept 2024 – 23rd Sunday (Year B)
08 Sept 2024 – 23rd Sunday (Year B) (1) Isaiah 35:4-7 Take courage, for God will save his people Say to those who are of a fearful heart, “Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come with vengeance, with terrible recompense. He will come and save…
07 Sept 2024 – Saturday of Week 22
07 Sept 2024 – Saturday of Week 22 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 4:6-15 By his his lifestyle and manner, Paul seeks to win back the loyalty of the Corinthians I have applied all this to myself and Apollos for your benefit, brethren, that you may learn by us not to…
06 Sept 2024 – Friday of Week 22
06 Sept 2024 – Friday of Week 22 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 As God’s servant, Paul must not be judged by mere human judgment This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required of stewards that…
05 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 22
05 Sept 2024 – Thursday of Week 22 Optional Memorial: St Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) Born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu on 26 Aug 1910, in Macedonia to a financially comfortable Albanian family. When she was 18, Agnes left home and joined the Sisters of Loreto in Rathfarnham, Ireland for a…
04 Sept 2024 – Wednesday of Week 22
04 Sept 2024 – Wednesday of Week 22 Memorial: St Mac Nissi (Feast in Down & Connor), claimed that St patrick taught him the psalms and baptised him. Chose a hermitage in the Connor area and died early in the sixth century. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 Avoiding envy and…
Presider’s Page for 8 September (Ordinary Time 23)
Presider’s Page for 8 September (Ordinary Time 23) God’s healing power was seen in the ministry of Jesus, and continues in the sacraments, in advances in medicine and in the work of the caring professions. Today we pray for strength, trusting that God will continue to show compassion to the…
03 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 22
03 Sept 2024 – Tuesday of Week 22 Memorial: St Gregory the Great, 540-604, Prefect of Rome, monk and pope, patron of musicians. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:10-16 If taught by the Spirit of God we can judge rightly and know our inmost self These things God has revealed to…
02 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 22
02 Sept 2024 – Monday of Week 22 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 Paul came to them in a weakened state, but still preached with the power of the Spirit When I came to you, brethren, I did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God in lofty words…
01 Sept 2024 – 22nd Sunday (Year B)
01 Sept 2024 – 22nd Sunday (Year B) (1) Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8 Listening to God’s word brings life and wisdom Moses said to the people: “So now, Israel, give heed to the statutes and ordinances that I am teaching you to observe, so that you may live to enter and…
31 Aug 2024 – Saturday of Week 21
31 Aug 2024 – Saturday of Week 21 Optional Memorial: St Aidan of Lindisfarne, bishop and missionary, a monk of Iona of Irish descent, set up in Lindisfarne with the support of King Oswald. Died in 651. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 God chose the world’s despised, so that our…
30 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 21
30 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 21 Optional Memorial: St Fiacre, monk, passed through Normandy, met Faro, patron of Irish pilgrims at Meaux. Fiacre was given a hermitage near Breuil where he died in 670. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:17-25 The mystery of the cross is wiser and stronger…
29 Aug 2024 – The Passion of St John the Baptist
29 Aug 2024 – The Passion of St John the Baptist 1st Reading: Jeremiah 1:17-19 Like Jeremiah, we must speak out against domineering rulers But as for you, [Jeremiah], gird up your loins; stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not break down before them, or…
28 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 21
28 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 21 Memorial: St Augustine, 354-430, Bishop of Hippo, huge theological influence on the Church, especially on the understanding of God’s grace. Patron of theologians. 1st Reading: 2nd Thessalonians 3:6-10, 16-18 Disciples of Christ should work for their living and live at peace with…
Presider’s Page for 1 September (Ordinary Time 22)
Presider’s Page for 1 September (Ordinary Time 22) As we move from summer to autumn, we praise God who sustains us all year round. We ask for help with new undertakings and perseverance with continuing projects, knowing that nothing will work well without God’s grace. • Today is World Day…
27 Aug 2024 – Tuesday of Week 21
27 Aug 2024 – Tuesday of Week 21 Memorial: St Monica, 332-87, converted her husband Patricius to the faith, and also ger son, St Augustine. Patron saint of Mothers. 1st Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 14-17 Do not be unduly excited about the second coming of the Lord As to the…
26 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 21
26 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 21 1st Reading: 2nd Thessalonians 1:1-5, 11-12 By their faith and love, the name of Jesus Christ is glorified Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace…
25 Aug 2024 – 21st Sunday (Year B)
25 Aug 2024 – 21st Sunday (Year B) (1) Joshua 24:1-2, 15-18 When they reach the Promised Land, will they serve the true God? Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem, and summoned the elders, the heads, the judges, and the officers of Israel; and they presented themselves…
24 Aug 2024 – Saint Bartholomew, Apostle
24 Aug 2024 – Saint Bartholomew, Apostle 1st Reading: Revelation 21:9-14 The City of God has 12 gates, representing the 12 apostles Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the…
23 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 20
23 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 20 Optional Memorials: St Rose of Lima, 1586-1617, Dominican tertiary and recluse, helped the poor, originator of social service in Peru. St Eugene (Eoghan), sixth century saint taken to Britain by pirates. after freedom, studied abroad and returned to set set up a foundation…
22 Aug 2024 – The Queenship of Mary
22 Aug 2024 – The Queenship of Mary 1st Reading: Isaiah 9:1-6 God’s promise of joy and restoration to those who sat in darkness There will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land…
21 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 20
21 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 20 1st Reading: Ezekiel 34:1-11 Allegory of the evil shepherds who neglect the sheep and care only for themselves The word of the Lord came to me: Mortal, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel: prophesy, and say to them – to the shepherds:…
Presiders’ Page 25 August (Ordinary Time 21)
Presiders’ Page 25 August (Ordinary Time 21) We gather as people who have chosen to serve the Lord, chosen to walk the Christian way. We worship God who leads us on — and ask for strength to continue as we have begun. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) In every age,…
20 Aug 2024 – Tuesday of Week 20
20 Aug 2024 – Tuesday of Week 20 Memorial: St Bernard, 1090-1153, Cistercian at Citeaux in 1113, Abbot of Clairvaux in 1115, patron of Gibraltar and beekeepers. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 28:1-10 God warns the wealthy seaport metropolis of Tyre to beware of pride The word of the Lord came to…
19 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 20
19 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 20 Optional Memorial: St John Eudes, 1601-80, from Normandy, France, founded a congregation and also the Sisters of our Lady of Charity and Refuge, great preacher and promoter of the Sacred Heart. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 24:15-23 He does not publicly mourn his wife’s…
18 Aug 2024 – 20th Sunday (Year B)
18 Aug 2024 – 20th Sunday (Year B) (1) Proverbs (9:1-6 Wisdom has built her house with seven pillars Wisdom has built her house, she has hewn herself seven pillars. She has slaughtered her animals, she has mixed her wine, she has also set her table. She has sent out…
17 Aug 2024 – Saturday of Week 19
17 Aug 2024 – Saturday of Week 19 Memorial: Our Lady of Knock – readings Lect 11: 1421-49 National Novena 2024: ‘Whispering with God’….How Do You Pray? The National Novena to Our Lady of Knock takes place from 14 to 22 August. Daily ceremonies take place at 3pm and 8pm. Workshops take…
16 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 19
16 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 19 Optional Memorial: ST Stephen of Hungary, 975-1038, first King of Hungary and its Patron Saint, worked for the conversion of his people to Christianity. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 16:1-15 Israel is like a baby girl, neglected but later espoused and loved by God…
Presider’s Page for 18 August (Ordinary Time 20)
Presider’s Page for 18 August (Ordinary Time 20) Whoever eats the flesh of the Lord and drinks his blood will live for ever. We celebrate Jesus’ promise, believing we will share the eternal destiny of all who have this divine life in them. Penitential Rite To prepare ourselves to celebrate…
15 August 2024 – The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
15 August 2024 – The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1st Reading: Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10 The woman and the dragon depicted the persecuted church; but came to include the Assumption of our Lady Then God’s temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen…
14 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 19
14 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 19 Memorial: St Maximilian Kolbe, 1894-1941, a Conventual Franciscan who worked in the apostolate of the press in Poland and Japan. He die din Auschwitz. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 9:1-7; 10:18-22 Only those who were signed by God’s angel escape, when the glory of…
Presider’s Page for 15 August (Assumption of the BVM)
Presider’s Page for 15 August (Assumption of the BVM) Note: 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 next century. It celebrates Mary’s passing over,…
13 Aug 2024 – Tuesday of Week 19
13 Aug 2024 – Tuesday of Week 19 Optional Memorials: Ss Pontian, pope, and Hippolytus, priest, martyrs. St Fachtna (Ross, Feast), scripture scholar, founded the monastery at Ross Carbery (Ross Ailithir), West Cork, died circa 600. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 2:8-3:4 The prophet eats the scroll, then goes to speak the…
12 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 19
12 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 19 Optional Memorials: St Jane Frances de Chantral, 1572-1641, founded the Congregation of the Visitation with St Frances de Sales. St Muredach, (Killala, Feast) founder of church in Killala; St Attracta, virgin (Achonry, Feast) sixth century healer whose convents were noted for hospitality and charity to…
11 Aug 2024 – 19th Sunday (Year B)
11 Aug 2024 – 19th Sunday (Year B) (1) 1 Kings 19:4-8 Revived by miraculous food and drink, Elijah reaches the mountain of God Elijah went a day’s journey into the desert, and came and sat down under a solitary broom tree. He asked that he might die: “It is…
Presider’s Page for 11 August (Ordinary Time 19)
Presider’s Page for 11 August (Ordinary Time 19) We gather together as friends, called by the Lord to forgive each other as quickly as God forgives us. Penitential Rite Let us call to mind our sins (pause) I confess….. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) God, our Father and provider, whose…
10 Aug 2024 – St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr
10 Aug 2024 – St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr Readings: 2 Cor 9:6-10; Ps 111:1-2, 5-9, R/ v5. John 12: 24-26 First Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6-10 The one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give…
09 Aug 2024 – Saint Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein)
09 Aug 2024 – Saint Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein) 1st Reading: Hosea 2:16-17; 21-22 God’s love for his people, Israel, is like a husband’s love for a wife On that day, says the Lord, you will call me, “My husband,” and no longer will you call me, “My Baal.” For…
08 Aug 2024 – Thursday of Week 18
08 Aug 2024 – Thursday of Week 18 Memorial: St Dominic, 1170-1221, a Spaniard who founded the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) to counteract the Albigensian heresy. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34 The new covenant will not be inscribed on rock but on the flesh of the heart; all will know the…
07 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 18
07 Aug 2024 – Wednesday of Week 18 Optional Memorials: Ss Sixtus 11, pope, and four deacon Companions, all martyred in 258. St Cajetan, 1480-1547, founded the Theatines to renew sacramental life within the Church. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-7 Jeremiah foretells the joyful reunion of Israel’s northern tribes with Jerusalem At…
06 August 2024 – The Transfiguration of the Lord
06 August 2024 – The Transfiguration of the Lord Theme: Three apostles were priveleged to witness the inner life of Christ, revealed to them in splendour oh4>the holy mountain. We pray for a deeper experience of God in our own lives, and to share in his divine life 1st Reading:…
05 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 18
05 Aug 2024 – Monday of Week 18 Optional Memorial: Dedication of the Basilica of St Mary Major, built by Pope Sixtus 111 after the Council of Ephesus (431). It is the first church in the West named in honour of the Mother of God. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 28:1-17…
04 Aug 2024 – 18th Sunday (Year B)
04 Aug 2024 – 18th Sunday (Year B) (1) Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15 God feeds the hungry Israelites with manna and quails The whole congregation of the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron in the desert. The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the hand of the…
03 Aug 2024 – Saturday of Week 17
03 Aug 2024 – Saturday of Week 17 1st Reading: Jeremiah 26:11-16, 24 In spite of threats, Jeremiah stands by his threats against Jerusalem and its temple Then the priests and the prophets said to the officials and to all the people, “This man deserves the sentence of death because…
02 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 17
02 Aug 2024 – Friday of Week 17 Optional Memorials: St Eusebius of Vercelli, bishop who preached against Arianism; St Peter Julian Eymard, 1811-6, priest who established the Blessed Sacrament Fathers and with Marguerite Guillot, the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 26:1-9 Jerusalem will be devastated like Shiloh where…
01 Aug 2024 – Thursday of Week 17
01 Aug 2024 – Thursday of Week 17 Memorial: St Alphonsus Liguoiri, 1696-1787, founder of the Redemptorist Congregation, a great preacher and writer of theology. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 18:1-6 Like a potter, God re-forms Israel from clay that was previously formless The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord:…
31 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 17
31 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 17 Memorial: St Ignatius of Loyola, 1491-1556 – The founder of the Jesuits was on his way to military fame and fortune when a cannon ball shattered his leg. Having seen the Mother of God in a vision, he made a pilgrimage to…
Presider’s Page for 4 August (Ordinary Time 18)
Presider’s Page for 4 August (Ordinary Time 18) From the days when the Jewish people wandered in the desert to this very day, God has been ‘food to the hungry’ and ‘meaning to those who lose their way’. We celebrate our Lord’s loving-kindness and call to mind moments when we…
30 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 17
30 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 17 Optional Memorial: St Peter Chrysologus, died c 450, Bishop of Ravenna, famous for preaching. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 14:17-22 Jeremiah laments his people’s destruction and begs God for mercy You shall say to them this word: Let my eyes run down with tears…
29 July 2024 – Saint Martha (and Mary and Lazarus) of Bethany
29 July 2024 – Saint Martha (and Mary and Lazarus) of Bethany Martha is mentioned in the Gospels of Luke and John. She lived in the village of Bethany near Jerusaleh4>with her siblings Lazarus and Mary. She welcomed Jesus and the disciples into her home, and was witness to the…
28 July 2024 – 17th Sunday (Year B)
28 July 2024 – 17th Sunday (Year B) World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly (see prayer at bottom of page) (1) 2 Kings 4:42-44 Elisha provides food for a hundred men A man came from Baal-shalishah, bringing food from the first fruits to the man of God: twenty loaves…
27 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 16
27 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 16 1st Reading: Jeremiah 7:1-11 Words and ceremonies cannot absolve us of our obligations to social justice The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: Stand in the gate of the Lord’s house, and proclaim there this word, and say, Hear the…
26 July 2024 – Friday of Week 16
26 July 2024 – Friday of Week 16 Memorial: Ss Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin. Lect 11:1115 – See readings at bottom of this page. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 3:14-17 Israel and Judah will be united and all nations will assemble at Jerusalem Return, O faithless children, says the…
25 July 2024 – Saint James, Apostle
25 July 2024 – Saint James, Apostle 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 Although only a “clay jar” Paul is willing to die, that others may live But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does…
24 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 16
24 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 16 Optional Memorials: St Sharbel Maklūf, a monk of St Maron at Annaya, ordained in 1859, a hermit from 1875 to his death in 1898. Great devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. St Declan: Bp of Waterford & Lismore, a pre-Patrician saint of noble blood,…
23 July 2024 – Saint Bridget of Sweden, Patron of Europe
23 July 2024 – Saint Bridget of Sweden, Patron of Europe Bridget of Sweden (1303-1373) was a mystic also given to works of charity and founder of the Bridgettine nuns after the death of her husband, to whom she had borne eight children. She is one of the six patron…
22 July 2024 – St Mary Magdalene
22 July 2024 – St Mary Magdalene 1st Reading (Option 1): Song of Songs (3: 1-4 I have found him whom my heart loves. The bride says this: On my bed, at night, I sought him whom my heart loves. I sought but did not find him. So I will…
21 July 2024 – 16th Sunday (Year B)
21 July 2024 – 16th Sunday (Year B) (1) Jeremiah 23:1-6 God will raise up worthy shepherds for his people The Lord says, “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!” says the Lord. Therefore thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, concerning the…
20 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 15
20 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 15 Optional Memorial: St Apollinaris, preached in Ravenna in the second century when he was martyred. 1st Reading: Micah 2:1-5 When the wealthy covet and steal the lands of others, their own land will fall to their captors Alas for those who devise…
19 July 2024 – Friday of Week 15
19 July 2024 – Friday of Week 15 1st Reading: Isaiah 38:1-6, 21-22 King Hezekiah is cured of illness; as a sign of full health God turns the sun’s rays backward In those days Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz…
Presider’s Page for 21 July (Ordinary Time 16)
Presider’s Page for 21 July (Ordinary Time 16) Our God is like a shepherd who always looks after the flock: the Lord cares for us in all our needs. Penitential Rite The Good Shepherd lifts our drooping spirits, so we can bring our sins and seek forgiveness (pause) Lord Jesus,…
18 July 2024 – Thursday of Week 15
18 July 2024 – Thursday of Week 15 1st Reading: Isaiah 26:7-9, 12, 16-19 A prayer of quiet confidence, awaiting the dawn of God’s justice The way of the righteous is level; O Just One, you make smooth the path of the righteous. In the path of your judgments, O…
17 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 15
17 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 15 1st Reading: Isaiah 10:5-7, 13-16 Assyria was used to punish Israel but later was discarded for interfering with God’s plans for his people Ah, Assyria, the rod of my anger, the club in their hands is my fury! Against a godless nation…
16 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 15
16 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 15 Optional Memorial: Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Lect 11: 1103 for readings. 1st Reading: Isaiah 7:1-9 During a national crisis people must first turn to a deeper faith in God In the days of Ahaz son of Jotham son of Uzziah, king…
15 July 2024 – Monday of Week 15
15 July 2024 – Monday of Week 15 Memorial: St Bonaventure, 1221-74, born in Tuscany, Minister General of the Franciscans, Cardinal Archbishop of Albano, theologian of the Council of Lyons. 1st Reading: Isaiah 1:10-17 Formal worship from people who oppress of the poor is spurned by God Hear the word…
14 July 2024 – 15th Sunday (Year B)
14 July 2024 – 15th Sunday (Year B) (1) Amos 7:12-15 Amos the herdsman is called by God to be a prophet Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, said to Amos, “O seer, go, flee away to the land of Judah, earn your bread there, and prophesy there; but never again…
13 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 14
13 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Henry, 973-1024, Duke of Bavaria and later Emperor. A just ruler, humble man of prayer and reformer of the Church. 1st Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8 While praying in the temple, Isaiah is called to his great prophetic ministry In the…
12 July 2024 – Friday of Week 14
12 July 2024 – Friday of Week 14 1st Reading: Hosea 14:2-9 A call to repentance and renewal Return, O Israel, to the Lord your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity. Take words with you and return to the Lord; say to him, “Take away all guilt;…
11 July 2024 – Saint Benedict of Nursia, Patron of Europe
11 July 2024 – Saint Benedict of Nursia, Patron of Europe 1st Reading: Proverbs (2:1-10 The value of wisdom, devotion and fear of the Lord, so exemplified in Saint Benedict My child, if you accept my words and treasure up my commandments within you, making your ear attentive to wisdom…
10 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 14
10 July 2024 – Wednesday of Week 14 1st Reading: Hosea 10:1-3, 7-8, 12 Israel’s infidelity has produced a seemingly hopeless situation Israel is a luxuriant vine that produces his fruit. According to the abundance of his fruit he has multiplied his altars. As their land has prospered, they have…
Presider’s Page for 14 July (Ordinary Time 15)
Presider’s Page for 14 July (Ordinary Time 15) God has blessed us in very many ways: God has showered grace upon us. During today’s gathering, we give thanks to the Lord for all we have received. (In Ireland: Today is the National Day of Commemoration of those who died in past…
09 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 14
09 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: Ss Augustine Zhao Rong, priest, and his Companions, martyrs. Born 1746, ordained and martyred in 1815. Memorial also commemorates 119 companions, martyred in China over several centuries, especially during the Boxer Uprising. 1st Reading: Hosea 8:4-7, 11-13 As penalty for…
08 July 2024 – Monday of Week 14
08 July 2024 – Monday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Kilian, bishop and martyr, born in Mullagh (Kilmore). Left Ireland with 11 companions and became known as the Apostle of Thuringia and eastern Franconia. Martyred in 689 with Kolonot and Totnan. Buried in Würzburg. 1st Reading: Hosea 2:16-18, 21-22…
07 July 2024 – 14th Sunday (Year B)
07 July 2024 – 14th Sunday (Year B) (1) Ezekiel 2:2-5 God sends Ezekiel to call the people to repentance The spirit entered into me and set me on my feet; and I heard him speaking to me. He said: “Mortal, I am sending you to the people of Israel,…
06 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 13
06 July 2024 – Saturday of Week 13 Optional Memorials: St Maria Goretti, 1890-1902, stabbed to death in defence of her virtue. St Moninne of Killeavy founded a community at Sliabh Gullion, Armagh, died c 517/8. 1st Reading: Amos 9:11-15 The Davidic dynasty will be restored, and the land will be…
05 July 2024 – Friday of Week 13
05 July 2024 – Friday of Week 13 Optional Memorial: St Anthony Zaccaria, 1502-39, a medical doctor before he was ordained; founded the Barnabites. 1st Reading: Amos 8:4-6, 9-12 If glaring injustices remain unchecked, a famine for meaning will blight our lives Hear this, you that trample on the needy,…
04 July 2024 – Thursday of Week 13
04 July 2024 – Thursday of Week 13 Optional Memorial: St Elizabeth of Portugal, 1271-1336 of the House of Aragon, unhappily married to the King of Portugal, widowed, then live din poverty as a Franciscan tertiary. 1st Reading: Amos 7:10-17 Expelled from the Bethel sanctuary, Amos announces God’s Word Then…
03 July 2024 Wednesday – St Thomas, Apostle (Feast)
03 July 2024 Wednesday – St Thomas, Apostle (Feast) First reading Ephesians 2:19-22 In Christ you are no longer aliens, but citizens like us You are no longer aliens or foreign visitors: you are citizens like all the saints, and part of God’s household. You are part of a building…
02 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 13
02 July 2024 – Tuesday of Week 13 1st Reading: Amos 3:1-8. 4:11-12 Amos warns of the need for conversion Hear this word that the Lord has spoken against you, O people of Israel, against the whole family that I brought up out of the land of Egypt: You only…
01 July 2024 – Monday of Week 13
01 July 2024 – Monday of Week 13 Memorial: St Oliver Plunkett of Irish nobility, ordained in Rome 1654; AB Armagh 1669; arrested in 1679 in Dundalk, found guilty in London of ‘promoting the Catholic faith’; hanged, drawn and quartered in Tyburn, London on 1 July 1681. Beatified in 1920;…
30 June 2024 – 13th Sunday
30 June 2024 – 13th Sunday (Year B) (1) Wisdom 1:13-15, 2:23-24 All that God does is wholesome, and he intends us to enjoy a blessed immortality God did not make death, and he does not delight in the death of the living. For he created all things so that…
29 June 2024 – Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
29 June 2024 – Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles 1st Reading: Acts 2:1-11 Peter is imprisoned, but an angel sets him free to continue leading the church About that time King Herod laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church. He had James, the brother of John, killed…
28 June 2024 – Friday of Week 12
28 June 2024 – Friday of Week 12 Memorial: St Iraneus, lived just after the Apostles. Bishop of Lyons in Gaul. More details: https://biblical.ie/page.php?fl=Patristic/Irenaeus_1 1st Reading: 2 Kings 25:1-12 After Jerusalem revolts again, the Babylonians destroy the city and deports the survivors And in the ninth year of…
27 June 2024 – Thursday of Week 12
27 June 2024 – Thursday of Week 12 Optional Memorial: St Cyril of Alexandria, 370-444, patriarch of Alexandria, fought against Nestorianism (the independence of the divine and human natures of Christ) at the Council of Ephesus 431, which proclaimed Mary the Mother of God. 1st Reading: 2 Kings 24:8-17 The…
26 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 12
26 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 12 1st Reading: 2 Kings 22:8-13; 23:1-3 When Deuteronomy is rediscovered in the temple, it leads to reform The high priest Hilkiah said to Shaphan the secretary, “I have found the book of the law in the house of the Lord.” When Hilkiah…
25 June 2024 – Tuesday of Week 12
25 June 2024 – Tuesday of Week 12 1st Reading: 2 Kings 19:9-11, 14-21, 31-35a, 36 The Assyrians attack Jerusalem; but Isaiah promises that a remnant will be saved When the king heard concerning King Tirhakah of Ethiopia, “See, he has set out to fight against you,” he sent messengers…
24 June 2024 – Birth of Saint John the Baptist
24 June 2024 – Birth of Saint John the Baptist 1st Reading: Isaiah 49:1-6 The Lord called me before I was born; in my mother’s womb he named me Listen to me, O coastlands, pay attention, you peoples from far away! The Lord called me before I was born, while…
23 June 2024 – 12th Sunday
23 June 2024 – 12th Sunday (Year B) (1) Job 38:1, 8-11 Job’s pride is curbed by awe The Lord addressed Job out of the storm and said: “Who shut within doors the sea, when it burst forth from the womb; when I made the clouds its garment and thick…
Presider’s Page 7 July (Ordinary Time 14)
Presider’s Page 7 July (Ordinary Time 14) Opening Comment As weak and sinful people, we gather to ask the Lord’s mercy. We know his grace is sufficient for us. Together, we praise and thank our God for the constant care we receive. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) God of the…
Presider’s Page 30 June (Ordinary Time 13)
Presider’s Page 30 June (Ordinary Time 13) Opening Comment As summer takes hold, we give thanks to God for all the gifts we enjoy. We rejoice in God’s saving power: death itself is in his hand and all the living depend on God alone. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) God of…
22 June 2024 – Saturday of Week 11
22 June 2024 – Saturday of Week 11 Optional Memorials: St Paulinus of Nola, bishop, 355-431; Ss John Fisher, bishop, 1469-1535 built Christ’s and St John’s Colleges, Cambridge as Vice-Chancellor. Bishop of Rochester, a lover of truth and Thomas More, martyrs, 1478-1535, the first commoner to be Lord Chancellor of England, martyred under…
21 June 2024 – Friday of Week 11
21 June 2024 – Friday of Week 11 Memorial: St Aloysius Gonzaga, religious, born in Lombardy 1568, became a Jesuit in Rome, worked in teh plague hospital, caught the fever, died in 1591, aged 23. Patron of youth. 1st Reading: 2 Kings 11:1-4, 9-18, 20 The life of prince Joash…
20 June 2024 – Thursday of Week 11
20 June 2024 – Thursday of Week 11 Memorial: The Irish Martyrs – see bottom of page for full details. 1st Reading: Sirach 48:1-14 Elijah arose, a prophet like fire, and his word burned like a torch. He brought a famine upon them, and by his zeal he made them…
19 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 11
19 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 11 Optional Memorials: St Romauld, abbot in Tuscany. Died in 1027. (Cashel and Emly): Bl Dermot O’Hurley, bishop and Companions, martyrs – Bp Terence Albert O’Brien OP, John Kearney OFM and William Tirry OSA. Martyred in 1584 1st Reading: 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14 Elijah is…
Presider’s Page for 23 June (Ordinary Time 12)
Presider’s Page for 23 June (Ordinary Time 12) Opening Comment The sight of people being rescued from ricketty boats in the Mediterranean in recent years brings home the plight of immigrants and refugees; seeing rescuers coming to their aid inspires us. God is master of the deep; Jesus stilled the…
18 June 2024 – Tuesday of Week 11
18 June 2024 – Tuesday of Week 11 1st Reading: 1 Kings 21:17-29 Under Elijah’s warning, King Ahab repents and is forgiven Then word of the Lord came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying: Go down to meet King Ahab of Israel, who rules in Samaria; he is now in the…
17 June 2024 – Monday of Week 11
17 June 2024 – Monday of Week 11 1st Reading: 1 Kings 21:1-16 Ahab and Jezebel rob and kill Naboth the Jezreelite Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel, beside the palace of King Ahab of Samaria. And Ahab said to Naboth, “Give me your vineyard, so that I…
16 June 2024 – 11th Sunday
16 June 2024 – 11th Sunday (Year B) (1) Ezekiel 17:22-24 It is the Lord who plants and grows; who raises and humbles Thus says the Lord God: “I myself will take a sprig from the lofty top of a cedar; I will set it out. I will break off…
15 June 2024 – Saturday of Week 10
15 June 2024 – Saturday of Week 10 1st Reading: 1 Kings 19:19-22 Elijah chooses Elisha as his attendant and successor Elijah set out and found Elisha son of Shaphat, who was ploughing. There were twelve yoke of oxen ahead of him, and he was with the twelfth. Elijah passed…
14 June 2024 – Friday of Week 10
14 June 2024 – Friday of Week 10 Optional Memorial: St Davnet, lived and died at Tydavnet, Sliabh Beagh, Co Monaghan. a virgin and founder of a church (or monastery). 1st Reading: 1 Kings 19:9-16 Elijah’s encounter with God, at the cave on Mount Horeb Elijah came to a cave,…
13 June 2024 – Thursday, Week 10
Thursday 13 June 2024 Memorial: St Anthony of Padua, died in 1231, aged 36. Born in Portugal, joined the Frans and preached against heresy in France and italy. 1st Reading: 1 Kings 18:41-46 A small dark cloud develops into a heavy rainstorm Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and…
12 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 10
12 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 10 1st Reading: 1 Kings 18:20-39 Elijah’s contest with the prophets of Ba’al [At Elijah’s prompting] Ahab sent to all the Israelites and assembled the prophets at Mount Carmel. Elijah then came near to all the people, and said, “How long will you…
11 June 2024 – St Barnabas, apostle
11 June 2024 – St Barnabas, apostle Barnabas was born in Cyprus, one of the first converts in Jerusalem and taught at Antioch. A companion of St Paul on his first missionary journey, took part in the Council of Jerusalem. Returned to Cyprus where he died. 1st Reading: Acts 11:21-26;…
Presider’s Page for 16 June (Ordinary Time Week 11)
Presider’s Page for 16 June (Ordinary Time 11) Throughout these summer months, trees, plants and grasses grow and flourish. Our faith is also to grow and flourish during these Sundays of Ordinary Time. The green vestments worn by the celebrant signify continuing growth in faith. • Today is celebrated as…
10 June 2024 – Monday of Week 10
10 June 2024 – Monday of Week 10 Optional Memorials: St Ephrem, deacon and doctor of the church; St Columba (Colum Cille), born in Gartan, Co Donegal in 521 of royal lineage. Founded monasteries in Derry, Durrow, Iona and (possibly) Kells. Iona was teh principal foundation. Columba died on 9 June…
9 June 2024 – 10th Sunday
9 June 2024 – 10th Sunday (Year B) Evil is too well documented to be dismissed as just a religious concept. It thrives precisely because many choose to ignore it. Like the psalmist, we recognise our complicity and seek forgiveness. (1) Genesis 3:9-15 Adam and Eve were tempted and sinned….
