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Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 24-10-2021

When darkness surrounds us and our soul is blind and restless, we have to go to the Light, like Bartimaeus. Repeat, shout, cry out ever more strongly, Domine, ut videam! – Lord, that I may see. And daylight will dawn upon you, and you will be able to enjoy the brightness He grants you. The same Jesus who passed by Bartimaeusis alive today. The Good News is that no matter what has happened in our past, Jesus walks into the dusty streets of our lives this day. We simply need the eyes of living faith to see Him and the renewed heart to follow Him on the way. Prayer is the fuel which keeps living faith alive and keeps our eyes open to see. Where is Jesus passing through in our own lives? He always shows up for those who have their spiritual eyes opened to see Him. How about in our workplace? How about in our relationships? How about in our families? Are we running out to meet Him?

Catholic Productions For the Mass Readings on the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B),

Dr. Brant Pitre discusses the persistence of Blind Bartimaeus as Jesus was passing by to have Jesus heal him. As Dr. Pitre covers, Bartimaeus not only expresses the Messianic identity of Jesus — “Jesus, Son of David…” — but this scene also shows both how faith is efficacious — it has the capacity to actually do something — and how Jesus is enacting a New Exodus, the one that was foretold in the prophets. Along the way, Dr. Pitre will also discuss the Return of the Blind in the New Exodus as discussed in Jeremiah 31, which is the first reading for this Sunday’s Mass readings, linking the Gospel reading with the Old Testament reading.

Background on the Gospel Reading Mark 10:46-52 Jesus restores sight to the blind man, Bartimaeus

Today we continue to read from Mark’s Gospel. In this Gospel, we find evidence of Jesu’ fame in the sizable crowd that accompanies him as he journeys to Jerusalem. Jesus’ reputation as a healer has preceded him. When the blind man, Bartimaeus, hears that Jesus of Nazareth is passing by, he calls out to him, asking for his pity.

When Bartimaeus calls out to Jesus, the crowd around him tries to silence him. Yet Bartimaeus persists, calling out more loudly and with greater urgency. He will not be silenced or deterred from getting Jesus’ attention. We notice how quickly the crowd’s reaction changes when Jesus calls for Bartimaeus. Those who sought to quiet him now encourage him.

When Jesus restores Bartimaeus’s sight, no elaborate action is required. (In other healing stories in Mark’s Gospel, actions accompany Jesus’ words). In this instance, Jesus simply says that Bartimaeus’s faith has saved him. Throughout Mark’s Gospel, the success of Jesus’ healing power has often been correlated with the faith of the person requesting Jesus’ help. For example, it is because of her faith that the woman with the hemorrhage is healed. When faith is absent, Jesus is unable to heal; we see this after his rejection in Nazareth.

Once his sight has been restored, Bartimaeus follows Jesus on his way to Jerusalem. In Mark’s Gospel, Bartimaeus is the last disciple called by Jesus before he enters Jerusalem. Bartimaeus hears that Jesus of Nazareth is passing by, but he calls out to Jesus using words of faith—“Son of David.” Many in Jesus’ time believed that the anticipated Jewish Messiah would be a descendent of King David. Bartimaeus’s words prepare us for the final episodes of Mark’s Gospel, which begin with Jesus’ preparation for the Passover and his triumphant entry into Jerusalem. As Mark has shown us in our readings over the past few Sundays, however, Jesus will be the Messiah in a way that will be difficult for many to accept. Jesus will show himself to be the Messiah through his suffering and death.

Click this link to Hear Bishop Barron’s Podcast on this week’s gospel:

ARE YOU BLINDED BY CITIES OF SIN? CYCLE B ORDINARY TIME WEEK 30 by Bishop Robert Barron October 24th 2021

Friends, in today’s Gospel, we hear the marvelous story of the healing of blind Bartimaeus—an icon of tremendous power and a sacred picture of the spiritual life and the process of salvation. We all find ourselves, in our need of Christ, in this image, as our own blindness distorts our vision of spiritual reality and the meaning of life.

COMING HOME FROM EXILE

Our first reading from the prophet Jeremiah treats of a theme that is basic throughout the Bible: the motif of the return from exile. Like two great hinges on which the Old Testament turns are the stories of Exodus and Exile. Israel finds itself enslaved in Egypt, but God liberates the people; later, the northern tribes are carried off by the Assyrians; and later still, the southern tribes are carried off by the Babylonians. But exile was also a kind of spiritual metaphor, a trope for having wandered far from the Lord.

Gospel:  Mark 10:46-52 Go; your faith has saved you

As Jesus left Jericho with his disciples and a large crowd, Bartimaeus (that is, the son of Timaeus), a blind beggar, was sitting at the side of the road. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout and to say, ‘Son of David, Jesus, have pity on me.’ And many of them scolded him and told him to keep quiet, but he only shouted all the louder, ‘Son of David, have pity on me.’ Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him here.’ So they called the blind man. ‘Courage,’ they said ‘get up; he is calling you.’ So throwing off his cloak, he jumped up and went to Jesus. Then Jesus spoke, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ ‘Rabbuni,’ the blind man said to him ‘Master, let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your faith has saved you.’ And immediately his sight returned and he followed him along the road.

 Read today’s Readings here 

REFLECTION

Introductory Prayer: Lord, I believe in you with a faith that never seeks to test you. I trust in you, hoping to learn to accept and follow your will, even when it does not make sense to the way that I see things. I love you Lord. May my love for you and those around me be similar to the love you have shown to me.

Petition:  Christ Jesus, grant me the gift of faith.

1. The Lord Helps Those Who Help Themselves: Bartimaeus has character. As a beggar, he’s sharp enough to realise that it’s not good business to annoy the people he needs to beg from. Yet when Jesus passes nearby, he refuses to be silenced even when he’s rebuked by his “customers”. He’s driven by the certainty that Jesus can change his lot in life. Nobody, therefore, is going to keep Bartimaeus from his goal of meeting Christ. Do I have a similar kind of certitude that proximity to Our Lord is a necessity for me, that only he can heal my wounds and keep me on the right path towards heaven? Do I make sure nothing separates me from him?

