Many would have seen the 2016 movie, “Hidden Figures,” which focused on the roles of three African American women mathematicians – Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson – who worked at NASA during the Mercury program. Few would have known how these three women played crucial roles in the success of John Glenn’s historic spaceflight.
In preparation for the birth of Jesus tomorrow, today we celebrate the Annunciation, the announcement to Mary that she is being invited to become the mother of the Saviour. Moreover, we hear the story in the Gospel of Luke who portrays Mary as a true believer and first disciple of Jesus. While Mary is not a disciple like the Twelve who accompany Jesus in his ministry, she is presented as the true disciple who hears the Word of God and acts upon it.
Like Mary we are called to be prophets Read More »
Some years ago, I was invited to Christmas lunch by a young family – dad, mum and two gorgeous little girls, living in a suburban Department of Housing flat. The menu featured ham and salad, with Christmas pudding and custard for dessert!
Christmas is a feast of the heart Read More »
For centuries, the Jewish people had treasured the words of prophets like Isaiah. They would have had the promises we see in today’s gospel and first reading inscribed on their minds and hearts.
God’s flock will not go without Read More »
I recall a scripture scholar describing John the Baptist as an extremely eccentric character with an odd wardrobe and an unusual diet. However, you imagine him, certainly John must have had a captivating personality, attracting large followings in less than comfortable surroundings, and this surely suggests that his message carried real conviction.
A voice in the wilderness Read More »
When travelling, especially overseas, many people spend a good amount of time in preparation. There may be a trip to the doctor, dentist, pharmacy, the supermarket and even the hairdresser. Calls to insurance companies regarding travel and medical cover, requests to neighbours and family members to keep an eye on the house, the dog, the cat … the list goes on.
What sort of king is revealed to us in today’s readings? It seems he’s not like other kings. In the first reading God is spoken of as ‘a true shepherd’, one who doesn’t abandon his flock, but cares for them.
We all belong to one another Read More »
Different people have different abilities. A person gifted with imagination or creativity may not be good at administration or finance. Someone with a flair for ‘do it yourself ‘around the house may not be musical. A cook who is ‘at home’ in the kitchen may be completely lost when it comes to anything mechanical. Someone with sporting prowess may find computers and electronics out of their league.
Don’t be afraid to use your gifts Read More »
In biblical times, people wed at a young age with marriages arranged by the fathers of the couple. The betrothal took place in early youth and was a legal marriage, although the woman remained in her father’s house.
Being awake and prepared Read More »
Keeping Up Appearances’ is a popular British sitcom that ran from 1990-1995. The plot centres on Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced “Bouquet”), a snobbish middle-aged Englishwoman on a lifelong quest to escape her working-class background, climb the social ladder and claim her rightful place in society.
Oh Lord, it’s hard to be humble Read More »
