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Daily Mass Readings for Sunday, 3 January 2027

Pradeep Augustine
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Daily Mass Readings for Sunday, 3 January 2027
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Epiphany of the Lord Solemnity

First Reading: Isaiah 60: 1-6
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 72: 1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13
Second Reading: Ephesians 3: 2-3a, 5-6
Alleluia: Matthew 2: 2
Gospel: Matthew 2: 1-12
Lectionary: 20

First Reading: Isaiah 60: 1-6

1 Arise, be enlightened, O Jerusalem: for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.

2 For behold darkness shall cover the earth, and a mist the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.

3 And the Gentiles shall walk in thy light, and kings in the brightness of thy rising.

4 Lift up thy eyes round about, and see: all these are gathered together, they are come to thee: thy sons shall come from afar, and thy daughters shall rise up at thy side.

5 Then shalt thou see, and abound, and thy heart shall wonder and be enlarged, when the multitude of the sea shall be converted to thee, the. strength of the Gentiles shall come to thee.

6 The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Madian and Epha: all they from Saba shall come, bringing gold and frankincense: and shewing forth praise to the Lord.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 72: 1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13

R. (11) Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

1-2 Give to the king thy judgment, O God: and to the king’s son thy justice: To judge thy people with justice, and thy poor with judgment.

R. Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

7 In his days shall justice spring up, and abundance of peace, till the moon be taken sway.

8 And he shall rule from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.

R. Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

10 The kings of Tharsis and the islands shall offer presents: the kings of the Arabians and of Saba shall bring gifts:

11 And all kings of the earth shall adore him: all nations shall serve him.

R. Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

12 For he shall deliver the poor from the mighty: and the needy that had no helper.

13 He shall spare the poor and needy: and he shall save the souls of the poor.

R. Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

Second Reading: Ephesians 3: 2-3a, 5-6

2 If yet you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me towards you:

3a How that, according to revelation, the mystery has been made known to me.

5 Which in other generations was not known to the sons of men, as it is now revealed to his holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit:

6 That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and co-partners of his promise in Christ Jesus, by the gospel:

Alleluia: Matthew 2: 2

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

2 We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel: Matthew 2: 1-12

1 When Jesus therefore was born in Bethlehem of Juda, in the days of king Herod, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem.

2 Saying, Where is he that is born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to adore him.

3 And king Herod hearing this, was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

4 And assembling together all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where Christ should be born.

5 But they said to him: In Bethlehem of Juda. For so it is written by the prophet:

6 And thou Bethlehem the land of Juda art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come forth the captain that shall rule my people Israel.

7 Then Herod, privately calling the wise men, learned diligently of them the time of the star which appeared to them;

8 And sending them into Bethlehem, said: Go and diligently inquire after the child, and when you have found him, bring me word again, that I also may come to adore him.

9 Who having heard the king, went their way; and behold the star which they had seen in the east, went before them, until it came and stood over where the child was.

10 And seeing the star they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

11 And entering into the house, they found the child with Mary his mother, and falling down they adored him; and opening their treasures, they offered him gifts; gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

12 And having received an answer in sleep that they should not return to Herod, they went back another way into their country.

The readings on this page are taken from the Douay-Rheims Catholic Bible. You can also read the Mass Readings taken from the New Jerusalem Bible, which is used at Mass in most of the English-speaking world. (References, Copyrights).
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Daily Mass Readings for Saturday, 2 January 2027

Pradeep Augustine
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Daily Mass Readings for Saturday, 2 January 2027
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Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops, Doctors Obligatory Memorial

First Reading: First John 2: 22-28
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 98: 1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4
Alleluia: Hebrews 1: 1-2
Gospel: John 1: 19-28
Lectionary: 205

First Reading: First John 2: 22-28

22 Who is a liar, but he who denieth that Jesus is the Christ? This is Antichrist, who denieth the Father, and the Son.

23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father. He that confesseth the Son, hath the Father also.

24 As for you, let that which you have heard from the beginning, abide in you. If that abide in you, which you have heard from the beginning, you also shall abide in the Son, and in the Father.

