Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary Time

THE COUPLE THAT PRAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER.

 Fr. Johnny Doherty, C.Ss.R.

25th – 31st August 2024

 It is the Spirit that gives life

Jesus said to the Twelve: “Do you want to go away too?” Simon Peter answered: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the message of eternal life.” With all the scandals and consequent upheaval in the Church today, many people are finding it difficult to stay with the Church. And many are leaving. Today’s Gospel is a strong plea to think again. This does not mean turning a blind eye to all that has happened. That would be totally irresponsible. It does mean though getting back to the basics of what the Church is about, Jesus Christ, and committing ourselves to him again. We do this by committing ourselves to one another in marriage; by making our homes, the place where we live, the best part of our lives; and by making a commitment to develop our parish community as a place where everyone is reverenced and loved and where we worship our God in spirit and in truth.

Morning Prayer, when together

Father, help us to see 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, you have made us your people

through the death and resurrection of your Son.

Help us to live as your people by the way we love,

in marriage, in family life and in our community.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

Evening/Night Prayer together

Lord, may our sacrament of marriage

increase in us the healing power of your love.

May it 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 gift could you give your wife/husband this week?

For others: Could you enable some couple to take time out for themselves this week?

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