I was surprised recently to hear one of my students describe Jesus as a “wowser” and Christianity as the world’s foremost proponent of “wowserism”. While I might be able to understand why a young person might express the latter sentiment (albeit unjustly), I find it difficult to see how anyone could accuse Jesus of being a “wowser”.
Dining at God’s table Read More »
Advent is a time of waiting in hope and expectation. We may hope for many things: to win the lottery; get a better-paid job; pass an examination; find the right person to marry; overcome an illness; heal a soured relationship. Perhaps though the Church’s celebration of Advent is more akin to the kind of excited joy in a child’s heart awaiting a forthcoming birthday party. Or the joy of expectant parents awaiting the birth of their first child.
Joyful expectation Read More »
John the Baptist is among the most theologically significant figures in the Gospels. In Luke’s gospel, his birth narrative parallels that of Jesus. His conception is announced by an angel, and his birth was a surprise gift to his aged parents. The expectant mothers of Jesus and John meet and rejoice that they have been blessed by God. The children are cousins, and both will begin their mission in the desert.
The need to forgive ourselves Read More »
When COVID-19 began to impact negatively on all aspects of our lives last year, we questioned when the situation would turn around for the better. We heard a lot of predictions but in reality, no one knew when the pandemic would end. And we still don’t.
It’s a time of waiting Read More »
Over the centuries there have been terrible disasters that to the people of the time would have seemed like signs of the apocalypse. There was the Black Death in the 14th century that killed 50 million people in Europe or some 60 percent of the population; the First World War followed by the influenza epidemic; and the destruction wrought by the Second World War.
Prevailing hope, not despair Read More »
The first reading today is from the Book of Daniel (2nd century BC). It foretells the coming of a mysterious “one like a son of man.” This was a title that Jesus used of himself. The Church reads this text as prophesying the universal Kingship of Christ.
The kingdom is the truth Read More »
A man thrown into a den of hungry lions; three youths cast into a massive furnace; dreams and visions; kings gone mad; angelic beings appearing and disappearing: the Book of Daniel is wild stuff. It certainly captivated Jesus, who identified himself as the visionary’s ‘Son of Man’ riding on the clouds as Lord and Judge of the world.
Always a faithful God Read More »
Carmel has been a widow for five years. Christmas and New Year are anxious and depressing times for her, especially now that she’s on her own. In need of help and a listening ear, Carmel reached out to Sr Joan, who’s been a great support to Carmel since her husband’s death.
The gift of the heart Read More »
As part of a structured community or society, we need regulations, ‘norms’ or laws to provide the conditions for a productive, well-ordered and peaceful community. To achieve its mission and to continue to support people in their lives and with their faith, the Church also needs structures.
God’s law is about love Read More »
The end of the Church’s liturgical year is fast approaching and will culminate in a celebration of Christ as King. Today’s readings focus on the meaning of discipleship, on what it means to live true to Jesus our King and his teaching and example.
Praying for ‘faithful’ eyes Read More »