26th July

Seventeenth Sunday Year A

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

During the week we had the Feast Day of Mary Magdelene, a woman recognised as notorious and very disturbed, but also someone who recognised her need of the help of the Lord Jesus. Through the love of Jesus, she started a new life becoming the first person to meet the risen Lord Jesus. She became a founding member of the Christian Church, using her wealth to look to the needs of the disciples and the needs of the poor. She is a supreme example of what the love of the Lord is capable of. She reminds us that in Christ there is always hope.

This Sunday is designated as being “World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly.” Grandparents are often a great support to their younger family members and for many their presence and help is utterly essential in the security of family life. They help to build the Kingdom of God amongst people everywhere. Their expertise and experience are invaluable. And of course, the elderly have a wisdom given to them by the years of observation and learning.

Please continue to pray for Marie Molloy, Dee Dutton and Eileen Frost whose funerals are taking place around this time. Please also remember their family and friends. Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and let perpetual light shine on them!

Take care during the holiday times, try and have some helpful and positive recreation and feel blessed and refreshed for the tasks ahead.

Father Anton s.c.j.