The gospel today presents Jesus challenging Peter to do something that was totally against Peter’s human instincts from past experiences and yet the outcomes surpassed his wildest dreams.  Realizing what had happened, Peter was ashamed and overcome by a deep sense of his own unworthiness.  What happened to Peter is what happens to us. The discovery of […]

When Jesus began his public ministry in his home town, the initial reaction of the locals to his preaching was very favourable. However, as time passed they felt threatened because they realized that they were being challenged to change their ways. But Jesus had come to preach the Good News regardless of how well it […]

During this pandemic, the decisions we as a parish team have made and continue to make regarding whether to open or not for in-person mass attendance, has always been based on the priority of the safety of everyone. We realize that it has been difficult for everyone, including ourselves, when the decision has had to […]

Today’s gospel captures the moment when Jesus, in his own words made the declaration that the moment of salvation had arrived and that he was the long-awaited Messiah.  The message of the gospel, first preached in Galilee, is to be spread today through us.  The word of God which first came to birth in our […]

In today’s gospel Jesus performs the first of his miracles at the wedding feast in Cana. In this, John is telling us that we need to be refreshed, to let Christ touch the water of our live, and bring greater understanding. Christ came on earth to change people and to make all things new. He came to change […]

Baptism was the way in which Jesus presented himself to the people at the outset of his mission.  That event marked the beginning of his public ministry and the start of his life as a travelling preacher.  It was such an important moment that the Spirit of God took possession of him in a very […]

Our Christmas celebration began with the shepherds on the hill country going over to Bethlehem to visit the new born King and ends with the arrival there of the Magi, in all their splendor.  Although the purpose of their visit was to worship in simplicity and joy before this child, it was Christ who made […]

Today’s Gospel outlines the heartbreaking experience of Mary and Joseph when they were quite certain they had lost Jesus. He had gone off on his own and so even Mary and Joseph did not escape the tensions, anxieties and worries which are the ordinary ups and downs of family life.  As with many parents, Mary and […]

Christmas Blessings…..Christmas Day now has passed and with the ever-changing guidelines to follow to help everyone remain safe and healthy, we may find it hard to focus our attention on the central message of this Feast and this season.  Another year of restricting gathering numbers, doesn’t help our mental anguish at not having things returned […]

With Christmas just around the corner, the days of Advent waiting are almost over.  On this Fourth Sunday the scripture readings are alive with excitement about the Saviour who is coming very soon.  It is no surprise that the spotlight is focused on Mary because no one can help us to understand the meaning of […]