08 June 2024 – The Immaculate Heart of Mary
08 June 2024 – The Immaculate Heart of Mary 1st Reading: Isaiah 61:9-11 I will greatly rejoice, my whole being shall exult in my God Their descendants shall be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge that they are a people…
7 June 2024 – The Most Sacred Heart
7 June 2024 – The Most Sacred Heart, Year B 1st Reading: Hosea 11:1, 3-4, 8-9 I have no wish to destroy Thus says the Lord: When Israel was a child I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. I myself taught Ephraim to walk, I took them…
06 June 2024 – Thursday of Week 9
06 June 2024 – Thursday of Week 9 Optional Memorials: St Norbert, 1080-1134, AB of Magdeburg, founder of the Norbertine Canons. St Jarlath, (Feast in Tuam), disciple of St Enda, taught by St Benignus. Was an abbot bishop of the monastery he founded in Tuam in the sixth century. 1st…
05 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 9
05 June 2024 – Wednesday of Week 9 Memorial: St Boniface, 673-754, born in Devonshire, a missionary in Germany, founded monasteries in Bavaria, including Fulda in 735. 1st Reading: 2 Timothy 1:1-3, 6-12 Rekindle the flame of your vocation, and endure for the Gospel Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus…
Presider’s Page for 9 June (Ordinary Time Week 10)
Presider’s Page for 9 June (Ordinary Time Week 10) Now that Easter and all the feasts that follow it have been celebrated, the journey through the Sundays of the year starts again. From now until next Advent, we will listen to St Mark’s Gospel most Sundays, and discover Jesus through…
04 June 2024 – Tuesday of Week 9
04 June 2024 – Tuesday of Week 9 Memorial: Ss Charles Lwanga and Companions, 22 Ugandan youths martyred in 1886. 1st Reading: 2 Peter 3:12-15, 17-18 We are waiting for the coming of the day of God We are waiting for the coming of the day of God, because of…
03 June 2024 – Monday of Week 9
03 June 2024 – Monday of Week 9 Memorial (Feast, Dublin): St Kevin, settled in Glendalough where a monastic settlement grew after his death in 618. 1st Reading: 2 Peter 1:2-7 God has given us all we need to live well, sharing in divine life May grace and peace be…
2 June 2024 – Corpus Christi
2 June 2024 – Corpus Christi, Year B 1st Reading: Exodus 24:3-8 Ratification by Moses and the people of their covenant with God on Mount Sinai Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord and all the ordinances; and all the people answered with one voice,…
1 June 2024 – Saturday of Week 8
1 June 2024 – Saturday of Week 8 Memorial: St Justin, martyred c 165, born in the holy Land and settled in Rome, remembered for his defence of Christian belief and practice. 1st Reading: Epistle of Jude, verses 17; 20-25 Persevere in God’s love, and welcome the mercy of Our…
31 May 2024 – Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
31 May 2024 – Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1st Reading: Zephaniah 3:14-18 A hymn of joy to God my Saviour Sing aloud, O daughter Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away the judgments against you, he…
30 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 8
30 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 8 1st Reading: 1 Peter 2:2-5; 9-12 Like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation — if indeed you have tasted that…
29 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 8
29 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 8 Optional Memorial: St Paul V1, 1897-1978, elected pope in 1963 and continued Vat 11. 1st Reading: 1 Peter 1:18-25 We are ransomed with the precious blood of Christ You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors,…
Presider’s Page for 2 June (Corpus Christi)
Presider’s Page for 2 June (Corpus Christi) Today we honour the Body and Blood of Christ, the food that sustains us on our pilgrimage through life. Penitential rite: As we prepare to reflect on the mystery of the Eucharist, let us recall the power of God to lift us from our…
28 May 2024 – Tuesday of Week 8
28 May 2024 – Tuesday of Week 8 1st Reading: 1 Peter 1:10-16 The Passion of Christ was revealed, and we must share in it Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that was to be yours made careful search and inquiry, inquiring about the person or…
27 May 2024 – Monday of Week 8
27 May 2024 – Monday of Week 8 Optional Memorial: St Augustine of Canterbury, a Roman monk who set up his see at Canterbury and was successful at conversions in the south of England. 1st Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9 Peter praises the saving mercy of God, on the occasion of…
26 May 2024 – The Most Holy Trinity
26 May 2024 – The Most Holy Trinity, Year B 1st Reading: Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40 The Lord himself is God in heaven above and on earth below: there is no other Moses said to the people: ‘Put this question to the ages that are past, that went before you, from…
25 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 7
25 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 7 Optional Memorials: St Bede, 673-735, monk of Jarrow, historian, biblical scholar and patron of scholars. St Gregory V11, 1028-85, was hildebrand of Tuscany, a Cluniac monk in Rome who became pope, worked for reform and died in exile in Salerno. St Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi, 1566-1607,…
24 May 2024 – Friday of Week 7
24 May 2024 – Friday of Week 7 Day of Prayer for the Church in China 1st Reading: James 5:9-12 Take the prophets as your models in speaking the truth Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is sanding at…
23 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 7
23 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 7 1st Reading: James 5:1-6 Those who get rich by injustice will suffer at the judgment Come now, you rich people, weep and wail for the miseries that are coming to you. Your riches have rotted, and your clothes are moth-eaten. Your gold…
22 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 7
22 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 7 Optional Memorial: St Rita of Cascia, 1386-1452, a widow who entered the Augustinian convent in Cascia and spent 40 years in prayer and charity, and working for peace in the region. 1st Reading: James 4:13-17 We do not know what kind of…
Presider’s Page for 26 May (Trinity Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 26 May (Trinity Sunday) We celebrate Trinity Sunday today. The feast gives us an opportunity to reflect on the mystery of God, who creates, redeems and makes us holy. Penitential rite: As we gather to worship God, let us call to mind our need of divine forgiveness: (pause)…
21 May 2024 – Tuesday of Week 7
21 May 2024 – Tuesday of Week 7 Optional Memorial: Ss Christopher Magallánes, priest, and Companions, martyrs. These 25 priests and laymen were executed in 1927 in Mexico. 1st Reading: James 4:1-10 Recommendation to sincerity, shunning worldliness and selfishness Those conflicts and disputes among you, where do they come from?…
20 May 2024 – Monday – The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
20 May 2024 – Monday – The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church 1st Reading: Genesis 3:9-15, 20 Enmity between the serpent and the woman But the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?”He said, “I heard the sound of you in the…
19 May 2024 – Pentecost Sunday
19 May 2024 – Pentecost Sunday 1st Reading: Acts 2:1-11 The Spirit of God gives energy to the apostles and sends them out on their mission When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the…
18 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 7 of Easter
18 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorial: St John 1, first Bishop of Rome to visit Constantinople, died in 526. 1st Reading: Acts 28:16-20, 30-31 Paul is imprisoned in Rome, for two years, awaiting trial When we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to live…
17 May 2024 – Friday of Week 7 of Easter
17 May 2024 – Friday of Week 7 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 25:13-21 Paul, in prison at Caesarea, explains his predicament to king Agrippa After several days had passed, King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to welcome Festus. Since they were staying there several days, Festus laid Paul’s…
16 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 7 of Easter
16 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Brendan (Kerry, Clonfert), abbot, Kerryman, born in 486, studied under Finnian. Founded a monastery in Clonfert in 568, died there in 578. 1st Reading: Acts 22:30; 23:6-11 Paul is cross-examined by the Jewish Council, in Jerusalem The…
15 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 7 of Easter
15 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Carthage (Lismore), bishop born in Kerry. Set up a monastery in Rahan in 595, moved to Lismore. Died in 638. 1st Reading: Acts 20:28-38 Paul’s final advice to the church leaders: shepherd the church of God [Paul…
Presider’s Page for 19 May (Pentecost Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 19 May (Pentecost Sunday) Today is Pentecost Sunday, the second climax of the Easter season. We celebrate ‘the great beginning of the Church’, the day the Holy Spirit first came to confused and frightened disciples. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) Send down, O God, upon your people…
14 May 2024 – Saint Matthias, Apostle
14 May 2024 – Saint Matthias, Apostle 1st Reading: Acts 1:15-17; 20-26 Matthias is selected to take the place of Judas Iscariot Then Peter stood up among the believers (numbering about one hundred twenty persons) and said, “Friends, the scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit through David…
13 May 2024 – Monday of Week 7 of Easter
13 May 2024 – Monday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorial: Our Lady of Fatima – apparitions took place in 1917. 1st Reading: Acts 19:1-8 In Ephesus, followers of John the Baptist become full members of the church While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul passed through the interior regions…
12 May 2024 – The Ascension of the Lord, (A, B, C.)
12 May 2024 – The Ascension of the Lord, (A, B, C.) 1st Reading: Acts 1:1-11 Ascension concludes Jesus’ ministry on earth and prepares for the gift of the Spirit at Pentecost In the first book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus did and taught from the beginning until…
11 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 6 Easter
11 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 6 Easter 1st Reading: Acts 18:23-28 Aquila, a learned convert from Judaism, helps the church in southern Greece After spending some time there he departed and went from place to place through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. Now…
10 May 2024 – Friday of Week 6 of Easter
10 May 2024 – Friday of Week 6 of Easter Optional Memorials: St Comgall born c 516 in Antrim. Studied under Finnian of Moville, priested and established a monastery at Bangor c 555-8 and Tiree in Scotland. Died c 602-5. St John of Avila, 1499-1569, priest, apostle of Andalucia, great preacher. 1st Reading:…
09 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 6 of Easter
09 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 6 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 18:1-8 The early days of Paul’s mission in Corinth, and the friends he found there After this Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. There he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had…
08 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 6 of Easter
08 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 6 of Easter Optional Memorial: Bl John Sullivan, convert, born in Dublin 1861, ordained SJ 1907 then to Clongowes Wood College, Kildare, a man of prayer. Died 19 Feb 1933, declared blessed on 13 May 2017 in St Francis Xavier Church, Gardiner St,…
Presider’s Page for 12 May (Ascension of the Lord)
Presider’s Page for 12 May (Ascension of the Lord) The Ascension of the Lord is celebrated today, ‘World Communications Day’. As he left his disciples, Jesus sent them out to spread the Good News. This is our task too. We ask for the grace we need. Alternative Opening Prayer (from the…
07 May 2024 – Tuesday of Week 6 of Easter
07 May 2024 – Tuesday of Week 6 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 16:22-34 By their courage, Paul and Barnabas win new converts, in the Philippi jail The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates had them stripped of their clothing and ordered them to be beaten with rods….
06 May 2024 – Monday of Week 6 of Easter
06 May 2024 – Monday of Week 6 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 16:11-15 When Paul reaches Philippi, Lydia becomes his first European convert We set sail from Troas and took a straight course to Samothrace, the following day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is a leading…
05 May 2024 – 6th Sunday of Easter (B)
05 May 2024 – 6th Sunday of Easter (B) 1st Reading: Acts of the Apostles 10:25-26, 33-35, 44-48 Peter baptises the household of Cornelius On Peter’s arrival Cornelius met him, and falling at his feet, worshipped him. But Peter made him get up, saying, “Stand up; I am only a…
04 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 5 Easter
04 May 2024 – Saturday of Week 5 Easter Optional Memoria; St Conleth (Kildare), abbot and bishop, friend of Brigid. 1st Reading: Acts 16:1-10 Timothy, a half-Jew, joins Paul in the missionary work Paul went on to Derbe and to Lystra, where there was a disciple named Timothy, the son…
03 May 2024 – Saints Philip and James, Apostles
03 May 2024 – Saints Philip and James, Apostles 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 Paul lists the original witnesses of the resurrection, including himself Now I would remind you, brethren, in what terms I preached to you the gospel, which you received, in which you stand, by which you are…
02 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 5 of Easter
02 May 2024 – Thursday of Week 5 of Easter Memorial: St Athanasius, bishop and doctor of the church, born 295, Alexandria. 1st Reading: Acts 15:7-21 Peter and James defend Paul’s missionary practice After there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “My brothers, you know…
Presider’s Page for 5 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 5 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter) We gather in the love of God, redeemed in the death and resurrection of Jesus. We are people with a mission, challenged to grow in love each day. We ask God for divine help with this mission, today and during the…
01 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Easter
01 May 2024 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Joseph the Worker (optional readings Lect 11: 1013 – see commentary and readings below) 1st Reading: Acts 15:1-6 The Council of Jerusalem, on what is needed for salvation Then certain individuals came down from Judea and were teaching,…
30 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Easter
30 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Pius V, 1504-72, Dominican elected pope in 1565, a reformer of the Breviary, Catechism and Missal. 1st Reading: Acts 14:19-28 Paul is stoned and left for dead; but survives to continue his ministry Jews came over…
29 April 2024 – Saint Catherine of Siena
29 April 2024 – Saint Catherine of Siena 1st Reading: 1 John 1:5, 2:2 The message we have heard from him and proclaim to you This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at…
28 April 2024 – 5th Sunday of Easter (B)
28 April 2024 – 5th Sunday of Easter (B) 1st Reading: Acts 9:26-31 Barnabas introduces Paul the convert to the church in Jerusalem When he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples; and they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was…
27 April 2024 – Saturday of Week 4
27 April 2024 – Saturday of Week 4 Optional Memorial: St Asicus, in charge of Elphin church, founded by St Patrick, an expert craftsman in metal work for the patron saint. 1st Reading: Acts 13:44-52 After failing to convert Jews, Paul and Barnabas turn to the Gentiles The next sabbath…
26 April 2024 – Friday of Week 4 of Easter
26 April 2024 – Friday of Week 4 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 13:26-33 Jesus was put to death, but raised and exalted by God [Paul went on to say] “My brothers, you descendants of Abraham’s family, and others who fear God, to us the message of this salvation has…
25 April 2024 – Saint Mark, Evangelist
25 April 2024 – Saint Mark, Evangelist 1st Reading: 1 Peter 5:5-14 Peter’s homily includes mention of Mark among the Christians in Rome (“Babylon”) When the chief shepherd appears, you will win the crown of glory that never fades away. In the same way, you who are younger must accept…
24 April 2024 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Easter
24 April 2024 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Fidelis of Sigmaringen, 1578-1622, a Capuchin, killed extremists. 1st Reading: Acts 12:24-13:5 The growing church sends Barnabas and Saul on mission The word of God continued to advance and gain adherents. Then after completing their mission…
Presider’s Page for 28 April (Easter 5)
Presider’s Page for 28 April (Easter 5) Like branches of one tree, we are held together by our faith in Christ. Because we are all part of this one living plant, we come together in thanksgiving and praise. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) O God, you graft us onto Christ,…
23 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Easter
23 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorials: St George, martyred c 300. Patron of England. St Andalbert, born 956, Bp of Prague, martyred 997. 1st Reading: Acts 11:19-26 Barnabas goes to Antioch and sees the grace of God at work Those who were scattered because of the…
22 April 2024 – Monday of Week 4 of Easter
22 April 2024 – Monday of Week 4 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 11:1-18 By inspiration, Peter baptises the first pagan converts The apostles and believers in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized…
21 April 2024 – 4th Sunday of Easter (B)
21 April 2024 – 4th Sunday of Easter (B) 1st Reading: Acts 4:8-12 By the power of the risen Jesus we can be saved Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, if we are questioned today because of a good deed…
20 April 2024 – Saturday of Week 3
20 April 2024 – Saturday of Week 3 1st Reading: Acts 9:31-42 During Peter’s ministry in Lydda he restores Tabitha to life In those days the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and was built up. Living in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of…
19 April 2024 – Friday of Week 3 of Easter
19 April 2024 – Friday of Week 3 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 9:1-20 On the road to Damascus, Saul converts to the Way Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues…
18 April 2024 – Thursday of Week 3 of Easter
18 April 2024 – Thursday of Week 3 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Laserian, abbot of Leighlin in 7th century, died in 639. 1st Reading: Acts 8:26-40 Philip’s joyful spreading of the faith Then an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Get up and go toward the south to…
17 April 2024 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Easter
17 April 2024 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 8:1-8 After Stephen’s burial, Saul starts persecuting the church Saul approved of their killing him. That day a severe persecution began against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout the countryside of…
16 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 3 of Easter
16 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 3 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 7:51-8:1 Stephen’s temple-criticism stirs up the mob, who put him to death by stoning “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you are forever opposing the Holy Spirit, just as your ancestors used to do. Which…
15 April 2024 – Monday of Week 3 of Easter
15 April 2024 – Monday of Week 3 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 6:8-15 Stephen’s preaching stirs the crowd: Is he against Moses? Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen as…
14 April 2024 – 3rd Sunday of Easter (B)
14 April 2024 – 3rd Sunday of Easter (B) 1st Reading: Acts 3:13-15 Peter blames his Jewish listeners for the death of Jesus, then calls them to repentance The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our ancestors has glorified his servant…
13 April 2024 – Saturday of Week 2
13 April 2024 – Saturday of Week 2 Optional Memorial: St Martin I, elected pope in 649, died in 655. 1st Reading: Acts (6:1-7 Selection and ordination of the church’s first deacons Now during those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because…
12 April 2024 – Friday of Week 2 of Easter
12 April 2024 – Friday of Week 2 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 5:34-42 Gamaliel prudently advises his colleagues against condemning Jesus’ followers a Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, respected by all the people, stood up and ordered the men to be put outside…
11 April 2024 – Thursday of Week 2 of Easter
11 April 2024 – Thursday of Week 2 of Easter Memorial: St Stanislaus, Bp of Krakow, murdered in 1097 1st Reading: Acts 5:27-33 What Peter and the apostles told the Jewish council When they had brought them, they had them stand before the council. The high priest questioned them, saying,…
10 April 2024 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Easter
10 April 2024 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 5:17-26 The Temple police arrest the apostles, but without violence Then the high priest took action; he and all who were with him (that is, the sect of the Sadducees), being filled with jealousy, arrested the apostles…
09 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Easter
09 April 2024 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 4:32-37 The sharing spirit among the early Christians Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held…
08 April 2024 – Annunciation of the Lord
08 April 2024 – Annunciation of the Lord (in place of 25 March) 1st Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14; 8:10 King Ahaz refuses to ask a sign of the Lord; Isaiah promises a child to be called Immanuel Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, “Ask a sign of the Lord your God;…
07 April 2024 – 2nd Sunday of Easter (B)
07 April 2024 – 2nd Sunday of Easter (B) Divine Mercy Sunday 1st Reading: Acts 4:32-35 Total sharing, among the first Christians Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was…
Presider’s Page for 21 April (Fourth Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 21 April (Fourth Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment The fourth Sunday of Easter is often called Good Shepherd Sunday, because the readings are about the care we receive from Christ, our true shepherd. Today is also the day of prayer for vocations. Penitential Rite Knowing the God…
Presider’s Page for 14 April (Third Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 14 April (Third Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment During the Easter season the Church continues to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead, even in these dark pandemic days. Today, we join together to worship God, who has brought about the great victory over sin and death in…
06 April 2024 – Easter Saturday
06 April 2024 – Easter Saturday 1st Reading: Acts (4:13-21) Risking their lives, Peter and John tell what they have seen and heard Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognized them as companions…
05 April 2024 – Easter Friday
05 April 2024 – Easter Friday 1st Reading: Acts (4:1-12 Peter’s belief that there is salvation in no one else but Jesus While Peter and John were speaking to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came to them, much annoyed because they were teaching…
04 April 2024 – Easter Thursday
04 April 2024 – Easter Thursday 1st Reading: Acts 3:11-26 Peter declares Jesus as the Holy and Righteous One, who is victorious over death While the man who was cured clung to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s Portico, utterly astonished….