“Jesus, Help Me!” Pope-Emeritus Benedict encourages us to look to the merciful heart of the Lord, “In our difficulties, problems and temptations, we must not simply engage in a theoretical reflection — from whence do they come? — but must react positively, invoking the Lord, maintaining a living contact with the Lord. Beyond that, we must cry out the name of Jesus, ‘Jesus, help me!’ And we may be sure that he listens to us, as he is near to those who seek him. Let us not be discouraged; rather, let us run with ardour…and we too will reach life, Jesus, the Lord” (Angelus, February 8, 2006).

The Gift of Faith: The faith of the blind beggar was what allowed Christ to cure him. Faith is not something that we can earn or acquire through willpower or sheer effort. Faith is a gift. This gift must be sought in humble and constant prayer. We have all received this gift through baptism, but it is a gift that needs to grow. “Lord, increase my faith!”

Conversation with Christ: Thank you, Lord! Like the sight you gave to Bartimaeus, you have given me so many graces and special favours, beginning with the amazing gift of my Catholic faith. From the heart I thank you for so much love.

Resolution: I will pray with perseverance and trust for those virtues I most need, especially for the gift of faith to see Christ acting in my daily life.

Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 24-10-2021

Jesus and Bartimaeus! A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time, cycle B. Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm…​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic Kids Media

Children Reflect on today’s readings:  Jesus’ tells them It’s a time to answer God’s question: “What do you want from me?”

Gospel:  Mark 10:46-52 Go; your faith has saved you

“As Jesus left Jericho with his disciples and a large crowd, Bartimaeus (that is, the son of Timaeus), a blind beggar, was sitting at the side of the road. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout and to say, ‘Son of David, Jesus, have pity on me.’ And many of them scolded him and told him to keep quiet, but he only shouted all the louder, ‘Son of David, have pity on me.’ Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him here.’ So they called the blind man. ‘Courage,’ they said ‘get up; he is calling you.’ So throwing off his cloak, he jumped up and went to Jesus. Then Jesus spoke, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ ‘Rabbuni,’ the blind man said to him ‘Master, let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your faith has saved you.’ And immediately his sight returned and he followed him along the road.”

The Kids Bulletin: – 30th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year B

In Jesus’ time, the crippled and the blind shared a common fate. Their only source of income was begging. People willingly gave them money, considering it a godly act to share with the poor, but they still looked down on beggars. After all, why were they crippled? Was it because they had sinned? Would God punish people who were truly righteous? The crowds would have been used to beggars like Bartimaeus, who sat alongside the road that thousands of pilgrims took from Jericho to Jerusalem for the Passover feast. They would’ve tossed a coin his way without a word or acknowledgement that he was human. That’s the way it was. Beggars got used to it. Until Jesus came along…

IMAGINE IT:

Bartimaeuss at at the side of the road, clutching a beggar’s pouch. Pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem for Passover tried to ignore him, their sandals crunching past on a path covered with pebbles and dry, dusty dirt. He listened as men and women conversed about the beautiful wildflowers that coloured the surrounding hills and the temple that glistened in the distance. I wonder what it all looks like, he thought as he breathed in the fragrance of the lilies. Someone threw him a coin. Grateful as Bartimaeus was for the gift, he couldn’t help but feel empty. None of the pilgrims ever spoke to him. He sighed. Being blind didn’t bother him half as much as the way that people passed him by.

Be content…at least you aren’t an unclean leper… told himself.

Laughing children skipped past the beggar. Mother’s with young-sounding voices followed, their robes swishing in the breeze. Bartimaeus listened as they talked about a man named Jesus. I hear he can heal the sick…He’s a miracle worker…the mothers said. Countless times, while sitting by this road,  Bartimaeus had turned his ear to hear similar stories. “I wish I could meet this Jesus” the beggar said. No one paid attention to him.

Cartoon Bartimaeous

Bartimaeus heard the clomping of donkey and the sounds of more and more people. The crowd was becoming bigger, noisier. He felt someone kick his foot, muttering, “Move out of the way beggar!” He scrambled back, accustomed to being ordered about. But then, he tugged on the robe of a man standing right in front of him. “Please, kind sir, what is happening?” The man ignored him, so Bartimaeus asked again, excitedly, “Why is the crowd growing louder?” “It’s Jesus—Jesus of Nazareth is coming.” The man shouted.

Jesus? What if Jesus could heal me? Bartimaeus cried out: “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” But his voice was quickly drowned out by the crowd. “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” He called out again. Soon the people around him grew irritated with his loud pleas for help. “Shush! Stop your yelling!” A woman told him. “Quiet—Hush! Jesus has no time for the likes of you,” whirled the voices all around him. It was no use. How could Jesus hear the cries of a beggar, hidden from sight behind the throngs who crowded the roadway?

Then, like a rush of air, silence fell over the crowd. “Jesus wants to talk with the blind man,” someone said. “He’s calling you, beggar. Quick, on your feet” said another man. Bartimaeus could hear the sounds of people moving to different sides of the road, like the Red sea parting. Then, the sound of slow-moving footsteps, walking toward him. “Jesus?” Bartimaeus asked his throat now raw from shouting. Shaking, he tried to get to his feet, but caught a toe in the folds of his cloak. No matter. Someone’s hand reached out to help him untangle himself. Someone’s hand helped him to rise. Someone’s hand stayed clasped in his.

