21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

THE COUPLE THAT PRAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER.

Fr. Johnny Doherty, C.Ss.R.

Sunday 27 August 2023

 On this Rock I will build my Church

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” This is the core of our faith as followers of Christ. A way of restating this is that Christ is the one above all others who can teach us the fullness of human life. And he teaches us that the only way to full human living is to love God with our whole heart and to love our neighbour as ourselves. Married couples are the great prophets of this way, as love is at the core of their existence. But this love has to be worked at every day. Love does not just mean how we feel but how we choose what is best for each other and for the marriage relationship. These choices have to be made every day and often during many days. The same is true within family life. As we acknowledge the family as the Domestic Church, we know that love is at the centre of it. And certainly if we are to build communities of faith these decisions to love, to make Christ present, are essential.

Morning Prayer, when together

Father, help us to seek the values

that will bring us lasting joy in this changing world.

In our desire for what you promise

make us one in mind and heart.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

 During the day, when apart

Merciful God, through your great love for us

you have made us your people.

In your love, grant peace and unity

to us in our marriage, and to the whole Church.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

Evening/Night Prayer together

Lord, increase within us

the healing power of your love.

Guide and direct our efforts to please you in all things.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

 Questions for Action for the week

 For your marriage: What special surprise could you give your wife/husband this week that would strengthen your love?

 For others: Think of some group that works for the unity of Christians. How could you support that group this week?