25 And this is the promise which he hath promised us, life everlasting.

26 These things have I written to you, concerning them that seduce you.

27 And as for you, let the unction, which you have received from him, abide in you. And you have no need that any man teach you; but as his unction teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie. And as it hath taught you, abide in him.

28 And now, little children, abide in him, that when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be confounded by him at his coming.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 98: 1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4

R. (3cd) All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

1 Sing ye to the Lord anew canticle: because he hath done wonderful things. His right hand hath wrought for him salvation, and his arm is holy.

R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

2 The Lord hath made known his salvation: he hath revealed his justice in the sight of the Gentiles.

3ab He hath remembered his mercy his truth toward the house of Israel.

R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

3cd All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

4 Sing joyfully to God, all the earth; make melody, rejoice and sing.

R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

Alleluia: Hebrews 1: 1-2

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

1-2 In times, past, God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets: in these last days, he has spoken to us through his Son.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel: John 1: 19-28

19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent from Jerusalem priests and Levites to him, to ask him: Who art thou?

20 And he confessed, and did not deny: and he confessed: I am not the Christ.

21 And they asked him: What then? Art thou Elias? And he said: I am not. Art thou the prophet? And he answered: No.

22 They said therefore unto him: Who art thou, that we may give an answer to them that sent us? What sayest thou of thyself?

23 He said: I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Isaias.

24 And they that were sent, were of the Pharisees.

25 And they asked him, and said to him: Why then dost thou baptize, if thou be not Christ, nor Elias, nor the prophet?

26 John answered them, saying: I baptize with water; but there hath stood one in the midst of you, whom you know not.

27 The same is he that shall come after me, who is preferred before me: the latchet of whose shoe I am not worthy to loose.

28 These things were done in Bethania, beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

The readings on this page are taken from the Douay-Rheims Catholic Bible. You can also read the Mass Readings taken from the New Jerusalem Bible, which is used at Mass in most of the English-speaking world. (References, Copyrights).
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Daily Mass Readings for Friday, 1 January 2027

Pradeep Augustine
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Daily Mass Readings for Friday, 1 January 2027
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Mary, Mother of God Solemnity (Octave of Christmas).

First Reading: Numbers 6: 22-27
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 67: 2-3, 5, 6, 8
Second Reading: Galatians 4: 4-7
Alleluia: Hebrews 1: 1-2
Gospel: Luke 2: 16-21
Lectionary: 18

First Reading: Numbers 6: 22-27

22 And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying:

23 Say to Aaron and his sons: Thus shall you bless the children of Israel, and you shall say to them:

24 The Lord bless thee, and keep thee.

25 The Lord shew his face to thee, and have mercy on thee.

26 The Lord turn his countenance to thee, and give thee peace.

27 And they shall invoke my name upon the children of Israel, and I will bless them.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 67: 2-3, 5, 6, 8

R. (2a) May God bless us in his mercy.

2 May God have mercy on us, and bless us: may he cause the light of his countenance to shine upon us, and may he have mercy on us.

3 That we may know thy way upon earth: thy salvation in all nations.

R. May God bless us in his mercy.

5 Let the nations be glad and rejoice: for thou judgest the people with justice, and directest the nations upon earth.

R. May God bless us in his mercy.

6 Let the people, O God, confess to thee: let all the people give praise to thee:

8 May God bless us: and all the ends of the earth fear him.

R. May God bless us in his mercy.

Second Reading: Galatians 4: 4-7

4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:

5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.

6 And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.

7 Therefore now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.

Alleluia: Hebrews 1: 1-2

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

1-2 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel: Luke 2: 16-21

16 And they came with haste; and they found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger.

17 And seeing, they understood of the word that had been spoken to them concerning this child.

18 And all that heard, wondered; and at those things that were told them by the shepherds.

19 But Mary kept all these words, pondering them in her heart.

20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God, for all the things they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

21 And after eight days were accomplished, that the child should be circumcised, his name was called JESUS, which was called by the angel, before he was conceived in the womb.

