29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
17 October 2021
Readings for this Weekend:
First Reading: Isaiah 53:10-11
Second Reading: Hebrews 4:4-16
Gospel: Mark 10:35-45
Welcome to the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary & St Matthew
Christ did not become human to dominate others. He came to seek out the sick, the suffering, and the sinners. He came not only to instruct and heal us, but he suffered the cruelest death imaginable to open heaven to those who would believe.
Reflection from Fr Isaac
Barabbas. We know this guy, we know his name, and we’ve heard it many times before. His name is mentioned in Mark’s Gospel in Chapter 15 three times. Today in Mark Chapter 10, we have Jesus for the third time refer to the disciples James and John as sons of Zebedee. He refers to them in Mark Chapter 3 likewise yet with the additive, he names them ‘sons of thunder’, a tribute perhaps to their fiery nature. In today’s Gospel, we get a feel of their character coming out again, as they come forward to ask for a place on the left and the right when he takes his seat on his throne. Jesus surprisingly doesn’t take this as an act of defiance to what his mission was. Since the context tells us they knew what they were heading into. They were told by Christ they were heading to Jerusalem, and he was going to be handed over and be killed. Being fierce and believing that Jesus was the Messiah, they wanted Jesus to order who was to have power, this is the meaning of sitting on the left and right - of course a little self-nomination was in the bold request. It may be surprising but Jesus replies simply by drawing them in, can you carry the cross? Will you die for me? Will you die for your brothers and sisters? These are questions that we can ask ourselves whenever we feel a little self-entitled. Let’s be honest we all have those moments. The great thing is that we are reminded that just as Christ gives us great strength as his followers, we also must recall that this does not allow us to Lord it over others, since we ourselves were redeemed by the same precious Blood of Jesus.
The name Barabbas means “son of Abba”, or son of the Father. Also his first name was Jesus, thus, Jesus Barabbas translates: ‘God saves, son of Abba”, isn’t that beautiful. (Note: Ladies that includes you, we are all sons in the Son/sons and daughters of the Most High.) Barabbas misused his power, yet was physically redeemed by Christ. Yes we are Barabbas. Yet let us imitate the fierce beloved, who remained with him, as did Mary Magdalene, to the Cross, to death, and they were the first to believe and witness the resurrection. John, as he entered into the tomb and Mary, weeping in the Garden. Let us imitate these beloved saints.
As we reflect, let us be thankful today for the merciful grace of “Our Father”, and seek to use the power given to us, to serve our brothers and sisters. Especially at this time when emotion is running high, questions and concerns are looming about the future, and frustrations can hinder our temperament. Let us be firm in our faith, knowing we are beloved sons and daughters of the Most High, then with care and concern, witness to that in our conduct with our neighbour.
RESISTRATIONS CLOSE TODAY (Friday)...Registration link below
We are excited to offer this online nationwide conference for FREE. Register here: https://events.cdh.nz
Featuring:
Fr James Mallon, Divine Renovation Founder
Aux. Bishop Michael Gielen, Auckland Diocese
and Kevin Bailey, Divine Renovation Australasia Executive Director
Synod on Synodality - Hamilton Diocese
Opening of the Synod at Diocesan level this Sunday 17 October by Bishop Steve will be available via livestream at synod.cdh.nz or cdh.org.nz/livestream or directly via our YouTube Channel at 9am https://www.youtube.com/c/CatholicDioceseofHamiltonNZ/featured
The word ‘synodality’ means “walking together”. Pope Francis invites
us to reflect together, with guidance from the Holy Spirit, on what this mutual journey means for us and for our Church – from the local to the universal. To find out more about what this Synod is all about and the timeline for our Diocese’s journey visit synod.cdh.nz
Pope Francis launches two-year consultation of world’s Catholics
The Spirit asks us to listen to the questions, concerns and hopes of every Church, people and nation. And to listen to the world, to the challenges and changes that it sets before us. Let us not soundproof our hearts; let us not remain barricaded in our certainties. So often our certainties can make us closed. Let us listen to one another.
Pope Francis: Homily for the Mass for the Opening of the Synodal Path, 10 October 2021
Our prayerful sympathy...
Our prayerful sympathy to the relatives and friends of Leone Shaw, who died last Sunday. Leone was in her nineties and had been a Cathedral parishioner for many years. Due to Covid restrictions a private cremation has taken place. The family intends to hold a memorial Mass at a later date. May Leone rest in peace.
First Communion Confirmation Programme
The Parent input meeting that was to take place this weekend has been postponed . If your child is part of the programme please check your emails and Andrea will provide you with an update
Online Digital Format
October is the Month of the Rosary
Here’s a resource for everyone to journey alongside Mary, and reflect on the mysteries in the life of Christ. May the praying of the Rosary bring hope to everyone especially in these challenging times of the pandemic.
Food for Faith is offering a way of learning and praying the Rosary together. Visit the website to learn more. https://foodforfaith.org.nz/category/rosary/
An Act of Spiritual Communion
My Jesus,
I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace You as if You were already there
and unite myself wholly to You.
Never permit me to be separated from You.
Amen.
WAYS TO SUPPORT THE MISSION :
. ONLINE at bishopappeal.cdh.nz
. INTERNET BANKING RC Bishop of Hamilton - 02 0342 0050008- 003
(particulars: name - code: bishop app - Reference: donor # if any)
For more information & assistance, please contact Fred: fredr@cdh.org.nz or 856 6989
Thank you for your gifts and prayers.
“Sponsor a Family’s and Whanau Christmas Dinner” Through Catholic Family Support Services
Christmas doesn’t come easy for many families and whanau. You can make a difference today by sponsoring a Christmas Hamper for families, whanau and children going through tough times.
Small Hamper—$50
Larger Hamper—$100
Make a pledge by contacting Catholic Family Support Services (07) 856 3760 or
Catholic Family Support Services Account number: 02-0342-0008002-00
Please provide your name and contact details.
Online Masses continue...
Join Bishop Steve daily for Mass at 9am https://www.youtube.com/c/CatholicDioceseofHamiltonNZ/featured
Christmas Community Dinner - 11th December 2021
Readings for next Weekend:
First Reading: Jeremiah 31:7-9
Second Reading: Hebrews 5:1-6
Gospel: Mark 10:46-52
Contact Us
Assistant Priest: Fr Isaac Fransen frisaac@hamcathedral.co.nz
Email: newsletter@cathedral.cdh.nz
Website: https://churchwebsite.co.nz/hamcathedral/
Location: 494 Grey St, Hamilton East, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand
Phone: +64 7 856 6486