03 April 2024 – Easter Wednesday
03 April 2024 – Easter Wednesday 1st Reading: Acts 3:1-10 Calling on the name of Jesus, Peter cures the lame man at the temple gate One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, at three o”clock in the afternoon. And a man…
Presider’s Page for 7 April (Second Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 7 April (Second Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment Even though Easter Week is now behind us, today’s liturgy is still filled with the joyful effects of Jesus’ resurrection. We continue to celebrate that great event for the next six weeks, until Pentecost Sunday on 19 May, the…
02 April 2024 – Easter Tuesday
02 April 2024 – Easter Tuesday 1st Reading: Acts 2:36-41 Since God wants all to be saved, Peter calls those who crucified Jesus to repent and be saved Peter said, “Therefore let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this…
1 April 2024 – Easter Monday
1 April 2024 – Easter Monday 1st Reading: Acts 2:14, 22-33 Peter announces the dawning of a new age, with the resurrection of Jesus Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you,…
31 Mar 2024 – Easter Sunday Years A, B, C
31 Mar 2024 – Easter Sunday Years A, B, C 1st Reading: Acts 10:34, 37-43 Peter and the other apostles are witnesses to the resurrection Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the…
31 Mar 2024 – Easter Sunday (Years A, B, C)
31 Mar 2024 – Easter Sunday (Years A, B, C) 1st Reading: Acts 10:34, 37-43 Peter and the other apostles are witnesses to the resurection Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the…
30 Mar 2024 – Holy Saturday
30 Mar 2024 – Holy Saturday Easter Vigil Readings: Old Testament Readings and Psalms Genesis 1:1-2:4a and Psalm 136:1-9, 23-26 Genesis 7:1-5, 11-18; 8:6-18; 9:8-13 and Psalm 46 Genesis 22:1-18 and Psalm 16 Exodus 14:10-31; 15:20-21 and Exodus 15:1b-13, 17-18 Isaiah 55:1-11 and Isaiah 12:2-6 Baruch 3:9-15, 3:32-4:4 or Proverbs…
29 Mar 2024 – Good Friday
29 Mar 2024 – Good Friday (1) Isaiah 52:13-53:12 The humiliations of the suffering servant, who bore the sins of his people See, my servant will prosper, he shall be lifted up, exalted, rise to great heights. As the crowds were appalled on seeing him — so disfigured did he…
28 Mar 2024 – Holy Thursday
28 Mar 2024 – Holy Thursday (1) Exodus 12:1-2, 11-14 Israel’s departure from Egypt, and how this is to be celebrated for all time Now a man from the house of Levi went and married a Levite woman. The woman conceived and bore a son; and when she saw that…
27 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Holy Week
27 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Holy Week (1) Isaiah 50:4-9 The Suffering Servant trusts in God for rescue The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens, wakens my ear…
Presider’s Page for 31 March (Easter Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 31 March (Easter Sunday) This Easter morning we celebrate the central mystery of our faith, the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. He suffered on the cross and died for us, but now he is risen! Introductory Rites: Filled with the spirit of Easter joy, let us…
Presider’s Page for 30 March (The Easter Vigil)
Presider’s Page for 30 March (The Easter Vigil) Opening Comment (after the Service of Light and Exsultet) We gather around the Easter candle, celebrating the Lord’s resurrection. With that light to illumine our way, we remember how God has cared for humanity from the dawn of time. These readings remind us…
Presider’s Page for 28-29 March (Easter Triduum)
Presider’s Page for 28-29 March (Easter Triduum) Opening Comment (Mass of the Lord’s Supper) The liturgy that begins now continues until we reach Easter. We are at the start of a three-day celebration of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. We journey from the Last Supper to Gethsemane tonight, from…
26 Mar 2024 – Tuesday of Holy Week
26 Mar 2024 – Tuesday of Holy Week (1) Isaiah 49:1-6 The life of God’s servant seems a failure, but it bears great fruit Listen to me, O coastlands, pay attention, you peoples from far away! The Lord called me before I was born, while I was in my mother’s…
25 Mar 2024 – Monday of Holy Week
25 Mar 2024 – Monday of Holy Week Solemnity of the Annunciation is transferred to Monday 8 April (1) Isaiah 42:1-7 My servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, the One in whom my soul delights Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I…
24 Mar 2024 – Palm Sunday, (Passion Sunday) Years A, B, C
24 Mar 2024 – Palm Sunday, (Passion Sunday) Years A, B, C Procession of Palms: Mark 11:1-10 When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately…
23 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 5 of Lent
23 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 5 of Lent Optional memorial: St Turibius of Mogrovejo, 1538-1606, Archbishop of Lima. (1) Ezekiel 37:21-28 I will bring them back, and I will cleanse them Say to them, Thus says the Lord God: I will take the people of Israel from the…
22 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 5 of Lent
22 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 5 of Lent Optional memorial: St Macartan (Clogher), first Bishop of Clogher, St Patrick’s ‘strong man’. (1) Jeremiah 20:10-13 Though many plot against God’s servant, he is safe in God’s hands For I hear many whispering: “Terror is all around! Denounce him! Let…
21 Mar 2024 – Thursday of Week 5 of Lent
21 Mar 2024 – Thursday of Week 5 of Lent Optional memorial: St Enda, one of the three great late vocations in Ireland. Associated with Cill Áine, Co Louth, Boyne Valley and Árainn, Co Galway. Died c 520. (1) Genesis 17:3-9 Abraham believe in God’s promises, despite delays and disappointments…
20 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Lent
20 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Lent (1) Daniel 3:14-20, 24-25 Trusting in God, they are saved from the fiery furnace Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods and you do not worship the golden…
Presider’s Page for 24 March (Palm Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 24 March (Palm Sunday) Today’s liturgy gives a preview of the events we will celebrate between Holy Thursday and Easter Sunday: the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. These events are also the focus of this and every Sunday celebration. We ask for God’s help in understanding…
19 Mar 2024 – Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin
19 Mar 2024 – Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 7:4-6, 12-14, 16 From king David’s offspring will come the universal spiritual King But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan: Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the…
18 Mar 2024 – Monday of Week 5 of Lent
18 Mar 2024 – Monday of Week 5 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Cyril of Jerusalem, 315-86, Bishop of Jerusalem. (1) Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 31-62 Susanna is falsely accused; Daniel’s questions uncover the truth There was a man living in Babylon whose name was Joakim. And he took a wife…
17 March 2024 – St Patrick’s Day – 5th Sunday in Lent (B)
17 Mar 2024 – Lent, 5th Sunday, Year B St Patrick, Patron of Ireland 2 Kgs 4: 18-21, 32-37; Ps 16:1, 6-8, 15, R/ v15. Jn 11:1-45 (Lect 1:316) may be used instead of the Lenten readings any day this week. (Reflections on St Patrick at the bottom of this…
16 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 4
16 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 4 (1) Jeremiah 11:18-20 The Just One is led like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter It was the Lord who made it known to me, and I knew; then you showed me their evil deeds. But I was like a gentle…
15 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 4 of Lent
15 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 4 of Lent (1) Wisdom 2:1, 12-22 Malice against the good foreshadows the Passion of Jesus Foolish people reasoned unsoundly, saying to themselves, “Short and sorrowful is our life, and there is no remedy when a life comes to its end, and no…
14 Mar 2024 – Thursday of Week 4 of Lent
14 Mar 2024 – Thursday of Week 4 of Lent (1) Exodus 32:7-14 Though his people rebel, Moses begs another chance for them The Lord said to Moses, “Go down at once! Your people, whom you brought up out of the land of Egypt, have acted perversely; they have been…
13 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Lent
13 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Lent (1) Isaiah 49:8-15 God promises the exiles, “You’ll be a sign of salvation!” Thus says the Lord: ‘In a time of favour I have answered you, on a day of salvation I have helped you; I have kept you and…
Presider’s Page for Sunday 17 March (Lá Fhéile Pádraig, on the Fifth Sunday of Lent)
Presider’s Page for Sunday 17 March (Lá Fhéile Pádraig, on the Fifth Sunday of Lent) Opening Comment As the fifth week of Lent begins in other countries, we pause from our lenten penances to honour Patrick, the apostle of the Irish. In our celebration of this solemn feast, we worship…
12 Mar 2024 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Lent
12 Mar 2024 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Lent (1) Ezekiel 47:1-9, 12 Life-giving water flows out from the Temple of God Then he brought me back to the entrance of the temple; there, water was flowing from below the threshold of the temple toward the east (for the…
11 Mar 2024 – Monday of Week 4 of Lent
11 Mar 2024 – Monday of Week 4 of Lent Optional memorial: St Aengus, bishop and abbot in Clonenagh, Laois, composed two martyrologies. Died c 824. (1) Isaiah 65:17-21 “Rejoice in what I am creating!” Good things in store for those who love God For I am about to create…
10 Mar 2024 – 4th Sunday of Lent, Year B
10 Mar 2024 – 4th Sunday of Lent, Year B (1) 2 Chronicles 36:14-23 For their sins the people were exiled to Babylon. But God’s mercy will bring them back All the leading priests and the people also were exceedingly unfaithful, following all the abomination of the nations; and they…
09 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 3 of Lent
09 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Frances of Rome, died 1440, founded a society of women and live din it after her husband’s death. (1) Hosea 6:1-6 God wants our love more than ritual sacrifice “Come, let us return to the Lord; for…
08 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 3 of Lent
08 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorials: St John of God, 1495-1550, patron saint of nurses, the sick, heart patients, printers and booksellers. St Senan, a Clareman, anamchara to Ciarán of Clonmacnoise and Brendan; died in 544 (1) Hosea 14:2-10 How God supports those who…
07 Mar 2024 – Thursday of Week 3 of Lent
07 Mar 2024 – Thursday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorial: Ss Perpetua and Felicity, martyred in Carthage in 203 (1) Jeremiah 7:23-28 Life’s highest goal is obedient response to God But this command I gave them, “Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall…
06 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Lent
06 Mar 2024 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Lent (1) Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9 God’s people have clear duties and a high destiny So now, Israel, give heed to the statutes and ordinances that I am teaching you to observe, so that you may live to enter and occupy the…
Presider’s Page for 10 March (Fourth Sunday of Lent / Laetare Sunday / Mothers’ Day)
Presider’s Page for 10 March (Fourth Sunday of Lent / Laetare Sunday / Mothers’ Day) This Sunday we come to the midpoint of Lent. The season is half over, and the celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus is nearer to us. On this midway Sunday, it is traditional…
05 Mar 2024 – Tuesday of Week 3 of Lent
05 Mar 2024 – Tuesday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Kieran, pre-Patrician saint, patron of Ossory. (1) Daniel 3:25, 34-43 Nebuchadnezzar admires the miraculous escape of the young Jews Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up quickly. He said to his counselors, “Was it not three…
04 Mar 2024 – Monday of Week 3 of Lent
04 Mar 2024 – Monday of Week 3 of Lent Optional memorial: St Casimir, 1458-84, a peacemaker, patron saint of Poland. (1) 2 Kings 5:1-15 Naaman the Syrian takes the prophet’s advice and is cured of leprosy Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Aram, was a great…
03 Mar 2024 – Lent, 3rd Sunday, Year B
03 Mar 2024 – Lent, 3rd Sunday, Year B (1) Exodus 20:1-17 The Ten Commandments, given to Moses on Mount Sinai Then God spoke all these words: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall…
Presider’s Page for 3 March (Third Sunday of Lent)
Presider’s Page for 3 March (Third Sunday of Lent) We gather in cold weather this March Sunday in Ireland, praying that God will warm our hearts with love during the Lenten spring. The Lord has the message of eternal life: we come to know this message and deepen our relationship with…
02 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 2 of Lent
02 Mar 2024 – Saturday of Week 2 of Lent (1) Micah 7:14-15, 18-20 Israel’s God is a God of mercy Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock that belongs to you, which lives alone in a forest in the midst of a garden land; let them feed in…
01 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 2 of Lent
01 Mar 2024 – Friday of Week 2 of Lent Optional Memorial: St David, patron of Wales, 6th century abbot, died c 601. Several Irish monks were his students and he influenced monastic development in Ireland. (1) Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13 17-28 Jacob’s sons envy their brother Joseph, and sell him…
29 Feb 2024 – Thursday of Week 2 of Lent
29 Feb 2024 – Thursday of Week 2 of Lent (1) Jeremiah 17:5-10 Blessed are those who trust in the Lord rather than in mere mortal power Thus says the Lord: Cursed are those who trust in mere mortals and make mere flesh their strength, whose hearts turn away from…
28 Feb 2024 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Lent
28 Feb 2024 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Lent (1) Jeremiah 18:18-20 In desperate straits, Jeremiah pins his hope on God “Come, let us decide what to do with Jeremiah,” people say. “There will still be priests to guide us, still wise men to advise us, still prophets to…
27 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Lent
27 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Gregory of Narek, c 950-1003, monk of Armenian Church, mystic and poet, wrote Lamentations (aka Narek), a collection of prayers, abbot and doctor. (1) Isaiah 1:10, 16-20 A call to personal conversion, to remove our sins from…
26 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 2 of Lent
26 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 2 of Lent (1) Daniel 9:4-10 Daniel’s prayer of shame and repentance I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying, “Ah, Lord, great and awesome God, keeping covenant and steadfast love with those who love you and keep your commandments,…
25 Feb 2024 – Lent, 2nd Sunday, Year B
25 Feb 2024 – Lent, 2nd Sunday, Year B (1) Genesis 22:1-2, 9-13, 15-18 The “Binding of Isaac” shows Abraham’s complete obedience to God After these things God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac,…
24 Feb 2024 – Saturday of Week 1 of Lent
24 Feb 2024 – Saturday of Week 1 of Lent (1) Deuteronomy 26:16-19 Walking in the way of the Lord This very day the Lord your God is commanding you to observe these statutes and ordinances; so observe them diligently with all your heart and with all your soul. Today…
23 Feb 2024 – Friday of Week 1 of Lent
23 Feb 2024 – Friday of Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Polycarp, bishop (Smyrna-Izmir in modern Turkey) and martyr, born c 69, disciple of St John, martyred in 155 (1) Ezekiel 18:21-28 Personal responsibility to replace the idea of shared guilt But if the wicked turn away from…
22 Feb 2024 – Chair of St Peter the Apostle
22 Feb 2024 – Chair of St Peter the Apostle 1st Reading: 1 Pet 5:1-4 Peter’s advice to his fellow Church leaders: feed God’s flock with loving respect Now as an elder myself and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory…
21 Feb 2024 – Wednesday of Week 1 of Lent
21 Feb 2024 – Wednesday of Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Peter Damian, 1007-72, a hermit, later Cardinal Bishop of Ostia, a church reformer. (1) Jonah 3:1-10 When Jonah’s preaching bears fruit, God has mercy on Nineveh The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time,…
Presider’s Page for 25 February (Second Sunday of Lent)
Presider’s Page for 25 February (Second Sunday of Lent) As we continue to celebrate Lent, we keep the goal of our journey before us. The gospel of the transfiguration is read on this lenten Sunday each year, to remind us to hold firm to a vision of glory, on dark…
20 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 1 of Lent
20 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 1 of Lent (1) Isaiah 55:10-11 God’s word comes down from heaven like rain, to make the earth fruitful For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it…
19 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 1 of Lent
19 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 1 of Lent (1) Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18 Practical guidance for worship and for social compassion The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them: You shall be holy, for I the Lord…
18 Feb 2024 – Lent, 1st Sunday, Year B
18 Feb 2024 – Lent, 1st Sunday, Year B (1) Genesis 9:8-15 The rainbow as the sign of God’s covenant with mankind Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “As for me, I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with…
17 Feb 2024 – Sat after Ash Wednesday
17 Feb 2024 – Sat after Ash Wednesday (1) Isaiah 58:9-14 If they are converted, they are blessed, with waters that never fail Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and he will say, “Here I am.” If you remove the yoke from…
16 Feb 2024 – Fri after Ash Wednesday
16 Feb 2024 – Fri after Ash Wednesday (1) Isaiah 58:1-9 True religion differs from merely external observance Shout out, do not hold back! Lift up your voice like a trumpet! Announce to my people their rebellion, to the house of Jacob their sins. Yet day after day they seek…
Presider’s Page for 18 February (First Sunday of Lent)
Presider’s Page for 18 February (First Sunday of Lent) Today we celebrate the first Sunday of Lent. All over the world today, children and adults alike are beginning their preparation for baptism at the Easter Vigil. Like them, we begin our own preparations, looking forward to renewing our baptismal vows…
15 Feb 2024 – Thurs after Ash Wednesday
15 Feb 2024 – Thurs after Ash Wednesday (1) Deuteronomy 30:15-20 A warm call to fidelity. Choose life, that you and your offspring may live! Keep the commandments of the Lord your God that I am commanding you today, by loving the Lord your God, walking in his ways, and…
14 Feb 2024 – Ash Wednesday
14 Feb 2024 – Ash Wednesday (1) Joel 2:12-18 Return to me with all your heart. Spare your people, Lord “Now, now,” says the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the…
13 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 6
13 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 6 1st Reading: James 1:12-18 God tempts no one, but is the giver of every good gift Blessed is the one who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised…
12 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 6
12 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 6 1st Reading: James 1:1-11 The testing of your faith produces endurance My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have…
11 Feb 2024 – 6th Sunday (Year B)
11 Feb 2024 – 6th Sunday (Year B) (1) Leviticus (13:1-2, 44-46 Lepers had to live apart. Only if a priest pronounced a leper cured could he or she come back into normal life The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying: “When a person has on the skin of…
10 Feb 2024 – Saturday of Week 5
10 Feb 2024 – Saturday of Week 5 Memorial: St Scholastica, died c 543, sister of St Benedict. Patron of convulsive children. 1st Reading: 1 Kings 12:26-32; 13:33-34 Jeroboam, the rebel king of the north, provides his own sanctuaries and priests Jeroboam said to himself, “Now the kingdom may well…
09 Feb 2024 – Friday of Week 5
09 Feb 2024 – Friday of Week 5 1st Reading: 1 Kings 11:29-32; 12:19 The prophet Ahijah announces the breakup of David’s kingdom When Jeroboam was leaving Jerusalem, the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite found him on the road. Ahijah had clothed himself with a new garment. The two of them…
08 Feb 2024 – Thursday of Week 5
08 Feb 2024 – Thursday of Week 5 International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking. Optional Memorials: St Jerome Emiliani, d 1537, founder of The Clerks Regular of Somaschi for the care of orphans and the poor. Patron saint of orphans. St Josephine Bakhita, 1868-1947, native of Sudan,…
Presider’s Page for 11 February (Ordinary Time 6 / World Day of the Sick)
Presider’s Page for 11 February (Ordinary Time 6 / World Day of the Sick) ‘Whatever you do at all, do it for the glory of God.’ The words are St Paul’s, from today’s second reading. We gather here to give glory to God, praying for the sick, marking the Day…
07 Feb 2024 – Wednesday of Week 5
07 Feb 2024 – Wednesday of Week 5 Optional Memorial: St Mel (Feast in Ardagh and Clonmacnoise), died in 488, like Patrick, a Briton who came to Ireland, with whom he worked until he was ordained in Ardagh. Gave the religious veil to St Brigid. (A Visit to the renovated…
06 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 5
06 Feb 2024 – Tuesday of Week 5 Memorial: Ss Paul Miki and Companions martyred at Nagasaki, Japan in 1597. The six Franciscans, seventeen Franciscan Tertiaries and three jesuits died suspended on crosses. 1st Reading: 1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30 The temple dedication ends with a beautiful prayer Then Solomon stood…
05 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 5
05 Feb 2024 – Monday of Week 5 Memorial: St Agatha, third-century martyr from Catania in Sicily. Patron of Bell-founders. 1st Reading: 1 Kings 8:1-7, 9-13 A cloud of divine splendour fills the sanctuary of the new Temple Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and all the heads of…
04 Feb 24 – 5th Sunday (Year B)
04 Feb 24 – 5th Sunday (Year B) (1) Job 7:1-4, 6-7 Job wrestles with the problem of innocent suffering Job said: “Do not human beings have a hard service on earth, and are not their days like the days of a labourer? Like a slave who longs for the…
03 Feb 2024 – Saturday of Week 4
03 Feb 2024 – Saturday of Week 4 Optional Memorials: St Ansgar, 9th century French born Archbishop of Hamburg who preached in Denmark and Sweden. Apostle of Scandinavia and Patron of Denmark. St Blaise, Bishop of Sebaste, martyred in Armenia in 315. A physician and patron of people…
02 Feb 2024 – The Presentation of Our Lord
02 Feb 2024 – The Presentation of Our Lord 1st Reading: Malachi 3:1-4 When God’s Messenger arrives, he will refine the people See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of…
Presider’s Page for 4 February (Ordinary Time 5)
Presider’s Page for 4 February (Ordinary Time 5) As we come together for worship, each of us brings worries, anxieties and fears. We gather them all together and entrust them to the one who heals his suffering people. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) Out of your power and compassion, O…
01 Feb 2024 – Saint Brigid of Kildare
01 Feb 2024 – Saint Brigid of Kildare 1st Reading: Job 31:16-20; 24-25; 31-32 Job’s generosity towards the needy is reflected in St Brigid’s works of charity I have never withheld anything that the poor desired, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail, or have eaten…
31 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 4
31 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 4 Memorial: St John Bosco 1815-88, born in Piedmont, founded the Salesians, to educate boys for life. Patron saint of youth and Catholic publishers. 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 24:2, 9-17 Having sinned by counting the people, David wants to pay the price himself…
30 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 4
30 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 4 Optional Memorials: St Aidan (Feast in Ferns), aka Maedoc (Mogue) born c 550 probably in Cavan, Studied in Wales, returned and founded a monastery in Ferns where he became Bishop. Died there in 626. …
29 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 4
29 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 4 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13 While fleeing Jerusalem during Absalom’s revolt, David is cursed and accepts it as the will of God A messenger came to David, saying, “The hearts of the Israelites have gone after Absalom.” Then David said…
