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21-27 JULY
ORDINARY TIME Schools National Tree Day Friday 26 July |
Sunday
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16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Luke 10:38-42 We know from John’s gospel that Martha and Mary were friends of Jesus, and that he was frequently in their home. Luke tells us nothing of this; perhaps it was not in the material available to him. However, he immortalises this incident that took place during one of Jesus’ visits, because he sees it as having a lesson for us all. Busy preparing special dishes for their guest, Martha feels left out. Jesus tells her not to go to so much trouble: one dish will be plenty. He then goes beyond this homely advice to remind Martha and those present that the ‘one thing necessary’ in life is finding the truth he is bringing them. Mary does not need to be reminded of this; she shows herself to be a true ‘disciple’. Mary sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to him Gospel Reflection Teacher's Background Image: Unity by the Shore from ttps://www.unitybytheshore.org No attribution required |
Monday
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Feast of Mary Magdalene
St. Mary Magdalene is one of the greatest saints of the Bible and a legendary example of God's mercy and grace. The precise dates of her birth and death are unknown, but we do know she was present with Christ during his public ministry, death and resurrection. She is mentioned at least a dozen times in the Gospels. Despite the scholarly dispute over her background, what she did in her subsequent life, after meeting Jesus, is much more significant. She was certainly a sinner whom Jesus saved, giving us an example of how no person is beyond the saving grace of God. Pray to Mary Magdalene: St. Mary Magdalene, woman of many sins, who by conversion became the beloved of Jesus, thank you for your witness that Jesus forgives through the miracle of love. You, who already possess eternal happiness in His glorious presence, please intercede for me, so that some day I may share in the same everlasting joy. Amen. Image: stux - Pixabay License Free for commercial use No attribution required |
Tuesday
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St Bridget of Sweden
Bridget, you were a woman of peace. You brought harmony where there was conflict. You brought light into darkness. You brought hope to the downcast. May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled or anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and our world. Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made. Bridget, you were a voice for the wounded and weary. Strengthen what is weak within us. Calm us into a stillness that heals and listens. May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit. Amen St Bridget Image: Catholicsaints.net |
Wednesday
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The Sign of the Cross
The sign of the Cross is probably the most often used prayer of Christians and for many, the first prayer they learned as children. “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.” Despite its simplicity, the sign of the Cross is an ancient prayer rich in meaning. It is believed that it was in use during the earliest days of Christianity. Use the linked resource to lead a reflection on the Sign of the Cross. Image: sspiehs3 Pixabay License Free for commercial use No attribution required |
Thursday
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Saint James
St. James the Greater Prayer O glorious Apostle, St. James, who by reason of thy fervent and generous heart wast chosen by Jesus to be a witness of His glory on Mount Tabor, and of His agony in Gethsemane; thou, whose very name is a symbol of warfare and victory: obtain for us strength and consolation in the unending warfare of this life, that, having constantly and generously followed Jesus, we may be victors in the strife and deserve to receive the victor's crown in heaven. Amen. Image: Guido Reni - bgH3Bqotg5nTTw at Google Cultural Institute |
friday
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Sts Joachim and Anne
It was in the home of Joachim and Ann where the Virgin Mary received her training to be the Mother of God. Thus, devotion to Ann and Joachim is an extension of the affection Christians have always professed toward our Blessed Mother. We, too, owe a debt of gratitude to our parents for their help in our Christian formation. Pray for our Parents: O Almighty God, you gave us the commandment to honour our father and mother. In your loving kindness hear my prayer for my parents whether they are with us or with you. Bless their labours; keep them always in your care. Bless them generously for their loving care for me. Grant that, through your grace, I may always be their support and comfort, and that, after our life together on earth, we may experience the joy together praising you forever. Image: geralt Pixabay License Free for commercial use No attribution required |
