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.
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…
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…
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 2:12-18 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…
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…
17 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 2
17 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 2 Memorial: St Anthony, died 356 – ‘father of monasticism’ who lived a life of solitude. 1st Reading: Hebrews 6:10-20 Abraham’s long-delayed son. A lesson in patience God is not unjust; he will not overlook your work and the love that you showed…
16 Jan 2022 – Monday of Week 2
16 Jan 2022 – Monday of Week 2 Optional Memorial: St Fursa, Irish missionary who settled in East Anglia before moving to France in 644. Died c650 at Mézerolles and buried in Péronne. 1st Reading: Hebrews 5:1-10 Jesus is our Priest, and the source of eternal salvation for all Every…
15 Jan 2023 – 2nd Sunday, (A)
15 Jan 2023 – 2nd Sunday, (A) (1) Isaiah 49:3, 5-6 God is preparing his people Israel to become a light for all nations The Lord said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.” And now the Lord says, who formed me in the…
14 Jan 2022 – Saturday of Week 1
14 Jan 2022 – Saturday of Week 1 1st Reading: Hebrews 4:12-16 Our merciful high priest has passed into heaven Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the…
Bidding Prayers for 15 January (Second Sunday in Ordinary Time)
BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on 15 January Introduction (by the Presider) The Lord is our light and our help, so let us bring all our needs to God: For an end to war and violence, we pray (pause for a moment). Lord, hear us For harmony among nations, we pray (pause for a moment). Lord,…
13 Jan 2023 – Friday of Week 1
13 Jan 2023 – Friday of Week 1 Optional memorial: St Hilary c.315-c.367, bishop and doctor of the church. 1st Reading: Hebrews 4:1-5, 11 Through faith we shall enter into God’s day of rest While the promise of entering his rest is still open, let us take care that none…
12 Jan 2023 – Thursday of Week 1
12 Jan 2023 – Thursday of Week 1 1st Reading: Hebrews 3:7-14 Hearts opened to God, not hardened by sin Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, as on the day of testing in the desert,…
11 Jan 2023 – Wednesday of Week 1
11 Jan 2023 – Wednesday of Week 1 1st Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18 Jesus shared our flesh and blood and so is able to help us in our trials Since the children share flesh and blood, he himself likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might destroy the…
10 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 1
10 Jan 2023 – Tuesday of Week 1 1st Reading: Hebrews 2:5-12 Jesus, crowned with glory, having been tested through suffering Now God did not subject the coming world, about which we are speaking, to angels. But someone has testified somewhere, “What are human beings that you are mindful of…
9 Jan 2023 – Monday of Week 1
9 Jan 2023 – Monday of Week 1 (Note: Sunday Cycle A, Weekday Cycle 1 – 1st Week in Ordinary Time) 1st Reading: Hebrews 1:1-6 God spoke in many and varied ways, but now through Jesus, his Son and heir Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and…
Presider’s Page for 8 January 2023 (Baptism of the Lord)
Presider’s Page for 8 January 2023 (Baptism of the Lord) This feast of the Baptism of the Lord marks the last day of Christmas. At his baptism Jesus sees how much he is loved by God and is given the power to go out and spread the news. We share…
Sunday – 08 January 2023. The Baptism of the Lord
Sunday – 08 January 2023. The Baptism of the Lord Theme: Jesus brings justice and divine life to the nations. As his baptised family, we seek the kingdom of God through justice and peace. 1st Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 A courageous servant of God will help others to keep the…
7 January 2023 – Saturday after Epiphany
7 January 2023 – Saturday after Epiphany Optional Memorial: St Raymond of Penafort, 1175-1275, Dominican lawyer and Archbishop of Tarragona. 1st Reading: 1 John 3:22 – 4:6 Distinguishing the spirit of truth from the spirit of error Beloved, we receive from him whatever we ask, because we obey his commandments…
6 January 2023, Friday, The Epiphany of the Lord
6 January 2023, Friday, 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…
5 January 2023 – Thursday Before Epiphany
5 January 2023 – Thursday Before Epiphany Optional Memorial: St Charles of St Andrew – John Andrew Houben (1821-1893) from Munstergeleen, Holland, was briefly the Dutch army before being called to religious life with the Passionists in 1845, in Belgium, taking the name Charles. After ordination he was sent to…
4 January 2023 – Wednesday Before Epiphany
4 January 2023 – Wednesday 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 January 2023 – Tuesday Before Epiphany
3 January 2023 – Tuesday Before Epiphany Optional Memorials: The Holy Name of Jesus (Phil 2: 1-11. Ps 8:4-9. Lk 2:21-24.) St Munchin (Mainchin) (Limerick), patron 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…
2 January 2023 – Monday before Epiphany
2 January 2023 – Monday before Epiphany 1st Reading: 1 John 2:22-28 The Holy Spirit received from Jesus, teaches you all things Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son. No…
1 Jan 2023 – Mary, The Holy Mother Of God
1 Jan 2023 – Mary, The Holy 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…
Presider’s Page 1 Jan 2023
Presider’s Page for Sunday 1 January 2023 (Mary, Mother of God) The Virgin Mary was already venerated as Mother of God when, in 431, the Council of Ephesus acclaimed her Theotokos (God-bearer). Her role in the mystery of the incarnation was celebrated on this day in Rome in the seventh…
31 December 2022 – 7th Day in the Octave of Christmas
31 December 2022 – 7th Day in the Octave of Christmas Optional memorial: Saint Sylvester, pope. Sylvester (250-335) was born in Rome in the mid-3rd century and served as a priest under pope Marcellinus before the persecution under Diocletian (303). After the victory of emperor Constantine in 312 he succeeded Melchiades…
Bidding Prayers for 1st January 2023 (Feast of Mary, Mother of God)
Bidding Prayers for 1st January 2023 (Feast of Mary, Mother of God) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass on New Year’s Day Introduction (by the Presider) God graciously blesses all of humanity, so we can bring forward our needs with confidence: That the world may have peace in 2023 (pause for a moment). Lord, hear…
30 December 2022 – 6th Day in the Octave of Christmas – Feast of the Holy Family
30 December 2022 – 6th Day in the Octave of Christmas Feast of the Holy Family Theme: Family life can be severely challenged, from various causes. This feast invites us to renew our commitment to family life. 1st Reading. Book of Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14 A practical application of the fourth…
29 December 2022 – Thursday, 5th Day in the Octave of Christmas
29 December 2022 – Thursday, 5th Day in the Octave of Christmas Optional Memorial: Saint Thomas a Becket, 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…
28 Dec 2022 – Wednesday, The Holy Innocents, Martyrs
28 Dec 2022 – Wednesday, 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 is…
27 Dec 2022 – Tuesday, Saint John, Apostle and Evangelist
27 Dec 2022 – Tuesday, 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…
Presider’s Page for Monday 26 December (St Stephen’s Day)
Presider’s Page for Monday 26 December (St Stephen’s Day) From the splendid robes of Christmas, the Church moves to the red vestments of the martyr on St Stephen’s Day, the feast of the first to give his life in the Christian era. Like Jesus, Stephen teaches forgiveness; like Jesus too,…
26 Dec 2022 – Monday, St Stephen, First Martyr
26 Dec 2022 – Monday, St Stephen, 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 – Midnight Mass and Christmas Day Mass
25 Dec 2022 – Christmas Midnight Mass (Christmas Day Mass Readings follow below) 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…
Presider’s Page for 25 December (Christmas Day Masses)
Presider’s Page for 25 December (Christmas Day Masses) We celebrate today an amazing mystery — God is born in time. The eternal God has taken human flesh, has pitched his tent in the midst of humanity. With joy in our hearts, we contemplate the mystery of the Word made flesh….
24 December 2022 – Saturday of 4th Week of Advent
24 December 2022 – Saturday of 4th Week 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…
23 December 2022 – Friday of 4th Week of Advent
23 December 2022 – Friday of 4th Week of Advent Optional Memorial: St John of Kanty, 1390-1473, Kraków, Poland, a theologian. 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 messenger to prepare…
22 December 2022 – Thursday of 4th Week of Advent
22 December 2022 – Thursday of 4th Week of Advent 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…
21 Dec 2022 – Wednesday of 4th Week of Advent
21 Dec 2022 – Wednesday of 4th Week of Advent Optional Memorial: St Peter Canisius, 1521-97, Holland born Jesuit who produced a 211 questions/answers catechism in 1555. 1st Reading: Song of Songs (2:8-14 Lyrical love-poetry from king Solomon, about the beloved who is coming The voice of my beloved! Look,…
20 Dec 2022 – Tuesday of 4th Week of Advent
20 Dec 2022 – Tuesday of 4th Week of Advent Feast (Kilfenora): St Fachanan, sixth century patron of Kilfenora, part of Galway. 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 spoke to Ahaz,…
Bidding Prayers 25 Dec 2022 (Christmas Day)
Bidding Prayers 25 Dec 2022 (Christmas Day) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers to God, who has shown his salvation to the nations in the nativity of our Saviour. That those who mark the birth of Christ today may have new hope (pause for a…
19 December 2022 – Monday of 4th Week of Advent
19 December 2022 – Monday of 4th Week of Advent 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…
18 Dec 2022 – 4th Sunday in Advent, A
18 Dec 2022 – 4th Sunday in Advent, A 1st Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14 The prophecy about “Emmanuel — God with us” invites king Ahaz to trust Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as…
17 Dec 2022 – Saturday of 3rd Week of Advent
17 Dec 2022 – Saturday of 3rd Week of Advent The Roman Church has been singing The O Antiphons since at least the eighth century. They are the antiphons that accompany the Magnificat canticle of Evening Prayer from December 17-23. They are a magnificent theology that uses ancient biblical imagery drawn…
16 Dec 2022 – Friday of 3rd week of Advent
16 Dec 2022 – Friday of 3rd week of Advent First Reading: Isaiah 56:1-3, 6-8 Thus says the Lord: Maintain justice, and do what is right, for soon my salvation will come, and my deliverance be revealed. Happy is the mortal who does this, the one who holds it fast,…
15 Dec 2022 – Thursday 3rd Week of Advent
15 Dec 2022 – Thursday 3rd Week of Advent Reading: Isaiah 54: 1-10 Sing, O barren one who did not bear; burst into song and shout, you who have not been in labour! For the children of the desolate woman will be more than the children of her that is…
Bidding Prayers 18 Dec 2022 (Fourth Sunday of Advent)
Bidding Prayers 18 Dec 2022 (Fourth Sunday of Advent) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers to the Lord, the King of Glory. That the world may not forget those dying of hunger in Africa (pause for a moment). Lord, hear us That Christmas may bring peace where there…
14 Dec 2022 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 3
14 Dec 2022 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 3 Memorial: St John of the Cross, 1542-1591, Carmelite poet and doctor of the Church. With the divinest Word, the Virgin Made pregnant, down the road Comes walking, if you’ll grant her A room in your abode… ~St. John of the Cross…
13 Dec 2022 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 3
13 Dec 2022 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 3 Memorial: St Lucy, martyred in 304 in Sicily under Diocletian. 1st Reading: Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13 The people’s future conversion: the humble shall seek refuge in the Lord. Ah, soiled, defiled, oppressing city! It has listened to no voice; it has accepted…
12 Dec 2022 – Monday of Advent, Week 3
12 Dec 2022 – Monday of Advent, Week 3 Optional Memorials: Our Lady of Guadalupe, patron of the Americas; St Finnian: established a famous school in Clonard, Meath c 520. Tutor of Canice, Colm Cille and Brendan. Died in 549. Monday of Advent, Week 3 1st Reading: Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17…
11 Dec 2022 – 3rd Sunday in Advent, A
11 Dec 2022 – 3rd Sunday in Advent, A Theme: Society finds it so hard to tolerate dissent that those who step out of line are often harshly treated. John the Baptist dared to castigate King Herod for his immoral example, and paid for it with his life. 1st Reading:…
10 Dec 2022 – Saturday of Advent, Week 2
10 Dec 2022 – Saturday of Advent, Week 2 Optional Memorial: Blessed Virgin Mary of Loreto See link to decree from the Congregation for Divine Worship: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2019/10/31/191031e.html 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,…
Bidding Prayers 11 Dec 2022 (Third Sunday of Advent)
Bidding Prayers 11 Dec 2022 (Third Sunday of Advent) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers to God, who raises up those who are bowed down. That all may realise the beauty and truth of the Gospel (pause for a moment). Lord, hear us That Christians may…
9 Dec 2022 – Friday of Advent, Week 2
9 Dec 2022 – Friday of Advent, Week 2 Optional Memorial: St Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, 1474-1548, saw the vision of Our Lady of Guadalupe in 1531. 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…
8 December 2022 – The Immaculate Conception
8 December 2022 – 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…
7 Dec – Wednesday of Advent, Week 2
7 Dec – Wednesday of Advent, Week 2 Memorial: St Ambrose, 339-397, patron of Milan, beekeepers and domestic animals. 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….
6 Dec 2022 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 2
6 Dec 2022 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 2 Optional Memorial: St Nicholas – Feast in Galway, Solemnity in City of Galway. Fourth century Bishop of Myra. Patron of Russia, sailors, pawnbrokers and children. 1st Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11 Comfort ye my people! — the promised return of the exiles from…
5 Dec 2022 – Monday of Advent, Week 2
5 Dec 2022 – Monday of Advent, Week 2 1st Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10 They shall see the glory of the Lord, and the ransomed exiles shall return to Zion The desert and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom…
4 Dec 2022 – 2nd Sunday in Advent, A
4 Dec 2022 – 2nd Sunday in Advent, A Theme: John the Baptist’s life work was preparing the way for our Messiah. Once Christ came, it only remained for John to disappear gracefully. Like John, we should make way for Christ in the lives of others. 1st Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10…
Presider’s Page for 4 December (Second Sunday of Advent A)
Presider’s Page for 4 December (Second Sunday of Advent A) John the Baptist is the focus of the Gospel reading on the Second Sunday of Advent each year. His words challenge and inspire. We worship God who uses many messengers to call us from darkness to light. Penitential Rite As…
3 Dec 2022 – Saturday of Advent, Week 1
3 Dec 2022 – Saturday of Advent, Week 1 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 of Jerusalem, you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of…
2 Dec 2022 – Friday of Advent, Week 1
2 Dec 2022 – Friday of Advent, Week 1 1st Reading: Isaiah 29:17-24 A promise of good times, when deaf shall hear and blind shall see Shall not Lebanon in a very little while become a fruitful field, and the fruitful field be regarded as a forest? On that day…
1 Dec 2022 – Thursday of Advent, Week 1
1 Dec 2022 – Thursday of Advent, Week 1 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 a strong city; he sets up victory like walls and bulwarks….