28 Jan 24 – 4th Sunday (Year B)
28 Jan 24 – 4th Sunday (Year B) (1) Deuteronomy 18:15-20 Moses predicts the coming of a future prophet greater than himself Moses said to the people: “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet lie me from among your own people; you shall heed such a…
27 Jan 24 – Saturday of Week 3
27 Jan 24 – Saturday of Week 3 Optional Memorial: St Angela Merici, 1474-1540, founder of the Ursulines. 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 12:1-7, 10-17 Nathan warns David; his sin with Bathsheba will be punished within his own family The Lord sent Nathan to David. He went to him, and said…
26 Jan 24 – Ss Timothy and Titus, Bishops
26 Jan 24 – Ss Timothy and Titus, Bishops Both died toward the end of the first century. Disciples and associates of Saint Paul the apostle, who seem to have attended the Council of Jerusalem with him. Timothy represented Saint Paul to various communities and, according to tradition, was eventually…
25 Jan 24 – The Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle
25 Jan 24 – The Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle 1st Reading: Acts 22:3-16 Paul’s account of his conversion, to his fellow-Jews, on the steps of the Temple “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, educated strictly…
24 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 3
24 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 3 Memorial: St Francis de Sales, 1567-1622, Bishop of Geneva, founder of the Visitation Sisters. Worked hard to rebuild the Catholic faith after the Reformation. Patron of writers, editors and journalists – ‘writers and critics who prophesize with your pen…’ 1st Reading: 2…
23 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 3
23 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 3 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 6:12-15, 17-19 David dances before the ark being brought into Jerusalem. The celebration ends with a sacred banquet King David was told, “The Lord has blessed the household of Obed-edom and all that belongs to him, because of…
Presider’s Page for 28 January (Ordinary Time 4)
Presider’s Page for 28 January (Ordinary Time 4) We come together to listen to God’s word and share the bread of life together. As God’s family here, we praise the one who has rescued us from sin and darkness, and brought us the hope of heaven. Alternative Opening Prayer (from the…
22 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 3
22 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 3 Optional Memorial: St Vincent, deacon of Saragossa, Spain, martyred in 304. 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 5:1-7, 10 David is anointed and establishes Jerusalem as capital of both north and south, of Israel and Judah All the tribes of Israel came to David…
21 Jan 24 – 3rd Sunday (Year B)
21 Jan 24 – 3rd Sunday (Year B) (1) Jonah 3:1-5, 10 Jonah’s preaching finds an unexpected response from the pagan Ninevites The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time, saying, “Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I…
20 Jan 24 – Saturday of Week 2
20 Jan 24 – Saturday of Week 2 Optional Memorials: St Fabian, pope and martyr, died under Decius in 250. St Sebastian, martyr, a soldier (?) in the persecution of Diocletian. 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 1:1-4 etc David’s grief at the death of Saul and Jonathan After the death of…
19 Jan 24 – Friday of Week 2
19 Jan 24 – Friday of Week 2 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 24:3-21 David refrains from killing Saul and gains the moral high ground He came to the sheepfolds beside the road, where there was a cave; and Saul went in to relieve himself. Now David and his men were…
Presider’s Page for 21 January (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 21 January (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time) Opening Comment The calling of disciples is described in today’s Gospel. We too are called to follow Christ, even in difficult times. As believers, we listen to God’s word, allowing it to steer and support us, every day of our…
18 Jan 24 – Thursday of Week 2
18 Jan 24 – Thursday of Week 2 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (18-25 Jan) starts today. The theme is based on a text from the Gospel of St Luke, with material prepared by an ecumenical team from Burkina Faso, West Africa, facilitated by the local Chemin Neuf Community. …
17 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 2
17 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 2 Memorial: St Anthony, died 356, ‘Father of monasticism’ whose life in solitude attracted many to form communities of hermits. A special blessing on all our lay preachers and leaders today… Gentle reminder – Week of Prayer for Christian Unity starts tomorrow -…
16 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 2
16 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 2 Optional Memorial: St Fursa, Irish-born but brought the Gospel abroad, with his brothers Foillan and Ultan to East Anglia. Went to France c 644, died c 650 in Mézerolles and is buried in Péronne. 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 In Bethlehem Samuel…
15 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 2
15 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 2 Memorial: St Ita (Feast in Limerick), Waterford born, founded a monastery in Killeedy, Co Limerick. Known as ‘Foster-Mother of the Saints of Ireland, she died in 570. 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 15:16-23 For disobeying the prophet Samuel, Saul is deposed as king…
14 Jan 24 – 2nd Sunday (Year B)
14 Jan 24 – 2nd Sunday (Year B) (1) 1 Samuel 3:3-10, 19 The call of young Samuel, one of the great vocation stories Samuel was lying down in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was. Then the Lord called, “Samuel! Samuel!” and he said, “Here…
13 Jan 24 – Saturday of Week 1
13 Jan 24 – Saturday of Week 1 Optional Memorial: St Hilary, c. 315-67, Bishop of Potiers, took a strong stand against Arianism. Exiled, where he wrote major works including De Trinitate, a study of the Trinity. 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 9:1-4, 12-19; 10:1 Saul is anointed by Samuel as…
12 Jan 24 – Friday of Week 1
12 Jan 24 – Friday of Week 1 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 8:4-7, 10-22 When the people demand a king, Samuel warns of the dangers Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah, and said to him, “You are old and your sons do…
11 Jan 24 – Thursday of Week 1
11 Jan 24 – Thursday of Week 1 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 4:1-11 Misusing the Ark of the Covenant, the people are defeated in battle The word of Samuel came to all Israel. In those days the Philistines mustered for war against Israel, and Israel went out to battle against…
10 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 1
10 Jan 24 – Wednesday of Week 1 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 3:1-10 etc From the sanctuary God calls Samuel, and sends him as a prophet Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the Lord under Eli. The word of the Lord was rare in those days; visions were not…
Presider’s Page for 14 January (Ordinary Time 2)
Presider’s Page for 14 January (Ordinary Time 2) Now that the Christmas season is behind us and we are moving into the New Year, the liturgy challenges us to reflect on what following Christ means. We gather as God’s people, called to follow the Lamb of God and we praise…
09 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 1
09 Jan 24 – Tuesday of Week 1 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 1:9-20 Eli promises that Hannah will give birth to a son After they had eaten and drunk at Shiloh, Hannah rose and presented herself before the Lord. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the…
08 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 1
08 Jan 24 – Monday of Week 1 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 1:1-8 Hannah’s grief at being childless; her husband tries to comfort her There was a man of Ramathaim, a Zuphite from the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah son of Jeroham son of Elihu son of…
7 Jan 2024 – The Baptism of the Lord
7 Jan 2024 – The Baptism of the Lord First Reading. Isaiah 55:1-11 Come to the waters, come buy and eat Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why…
6 Jan 2024 – The Epiphany of the Lord
6 Jan 2024 – The Epiphany of the Lord (or the Sunday between 2 January and 8 January) 1st Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6 In those days the Messiah will reveal his glory to all the nations Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen…
Presider’s Page for 7 January (Baptism of the Lord)
Presider’s Page for 7 January (Baptism of the Lord) Today we celebrate the feast of the Baptism of the Lord: it’s the last day of the Christmas season. The baptism of Jesus marked the end of his quiet years in Nazareth and the start of his public ministry. Penitential Rite…
Presider’s Page for Saturday 6 January (Epiphany of the Lord)
Presider’s Page for Saturday 6 January (Epiphany of the Lord) On this feast of the Epiphany we celebrate the revelation of who Christ is. The visit of the three wise men reminds us that Jesus came as the Saviour of all nations, including ours. We worship God who wants all…
5 Jan 2024 – Friday Before Epiphany
5 Jan 2024 – Friday Before Epiphany Optional Memorial: Saint Charles St Charles of Mt. Argus, Dublin, Priest, Religious. Charles John Houben (1821-1893), was a Dutch Passionist priest who served in Dublin in the late 19th-century. He showed extraordinary compassion for the sick and those in need of guidance. Many came…
4 Jan 2024 – Thursday Before Epiphany
4 Jan 2024 – Thursday Before Epiphany 1st Reading: 1 John 3:7-10. How we are reborn as children of God Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. Everyone who commits sin is a child of the devil;…
3 Jan 2024 – Wednesday Before Epiphany
3 Jan 2024 – Wednesday Before Epiphany Optional Memorials: The Holy Name of Jesus; St Munchin (Feast in Limerick), seventh century, patron of Limerick. 1st Reading: 1 John 2:29 – 3:6 We are God’s children now; when he is revealed, we will be like him If you know that he…
2 January 2024 – Tuesday Before Epiphany
2 January 2024 – Tuesday Before Epiphany Memorial: Ss Basil the Great, 330-379, Bishop of Caesarea and theologian of note; and Gregory Nazianzen, 329-89, friend of Basil, Bishop of Sasima, and later of Constantinople. 1st Reading: 1 John 2:22-28 The Holy Spirit received from Jesus, teaches you all things…
01 Jan 2024 -Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God
01 Jan 2024 -Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God 1st Reading: Numbers 6:22-27 A new-year prayer for God to bless and protect his people The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the Israelites: You shall say to them, The…
31 Dec 2023 – Sunday after Christmas. The Holy Family
31 Dec 2023 – Sunday after Christmas. The Holy Family Today we celebrate the domestic life of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, an an inspiration for all families everywhere. 1st Reading: Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3 Abraham and Sarah are given a child as a reward for their faith After these things the…
30 Dec 2023 – 6th Day in the Octave of Christmas
30 Dec 2023 – 6th Day in the Octave of Christmas 1st Reading: 1 John 2:12-17 Do not be absorbed by the world or the things in the world I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven on account of his name. I am writing to…
29 Dec 2023 – 5th Day in the Octave of Christmas
29 Dec 2023 – 5th Day in the Octave of Christmas Optional Memorial: Thomas a Becket (1118-1170) from Cheapside in London, was appointed first as chancellor and then archbishop (1162) by order of his friend, King Henry II. As archbishop he sided with the pope on the respective authority of…
Presider’s Page for 31 December (Holy Family)
Presider’s Page for 31 December (Holy Family) On this first Sunday after Christmas Day, we honour the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. We entrust our families to their patronage, and pray for all who have been part of our families, those still alive and those whom we hope…
28 Dec 2023 – Thursday – The Holy Innocents, Martyrs
28 Dec 2023 – Thursday – The Holy Innocents, Martyrs 1st Reading: 1 John 1:5-2:2 Those who walk in darkness, and those who walk in the light Beloved: This is the message that we have heard from Jesus Christ and proclaim to you: God is light, and in him there…
27 Dec 2023, Wednesday – Saint John, Apostle and Evangelist
27 Dec 2023, Wednesday – Saint John, Apostle and Evangelist 1st Reading: 1 John 1:1-4 What we have seen with our eyes, what we have touched with our hands Beloved: What was from the beginning, what we have heard,what we have seen with our eyes, what we looked upon and…
December 26: Feast of St. Stephen, the First Martyr
December 26: Feast of St. Stephen, the First Martyr 1st Reading: Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59 The martyrdom of Stephen the deacon, according to Luke Stephen, filled with grace and power, was working great wonders and signs among the people. Certain members of the so-called Synagogue of Freedmen, Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and…
Christmas Day (25 December)
Christmas Day (25 December) Theme: We celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in our world, though he was with God the Father before all ages. His birth opens up for us a glorious new identity, as children of God. 1st Reading: Isaiah 52:7-10 The joy of the watchmen, at seeing…
24 Dec 2023 – Christmas Midnight Mass
24 Dec 2023 – Christmas Midnight Mass 1st Reading: Isaiah 9:1-7 God brings them from darkness and bring them to peace and security The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness on them light has shined. You have…
24 Dec 2023 – 4th Sunday of Advent
24 Dec 2023 – 4th Sunday of Advent 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16 David is promised a “house” or dynasty Now when the king was settled in his house, and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, the king said to the…
Presider’s Page for 25 December (Christmas Day Mass)
Presider’s Page for 25 December (Christmas Day Mass) We celebrate today an amazing mystery — God is born in time. The eternal God shares our nature, he has pitched his tent in the midst of humanity. With joy in our hearts, we contemplate the mystery of the Word made flesh….
Presider’s Page for 24 December (Christmas Night Mass)
Presider’s Page for 24 December (Christmas Night Mass) In the dark of this winter night, we proclaim the new light that has shone on the world: Jesus Christ is born! With the angels, we worship God who saves us — for through the life, death and resurrection of this child…
Presider’s Page for 23/24 December (Fourth Sunday of Advent)
Presider’s Page for 23/24 December (Fourth Sunday of Advent) Advent is drawing to a close; we have just a day left to prepare for the birth of Christ. On this Sunday, we’re invited to follow Mary’s example and imitate her faith. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal) Here in our midst,…
23 Dec 2023 – Sat Advent Week 3
23 Dec 2023 – Sat Advent Week 3 Optional Memorial: St john of Kanty, 1390-1473, theologian and scripture scholar in Uni of Krakow, Poland. 1st Reading: Malachiah 3:1-4, 4,4-6 God will send a fore-runner to prepare for the final day The Lord God says this: “See, I am sending my…
22 Dec 2023 – Fri Advent Week 3
22 Dec 2023 – Fri Advent Week 3 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 1:24-28 Hannah dedicates her young son to a life of service to God When she had weaned him, she took him up with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine….
21 Dec 2023 – Thurs Advent Week 3
21 Dec 2023 – Thurs Advent Week 3 Optional Memorial: St Peter Canisius, 1521-97, Dutch Jesuit, drew up a 211 question (and answers!) catechism in 1555, priest and doctor of the Church. 1st Reading: Song of Songs (2:8-14 Lyrical love-poetry from king Solomon, about the beloved who is coming The…
20 Dec 2023 – Wed Advent Week 3
20 Dec 2023 – Wed Advent Week 3 Kilfenora Feast: St Fachanan, bishop, founded a monastery in and patron of Kilfenora, part of Galway diocese. 1st Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14 King Ahaz refuses to ask a sign of the Lord; Isaiah promises a child to be called Immanuel Again the Lord…
19 Dec 2023 – Tuesday Advent Week 3
19 Dec 2023 – Tuesday Advent Week 3 1st Reading: Judges (13:2-7, 24-25 Manoah’s wife yearns for a son. Samson will be dedicated to God There was a certain man of Zorah, of the tribe of the Danites, whose name was Manoah. His wife was barren, having borne no children….
18 Dec 2023 – Monday, 3rd Week of Advent
18 Dec 2023 – Monday, 3rd Week of Advent Killaloe Feast: St Flannan, 7th century renowned preacher. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 23:5-8 A righteous Branch who will rule with wisdom and justice “The days are surely coming,” says the Lord, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and…
17 Dec 2023 – 3rd Sunday in Advent, B
17 Dec 2023 – 3rd Sunday in Advent, B 1st Reading: Isaiah 61:1-2, 10-11 The Messiah, guided by God’s Spirit. This text describes Jesus’ ministry The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the…
16 Dec 2023 – Saturday of Advent, Week 2
16 Dec 2023 – Saturday of Advent, Week 2 1st Reading: Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11 Lyrical praise of Elijah, whose prophetic word burned like a torch Then Elijah arose, a prophet like fire, and his word burned like a torch. He brought a famine upon them, and by his zeal he…
15 Dec 2023 – Friday of Advent, Week 2
15 Dec 2023 – Friday of Advent, Week 2 1st Reading: Isaiah 48:17-19 If you kept my commandments, your name would last forever Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you for your own good, who leads you…
14 Dec 2023 – Thursday of Advent, Week 2
14 Dec 2023 – Thursday of Advent, Week 2 Memorial: St John of the Cross, 1542-91, Carmelite reformer, writer, doctor of the Church and poet – With the divinest Word / The Virgin made pregnant / Down the road comes walking / If you’ll grant her a room in your…
Presider’s Page for 17 December (Advent 3, GAUDETE)
Presider’s Page for 17 December (Advent 3, GAUDETE) We’re two thirds of the way through Advent. Traditionally, today is called Gaudete Sunday, which means ‘a day for rejoicing’: the pink candle is lit on the Advent wreath. The reason for celebration today is that the day of the Lord’s coming…
13 Dec 2023 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 2
13 Dec 2023 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 2 Memorial: St Lucy, martyred in 304 in Sicily. 1st Reading: Isaiah 40:25-31 Encouragement for the weary people, from God, who strengthens the powerless To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? says the Holy One. Lift up…
12 Dec 2023 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 2
12 Dec 2023 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 2 Optional Memorials: Our Lady of Guadalupe, patron of the Americas; Hymn to Our Lady of Guadalupe https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LO1xFFVnISA St Finnian, settled in Clonard, Co Meath c 520, taught Canice, Colum Cille and Brendan, died in 549. Known as the Tutor of…
12 Dec 2023 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 2
12 Dec 2023 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 2 Memorial: St Lucy, martyred in 304 in Sicily 1st Reading: Isaiah 40:25-31 Encouragement for the weary people, from God, who strengthens the powerless To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? says the Holy One. Lift up…
11 Dec 2023 – Monday of Advent, Week 2
11 Dec 2023 – Monday of Advent, Week 2 Optional Memorial: St Damascus 1, c 304-384, pope who commissioned St Jerome to prepare the Vulgate version of the Bible. 1st Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10 They shall see the glory of the Lord, and the ransomed exiles shall return to Zion The…
Presider’s Page for 10 December (Second Sunday of Advent)
Presider’s Page for 10 December (Second Sunday of Advent) John the Baptist is the focus of the liturgy on the Second Sunday of Advent each year. His challenge to us to ‘prepare a way for the Lord’ is at the heart of the Advent message. We worship the one who…
10 Dec 2023 – 2nd Sunday in Advent, B
10 Dec 2023 – 2nd Sunday in Advent, B John the Baptist prepared the way for Christ by raising expectations. Once Jesus had arrived, there only remained for John to quietly disappear from the scene. 1st Reading: Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11 God is coming to save his people and to open…
09 Dec 2023 – Saturday of Advent, Week 1
09 Dec 2023 – Saturday of Advent, Week 1 Optional Memorial: St Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, 1474-1548, saw the vision of our Lady of Guadalupe in December 1531. 1st Reading: Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26 Future days of blessed enlightenment, when the people turn aside from idolatry. Truly, O people in Zion, inhabitants…
08 Dec 2023 – The Immaculate Conception
08 Dec 2023 – The Immaculate Conception 1st Reading: Genesis 3:9-15, 20 Enmity between the serpent and the woman But the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?”He said, “I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I…
07 Dec 2023 – Thursday of Advent, Week 1
07 Dec 2023 – Thursday of Advent, Week 1 Memorial: St Ambrose, 339-97, patron of Milan, beekeepers and domestic animals. 1st Reading: Isaiah 26:1-6 A hymn of confidence in the Lord God, our everlasting rock On that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have…
06 Dec 2023 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 1
06 Dec 2023 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 1 Optional Memorial: St Nicholas, Bishop of Myra (Turkey), patron of Russia, sailors, pawnbrokers and children. 1st Reading: Isaiah 25:6-10 “God will wipe away the tears from all faces.” — a Messianic vision of the final age. On this mountain the Lord…
05 Dec 2023 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 1
05 Dec 2023 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 1 1st Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10 They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the Lord shall rest…
04 Dec 2023 – Monday of Advent, Week 1
04 Dec 2023 – Monday of Advent, Week 1 Optional Memorial: St John Damascene, 675-749, a Syrian theologian and priest in the monastery of St Sabas near Jerusalem. 1st Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5 In the Messiah’s day, they shall beat their swords into ploughshares The word that Isaiah son of Amoz…
03 Dec 2023 – 1st Sunday in Advent, B
03 Dec 2023 – 1st Sunday in Advent, B 1st Reading: Isaiah 63:16-17, 64:1-8 The prophet admits his people’s sinfulness but recalls God’s mercy too For you are our father, though Abraham does not know us and Israel does not acknowledge us; you, O Lord, are our father; our Redeemer…
02 Dec 2023 – Saturday of Week 34
02 Dec 2023 – Saturday of Week 34 1st Reading: Daniel 7:15-27 Daniel begs for an explanation of the vision. The persecuted saints will receive the kingdom As for me, Daniel, my spirit was troubled within me, and the visions of my head terrified me. I approached one of the…
01 Dec 2023 – Friday Week 34
01 Dec 2023 – Friday Week 34 First Reading Daniel 7: 2-14 In the vision I saw during the night, suddenly the four winds of heaven stirred up the great sea, from which emerged four immense beasts, each different from the others. The first was like a lion, but with…
30 Nov 2023 – St Andrew, Apostle
30 Nov 2023 – St Andrew, Apostle 1st Reading: Romans 10:9-18 How will they hear the faith, unless it be preached? If you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes…
29 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 34
29 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 34 1st Reading: Daniel 5:1-6 etc The writing appears on the wall and Daniel interprets its meaning King Belshazzar made a great festival for a thousand of his lords, and he was drinking wine in the presence of the thousand. Under the influence…
Presider’s Page for 3 December (First Sunday of Advent B)
Presider’s Page for 3 December (First Sunday of Advent B) Advent begins today; the season is at its shortest this year. During these first two weeks, the Church focuses on the end of time, when Christ will come in glory. Then, for the last week of Advent, we prepare to…
28 Nov 2023 – Tuesday of Week 34
28 Nov 2023 – Tuesday of Week 34 1st Reading: Daniel 2:31-45 In a vision, Daniel sees four kingdoms destroyed by a stone falling from the mountain, which proceeds to fill the whole earth Daniel said to Nebuchadnezzar, “You were looking, O king, and lo! there was a great statue….