The readings on this page are taken from the Douay-Rheims Catholic Bible. You can also read the Mass Readings taken from the New Jerusalem Bible, which is used at Mass in most of the English-speaking world. (References, Copyrights).
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Catholic Educational Toys That Teach Faith Through Fun

Catholic Gallery
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Catholic Educational Toys That Teach Faith Through Fun

Is it difficult to keep your youngster calm at Mass? Do you think it is useless to bring them as they are too young to benefit from going to mass? You are not alone. But as our parish priest often reminds us, “A church without children is like a garden with no flowers.”

Even through the tiny cries and distractions, by showing up, you’re teaching your child to also show up for Jesus and keep holy the Sabbath. And what if you could extend that faith-filled learning beyond Sunday? That’s where Catholic educational toys come in.

Why Faith-Based Play Matters

Since children learn best through play, you should give them religious toys that will significantly contribute to the development of their Catholic faith. Put these Catholic educational toys in their hands as they go about their everyday lives, as they can eventually aid in the implementation and normalization of Catholic principles. By giving Catholic kids gifts, you can spread the value of faith across your family and household.

Parts of the Mass Ring: Helping Children Follow Along

One popular Catholic toy that many families find helpful is the Parts of the Mass Ring from Catholic Family Crate. This Catholic educational toy is unique and will encourage your child to participate in the beauty of the mass. Your child saint-in-training will be able to follow along card by card because the cards are arranged according to the four parts of the mass. When your child is holding this religious toy, you can stop worrying about them not receiving anything out of going to church. The Parts of the Mass Ring’s straightforward text and vibrant illustrations will make it simpler for your child to follow along than the adult missile. They are becoming more confident in their ability to participate in Sunday mass, just like their parents, and they are also realizing the significance of what is taking place on the altar.

Wisdom of the Saints Ring: Learning from Catholic Heroes

The Wisdom of the Saints Ring and a Mary Magnet Playset are two additional Catholic kids gifts from the Catholic Family Crate brand we hold at Marie Madeleine. A picture of each saint, their years of life, a fun fact, and a kid-friendly quote from each saint are all included in the Wisdom of the Saints Ring, a deck of 27 cards that honors the finest thinkers in the Church. Before bed, in the car, before mass, or whenever your kids need to sit quietly and be patient, have them read up on these saints. Children can learn about our Church heroes in a fascinating way with this Catholic educational toy. As children of faith, let these saints serve as the role models they aspire to be on a daily basis.

Mary Magnet Playset: Faith and Imagination Combined

The Mary Magnet Playset, a personal favorite at Marie Madeleine, lets your child create a Marian Garden and play dress-up with Mary using 28 magnetic pieces, allowing them to enter a world of faith-filled fun. Little girls can mix and match the magnetic outfit pieces from the various clothes Our Lady has appeared in wearing during her apparitions throughout history. This truly is a Catholic kid’s gift that will put a smile on your child as she quietly plays with Mary during church service. There are also magnetic pieces of flowers, birds, and children praying to design a Marian prayer garden. This allows them to embark on the importance of Jesus’ mother. The purpose of this religious toy tin set is to encourage a relationship with Mary in a fun, imaginative, and engaging way. One thing any parent will appreciate is the design component of the tin set that makes this Catholic educational toy simple to store, reduces mess, and keeps your magnetic components from getting lost.

Jesus of Nazareth Doll: A Comforting Companion

Last but not least, our Jesus of Nazareth doll from the Be A Heart brand is a religious toy with profound significance. What a beautiful and thoughtful baptismal gift or birthday gift this doll would be. Here, what lesson is being taught? It helps your child understand that Jesus is always with us. This soft Jesus of Nazareth doll is great for both little girls and boys to cuddle with because it not only educates them about how Jesus is always close by, but He can also be a constant companion throughout our lives. There is so much beauty in teaching your children to lean on Jesus during the good and bad times.

Extending Faith Beyond Sunday

These Catholic toys for kids are not merely toys for play. The true objective of these faith-based, entertaining religious toys is to foster virtue, curiosity, and a love for Christ. Allow these Catholic kids gifts to continue after Sunday mass, either at home in a quiet play area or incorporated into daily homeschooling activities.

Help plant the seed of faith in young hearts through joyful, meaningful play.
Explore our collection of Catholic educational toys at Shop Marie Madeleine—and discover the perfect gift to inspire the next generation of believers.