30 Nov 2022 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 1
30 Nov 2022 – Wednesday of Advent, Week 1 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 of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food, a feast of…
Bidding Prayers 4 Dec 2022 (Second Sunday of Advent)
Bidding Prayers 4 Dec 2022 (Second Sunday of Advent) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers before God, who has pity on the weak. For a spirit of repentance among us, we pray … (pause for a moment). Lord, hear us For peace in our world,…
29 Nov 2022 – Tuesday of Advent, Week 1
29 Nov 2022 – 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…
28 Nov 2022 – Monday of Advent, Week 1
28 Nov 2022 – Monday of Advent, Week 1 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 saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as…
Presider’s Page for 27 November (First Sunday of Advent, Year A)
Presider’s Page for 27 November (First Sunday of Advent, Year A) The season of Advent begins today. During the next four full weeks we will look forward in hope. We will watch for the end times, when Christ will come in glory, Christ whose birthday we will celebrate very soon….
27 Nov 2022 – 1st Sunday in Advent, A
27 Nov 2022 – 1st Sunday in Advent, A 1st Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5 A happy future for all who seek the truth and work for peace The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be…
26 Nov 2022 – Saturday of Week 34
26 Nov 2022 – Saturday of Week 34 1st Reading: Revelation 22:1-7 The river of life, the healing fruits and the Lamb who is coming soon Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the…
25 Nov 2022 – Friday of Week 34
25 Nov 2022 – Friday of Week 34 Optional Memorials: St Catherine of Alexandria, martyred in 310, honoured in monastery on Mount Sinai. St Clement 1, 88-97, third successor St Peter. St Colman, c530, bard and priest, main foundation at Cloyne. 1st Reading: Revelation 20:1-4; 21:1-2 Those who reject the…
24 Nov 2022 – Thursday of Week 34
24 Nov 2022 – Thursday of Week 34 Memorial: Ss Andrew Dūng-Lac and Companions, martyrs in Vietnam in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. 1st Reading: Revelation 18:1-2, 21-23; 19:1-3, 9 The happy guests at the Lamb’s wedding feast I, John, saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great…
Bidding Prayers 27 Nov 2022 (First Sunday of Advent)
Bidding Prayers 27 Nov 2022 (First Sunday of Advent) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass Introduction (by the Presider) Knowing that God is listening, let us make our prayers known. That the poor of the world may have justice (pray quietly). Lord, hear us That all may care about the earth, our common home (pray quietly). Lord,…
23 Nov 2022 – Wednesday of Week 34
23 Nov 2022 – Wednesday of Week 34 Memorial: St Columban, c543-615, Bangor monk, missionary to Annegray, Luxeuil, Fontaine and Bobbio – one of the greatest Irish missionary monks. 1st Reading: Revelation 15:1-4 The seven plagues sent by the wrath of God Then I saw another portent in heaven, great…
22 Nov 2022 – Tuesday of Week 34
22 Nov 2022 – Tuesday of Week 34 Memorial: St Cecilia, early Roman Christian martyr. Patron of Music and musicians. 1st Reading: Revelation 14:14-19 The grapes are thrown into the winepress of God’s wrath Then I looked, and there was a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was one…
21 Nov 2022 – Presentation of Our Lady
21 Nov 2022 – 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 2022 – 34th Sunday (C) – Christ the King
20 Nov 2022 – 34th Sunday (C) – Christ the King (1) 2 Samuel 5:1-3 David becomes king of a united people All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “Look, we are your bone and flesh. For some time, while Saul was king over us,…
19 Nov 2022 – Saturday of Week 33
19 Nov 2022 – Saturday of Week 33 1st Reading: Revelation 11:4-12 The two prophets were killed as martyrs, possibly Peter and Paul, but are taken up to heaven in glory I, John, heard a voice saying: “These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before…
18 Nov 2022 – Friday of Week 33
18 Nov 2022 – Friday of Week 33 Optional Memorial: Dedication of the Basilicas of Ss Peter and Paul. 1st Reading: Revelation 10:8-11 The scroll that was sweet on the tongue but sour in the stomach I, John, heard the voice that I had heard from heaven speak to me…
17 Nov 2022 – Thursday of Week 33
17 Nov 2022 – Thursday of Week 33 Memorial: St Elizabeth of Hungary 1207-31, queen, widow, exile, Franciscan tertiary and woman of prayer. 1st Reading: Revelation 5:1-10 The Lamb who was killed opens the seals of the Book of Life I, John, saw in the right hand of the one…
16 Nov 2022 – Wednesday of Week 33
16 Nov 2022 – Wednesday of Week 33 Optional Memorials: St Margaret of Scotland, 1045-93, Church reformer. St Gertrude, 1256-1302, Benedictine nun devoted to the Sacred Heart and advocated frequent Holy Communion. 1st Reading: Revelation 4:1-11 The twenty-four elders before God’s throne In my vision I looked, and there in…
15 Nov 2022 – Tuesday of Week 33
15 Nov 2022 – Tuesday of Week 33 Optional Memorial: St Albert the Great, c1206-80, Dominican theologian in Cologne. Patron of scientists. 1st Reading: Revelation 3:1-6, 14-22 Those who are lukewarm will be spat out I, John, heard the Lord say to me, “To the angel of the church in…
Presider’s Page for 20 November (Christ the King)
Presider’s Page for 20 November (Christ the King) November 14 2022 We celebrate the feast of Christ the King today, acclaiming Jesus as our king, the one who died for us and rose triumphant. We offer praise and worship — and ask for the grace to live as worthy citizens…
14 Nov 2022 – Monday of Week 33
14 Nov 2022 – Monday of Week 33 Optional Memorial: St Laurence O’Toole (Dublin), 1123-1180, Glendalough monk who was the first native Archbishop of Dublin. Attended the Third Lateran Council in 1179, returned as Papal Legate and held synods on reform. Died at Eu in Normandy. 1st Reading: Revelation Apocalypse)…
13 Nov 2022 – 33rd Sunday (C)
13 Nov 2022 – 33rd Sunday (C) World Day of the Poor Towards the end of the church’s year, we remember the ‘last things’ and in particular, the Lord’s return. We should live our lives in the light of eternity (1) Malachi 3:19-20 The Day of the Lord will bring…
12 Nov 2022 – Saturday of Week 32
12 Nov 2022 – Saturday of Week 32 Memorial: St Josaphat, 1580-1623, Bishop of Polotz who worked for the reunion of Ukrainian Catholics. His murder by those who opposed him brought about many conversions. 1st Reading: 3 John verses 5-8 It is well to provide hospitality for traveling missionaries Beloved,…
Presider’s Page for 13 November (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 13 November (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time) The readings this Sunday focus on the end of the world, though we are also reassured that people of faith have nothing to fear. (Today is also World Day of the Poor.) Penitential Rite We renew our trust in God’s…
11 Nov 2022 – Friday of Week 32
11 Nov 2022 – Friday of Week 32 Memorial: St Martin of Tours, 316-397, Bishop of Tours. Patron of France, soldiers, beggars and innkeepers. 1st Reading: 2 John verses 4-9 Love one another and acknowledge that Jesus Christ has come incarnate in the flesh I was overjoyed to find some…
Bidding Prayers 13 Nov 2022 (33rd Sunday)
Bidding Prayers 13 Nov 2022 (33rd Sunday) BIDDING PRAYERS for Sunday Mass Introduction (by the Presider) My friends, let us make our prayers known to God who rules the earth, who saves the lives of the poor. That the Church may be a voice for the poor (pray quietly). Lord, hear us That people…
10 Nov 2022 – Thursday of Week 32
10 Nov 2022 – Thursday of Week 32 Memorial: St Leo the Great, elected Bishop of Rome 440, taught the two natures of Christ – human and divine – at the Council of Chalcedon, 451, and the primacy of Peter. 1st Reading: Philemon (verses 7-20 Philemon must welcome back his…
9 Nov 2022 – The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
9 Nov 2022 – The 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…
8 Nov 2022 – Tuesday of Week 32
8 Nov 2022 – Tuesday of Week 32 1st Reading: Titus 2:1-8, 11-14 Guidelines for living, while awaiting the return of our Saviour As for you, teach what is consistent with sound doctrine. Tell the older men to be temperate, serious, prudent, and sound in faith, in love, and in…
7 November 2022 – Monday of Week 32
7 November 2022 – Monday of Week 32 Optional Memorial: St Willibrord, 658-739, born in Northumbria, studied at Rath Melsigi, Co Carlow, went with 11 companions to evangelise Frisia, made bishop of Utrecht. 1st Reading: Titus 1:1-9 The blessings of the faith and the qualities of a church leader From…
6 Nov 2022 – 32nd Sunday (C)
6 Nov 2022 – 32nd Sunday (C) All the Saints of Ireland is not celebrated this year. (1) 2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14 Martyrdom of the brothers and their mother: faith in the resurrection Seven brothers and their mother were arrested and were being compelled by the king, under torture with…
5 November 2022 – Saturday of Week 31
5 November 2022 – Saturday of Week 31 Optional Memorial; St Martin de Porres, 1579-1639, renowned for caring for the sick and his devotion to the Eucharist. 1st Reading: Philippians 4:10-19 Thanks to the community who helped Paul in his imprisonment I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at…
Presider’s Page for 6 November (32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 6 November (32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time) At this time of remembrance, our dead are often in our minds. Today’s readings challenge us to believe in eternal life after death. We worship God who sustains us in this life and promises us a share in the resurrection….
4 November 2022 – Friday of Week 31
4 November 2022 – Friday of Week 31 Optional Memorial: St Charles Borromeo, 1538-1584, patron of catechists and seminarians. 1st Reading: Philippians 3:17—4:1 We should be guided by the cross of Christ, because our citizenship is in heaven Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live…
3 November 2022 – Thursday of Week 31
3 November 2022 – Thursday of Week 31 Optional Memorial: St Malachy (Armagh, Down and Connor), 1094-1148, a reformer, died in the arms of Bernard at Clairvaux, where he is buried. 1st Reading: Philippians 3:3-8 We who are the real people of the circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of…
2 November 2022 – Wednesday – All Souls
2 November 2022 – Wednesday – All Souls (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…
1 November 2022 – Tuesday – All Saints
1 November 2022 – Tuesday – 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 2022 – Monday of Week 31
31 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 31 Optional Memorial: Bl Dominic Collins (Cloyne), c1566-1602. A Jesuit Brother who was hanged in Youghal on 31 October 1602. 1st Reading: Philippians 2:1-4 Setting aside rivalry or conceit, all should be generous to others If there is any encouragement in Christ, any…
30 October 2022 – 31st Sunday (C)
30 October 2022 – 31st Sunday (C) (1) Wisdom 11:22-12:2 Wisdom makes us humble in God’s presence In your sight, Lord, the whole world is like a grain of dust that tips the scales, like a drop of morning dew falling on the ground. Yet you are merciful to all,…
Presider’s Page for 30 October (30th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 30 October (30th Sunday in Ordinary Time) Zacchaeus is the star of today’s Gospel, the man who has been called ‘everybody’s favourite underdog’. Zacchaeus took Jesus at his word and changed his life. We worship God, whose mercy for all people never fails, a mercy on which…
29 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 30
29 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 30 Optional Memorial: St Colman, from Kilmacduagh, Galway; Studied on Oileán Árainn and founded two churches on Inis Mór. 1st Reading: Philippians 1:18-26 Paul takes everything in stride, so that he may preach the Gospel What does it matter, except that Christ be…
28 October 2022 – Friday – Ss Simon and Jude, Apostles
28 October 2022 – Friday – Ss 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…
27 Oct 2022 – Thursday of Week 30 Optional Memorial: St Otteran, d 548, patron of Waterford city and diocese. 1st Reading: Ephesians 6:10-20 Putting on the armour of God, for the struggle of life Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the…
26 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 30
26 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 30 1st Reading: Ephesians 6:1-9 Practical advice for parents and children, masters and servants Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “honour your father and mother”. This is the first commandment accompanied with a promise: “so that it may…
25 Oct 2022 – Tuesday of Week 30
25 Oct 2022 – Tuesday of Week 30 Memorial (Cloyne, Cork and Ross): Bl Thaddeus MacCarthy, 1455-1492. 1st Reading: Ephesians 5:21-33 Love between spouses mirrors Christ’s love for the church Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, be subject to your husbands as you are to…
24 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 30
24 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 30 Optional Memorial: St Anthony Mary Claret, 1807-1870, founded the Claretians in Spain. 1st Reading: Ephesians 4:32—5:8 Be kind to one another, forgiving as our merciful Father is Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven…
23 October 2022 – 30th Sunday (C)
23 October 2022 – 30th Sunday (C) (1) Sirach/ Ecclesiasticus 35:15-22 The prayer of the humble will reach to the clouds The Lord is the judge, and with him there is no partiality. He will not show partiality to the poor; but he will listen to the prayer of one…
Presider’s Page for 23 October (30th Sunday – Mission Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 23 October (30th Sunday – Mission Sunday) The Gospel story of the Pharisee and the tax collector is read on this year’s Mission Sunday. Those who are humble before God make the best witnesses to the Gospel: all Christians are called to share this mission. Penitential Rite: God…
22 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 29
22 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 29 Optional Memorial; St John Paul II, pope from 1978 to 2 April 2005. 1st Reading: Ephesians 4:7-16 The church led by apostles and evangelists, to teach and unify its members Each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s…
21 Oct 2022 – Friday of Week 29
21 Oct 2022 – Friday of Week 29 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 life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness,…
20 Oct 2022 – Thursday of Week 29
20 Oct 2022 – Thursday of Week 29 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 earth takes its name, praying that, according to the riches of his…
19 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 29
19 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 29 Optional Memorials: St John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, slain with six Jesuit companions in 1647/8. St Paul of the Cross, 1694-1775, founded the Passionists. 1st Reading: Ephesians 3:2-12 Paul preaches to the gentiles the rich mystery of Christ Surely you have…
18 October 2022 – Tuesday – St Luke, Evangelist
18 October 2022 – Tuesday – 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…
17 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 29
17 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 29 Memorial: St Ignatius of Antioch, martyred in Rome c107. 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…
16 October 2022 – 29th Sunday (C)
16 October 2022 – 29th Sunday (C) (1) Book of Exodus 17:8-13 When Moses prays with arms outstretched, God gives victory to his people Then Amalek came and fought with Israel at Rephidim. And Moses said to Joshua, “Choose some men for us and go out, fight with Amalek. Tomorrow…
Presider’s Page for 16 October (29th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 16 October (29th Sunday in Ordinary Time) If you want results, pray without ceasing, says Jesus. God will listen and help. Penitential Rite As we prepare ourselves for this celebration, let us call to mind God’s generous mercy (pause): Lord Jesus, you healed the sick: Lord, have…
15 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 28
15 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 28 Memorial: St Teresa of Avila, 1515-1582, doctor of the Church, established Carmelite convents under a reformed rule. Patron of lacemakers and headache sufferers. 1st Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23 May God enlighten your vision to see the hope you are called to I have…
14 Oct 2022 – Friday of Week 28
14 Oct 2022 – Friday of Week 28 Optional Memorial: St Callistus 1, pope in 217, died in 222. 1st Reading Ephesians 1:11-14 We are sealed with the Holy Spirit, the down-payment God has made to his people In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according…
13 Oct 2022 – Thursday of Week 28
13 Oct 2022 – Thursday of Week 28 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 God, To the saints who are in Ephesus and are faithful in Christ…
12 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 28
12 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 28 1st Reading: Galatians 5:18-25 The symptoms or fruits of the flesh contrasted with those of the spirit If you are led by the Spirit, you are not subject to the law. Now the works of the flesh are obvious: fornication, impurity, licentiousness,…
11 Oct 2022 – Tuesday of Week 28
11 Oct 2022 – Tuesday of Week 28 Optional Memorials: St John XX111, pope, 1881-1963. Called the Second Vatican Council. St Canice (Kilkenny), c527-603. 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,…
10 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 28
10 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 28 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 Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and the other by a free woman. One, the…
9 October 2022 – 28th Sunday (C)
9 October 2022 – 28th Sunday (C) (1) 2 Kings 5:14-17 When Naaman heeds Elisha and washes in the Jordan he is cured Naaman the leper went down and immersed himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God; his flesh was restored like…
Presider’s Page for 9 October (28th Sun in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 9 October (28th Sun in Ordinary Time) The Gospel gives the story of the ten lepers, of whom only one came back to thank Jesus. We praise and thank God who continues to do great things for all peoples. Penitential Rite In the spirit of thankfulness, let…