27 Nov 2023 – Monday of Week 34
27 Nov 2023 – Monday of Week 34 Optional Memorial: St Fergal (Virgil), lived in France, then Bavaria, appointed bishop of Salzburg, c 754 and died in 784 – a reputation for learning and holiness. 1st Reading: Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20 Daniel and his companions are more respected than all magicians…
26 Nov 2023 – Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
26 Nov 2023 – Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe – 34th Sunday, (A) On this, the last Sunday in the liturgical year, we honour Christ the King. It is a feast on which to renew our loyalty to Jesus our Saviour, shown in the way that we…
25 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 33
25 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 33 Optional Memorial: St Catherine of Alexandria, martyred c 310. St Clement, third successor of St Peter as bishop of Rome (88-97), exiled and martyred, his relics…
24 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 33
24 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 33 Memorial: Ss Andrew Dūng-Lac, priest, and Companions – in 17th, 18th and 19th centuries many were martyred in Vietnam – 117 (96 native Vietnamese men and women, 11 Dominican missionaries from Spain and 10 French missionaries) were canonised in 1988 by Pope…
23 Nov 2023 – Thursday of Week 33
23 Nov 2023 – Thursday of Week 33 Memorial: St Columban, aka Columbanus, c. 543-615, monk in Bangor, went to Burgundy with 12 companions in 591, established monasteries at Annagray, Luxeil and Fontaine, also Bregenz in Austria and Bobbio, near Genoa, where he died. One of the greatest of Irish…
22 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 33
22 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 33 Optional Memorial: St Cecilia, patron of music…s/he who sings, prays twice! St Medb: The late twelfth-century Martyrology of Gorman notes: Medb of Ard-achad whilst at November 22 the early seventeenth-century Martyrology of Donegal lists: Medhbh of…
Presider’s Page for 26 November (Christ the King)
Presider’s Page for 26 November (Christ the King) Today we celebrate the feast of Christ the King. At the end of time, this king will come in glory to judge the living and the dead. He will ask how we treated the hungry and thirsty, the stranger, the naked, those…
21 November 2023 – Presentation of Our Lady
21 November 2023 – Presentation of Our Lady 1st Reading: Zechariah 2:14-17 Rejoice, O daughter Zion! For I will dwell in your midst Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion! For lo, I will come and dwell in your midst, says the Lord. Many nations shall join themselves to the Lord…
20 Nov 2023 – Monday of Week 33
20 Nov 2023 – Monday of Week 33 1st Reading: 1 Maccabees (1:10-15 etc The Jews suffering under persecution by Antiochus Epiphanes There arose from them a sinful root, Antiochus Epiphanes, son of King Antiochus; he had been a hostage in Rome. He began to reign in the one hundred…
19 Nov 2023 – 33rd Sunday, (A)
19 Nov 2023 – 33rd Sunday, (A) Today’s gospel focuses on the kind of behaviour that will be tested in Final Judgment. We are here and now writing the book of evidence for that judgement on the value of lives. A key element is the use of the talents and…
18 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 32
18 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 32 Optional Memorial: The Dedication of the Basilica of Ss Peter and Paul (Readings Lect 11:1269 – Acts 28:11-16, 30, 31. Ps 97:1-6, R/v.2. Mt 14:22-33 1st Reading: Wisdom 18:14-16; 19:6-9 In the peaceful stillness of the night God’s Word came down While…
17 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 32
17 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 32 Memorial: St Elizabeth of Hungary, 1207-31, Franciscan tertiary, exiled queen, a woman of prayer and service to the poor. 1st Reading: Wisdom 13:1-9 The beauty of created things can lead us to their Maker For all people who were ignorant of God…
16 Nov 2023 – Thursday of Week 32
16 Nov 2023 – Thursday of Week 32 Optional Memorials: St Margaret of Scotland, 1045-90, wife of Malcolm 111, King of Scotland, church reformer. …
15 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 32
15 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 32 Optional Memorial: St Albert the Great, c. 1206-80, Dominican theologian who taught in Cologne, called ‘The Universal Doctor’. Patron of scientists. 1st Reading: Wisdom 6:1-11 God, as Creator of everything, provides for all alike Listen, O kings, and understand; learn, O judges…
Presider’s Page for 19 November (Ordinary Time 33)
Presider’s Page for 19 November (Ordinary Time 33) The beginning of the Advent season is coming closer, and the Liturgy invites us to look further into the future, towards the end of time, to be ready when the Day of the Lord comes. • Today has been designated by Pope Francis…
14 Nov 2-23 – Tuesday of Week 32
14 Nov 2-23 – Tuesday of Week 32 Optional Memorial: St Laurence O’Toole, 1128-80, Patron of Dublin archdiocese. Glendalough monk, Archbishop of Dublin, reformer, held many synods, died on a mission of mediation with King Henry 11 and the Irish rulers of Eu, Normandy 1st Reading: Wisdom 2:23-3:9 The dead…
13 Nov 2023 – Monday of Week 32
13 Nov 2023 – Monday of Week 32 1st Reading: Wisdom 1:1-7 Think of the Lord constantly, and seek his guidance truly Love righteousness, you rulers of the earth, think of the Lord in goodness and seek him with sincerity of heart; because he is found by those who do…
12 Nov 2023 – 32nd Sunday, (A)
12 Nov 2023 – 32nd Sunday, (A) Underlying optimism: Everyone suffers sometime from bereavement, and some losses are especially difficult to bear. But if we hope in the resurrection we should not grieve like others who have no hope. The underlying optimism shining through today’s text from the book of…
11 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 31
11 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 31 Memorial: St Martin of Tours, 316-97, Bishop of Tours. Patron of France, soldiers, beggars and innkeepers. 1st Reading: Romans 16:3-9, 22-27 Greeting Paul’s co-workers, and praise of God’s unfolding plan Greet Prisca and Aquila, who work with me in Christ Jesus, and…
10 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 31
10 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 31 Memorial: St Leo the Great, died 461, taught the two natures of Christ, human and divine, at the Council of Chalcedon, 451, and teh primacy of the See of Peter. 1st Reading: Romans 15:14-21 Paul marvels at what God has done through…
Presider’s Page for 12 November 2023 (Ordinary Time 32)
Presider’s Page for 12 November (Ordinary Time 32) At this time of year, our deceased relatives and friends are often in our minds. Our faith tells us that we needn’t grieve over them like people with no hope. We remember them with love, and entrust them to God’s care. Penitential…
09 November 2023 – Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
09 November 2023 – Dedication of the Lateran Basilica 1st Reading: Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-10, 12 Ezekiel sees life-giving river flows out from the Jerusalem temple, to bring new life to the desert Then he brought me back to the entrance of the temple; there, water was flowing from below the…
08 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 31
08 Nov 2023 – Wednesday of Week 31 1st Reading: Romans 13:8-10 Paul’s summary of all God’s commandments,”love one another.” Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder;…
07 Nov 2023 – Tuesday of Week 31
07 Nov 2023 – Tuesday of Week 31 Optional Memorial: St Willibrord, 658-739, Northumbrian born, Benedictine, studied in Carlow, ordained Archbishop of Utrecht, founded a monastery in Luxembourg, where he died. 1st Reading: Romans 12:5-16 Though many, we are one body in Christ, with a variety of gifts We who…
06 November 2023 – All the Saints of Ireland
06 November 2023 – All the Saints of Ireland 1st Reading: Hebrews 11:2 12:1-4, 15, 13:1 Celebrate the faith of our ancestors It was by faith our ancestors received approval. Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and…
05 Nov 2023 – 31st Sunday, (A)
05 Nov 2023 – 31st Sunday, (A) Today’s Scripture calls us to examine our conscience about the sincerity of our words and of our lives. We should rid ourselves of all hypocrisy and respect the truth about ourselves, in God’s sight. Bishops and others in a leadership role, have special…
Presider’s Page for 5 November (31st Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 5 November (31st Sunday in Ordinary Time) God’s message is still a living power among us, so we gather to listen and be challenged by it Penitential Rite Confident of God’s care and mercy, let us call to mind our sins: (pause) You were sent to heal…
04 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 30
04 Nov 2023 – Saturday of Week 30 Optional Memorial; St Charles Borromeo, 1538-84, bishop of Milan, drafted the catechism of the Council of Trent. Patron of catechists and seminarians. 1st Reading: Romans 11:1-2, 11-12, 25-29 The paradoxical status of God’s people, when they reject Him I ask, then, has…
03 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 30
03 Nov 2023 – Friday of Week 30 Feast (Armagh, Down & Connor): St Malachy, 1094-1148, Bishop of Down, later Armagh, reformer, founded Cistercian monastery at Mellifont (1142). Died at Clairvaux in the arms of St Bernard en route to meet the Pope. 1st Reading: Romans 9:1-5 Paul would endure…
02 November 2023 – All The Faithful Departed
02 November 2023 – All The Faithful Departed (Any Readings from the Masses for the Dead, Lectionary, vol. 4) 1st Reading: Isaiah 25:6-9 A vision of hope for the future, when God will restore his people to happiness On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples…
01 November 2023 – Feast of All Saints
01 November 2023 – Feast of All Saints 1st Reading: Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14 Vast numbers were sealed with the sign of the Living God I saw another angel ascending from the rising of the sun, having the seal of the living God, and he called with a loud voice to…
31 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 30
31 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 30 Optional Memorial: Bl Dominic Collins, martyr, born c 1566 in Youghal, Cork. Hanged by the English after he refused to renounce his faith in Youghal 31 Oct 1602. 1st Reading: Romans 8:18-25 Eternal life is already begun within us, like a seed…
30 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 30
30 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 30 1st Reading: Romans 8:12-17 In the Spirit, we are God’s children; he is our “Aba–Father” So then, my brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh–for if you live according to the flesh, you…
29 Oct 2023 – 30th Sunday, (A)
29 Oct 2023 – 30th Sunday, (A) Our Gospel celebrates the great commandment of love. To love our neighbour as God does, prejudices based on race, religion or colour have to go. The revelation at Mount Sinai prompted a sense of fairness towards others, deeper than specific commandments. Jesus demonstrates…
Presider’s Page for 29 October (30th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 29 October (30th Sunday in Ordinary Time) There’s a reminder of the two great commandments in today’s celebration: we are called to love God and our neighbour: friend, visitor and stranger alike. Penitential Rite Let us call to mind times we have failed to show love, remembering that…
28 Oct 2023 – Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles
28 Oct 2023 – Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles 1st Reading: Ephesians 2:19-22 God has appointed apostles so that his people’s needs will be served So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built…
27 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 29
27 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 29 Feast – Waterford: St Otteran, identified as Odhran who preceded Columba to Iona. Patron Waterford City and diocese. 1st Reading: Romans 7:18-25 Who can resolve my inner conflict? Only God, through Jesus Christ For I know that nothing good dwells within me,…
26 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 29
26 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 29 1st Reading: Romans 6:19-23 Freed from sin and now serving God, and destined for eternal life If I may speak in human terms because of your natural limitations, just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to greater…
25 Oct 2023 – Wednesday of Week 29
25 Oct 2023 – Wednesday of Week 29 Cloyne, Cork & Ross Memorial: Bl Thaddeus MacCarthy, bishop, born in 1455, died in 1492 at Ivrea in Italy. 1st Reading: Romans 6:12-18 Serve God and you will come from death to life Do not let sin exercise dominion in your mortal…
24 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 29
24 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 29 Optional Memorial: St Anthony Mary Claret, bishop, 1807-70, founded the Claretians in Spain. 1st Reading: Romans 5:12, 17-21 Through Adam, sin and death came to us all; through Jesus Christ, grace far surpasses all sin Just as sin came into the world…
23 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 29
23 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 29 Optional Memorial: St John of Capistrano, priest, 1386-1456, Franciscan, patron of jurists and military chaplains. 1st Reading: Romans 4:20-25 Like Abraham’s faith, our faith will be credited to us by God No distrust made Abraham waver concerning the promise of God, but…
22 Oct 2023 – 29th Sunday, (A)
22 Oct 2023 – 29th Sunday, (A) Today’s Christians are called to live in a very pluralist world, that presents us with huge challenges. Only the grace of God and the depth of our convictions will enable our faith to survive and to thrive in a secular society. But then,…
21 Oct 2023 – Saturday of Week 28
21 Oct 2023 – Saturday of Week 28 1st Reading: Romans 4:13, 16-18 Hoping against hope, Abraham became the father of many nations The promise that he would inherit the world did not come to Abraham or to his descendants through the law but through the righteousness of faith. For…
Presider’s Page for Mission Sunday, 22 October (29th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for Mission Sunday, 22 October (29th Sunday in Ordinary Time) As God’s family in this place, we gather to worship. God is our king, we heed his Word and share the Bread of Life • Today is Mission Sunday. [A collection will be taken up to support missionaries.] Penitential…
20 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 28
20 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 28 1st Reading: Romans 4:1-8 For the believer, faith is credited as justice. This is how Abraham was justified What then are we to say was gained by Abraham, our ancestor according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he…
19 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 28
19 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 28 Optional Memorials: Ss John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, slain with six companions by the Huron and Iroquois Indians in 1646/9; St Paul of the Cross, 1694-1775 founder of the Passionists, tended the sick, dying and the lapsed. 1st Reading: Romans 3:21-30…
18 Oct 2023 – Saint Luke, Evangelist
18 Oct 2023 – Saint Luke, Evangelist 1st Reading: 2 Timothy 4:10-17 Only Luke is with Paul, at this final stage in his imprisonment Do your best to come to me soon, for Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone…
17 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 28
17 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 28 Memorial: St Ignatius of Antioch, bishop, died in Rome c 107, preached Christian unity through the Eucharist and around the local bishop. 1st Reading: Romans 1:16-25 Refusal to worship the true God leads to immorality I am not ashamed of the gospel;…
16 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 28
16 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 28 Optional Memorials: St Hedwig, 1174-1243; St Margaret Mary Alacoque, 1647-1690, famous for devotion to the Sacred Heart; St Gall, companion of Columbanus, set up monastery of St Gallen, died around 630. 1st Reading: Romans 1:1-7 Jesus, descendant of David is recognised as…
15 Oct 2023 – 28th Sunday, (A)
15 Oct 2023 – 28th Sunday, (A) By baptism we have been called to salvation, and to take our place in the future kingdom of God. Somehow, we must get a wedding garment, so as to take our place at the wedding feast. Our eucharist recalls that invitation and prompts…
Presider’s Page for 15 October (28th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 15 October (28th Sunday in Ordinary Time) We gather as fellow-pilgrims at this Sunday’s Eucharist, all journeying to the great banquet of heaven. In our Communion today, we get a taste of what is to come. Penitential Rite The Lord feeds us in this Sacrament: let us call…
14 Oct 2023 – Saturday of Week 27
14 Oct 2023 – Saturday of Week 27 Optional Memorial: St Callistus 1, became Pope in 217, opposed by Hippolytus, died at teh hands of a mob in 222. 1st Reading: Joel 4:12-21 A time of peace and prosperity will come to God’s holy mountain The Lord says: “Let the…
13 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 27
13 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 27 1st Reading: Joel 1:13-15; 2:1-2 A call to fasting and prayer, for the day of the Lord is near Priests, put on sackcloth and lament; wail, you ministers of the altar. Come, pass the night in sackcloth, you ministers of my God!…
12 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 27
12 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 27 1st Reading: Malachi 3:13-18 Religion seems to brings no benefit. Yet on the day of the Lord all will be revealed You have spoken harsh words against me, says the Lord. Yet you say, “How have we spoken against you?” You have…
11 Oct 2023 – Wednesday of Week 27
11 Oct 2023 – Wednesday of Week 27 Optional Memorials: St John XX111, 1881-1963, elected Pope 28 Oct 1958. Called the Second Vatican Council. St Canice, born in Derry c527, died in 603. Friend of Columba, set up churches, most notably Aghaboe, Ossory, replaced centuries later by his church in Kilkenny….
10 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 27
10 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 27 1st Reading: Jonah 3:1-10 At Jonah’s preaching, the Ninevites and their king repent and so their city is spared The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time, saying, “Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to…
09 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 27
09 Oct 2023 – Monday of Week 27 Optional Memorials: St John Henry Newman, canonised 13 Oct 2019, received into the Catholic Church on 9 Oct 1845, associated with the Catholic University of Ireland where he was Rector 1854-58. St Denis and Companions Rusticus and Eleutherius martyred in 258 in…
08 Oct 2023 – 27th Sunday, (A)
08 Oct 2023 – 27th Sunday, (A) The church is the choice vineyard of the Lord, planted for a noble and productive purpose. Here we can grow to maturity in the sunshine of God’s grace. But the vineyard can fall into disuse, or fail to produce the expected fruits of…
Presider’s Page for 8 October (27th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 8 October (27th Sunday in Ordinary Time) There are reassuring sentiments for us in God’s Word, with Paul reminding us that there is no need for us to worry. If there is anything we need, we can pray for it and God’s peace will be ours. Penitential…
07 Oct 2023 – Our Lady of the Rosary
07 Oct 2023 – Our Lady of the Rosary This feast commemorates the Christian naval victory over the Turks (at Lepanto 1571). Our Lady is daily honoured in the Rosary, which invites us to meditate the mysteries of the life, death and resurrection of Christ her son. 1st Reading: Acts…
06 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 26
06 Oct 2023 – Friday of Week 26 Optional Memorial: St Bruno, 1032-1101, founded the Carthusians at La Grande Chartreuse. 1st Reading: Baruch 1:15-22 From our time in Egypt until now, we have disregarded the voice of the Lord The Lord our God is in the right, but there is…
05 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 26
05 Oct 2023 – Thursday of Week 26 Optional Memorial: St Faustina, Polish, 1903-38, Sister of Our Lady of Mercy. Inspired the worldwide Divine Mercy movement. 1st Reading: Nehemiah 8:1-4a, 5-6, 7-12 Ezra gets his people to renew their loyalty to God and to share their gifts In the seventh…
04 Oct 2023 – Wednesday of Week 26
04 Oct 2023 – Wednesday of Week 26 SYNOD LAUNCHES IN ROME TODAY… Memorial: St Francis 1181-1226, founded the Friars Minor, and with St Clare, The Poor Clares. Patron of ecologists. 1st Reading: Nehemiah 2:1-8 King Artaxerxes sends Nehemiah to Jerusalem, to restore its walls and graves In the month…
03 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 26
03 Oct 2023 – Tuesday of Week 26 Optional Memorial: Bl Columba Marmion, born in Dublin 1858, ordained in Rome 1881, CC Dundrum, Prof in Holy Cross College, Clonliffe, entered Abbey of Maredsous, Belgium 1886, Abbatial blessing 3 Oct 1909, died 30 Jan 1923. Beatified 3 Sept 2000. Wrote Christ, the…
02 Oct 2023 – The Holy Guardian Angels
02 Oct 2023 – The Holy Guardian Angels 1st Reading: Exodus 23:20-23 I am going to send an angel in front of you, to guard you on the way The Lord spoke to Moses and the people during their journey across the desert desert: ‘I am going to send an…
01 Oct 2023 – 26th Sunday, (A)
01 Oct 2023 – 26th Sunday, (A) Jesus warns that prostitutes and tax-collectors may be closer to God than their supposed betters. Social or religious standing means little in the sight of God. The parable of the two sons, neither of whom does what he says he will do, highlights…
30 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 25
30 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 25 Memorial: St Jerome, priest and doctor of the Church, 340-420, translated the Bible into Latin, (the Vulgate) and wrote commentaries of Sacred Scripture. Patron of librarians. 1st Reading: Zechariah 2:1-4, 10-11 Jerusalem will be a centre of peace where many will come…
29 September 2023 – The holy Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael
29 September 2023 – The holy Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael 1st Reading: Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 The vision of the Ancient One and the Son of Man, in glorious splendour As I watched, thrones were set in place, and an Ancient One took his throne, his clothing was white as…
28 Sept 2023 – Thursday of Week 25
28 Sept 2023 – Thursday of Week 25 Optional Memorials; Ss Lawrence Ruiz and Companions, martyred in Nagasaki, Japan 1633-7. Also St Wenceslaus, 907-29, prince of Bohemia, killed by his brother. Patron of brewers. 1st Reading: Haggai 1:1-8 Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the temple…
27 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 25
27 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 25 Memorial: St Vincent de Paul, 1581-1660, priest and founder of the Vincentians and the Daughters of Charity (1633). Patron of all charitable works. 1st Reading: Ezra 9:5-9 At the time of the evening sacrifice, Ezra declares God’s mercy At the evening sacrifice…
26 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 25
26 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 25 Optional Memorial: Ss Cosmos and Damian, early Syrian martyrs, patrons of physicians. 1st Reading: Ezra 6:7-8, 12, 14-20 How the Jews rebuilt and rededicated their temple King Darius decreed: “Do not impede the work on this house of God; let the governor…
Presider’s Page for 1 October (26th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 1 October (26th Sunday in Ordinary Time) God’s love is displayed for us in the life and death of Jesus. We rejoice in this love, and celebrate the victory over sin and death won for us. As a community, we praise God’s holy name. Penitential Rite Sometimes…
25 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 25
25 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 25 Optional Memorial: St Finbarr, bishop, lived in Gougane Barra as a hermit, later moved to Cork. 1st Reading: Ezra 1:1-6 Cyrus lets the Jews return home and makes their neighbours help them rebuild the temple In the first year of King Cyrus…
24 Sept 2023 – 25th Sunday, (A)
24 Sept 2023 – 25th Sunday, (A) This Sunday is the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Link to resources: https://migrants-refugees.va/resource-center/world-day-of-migrants-refugees-2023/ “Seek the Lord while he may be found.” But on the other hand, God’s mercy is beyond measure, so that even those who come late to his vineyard will…
23 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 24
23 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 24 Memorial: St Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio), d 23 Sept 1968, Capuchin friar, stigmatist, confessor, friend of all who suffer. 1st Reading: 1 Timothy 6:13-16 Live without reproach until Jesus Christ returns in glory In the presence of God, who gives life…
22 Sept 2023 – Friday of Week 24
22 Sept 2023 – Friday of Week 24 1st Reading: 1 Timothy 6:2-12 The value of good order, detachment from wealth and living one’s faith These are the duties you must teach and urge the community to follow. Whoever teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of…
21 September 2023 – Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist
21 September 2023 – Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist 1st Reading: Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13 The Church is one body, under the leadership of the apostles I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all…
20 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 24
20 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 24 Memorial: Ss Andrew Kim Tae-gôn, priests, Paul ChôngHa-sang and Companions, martyrs – the first Korean priest and a catechist, and 101 others were martyred 1839-67. 1st Reading: 1 Timothy 3:14-16 The church is entrusted with the mystery of salvation, meant for the…
19 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 24
19 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 24 Optional Memorial: St Januarius, bishop and martyr. 1st Reading: 1 Timothy 3:1-13 Qualities needed in church officials–hospitable, respected, truthful, skilled managers The saying is sure: whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. Now a bishop must be above…
Presiders Page for 24 September (25th Sunday in Ordinary Time).
Presiders Page for 24 September (25th Sunday in Ordinary Time). God’s ways are not our ways. God’s love and generosity are beyond our understanding. We acknowledge all God has done for us, and ask for the grace to grow into God’s likeness. Penitential Rite To prepare ourselves to celebrate the…
18 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 24
18 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 24 1st Reading: 1 Timothy 2:1-8 Prayers for the civil authorities, for peaceful governance First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may…
17 Sept 2023 – 24th Sunday, (A)
17 Sept 2023 – 24th Sunday, (A) It is inconsistent to celebrate our God as the Lord of compassion and love, unless we show mercy to those who have wronged us. Today’s Gospel calls us to forgive as Christ forgives us. Some of the finer minds among the Old Testament…
Presider’s Page for 17 September (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 17 September (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time) Forgiveness is one of the great qualities of Christianity. We are challenged to forgive each other as readily as God forgives us. We celebrate God’s mercy, and ask for the grace to pass it on to those who hurt us….