“Bartimaeus, What do you want from me?” a man asked. His voice was warm and kind. Bartimaeus tried to catch his breath. He knew he was standing in front of Jesus “Rabbi, I want to see…” the blind man said in almost a whisper. Bartimaeus felt the hands of Jesus touch his eyes. Ever so slowly, he began to see colours, reds and greens and blues. “Flowers!” The blind man proclaimed as he pointed to the hillsides. The crowd watched in amazement as a stunned Bartimaeus gazed at the rocks on the road and the sun that shone above. Then, turning his glance toward Jesus, Bartimaeus studied the face of the one who had restored his sight. “Go” Jesus told him. “Your faith has healed you.”

Bartimaeus mouthed words of thanks, but no sounds came out. He spun around, toward where he had been sitting. Off in the distance, he saw the rooftops of Jerusalem, the City of David, gleaming. “I’ve only imagined the temple in my dreams” he said, his eyes misting. Several children gathered around him while their mother’s looked on. “C’mon, the children told the healed man. “We’ll show you the way to Jerusalem.”

Bartimeus 2

LIVE IT:

At times, we all find ourselves sitting on the roadside of life, blinded by the unexpected challenges that fill our days. But like Bartimaeus, Jesus always notices us, especially when we need a miracle. Every Day is a time to listen closely for the footsteps of our saviour and to clasp our hands tightly in his. It’s a time to answer God’s question: “What do you want from me?”

Closing prayer: Dear Father, we thank you for the gift of sight, but more than that, we thank you that one day we will see you in heaven. Amen.

 Read today’s Readings here

How can I come to see God?

Reflecting on the Reading with Children

 As this was a long, long time ago, what do you think Bartimaeus’ life would have been like, as a blind beggar? What sort of belongings might he have had?
 Why do you think the crowds told him to be quiet and stop calling to Jesus? [It may be worth reminding the children of the people we have heard about in recent weeks who did not want children brought to Jesus, who thought Jesus was going to be an important political leader.]
 How brave was it of Bartimaeus to leave his cloak—possibly the only thing he owned—to go to Jesus when he called? Do you think you could be that brave?

 Read today’s Readings here

Family Connection

Today’s Gospel offers us a powerful example of faith and persistence in prayer. Those around him rebuked Bartimaeus for his efforts to attract Jesus’ attention. When silenced by the crowd, however, Bartimaeus called out all the more. He is persistent and bold in his confidence that Jesus will show mercy on him and do what he asks. His persistence and great confidence that Jesus would help him reminds us of the confidence with which our children bring to us their needs. In their faith and trust we can find an example of the attitude with which we might approach God in prayer.

As a family, recall a request that has been made repeatedly by one family member to another. Talk about why the request continues to be made if the answer continues to be no. Then read together today’s Gospel, Mark 10:46-52. After reading the Gospel, pose questions such as these to your family: Why must Bartimaeus be persistent in calling out to Jesus? (Some people in the crowd are telling him to be quiet.) What does Bartimaeus do when some try to stop him? (He calls out to Jesus all the more.) When Jesus stops and calls for him, what does Jesus do and say? (He restores Bartimaeus’s sight; Jesus tells Bartimaeus his faith has saved him.) When we pray, God wants us to be so confident he will help us that we don’t permit anyone to keep us from bringing our needs to God in prayer. Invite family members to identify the things they need most from God. Pray these prayers of petition together as a family, confident that God will hear and answer your prayers. Respond to each petition, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on us.” Conclude by praying the Glory Be to the Father.

Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 24-10-2021

Seeing the Son of David: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today’s Gospel turns on an irony—it is a blind man, Bartimaeus, who becomes the first person outside of the Apostles to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. And his healing is the last miracle Jesus performs before entering the holy city of Jerusalem for His last week on earth.

The scene on the road to Jerusalem evokes the joyful procession prophesied by Jeremiah in today’s First Reading. In Jesus this prophecy is fulfilled. God, through the Messiah, is delivering His people from exile, bringing them back from the ends of the earth, with the blind and lame in their midst.

Jesus, as Bartimaeus proclaims, is the long-awaited Son promised to David (see 2 Samuel 7:12–16; Isaiah 11:9; Jeremiah 23:5). Upon His triumphal arrival in Jerusalem, all will see that the everlasting kingdom of David has come (see Mark 11:9–10).

As we hear in today’s Epistle, the Son of David was expected to be the Son of God (see Psalm 2:7). He was to be a priest-king like Melchizedek (see Psalm 110:4), who offered bread and wine to God Most High at the dawn of salvation history (see Genesis 14:18–20).

Bartimaeus is a symbol of his people, the captive Zion of whom we sing in today’s Psalm. His God has done great things for him. All his life has been sown in tears and weeping. Now, he reaps a new life.

Bartimaeus, too, should be a sign for us. How often Christ passes us by—in the person of the poor, in the distressing guise of a troublesome family member or burdensome associate (see Matthew 25:31–46)—and yet we don’t see Him.

Christ still calls to us through His Church, as Jesus sent His Apostles to call Bartimaeus. Yet how often are we found to be listening instead to the voices of the crowd, not hearing the words of His Church.

Today He asks us what He asks Bartimaeus: “What do you want me to do for you?” Rejoicing, let us ask the same thing of Him—what can we do for all that He has done for us?

 Read today’s Readings here

Newsletter: 17th October 2021 – 29th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year B

My Dearest Parishioners, Visitors, Friends – Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ

Our Second Readings on Sunday – By way of explanation.

In the Liturgy of the Word each week, it should be noted that the second reading has no connection to the First Reading, the Psalm, or the Gospel. When preparing a homily, it is for the homilist to either concentrate upon the Second reading on its own merit, or the First and Gospel which have unity of purpose. On occasion an aspect of the second reading may fit in to part of the Gospel, but rarely is it the case. The Second reading is also a whole section of an epistle and week on week it follows on from the previous week. They are chosen because of the light they shed on the mystery of Christ and the salvation celebrated by the liturgy.