8 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 27
8 Oct 2022 – 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….
7 Oct 2022 – Our Lady of the Rosary
7 Oct 2022 – 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…
6 Oct 2022 – Thursday of Week 27
6 Oct 2022 – Thursday of Week 27 Optional Memorial: St Bruno, 1033-1101, founded the Carthusians at La Grande Chartreuse. 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…
5 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 27
5 Oct 2022 – Wednesday of Week 27 Optional Memorial: St Faustina, 1905-1938, inspired Divine Mercy movement. 1st Reading: Galatians 2:1-2, 7-14 Paul openly corrects Peter for compromising the principle of the equality of all believers Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus…
4 Oct 2022 – Tuesday of Week 27
4 Oct 2022 – Tuesday of Week 27 Memorial: St Francis of Assisi, 1181-1226, patron of ecologists. 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…
3 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 27
3 Oct 2022 – Monday of Week 27 1st Reading: Galatians 1:6-12 Paul’s Gospel message came to him directly from the Lord I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel, not that…
2 Oct 2022 – 27th Sunday (C)
2 Oct 2022 – 27th Sunday (C) (1) Habbakuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4 When the prophet mourns injustice, God promises a day of justice O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not listen? Or cry to you “Violence!” and you will not save? Why do you make…
Presider’s Page for 2 October (27th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 2 October (27th Sunday in Ordinary Time) October 1 2022 The Spirit of God lives in us, inspiring us and guarding us. In the Spirit, we worship our creator and entrust ourselves to the Lord’s loving care. • Ireland’s ‘Day for Life’ is celebrated today, with the…
1 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 26
1 Oct 2022 – Saturday of Week 26 Memorial: St Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Lisieux, The Little Flower, doctor of the Church, died on 30 Sept 1897, patron of missions, florists, aviators and France. 1st Reading: Job 42:1-3, 5-6, 12-17 After Job stops complaining, he is blessed more than…
30 Sept 2022 – Friday of Week 26
30 Sept 2022 – Friday of Week 26 Memorial: St Jerome, 340-420, translated the Bible into Latin, known as the Vulgate, patron of librarians 1st Reading: Job 38:1, 12-21; 40:3-5 Only if Job is himself divine can he challenge God’s ways Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind:…
29 Sept 2022 – The Holy Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael
29 Sept 2022 – 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 2022 – Wednesday of Week 26
28 Sept 2022 – Wednesday of Week 26 Optional Memorials: St Wenceslaus, 905-25, patron of brewers; St Lawrence Ruiz and Companions, martyred in Nagasaki from 1633-37. 1st Reading: Job 9:1-12, 14-16 God’s omnipotent control of the universe and his mysterious guidance of life When Bildad had finished speaking Job answered:…
27 Sept 2022 – Tuesday of Week 26
27 Sept 2022 – Tuesday of Week 26 Memorial: St Vincent de Paul, 1580-1660, founder of the Vincentians and Daughters of Charity. Patron of all charitable works. 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…
26 Sept 2-22 – Monday of Week 26
26 Sept 2-22 – Monday of Week 26 Optional Memorial: Ss Cosmas and Damian, early Syrian martyrs, patrons of physicians. 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 also came among them. The…
25 Sept 2022 – 26th Sunday (C)
25 Sept 2022 – 26th Sunday (C) (1) Amos 6:1, 4-7 Amos laments the wealthy who care nothing for the poor Alas for those who are at ease in Zion, and for those who feel secure on Mount Samaria. Alas for those who lie on beds of ivory, and lounge…
Presider’s Page for 25 September (26th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Day for Migrants & Refugees)
Today’s readings remind us that God is on the side of the poor, defending their rights. Providentially, today is also the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Penitential Rite We gather to praise God’s justice and beg God’s mercy, as we call to mind our sins: (pause) You raise the…
24 Sept 2022 – Saturday of Week 25
24 Sept 2022 – Saturday of Week 25 1st Reading: Qohelet 11:9,12:8 A wise man’s lament about the encroachments of old age Rejoice, young man, while you are young, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Follow the inclination of your heart and the desire…
23 Sept 2022 – Friday of Week 25
23 Sept 2022 – Friday of Week 25 Memorial: St Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio); (St Eunan (Adomnán) in Raphoe). 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 for every matter under heaven: a time…
22 Sept 2022 – Thursday of Week 25
22 Sept 2022 – Thursday of Week 25 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 all the toil at which they toil under the sun? A generation…
21 Sept 22 – Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist
21 Sept 22 – 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 2022 – Tuesday of Week 25
20 Sept 2022 – Tuesday of Week 25 Memorial: St Andrew Kim Tae-gõn, the first Korean priest, and Paul Chõng Ha-Sang, a catechist, and 101 others were martyred during the persecutions in Korea, 1839-67. 1st Reading: Proverbs (21:1-6, 10-13 Advice about self-control from Solomon’s proverbs The king’s heart is a…
19 Sept 2022 – Monday of Week 25
19 Sept 2022 – Monday of Week 25 Optional Memorial: St Januarius, martyred in Naples in 305 with six companions. 1st Reading: Proverbs (3:27-34 Practical guidelines for dealing justly with one’s neighbour Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to…
18 Sept 2022 – 25th Sunday (C) (1) Amos 8:4-7 God is concerned for justice and fair play Hear this, you that trample on the needy, and bring to ruin the poor of the land, saying, “When will the new moon be over so that we may sell grain; and…
Presider’s Page for 18 September (25th Sunday in OrdinaryTime)
Presider’s Page for 18 September (25th Sunday in OrdinaryTime) September 16 2022 We gather to worship the Lord of glory, asking for help to be God’s servants before all else. Penitential Rite Before we listen to God’s challenging Word, let us call to mind our sins, relying on the divine…
Saturday 17 Sept 2022 – Week 24
Saturday 17 Sept 2022 – Week 24 Optional Memorials: St Hildegard of Bingen, 1098-1179, musician, composer, writer, mystic and doctor of the Church; St Robert Bellarmine, 1542-1621, Jesuit, cardinal and patron of catechists. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:35-37, 42-49 What is sown and dies rises to new, incorruptible life. Our…
Friday 16 Sept 2022 – Week 24
Friday 16 Sept 2022 – Week 24 Memorial: Ss Cornelius and Cyprian 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 Belief in the Lord’s resurrection is not superfluous, but a vital basis for hope If Christ is preached as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no…
Thurs 15 Sept 2022 – Our Lady of Sorrows
Thurs 15 Sept 2022 – 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…
14 Sept 2022 – The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
14 Sept 2022 – 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 2022 – Tuesday of Week 24
13 Sept 2022 – Tuesday of Week 24 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31 Many gifts, all at the service of the community, the body of Christ Just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so…
12 Sept 2022 – Monday of Week 24
12 Sept 2022 – Monday of Week 24 Optional Memorials: The Holy Name of Mary; St Ailbe: died in 528. Founded a monastery at Emly. 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…
Presiders page for 11 September (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presiders page for 11 September (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time) September 9 2022 The mercy of God has no end; even humans who disfigure God’s beautiful creation can turn back to God’s ways and find mercy. We continue to mark Creationtide all through September, and we gather for worship, drawn…
11 Sept 2022 – 24th Sunday (C)
11 Sept 2022 – 24th Sunday (C) (1) Exodus 32:7-11, 13-14 When the people worshipped idols, Moses won God’s pardon 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 quick…
10 Sept 2022 – Saturday of Week 23
10 Sept 2022 – Saturday of Week 23 Optional Memorial: St Peter Claver SJ, born in Catalonia in 1580, worked in Colombia among the slaves at a slave trade centre until his death in 1654. He is reputed to have baptised more than 300,000 people. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:14-22…
9 Sept 2022 – Friday of Week 23
9 Sept 2022 – Friday of Week 23 Optional Memorial: St Ciarán, borin in Roscommon circa 512. Founded a monastery in Clonmacnois in 545. Died aged 33 while it was still being built. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-27 Paul’s total dedication to his preaching ministry If I preach the…
8 Sept 2022 – The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
8 Sept 2022 – 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…
7 Sept 2022 – Wednesday of Week 23
7 Sept 2022 – Wednesday of Week 23 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 7:25-31 Christians are free to marry or not, but remember anyway that this world is passing About the unmarried, I have no command of the Lord, but I give my opinion as one who by the Lord’s mercy…
6 Sept 2022 – Tuesday of Week 23
6 Sept 2022 – Tuesday of Week 23 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 A people saved by Jesus must have high standards of love and respect When one of you has a grievance against a brother, does he dare go to law before the unrighteous instead of the saints? Do…
5 Sept 2022 – Monday of Week 23
5 Sept 2022 – Monday of Week 23 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 5:1-8 Applying church discipline to a scandalous case (incest) It is actually reported that there is immorality among you, and of a kind that is not found even among pagans; for a man is living with his father’s…
Presider’s Page for 4 September (23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 4 September (23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time) September 3 2022 The Season of Creation is marked throughout the Christian world from 1 September to 4 October. It celebrates the joy of creation as well as encouraging awareness-raising initiatives to protect the natural environment. The theme for the…
4 Sept 2022 – 23rd Sunday (C)
4 Sept 2022 – 23rd Sunday (C) Theme: To share the vision of Jesus we need detachment from our possessions. Without the spirit of detachment we cannot be full disciples. (1) Wisdom 9:13-18 God gives us all the knowledge we need to be saved For who can learn the counsel…
3 Sept 2022 – Saturday of Week 22
3 Sept 2022 – Saturday of Week 22 Memorial: St Gregory the Great, 540-604. Roman noble who became a monk and pope. 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…
2 Sept 2022 – Friday of Week 22
2 Sept 2022 – 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…
1 Sept 2022 – Thursday of Week 22
1 Sept 2022 – Thursday of Week 22 World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:18-23 All things are yours, you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age,…
31 Aug 2022 – Wednesday of Week 22
31 Aug 2022 – Wednesday of Week 22 Optional Memorial: St Aidan of Lindisfarne, of Irish descent, monk of Iona, honoured in Northumbria. Died in 651. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 Avoiding envy and strife; collaboration should marks God’s co-workers Brethren, I could not address you as spiritual men, but…
30 Aug 2022 – Tuesday of Week 22
30 Aug 2022 – Tuesday of Week 22 Optional Memorial: St Fiacre, Irish missionary associated with Normandy, who settled in a hermitage in Breuil, where he died circa 670. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:10-16 If taught by the Spirit of God we can judge rightly and know our inmost self…
29 Aug 2022 – The Passion of Saint John the Baptist
29 Aug 2022 – 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…
Presider’s Page for 28 August (22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 28 August (22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time) Who gets the places of honour in God’s house, the pushy or the humble? The Word of God this Sunday teaches us that the humble are the ones who find favour with God. • The Season of Creation is marked…
28 Aug 2022 – 22nd Sunday, Cycle C
28 Aug 2022 – 22nd Sunday, Cycle C (1) Sirach/ Ecclesiasticus 3:17-20, 28-29 A person attentive to God will never reject wisdom My child, perform your tasks with humility; then you will be loved by those whom God accepts. The greater you are, the more you must humble yourself; so…
27 Aug 2022 – Saturday of Week 21
27 Aug 2022 – Saturday of Week 21 Memorial: St Monica, 332-387. Mother of St Augustine. Patron saint of mothers. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 God chose the world’s despised, so that our wisdom, justice, and holiness would centre on Jesus For consider your call, brethren; not many of you…
26 Aug 2022 – Friday of Week 21
26 Aug 2022 – Friday of Week 21 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:17-25 The mystery of the cross is wiser and stronger than us My brothers and sisters, Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ…
25 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 21
25 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 21 Optional Memorials: St Louis of France, 1214-1270. Patron of French monarchy and military, and barbers. St Joseph Calasanz, 1556-1648. Patron of Catholic schools. 1st Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 Paul acknowledges the Corinthians’ gifts and prays for them Paul, called by the will…
24 Aug 2022 – St Bartholomew, Apostle
24 Aug 2022 – St 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 2022 – Tuesday of Week 21
23 Aug 2022 – Tuesday of Week 21 Optional Memorials: St Eugene (Derry, feast); St Rose of Lima 1st Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 14-17 Do not be unduly excited about the second coming of the Lord As to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together…
22 Aug 2022 – Our Lady Queen and Mother
22 Aug 2022 – Our Lady Queen and Mother First Reading: Is 9: 1-6 But 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 of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will…
Presider’s Page for 21 August (21st Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 21 August (21st Sunday in Ordinary Time) August 20 2022 Our God is a gracious God, who throws open the doors to the Kingdom to all of humanity. Penitential Rite We praise and worship this generous God of ours: even our sins will not deter God’s forgivensss:…
21 Aug 2022 – 21st Sunday (C)
21 Aug 2022 – 21st Sunday (C) The value of a disciplined life is little mentioned in a permissive society. But the theme of the “narrow door” is there to make us think. (1) Isaiah 66:18-21 The returning Jews bring non-Jews to join in the worship of God The Lord…
20 Aug 2022 – Saturday of Week 20
20 Aug 2022 – Saturday of Week 20 Memorial: St Bernard, 1090-1153, Cistercian, Abbot of Clairvaux, Doctor of the Church, patron of Gibraltar and beekeepers. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 43:1-7 The glory of the Lord returns to dwell in the Jerusalem temple Then he brought me to the gate, the gate…
19 Aug 2022 – Friday of Week 20
19 Aug 2022 – Friday of Week 20 Optional Memorial: St John Eudes, 1601-80, French. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 37:1-14 The valley full of dry bones will be revived The hand of the Lord came upon me, and he brought me out by the spirit of the Lord and set me…
18 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 20
18 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 20 1st Reading: Ezekiel 36:23-28 The exiles return to their land, purified and enabled to keep God’s law I will sanctify my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them; and the nations shall know…
17 Aug 2022 – Wednesday of Week 20
17 Aug 2022 – Wednesday of Week 20 Memorial: Our Lady of Knock 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…
16 Aug 2022 – Tuesday of Week 20
16 Aug 2022 – Tuesday of Week 20 Optional Memorial; St Stephen of Hungary 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 me: Mortal, say to the prince of Tyre, Thus says the Lord God:…
Mon 15 Aug 2022 – The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Mon 15 Aug 2022 – 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…
14 Aug 202 – 20th Sunday (C)
14 Aug 202 – 20th Sunday (C) (1) Jeremiah 38:4-6, 8-10 Jeremiah is dropped into a well to die, but is saved by a foreigner The officials said to the king, “This Jeremiah ought to be put to death, because he is discouraging the soldiers who are left in this…
13 Aug 2022 – Saturday of Week 19
13 Aug 2022 – Saturday of Week 19 Optional Memorials: Ss Pontian and Hippolytus; St Facthna (Ross, feast), founder of Ross Carbery monastery, West Cork. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 18:1-10, 13, 30-32 Each individual is responsible to God, for his or her own actions The word of the Lord came to…
Presider’s Page for 14 August (20th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 14 August (20th Sunday in Ordinary Time) Following Jesus may not bring us happiness in this life, but we are challenged to follow him nevertheless. We come together to worship our gracious God and to ask for help in our Christian life this week. Penitential Rite We…
12 Aug 2022 – Friday of Week 19
12 Aug 2022 – Friday of Week 19 Optional Memorials: St Jane de Chantel (Congregation of the Visitation); St Muredach (Killala, feast); St Attracta (Achonry, feast); St Lelia (Liadain). 1st Reading: Ezekiel 16:1-15 Israel is like a baby girl, neglected but later espoused and loved by God The word of…
11 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 19
11 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 19 Memorial: St Clare, 1193-1253, founder of the Poor Clares. 1st Reading: Ezekiel 12:1-12 Ezekiel mimes going into exile, as a warning to the people The word of the Lord came to me: Mortal, you are living in the midst of a rebellious…
10 Aug 2022 – St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr
10 Aug 2022 – St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr Readings: 2 Cor 9:6-10; Ps 111:1-2, 5-9, R/ v5. John 12: 24-26 St Lawrence, Deacon, Martyr He died at Rome on this day in 258, four days after Saint Sixtus II, with whom he was closely associated. Honoured for his almsgiving….