Disclaimer:
This article is a guest post contributed by a member of our Catholic community. It is not a sponsored post, and we are not affiliated with or compensated by the brands or retailers mentioned. All views expressed are those of the author and are shared to promote ideas that may help families grow in faith. Product references are for informational purposes only.

Loving God ? or loving your Neighbor

Dr. Rosemary Varghese
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Loving God ? or loving your Neighbor

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”-Matthew 22:36

Recently I chanced upon a trending video on social media that is rapidly spreading falsehood in the most disarming manner among a wide audience. The speaker is Sadhguru, a self-styled New Age social influencer, whose followers span several religions and cultures, and his topic was about loving one’s neighbour. The appeal was instantaneous as it touched high moral ground, and, since the notion is biblical, he decided to use the example of Jesus and the Bible to prove his point.

His first statement was that it was very easy to love the “man” Jesus who lived 2000 years ago but extremely difficult to love one’s neighbour, especially when one has differences of opinion with them. The next statement, equally misleading, was that Jesus never told anyone to love Him. He only spoke about loving one’s neighbour.

Hidden Agendas

I believe that Sadhguru had a much greater agenda here than simply exhorting his audience to live in peace and harmony with the people next door. Under a very subtle camouflage he was establishing the identity of Jesus as a man who lived and died 2000 years ago, and is remembered by His followers for the good things He advocated. In order to trivialize this remembrance still further, he shreds apart the greatest commandments that Jesus proclaimed in the Bible, completely erasing the first and most important tenet that underlines love of God; and bringing the second commandment –love of neighbour— to the forefront. Like many of the artfully persuasive speakers of his genre, he uses one morally acceptable truth to softly kill another greater and more fundamental biblical truth.

What did Jesus actually say?

It is important to understand how damaging these misquotes and misrepresentations can be to a gullible audience whose biblical understanding is questionable. In order to get the full import of this proclamation by Jesus, we can go right into the context in Mark’s Gospel, where Jesus is answering a question from a Jewish teacher of the Law who wanted to know which among the commandments of God was the greatest. The answer from Jesus is in the form of a declaration to the whole of Israel,  ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:29-31. All the four gospels carry this message. In John 13, however, the implications and tenor are deeper and we will come to that later.

The first and most important commandment

What Jesus set down as the first and most important commandment was a positive and intense version of the first of the ten commandments that Moses received directly from Yahweh- our Father in Heaven— I am the Lord your God and you shall not have other gods before me. Exodus 20 gives us an elaborate explanation of what God meant by “other gods,” mainly idol worship. Yahweh describes himself as a punishing God to those who disobey this first commandment, but to those who are faithful, He promises that His love will remain with  His people beyond a thousand generations. 

As we progress through the Old Testament, we understand the full import of this first commandment and its prime position among all the others. Beginning with the Book of Genesis, we see how Abraham’s unflinching faith in God was rewarded and he was chosen to be the Father of a nation that would always be held in special favour by God. Later in the Book of Samuel we encounter the great  King David. Though there were many instances where he stepped out of line, breaking the laws against adultery and murder, his saving grace was his lifelong devotion to God, which helped him to come back to his God in penitence. For this he remained in God’s grace and was chosen to be the ancestor of the One to come, Jesus Christ the Redeemer. However, barring a few exceptions, the line of kings that followed David were unfaithful to God and were punished mercilessly time and again for their iniquities and idol worship. And yet, Yahweh has not forgotten His promise to Abraham even to this very day. Today, the Israelites are a strong nation, after having faced multiple attacks from enemy nations, including the holocaust. Yet even now, their faithfulness to their God and his commandments is questionable, considering the atrocities and genocide they have unleashed on innocent victims in the ongoing Gaza war.

The implications of the first commandment

In today’s context, we need to understand what Jesus meant  by asking us to love God  “with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” It means that we have to prioritise our worship and allegiance to God above everything else. Our world today is a mixed pot of ideas, cultures, lifestyles, aspirations, quick fixes, and what have you. Every day beckons us to new destinations, personally and collectively. If we are not firmly anchored with God the Father, and His Son, the Word Incarnate, it is easy to go astray, lost in a labyrinth of worldly ways that lead us away from our eternal home with God.