16 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 23
16 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 23 Memorial: St Cornelius, pope (in 251) – patron of cattle and domestic animals. Also St Cyprian, 210-58, bishop of Carthage – martyred. 1st Reading: 1 Timothy 1:15-17 Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. All are called The saying is…
15 September 2023 – Our Lady of Sorrows
15 September 2023 – Our Lady of Sorrows 1st Reading: Hebrews 5:7-9 Even Jesus learned obedience through what he suffered In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he…
14 September 2023 – The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
14 September 2023 – The Exaltation of the Holy Cross 1st Reading: Numbers 21:5-9 When the serpents bit the people, the statue of a bronze serpent brought them healing The people spoke against God and against Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the…
13 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 23
13 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 23 Memorial: St John Chrysostom 347-407, Greek, the ‘Golden Mouthed Preacher’, was AB of Constantinople. Die din exile. Patron saint of preachers. 1st Reading: Colossians 3:1-11 You have been raised with Christ, so set your heart where Christ is If you have been…
12 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 23
12 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 23 Optional Memorials: The Most Holy Name of Mary – use Gal 4:4-7 or Eph 1:3-6; Ps Lk 1:46-55; Lk 1: 39-47 – Lect 11:1438, 1432, 1444. St Ailbe, died in 528, founded monastery at Emly. A 9th century Rule bears his name. 1st…
11 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 23
11 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 23 1st Reading: Colossians 1:24-2:3 To spread the faith, Paul suffers on behalf of the Church I am now rejoicing in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am completing what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of…
10 Sept 2023 – 23rd Sunday, (A)
10 Sept 2023 – 23rd Sunday, (A) We have a moral obligation to correct blatant wrongdoing, whether in the family, the workplace or society. But it is incumbent on those who have others in their care to offer correction with love and respect. The old dictum, “hate the sin but…
Presider’s Page for 10 September (23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 10 September (23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time) We gather as God’s family, concerned for each other, supporting one another in sadness and joy. The challenge of living as part of the Christian family is laid out for us in today’s readings. Penitential Rite At times we fail…
09 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 22
09 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 22 Memorial: St Ciarán, abbot, born c 512 in Roscommon, founded Clonmacnoise monastery, died aged 33 during its construction. 1st Reading: Colossians 1:21-23 Hold the faith firmly, to come before God free of all blame You who were once estranged and hostile in…
08 Sept 2023 – The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
08 Sept 2023 – The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Micah 5:1-4 Now you are walled around with a wall; siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the ruler of Israel upon the cheek. But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little…
07 Sept 2023 – Thursday of Week 22
07 Sept 2023 – Thursday of Week 22 1st Reading: Colossians 1:9-14 We can endure whatever comes, being rescued from the power of darkness For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge…
06 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 22
06 Sept 2023 – Wednesday of Week 22 1st Reading: Colossians 1:1-8 Paul commends “love to the saints” and Christian growth Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brothers and sisters in Christ in Colossae: Grace to…
05 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 22
05 Sept 2023 – Tuesday of Week 22 1st Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6, 9-11 The day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night. Be ready Concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves…
4 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 22
4 Sept 2023 – Monday of Week 22 Optional Memorial: St Mac Nissi, 5th-6th century, baptised by St Patrick, set up a hermitage in Connor (Down & Connor). 1st Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 We will be reunited with our deceased when Christ returns We do not want you to be…
3 Sept 2023 – 22nd Sunday, (A)
3 Sept 2023 – 22nd Sunday, (A) Paul’s call to “present yourselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God,” is meant to realise our full potential. Jeremiah and Jesus cling to God’s will before all else. This is a hopeful message to all whose life is a struggle,…
2 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 21
2 Sept 2023 – Saturday of Week 21 1st Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:9-11 To live lovingly and responsibly Now concerning love of the brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anyone write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another; and indeed…
1 Sept 23 – Friday of Week 21
1 Sept 23 – Friday of Week 21 World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation Pope Francis has established 1 September as the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, encouraging the Catholic community around the world to pray for our common home. The day is inspired by Pope…
31 Aug 2023 – Thursday of Week 21
31 Aug 2023 – Thursday of Week 21 Optional Memorial: St Aidan of Lindisfarne, monk of Irish descent in Iona. Headed to Lindisfarne at the invitation of the King of Northumbria and died there in 651. 1st Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13 Paul recalls the faith of the Thessalonians and prays…
30 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 21
30 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 21 Optional memorial: St Fiacre, Irish monk, travelled to Normandy and met Faro, patron of Irish pilgrims at Meaux. Fiacre was given a hermitage near Breuil and stayed until his death c 651. 1st Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 The gospel is no mere…
29 Aug 23 – The Passion of Saint John the Baptist
29 Aug 23 – The Passion of Saint John the Baptist 1st Reading: Jeremiah 1:17-19 Like Jeremiah, we must speak out against domineering rulers But as for you, gird up your loins; stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not break down before them, or I…
28 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 21
28 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 21 Memorial: St Augustine, 354-430, Bishop of Hippo and a serious theologian! Big on grace and left a a huge theological influence on the Church. Patron of theologians. 1st Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 8-10 Paul recalls the dramatic conversion of the people of…
27 Aug 2023 – 21st Sunday, (A)
27 Aug 2023 – 21st Sunday, (A) (1) Isaiah 22:19-23 Isaiah warns Shebna that the key, the symbol of his authority, will be taken from him Thus says the Lord to Shebna, the master of the palace: “I will thrust you from your office, and you will be pulled down…
26 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 20
26 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 20 1st Reading: Ruth 2:1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17 How Ruth the foreigner came to become king David’s great grandmother Naomi had a kinsman on her husband’s side, a prominent rich man, of the family of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz. And Ruth the Moabite…
25 Aug 2023 – Friday of Week 20
25 Aug 2023 – Friday of Week 20 Optional Memorials: St Louis of France, 1214-70, King of France, father of 11 children, Franciscan tertiary, died in Tunisia on his second Crusade. Patron French monarchy and military, and barbers. St Joseph Calasanz, 1556-1648, founded the Piarists to run free schools. Patron of…
24 Aug 23 – Saint Bartholomew, Apostle
24 Aug 23 – Saint Bartholomew, Apostle 1st Reading: Revelation 21:9-14 The City of God has 12 gates, representing the 12 apostles Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the…
Presider’s Page for 27 August (21st Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 27 August (21st Sunday in Ordinary Time) This hour of worship brings us into the presence of the God whose mystery we can never comprehend. All we have comes from the Lord, and we can only bow down in awe, and bring forward the praise that is…
23 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 20
23 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 20 Optional Memorials: St Rose of Lima, 1586-1617, Dominican tertiary, seen as originator of social services in Peru. …
22 Aug 2023 – The Queenship of Mary
22 Aug 2023 – The Queenship of Mary 1st Reading: Isaiah 9:1-6 God’s promise of joy and restoration to those who sat in darkness There will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land…
21 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 20
21 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 20 Memorial: St Pius X, 1835-1914, Cardinal Patriarch of Venice before he became Pope in 1903. 1st Reading: Judges 2:11-19 The era of the Judges alternates between falling away and being restored Then Israelites did what was evil in the sight of the…
20 Aug 2023 – 20th Sunday, (A)
20 Aug 2023 – 20th Sunday, (A) (1) : Isaiah 56:1. 6-7 The Lord will bring foreigners to worship in Jerusalem Thus says the Lord: Have a care for justice, act with integrity, for soon my salvation will come and my integrity be manifest. Foreigners who have attached themselves to…
19 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 19
19 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 19 Optional Memorial: St John Eudes, 1601-1680, from Normandy, France, founded a congregation and Sisters of Our Lady of Charity and Refuge, promoted the Sacred Heart. 1st Reading: Joshua 24:14-29 At the covenant ceremony at Shechem, the whole people promise loyalty to God…
Presider’s Page for 20 August (20th Sunday in OrdinaryTime)
Presider’s Page for 20 August (20th Sunday in OrdinaryTime) Everyone is welcome in God’s house, everyone who loves God’s name. We gather to experience the warmth of this embrace. Penitential Rite To prepare ourselves, let us call to mind our sins, remembering God’s compassion for sinners: (pause) Lord Jesus, you…
18 Aug 2023 – Friday Week 19 (1)
18 Aug 2023 – Friday Week 19 (1) 1st Reading: Joshua 24:1-13 Joshua narrates God’s help to Israel, from the patriarchs to entering the Promised Land Then Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem, and summoned the elders, the heads, the judges, and the officers of Israel; and…
17 Aug 2023 – Thursday of Week 19 Memorial: Our Lady of Knock – Readings, Lect 11: 1421-1449 ‘I saw everything distinctly. The figures were full and round as if they had a body and were alive. They said nothing, but as we approached, they seemed to go back a little…
16 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 19
16 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 19 Optional Memorial: St Stephen of Hungary, 975-1038, first King of Hungary and teh country’s patron saint. 1st Reading: Deuteronomy 34:1-12 The great Moses dies within sight of the Promised Land Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to…
15 August 2023 – The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
15 August 2023 – The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1st Reading: Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10 The woman and the dragon depicted the persecuted church; but came to include the Assumption of our Lady Then God’s temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen…
14 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 19
14 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 19 1st Reading: Deuteronomy 10:12-22 God’s chosen people must show mercy to foreigners, the orphan and the widow And Moses said to th people, “So now, O Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? Only to fear the Lord your…
13 Aug 2023 – 19th Sunday, (A)
13 Aug 2023 – 19th Sunday, (A) (1) 1 Kings 19:9, 11-13 God’s voice was like the gentle whisper of a breeze At that place Elijah came to a cave, and spent the night there. Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, “What are you doing here,…
Presider’s Page for 13 August (Ordinary Time 19th Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 13 August (Ordinary Time 19th Sunday) We gather to celebrate our beautiful God, who was revealed to Elijah as a gentle breeze and who was not daunted by the storm on the lake. We are grateful that this God takes our fears away and gives rest to…
12 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 18
12 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 18 (Feast in Achonry): St Attracta – 6th or 7th century, great healer who had convents noted for hospitality and charity for the poor. …
11 Aug 2023 – Friday of Week 18
11 Aug 2023 – Friday of Week 18 Memorial: St Clare, 1193-1253, follower of St Francis, founder of the Poor Clares. Patron of television. 1st Reading: Deuteronomy 4:32-40 Moses calls the people to appreciate God’s works and keep God’s commands Moses said to the people: “Ask now about former ages,…
10 Aug 2023 – St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr
10 Aug 2023 – St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr Readings: 2 Cor 9:6-10; Ps 111:1-2, 5-9, R/ v5. John 12: 24-26 First Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6-10 The one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give…
9 Aug 2023 – Saint Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein)
9 Aug 2023 – Saint Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein) 1st Reading: Hosea 2:16-17; 21-22 God’s love for his people, Israel, is like a husband’s love for a wife On that day, says the Lord, you will call me, “My husband,” and no longer will you call me, “My Baal.” For…
8 Aug 2023 – Tuesday of Week 18
8 Aug 2023 – Tuesday of Week 18 Memorial: St Dominic, 1170-1221, a Spaniard who founded the Dominicans the Order of Preachers – OPs) 1st Reading: Numbers 12:1-13 Despite the envy of Aaron and Miriam God appoints Moses as supreme leader of his people Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses…
7 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 18
7 Aug 2023 – Monday of Week 18 Optional Memorials: Ss Sixtus 11, pope, and Companions, martyrs – died in 258. St Cajetan, 1480-1547, founded the Theatines to renew sacramental life in the Church. 1st Reading: Numbers 11:4-15 A rebellion during the Exodus from Egypt…
6th August 2023 – The Transfiguration of the Lord
6th August 2023 – The Transfiguration of the Lord Theme: Three apostles were privileged to witness the inner life of Christ, revealed to them in splendour oh4>the holy mountain. We pray for a deeper experience of God in our own lives, and to share in his divine life 1st…
5 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 17
5 Aug 2023 – Saturday of Week 17 Optional Memorial: Dedication of the Basilica of St Mary Major, built by Pope Sixtus 111 after the Council of Ephesus (431), the first church in the West named in honour of the Mother of God. Alternative readings: Apoc 21: 1-5. Ps Jdt…
Presider’s Page for 6 August (Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord)
Presider’s Page for 6 August (Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord) August 3 2023 This feast had its origin in the East in the fourth century as the commemoration of the dedication of the church of the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. It was observed in the West from the eighth…
4 Aug 2023 – Friday of Week 17
4 Aug 2023 – Friday of Week 17 Memorial: St John Mary Vianney 1786-1859, the Curé d’Ars. Patron of priests. 1st Reading: Leviticus 23:1, 4-11 etc Sacred festivals of Pasch, Pentecost, Atonement and Tabernacles The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: These are the appointed festivals of the Lord, the holy…
3 Aug 2023 – Thursday of Week 17
3 Aug 2023 – Thursday of Week 17 1st Reading: Exodus 40:16-21, 34-38 The tabernacle and its contents are consecrated and God’s glory settles there Moses did everything just as the Lord had commanded him. In the first month in the second year, on the first day of the month,…
2 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 17
2 Aug 2023 – Wednesday of Week 17 World Youth Day – 1-6 August, Lisbon, Portugal. Optional Memorials: St Eusebius of Vercelli, preacher against Arianism. St Peter Julian Eymard 1811-68, established the Blessed Sacrament Fathers and (with help from Marguerite Guillot) the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament, 1st Reading: Exodus…
1 Aug 2023 – Tuesday of Week 17
1 Aug 2023 – Tuesday of Week 17 Memorial: St Alphonsus Liguoiri 1696-1787, founder of the Reds, popular preacher and influential writer of theology. 1st Reading: Exodus 33:7-11; etc Moses face to face with God, fasts 40 days and receives the Ten Commandments Now Moses used to take the tent…
31 July 2023 – Monday of Week 17
31 July 2023 – Monday of Week 17 Memorial: St Ignatius of Loyola 1491-1556, Spanish, founder of the Jesuits, wrote the Spiritual Exercises. 1st Reading: Exodus 32:15-24 etc Despite the scandal of the golden calf, Moses leads his people on toward the Promised Land Then Moses turned and went down…
30 July 2023 – 17th Sunday, (A)
30 July 2023 – 17th Sunday, (A) Pray for the gift of discernment, something that we all need as our guide in making decisions. All things have their own intrinsic value, but if we over-value any of our favourite “things”, we devalue God. Deep down, I need to loosen my…
Presider’s Page for 30 July (17th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 30 July (17th Sunday in Ordinary Time) Opening Comment God has given us many gifts, including the promise that we will share in Christ’s glory. We give thanks for these treasures, as we continue on our journey to the fullness of the kingdom of heaven. • Would…
Bidding Prayers for 30 July – 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Bidding Prayers for 30 July – 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 30 July Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers before our God of wisdom and love: That those who govern nations may be as wise as the great leader Solomon (pause and pray for…
29 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 16
29 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 16 Memorial: Ss Mary, Martha and Lazarus 1st Reading: 1 John 4:7-16 Anyone who really loves is born of God and knows God Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever…
28 July 2023 – Friday of Week 16
28 July 2023 – Friday of Week 16 1st Reading: Exodus 20:1-17 On Mount Sinai God gives the Commandments to Moses Then God spoke all these words: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall…
27 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 16
27 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 16 1st Reading: Exodus 19:1-2, 9-11, 16-20 On the third new moon after the Israelites had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that very day, they came into the wilderness of Sinai. They had journeyed from Rephidim, entered the wilderness of…
26 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 16
26 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 16 Memorial: Ss Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. 1st Reading: Exodus 16:1-5, 9-15 The whole congregation of the Israelites set out from Elim; and Israel came to the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the…
25 July 2023 – St James, Apostle
25 July 2023 – St James, Apostle 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 Although only a “clay jar” Paul is willing to die, that others may live But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does…
24 July 2023 – Monday of Week 16
24 July 2023 – Monday of Week 16 Optional Memorials: St Declan, pre-Patrician saint, of noble birth, ordained in Europe, maybe a bishop, settled in Ardmore, Waterford, evangelised the Déise gang! St Sharbel Makhlüf, Lebanese monk, ordained in 1859, a hermit from 1875, died in 1898, great devotion to the…
23 July 2023 – 16th Sunday, (A)
23 July 2023 – 16th Sunday, (A) World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly (1) Wisdom 12:13ff Because God is all-powerful he governs the world with patience, allowing time for repentance For who will say, “What have you done?” or who will resist your judgment? Who will accuse you for…
22 July 23 – St Mary Magdalene
22 July 23 – St Mary Magdalene 1st Reading (Option 1): Song of Songs (3: 1-4 I have found him whom my heart loves. The bride says this: On my bed, at night, I sought him whom my heart loves. I sought but did not find him. So I will…
Presider’s Page for 23 July (16th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 23 July (16th Sunday in Ordinary Time) We have been called together by the Spirit of God to celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. The Spirit teaches us to pray, and moves us to glorify the Lord’s name. • Today is World Day of Grandparents and the…
21 July 2023 – Friday of Week 15
21 July 2023 – Friday of Week 15 Optional Memorial: St Lawrence of Brindisi, 1559-1619, Counter-Reformation preacher. 1st Reading: Exodus 11:10-12:14 Passover is a reminder of our deliverance from slavery and death Moses and Aaron performed all these wonders before Pharaoh; but the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did…
20 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 15
20 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 15 Optional Memorial: St Apollinaris, second century martyr, bishop of Classis. 1st Reading: Exodus 3:13-20 The name Yahweh : I am who/what I am Moses said to God, “If I come to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your ancestors…
19 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 15
19 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 15 1st Reading: Exodus 3:1-6, 9-12 Revelation to Moses at the burning bush, at Mount Horeb/Sinai Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian; he led his flock beyond the desert, and came to Horeb, the mountain of…
18 July 2023 – Tuesday of Week 15
18 July 2023 – Tuesday of Week 15 1st Reading: Exodus 2:1-15 Moses flees from the Egyptian court to the desert after killing an Egyptian A man from the house of Levi went and married a Levite woman. The woman conceived and bore a son; and when she saw that…
17 July 2023 – Monday of Week 15
17 July 2023 – Monday of Week 15 1st Reading: Exodus 1:8-14, 22 A new Pharaoh enslaves the Israelites and threatens them with extinction Now a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph. He said to his people, “Look, the Israelite people are more numerous and more…
16 July 2023 – 15th Sunday, (A)
16 July 2023 – 15th Sunday, (A) (1) Isaiah 55:10-11 God’s word is like rain which fertilises the earth For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to…
Presider’s Page for 16 July (15th Sunday in Ordinary Time) July 15 2023 We gather as pilgrims on a journey, asking God to keep us steadfast until we reach our eternal home. In the Spirit, let us worship God who cares for us according to our needs. Penitential Rite Because…
15 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 14
15 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 14 Memorial: St Bonaventure, 1221-74, born in Tuscany, Minister General of the Frans, became Cardinal AB of Albano, theologian at the Council of Lyons. 1st Reading: Genesis 49:29-32; 50:15-26 Then Jacob gave his sons this charge, “I am about to be gathered to…
14 July 2023 – Friday of Week 14
14 July 2023 – Friday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Camillus de Lellis, 1550-1614, a gambling soldier, used to rough and rowdy ways, converted at 25, worked with the sick, founded hospitals. Patron of nurses, hospitals and the sick. 1st Reading: Genesis 46:1-7, 28-30 Jacob joyfully meets his long-lost…
13 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 14
13 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Henry, 973-1024, Duke of Bavaria and later emperor, a just, humble and prayerful reformer. 1st Reading: Genesis 44:18-21, 23-29; 45:1-5 After Judah’s report, Joseph reveals himself to his brothers Judah went up to [his brother Joseph] and said, “O…
12 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 14
12 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 14 1st Reading: Genesis 41-42 When Joseph’s brothers come to buy grain, he sends them back for for Benjamin When all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread. Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians, “Go to Joseph;…
Tues 11 July 23 – Saint Benedict of Nursia
July 11. Saint Benedict of Nursia 1st Reading: Proverbs (2:1-10 The value of wisdom, devotion and fear of the Lord, so exemplified in Saint Benedict My child, if you accept my words and treasure up my commandments within you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to…
10 July 2023 – Monday of Week 14
10 July 2023 – Monday of Week 14 1st Reading: Genesis 28:10-22 Jacob dreams of a ladder stretching between heaven and earth, with angels ascending and descending Jacob left Beer-sheva and went toward Haran. He came to a certain place and stayed there for the night, because the sun had…
9 July 2023 – 14th Sunday, (A)
9 July 2023 – 14th Sunday, (A) (1) Zechariah 9:9-10 Their king-Messiah will come humbly, riding on a donkey Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the…
8 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 13
8 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 13 Optional Memorial: St Killian, born in Mullagh, Kilmore (Ronan Drury country!), left here and became known as the Apostle of Thuringia (central Germany) and eastern Franconia (Bavaria). Martyred in 689 with Kolonat and Totnan. Strong devotion in Würzburg (and Bavaria) where his…
Presider’s Page for 9 July (14th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 9 July (14th Sunday in Ordinary Time) There is much good news in today’s Gospel. We’re told we can bring all our troubles to Jesus and find rest. God will make our burden light. We praise God for the care promised us. •Today is the National Day…
7 July 2023 – Friday of Week 13
7 July 2023 – Friday of Week 13 Optional Memorial: St Maelruain, bishop and abbot, founded the monastery at Tallaght, Dublin in 774. Introduced the Célí Dé reform, died in 792. 1st Reading: Genesis 23:1-4, 19; 24:1-8, 62-67 The burial of Sarah. Abraham finds a wife for Isaac Sarah lived…
6 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 13
6 July 2023 – Thursday of Week 13 Optional Memorials: St Maria Goretti, 1890-1902, stabbed to death in defence of her virtue; St Moninne of Killeavy, died c 517, founded a community in Sliabh Gullion, Armagh, living an eremitical life based on Elijah and St John the Baptist. 1st Reading:…
5 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 13
5 July 2023 – Wednesday of Week 13 Optional Memorial: St Anthony Zaccaria, 1502.-39, founded the Barnabites 1st Reading: Genesis 21:5, 8-20 Abraham drives out the slave-wife Hagar and her son Sarah noticed the son whom Hagar the Egyptian had borne to Abraham playing with her son Isaac; so she…
4 July 2023 – Tuesday of Week 13
4 July 2023 – Tuesday of Week 13 Optional Memorial: St Elizabeth of Portugal, 1271-1336. 1st Reading: Genesis 19:15-29 Before destroying Sodom and Gomorrah, God saved Lot and his family When morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Get up, take your wife and your two daughters away from here,…
Monday, July 3, 2023 – St Thomas, Apostle (Feast)
Monday, July 3, 2023 – St Thomas, Apostle (Feast) First reading Ephesians 2:19-22 In Christ you are no longer aliens, but citizens like us You are no longer aliens or foreign visitors: you are citizens like all the saints, and part of God’s household. You are part of a building…
2 July 2023 – 13th Sunday, (A)
2 July 2023 – 13th Sunday, (A) In the Eucharist we welcome Christ and are also welcomed by him, strengthened for our journey. With his grace, we try to extend the same welcome to others whose lives touch our own. (1) 2 Kings 4:8ff A woman welcomed Elisha, recognising him…
Presider’s Page for 2 July (13th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 2 July (13th Sunday in Ordinary Time) We’re told in today’s readings that hospitality is a gift that brings a great reward. As we gather to thank God for the many gifts we’ve received, we ask for the grace to be hospitable to the visitors who will…
1 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 12
1 July 2023 – Saturday of Week 12 Memorial: St Oliver Plunkett, ordained in Rome in 1654, AB of Armagh in 1669. Hanged, drawn and quartered in Tyburn, London on 1 July 1681, the last Catholic to die for the faith at Tyburn. Beatified in 1920, canonised by Pope Paul…
30 June 2023 – Friday of Week 12
30 June 2023 – Friday of Week 12 Optional Memorial: The First Martyrs of Rome, in addition to Ss Peter and Paul, died under Nero in 64. 1st Reading: Genesis 17:1, 9-10, 15-22 Abram’s name is changed. The promised child will be God’s special gift When Abram was ninety-nine years…
Thursday 29 June 2023 – Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
Thursday 29 June 2023 – Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles 1st Reading: Acts 2:1-11 Peter is imprisoned, but an angel sets him free to continue leading the church About that time King Herod laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church. He had James, the brother of John,…
28 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 12
28 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 12 Memorial: St Iranaeus lived just after teh Apostles, Bishop of Lyons in Gaul, bishop and martyr. 1st Reading: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 God’s promise of descendants to Abraham is renewed The word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not…
27 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 12
27 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 12 Optional Memorial: St Cyril of Alexandria, c 376-444, bishop and doctor of the church. Fought against Nestorianism at the Council of Ephesus, which proclaimed Mary teh Mother of God. 1st Reading: Genesis 13:2, 5-18 The herdsmen of Abram and Lot quarrel, and…
26 June 2023 – Monday of Week 12
26 June 2023 – Monday of Week 12 1st Reading: Genesis 12:1-9 God calls Abram to “go to the land that I will show you.” This brings a blessing on all mankind Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to…
25 June 2023 – 12th Sunday, (A)
25 June 2023 – 12th Sunday, (A) (1) Jeremiah 20:10-13 Jeremiah is under stress from enemies, yet holds to his confidence in God For I hear many whispering: “Terror is all around! Denounce him! Let us denounce him!” All my close friends are watching for me to stumble. “Perhaps he…
Presider’s Page for 25 June (12th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 25 June (12th Sunday in Ordinary Time) We have nothing to be afraid of, we’re told in today’s Gospel. God knows every one of our needs. We gather in prayer, united by our faith, to thank God for this word of encouragement. Penitential Rite To prepare ourselves…
24 June 2023 – Birth of Saint John the Baptist
24 June 2023 – Birth of Saint John the Baptist (Vigil Mass: Jer 1:4-10. Ps 70:1-6, 15, 17, R/ v 6; 1 Pet 1:8-12; Lk 1:5-15. Lect 1:973 or 11:1070) 1st Reading: Isaiah 49:1-6 The Lord called me before I was born; in my mother’s womb he…
23 June 2023 – Friday of Week 11
23 June 2023 – Friday of Week 11 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 11:18, 21-30 Paul boasts about his hardships in carrying out his ministry My brethren, since many others boast according to human standards, I will also boast. To my shame, I must say, we were too weak for that….
22 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 11
22 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 11 Optional Memorials: St Paulinus of Nola, 355-431, bishop. St John Fisher 1469-1535, and built Christs’ and St johns’ Colleges, Cambridge as Vice-Chancellor. Bishop of Rochester, martyred. Thomas More 1478-1535, the first commoner to be Lord Chancellor of England, martyred under Henry VIII….