9 Aug 2022 – Tues – Feast of Sister Teresa Benedicta (1891-1942) (Edith Stein)
9 Aug 2022 – Tues – Feast of Sister Teresa Benedicta (1891-1942) (Edith Stein), Patron of Europe Also St Nathy (Achonry), St Felim (Kilmore). 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,…
8 Aug 2022 – Monday of Week 19
8 Aug 2022 – Monday of Week 19 Memorial: St Dominic, 1170-1221, founder of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans). 1st Reading: Ezekiel 1:2-5, 24-28 The vision of the four cherubim, bearing God’s glory on the wing On the fifth day of the month (it was the fifth year of the…
7 Aug 2022 – 19th Sunday (C)
7 Aug 2022 – 19th Sunday (C) (1) Wisdom 18:6-9 Learn from the Exodus: God will save us from all dangers That night was made known beforehand to our ancestors, so that they might rejoice in sure knowledge of the oaths in which they trusted. The deliverance of the righteous…
Presider’s Page for 7 August 2022 (19th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Presider’s Page for 7 August (19th Sunday in Ordinary Time) August 5 2022 We are challenged by today’s Gospel to stand ready for our Master’s return, in triumph at the end of time, or more immediately, in the least of his brothers and sisters. We gather to worship God who…
Sat 6 Aug 2022 – The Transfiguration of the Lord
Sat 6 Aug 2022 – The Transfiguration of the Lord Theme: Three apostles were privileged to witness the inner life of Christ, revealed to them in splendour on 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 2022 – Friday of Week 18
5 Aug 2022 – Friday of Week 18 Optional Memorial: Dedication of the Basilica of St Mary Major. This basilica, erected by Pope Sixtus III (432-440) on the Esquiline Hill in Rome, in honour of the Holy Mother of God, is the oldest church in the west dedicated to the…
4 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 18
4 Aug 2022 – Thursday of Week 18 Memorial: St John Mary Vianney – Curé d’Ars 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 Lord and be forgiven their sins The days are surely…
3 Aug 2022 – Wednesday of Week 18
3 Aug 2022 – Wednesday of Week 18 1st Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-7 Jeremiah foretells the joyful reunion of Israel’s northern tribes with Jerusalem At that time, says the Lord, I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they shall be my people. Thus says the Lord:…
2 Aug 2022 – Tuesday of Week 18
2 Aug 2022 – Tuesday of Week 18 Optional Memorial: St Eusebius of Vercelli 1st Reading: Jeremiah 30:1-2, 12-15, 18-22 After the exile the Israelites will return home to their land The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: Write in…
1 Aug 2022 – Monday of Week 18
1 Aug 2022 – Monday of Week 18 Optional Memorial: St Alphonsus Ligouri, 1696-1787, founder of the Reds and popular preacher. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 28:1-17 By word and gesture Jeremiah predicts the end of his people’s exile In that same year, at the beginning of the reign of King Zedekiah…
1 Aug 2022 – Monday of Week 18
1 Aug 2022 – Monday of Week 18 1st Reading: Jeremiah 28:1-17 By word and gesture Jeremiah predicts the end of his people’s exile In that same year, at the beginning of the reign of King Zedekiah of Judah, in the fifth month of the fourth year, the prophet Hananiah…
31 July 2022 – 18th Sunday (C)
31 July 2022 – 18th Sunday (C) The Rich Fool stands as a warning against clinging to our comforts while knowing that others starve. The heartless economic model proposed by globalised capitalism and our accumulative society adds to the world’s inequalities and tensions. (1) Ecclesiastes 1:2; 2:21-23 “Vanity of vanities!”…
30 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 17
30 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 17 Optional Memorial: St Peter Chrysologus, +450, Bishop of Ravenna, famous for preaching. 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…
29 July 2022 – Friday of Week 17
29 July 2022 – Friday of Week 17 Memorial: Ss Martha, Mary and Lazarus – Martha and her siblings Lazarus and Mary lived in the village of Bethany near Jerusalem. She welcomed Jesus and the disciples into her home, and was witness to the raising of her brother, Lazarus. 1st…
28 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 17
28 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 17 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: “Come, go down to the potter’s house, and there I will let you hear my words.” So…
27 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 17
27 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 17 1st Reading: Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21 Jeremiah’ lament and the Lord’s reply Woe is me, my mother, that you ever bore me, a man of strife and contention to the whole land! I have not lent, nor have I borrowed, yet all of…
26 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 17
26 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 17 Memorial: Ss Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. (See Prayer for Grandparents below). 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…
25 July 2022 – Feast of St James, Apostle
25 July 2022 – Feast of 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…
24 July 2022 – 17th Sunday (C)
24 July 2022 – 17th Sunday (C) (1) Genesis 18:20-32 Abraham intercedes and haggles with God to spare the city of Sodom The Lord said, “How great is the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah and how very grave their sin! I must go down and see whether they have done…
23 July 2022 – Feast of St Bridget of Sweden, Patron of Europe
23 July 2022 – Feast of St 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…
22 July 2022 – Feast of St Mary Magdalene
22 July 2022 – Feast of 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…
21 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 16
21 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 16 Optional Memorial: St Lawrence of Brindisi, 1559-1619, a Counter-Reformation man. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 2:1-2; 7-8; 12-13. They dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water The word of the Lord came to me, saying: Go and proclaim in the hearing…
20 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 16
20 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 16 Optional Memorial: St Apollinaris, Bishop of Classis, martyred in the second century. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10 The prophet’s vocation to speak God’s word The words of Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, of the priests who were in Anathoth in the land of…
19 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 16
19 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 16 1st Reading: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20 Israel’s God is always faithful and forgiving 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 Bashan…
18 July 2022 – Monday of Week 16
18 July 2022 – Monday of Week 16 1st Reading: Micah 6:1-4, 6-8 Micah’s famous summary of the Torah: on walking humbly with your God Hear what the Lord says: ‘Rise, plead your case before the mountains, and let the hills hear your voice.’ Hear, you mountains, the controversy of…
17 July 2022 – 16th Sunday (C)
17 July 2022 – 16th Sunday (C) (1) Genesis 18:1-10 Welcoming the strangers, Abraham was really in the presence of God The Lord appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day. He looked up and…
16 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 15
16 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 15 Optional Memorial: Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Readings: Zec 2:14-17; Ps Lk 1:46-55, R/ v49; Mt 12:46-50. 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…
15 July 2022 – Friday of Week 15
15 July 2022 – Friday 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 38:1-6, 21-22 King Hezekiah is cured of illness; as a sign of full health God turns the…
14 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 15
14 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 15 Optional Memorial: St Camillus de Lellis, 1550-1614, a rough tempered gambling soldier who was converted, priested and worked with the sick. Patron of nurses, hospitals and the sick. 1st Reading: Isaiah 26:7-9, 12, 16-19 A prayer of quiet confidence, awaiting the dawn…
13 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 15
13 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 15 Optional Memorial: St Henry, 973-1024, Duke of Bavaria, later emperor – reformer. 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,…
12 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 15
12 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 15 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 of Judah, King Rezin of Aram and King Pekah son of Remaliah…
11 July 2022 – Feast of St Benedict, Patron of Europe
11 July 2022 – Feast of St Benedict, 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 2022 – 15th Sunday (C)
10 July 2022 – 15th Sunday (C) (1) Deuteronomy 30:10-14 To God’s chosen people the commandments are not a burden but a privelege Moses said to the people: “When you obey the Lord your God by observing his commandments and decrees that are written in this book of the law,…
9 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 14
9 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: Ss Augustine Zhao Rong (+1815) and 119 Companions, martyred in China over several centuries. 1st Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8 While praying in the temple, Isaiah is called to his great prophetic ministry In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw…
8 July 2022 – Friday of Week 14
8 July 2022 – Friday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Kilian, born in Mullagh, Co Cavan (Kilmore). Became the apostle of Thuringia and eastern Franconia. Put to death in 689. Strong devotion to him in Würzburg, where his remains lie, and throughout Bavaria. 1st Reading: Hosea 14:2-9 A call…
7 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 14
7 July 2022 – Thursday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Maelruain (Maolruain), founded the monastery of Tallaght, Dublin in 774 – part of the Célí Dé reform movement. 1st Reading: Hosea 11:1-4, 8-9 In tender imagery, God declares motherly care for his beloved child, Israel When Israel was a…
6 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 14
6 July 2022 – Wednesday of Week 14 Optional Memorials: St Maria Goretti; St Monnine of…
5 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 14
5 July 2022 – Tuesday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Anthony Zaccaria 1st Reading: Hosea 8:4-7, 11-13 As penalty for their sins, they shall return to slavery in Egypt They made kings, but not through me; they set up princes, but without my knowledge. With their silver and gold…
4 July 2022 – Monday of Week 14
4 July 2022 – Monday of Week 14 Optional Memorial: St Elizabeth of Portugal 1st Reading: Hosea 2:16-18, 21-22 Israel will again show loving fidelity to her God On that day, says the Lord, you will call me, “My husband.” For I will remove the names of the Baals from…
3 July 2022 – 14th Sunday (C)
3 July 2022 – 14th Sunday (C) (1) Isaiah 66:10-14 After the Exile, Jerusalem is like a mother nursing her child at the breast Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice with her in joy, all you who mourn over her, that you…
Presider’s Page for 3 July (14th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
We gather to praise God’s faithfulness, and to ask for grace in the work we’re called to do. Penitential Rite To prepare ourselves to celebrate the Mass, let us call to mind our sins: (pause) You were sent to heal the contrite: Lord, have mercy. You came to call sinners:…
2 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 13
2 July 2022 – Saturday of Week 13 1st Reading: Amos 9:11-15 The Davidic dynasty will be restored, and the land will be blessed with fertility On that day I will raise up the booth of David that is fallen, and repair its breaches, and raise up its ruins, and…
1 July 2022 – Friday of Week 13
1 July 2022 – Friday of Week 13 Memorial: St Oliver Plunkett 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, and bring to ruin the poor of the land, saying, “When will…
29 June 2022- Ss Peter and Paul – Apostles
29 June 2022- Ss 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 2022 – Tuesday of Week 13
28 June 2022 – Tuesday of Week 13 Memorial: St Irenaeus 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…
27 June 2022 – Monday of Week 13
27 June 2022 – Monday of Week 13 Optional Memorial: St Cyril of Alexandria 1st Reading: Amos 2:6-10, 13-16 Israel is condemned for neglecting the poor and the defenceless Thus says the Lord: For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment; because they sell…
26 June 2022 – 13th Sunday (C)
26 June 2022 – 13th Sunday (C) (1) 1 Kings 19:16, 19-21 Elisha immediately answers his call; leaving all he follows Elijah The Lord said to Elijah, “You shall anoint Jehu son of Nimshi as king over Israel; and you shall anoint Elisha son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah as prophet…
25 June 2022 – The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Sat 25 June 2022 – The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary First Reading. Is 61:9-11 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 whom the Lord has blessed. I will greatly…
24 June 2022 – The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
24 June 2022 – Sacred Heart, Year C 1st Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-16 The Lord God will search for His sheep and pasture them For thus says the Lord God: I myself will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. As shepherds seek out their flocks when they are…
23 June 2022 – Birth of Saint John the Baptist
23 June 2022 – Birth of Saint John the Baptist Note: The Solemnity of the Birth of St John the Baptist is observed on 23 June this year as the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated on 24 June. 1st Reading: Isaiah 49:1-6 The Lord called me…
22 June 2022 – Wednesday of Week 12
22 June 2022 – Wednesday of Week 12 Optional Memorials: St Paulinus; St John Fisher and St Thomas More 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…
21 June 2022 – Tuesday of Week 12
21 June 2022 – Tuesday of Week 12 Memorial: St Aloysius Gonzaga 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…
20 June 2022 – Monday of Week 12
Monday of Week 12 Memorial: The Irish Martyrs- Seventeen Irish men and women, cleric and lay, were martyred for their faith between 1579 and 1654. 1st Reading: 2 Kings 17:5-8, 13-15, 18 Exile of the ten northern tribes of Israel, for not listening to the prophets Then the king of…
19 June 2022 – Corpus Christi – The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Corpus Christi, Year C 1st Reading: Genesis 14:18-20 Melchizedek brought bread and wine and pronounced a blessing Melchizedek king of Salem brought bread and wine; he was a priest of God Most High. He pronounced this blessing: ‘Blessed be Abraham by God Most High, creator of heaven and earth, and…
18 June 2022 – Saturday of Week 11
Saturday of Week 11 1st Reading: 2 Chronicles 24:17-25 King Joash murders the son of the priest who had saved his life After Jehoiada’s death the officials of Judah came and did obeisance to king Joash and the king listened to their advice. They abandoned the house of the Lord,…
17 June 2022 – Friday of Week 11
Friday of Week 11 1st Reading: 2 Kings 11:1-4, 9-18, 20 The life of prince Joash is saved from Athaliah’s fury When Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, saw that her son was dead, she set out to destroy all of the royal family. But Jehosheba, King Joram’s daughter and Ahaziah’s…
16 June 2022 – Thursday of Week 11
Thursday of Week 11 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 few in number. By the word of the Lord he shut up the heavens, and also…
15 June 2022 – Wednesday of Week 11
Wednesday of Week 11 1st Reading: 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14 Elijah is carried up to heaven in a chariot of fire When the Lord was about to take Elijah up to heaven by a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here;…
14 June 2022 – Tuesday of Week 11
Tuesday of Week 11 Optional Memorial: St Davnet 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…
13 June 2022 – Monday of Week 11
Monday of Week 11 Memorial: St Anthony of Padua 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…
12 June 2022 – The Most Holy Trinity
Holy Trinity, Year C 1st Reading: Proverbs (8:22-31 Wisdom is the first-born of creation The Lord created me at the beginning of his work, the first of his acts of long ago. Ages ago I was set up, at the first, before the beginning of the earth. When there were…