The second commandment

Having said that, we must also understand that the first commandment is not a standalone instruction. It leads us directly into the execution of the second one that Jesus laid down- ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ John 14:15 gives us the true test of our love for God-“If you love me you will keep my commandments” Most of the commandments deal with our relations with others. If we claim that we love God intensely, it means we are committed to being concerned with those around us. Our love has to speak many languages- those of forgiveness, charity, patience, humility, and kindness. And these flow freely from our love for our Creator. It is enabled by the power of the Holy Spirit that fills us when we commit our whole being to God.

The importance of the second commandment cannot be denied. What we need to understand is that it can only be set in motion by our deepest adherence to the first.  John’s gospel speaks of this on another occasion- during the Last Supper-“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34.  The Passion and Crucifixion of Jesus was the ransom paid for our redemption from eternal damnation.  It is the measure of the love He has for us. This is the love that He expects us to have for each other. Is this humanly possible? Herein lies the connection between the first and second commandment. If we love God with all that we have, and constantly seek Him in our lives, His limitless love will flow to us, and through us to our neighbours and those around us.

Warning against false teachers

There is great depth of meaning in the teachings of Christ. Social media often serves as a platform to influence people in wrong directions. Jesus forewarns us about this species of false prophets-Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.-Matthew 7:15. May we always be on guard against those who can destroy our souls with the guile of the ancient serpent in Paradise.

Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 03 August 2025

Maryanne Cardoz-Mascarenhas
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Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 03 August 2025
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Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Also Read: Mass Readings for 03 August 2025

First Reading: Ecclesiastes 1: 2; 2: 21-23

The Tale of the Toil!

What do people get for all the toil and anxious striving with which they labour under the sun? (22)

The Book of Ecclesiastes is traditionally believed to be written by King Solomon. He expresses that life is meaningless without God. He raises rhetorical questions to stress the importance of God’s presence in our lives. Being the richest man on earth at his time, he would have known that only when we have God, all wealth, wisdom, and power is worth it!

We praise God for giving us the greatest wealth, HIS SON JESUS Christ! Indeed, we are the wealthiest when we have Christ! In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 90: 3-6, 12-14 and 17

The Heart of Wisdom!

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Relent, Lord! How long will it be? Have compassion on your servants. Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. (12-14)

Lord, teach us to gain a heart of wisdom, in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Amen!

Second Reading: Colossians 3: 1-5, 9-11

The Renewed Mind!

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. (9-11)

Christ is all and in all; therefore, we are one! Since we have now taken off our old self and are being renewed in the image of the Creator God, we must be on guard in our practices! In our daily living we must refine our habits, thoughts, and actions! We will find our tribe in unexpected ways, the support or cooperation we seek in walking this new path will mysteriously appear through mystical means!

In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Alleluia: Matthew 5: 3

Alleluia, Alleluia!

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Alleluia!

Gospel: Luke 12: 13-21

“Blessed to be a Blessing!”

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (15)

The rich man thought of storing the surplus for himself! Christ warns us about greed here! We are blessed to be a blessing! We are all blessed with surplus! We must discern our “surplus” – it could be time on our hands, talent to play an instrument, or skill to use words, or any such gift! Let us not be greedy in keeping these to ourselves! We also note that greed is equalled to foolishness here!

Let us be truly wise! Let us share and be Blessed in return! In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 27 July 2025

Maryanne Cardoz-Mascarenhas
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Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 27 July 2025
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Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Also Read: Mass Readings for 27 July 2025

First Reading: Genesis 18: 20-32

Abraham Advocates!

Then he said, “May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak just once more. What if only ten can be found there?” He answered, “For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.” (32)

The Lord appeared to Abraham, and after he had blessed him, He moves on towards Sodom and Gomorrah! But as soon as Abraham heard that the Lord was going to find out and punish the cities, he began pleading for them! 

Today Christ Jesus is already our advocate before God. But are we at the last appeal already? Let us mend our hearts and ways so that we can find mercy with the Lord. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 138: 1-3, 6-8

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.

Amen, Alleluia!

