Newsletter- 22nd Week of OrdinaryTime
Dear Friends,
As we come together this Sunday, our Gospel reading from Mark invites us to reflect on what truly matters in our lives and faith. In this passage, Jesus challenges the Pharisees and scribes who are more concerned with external rituals than with the state of their hearts. He reminds us that it’s not the outward traditions that make us pure, but rather what flows from within us—our thoughts, words, and actions.
This message speaks powerfully to our everyday lives. We live in a world that often places great importance on appearances—on doing the right things, saying the right things, and following the “rules” that society or tradition might impose. Yet, Jesus calls us to look beyond what is seen on the outside and examine what’s happening within our hearts. Are we acting out of love, compassion, and sincerity, or are we simply going through the motions without a genuine connection to God and others?
In our daily interactions, whether with family, friends, colleagues, or strangers, we have the opportunity to reflect what’s in our hearts. Jesus reminds us that it’s not what comes from outside that defines a person, but what comes from within. Negative thoughts, pride, envy, and deceit can easily take root if we’re not careful. Let’s take this as a moment to pause and ask ourselves: How are we living out our faith not just in what we do, but in who we are deep down?
As we reflect on this Gospel, let us seek God’s grace to transform our hearts, so that we may live in a way that truly reflects His love and mercy in all we seek to do.
We are also pleased to welcome Father Jonathan back after his 10 days away. He will be celebrating Mass for us this Tuesday. We hope he has had a restful and much-needed break, and we look forward to his return, renewed and ready to continue leading us in our journey of faith.
May this week be filled with God’s blessings for each of you, and may we all continue to grow in love, authenticity, and holiness together.
With all my prayers and best wishes,
Andrew
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