11 June 2022 – St Barnabas, apostle
St Barnabas, apostle 1st Reading: Acts 11:21-26; 13:1-3 The zealous beginnings of the church in Antioch The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent…
10 June 2022 – Friday of Week 10
Friday of Week 10 Optional Memorial: St Ephrem 1st Reading: 1 Kings 19:9-16 Elijah’s encounter with God, at the cave on Mount Horeb 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, Elijah?” He…
09 June, 2022 – St Columba (Colum Cille)
09 June, 2022 St Columba (Colum Cille) abbot and missionary, secondary patron of Ireland 1st Reading: Romans 12:1-2, 9-13 Offer to God your spiritual worship I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your…
8 June 2022 – Wednesday of Week 10
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 go limping with two…
7 June 2022 – Tuesday of Week 10
Tuesday of Week 10 Optional Memorial: St Colman (Feast in Dromore) 1st Reading: 1 Kings 17:7-16 The widow of Zarephath provides for Elijah, so her own food-supply lasts to the end of the famine After a while the wadi dried up, because there was no rain in the land. Then…
6 June 2022 – Monday – The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church Feast, (Tuam) St Jarlath – a disciple of St Enda, founded a monastery in Tuam in the sixth century. 1st Reading: Genesis 3:9-15, 20 (or Acts 1: 12-14) Enmity between the serpent and the woman But the Lord God called to the man,…
5 June 2022 – Pentecost Sunday
Pentecost Sunday (Note choice for Second Reading and Gospel) 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…
4 June 2022 – Saturday of Week 7 of Easter
Saturday of Week 7 of Easter Memorial: Ss Charles Lwanga and Companions, – 22 Ugandan youths martyred in 1886. 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…
Presider’s Page for 5 June (Pentecost Sunday)
Presider’s Page for 5 June (Pentecost Sunday) June 3 2022 SONGS AT MASS: Come O Creator Spirit Blest; Veni Creator; Veni Sancti Spiritus (Taizé); Spirit of the Living God; Colours of Day…. Opening Comment Today is Pentecost Sunday, the 50th day of Easter. We celebrate the completion of the Easter…
3 June 2022 – Friday of Week 7 of Easter
Friday of Week 7 of Easter Memorial (Feast): St Kevin (Dublin) – settled in Glendalough where a monastic settlement grew, died in 618. 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…
2 June 2022 – Thursday of Week 7 of Easter
Thursday of Week 7 of Easter Optional Memorial: Ss Marcellinus and Peter, martyred under Diocletian in 303. 1st Reading: Acts 22:30; 23:6-11 Paul is cross-examined by the Jewish Council, in Jerusalem The next day, wanting to find out what Paul was being accused of by the Jews, [the Tribune] released…
1 June 2022 – Wednesday of Week 7 of Easter
Wednesday of Week 7 of Easter Memorial: St Justin, martyred c 165. Born in the Holy Land, settled in Rome. A defender of Christian belief and practice. 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…
31 May 2022 – Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
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 has turned away your…
30 May 2022 – Monday of Week 7 of Easter
Monday of Week 7 of Easter 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 and came to Ephesus, where he found some disciples. He said to them, “Did you receive…
29 May 2022 – The Ascension of the Lord
The Ascension of the Lord 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 when he was taken up…
28 May 2022 – Saturday of Week 6
Saturday of Week 6 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 there came to Ephesus a…
27 May 2022 – Friday of Week 6 of Easter
Friday of Week 6 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Augustine of Canterbury 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…
26 May 2022 – Thursday of Week 6 of Easter
Thursday of Week 6 of Easter Memorial: St Philip Neri, 1515-1595, founder of the Congregation of the Oratory. 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…
25 May 2022 – Wednesday of Week 6 of Easter
Wednesday of Week 6 of Easter Optional Memorials: St Bede the Venerable; St Gregory V11; St Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi. 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;…
24 May 2022 – Tuesday of Week 6 of Easter
Tuesday of Week 6 of Easter Also Day of Prayer for the Church in China – see bottom of page. 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…
21 May 2022 – Saturday of 5th Week of Easter
Saturday of Week 5 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 of a Jewish woman who was a believer; but his father was a Greek. He was…
Presider’s Page for 22 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter)
Presider’s Page for 22 May (Sixth Sunday of Easter) May 20 2022 SONGS AT MASS: Christ Be Beside Me; Spirit of the living God; Ag Críost an Síol ; Bring Flowers of the Rarest… Opening Comment The Ascension of Jesus will be celebrated next Sunday. As the Easter Season moves towards…
20 May 2022 – Friday of Week 5 of Easter
Friday of Week 5 of Easter 1st Reading: Acts 15:22-31 The decision of the Jerusalem Council goes out as a circular letter Then the apostles and the elders, with the consent of the whole church, decided to choose men from among their members and to send them to Antioch with…
19 May 2022 – Thursday 5th Week of Easter
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 I should be the…
15 May 2022 – 5th Sunday of Easter, Year C
15 May 2022 – 5th Sunday of Easter, Year C 1st Reading: Acts 14:21-27 Paul situates Jesus as the goal of the history of God’s people Then they asked for a king; and God gave them Saul son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, who reigned for…
14 May 2022 – St Matthias, Apostle
14 May 2022 – St 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 2022 – Friday of Week 4 of Easter
13 May 2022 – Friday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorial: Our Lady of Fatima (Is 61:9-11; Ps 44:11-12, 14-17, R/v 11; Lk11:27-18) 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…
12 May 2022 – Thursday of Week 4 of Easter
12 May 2022 – Thursday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorials: Ss Nereus and Achilleus; St Pancras 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 Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia. John, however, left…
11 May 2022 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Easter
11 May 2022 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Easter 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 Barnabas and Saul returned to Jerusalem and brought with them John, whose…
10 May 2022 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Easter
10 May 2022 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Easter Optional Memorials: St Comgall; St John of Avila 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 persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far…
9 May 2022 – Monday of Week 4 of Easter
9 May 2022 – 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…
8 May 2022 – 4th Sunday of Easter, Year C
8 May 2022 – 4th Sunday of Easter, Year C We celebrate Christ our Good Shepherd. Hearing his voice in the proclamation of the gospel, we follow him by living the gospel. 1st Reading: Acts 13:14, 43-52 Paul and Barnabas preach first to the Jews, then to the pagans They…
Presider’s Page for the 4th Sunday of Easter
Presider’s Page for the 4th 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. Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)…
7 May 2022 – Saturday of Week 3
7 May 2022 – 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…
6 May 2022 – Friday of Week 3 of Easter
6 May 2022 – 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…
5 May 2022- Thursday of Week 3 of Easter
5 May 2022- Thursday of Week 3 of Easter Optional Memorial: Bl Edmund Rice 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 the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.”…
4 May 2022 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Easter
4 May 2022 – 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…
Tuesday 3 May 2022 – Saints Philip and James, Apostles
Tuesday 3 May 2022 – 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…
Presider’s Page for 1 May (Third Sunday of Easter)
We’re two weeks into the Easter season now, but the Good News of the season continues to reverberate in the Liturgy. Joyfully we worship God who raised our Saviour from the dead.
01 May 2022 – 3rd Sunday of Easter, Year C
01 May 2022 – 3rd Sunday of Easter, Year C 1st Reading: Acts 5:27-32, 40-41 The apostles were put on trial for preaching the Gospel 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…
30 April 2022 – Saturday of Week 2
30 April 2022 – Saturday of Week 2 Optional Memorial: St Pius V, pope 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…
29 April 2022 – Saint Catherine of Siena
29 April 2022 – 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 2022 – Thursday of Week 2 of Easter
28 April 2022 – Thursday of Week 2 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Peter Chanel; St Louis Marie Grignion de Montfort 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…
27 April 2022 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Easter
27 April 2022 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Easter Optional Memorial: St Asicus, bishop, Elphin 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…
26 April 2022 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Easter
26 April 2022 – 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…
25 April 2022 – Feast of St Mark
25 April 2022 – Feast of St Mark 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…
Presider’s Page for 24 April (Second Sunday of Easter)
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 the 4th June, the fiftieth and final day of Easter.
24th April 2022 – 2nd Sunday of Easter, Year C
24th April 2022 – 2nd Sunday of Easter, Year C 1st Reading: Acts 5:12-16 High morale and healing influence of the early Christians Many signs and wonders were done among the people through the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon’s Portico. None of the rest dared to join…
23 April 2022 – Easter Saturday
23 April 2022 – 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…
22 April 2022 – Easter Friday
22 April 2022 – 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…
21 April 2022 – Easter Thursday
21 April 2022 – 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….
20 April 2022 – Easter Wednesday
20 April 2022 – 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…
19 April 2022 – Easter Tuesday
19 April 2022 – 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…
18 April 2022 – Easter Monday
18 April 2022 – 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,…
Presider’s Page for 17 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!
17th April 2022 – Easter Sunday (same for Years A, B, C)
17th April 2022 – Easter Sunday (same for 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…
Presider’s Page for Saturday 16 April (Easter Vigil)
We gather around the Easter candle this night, 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 what happened at the highpoints of our history.
Holy Saturday 16th April 2022 – Easter Vigil Readings
Holy Saturday 16th April 2022 – 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…
15th April 2022 – Good Friday
15th April 2022 – 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…
Presider’s Page for Thursday 14 April (Holy Thursday)
The liturgy that begins this Thursday evening 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 there to Calvary tomorrow, and from the tomb to resurrection and…
14th April 2022 – Holy Thursday
14th April 2022 – Holy Thursday Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper (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…
13th April 2022 – Wednesday of Holy Week
13th April 2022 – 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…
12th April 2022 – Tuesday of Holy Week
12th April 2022 – 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…
11th April 2022 – Monday of Holy Week
11th April 2022 – 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…
Presider’s Page for 10 April (Palm Sunday)
The events of Holy Week are laid out before us in this Sunday’s “Long Gospel”: as we gather, we prepare to enter in to the mystery of God’s love made visible in Jesus’ passion and death.
10th April 2022 – Palm Sunday, (Passion Sunday) Years A, B, C
10th April 2022 – Palm Sunday, (Passion Sunday) Years A, B, C (1) Isaiah 50:4-7 The Suffering Servant will 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. Morning by morning…
9th April 2022 – Saturday of Week 5 of Lent
9th April 2022 – Saturday of Week 5 of Lent (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 nations among which they have gone, and will gather them…
8th April 2022 – Friday of Week 5 of Lent
8th April 2022 – 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….
7th April 2022 – Thursday of Week 5 of Lent
7th April 2022 – 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…
6th April 2022 – Wednesday of Week 5 of Lent
6th April 2022 – 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…
5th April 2022 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Lent
5th April 2022 – Tuesday of Week 5 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Vincent Ferrer, OP, 1350-1419 (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…
4th April 2022 – Monday of Week 5 of Lent
4th April 2022 – Monday of Week 5 of Lent Optional memorial: St Isidore – completed the Mozarabic liturgy. (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…
Presider’s Page for 3 April (Fifth Sunday of Lent)
We gather this Sunday to worship our compassionate God, who heals our sinfulness and challenges us to leave the past behind.
3rd April 2022 – 5th Sunday of Lent, Year C
3rd April 2022 – 5th Sunday of Lent, Year C (1) Isaiah 43:16-21 The prophet promises the exiles a new Exodus Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings out chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down,…
2nd April 2022 – Saturday of Week 4
2nd April 2022 – 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…
1st April 2022 – Friday of Week 4 of Lent
1st April 2022 – 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…
31 March 2022 – Thursday of Week 4 of Lent
31 March 2022 – 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…
30 March 2022 – Wednesday of Week 4 of Lent
30 March 2022 – 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…
29 March 2022 – Tuesday of Week 4 of Lent
29 March 2022 – 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…
Monday 28th March 2022 – 4th Week of Lent
Monday 28th March 2022 – 4th Week of Lent (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 new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind….
Presider’s Page for 27 March (Fourth Sunday of Lent – Laetare)
We have reached the midway point of the season of Lent. The joy of Easter is within our reach and the parent of the prodigal son encourages us to rely all the more on divine mercy.
27 March 2022 – 4th Sunday of Lent, Year C
27 March 2022 – 4th Sunday of Lent, Year C (1) Joshua 5:9-12 The Israelites, free at last from slavery and humiliation in Egypt, enter the land of promise The Lord said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away from you the disgrace of Egypt.” And so that place is…
26 March 2022 – Saturday of Week 3 of Lent
26 March 2022 – Saturday of Week 3 of Lent (1) Hosea 5:15 – 6:6 God wants our love more than ritual sacrifice Yes, I am going to return to my dwelling place until they confess their guilt and seek my face; they will search for me in their misery….
March 25 The Annunciation of the Lord
March 25 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 deep as Sheol…
24 March 2022 – Thursday of Week 3 of Lent
24 March 2022 – Thursday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Macartan (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…
23 March 2022 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Lent
23 March 2022 – Wednesday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Turibus of Mongrovejo (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…
22 March 2022 – Tuesday of Week 3 of Lent
22 March 2022 – 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 counsellors, “Was it not three men that we threw bound into the fire?” They…
21 March 2022 – Monday of Week 3 of Lent
21 March 2022 – Monday of Week 3 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Enda (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 high favour with his…
Presider’s Page for 20 March (Third Sunday of Lent)
Today, as we gather to listen to the Lenten call to repentance, we worship our God of kindness who, like a patient gardener, always gives people a second chance.
