“Silence is true wisdom’s best reply.”
The common theme of today’s readings is Divine authority, as exercised in this world by the prophets of the Old Testament in their messages, by the apostles (including St Paul), in their writings and teaching in the New Testament, and by Jesus in his teaching and healing ministry. The readings remind us that we should have a “listening heart” (Gospel), instead of a “hardened heart” (Responsorial Psalm) or “divided heart” (Second reading) to welcome the authoritative word of God.
A few additional thoughts for our reflection this week.
The readings all touch on the power of speaking, hearing, and silencing. What does it mean to listen truly to the call of Christ and why does this matter?
In view of Christ demanding “Quiet!”, it is valuable to consider that silence is more powerful than we may realize and necessary for learning and being healed (from the Gospel). “
Hearing his voice” (mentioned in the psalm) is transformative. Keeping our hearts open to his Word is important for this transformation.
Father Peter
Pope’s intention for the month of February: for the terminally ill. We pray that those with a terminal illness, and their families, receive the necessary physical and spiritual care and accompaniment.
Today is Racial Justice Day.
There will be a Forum at St Helen’s after Mass on Saturday 3rd February.
Please remember: the parish hall is still officially out of bounds.
Lectio Divina Group, starting 1st Monday of the month at St John of the Cross, 7-8pm. Lectio Divina is divine reading: “praying the scripture”. The group will read, meditate, pray & contemplate the following Sunday’s gospel with the aim of being led to personal encounter with God & increase in faith. Meeting at St John of the Cross, Monday 5th February. Pl contact Mary Wallace if you would like to attend – 077255 72142 or go to mary.wallace79@gmail.com
What are Icons and how are they painted? St John of the Cross parishioner, Judith James will bring icons and give a talk on Friday 9th February (after the 9.30am Mass) about iconography and how they are painted. Tea & refreshments will be available before her talk.
Inviting young people, aged 16 – 30 to Transform For Lent. The Ignite Team are hosting a weekend retreat for young people at Clare Priory the weekend before Lent (10th – 11th February). For further information/ book a place see www.rcdea.org.uk/youth. Hamish.
The Funeral Service for Shirley Teague, who died on Saturday 20th January, will be held at St John of the Cross on Tuesday 20th February at 2.30pm.
Elaine, Jenny and Stephen would like to say a special thank you for all the support and condolences received after Michael passed away. Also thanks to all who helped make his day so special.
“A Journey of Prayer for Lent 2024” – the Walk with Me booklet with daily reflections throughout Lent, this year with a forward by our own Bishop Peter; is available from the back of the church at just £1.
We pray for our sick parishioners: Matt Butler, Frances Palman, Mary Bell, Mary Carr, Paul Watson, Cyril Shenton, Patricia Newton, Celia Cooper, Marie Barton, Robert Buhagiar, Margaret Larkins, Daphne Necchi, Bert Pooler, Maria Halsey, Shirley Teague, Joan Macnamara, Richard Skelton, Teresa Fitzmaurice and Joan Gale.
We pray for those whose anniversaries occur at this week: Mary Phillips, Minnie Nicholls, John Halsey, Eileen Amis, Wladyslaw (Jan) Kurowski, Bridget Dalton, Daisy Jarman and Norman Baguly. May they rest in peace.