Second Reading: Colossians 2: 12-14

Fullness of Life in Christ

When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins. Erasing the record that stood against us with its legal demands. He set this aside, nailing it to the cross. (13-14)

Christ bore our wounds in his flesh – God took upon himself our weakness, so that we may gain strength! This profound mystery is the cornerstone of our faith!! Though we live in this mortal body, we have been freed to walk in the light of God right now!

Let us praise God for his mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Alleluia: Romans 8: 15bc

Alleluia, Alleluia! 

For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba! Father!”

Alleluia!

Gospel: Luke 11: 1-13

Perseverance in prayer

“So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. (9-10)

The disciples ask Jesus to teach them to pray. Jesus gives them the “Lord’s Prayer” and then goes on to teach them to be persistent in prayer! He tells them that they must ask the Lord for the Holy Spirit.  “…how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (13) 

Let us ask the Lord God for the Holy Spirit and all that we need. We will receive through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!

Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 20 July 2025

Maryanne Cardoz-Mascarenhas
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Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 20 July 2025
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Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Also Read: Mass Readings for 20 July 2025 Sunday Reflection by Mike – 20 July 2025

First Reading: Genesis 18: 1-10a

He said, “If I have found favour in your eyes, my lord, do not pass your servant by. Let a little water be brought, and then you may all wash your feet and rest under this tree. Let me get you something to eat, so you can be refreshed and then go on your way—now that you have come to your servant.” (3-5)

When Abraham is visited by the Holy Trinity God; “…do not pass your servant by.” says he! (v.3) He venerates them in the washing of their feet, makes an offering from his livestock with nothing but the best; then adores and respects them to “go their way”. Being the Lord of All who knows all – when to arrive, stay, or move on; wouldn’t God be visiting this way?

God came and tasted human life for 33 years on this earth. He left us a permanent part of himself in the Holy Eucharist. He lives in us every time we receive him worthily! When we see him reside in our very being, do we follow the Abrahamic hospitality? What is our response? I will sacrifice a freewill offering to you; I will praise your name, Lord, for it is good. (Ps. 54:6) When is the last time we thanked the Lord who has blessed us so abundantly? What keeps us busy, – prepping an offering to God, or working for our own gratification? How do we display our veneration of the Lord in our lives, as leaders of our families, groups, or organisations? What are the ways our families or teams, can be directed to emulate Abraham’s example?

We ask Father Abraham to interceded for us today. We thank the Lord for everything! In Jesus’ name, Amen, Alleluia!

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 15: 2-3ab, 3cd-4, 5

(Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain?) v.1

The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart. (2)

Alleluia!

Second Reading: Colossians 1: 24-28

The mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (26-27)

In Christ’s revelation we have been saved. Therefore, we rejoice in the Lord Always and in all circumstances. (Phil 4:4) Because we know what was meant for harm, the Lord turns into good. (Gen 50:20)

Hence, we rejoice and again we will sing the Lord’s song, even in strange lands. (Ps. 137)

In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Alleluia: Luke 8: 15

Alleluia, Alleluia!

But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

Alleluia!

Gospel: Luke 10: 38-42

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (41-42)

The Lord says to us today, “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.” In preparing and remaining hospitable to those around us, let us not be distracted. Martha did the virtuous deed of opening her home to the Lord but got distracted; like we all do, from time to time! Mary sat at the Lord’s feet listening to his every word, like Father Abraham who stood near the Lord. (Gen 18:8) Both of these holy sisters followed the Abrahamic hospitality but only partly! Like Mary we are to listen to the Lord’s Word FIRST and then go out and do HIS will!

We ask Sts. Martha and Mary to intercede for us to not be worried and upset about things and to make the choice to Listen for our Shepherd’s voice, in Jesus’ name Amen!

Alleluia, Amen!

Sunday Reflection by Mike – 20 July 2025

Mike Schramm
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Sunday Reflection by Mike – 20 July 2025
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Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Also Read: Mass Readings for 20 July 2025 Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 20 July 2025

Hospitality as a Path to Holiness

Christian hospitality is a participation in the divine life. This is made clear in the first reading where Abraham welcomes God in the form of the three strangers. When we welcome others with love, generosity, and attentiveness, we make space for God Himself. The Church has always seen in acts of hospitality an image of our openness to grace. We encounter Christ in the faces of those we serve (cf. Hebrews 13:2). The Christian home is not just a private space but a domestic church, where strangers become guests and guests become icons of Christ.

