Solemnity of St. Columba

God has visited his people

 When the Lord saw her he felt sorry for her. “Do not cry” he said. We meet Jesus in the Gospel story of this week confronted with a heart-rending scene. A woman, who was a widow, was bringing her only son for burial. He could have passed on by, but does not. Instead he brings new life to her by giving her back her son. One of the lovely features of the Gospels is the way Jesus treats women with such dignity. In the culture of his day women were very much second-class citizens. In his eyes they were very precious. This was a scandal to many of those who opposed him. We are still fighting that battle today in both the Church and society. Many words are used about equality but actions are very often a denial of these words. The first place where this equality needs to take place is in marriage and family life. The second place has to be the community that professes faith in Jesus Christ.

Johnny Doherty, C.Ss.R.

 Morning Prayer, when together

God of wisdom and love, source of all good,

send your Spirit to teach us your truth,

and guide our actions in your way of peace..

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

During the day, when apart

Lord, look with love on our service.

Accept the gift of our marriage

and help us grow in Christian love.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

Evening/Night Prayer together

Lord, may your healing love

turn us towards one another in our marriage

and keep us on the way that leads to you.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Questions for Action for the week

 For your marriage: When have you felt most in love with your wife/husband?

Relive those times this week.

For others: Do you know anyone who is very ill at present?

How could you comfort them this week?