From the twenty-seventh Sunday to the Thirty-third, we read excerpts from the Epistle to the Hebrews, which happens to be one of the longest in the New Testament (309 verses) second to The Epistle to the Romans (433 verses). To be frank it is more of an apology of the faith rather than a letter. Its author is not known, stylistically it is not by the hand of Saint Paul, some have suggested it to be by Apollos. The group to whom it is addressed, although Hebrew, do not seem to be of any specific place in the known world, hence the conclusion of it being more of an apology or treatise than of a letter which would be sent to a particular place. The content has raised several problems with hints of Platonism in it which need not concern us. In the main the subject matter is very much of the Temple sacrifice which would be a familiar subject to those of the Jewish Temple mind set. This is helped by it being full of subtle symbolism that is used to interpret ancient texts and events to suggest a connection to the earthly and heavenly reality of sacrifice. All of this makes it quite complex in places.

All that aside though, it is a treasury of doctrinal and spiritual wealth and the excerpts over the next few Sundays give a good sample of the letter. Four main lines of reflection are that the Son of God, through whom the Father speaks, is above all creation and so we must cling to his teaching which is the source of our salvation. We are also encouraged to reject greed, and ‘strange teachings.’ There are a series of points about fraternal love, marriage, poverty and docility to leaders and the crux of this is that Jesus is the true and uniquely compassionate High Priest.

with Blessings Father Simon

Today, once more, Jesus overturns our schemes. Stirred by James and John, these words full of wisdom reach us: “The Son of Man, (…) has not come to be served but to serve and to give his life” (Mark 10:45). We certainly like to be properly served! Let us just think of how we can expect all public services to be efficient, punctual and clean; or how we can complain when, having paid for a certain service, we do not receive the expected compensation. Jesus Christ teaches us with his own example: He not only does his Father’s will, that includes our Redemption, but on top of it He bears a terrible cost! It is with his Blood through which our sins have been redeemed. A great paradox we shall never fully understand! He, the great King, the Son of David, who was to come in the name of the Lord, “rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; (…) becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross” (Phil 2:7-8).

How expressive are the images of Christ on the Cross donning garments befitting a King nailed to the Cross! In our country (Catalonia) we have quite a few; it is what we call “Santes Majestats” (Their Most Holy Majesties). In a sort of catechesis, we can appreciate how to serve is to reign and how the exercise of any authority must always be a service.

Jesus overturns so much this world’s categories that He gives an entire new approach to human activities. The most praiseworthy assignment is no better than the smallest job we can carry out to identify ourselves with Christ; with more love for God and for our brothers. If we truly believe that “no one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13), then we can also make the effort of offering with our work a service of human quality and professional competence, imbued with a profound Christian attitude of service.

As mother Teresa of Calcutta used to say: “The fruit of silence is prayer, the fruit of prayer is faith, the fruit of faith is love, the fruit of love is service, the fruit of service is peace”.

REFLECTION

Introductory Prayer: Lord Jesus, your apostles longed to follow you. You want to show me the difference between earthly and heavenly glory. For you, what matters is not being at Christ’s right or left but sharing in his redemptive work. As I kneel before you today, I want to offer myself and all of today’s struggles and efforts as a sign of my friendship and love.

Petition: Lord Jesus, help me to learn how to be a Christian leader.

Gentile Rulers, AKA, the Bossy Soul: People who “make their authority felt” have a variety of ways to do so. Sometimes they thank you for your good idea and then proceed to tell you why it would never work. Their approach is sometimes subtle — a quiet reminder of potential negative consequences. Other times it can be a shout to help focus attention. We all know people like this, people who boss others around. Maybe we’re even one of them…. Jesus has only one answer for this outlook — his own example: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.…” Jesus is Lord, but he wasn’t bossy!

If Not a Gulp, at Least a Sip: For James and John to follow Christ, they will have to “drink the cup” that the Lord will drink. What is this cup? Fast forward to Gethsemane: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me” (Luke 22:42). Jesus’ own human nature struggled with the implications of full adherence to God’s plan. Ultimately, he would drink that cup — one of bitter suffering, to the very dregs. He called James and John to imitate him. He is inviting us as well. Fortunately, he prepares our souls to be generous. He guides us to greater spiritual maturity, offering us little “sips” from his cup. The small sufferings of daily life purify our souls.

Servant Leadership: Jesus’ life was a “ransom for many.” He was the servant of Yahweh and, as such, he constantly served others in their most profound needs. Jesus met people where they were the weakest: he helped the blind regain their sight, the lame to walk, lepers to be cleansed, the deaf to hear, the dead to rise, and to the poor he preached the good news (Cf. Matthew 11:5). A leader has vision, but unless he is a servant leader, he may see only his vision. We cannot allow ourselves to be out of touch with the needs of those around us. Let us strive to serve others by meeting them on their level.

Conversation with Christ: Thank you, Lord, for this time of prayer. I have seen how you formed James and John. Through humble service of my neighbour, help me to go to the next level.

Resolution: I will perform a hidden act of charity for someone whom I find bothersome.

Service Times from Saturday Oct 16th 2021  until Oct 23rd 2021 
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    Download this week's Newsletter here: Newsletter: 17th October 2021 - 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
    DateLocationlinks to readings and Services
    Sunday 17th October 2021 29th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle BSt Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 17-10-2021
    Monday18th October 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 18-10-2021
    Tuesday 19th October 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 19-10-2021
    Wednesday 20th October 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 20-10-2021
    Thursday 21st October 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 21-10-2021
    Friday 22nd October 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 22-10-2021
    Saturday 23rd October 2021St Swithuns / OLOL Click Link for Service details for today 23-10-2021
    Sunday 24th October 2021 30th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle B
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 24-10-2021

     

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    Thoughts on Today's Gospel and Readings for the Week - 17-10-2021

    Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 17-10-2021

    Many of us have relatives or friends ‘on the missions’. The call of Jesus ‘to serve’ in today’s gospel has inspired many to leave home and try to spread faith in Jesus Christ and the teaching of the gospel among people not their own. Missionaries, whether full-time or part-time volunteers, have a double approach, and their work is often mainly in care for the poor in education, hospital care, work for peace, work among refugees; it is also in introducing the gospel in the spread of the Christian faith, and in developing our young churches. I visited a poor community in north east India for the opening of their church; they had pride in this achievement, and gratitude also for the school and medical centre run by the Church. Today we salute the missionaries of our country and promise them our prayers, and as we can, our financial support. ‘Sharing ...
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    Cartoon James and John

    Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 17-10-2021

    Power and Honor? A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time, cycle B .Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm...​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic Kids Media Children Reflect on today's readings:  Jesus' tells them to be humble and server others  In Sunday’s Gospel: Mark 10:35-45, two disciples, James and John, suggest to Jesus that they would like to be seen as more important than the other disciples. Jesus tells all his disciples they should be humble. He tells them they should not act like great leaders who have full power over the people they rule – Jesus lived in the Holy Land when it was ruled by the Romans. Instead, he told them, they should not assume they are more important than anyone else, but act as servants to others; humble and helpful to others in all they do. Jesus’ message ...
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    Cup of Salvation

    Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 17-10-2021

    Cup of Salvation: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time The sons of Zebedee hardly know what they’re asking in today’s Gospel. They are thinking in terms of how the Gentiles rule, of royal privileges and honors. But the road to Christ’s kingdom is by way of His Cross. To share in His glory, we must be willing to drink the cup that He drinks. The cup is an Old Testament image for God’s judgment. The wicked would be made to drink this cup in punishment for their sins (see Psalm 75:9; Jeremiah 25:15, ; Isaiah 51:17). But Jesus has come to drink this cup on behalf of all humanity. He has come to be baptized—which means plunged or immersed—into the sufferings we all deserve for our sins (compare Luke 12:50). In this He will fulfill the task of Isaiah’s suffering servant, whom we read about in today’s First Reading. Like Isaiah’s ...
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    Commentary on Isaiah 53:10-11; Hebrews 4:14-16; Mark 10:35-45

    Commentary on Isaiah 53:10-11; Hebrews 4:14-16; Mark 10:35-45

    OFTEN, IT IS SAID, when looking for a job it is not what you know but whom you know that counts most. In China, people often speak of guanxi, "connections" with people in the right places. Today we see two brothers, who belong to the innermost circle of Jesus’ disciples, trying to exert their guanxi. Their opening gambit seems a quite modest request: "Master, we want you to something for us." As a question it is an opening for which we probably have fallen many times: "Could you do something for me?" Jesus is not so easily duped. He counters with another question: "What do you want me to do for you?" We should remember this question because it is going to come up again in next Sunday’s Mass. But it is also a question we should hear Jesus asking us now. Let us give the answer today and see ...
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    Fr. Simon – First Communion Programme and Catechists Update

    First Communion Programme and Catechists - 20th October 2021

    I would like to invite all current catechists to a meeting at 6pm on Wednesday 20th October at the presbytery. I am very sorry that this programme has not begun; it is scheduled to begin around the first Sunday of Advent, and notice will be given in this bulletin.  If you worship in this Parish please be sure to check this newsletter for further information. Attendance at Mass is an ...
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    Fr. Simon – Baptism Preparation Programme 2021-22

    Baptism Preparation

    Baptism Classes for St Swithun's  & Our Lady of Lourdes Parish

    There will be classes for those wishing to have their child baptised beginning at 6pm on 19th October at the presbytery, please ensure that you have completed and returned your form prior to the meeting. Further details can be found online. In asking to have a child baptised, the parents are accepting the responsibility of training the child in the practice of the Christian faith. It is the ...
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    Good News – THE ASCENT GROUP RE-START MEETING MONDAY THE 25th OF OCTOBER

    Dear Ascent Group Good News – THE ASCENT GROUP RE-START MEETING MONDAY THE 25th OF OCTOBER The Ascent Group 're-start' meeting will take place on Monday the 25th of October from 2-15 pm in St Swithuns Church Hall. This will be the first meeting for the Group post Lock-down and a warm welcome will be there for all members who are able to attend. A warm welcome for those also who may wish to attend to find out about ...
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    Bishop Philip – Preparing for COP26

    In November, governments from across the world are gathering in Glasgow – and the Holy Father too will be attending - to discuss how to tackle the climate emergency at COP26. It’s vital for the Catholic community to demand that our leaders act now to protect our common home. The destruction of our land, oceans and forests is threatening people's homes and their ability to earn a living, together with climate change that threatens the world’s poorest. What might we ...
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    A Welcome from the Reverend Simon Canon Treloar

    It's been a whirlwind start to my coming to serve as your parish priest and there is a lot to do in this wonderful parish. I thought I'd give you a bit of background on who I am as a lot you you may be wondering !!! I have been a priest serving in the Diocese of Wrexham for sixteen years. I offered myself to serve the Church whilst I was finishing a Masters in Ecology at Bangor University ...
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    Fr. Simon – Extraordinary Ministers of Communion Meeting 21st October 2021

    Extraordinary Ministery Extraordinary Ministers of Communion Meeting 21st October 2021 Thank you to those who have been EM’s in the past, it is a very worthwhile ministry to the people of the parish especially the elderly and the sick, who enjoy keeping contact with the worshipping community. There is a requirement for safeguarding and our safeguarding officer will be invited to the meeting which we hope to hold Thursday 21st October at 6pm. Please confirm by email your attendance and I ...
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    Glorious Ruins Hillsong