20 March 2022 – 3rd Sunday of Lent, Year C
20 March 2022 – 3rd Sunday of Lent, Year C (1) Exodus 3:1-8, 13-15 God pities his people in Egypt and will free them, through Moses Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian; he led his flock beyond the wilderness, and came to Horeb,…
March 19 – Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin
March 19 – 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: Are…
18 March 2022 – Friday of Week 2 of Lent
18 March 2022 – Friday of Week 2 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Cyril of Jerusalem (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…
Bi-lingual Presider’s Page for Thursday 17 March (Lá Fhéile Pádraig)
We pause from our lenten penances in Ireland, to honour Patrick, our national apostle. In our celebration of this solemn feast, we worship God, creator, redeemer and sanctifier, who brought our ancestors into the Christian fold through the preaching of St Patrick.
17 March: St Patrick, Patron of Ireland
17 March: St Patrick, Patron of Ireland 1st Reading: Amos 7:12-15 Amos is called by God to be a prophet Amaziah said to Amos, “O seer, go, flee away to the land of Judah, earn your bread there, and prophesy there; but never again prophesy at Bethel, for it is…
16 March 2022 – Wednesday of Week 2 of Lent
16 March 2022 – 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…
15 March 2022 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Lent
15 March 2022 – Tuesday of Week 2 of Lent (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 teaching of our God, you people of Gomorrah! Wash yourselves; make…
14 March 2022 – Monday of Week 2 of Lent
14 March 2022 – 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,…
Presider’s Page for Sunday 13 March (Second Sunday of Lent)
In today’s Liturgy, we praise the Lord of glory, who leads us through the darkness of Lent to the light of Easter.
13 March 2022 – 2nd Sunday of Lent, Year C
13 March 2022 – 2nd Sunday of Lent, Year C (1) Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18 The covenant with Abraham, basis of Israel’s religion of trust He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then he said to him, “So…
Saturday 12 March – Week 1 of Lent
Saturday 12 March – 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 you have…
11 March 2022 – Friday of Week 1 of Lent
11 March 2022 – Friday of Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Aengus (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…
10 March 2022 – Thursday of Week 1 of Lent
10 March 2022 – 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…
9 March 2022 – Wednesday of Week 1 of Lent
9 March 2022 – Wednesday of Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorial: St Frances of Rome (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, that great city, and…
8 March 2022 – Tuesday of Week 1 of Lent
8 March 2022 – Tuesday of Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorials: St John of God; St Senan (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…
7 March 2022- Monday, Week 1 of Lent
7 March 2022- Monday, Week 1 of Lent Optional Memorial: Ss Perpetua and Felicity 1st Reading: 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…
Presider’s Page for 6 March (First Sunday of Lent)
The 40-day pilgrimage to Easter that began on Ash Wednesday is just a few days old. We pray that God, who sustained Jesus in his 40 days of temptations and suffering, will support us on our journey also. And we continue to pray for and support the people of Ukraine…
6 March 2022- First Sunday of Lent (C)
6 March 2022- First Sunday of Lent (C) (1) Deuteronomy 26:4-10 Offering the firsts fruits of harvest, they give thanks to God When the priest takes the basket from your hand and sets it down before the altar of the Lord your God, you shall make this response before the…
5 March 2022 – Saturday after Ash Wednesday
5 March 2022 – Saturday after Ash Wednesday Memorial: St Kieran 1st Reading: 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…
4 March 2022 – Friday after Ash Wednesday
4 March 2022 – Friday after Ash Wednesday Memorial: St Casimir 1st Reading: Isaiah 58:1-9 True religion is contrasted with 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…
3 March 2022 – Thursday after Ash Wednesday
3 March 2022 – Thursday after Ash Wednesday 1st Reading: Deuteronomy 30:15-20 A warm call to fidelity. Choose life so that you and your descendants 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…
2 March 2022 – Ash Wednesday
2 March 2022 – Ash Wednesday 1st Reading: 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…
1 March 2022- Tuesday of Week 8
1 March 2022- 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 time…
28 February, 2022
28 February – Monday of Week 8 (Cycle 2) 1st Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9 Peter praises the saving mercy of God, on the occasion of a baptism Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into…
Presider’s Page for 27 February (Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Words matter. What we say has an effect on others, for good or ill. Our words can bring peace or make war. As we pray to use our words well, we pray also for the world to be spared from the madness of war in Europe.
Presider’s Page for 27 February (Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Words matter. What we say has an effect on others, for good or ill. Our words can bring peace or make war. As we pray to use our words well, we pray also for the world to be spared from the madness of war in Europe.
Presider’s Page for 27 February (Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Words matter. What we say has an effect on others, for good or ill. Our words can bring peace or make war. As we pray to use our words well, we pray also for the world to be spared from the madness of war in Europe.
27 February 2022 – 8th Sunday (C)
27 February 2022 – 8th Sunday (C) Our Lord invites us to take the plank out of our own eyes before we try to take the splinter out of others’ eyes. It is good to take a hard look at ourselves and our own shortcomings (1) Sirach 27: 4-7 Three…
26 February 2022. Saturday, Week 7 in Ordinary Time
26 February 2022. Saturday, Week 7 in Ordinary Time 1st Reading: James 5:13-20 The place of anointing and of mutual instruction in the community of faith Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. Are any among you sick? They should…
25 February 2022 – Friday of Week 7
25 February 2022 – Friday of Week 7 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 the doors! As an example of suffering and…
24 February 2022 – Thursday of Week 7
24 February 2022 – 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…
23 February 2022 – Wednesday of Week 7
23 February 2022 – Wednesday of Week 7 Memorial: St Polycarp 1st Reading: James 4:13-17 We do not know what kind of life will be ours tomorrow Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a town and spend a year there, doing…
22 February, 2022. Chair of St Peter the Apostle
22 February, 2022. 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 to…
21 February, 2022
21 February, 2022. Monday of Week 7 Optional Memorial: St Peter Damian 1st Reading: James 3:13-18 A wise spirit is not imbued by envy but by leniency and peace Who is wise and understanding among you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of…
Presider’s Page for 20 February (Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Loving the enemy and praying for those who make life difficult are two marks of a Christian, or so Jesus teaches us today. We gather, aware of how difficult love can be, yet united by the saving mercy of God, on which we rely.
Presider’s Page for 20 February (Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Loving the enemy and praying for those who make life difficult are two marks of a Christian, or so Jesus teaches us today. We gather, aware of how difficult love can be, yet united by the saving mercy of God, on which we rely.
Presider’s Page for 20 February (Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Loving the enemy and praying for those who make life difficult are two marks of a Christian, or so Jesus teaches us today. We gather, aware of how difficult love can be, yet united by the saving mercy of God, on which we rely.
20 February 2022 – 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)
20 February 2022 – 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C) Today we celebrate Jesus as the Lord of compassion and love. We cannot honestly approach his altar if we are still bearing grudges against others. We ask him to rid us of our petty vengefulness 1st Reading:1 Samuel 26:2,…
19 February 2022. Saturday of Week 6
1st Reading: James 3:1-10 Guard the tongue and speak with decency Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For all of us make many mistakes. Anyone who makes no mistakes in speaking is…
18 February, 2022. Friday of Week 6
18 February, 2022. Friday of Week 6 1st Reading: James 2:14-24, 26 Faith without works is like a body without breath What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you? If a brother or sister is…
17 February, 2022. Thursday of Week 6
17 February, 2022. Thursday of Week 6 Optional Memorial: Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order; Optional Memorial: St Fintan 1st Reading: James 2:1-9 Show no favouritism, but love your neighbour as yourself My brothers and sisters, do you with your acts of favouritism really believe in our glorious Lord…
16 February, 2022. Wednesday of Week 6
16 February, 2022. Wednesday of Week 6 1st Reading: James 1:19-27 Be doers of the word, not merely listeners You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness. Therefore rid yourselves of all…
15 February, 2022. Tuesday of Week 6
15 February, 2022. 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 to…
14 February, 2022. Saints Cyril and Methodius
14 February, 2022. Saints Cyril and Methodius 1st Reading: Acts 13:46-49 The missionary courage of the apostles, later emulated by the mission of Cyril and Methodius to the Slavs. Then both Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken first…
Presider’s Page for 13 February (Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Happy are they who their trust in the Lord: worry will not come their way, their lives will bear fruit. The prophet Jeremiah’s words are reflected in the Psalm, as we are invited to trust in the one who never disappoints.
Presider’s Page for 13 February (Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Happy are they who their trust in the Lord: worry will not come their way, their lives will bear fruit. The prophet Jeremiah’s words are reflected in the Psalm, as we are invited to trust in the one who never disappoints.
13 February 2022. 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)
13 February 2022. 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time (C) Jeremiah tells us whom we can really trust. Even leaders can lead us astray. Our primary trust is in the Lord, who guides our lives. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8 Trust in human resources is like a withering shrub in the arid…
12 February, 2022. Saturday of Week 5
12 February, 2022. Saturday of Week 5 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 revert to the house of David. If this people continues to go up to offer…
21 February, 2022. Monday of Week 7
21 February, 2022. Monday of Week 7 Optional Memorial: St Peter Damian 1st Reading: James 3:13-18 A wise spirit is not imbued by envy but by leniency and peace Who is wise and understanding among you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of…
11 February 2022 Friday Week 5 in Ordinary Time
11 February 2022 Friday Week 5 in Ordinary Time Our Lady of Lourdes (Optional Memorial) St Gobnait, virgin (Optional Memorial) 1 Kings 11:29ff. The prophet Ahijah announces the breakup of David’s kingdom; ten of the twelve tribes choose Jeroboam as their king. 1 Kings 11:29-32; 12:19 About that time, when Jeroboam…
10 February, 2022. Thursday of Week 5
10 February, 2022. Thursday of Week 5 St Scholastica (Memorial) 1st Reading: 1 Kings 11:4-13 Solomon’s sins are traced to the influence of his pagan wives; as punishment his kingdom will be divided. When Solomon was old, his wives turned away his heart after other gods; and his heart was…
9 February, 2022. Wednesday of Week 5
9 February, 2022. Wednesday of Week 5 1st Reading: 1 Kings 10:1-10 The Queen of Sheba admires Solomon’s splendour and his wisdom When the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to test him with hard questions. She came to Jerusalem with a very great retinue,…
8 February, 2022. Tuesday of Week 5
8 February, 2022. Tuesday of Week 5 St Jerome Emiliani; St Josephine Bakita (Optional Memorials) 1st Reading: 1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30 The temple dedication ends with a beautiful prayer Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and spread out…
7th February 2022. Monday of Week 5 in Ordinary Time
7th February 2022. Monday of Week 5 in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial: St Mel, Ardagh & Clonmacnoise 1st Reading: 1 Kings 8:1-7, 9-13 A cloud fills the sanctuary, symbolizing the Lord’s awesome presence Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes, the leaders of…
Presider’s Page for 6 February (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Everyone who believes God’s word is called to pass on the Good News. Like many who have gone before us, including the prophet Isaiah and the apostles Paul, and Peter, we may not feel up to the task. But God helps us every day.
Presider’s Page for 6 February (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Everyone who believes God’s word is called to pass on the Good News. Like many who have gone before us, including the prophet Isaiah and the apostles Paul, and Peter, we may not feel up to the task. But God helps us every day.
6th February. Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
6th February. Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Theme: When Jesus told Peter to put out into the deep he was encouraging him to have trust. Trust in God is a virtue not only for fishermen but for all Christians. We need it more than ever, today. 1st Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8…
5th February 2022. Saturday of Week 4 Ordinary Time
5th February 2022. Saturday of Week 4 Ordinary Time Memorial: St Agatha – third century, died a martyr in Catania, Sicily. Patron of bell-founders. 1st Reading: 1 Kings 3:4-13 Solomon prayed for an understanding heart to judge God’s people and to distinguish right from wrong. The king went to Gibeon…
4th February 2022. Friday of Week 4
4th February 2022. Friday of Week 4 1st Reading: Sirach 47:2-11 David is praised as defender of Israel, as psalmist and penitent sinner, gifted with eternal promises As the fat is set apart from the offering of well-being, so David was set apart from the Israelites. He played with lions…
Thursday 3rd February 2022. Thursday of Week 4 – St Blaise
Thursday 3rd February 2022. Thursday of Week 4 Optional Memorials: St Blaise, St Ansgar. Summary: St Blaise, a fourth century bishop at Sebaste (now the city of Sivas in central Turkey, in what was then the Roman province of Armenia-Cappadocia). During a persecution – probably ordered by Constantine’s ally and…
Thursday 3rd February 2022. Thursday of Week 4 – St Blaise
Thursday 3rd February 2022. Thursday of Week 4 Optional Memorials: St Blaise, St Ansgar. Summary: St Blaise, a fourth century bishop at Sebaste (now the city of Sivas in central Turkey, in what was then the Roman province of Armenia-Cappadocia). During a persecution – probably ordered by Constantine’s ally and…
Tuesday 2 February 2022. The Presentation of Our Lord
Tuesday 2 February 2022. 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…
Tuesday 1st February 2022. Saint Brigid of Kildare
Tuesday 1st February 2022. 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 my…
31 January 2022. Monday of Week 4 in Ordinary Time
31 January 2022. Monday of Week 4 in Ordinary Time St. John Bosco, (Memorial) 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…
Presider’s Page for 30 January (Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
We gather as people loved by God, people called to pass on the love we have received. The love God has put into the world will never fail, but will last as long as humanity lasts. We praise God for the gifts lavished on us.