21 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 11
21 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 11 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6-11 Reaping what we sow Brothers and sisters, here is the point: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you must give as you…
20 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 11
20 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 11 Memorial: The Irish Martyrs – see Ordo page 188 for list. 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9 Those who generously helped to finance Paul’s mission were richly blessed We want you to know, brothers and sisters, about the grace of God that has been…
19 June 2023 – Monday of Week 11
19 June 2023 – Monday of Week 11 Optional Memorial: St Romuald, monk who established monasteries in Tuscany, died in 1027. Bl Dermot O’Hurley and Companions: AB of Cashel martyred in 1584. His companions are Bp Terence Albert O’Brien OP, John Kearney OFM and William Tirry OSA. 1st Reading: 2…
18 June 2023 – 11th Sunday, (A)
18 June 2023 – 11th Sunday, (A) Failures and scandals sometimes put the Church into deep crisis. Pray that God will provide worthy ministers for his church. (1) Exodus 19:2-6 God bore the people up on eagles’ wings, crossing the Sinai desert The people had journeyed from Rephidim, entered the…
Presider’s Page for Sunday 18 June (11th Sunday in Ordinary Time & Fathers’ Day)
Presider’s Page for Sunday 18 June (11th Sunday in Ordinary Time & Fathers’ Day) As people loved and chosen by God, we gather to listen and share, before being sent out to live what we believe. Penitential Rite: The Gospel challenges our faith, so we turn to our God of healing…
17 June 2013 – The Immaculate Heart of Mary
17 June 2013 – The Immaculate Heart of Mary 1st Reading: Isaiah 61:9-11 I will greatly rejoice, my whole being shall exult in my God Their descendants shall be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge that they are a people…
16 June 2023 – Friday, The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Year A
16 June 2023 – Friday, The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Year A 1st Reading: Deuteronomy 7:6-11 God has chosen you because he loves you Moses said to the people: ‘You are a people consecrated to the Lord your God; it is you that the Lord our God has chosen…
15 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 10
15 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 10 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 3:15-4:1, 3-6 God has shone in our minds to radiate the light of God’s glory My brethren, to this very day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their minds; but when one turns to the Lord,…
14 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 10
14 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 10 Optional Memorial: St Davnet, lived and died at Tydavet at Sliabh Beagh, Co Monaghan, virgin and founder of a church or monastery. A bachall (staff) of hers has been preserved and was used as a test for truth 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians…
13 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 10
13 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 10 Memorial: St Anthony of Padua, priest and doctor of the Church 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 God has reconciled us and given us the ministry of reconciliation For the love of Christ urges us on, because we are convinced that one has…
12 June 2023 – Monday of Week 10
12 June 2023 – Monday of Week 10 1st Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:1-7 God comforts us in our troubles so we may comfort others Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God that is in Corinth, including all…
Presider’s Page for 11 June (‘Corpus Christi’)
Presider’s Page for 11 June (‘Corpus Christi’) Opening Comment Today’s liturgy invites us to reflect on God’s care for the family of faith, especially through the gift of divine nourishment on our pilgrimage through life. Christ gives us his flesh to eat and his blood to drink: he will raise…
11 June 2023 – Sunday – Corpus Christi, Year A
11 June 2023 – Sunday – Corpus Christi, Year A 1st Reading: Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14-16 He gave you food which you and your ancestors did not know Moses said to the people: ‘Remember how the Lord your God led you for forty years in the wilderness, to humble you, to…
10 June 2023 – Saturday of Week 9
10 June 2023 – Saturday of Week 9 Optional Memorial: St Ephrem the Syrian c. 306-373, native of Mesopotamia, moved to Edessa in Turkey, Scripture commentator, defender against Arianism, devoted to Our Lady. 1st Reading: Tobit 12:1, 5-15 etc The wedding of Tobias and Sarah When the wedding celebration was…
9 June 2023 – Feastday of St Columba (Colum Cille)
9 June 2023 – Feastday of St Columba (Colum Cille) Feast: St Columba, Abbot, Missionary. Columba, also known as Colum Cille, was born in Gartan, County Donegal in 521 and was of royal lineage. He studied under Finnian of Moville and Finnian of Clonard. He founded monasteries in Deny, Durrow,…
8 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 9
8 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 9 1st Reading: Tobit 6-8 (passim The marriage celebration of Tobias and Sarah, and their devout partnership When he entered Media and was approaching Ecbatana, Raphael said to the young man, “Brother Tobias.” “Here I am,” he answered. Then Raphael said to him,…
7 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 9
7 June 2023 – Wednesday of Week 9 Optional Memorial: St Colman (Mocholmos) spent most of his life in Dromore, Co Down. 1st Reading: Tobit 3:1-17 Tobit and Sarah pray to God in deepest anguish; they beg God to let them die Then with much grief and anguish of heart…
6 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 9
6 June 2023 – Tuesday of Week 9 Optional Memorials: St Norbert 1080-1134, founder of the Norbertine Canons. St Jarlath, disciple of St Enda, also taught by St Benignus, became abbot bishop of the monastery he founded in Tuam in the 6th century. Patron of Tuam Archdiocese….
5 June 2023 – Monday of Week 9
5 June 2023 – Monday of Week 9 Optional Memorial: St Boniface c. 675-754, born in Devonshire, educated in English monastery schools, founded monasteries in Bavaria, including Fulda in 735. 1st Reading: Tobit 1:3; 2:1-8 In exile far from home, Tobit still cares for his neighbours I, Tobit, walked in…
4 June 2023 – Sunday of the Most Holy Trinity
4 June 2023 – Sunday of the Most Holy Trinity 1st Reading: Exodus 34:4-6, 8-9 The Lord God, ruler of all, merciful and loving With the two tablets of stone in his hands, Moses went up the mountain of Sinai in the early morning as the Lord had commanded him….
Presider’s Page for 4 June (Trinity Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 4 June (Trinity Sunday) Opening Comment We are invited to reflect on the mystery of God on this Trinity Sunday, as we gather to worship the One who creates, redeems and sanctifies, three persons, one God, without end. Penitential Rite To prepare ourselves for this celebration, let…
3 June 2023 – Saturday of Week 8
3 June 2023 – Saturday of Week 8 Memorial: St Kevin, native of Leinster, grew up in Kilnamanagh, moved to Glendalough, settled in Disert Caoimhghin. Died in 618. 1st Reading: Sirach 51:12-20 In praise of Wisdom You of Lord saved me from destruction and rescued me in time of trouble….
2 June 2023 – Friday of Week 8
2 June 2023 – Friday of Week 8 Optional Memorial : Ss Marcellinus and Peter, martyred under Diocletian in 304. 1st Reading: Sirach 44:1, 9-13 Remembering our ancestors with respect Let us now sing the praises of famous men, our ancestors in their generations. But of others there is no…
1 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 8
1 June 2023 – Thursday of Week 8 Optional Memorial: St Justin – born in the holy Land, settled in Rome, martyred c 165. 1st Reading: Sirach 42:15-25 God fills the universe with an infinite variety of life, strange and marvellous In his majesty he gives the clouds their strength,…
Wed 31 May 2023 – Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Wed 31 May 2023 – Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1st Reading: Zephaniah 3:14-18 A hymn of joy to God my Saviour Sing aloud, O daughter Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away the judgments against you,…
30 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 8
30 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 8 1st Reading: Sirach 35:1-12 The wise person is generous to the poor and abhors extortion The one who keeps the law makes many offerings; one who heeds the commandments makes an offering of well-being. The one who returns a kindness offers choice…
29 May 2023 – Monday – The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
29 May 2023 – Monday – The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church 1st Reading: Genesis 3:9-15, 20 Enmity between the serpent and the woman But the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?”He said, “I heard the sound of you in the…
Presider’s Page for 28 May (Pentecost Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 28 May (Pentecost Sunday) Opening Comment (Mass During the Day) Today we celebrate ‘the great beginning of the Church,’ the day the Holy Spirit first came to confused and frightened disciples. We praise God for this great Gift, and ask for a new outpouring in our day. Penitential…
28 May 2023 – Pentecost Sunday
28 May 2023 – Pentecost Sunday 1st Reading: Acts 2:1-11 The Spirit of God gives energy to the apostles and sends them out on their mission When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the…
27 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 7 of Easter
27 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 7 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 28:16-20, 30-31 Paul is imprisoned in Rome, for two years, awaiting trial When we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him. Three days later he called together…
26 May 2023 – Friday of Week 7 of Easter
26 May 2023 – Friday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Philip Neri, 1515-1595, founded the Congregation of the Oratory to foster good preaching and promote priestly holiness. 1st Reading: Acts 25:13-21 Paul, in prison at Caesarea, explains his predicament to king Agrippa After several days had passed,…
25 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 7 of Easter
25 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorials: St Bede the Venerable, 673-735, monk of Jarrow, historian and biblical commentator. Patron of scholars. St Gregory V11, c1025-1085, Hildebrand of Tuscany was a Cluniac monk in Rome, became a reforming pope who died in exile in Salerno….
24 May 2023 – Wednesday of Week 7 of Easter
24 May 2023 – Wednesday of Week 7 of Easter World Day of Prayer for the Church in China 1st Reading: Acts 20:28-38 Paul’s final advice to the church leaders: shepherd the church of God [Paul said to the leaders of the church] ” Keep watch over yourselves and over…
23 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 7 of Easter
23 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 7 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 20:17-27 Paul’s testament to church leaders, on his way to Jerusalem From Miletus Paul sent a message to Ephesus, asking the elders of the church to meet him. When they came to him, Paul said: “You yourselves…
22 May 2023 – Monday of Week 7 of Easter
22 May 2023 – Monday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Rita of Cascia, 1386-1457, a widow who entered the Augustinian convent, spending 40 years in prayer and charity, and working for peace. 1st Reading: Acts 19:1-8 In Ephesus, followers of John the Baptist become full members of…
Presider’s Page for 21 May (Ascension of the Lord)
Presider’s Page for 21 May (Ascension of the Lord) Opening Comment We celebrate the Ascension of Jesus today. We remember his sending out of the disciples, and his promise to remain with us until the end of time. Penitential Rite Assured by Christ’s words, we renew our trust in his…
21 May 2023 – The Ascension of the Lord, (A)
21 May 2023 – The Ascension of the Lord, (A) 1st Reading: Acts 1:1-11 Ascension concludes Jesus’ ministry on earth and prepares for the gift of the Spirit at Pentecost In the first book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus did and taught from the beginning until the day…
20 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 6
20 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 6 Optional Memorial: St Bernardine, 1380-1444, a Franciscan preacher who promoted devotion to The Holy Name and to St Joseph. 1st Reading: Acts 18:23-28 Aquila, a learned convert from Judaism, helps the church in southern Greece After spending some time there he departed…
Bidding Prayers for 21 May (Ascension of the Lord)
Bidding Prayers for 21 May (Ascension of the Lord) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 21 May Introduction (by the Presider) With confidence, we bring our prayers before God, the Most High: That Christian missionaries may be full of enthusiasm (pause and pray for this…). Lord, hear us. That we may be sustained by…
19 May 2023 – Friday of Week 6 of Easter
19 May 2023 – Friday of Week 6 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 18:9-18 Paul’s trial by Gallio the proconsul breaks down for lack of evidence One night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent; for I am…
18 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 6 of Easter
18 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 6 of Easter Optional Memorial: St John 1, pope and martyr, first Bishop of Rome to visit Constantinople. Involved in Arian controversies, imprisoned at Ravenna, where he died in 526. 1st Reading: Acts 18:1-8 The early days of Paul’s mission in Corinth, and…
17 May 2023 – Wednesday of Week 6 of Easter
17 May 2023 – Wednesday of Week 6 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 17:15, 22-18:1 Paul’s clever sermon in the Areopagus, to lead the Greeks to the true God Those who were guiding Paul brought him as far as Athens; and after being asked to have Silas and Timothy join…
16 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 6 of Easter
16 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 6 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Brendan, a Kerryman born in 486, went to Scotland and probably further. Founded a monastery in Clonfert in 568, died there in 578. 1st Reading: Acts 16:22-34 By their courage, Paul and Barnabas win new converts, in…
15 May 2023 – Monday of Week 6 of Easter
15 May 2023 – Monday of Week 6 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Carthage (or Mochuta), Kerry bishop who moved to Lismore. Died in 638. 1st Reading: Acts 16:11-15 When Paul reaches Philippi, Lydia becomes his first European convert We set sail from Troas and took a straight course to…
14 May 2023 – 6th Sunday of Easter, (A)
14 May 2023 – 6th Sunday of Easter, (A) 1st Reading: Acts 8:5-8, 14-17 Philip’s mission in Samaria shows the joy of the original Gospel faith Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah to them. The crowds with one accord listened eagerly to what was…
Presider’s Page for 14 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 14 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment Each Sunday in Easter time, we celebrate the gifts we have received in Baptism and Confirmation. We rejoice that the Spirit is our Advocate, who continues to support us in the difficulties of life. Penitential Rite As we gather…
Bidding Prayers for 14 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter)
Bidding Prayers for 14 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 14 May Introduction (by the Presider) The works of God are tremendous, so with confidence we make our prayers known: That the Spirit may inspire Pope Francis and all our leaders in faith (pause and pray for this…). Lord,…
13 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 5
13 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 5 Optional Memorial: Our Lady of Fatima Is 61:9-11. Ps 44:11-12, 14-17, R/ v11. Jn 15:18-21 Lect 11: 1431, 1426, 1448. Apparitions to three children began on 13 May 1917. Final apparition was on 13 Oct when the ‘Lady’ identified herself as Our…
12 May 2023 – Friday of Week 5 of Easter
12 May 2023 – Friday of Week 5 of Easter Optional Memorials: Ss Nereus and Achilleus, martyred in 304 under Diocletian; Roman soldiers who refused service after conversion. St Pancras, a 14 year-old boy martyred in Rome at the same time, 304. 1st Reading: Acts 15:22-31 The decision of the…
11 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 5 of Easter
11 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 5 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 15:7-21 Peter and James defend Paul’s missionary practice After there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “My brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that…
10 May 2023 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Easter
10 May 2023 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Easter Optional Memorials: St Comghall, established a monastery at Bangor 555-8 which Columbanus visited. Also founded a monastery in Tiree, Scotland. Died c 605. St John of Avila 1499-1569, priest, honoured as apostle of Andalusia. 1st Reading: Acts 15:1-6 The Council…
9 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Easter
9 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 14:19-28 Paul is stoned and left for dead; but survives to continue his ministry Jews came over from Antioch and Iconium and won over the crowds. Then they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city,…
8 May 2023 – Monday of Week 5 of Easter
8 May 2023 – Monday of Week 5 of Easter Optional memorial: Bl John Sullivan, SJ, 1861-1933 was an (Gardiner St, Dublin community) Irish Jesuit priest who was known for his life of deep prayer and personal sacrifice. He is recognised for his dedicated work with the poor and afflicted,…
7 May 2023 – 5th Sunday of Easter, (A)
7 May 2023 – 5th Sunday of Easter, (A) 1st Reading: Acts 6:1-7 Under pressure, a solution is found to deal with new needs of the community Now during those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected…
Presider’s Page for 7 May (Fifth Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 7 May (Fifth Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment Today’s liturgy puts the life-giving words of Jesus before us. He is the Way, the Truth and the Life, the one in whom we can place all our trust. Because we believe these things, we gather to praise God….
6 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 4
6 May 2023 – Saturday of Week 4 1st Reading: Acts 13:44-52 After failing to convert Jews, Paul and Barnabas turn to the Gentiles The next sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with…
5 May 2023 – Friday of Week 4 of Easter
5 May 2023 – Friday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorial: Bl Edmund Rice, 1762-1844, from Callan, Co Kilkenny, joined other men after his wife died, took vows to work for the Catholic education of boys – CBS. 1st Reading: Acts 13:26-33 Jesus was put to death, but raised…
4 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 4 of Easter
4 May 2023 – Thursday of Week 4 of Easter Optional memorial: St Conleth, born in Wicklow, priested for Brigid and her community in Kildare. Buried beside Brigid. 1st Reading: Acts 13:13-25 Paul’s summary of Israel’s history, up to the time of Christ Paul and his companions set sail from…
3 May 2023 – Saints Philip and James, Apostles
3 May 2023 – Saints Philip and James, Apostles 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 Paul lists the original witnesses of the resurrection, including himself Now I would remind you, brethren, in what terms I preached to you the gospel, which you received, in which you stand, by which you are…
2 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Easter
2 May 2023 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Athanasius, bishop and doctor of the Church, born at Aleaxandria c 295, ardent against the Arian heresy. 1st Reading: Acts 11:19-26 Barnabas goes to Antioch and sees the grace of God at work Those who were scattered…
May 1st – Monday of Week 4 of Easter (St Joseph the Worker)
May 1st – Monday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Joseph the Worker (Gen 1:26-2:3 or Col 3:14-15, 17, 23024. Ps 89:2-4, 12-14, 16, R/ v 17. Mt 13:54-58. Lect 11:1013 – See below 1st Reading: Acts 11:1-18 By inspiration, Peter baptises the first pagan converts The apostles and…
30 April 2023 – 4th Sunday of Easter, (A)
30 April 2023 – 4th Sunday of Easter, (A) 1st Reading: Acts 2:14, 36-41 Paul and Barnabas preach the Gospel first to the Jews, then to pagans, who receive it with joy Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all who live…
Presider’s Page for 30 April (Fourth Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 30 April (Fourth Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment The fourth Sunday of Easter is often called Good Shepherd Sunday, because the readings are about the care we receive from Christ, our true shepherd. Today is also the day of prayer for vocations. Penitential Rite Knowing the God…
29 April 2023 – Saint Catherine of Siena
29 April 2023 – Saint Catherine of Siena 1st Reading: 1 John 1:5, 2:2 The message we have heard from him and proclaim to you This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at…
28 April 2023 – Friday of Week 3 of Easter
28 April 2023 – Friday of Week 3 of Easter Optional Memorials: St Peter Chanel, 1803-41, priests and first martyr of Oceania. St Louis Marie Grignion de Montfort, 1673-1716, priests preacher who wrote about Mary and promoted the daily rosary. 1st Reading: Acts 9:1-20 On the road to Damascus, Saul…
27 April 2023 – Thursday of Week 3 of Easter
27 April 2023 – Thursday of Week 3 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Asicus, accompanied St Patrick and was his metal work craftsman. In charge of Elphin church, founded by Patrick. 1st Reading: Acts 8:26-40 Philip’s joyful spreading of the faith Then an angel of the Lord said to Philip,…
26 April 2023 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Easter
26 April 2023 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 8:1-8 After Stephen’s burial, Saul starts persecuting the church Saul approved of their killing him. That day a severe persecution began against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout the countryside of…
25 April 2023 – Saint Mark, Evangelist
25 April 2023 – Saint Mark, Evangelist 1st Reading: 1 Peter 5:5-14 Peter’s homily includes mention of Mark among the Christians in Rome (“Babylon”) When the chief shepherd appears, you will win the crown of glory that never fades away. In the same way, you who are younger must accept…
24 April 2023 – Monday of Week 3 of Easter
24 April 2023 – Monday of Week 3 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Fidelis of Sigmaringen, 1578-1622, a Capuchin who preached to the Calvinists in Switzerland, where he was killed by extremists. 1st Reading: Acts 6:8-15 Stephen’s preaching stirs the crowd: Is he against Moses? Stephen, full of grace and…
23 April 2023 – 3rd Sunday of Easter, (A)
23 April 2023 – 3rd Sunday of Easter, (A) 1st Reading: Acts 2:14, 32-33 Jesus’ greatest moment was when God raised him to glory. His resurrection shows the Father’s plan for all of us Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all…
22 April 2023 – Saturday of Week 2
22 April 2023 – Saturday of Week 2 1st Reading: Acts 6:1-7 Selection and ordination of the church’s first deacons Now during those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. And…
Presider’s Page for 23 April (Third Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 23 April (Third Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment During the Easter season the Church continues to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead, even in these dark pandemic days. Today, we join together to worship God, who has brought about the great victory over sin and death in…
21 April 2023 – Friday of Week 2 of Easter
21 April 2023 – Friday of Week 2 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Anselm from Lombardy, died in 1109. 1st Reading: Acts 5:34-42 Gamaliel prudently advises his colleagues against condemning Jesus’ followers a Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, respected by all the people, stood…
20 April 2023 – Thursday of Week 2 of Easter
20 April 2023 – Thursday of Week 2 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 5:27-33 What Peter and the apostles told the Jewish council When they had brought them, they had them stand before the council. The high priest questioned them, saying, “We gave you strict orders not to teach in…
19 April 2023 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Easter
19 April 2023 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 5:17-26 The Temple police arrest the apostles, but without violence Then the high priest took action; he and all who were with him (that is, the sect of the Sadducees), being filled with jealousy, arrested the apostles…
18 April 2023 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Easter
18 April 2023 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 4:32-37 The sharing spirit among the early Christians Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held…
17 April 2023 – Monday of Week 2 of Easter
17 April 2023 – Monday of Week 2 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 4:23-31 The first Christian community prays for help to survive the threatened persecution After they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. When they…
Presider’s Page for 16 April (Second Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 16 April (Second Sunday of Easter) Opening Comment Even though Easter Week is now behind us, today’s liturgy still overflows with the joy of Jesus’ resurrection. We continue to celebrate that great event for the next six weeks, until Pentecost Sunday on 28th May, the fiftieth and…
16 April 2023 – 2nd Sunday of Easter (A) – Divine Mercy Sunday
16 April 2023 – 2nd Sunday of Easter (A) – Divine Mercy Sunday 1st Reading: Acts 2:42-47 As a sign of their faith the early Christians shared their possessions They devoted themselves to the apostles” teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone,…
15 April 2023 – Easter Saturday
15 April 2023 – Easter Saturday 1st Reading: Acts (4:13-21) Risking their lives, Peter and John tell what they have seen and heard Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realised that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognised them as companions…
14 April 2023 – Easter Friday
14 April 2023 – Easter Friday 1st Reading: Acts (4:1-12) Peter’s belief that there is salvation in no one else but Jesus While Peter and John were speaking to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came to them, much annoyed because they were teaching…
13 April 2023 – Easter Thursday
13 April 2023 – Easter Thursday 1st Reading: Acts 3:11-26 Peter declares Jesus as the Holy and Righteous One, who is victorious over death While the man who was cured clung to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s Portico, utterly astonished….
12 April 2023 – Easter Wednesday
12 April 2023 – Easter Wednesday 1st Reading: Acts 3:1-10 Calling on the name of Jesus, Peter cures the lame man at the temple gate One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, at three o”clock in the afternoon. And a man…
11 April 2023 – Easter Tuesday
11 April 2023 – Easter Tuesday 1st Reading: Acts 2:36-41 Since God wants all to be saved, Peter calls those who crucified Jesus to repent and be saved Peter said, “Therefore let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this…
10 April 2023 – Easter Monday
10 April 2023 – Easter Monday 1st Reading: Acts 2:14, 22-33 Peter announces the dawning of a new age, with the resurrection of Jesus Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you,…
09 April 2023 – Easter Sunday Years A, B, C
09 April 2023 – Easter Sunday Years A, B, C 1st Reading: Acts 10:34, 37-43 Peter and the other apostles are witnesses to the resurrection Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the…
Presider’s Page for 9 April (Easter Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 9 April (Easter Sunday) This Easter morning we celebrate the central mystery of our faith, the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. He suffered on the cross and died for us, but now he is risen! Introductory Rites: Filled with the spirit of Easter joy, let us…
08 April 2023 – Holy Saturday Easter Vigil Readings
08 April 2023 – Holy Saturday Easter Vigil Readings Old Testament Readings and Psalms Genesis 1:1-2:4a and Psalm 136:1-9, 23-26 Genesis 7:1-5, 11-18; 8:6-18; 9:8-13 and Psalm 46 Genesis 22:1-18 and Psalm 16 Exodus 14:10-31; 15:20-21 and Exodus 15:1b-13, 17-18 Isaiah 55:1-11 and Isaiah 12:2-6 Baruch 3:9-15, 3:32-4:4 or Proverbs…
07 April 2023 – Good Friday
07 April 2023 – Good Friday (1) Isaiah 52:13-53:12 The humiliations of the suffering servant, who bore the sins of his people See, my servant will prosper, he shall be lifted up, exalted, rise to great heights. As the crowds were appalled on seeing him — so disfigured did he…
6 April 2023 – Holy Thursday, Years A, B, C
6 April 2023 – Holy Thursday, Years A, B, C (1) Exodus 12:1-2, 11-14 Israel’s departure from Egypt — to be celebrated for all time Now a man from the house of Levi went and married a Levite woman. The woman conceived and bore a son; and when she saw…
05 April 2023 – Wednesday of Holy Week
05 April 2023 – Wednesday of Holy Week (1) Isaiah 50:4-9 The Suffering Servant trusts in God for rescue The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens, wakens my ear…
04 April 2023 – Tuesday of Holy Week
04 April 2023 – Tuesday of Holy Week (1) Isaiah 49:1-6 The life of God’s servant seems a failure, but it bears great fruit Listen to me, O coastlands, pay attention, you peoples from far away! The Lord called me before I was born, while I was in my mother’s…
Bidding Prayers for 9 April (Easter Sunday)
Bidding Prayers for 9 April (Easter Sunday) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 9 April Introduction (by the Presider) My brothers and sisters, let us give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, his love has no end! He answered the prayers of his Beloved Son: we trust he will help us…
Presider’s Page for 2 April (Palm Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 2 April (Palm Sunday) Today’s liturgy gives us a preview of the events of Holy Week. The passion, death and resurrection of Jesus are the focus of this and every Sunday celebration. Blessing of Palms Almighty and eternal God, bless + these green branches [palms] and make…
03 April 2023 – Monday of Holy Week
03 April 2023 – Monday of Holy Week (1) Isaiah 42:1-7 My servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, the One in whom my soul delights Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth…
2 April 2023 – Palm Sunday, (Passion Sunday) Years A, B, C
2 April 2023 – Palm Sunday, (Passion Sunday) Years A, B, C (1) Isaiah 50:4-7 Words of the Suffering Servant: “I shall not be put to shame!” The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word….
1 April 2023 – Saturday of Week 5 of Lent
1 April 2023 – Saturday of Week 5 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Ceallach, born in 1080, abbot of Armagh and priests. A reformer who presided at the Synod of Rathbreasil in 1111. Died in 1129 and buried in Lismore. (1) Ezekiel 37:21-28 I will bring them back, and I…
31 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 5 of Lent
31 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 5 of Lent (1) Jeremiah 20:10-13 Though many plot against God’s servant, he is safe in God’s hands For I hear many whispering: “Terror is all around! Denounce him! Let us denounce him!” All my close friends are watching for me to stumble….