    Hymn for Today: Lyrics – To be like you – Hillsong – Glorious Ruins

    To be like you - Hillsong - Glorious Ruins Glorious Ruins is the twenty-second album in the live praise and worship series of Christian Contemporary music by Hillsong Church. It was recorded live in London, England, and Sydney, Australia by the Hillsong worship team from around the world including Reuben Morgan, Joel Houston, Ben Fielding, UNITED band, and international teams from London, Stockholm, and Cape Town. The album includes 12 songs including "Man of Sorrows", "Glorious Ruins", "Christ Is Enough", "Anchor", and "You Crown the Year". It was released on 28 June 2013 in Australia and New Zealand and on 2 July 2013 internationally.[1][2] The album ...
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    Philip Kosloski - Bl. Carlo Acutis: His life, his miracles and his legacy

    Philip Kosloski – Bl. Carlo Acutis: His life, his miracles and his legacy

    The "computer geek" saint is an inspiration to both young and old. Ever since his death in 2006, Carlo Acutis’ story has captivated the world. The simple holiness of the teenage saint remains an inspiration to all, highlighting the truth that anyone can achieve holiness, no matter their state in life. Here is a brief list of the most viewed articles on Aleteia about Bl. Carlo Acutis that help explain his life, miracles and legacy. You can click on the links below to learn more information. The life of Bl. Carlo Acutis Born to a simple family, Carlo was a friend ...
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    Fr. Simon Herrmann, OSB - A monk explains how he chose his new name

    Fr. Simon Herrmann, OSB – A monk explains how he chose his new name

    Father Simon Says: My name was not always Simon! I’ve had the same coworkers for a few years now, but three different names. Folks at the office went from calling me Tim, to Brother Simon, and now Father Simon. People from my hometown in Ohio lost track. Many thought that after I was ordained, I would be known as Father Tim. Most of my family still calls me Tim or Uncle Tim, and when people realize I am a Benedictine monk and a priest, they are stumped and still call me Brother Simon. Are you confused yet? Let me explain ...
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    Politics and Religion: A Symposium - November 6th 2021

    Politics and Religion: A Symposium – November 6th 2021

    Tickets are selling fast for the (online) Symposium on Politics and Religion. It takes place on Saturday 6th November, and boasts an exciting line-up of speakers and topics A day long symposium to examine whether religion should have a role in politics today. This online event is organised by Sector for Cultural Dialogue Team on behalf of the Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth and will include a series of key note addresses, workshops and a panel discussion. Key Note Speakers include the Rt Hon Jacob Rees-Mogg MP and Ruth Kelly MP, the former Education Secretary. Workshop facilitators include Lord David Alton, Rt ...
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    Church Flowers

    Flower Arranger’s Rota and volunteers Needed

    Flower Arranger’s Rota and volunteers - Update 17-10-2021 Thank you so much to all who have shown such dedication in decorating our church with flowers, the team of seven ladies met on Tuesday and discussed all feasts including Christmas decorations. It is still not too late to join especially if you are willing to arrange flowers at Our Lady of Lourdes where assistance is needed, please. If you could share your talents in this way, please contact Rosemary Devonald for St. Swithun’s church and Sally Reis. Fr. Simon writes.... October 10th 2021  Thank you so much to all who have ...
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    Gifts-of-the-Holy-Spirit

    The £64,000 question is: which two men are more alike?

    Consider this thought experiment. Three men are standing side-by-side. The one in the centre is a married Catholic layman. The one to the right is a Catholic priest. The one to the left is a married man who doesn’t believe in God. The £64,000 question is: which two men are more alike? If you tried to answer that question by watching their every move for a week (let’s imagine you had DVD’s of their lives, like a reality show), you might conclude that the two married men have the most in common. After all, when each of these husbands returns ...
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    Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year

    Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 17th October 2021 till the 30th November 2021

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    CLICK HERE – NEW SECTION: LINK TO THE LATEST PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE E_NEWSLETTER

    UPDATE ON FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME FOR THIS NEW YEAR 2021

    I would like to invite all current catechists to a meeting at 6pm on Wednesday 20th October at the presbytery. I am very sorry that this programme has not begun; it is scheduled to begin around the first Sunday of Advent, and notice will be given in this bulletin. If you worship in this Parish please be sure to check this newsletter for further information. Attendance at Mass is an expectation and requirement.

    Many thanks Fr. Simon

    FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2022: The Applications to register for the preparation for The First Sacrament of Confession & Holy Communion are available in the sacristy after Sunday Masses

    Note the form will appear online shortly (The 2021-22 programme is open only to children born on or before 31.8.2014)

    UPDATE ON BAPTISM REQUESTS  & CLASSES

    There will be classes for those wishing to have their child baptised beginning at 6pm on 19th October at the presbytery, please ensure that you have completed and returned your form prior to the meeting. Further details can be found online

    Many thanks Fr. Simon

    • If you need a copy of Baptism certificate please contact the Parish Office.
    • If you want to get someone baptised then feel free to make an appointment with father Marcin.

    For those who would like to arrange a Baptism for their child:

    – Please collect a Baptism Application Form from the porch of the church (or found on the Parish Website);
    – Read carefully what is expected form the Parents and Godparents of a child for this Sacrament;
    – Contact Parish Priest to arrange the very first meeting of getting now each other and to make the individual decision about the process of the preparation;

    Prayer of the Month – October 2021

    Pope Francis Prayer Intentions October 2021 – Missionary Disciples

    Intention for evangelization – Missionary disciples

    We pray that every baptized person may be engaged in evangelization, available to the mission, by being witnesses of a life that has the flavour of the Gospel.

    Prayer of the Month – October 2021

    Lord Jesus Christ, who calls us to be apostles of your mission,
    We come today to offer you our lives, what we are and what we have.
    We want to work with you in your mission of compassion,
    be faithful to the missionary vocation received in baptism,
    allowing ourselves to be led by the Holy Spirit.
    Help us to be living witnesses of your Gospel,
    celebrating the life that we receive in You;
    going out of ourselves to encounter our brothers and sisters.
    Receive our will to be open to serve with others for your Father’s Kingdom.
    Amen.