30 January 2022. Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
30 January 2022. Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (C) What happened in the Nazareth synagogue can happen today in the church. We may carry prejudices with us into our places of worship, and if we do, we block the message God wants to give us. 1st Reading: Jeremiah 1:4-5, 17-19…
29 January 2022. Saturday of Week Three in Ordinary Time
29 January 2022. Saturday of Week Three in Ordinary Time 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 12:1-7, 10-17 David’s sin with Bathsheba will be punished within his own family The Lord sent Nathan to David. He went to him, and said to him, “There were two men in a certain city, the…
28 January 2022. Friday of Week Three in Ordinary Time
28 January 2022. Friday of Week Three in Ordinary Time St. Thomas Aquinas, (Memorial) 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 11:1-10, 13-17 David’s adultery and his executive murder of Uriah In the spring of the year, the time when kings go out to battle, David sent Joab with his officers and all…
27 January 2022. Thursday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time
27 January 2022. Thursday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time St. Angela Merici (Opt. Memorial) 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 7:18-19, 24-29 David gives thanks for God’s everlasting faithfulness King David went in and sat before the Lord, and said, “Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house,…
26 January 2022. Wednesday Week Three in Ordinary Time – Saints Timothy and Titus
26 January 2022. Wednesday Week Three 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 that is…
25 January 2022 Tuesday, Week 3 – Conversion of St Paul
25 January 2022 Tuesday, Week 3 – Conversion of St Paul The Conversion of St Paul 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…
24 January 2022. Monday of Week Three in Ordinary Time
24 January 2022. Monday of Week Three in Ordinary Time Memorial: St Francis de Sales 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 at Hebron, and said,…
Presider’s Page for 23 January (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Catholic Schools Week begins today in Ireland. ‘Sunday of the Word of God’ is observed in the universal Church, and so, the Word of God is the focus at Mass, read by Ezra the priest in the Old Testament reading, and by Jesus in the Gospel. By his Word, God…
23 January 2022. Third Sunday of Ordinary Time
23 January 2022. Third Sunday of Ordinary Time (Year C). Sunday of the Word of God (see below) Neh 8:2-6, 8-10. Ezra the Scribe set out to re-establish the Jewish Laws, to bring his people back to the religion of Moses. 1 Cor 12:12-30. As the body is one though made…
22 January 2022. Saturday of Week 2 in Ordinary Time
22 January 2022. Saturday of Week 2 in Ordinary Time St Vincent, martyr (optional memorial) 1st Reading: 2 Samuel 1:1-4 etc David’s grief at the death of Saul and Jonathan After the death of Saul, when David had returned from defeating the Amalekites, David remained two days in Ziklag. On…
21 January, 2022. Friday of Week 2 in Ordinary Time
21 January, 2022. Friday of Week 2 in Ordinary Time Memorial: St Agnes 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…
20 January, 2022. Thursday of Week 2 in Ordinary Time
20 January, 2022. Thursday of Week 2 in Ordinary Time Optional Memorials: St Fabian; St Sebastian 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 18:6-9, 19:1-7 Saul’s jealousy threatens David, but Jonathan helps to reconcile them As they were coming home, when David returned from killing the Philistine, the women came out of…
19 January, 2022. Wednesday of Week 2
19 January, 2022. Wednesday of Week 2 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 17:32-33, 40-51 David kills Goliath, and saves his people David said to Saul, “Let no one’s heart fail because of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “You are not able to…
18 January, 2022. Tuesday of Week 2
18 January, 2022. Tuesday of Week 2 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 In Bethlehem Samuel anoints David (Jesse’s youngest son) as king The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul? I have rejected him from being king over Israel. Fill your horn with oil and set…
17 January, 2022. Monday of Week 2
17 January, 2022. Monday of Week 2 St Anthony – Memorial 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 15:16-23 For disobeying the prophet Samuel, Saul is deposed as king Then Samuel said to Saul, “Stop! I will tell you what the Lord said to me last night.” He replied, “Speak.” Samuel said, “Though…
Presider’s Page for 16 January (Second Sunday in Ordinary Time)
There are echoes of the Christmas season in today’s liturgy, particularly in the Gospel story of the wedding feast of Cana, in which God’s glory becomes visible in Jesus, as it did at his Epiphany and Baptism.
16 January 2022. Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
16 January 2022. Second Sunday in Ordinary Time Theme: Like Mary and Jesus, we should help without being asked and without fuss or demand. 1st Reading: Isaiah 62:1-5 God has prepared joyful feast for his people For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will…
15 January, 2022. Saturday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time
15 January, 2022. Saturday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time St Ita – Memorial 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 9:1-4, 12-19; 10:1 Saul is anointed by Samuel as king of Israel, at God’s inspiration There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son…
14 January, 2022. Friday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time
14 January, 2022. Friday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time 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…
13 January, 2022. Thursday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time
13 January, 2022. Thursday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time St Hilary – Optional memorial 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,…
12 January 2022. Wednesday of Week 1, Ordinary Time
12 January 2022. Wednesday of Week 1, Ordinary Time 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 3:1-10, 19-20 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…
11 January, 2022. Tuesday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time
11 January, 2022. Tuesday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 1:9-20 Eli promises the grieving Hannah that she 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…
10 January, 2022. Monday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time
10 January, 2022. Monday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time (Readings; Sunday Cycle B/Weekday Cycle 2) 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…
Presider’s Page for 9 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.
09 January 2022. The Baptism of the Lord
09 January 2022. The Baptism of the Lord Theme: Jesus brings justice and divine life to the nations. As his baptised family, we seek the kingdom of God through justice and peace. [Two sets of readings are options to choose from. These below are from Year C.] First Reading: Isaiah…
08 January, 2022. Saturday after the Epiphany
08 January, 2022. Saturday after the Epiphany 1st Reading: 1 John 4:7-10 Love’s divine origin and its influence on our lives Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God,…
07 January 2022. Friday after Epiphany
07 January 2022. Friday after Epiphany 1st Reading: 1 John 3:22–4:6 Distinguishing the spirit of truth from the spirit of error Beloved, we receive from him whatever we ask, because we obey his commandments and do what pleases him. And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the…
Presider’s Page for Thursday 6 January (Epiphany / “Nollaig na mBan”)
On this feast of the Epiphany we celebrate the revelation of who Christ is. The visit of the Magi from foreign lands reminds us that Jesus came as the Saviour of all nations, including ours. We worship God who wants all people to be saved.
Thursday 6 January 2022 – The Epiphany of the Lord
Thursday 6 January 2022 – The Epiphany of the Lord Prayer (ICEL 1998) Lord God of the nations, we have seen the star of your glory rising in splendour. The radiance of your incarnate Word pierces the darkness that covers the earth and signals the dawn of peace and justice….
05 January 2022. Wednesday before Epiphany
05 January 2022. Wednesday before Epiphany 1st Reading: 1 John 3:11-21 The original Christian message, that we should love one another For this is the message you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. We must not be like Cain who was from the evil one…
04 January, 2022. Tuesday before Epiphany
04 January, 2022. Tuesday before Epiphany 1st Reading: 1 John 3:7-10. Being 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; for the devil…
03 January, 2022. Monday before Epiphany
03 January, 2022. Monday before Epiphany The Most Holy Name of Jesus (Opt. Memorial); St Munchin (Mainchin), bishop (Opt. Memorial) 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 is righteous, you may…
Presider’s Page for 2 January 2022 (Second Sunday of Christmas)
We gather to celebrate the first Sunday of 2022, moving with gratitude into a new year of God’s grace. We thank God for the vaccines developed to protect humanity and ask for God’s continuing care and protection until everyone is safe and COVID variants no longer threaten us.
2 January 2022 – Second Sunday of Christmas
2 January 2022 – Second Sunday of Christmas Prayer (ICEL 1998) God most high, your only Son embraced the weakness of our flesh to give us the power to become your children; your eternal Word chose to dwell among us, that we might live in your presence. Grant us a…
Presider’s Page for New Year’s Day 2022 (Feast of Mary, Mother of God)
Happy New Year! On this first day of the Year of Our Lord 2022, we acclaim Mary as Mother of God and ask her to mind us and those we love during this new year. We pray that the world may be freed from COVID-19 through a global programme of…
1 January 2022 – Mary, The Holy Mother of God
1 January 2022 – Mary, The Holy Mother of God 1st Reading: Numbers 6:22-27 The solemn priestly prayer for God to bless and protect us is especially apt at the beginning of a new year The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you…
31 December 2021 – Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas
31 December 2021 – Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas Saint Sylvester, pope. Sylvester (250?-325) was born in Rome and served as a priest under pope Marcellinus before the persecutions of Diocletian. He saw the triumph of Constantine in the year 312 and succeeded Melchiades as bishop of Rome…
30 December 2021 – Sixth Day in the Christmas Octave
30 December 2021 – Sixth Day in the Christmas Octave First Reading: 1 John 2:12-17 (The world and its desire are passing away, but those who do the will of God live forever) I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven on account of his name….
29 December 2021 – Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas
29 December 2021 – Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas Saint Thomas a Becket (opt.mem.) 1st Reading: 1 John 2:3-11 The link between love and walking in the light of God Beloved: The way we may be sure that we know Jesus is to keep his commandments. Whoever says,…
28 December 2021 – The Holy Innocents
28 December 2021 – The Holy Innocents, martyrs 1st Reading: 1 John 1:5–2:2 Our fellowship with God through Jesus Christ the righteous one Beloved: This is the message that we have heard from Jesus Christ and proclaim to you: God is light, and in him there is no darkness at…
27 December 2021, St John, Apostle and Evangelist
27 December 2021, St 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 touched…
Presider’s Page for St Stephen’s Day (Feast of the Holy Family)
On the day after Christmas Day, Irish people traditionally honour St Stephen, the first Christian martyr. This year, we also reflect on the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, whom St Stephen loved so much that he gave his life for the message of forgiveness that Jesus brought. We…
Sunday 26 December 2021 – The Feast of the Holy Family
Sunday 26 December 2021 – The Feast of the Holy Family (St Stephen, first martyr, is not celebrated this year.) 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 1:20-22 Hannah dedicates her son, Samuel, to God In due time Hannah conceived and bore a son. She named him Samuel, for she said, “I have…
Presider’s Page for Christmas Day (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 Christmas Day (Dawn Mass)
We gather with joy in our hearts to celebrate the birthday of our Saviour. The rising sun of this winter morning reminds us that Jesus, who is born for us, rose from death as our undying light, our hope and our salvation.
Christmas Day, 25 December 2021
Christmas Day, 25 December 2021 – The Word was made flesh, he lived among us and we saw his glory. Is 52:7-10; Heb 1:1-6; Jn 1:1-18 (Mass during the day) Today we celebrate the birth in our world of Jesus Christ, who was with God before all ages. His birth…
Presider’s Page for Christmas Eve (Night Mass)
In the dark of this winter night, threatened by COVID and other dangers, we steadfastly 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 Jesus,…
Friday December 24 2021. Week Four in Advent
And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins.
Thursday December 23 2021. Week Four in Advent
“His name is John.” And all of them were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue freed, and he began to speak, praising God. Fear came over all their neighbours, and all these things were talked about throughout the entire hill country of Judea. All who heard them…
Wednesday December 22 2021. Week Four in Advent
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.”
Tuesday December 21 2021. Week Four in Advent
For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.”
Monday December 20 2021. Week Four in Advent
Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.”
Presider’s Page for 19 December (Fourth Sunday of Advent)
In less than a week’s time, this year’s Advent will draw to a close; we have just a few days left to prepare our souls for the birth of Christ. On this Sunday, we rejoice that the promise made to Mary by the Lord has been fulfilled.
Sunday December 19 2021. Fourth Sunday in Advent
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.
Saturday December 18, 2021. Week Three in Advent
All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord…
Friday December 17, 2021. Week Three in Advent
So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David to the deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations.
Thursday December 16, 2021. Week Three in Advent
So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David to the deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations.
Wednesday December 15, 2021. Week Three in Advent
And he answered them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at…
Tuesday December 14, 2021. Week Three in Advent
For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him; and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him.
Monday December 13, 2021. Week Three in Advent
Jesus said to them, “I will also ask you one question; if you tell me the answer, then I will also tell you by what authority I do these things. Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?” … So they answered Jesus, “We…
Presider’s Page for 12 December (Third Sunday of Advent)
We’re just halfway through Advent. Traditionally, today is called Gaudete Sunday, which means ‘a day for rejoicing.’ The reason for celebration is that the day of the Lord’s coming is nearer.
Sunday December 12, 2021. Third Sunday in Advent
As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John , whether he might be the Messiah, John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to…
Saturday December 11 2021. Week Two in Advent
“Elijah is indeed coming and will restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but they did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man is about to suffer at their hands.”
Thursday December 9 2021. Week Two in Advent
This is the one about whom it is written, ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’
Presider’s Page for Wednesday 8 December (Immaculate Conception of Mary, the Mother of God)
Our preparations for Christmas always include Mary, the Mother of God. Today’s feast celebrates her conception free from sin, a miracle that displays God’s power for believers. We worship God, for whom everything is posssible.
Wednesday December 8 2021. The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.
Tuesday December 7 2021. Week Two in Advent
Jesus said to his disciples, “What do you think? If a shepherd has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray?”
Monday December 6 2021. Week Two in Advent
When Jesus perceived their questionings, he answered them, “Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to…
Presider’s Page for 5 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 will surely come to us.
Saturday December 4 2021. Week One in Advent
He told them, “Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel, and as you go, proclaim the good news, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment.
Friday December 3 2021. Week One in Advent
When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes and said, “according to your faith let it be done to you.”
Thursday December 2 2021. Week One in Advent
And Jesus said to them, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.
Wednesday December 1 2021. Week One in Advent
Then ordering the crowd to sit down on the ground, he took the seven loaves and the fish; and after giving thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all of them ate and were filled; and they took…
Presider’s Page for 28 November (First Sunday of Advent, Year C)
Advent begins today. During these days, we look forward, waiting in hope. We watch for the end times, when Christ will come in glory, Christ who was born for us just over 2,000 years ago.
Sunday, November 28 2021. First Sunday of Advent
“Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth.”
Presider’s Page for 21 November (Christ the King)
We celebrate the feast of Christ the King today, acclaiming Jesus as the Anointed One, who died for us and rose triumphant. We offer praise and worship — and ask for the grace to live as worthy citizens of his kingdom of justice, truth, love and peace.
Sunday, November 21 2021, Thirty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Pilate asked him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Whoever belongs to the truth listens to my voice.”
Presider’s Page for 14 November (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
As we move into the darker times of the year, the readings at Mass remind us more and more of the end of time, and the glory awaiting believers. We trust that God stays with us always. • Today is World Day of the Poor, with the theme ‘The poor…
Sunday, November 14 2021 Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the…
Presider’s Page for 7 November (32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Gathering together in the Lord’s house, we bring simple gifts into God’s presence – our love, our care for each other, our worshipping hearts and voices. We ask for the grace to continue to show love through the coming week. • Today is Prisoners’ Sunday in Ireland.
Presider’s Page for Tuesday 2 November (All Souls Day)
On All Saints Day and today, we remember all the dead, those in heaven and those still be on the way there: God alone knows where each soul is. Today we pray for all souls, for the faithful departed still on the journey to their heavenly home.
Presider’s Page for Monday 1 November (All Saints Day)
Today and tomorrow we remember all the dead, those in heaven and those still be on the way there: God alone knows where each soul is. Today’s feast celebrates the saints in heaven, the holy men and women of every time and place: we hope some of our people are…
Presider’s Page for 31 October (31st Sunday in Ordinary Time)
What is asked of us is simple – to love God and our neighbour. But our love also extends to our common home, as all eyes are on Glasgow, where the UN Climate Change Conference begins in Glasgow this Sunday — that Planet Earth may be spared from destruction.
Presider’s Page for Mission Sunday, 24 October (30th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
This year’s Mission Sunday theme suggests that “We cannot remain silent”. Those were the brave words of St Peter and St John in the Acts of the Apostles, when even in the face of persecution, they insisted: “We cannot but speak about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20)….
Presider’s Page for 17th October (29th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
We are called to serve as Christ served, but when that proves hard for us, we approach the throne of grace for mercy and assistance, knowing that God is on our side, encouraging us onwards.
Presider’s Page for 10 October (28th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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.
