Term 3 Week 26
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13-20 AUGUST
ORDINARY TIME |
Sunday
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19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Matthew 14: 22-33 Gospel Reflection Like the disciples, the community in Matthew’s time were aware of their separation from Jesus. However, they were separated by time and the conditions that affected them were waves of suspicion and persecution. The image of Jesus on the shoreline while the disciples fought against strong winds and intense seas must have been one that resonated. Sometimes they felt the strength and courage of Peter to step out of the boat and act as Jesus in their world, but at other times they questioned their capabilities. How does this speak to Christians today? What will make us get out of the boat? Praying with a phrase from a psalm- “Be with me Lord, when I am in trouble,” is a possible response to Psalm 91. Students may choose to repeat these words as they close their eyes and engage in the work of meditation. Other choices may be- “Jesus come to me,” “Be with me Lord,” “Strengthen my heart,” or simply- “Jesus.” |
Monday
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Here is some information about Saint Maximillian Kolbe and his story as a modern saint.
Maximilian Kolbe had a great devotion to Mary. Say or Sing the Hail Mary as a class; being mindful. Pray with an icon of Mary. Marian Icons |
Tuesday
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The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (966) quotes the Byzantine Liturgy: 'in your Dormition (the passing of the Virgin Mary from earthly life) you did not leave the world, but were joined to the source of Life.’ This is a powerful confirmation that body and spirit are an integrated whole. Mary's Assumption is an anticipation of resurrection to fullness of life. The Assumption reminds us of the dignity of the body. Try organising a body prayer today. Take a walk around your school, stopping at points along the way to pray for members of the community. Bless our teachers this day… Bless those who help us in the tuckshop… |
Wednesday
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What are you grateful for this week?
Listen to this song of gratitude and, as the words are sung, think of something you are grateful for and pray words like these in your hearts- ‘Thank you God for your many blessings to us, I am grateful.’ Image by Doug Brown. Used with permission ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) |
Thursday
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The Importance of Forgiveness
Today our focus for prayer will be on the daily gospel. We hear that Peter went up to Jesus and said, ‘Lord, how often must I forgive my brother if he wrongs me? As often as seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘Not seven times, I tell you, but seventy-seven times.’ We pray for peace in our hearts. All: We pray for peace. (Pause for 5 seconds) We pray for forgiveness from those we have hurt. All: We pray for forgiveness. (Pause for 5 seconds) We pray for a new start with each other. All: We pray for a new start. (Pause for 5 seconds) Let us make the Sign of the Cross slowly and reverently. All: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen Image by Russell Davies. Used with permission. Non-Commercial 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC 2.0) |
Friday
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Psalm 135: Praising God.
Let us pray with the ancient words. Leader: O give thanks to the Lord for God is good. All: God’s love is everlasting. Leader: Give thanks to the God of gods. All: God’s love is everlasting. Leader: Give thanks to the Lord of lords. All: God’s love is everlasting. Leader: Let us take a short time to praise God in our own hearts. If you have more time, you may try creating an image of love through simple art, or mindful colouring of a heart shape as you take a time of silent reflection. Image by Alberta and Me Used with permission. 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) |
Saturday
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Blessing Cloud
Think of and write a simple blessing for yourself, for a friend, for your family, for the world. For example: May I feel safe; May you be happy; May all people have food and water. I pray for these things. Amen. |