    Pray for those of our Own Parish:

    Funeral service of Margaret Elizabeth Christie will be held at Our Lady Of Lourdes Church on Tuesday 19th October, all are welcome. Margaret has been a parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes for many years and we send condolences to her lovely family. There will no Mass on Tue at St Swithun’s this week

    Please pray for those who are ill especially: Caroline Bennett, Robert & Eileen Steward, Louie Muscat, Tony & Julie Duffy, Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Pam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Kathleen & Kevin Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Stan Whitnell, Patrick McCreesh, Eddie Coppani, Tony Denny, Betty Foster, Bobby, Eileen Stewart, Joan Smith, John Williams, Margaret Bager, Fred Vuksani, Tom & Lily, Greta Kemp, Magda K, Mary Wallis, Micheline Thompson, Pat Needham, Margaret Badger, Anne Sullivan, Josephine Butler.

    And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 17th Oct 2021:  Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

    May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the Mercy of God rest in peace. Amen 

     Community Pray:

    House of Prayer Portsmouth have been praying for the city and feel that God is asking for the churches in the city to prayer walk their boundaries. We would like to invite you as a congregation to walk the boundary of your parish to pray God’s blessing and bring hope, healing and awakening to the area. The Holy Rosary is absolutely perfect for this initiative. You can join the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/937798273059418/

     

    October Month of the Holy Rosary

    OCTOBER: The Most Holy Rosary

    October is dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, which is celebrated each year, commemorates the great navy victory of the Christians over the Turks in 1571. At that battle, the Battle of Lepanto, sixty-five thousand men prayed the Rosary for three hours and took part in the Sacraments and Traditional Devotions. And, the Christian army prevailed that day against the Turks, although they were outnumbered by a 3:1 ratio. Following the colossal victory of the Christians, the Turks never fully recovered and never again threatened the Mediterranean Sea. Pope Pius V established the ...
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    The Rosary is the weapon for these times Padre Pio

    Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina – “The Rosary is a Weapon”

    Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina - "The Rosary is a Weapon" How true! With the Rosary, we can fight the powers of Satan, which foster sin, hatred, and war. The Rosary is the weapon of the Church in proclaiming unity and peace. All mankind is called to be part of the One, Universal Faith, and we are called to pray together. The Rosary has been called the second greatest prayer, second only to the Holy Mass. "The Rosary is the scourge of the devil," wrote Pope Adrian V. ...
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    MARY IN OUR LIFE Fr. William Most

    Mary in our Life by Fr. William G. Most

    Mary in our Life by Fr. William G. Most "Today, when dangers far greater than those of the ancient Turks threaten not only Christianity but all civilisation, we are urged by our Blessed Mother to turn again to the Rosary for help. If men in sufficient numbers do this, and at the same time carry out the other conditions that she has laid down, we have the greater reason for confidence that we will be delivered from our dangers." --  We are all called to be children of the One True God. And, the disappointing thing in our world is that ...
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    Our Lady of Fatima Pray for Us

    Our Blessed Lady at Fatima – “I am the Lady of the Rosary”

    Our Blessed Lady at Fatima - "I am the Lady of the Rosary" On May 13, 1917, the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children in Fatima and continued to appear on the 13th of each month until October of 1917. On the first day the children saw "a lady, clothed in white, brighter than the sun, radiating a light more clear and intense than a crystal cup filled with sparkling water, lit by burning sunlight." Mary's request was clear, "I have come to ask you to come here for six months on the 13th day of the month, at ...
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    Our Lady of Fatima – The Miracle of the Sun

    The Blessed Mother appeared to three small-town children in Portugal in 1917, calling on the world to repent and say the Rosary. On October 13, 1917, Mary appeared again to the three children at Fatima and said, "I want to tell you that a chapel is to be built here in my honour. I am the Lady of the Rosary. Continue always to pray the Rosary every day. The war is going to end, and the soldiers will soon return to their homes." By then there were thousands of witnesses. Mary also said, "Do not offend the Lord our God any more, ...
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    15 Promises of reciting the Holy Rosary

    The Fifteen Promise of Our Lady of the Rosary

    Thus, I implore all of you to pray the Rosary as Our Lady, Mother Mary, asked of us. Please make it part of your daily prayers. Remember and truly contemplate the 15 promises of Mary to those that pray the Rosary:
    1. Whoever shall faithfully serve me by the recitation of the rosary, shall receive signal graces.
    2. I promise my special protection and the greatest graces to all those who shall recite the rosary.
    3. The rosary shall be a powerful armor against hell, it will destroy vice, decrease sin, and defeat heresies.
    4. It will cause virtue and good works to ...
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    Pope John Paul II and the Holy Rosary

    The Rosary and the Liturgical Year

    The Rosary and the Liturgical Year The Rosary had its origin in the liturgical mentality of former ages. Even at the present time it is called "Mary's Psalter." There still are Catholics who consider the 150 Hail Marys a substitute for the 150 psalms for those persons who neither have the time, the education, nor the opportunity to pray the Hours of the Divine Office. Thus "Mary's Psalter" is a shortened, simplified "breviary" — alongside the common Hour-prayer of the Church. — The Church's Year of Grace, Dr. Pius Parsch The Rosary is Christocentric setting forth the entire life of Jesus ...
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    Pope John Paul II prays the Holy Rosary

    The Rosary and the Popes

    The Rosary and the Popes No form of extra-liturgical devotion to Mary is more widely practiced among the faithful or found by them to be more satisfyingly complete than the Rosary, which has come to be regarded as the very badge of Catholic piety. No form of extra-liturgical devotion to Mary has been recommended more warmly or frequently by the Popes. With perhaps two exceptions, all the Sovereign Pontiffs from Sixtus IV in 1478 down to John XXIII, especially Leo XIII (in 23 documents, ten of them encyclicals entirely on the Rosary) and his successors, have extolled this form of ...
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    Holy Rosary