Presider’s Page for 3 October (27th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
October is Mission Month. In three weeks time we will honour the work of missionaries on Mission Sunday; throughout the month, we are challenged by the Mission theme for 2021: ‘We cannot remain silent’, based on the strong words from the Acts of the Apostles: “We cannot but speak about…
Presider’s Page for 26 September (26th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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 the Church’s 107th World Day of Migrants and Refugees (observed annually since 1914). Resources from the South African Catholic Bishops Conference, some included below,…
Presider’s Page for 19 September (25th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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.
Presider’s Page for 12 September (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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 the same for us.
Presiders Page for 5 September (23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
God’s healing power was seen in the ministry of Jesus, and continues in the sacraments, in advances in medicine, in vaccine programmes and in the work of the caring professions. Today we pray for strength, trusting that God will continue to show compassion to the whole world.
Presider’s Page for 29 August (22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
As we move from summer towards 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.
Presider’s Page for 22 August (21st Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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.
Presider’s Page for 15 August (Assumption of Our Lady)
We worship God who brought Mary to the glory of heaven this day. We celebrate her Assumption, the tangible reminder that the resurrection of Jesus brings victory over death for all who believe.
Presider’s Page for 8 August (19th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
We gather together as friends this Sunday morning, called by the Lord to forgive each other as quickly as God forgives us.
Presider’s Page for 1 August (18th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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 today.
Presider’s Page for 25 July (17th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
United with Christians all over the world, we acknowledge one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God as our Father. We worship as one family, and pray for greater charity and love among all the baptised. • Today is World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
Presider’s Page for 18 July (16th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Our God is like a shepherd who always looks after the flock: the Lord cares for us in all our needs. Even when we are distressed by a new surge of COVID-19, our caring Lord is by our side.
Presider’s Page for 11 July 2011 (15th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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. • Sunday 11 July marks the 100th anniversary of the Truce that ended the War of Independence in Ireland. Accordingly, today is the…
Presider’s Page for 4 July (14th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
God calls us together for praise and worship today. As weak and sinful people, we gather to ask the Lord’s mercy. We know that divine grace is sufficient for us. Together, we praise and thank our God for the constant care we receive.
Presider’s Page for 27 June (13th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
As summer takes hold of us, 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.
Presider’s Page for 20 June (12th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
We have nothing to be afraid of, no matter what storm threatens to overwhelm us, God is with us. We need to trust in Christ’s calming presence — and not to be afraid to ask for help. • And on this Father’s Day, we honour the presence and memory of…
Presider’s Page for 13 June (11th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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.
Presider’s Page for 6 June (Corpus Christi)
Today we honour the Body and Blood of Christ, the food that sustains us on our pilgrimage through life. Even if in pandemic times we have not received Holy Communion as often as we would have liked, we have learned to appreciate this gift all the more.
Presider’s Page for 30 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.
May 30 2021 The Most Holy Trinity
Go, therefore, make disciples of all the nations; baptise them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to observe all the commands I gave you. And know that I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.’
Presider’s Page for 23 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.
May 23 2021 Pentecost Sunday
When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
Presider’s Page for 16 May (Ascension Day)
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.
May 16 2021 The Ascension of the Lord – World Communications Day
So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and proclaimed the good news everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that accompanied…
Presider’s Page for 9 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 coming week.
May 9 2021 Sixth Sunday of Easter
You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another. “If…
Presider’s Page for 2 May (Fifth Sunday of Easter)
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.
May 2 2021 Fifth Sunday of Easter
All who obey his commandments abide in him, and he abides in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.
Presider’s Page for 25 April (Fourth Sunday of Easter)
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. We rejoice that this pastoral care continues, in the loving tenderness extended by many Christian women and men today. Today is the day of prayer…
April 25 2021 Fourth Sunday of Easter
I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for my sheep.
Presider’s Page for 18 April (Third Sunday of Easter)
During the Easter season the Church continues to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead, even in these pandemic days. Today, we join together to worship God, who has brought about the great victory over sin and death in which we hope.
April 18, 2021. Third Sunday of Easter
Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread. While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” They were startled and terrified, and thought…
Presider’s Page for 11 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 23 May, the fiftieth and final day of Easter. Alternative Opening Prayer…
April 11, 2021. Second Sunday of Easter. Divine Mercy Sunday
A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and…
Presider’s Page for 4 April (Easter Sunday)
This Easter morning we gather for a most unusual Easter celebration. Pandemic threatens to overwhelm, yet the Church insistently proclaims: Christ is risen! We still 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…
April 4, 2021. Easter Day of the Lord’s Resurrection
Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth that had been on Jesus” head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first,…
Presider’s Page for 1 April (Holy Thursday)
The liturgy that begins this Thursday evening 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 there to Calvary tomorrow, and from the tomb to resurrection and…
Presider’s Page for 28 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 their significance.
March 28, 2021. Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Then the soldiers led him into the courtyard of the palace (that is, the governor’s headquarters); and they called together the whole cohort. And they clothed him in a purple cloak; and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on him. And they began saluting him, “Hail,…
Presider’s Page for 21 March (Fifth Sunday of Lent)
In just over ten days time, the Easter Triduum will begin, at sunset on Holy Thursday. Today we pray for all the believers all over the world for whom Easter brings renewal: may we be fit and ready to make a new start when this Lent is over.
Sunday March 21, 2021. Fifth Sunday of Lent
“Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say ” ‘ Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this our. Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it…
Bilingual Presider’s Page for Wednesday 17 March (Lá Fhéile Pádraig Naofa)
Today, we pause from our lenten penances to honour Patrick, our national apostle. In our celebration of this solemn feast, we worship God, creator, redeemer and sanctifier, who brought our ancestors into the Christian fold through the preaching of St Patrick. [In this year’s Mass we remember especially the irish…
Bilingual Presider’s Page for Wednesday 17 March (Lá Fhéile Pádraig Naofa)
Today, we pause from our lenten penances to honour Patrick, our national apostle. In our celebration of this solemn feast, we worship God, creator, redeemer and sanctifier, who brought our ancestors into the Christian fold through the preaching of St Patrick. [In this year’s Mass we remember especially the irish…
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Presider’s Page for 14 March (Fourth Sunday of Lent – “Laetare”)
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 to honour mothers, praying for those still with us and remembering those who have died.
March 14, 2021. Fourth Sunday of Lent
And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil. For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed. But those…
Presider’s Page for 7 March (Third Sunday in Lent, Year B)
We gather in continuing lockdown on this first Sunday of March in Ireland, praying that God will keep our hope alive during the Lenten spring. The Lord has the message of eternal life: we come to know this message during the Sunday online gathering and deepen our relationship with our Saviour.
March 7, 2021. Third Sunday of Lent
The Jews then said to him, “What sign can you show us for doing this?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” The Jews then said, “This temple has been under construction for forty-six Years, and will you raise it up in…
Presider’s Page for 28 February (Second Sunday of Lent, Year B)
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, even on dark days. Easter will follow this season of penance,…
February 28, 2021 – Second Sunday of Lent
Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!” Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell…
Presider’s Page for 21 February (First Sunday of Lent)
Today we celebrate the first Sunday of Lent. Lent is celebrated in lockdown this year, in this and most every country, as the world fights COVID-19. But though apart, we are united in worship and in prayer, looking forward to Easter and better days ahead.
February 21, 2021 – First Sunday of Lent
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”
Presider’s Page for Ash Wednesday (17 February, 2021)
Today we begin the journey of penance and reflection that will bring us to the celebration of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus at Easter time. Let us pray for the grace to keep Lent faithfully..
Presider’s Page for 14 February (Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
‘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, marking the Day of Prayer for Temperance — and preparing for the online Lenten Spring of 2021, a Lent like no…
February 14, 2021 – Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
A leper came to Jesus begging him, and kneeling he said to him, “If you choose, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, “I do choose. Be made clean!” Immediately the leprosy left him, and he was…
Presider’s Page for 7 February (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
As we come together for worship, each of us brings worries, anxieties and fears, made worse by the pandemic all around us. We gather our concerns together and entrust them to the one who heals his suffering people.
February 7, 2021 – Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. And Simon and his companions hunted for him. When they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is searching for you.” He answered, “Let us go on…
Presider’s Page for 31 January (Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
We come together [on-line] this Sunday to listen to God’s word, believing that Jesus teaches us with authority: we have been rescued from sin and darkness, and given the hope of heaven.
January 31, 2021 Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, “What is this? A new teaching-with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee.
January 24, 2021 Third Sunday in Ordinary Time – Sunday of the Word of God
Peter, Andrew, James and John were called to leave their natural family to embrace a much larger family, the future family of Jesus’ disciples. The Lord’s call to us to follow him today will always involve some element of that call to open ourselves up to a wider family, the…
Presider’s Page for 24 January (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time)
The calling of disciples is described in today’s Gospel. We too are called to follow Christ, even in these difficult times of pandemic. As believers, we listen to God’s word, allowing it to steer and support us, every day of our lives. • The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity continues…
Presider’s Page for 17 January (Second Sunday in Ordinary Time)
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. In the light of the Mother and Babies Home report published this week, there is sadness in our hearts as we gather, as…
January 17, 2021 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
January 17, 2021 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (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…
Presider’s Page for 10 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.
Presider’s Page for Wednesday 6 January (Epiphany)
On this feast of the Epiphany we celebrate the revelation of who Christ is. The visit of the Magi from foreign lands reminds us that Jesus came as the Saviour of all nations, including ours. We worship God who wants all people to be saved.
Presider’s Page for 3 January (Second Sunday of Christmas)
Opening Comment We gather to celebrate the first Sunday of 2021, moving with gratitude into a new year of God’s grace. We thank God for the vaccines developed to protect humanity and ask for God’s continuing care and protection until everyone is safe. Confident that God’s mercy has no end,…
3 January – 2nd Sunday after Christmas
This Word became flesh to make the Eternal Father known to all of us. He came to let us know the Father. Indeed, he is God’s personal message to us. How can we know the Father? Through Jesus who is “the way, the truth and the life.” He is our…
Presider’s Page for 1 January 2021 (New Year’s Day)
Happy New Year! On this first day of the Year of Our Lord 2021, we acclaim Mary as Mother of God and ask her to mind us and those we love during this new year. We pray that the world may be freed from COVID-19 through a global programme of…
Presider’s Page for 27 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 have joined the great family of God…
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Even though we honour them as the Holy Family, it does not mean they never had problems to face, as every family must. Just as every Christian has a share in the cross of Christ, the Holy Family also experienced life’s crosses…
Presider’s Page for 25 December (‘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 25 December (‘Dawn Mass’)
We gather with joy in our hearts to celebrate the birthday of our Saviour. The rising sun of this winter morning reminds us that Jesus, who is born for us, rose from death as our undying light, our hope and our salvation.
Presider’s Page for 24 December (‘Night Mass’)
Opening Comment 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 Jesus, salvation is ours. Alternative Opening…
Presider’s Page for 20 December (Fourth Sunday of Advent)
Advent is drawing to a close; we have just a few days left to prepare for the birth of Christ. On this Sunday, we’re invited to follow Mary’s example and imitate her faith.
4th Sunday of Advent
We like to be the givers, the organizers, the achievers. To let others give to us is to acknowledge our need, our dependence, our limitations, and that does not always come easy…
Presider’s Page for 13 December (Third Sunday of Advent, Gaudete Sunday)
We’re midway through the season of Advent. Traditionally, today is called Gaudete Sunday, which means ‘a day for rejoicing.’ The reason for celebration is that the day of the Lord’s coming is very near.
3rd Sunday in Advent
The Baptist was a voice crying in the wilderness, a voice to invite people into relationship with God. We too are asked to use our voice to make Christ known…
Presider’s Page for Tuesday 8 December (Immaculate Conception of the BVM)
This feast had its origin in the East as the “Conception of Mary by St Anne.” It spread through the West during the Middle Ages as the “Immaculate Conception” and was extended to the entire Western Church in the eighteenth century. The feast celebrates Mary, preserved from sin from the…
Presider’s Page for 6 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 will surely come to us.
2nd Sunday of Advent
Like a shepherd feeding his flock, gathering lambs in his arms, holding them to his breast, and gently leading the mother-ewes who are due to give birth…
Presider’s Page for 29 November (First Sunday of Advent, Year B)
Advent begins today, and with it a new year in the Church’s life. We look forward with hope to the end of time, when Christ will come in glory — and with joy, even in the midst of pandemic, we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ.
29 November, 2020. First Sunday of Advent
“Keep awake-for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.”
Presider’s Page for 22 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 sick or in prison. But in the meantime,…
22 November, 2020. Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
22 November, 2020. Jesus Christ, King of the Universe 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 love our neighbour. The shepherd-theme is prominent,…
Presider’s Page for 15 November (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time: World Day of the Poor)
The end of this year and 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 as the…
15 November, 2020. 33rd Sunday, Year A
15 November, 2020. 33rd Sunday, Year 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…
Presider’s Page for 8 November (32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: Prisoners’ Sunday)
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.
08 November, 2020. 32nd Sunday, Year A
08 November, 2020. 32nd Sunday, Year A If we hope in the resurrection, despite our grieving we have hope. The hopefulness of Wisdom is given sharper focus by St Paul, who says that all we have lost will be restored when Jesus returns in glory. 1st Reading: Wisdom 6:12-16 In…
Presider’s Page for Monday 2 November (All Souls)
On All Saints Day and today, we remember all the dead, those in heaven and those still be on the way there: God alone knows where each soul is. Today we pray for all souls, for the faithful departed still on the journey to their heavenly home.
Presider’s Page for Sunday 1 November (All Saints)
Today and tomorrow we remember all the dead, those in heaven and those still be on the way there: God alone knows where each one is. Today’s feast celebrates the saints in heaven, holy men and women of every time and place: we hope some of our people are among them.
01 November, 2020. All Saints Day
01 November, 2020. All Saints Day 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 the four…
Presider’s Page for 25 October (Ordinary Time 30)
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.
25 October, 2020. 30th Sunday, Year A
25 October, 2020. 30th Sunday, Year 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 Mission Sunday, 18 October (Ordinary Time 29)
As God’s family in this place, we gather to worship. We offer our love, our support and our prayers to all the Christian communities throughout the world.
18 October, 2020. 29th Sunday, Year A
18 October, 2020. 29th Sunday, Year A 1st Reading: Isaiah 45:1, 4-6 Providence appointed king Cyrus to liberate Israel from the exile in Babylon Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have grasped to subdue nations before him and strip kings of their robes,…
Presider’s Page for 11 October (Ordinary Time 28)
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, which will sustain us when we walk in the valley of darkness.
11 October, 2020. 28th Sunday, Year A
11 October, 2020. 28th Sunday, Year A By baptism we are called to the weding feast in the kingdom of God. But somehow, we need get a wedding garment, to take our place at the feast. While the Gospel invites us to reflect on how we are doing, it is…
Presider’s Page for 4 October (Ordinary Time 27)
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. • Today is ‘Day for Life’ in Ireland, with the theme:…
04 October, 2020. 27th Sunday, Year A
04 October, 2020. 27th Sunday, Year 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…