Justice Is the Shape of Love in Public

The moral life is not an abstraction; it is lived in our speech, our promises, and our treatment of others. “He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.” This is a call to integrity like the Psalm shows us. Justice in the Christian life means giving each person their due, beginning with God. It is lived out in honesty, fidelity, compassion, and the courage to act rightly when it costs us. Injustice erodes our communion with God, but when we “walk blamelessly,” we become living signs of His kingdom.

Redemptive Suffering Builds the Church

St. Paul’s mysterious words about “making up what is lacking in the sufferings of Christ” teach us that suffering, when united to Christ, becomes redemptive. The Church is not built on success or comfort but on the self-gift of its members. Every hardship endured for the sake of Christ and His Body participates in the mystery of salvation. This is the paradox of the Cross: love grows strongest when it is poured out. We are not called to comfort, but to communion with Christ crucified.

Prayer Must Precede Action

The spiritual life demands discernment between good and better. Martha’s service is not condemned—but Mary’s contemplative posture is praised as the “better part.” We must serve, but our service must flow from union with Christ. In a noisy world that measures worth by productivity, Jesus calls us to listen first. Prayer is not passivity; it is power. From it flows the grace to act with love, peace, and purpose. Without prayer, action becomes anxious. With prayer, even silence becomes fruitful.

Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 13 July 2025

Maryanne Cardoz-Mascarenhas
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Sunday Reflection by Maryanne – 13 July 2025
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Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Also Read: Mass Readings for 13 July 2025

First Reading: Deuteronomy 30: 10-14

“If you obey the Lord your God and keep his commands and decrees that are written in this Book of the Law, turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.” (v.10)

The passage today reminds us that we have to keep the Lord’s commandments! The preceding verse explains the reason for the same. “Then the Lord, your God, will make you most prosperous in all the work of your hands and in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your land. “The Lord will again delight in you and make you prosperous, just as he delighted in your ancestors.” (v.9) To know the commandments, we must read his words regularly! The author says that it is not too difficult, because the Lord’s words are in our hearts and our mouths! (v.14)

Let us remain committed to reading and meditating on scripture regularly. Let us realign our hearts and reassign our schedules so that we remain in the Word of the Lord, in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 69: 14, 17, 30-31, 33-34, 36, 37

I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. This will please the Lord more than an ox, more than a bull with its horns and hooves. (30-31)

Alleluia!

How great is the Lord our God! He doesn’t need our ox or bull, but it’s only our song of Thanksgiving that pleases HIM, Amen! Alleluia!

Second Reading: Colossians 1: 15-20

He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him. (18-19)

Today’s short passage is packed with the most important teachings of the Christian faith! Some of them include:” Christ Jesus is the head, and we are the body of HIS Church!” God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him! 

In this catechism lesson we can understand that the Lord Jesus Christ is our head and we His Body! God’s fullness dwelt in the Lord Jesus Christ!

Let us thank the Lord for his mercy on us because he reconciled all things to himself through the blood and death of Jesus, His Son! We ask the Lord to grant us the grace to live worthily of this great privilege. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Alleluia: John 6: 63c, 68c

Alleluia, Alleluia! The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life. Alleluia!

Gospel: Luke 10: 25-37

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (27)

The whole catechism is summed up in these two commandments given by the Lord Jesus Christ! The first 3 commandments of the Old Testament (Ex. 20) correspond to: ‘Love the Lord your God…’ While the rest of the commandments correspond to: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

In sharing the ‘Good Samaritan story’, Jesus teaches us that a neighbor is anyone in need! If we are to care for the needy around us, we will need to be open to acknowledging them! Not everyone needs us! But we need to allow the Holy Spirit to help us discern the needs of those around us. We are to surrender ourselves, our means, our time to the Lord, for he is the only one who really knows the needs of others! 

Let us humble ourselves to serve the Lord who is present among our brethren! Let us rejoice while we serve HIM. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

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