    The Mysteries of the Rosary

    The Mysteries of the Rosary Until about the 15th century hundreds of mysteries were part of the Rosary devotion then the 15 mysteries that we know today were definitively fixed as "the Mysteries of the Rosary." Pope John Paul II, in his encyclical, Rosarium Virginis Mariae, in 2002 added the five Luminous Mysteries. Through the meditations of the complete Rosary one recalls and has impressed on his mind, the Popes tell us, "the chief mysteries of the Christian religion," "the mysteries of our Redemption," "the great mysteries of Jesus and His Mother united in joys, sorrows, and triumphs." The twenty mysteries are ...
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    Saint Dominic Guzman and the Holy Rosary

    Saint Dominic Guzman and the Holy Rosary

    Saint Dominic Guzman and the Holy Rosary The Rosary is attributed to Saint Dominic Guzman in the 1200's. Saint Dominic Guzman was an Augustian priest and worked for clerical reform. By age 26, Saint Dominic Guzman was fighting the Albigensian Heresy, which taught that there are two Gods, marriage is a sin, and denied the Trinity, incarnation and redemption. While many others had failed to stop the spread of the heresy, Saint Dominic Guzman succeeded. In 1208, Saint Dominic Guzman knelt in the little chapel of Notre Dame de La Prouille and asked Mary, the Mother of God, to save ...
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    Bishop Philip - Outcomes From the Diocesan Survey - Faith

    Bishop Philip – Outcomes From the Diocesan Survey – Faith

    As we journey in faith together ‘A Thousand Voices: The views, hopes and fears of the lay faithful in the Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth’ Some months ago, I issued a survey to understand better what you the people and parishioners of our diocese think and what you consider is important ...
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    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    The Eucharist

    Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

    pentecost

    Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

     

    OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

    Electronic offertory: If you have not managed to set up your electronic giving yet, please can you do so as soon as possible.
    The Parish Bank Account details are: Account Name (Lloyd’s Bank’): PRCDTR Our Lady of Lourdes’ & St Swithun Church Sort Code: 30-93-04; parish Account no: 01730453.

    Financial assistance: If you are able to increase your usual weekly offering (during this time of uncertainty) it will be a huge help to the parish. Even the slightest increase will be a help – THANK YOU!

    You can donate via the button on the Parish website – or here 

    Standing Order and  other useful Information

     Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

    Lloyds Bank : sort code 30-93-04 ; Account number 01730453 (Cheques mad payable to: PRCDTR Our Lady & St. Swithun)

    with Blessings Canon Simon Treloar

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    Download Newsletter PDF -17-10-2021

    WE’RE SO EXCITED TO SHARE THIS NEWS WITH YOU AND DON’T FORGET USE THE CONTACT FORMS ON OUR WEBSITE !

    Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later.

    Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter: 17th October 2021 – 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

    PARISH CONTACTS

    • PARISH PRIEST: Canon Simon Treloar
    • tel: 02392 828305 – please leave a message
    • email: streloar@portsmouthdicoese.org.uk
    • Address: 105 Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Teresa Rowe  tel: 023 92 818295;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Anne Worden  tel: 023 92 817586;
    • Parish Secretary: Mrs Kathleen Jones
    • Parish Office Hours: Tues, Thurs and Friday, 8.00am –12.30pm. tel: 02392 828 305
      email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk
    • Parish website: http://www.stswithuns.org.uk  
    • Facebook Profile: @Stswithuns.org.uk

     

    NEW SECTION ON OUR WEBSITE IF YOU JUST WANT TO SPEND SOME SPECIAL TIME WITH GOD

      Read More on our Renewal Pages here

    Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

    Track and trace: code. Please use the QR Code (on the back of the church). Simply hold your camera app over the code and follow the instructions. This would be helpful should a local outbreak of the virus be detected.
    Ventilation:In order for us to comply with regulations and therefore be considered a ‘COVID secure environment’ the doors must be left open. As the temperature drops in the weeks ahead it will be important to wrap-up warm for Mass! Please do bear this in mind.

    Please remember the advice is to wear a mask inside closed areas and churches.

    Click this link for any questions you might have found on our website.

    Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 17-10-2021

    Cup of Salvation

    Cup of Salvation: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

    The sons of Zebedee hardly know what they’re asking in today’s Gospel. They are thinking in terms of how the Gentiles rule, of royal privileges and honors.

    But the road to Christ’s kingdom is by way of His Cross. To share in His glory, we must be willing to drink the cup that He drinks.

    The cup is an Old Testament image for God’s judgment. The wicked would be made to drink this cup in punishment for their sins (see Psalm 75:9; Jeremiah 25:15, 28; Isaiah 51:17). But Jesus has come to drink this cup on behalf of all humanity. He has come to be baptized—which means plunged or immersed—into the sufferings we all deserve for our sins (compare Luke 12:50).

    In this He will fulfill the task of Isaiah’s suffering servant, whom we read about in today’s First Reading.

    Like Isaiah’s servant, the Son of Man will give His life as an offering for sin, as once Israel’s priests offered sacrifices for the sins of the people (see Leviticus 5:17–19).

    Jesus is the heavenly high priest of all humanity, as we hear in today’s Epistle. Israel’s high priests offered the blood of goats and calves in the temple sanctuary. But Jesus entered the heavenly sanctuary with His own blood (see Hebrews 9:12).

    And by bearing our guilt and offering His life to do the will of God, Jesus ransomed “the many”—paying the price to redeem humanity from spiritual slavery to sin and death.

    He has delivered us from death, as we rejoice in today’s Psalm.

    We need to hold fast to our confession of faith, as today’s Epistle exhorts us. We must look upon our trials and sufferings as our portion of the cup He promised to those who believe in Him (see Colossians 1:24). We must remember that we have been baptized into His passion and death (see Romans 6:3).

    In confidence, let us approach the altar today, the throne of grace, at which we drink the cup of His saving blood (see Mark 14:23–24).

     Read today’s Readings here


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