30 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 5 of Lent
30 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 5 of Lent (1) Genesis 17:3-9 Abraham believe in God’s promises, despite delays and disappointments Then Abram fell on his face; and God said to him, “As for me, this is my covenant with you: You shall be the ancestor of a multitude…
29 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Lent
29 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Lent (1) Daniel 3:14-20, 24-25 Trusting in God, they are saved from the fiery furnace Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods and you do not worship the golden…
28 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Lent
28 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Lent (1) Numbers 21:4-9 The brazen serpent; anyone bitten can look at it and live From Mount Hor they set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; but the people became impatient on…
27 Mar 2023 – Monday of Week 5 of Lent
27 Mar 2023 – Monday of Week 5 of Lent (1) Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 31-62 Susanna is falsely accused; Daniel’s questions uncover the truth There was a man living in Babylon whose name was Joakim. And he took a wife named Susanna, the daughter of Hilkiah, a very beautiful woman…
26 Mar 2023 – 5th Sunday of Lent, Year A
26 Mar 2023 – 5th Sunday of Lent, Year A (1) Ezekiel 37:12-14 During the exile, God’s people were like a pile of dried bones Therefore prophesy, and say to them, Thus says the Lord God: I am going to open your graves, and bring you up from your graves,…
Presider’s Page for 26 March (Fifth Sunday of Lent)
Presider’s Page for 26 March (Fifth Sunday of Lent) In under a fortnight’s time, the Easter Triduum will begin, on Holy Thursday evening. During the Triduum, each of us recalls the great events that Easter remembers. We ask God’s help in the last 10 days of Lent. Penitential Rite To…
Sat 25 Mar 2023 – The Annunciation of the Lord
Sat 25 Mar 2023 – The Annunciation of the Lord 1st Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14; 8:10 King Ahaz refuses to ask a sign of the Lord; Isaiah promises a child to be called Immanuel Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, “Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be…
24 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 4 of Lent
24 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 4 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Macartan, First Bishop of Clogher, known as Patrick’s ‘Strong Man; for his dedication and faithfulness. (1) Wisdom 2:1, 12-22 Malice against the good foreshadows the Passion of Jesus Foolish people reasoned unsoundly, saying to themselves, “Short and…
23 March 2023 – Thursday of Week 4 of Lent
Thursday of Week 4 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Turibus of Mongrovejo, 1538-1606, a layman appointed Bishop fo Lima, Peru by King Philip 11. (1) Exodus 32:7-14 Though his people rebel, Moses begs another chance for them The Lord said to Moses, “Go down at once! Your people, whom you…
22 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Lent
22 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Lent (1) Isaiah 49:8-15 God promises the exiles, “You’ll be a sign of salvation!” Thus says the Lord: ‘In a time of favour I have answered you, on a day of salvation I have helped you; I have kept you and…
21 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Lent
21 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Enda, associated with Louth and Aran. Died c 520, one of the early models of Irish ascetic monasticism. (1) Ezekiel 47:1-9, 12 Life-giving water flows out from the Temple of God Then he brought me back to…
March 20 Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin
March (19) 20 – Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 7:4-6, 12-14, 16 From king David’s offspring will come the universal spiritual King But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan: Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the Lord:…
19 Mar 2023 – 4th Sunday of Lent, Year A
19 Mar 2023 – 4th Sunday of Lent, Year A (1) 1 Samuel 16:1, 6-7, 10-13 Samuel selects and anoints young David as future king of Israel The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul? I have rejected him from being king over Israel. Fill your…
Presider’s Page for 19 March (Fourth Sunday of Lent – Laetare Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 19 March (Fourth Sunday of Lent – Laetare Sunday) Opening Comment Traditionally, this Sunday is called Laetare Sunday, which means ‘a day for joy’. At this midpoint of Lent, it is traditional to honour mothers, treasuring those still with us and praying for those we have lost to death….
18 Mar 2023 – Saturday of Week 3 of Lent
18 Mar 2023 – Saturday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Cyril of Jerusalem, 315-386, catechist and administrator, suffered exile for his fight against Arianism. (1) Hosea 6:1-6 God wants our love more than ritual sacrifice “Come, let us return to the Lord; for it is he who…
17 March: St Patrick, Patron of Ireland
17 March: St Patrick, Patron of Ireland 1st Reading: Sirach 39:6-10 Filled with the spirit of understanding If the great Lord is willing, he will be filled with the spirit of understanding; he will pour forth words of wisdom of his own and give thanks to the Lord in prayer….
Presider’s Page for Friday 17 March (Lá Fhéile Pádraig)
Presider’s Page for Friday 17 March (Lá Fhéile Pádraig) Opening Comment In the heart of Lent, we keep the feast of Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. We mark the day by praising God the creator, who sustained Patrick in good times and bad, and who, we pray, will sustain…
16 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 3 of Lent
16 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 3 of Lent (1) Jeremiah 7:23-28 Life’s highest goal is obedient response to God But this command I gave them, “Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people; and walk only in the way that I…
15 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Lent
15 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Lent (1) Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9 God’s people have clear duties and a high destiny So now, Israel, give heed to the statutes and ordinances that I am teaching you to observe, so that you may live to enter and occupy the…
14 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 3 of Lent
14 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 3 of Lent (1) Daniel 3:25, 34-43 Nebuchadnezzar admires the miraculous escape of the young Jews Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up quickly. He said to his counselors, “Was it not three men that we threw bound into the fire?” They…
13 Mar 2023 – Monday of Week 3 of Lent
13 Mar 2023 – Monday of Week 3 of Lent Tenth anniversary of the election of Pope Francis. (1) 2 Kings 5:1-15 Naaman the Syrian takes the prophet’s advice and is cured of leprosy Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Aram, was a great man and in…
12 Mar 2023 – 3rd Sunday of Lent, Year A
12 Mar 2023 – 3rd Sunday of Lent, Year A (1) Exodus 17:3-7 God provides refreshes his people in the wilderness But the people thirsted there for water; and the people complained against Moses and said, “Why did you bring us out of Egypt, to kill us and our children…
Presider’s Page for 12 March (Third Sunday of Lent)
Presider’s Page for 12 March (Third Sunday of Lent) Today’s readings about water and thirst remind us that this is a baptismal season. The holy water of baptism blesses and protects the faithful in every danger, it washes away sin and refreshes the faith of believers…. Penitential Rite To prepare…
11 Mar 2023 – Saturday of Week 2 of Lent
11 Mar 2023 – Saturday of Week 2 of Lent Optional memorial: St Aengus composed two martyrologies. A monk in Cloneragh, Co Laois (and Tallaght) who died c 824. (1) Micah 7:14-15, 18-20 Israel’s God is a God of mercy Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock that belongs…
Bidding Prayers for 12 March (Third Sunday of Lent)
Bidding Prayers for 12 March (Third Sunday of Lent) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 12 March Introduction (by the Presider) Let us come before the Lord, bringing forward all our needs: For everyone who is baptised, that this Lent we may renew our faith (pause for five seconds). Lord, hear us For adults…
10 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 2 of Lent
10 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 2 of Lent (1) Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13 17-28 Jacob’s sons envy their brother Joseph, and sell him into slavery Now Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his children, because he was the son of his old age; and he had made…
9 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 2 of Lent
9 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 2 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Frances of Rome, died 1440. Founded a society of women following the Rule of St Benedict and joined it after her husband died. (1) Jeremiah 17:5-10 Blessed are those who trust in the Lord rather than in…
8 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Lent
8 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Lent Optional Memorials: St John of God, 1495-1550, patron saint of nurses, the sick, heart patients, printers and booksellers. St Senan, anamchara to Ciarán and Brendan, died in 544. Monastic foundation on Scattery Island near Kilrush (birthplace). (1) Jeremiah 18:18-20 In…
7 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Lent
7 Mar 2023 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Lent Optional Memorial: Ss Perpetua and Felicity, martyred in Carthage in 203. (1) Isaiah 1:10, 16-20 A call to personal conversion, to remove our sins from God’s sight Hear the word of the Lord, you rulers of Sodom! Listen to the…
6 Mar 2023 – Monday of Week 2 of Lent
6 Mar 2023 – Monday of Week 2 of Lent Optional Memorial (except Ossory): St Kieran, pre-Patrician Saint born in Cape Clear, Cork. Missioned abroad, returned as a hermit to Ossory where Saigir became a well-known monastery. (1) Daniel 9:4-10 Daniel’s prayer of shame and repentance I prayed to the…
5 Mar 2023 – 2nd Sunday of Lent, Year A
5 Mar 2023 – 2nd Sunday of Lent, Year A (1) Genesis 12:1-4 Abraham shows complete obedience to God, prepared even to sacrifice Isaac Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I…
Presider’s Page for 5 March (Second Sunday of Lent)
Presider’s Page for 5 March (Second Sunday of Lent) Now that we are ten days into the season of Lent, our goal is clarified in today’s liturgy. The Gospel of the Transfiguration reminds us that we are destined for glory. Like the disciples, we keep this glimpse of glory in…
4 Mar 2023 – Saturday of Week 1 of Lent
4 Mar 2023 – Saturday of Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Casimer, 1458-84, patron saint of Poland, a peacemaker. (1) Deuteronomy 26:16-19 Walking in the way of the Lord This very day the Lord your God is commanding you to observe these statutes and ordinances; so observe them…
Bidding Prayers for 5 March (Second Sunday of Lent)
Bidding Prayers for 5 March (Second Sunday of Lent) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 5 March Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers to God, who loves justice and right: For us, as we continue on our lenten journey (pause for five seconds). Lord, hear us For Christians being persecuted, that…
3 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 1 of Lent
3 Mar 2023 – Friday of Week 1 of Lent (1) Ezekiel 18:21-28 Personal responsibility to replace the idea of shared guilt But if the wicked turn away from all their sins that they have committed and keep all my statutes and do what is lawful and right, they shall…
2 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 1 of Lent
2 Mar 2023 – Thursday of Week 1 of Lent (1) Esther 4:29-42 Queen Esther’s prayer wins God’s help in a time of crisis Queen Esther, seized with deadly anxiety, fled to the Lord. She prayed to the Lord God of Israel, and said: “O my Lord, you only are…
1 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 1 of Lent
1 Mar 2023 – Wednesday of Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorial: St David, Patron of Wales, died c 601. (1) Jonah 3:1-10 When Jonah’s preaching bears fruit, God has mercy on Nineveh The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time, saying, “Get up, go to Nineveh,…
28 Feb 2023 – Tuesday of Week 1 of Lent
28 Feb 2023 – Tuesday of Week 1 of Lent (1) Isaiah 55:10-11 God’s word comes down from heaven like rain, to make the earth fruitful For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it…
27 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 1 of Lent
27 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 1 of Lent Optional memorial: St Gregory of Narek, c950-1003, Armenian Church monk. mystic and poet. A Church doctor, Lamentations is his best known work, 95 ‘conversations with God’ prayers. (1) Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18 Practical guidance for worship and for social compassion The Lord spoke…
26 Feb 2023 – 1st Sunday of Lent (A)
26 Feb 2023 – 1st Sunday of Lent (A) During Lent we may reflect on our Baptism as a sharing in the life of Jesus. Our growing in the image of God has an aspect of dying to self and another aspect of rising to God’s new life of love….
25 Feb 2023 – Sat after Ash Wednesday
25 Feb 2023 – Sat after Ash Wednesday (1) Isaiah 58:9-14 If they are converted, they are blessed, with waters that never fail Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and he will say, “Here I am.” If you remove the yoke from…
24 Feb 2023 – Fri after Ash Wednesday
24 Feb 2023 – Fri after Ash Wednesday Worldwide Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Sexual Abuse (1) Isaiah 58:1-9 True religion differs from merely external observance Shout out, do not hold back! Lift up your voice like a trumpet! Announce to my people their rebellion, to the…
Bidding Prayers for 26 February (First Sunday of Lent)
Bidding Prayers for 26 February (First Sunday of Lent) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 26 February Introduction (by the Presider) As we begin the lenten journey, let us remember all those in need: For Francis our pope and Fintan our bishop, we pray (pause for five seconds). Lord, hear us For Christians who…
23 Feb 2023 – Thurs after Ash Wednesday
23 Feb 2023 – Thurs after Ash Wednesday Optional Memorial: St Polycarp, Bishop fo Smyrna, disciple of St John. Martyred in 155. (1) Deuteronomy 30:15-20 A warm call to fidelity. Choose life, that you and your offspring may live! Keep the commandments of the Lord your God that I am…
22 Feb 2023 – Ash Wednesday (Cycle 1)
22 Feb 2023 – Ash Wednesday (1) Joel 2:12-18Return to me with all your heart. Spare your people, Lord”Now, now,” says the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.”Return to the Lord, your God,…
21 Feb 2023 – Tuesday of Week 7
21 Feb 2023 – Tuesday of Week 7 Optional Memorial: St Peter Damian 1007-72, bishop, doctor of the church, hermit, later Cardinal Bishop of Ostia. Reformer of Church life and discipline. 1st Reading: Sirach 2:1-11 Those who hope in the Lord are not forsaken My child, when you come to…
20 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 7
20 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 7 1st Reading: Sirach/Ecclesiasticus 1:1-10 All wisdom comes from God and returns to him All wisdom is from the Lord, and with him it remains forever. The sand of the sea, the drops of rain, and the days of eternity, who can count…
19 Feb 2023 – 7th Sunday, (A)
19 Feb 2023 – 7th Sunday, (A) We naturally resent those who do us wrong. But nurtured hatred can come between us and God, who wants us to be forgiving. (1) Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18 God calls each believer to love his neighbour as her/himself The Lord spoke to Moses, saying:…
18 Feb 2023 – Saturday of Week 6
18 Feb 2023 – Saturday of Week 6 Saturday Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1st Reading: Hebrews 11:1-7 By faith we understand that the world is ruled by God’s will Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our…
Bidding Prayers for 19 February (Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Bidding Prayers for 19 February (Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 19 February Introduction (by the Presider) We bring our prayers to our God of compassion and love, who is slow to anger and rich in mercy: For Francis our pope and all leaders (pause for five seconds). Lord,…
17 Feb 2023 – Friday of Week 6
17 Feb 2023 – Friday of Week 6 Optional Memorials: early thirteenth century in Florence, Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order, known as the Servants of Mary, they followed the Rule of St Augustine. St Fintan d 603, born in Leinster, foundation in Clonenagh, Co Laois. 1st Reading: Genesis…
16 Feb 2023 – Thursday of Week 6
16 Feb 2023 – Thursday of Week 6 1st Reading: Genesis 9:1-13 The rainbow, a perpetual sign of God’s covenant with Noah and the human race God blessed Noah and his sons, and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth. The fear and dread of you…
15 Feb 2023 – Wednesday of Week 6
15 Feb 2023 – Wednesday of Week 6 1st Reading: Genesis 8:6-13, 20-22 The Lord promises never again to destroy the earth At the end of forty days Noah opened the window of the ark that he had made and sent out the raven; and it went to and fro…
14 Feb 2023 – Saints Cyril and Methodius
14 Feb 2023 – Saints Cyril and Methodius Cyril and Methodius were brothers born in Byzantine Thessalonika, northern Greece, in the 9th century, who brought Christianity to the Slavic peoples of modern Czech Republic and Hungary. For their work they were declared co-patrons of Europe in 1999, by Pope John…
13 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 6
13 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 6 1st Reading: Genesis 4:1-15 Cain’s jealousy leads to his murder of Abel Now the man knew his wife Eve, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have produced a man with the help of the Lord.” Next she bore his brother…
12 Feb 2023 – 6th Sunday, (A)
12 Feb 2023 – 6th Sunday, (A) Using freedom well. It is not our misdeeds which accuse us before God, but our hearts, fractured and divided as they are. Jesus insists that we go deeper than our external deeds. The vital question is what is going on in our hearts,…
Presider’s Page for 12 February (Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 12 February (Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time) Today’s readings ask for decisions, challenging Christians to choose the right path. We gather to worship God, who can help us in all our choices. Penitential Rite To prepare ourselves for the challenges of God’s Word, let us call to…
11 Feb 2023 – Saturday of Week 5 – World Day of the Sick
11 Feb 2023 – Saturday of Week 5 – World Day of the Sick Optional Memorials: Our Lady of Lourdes – Is 66:10-14. Ps Jud 13:18-19, R/15:19. Jn 2:1-11 Lect 11:955. Our Lady appeared to Bernadette Soubirous (14) on this day in 1858 – “I am the Immaculate Conception.” World Day of…
10 Feb 2023 – Friday of Week 5
10 Feb 2023 – Friday of Week 5 Memorial: St Scholastica died c543, sister of St Benedict. Patron of convulsive children. 1st Reading: Genesis 3:1-8 Woman and man disobey God and try to hide from him in the garden The serpent was more crafty than any other wild animal that…
9 Feb 2023 – Thursday of Week 5
9 Feb 2023 – Thursday of Week 5 1st Reading: Genesis 2:18-25 Woman stands equal to man, as they are joined as one flesh The Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” So out of…
8 Feb 2023 – Wednesday of Week 5
8 Feb 2023 – Wednesday of Week 5 – International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking. Optional Memorials: St Jerome Emiliani d 1537, military man, founded the Clerks Regular of Somaschi for the care of orphans and the poor. Patron saint of orphans. St Josephine Bakhita 1868-1947, Sudan…
7 Feb 2023 – Tuesday of Week 5
7 Feb 2023 – Tuesday of Week 5 Optional Memorial: St Mel (Ardagh & Clonmacnoise), d 488, a Brit who arrived with Patrick, gave the religious veil to Brigid. 1st Reading: Genesis 1:20, 2:4 After forming man and woman to the divine likeness, God rested on the seventh day God…
6 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 5
6 Feb 2023 – Monday of Week 5 1st Reading: Genesis 1:1-19 God creates light, sky, earth and sun, moon and stars, in the act of creation In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of…
Presider’s Page for 5 February (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 5 February (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time) February 4 2023 Over these Sundays, we listen to what Jesus said in his Sermon on the Mount. In today’s liturgy, we hear that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Rejoicing in this…
5 Feb 2023 – 5th Sunday, (A)
5 Feb 2023 – 5th Sunday, (A) Theme: Salt and Light Tyranny and oppression still flourish in many places abroad; and in less spectacular fashion closer to home. Unfairness and structural abuse often stare us in the face, such as long-term poverty, unemployment and homelessness. Christ invites us to solidarity…
4 Feb 2023 – Saturday of Week 4
4 Feb 2023 – Saturday of Week 4 1st Reading: Hebrews 13:15-17, 20-21 God raised up Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep Through him, let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name. Do not neglect to do…
3 Feb 2023 – Friday of Week 4 – St Blaise
3 Feb 2023 – Friday of Week 4 Optional Memorials: St Ansgar, French born, ninth century, AB of Hamburg, preached in Denmark and Sweden. Apostle of Scandinavia. Patron of Denmark. St Blaise, d 315, bishop (of Sebaste) and martyr, physician, patron saint of people who suffer from disease of the…
Bidding Prayers for 5 February (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Bidding Prayers for 5 February (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 5 February Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers to the Lord, in whom we place our trust: For peace in the Middle East (pause for five seconds). Lord, hear us For an end to war…
2 Feb 2023 – Presentation of Our Lord
2 Feb 2023 – Presentation of Our Lord World Day for Consecrated Life 1st Reading: Malachi 3:1-4 When God’s Messenger arrives, he will refine the people See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple….
1 Feb 2023 – Saint Brigid of Kildare
1 Feb 2023 – Saint Brigid of Kildare, Secondary Patron of Ireland 1st Reading: Job 31:16-20; 24-25; 31-32 Job’s generosity towards the needy is reflected in St Brigid’s works of charity I have never withheld anything that the poor desired, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail,…
31 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 4
31 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 4 Memorial: St John Bosco 1815-88, founder of the Salesians. Patron youth and Catholic publishers. 1st Reading: Hebrews 12:1-4 Around us a cloud of witnesses, and Jesus himself, to encourage us Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,…
30 Jan 2023 – Monday of Week 4
30 Jan 2023 – Monday of Week 4 Optional Memorial: St Aidan, aka Maedoc (Mogue), born c 550, founded a monastery at Ferns, died 626. Bl. Margaret Ball, died in Dublin Castle in 1584. Imprisoned for teaching Catholicism, harbouring priests and having Mass celebrate din her home. Bl. Francis Taylor…
29 Jan 2023 – 4th Sunday, (A)
29 Jan 2023 – 4th Sunday, (A) Theme: The beatitudes are the basic Christian ideals, not a moral code or a set of rules to avoid God’s punishment. They aim to raise our perspective above the constraints of self-interest and gain. (1) Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13 For I will leave among…
28 Jan 2023 – Saturday of Week 3
28 Jan 2023 – Saturday of Week 3 Memorial: St Thomas Aquinas 1224-1274, theologian of note! Patron of schools, universities, students and booksellers. 1st Reading: Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19 Divine blessing on Abraham and his descendants Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed,…
27 Jan 2023 – Friday of Week 3
27 Jan 2023 – Friday of Week 3 Optional Memorial: St Angela Merici 1474-1540, founder of the Ursulines 1st Reading, Hebrews 10:32-39 Do not abandon hope, but trust in God’s promises Remember those earlier days when, after you had been enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being…
26 January 2023 – Thursday Week 3 in Ordinary Time – Saints Timothy and Titus
26 January 2023 – Thursday Week 3 in Ordinary Time – Saints Timothy and Titus 1st Reading: 2 Timothy 1:1-9 Use the gifts God has given us, for the service of the church Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, for the sake of the promise of life…
25 Jan 2023 – The Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle
25 Jan 2023 – The Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle 1st Reading: Acts 22:3-16 Paul’s account of his conversion, to his fellow-Jews, on the steps of the Temple “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, educated strictly…
24 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 3
24 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 3 Memorial: St Francis de Sales 1567-1622, bishop of Geneva, founder of the Visitation Sisters. Patron saint of writers, editors and journalists. 1st Reading: Hebrews 10:1-10 The temple rituals were a type of the new covenant, brought by Jesus for all Since the…
PRESIDER’S PAGE FOR 29 JANUARY (FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME)
PRESIDER’S PAGE FOR 29 JANUARY (FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) We gather to celebrate the resurrection of our Saviour and to remember his beautiful teachings. In the Beatitudes, which we read at Mass today, Jesus describes the kinds of people who are blessed in God’s eyes. We hope to join…
23 Jan 2023 – Monday of Week 3
23 Jan 2023 – Monday of Week 3 1st Reading: Hebrews 9:15, 24-28 Jesus as the mediator of a new covenant Jesus is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, because a death has occurred that redeems them from…
22 Jan 2023 – 3rd Sunday, (A)
22 Jan 2023 – 3rd Sunday, (A) Sunday of the Word of God Catholic Schools week starts today (1) Isaiah 9:1-3 Isaiah foretells a Saviour for the people who walked in darkness In the former time God brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but…
Presider’s Page for 22 January (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 22 January (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time) The people that walked in darkness has seen a great light: Jesus, the light of the world, walks among us, preaching a message of repentance. We gather to listen to him, to share the bread of life and to prepare…
21 Jan 2023 – Saturday of Week 2
21 Jan 2023 – Saturday of Week 2 Memorial: St Agnes, martyred in early 4th century. Patron of engaged couples, gardeners and young girls. 1st Reading: Hebrews 9:2-3, 11-14 Jesus enters the Holy of Holies, so we can serve the living God A tent was constructed, the first one, in…
20 Jan 2023 – Friday of Week 2
20 Jan 2023 – Friday of Week 2 Optional Memorials: St Fabian, martyred when Pope in 250. St Sebastian: martyred under Diocletian. 1st Reading: Hebrews 8:6-13 Mediator of a new covenant Jesus has now obtained a more excellent ministry, and to that degree he is the mediator of a better…
19 Jan 2023 – Thursday of Week 2
19 Jan 2023 – Thursday of Week 2 1st Reading: Hebrews 7:25-8:6 Jesus our high priest serves in the true tabernacle of heaven Jesus he is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. For it was…
18 Jan 2023 – Wednesday of Week 2
18 Jan 2023 – Wednesday of Week 2 1st Reading: Hebrews 7:1-3, 15-17 The priesthood of Jesus is mysterious and eternal, like Melchisedek’s King Melchizedek of Salem, priest of the Most High God, met Abraham as he was returning from defeating the kings and blessed him; and to him Abraham…