In a heartwarming celebration this May, St Michael’s Catholic Primary Academy and Nursery honoured the month dedicated to Mary with a special afternoon liturgy. The event marked the blessing of a newly established prayer area within the school grounds, which now features a beautiful statue of Our Lady. This gathering was not only a testament to the academy’s devotion but also an opportunity to reflect on the significant role Mary played in her son’s life and mission.

The liturgy was a profound expression of faith, encompassing a variety of readings, prayers and hymns dedicated to Mary. These elements came together to create a deeply moving experience for all attendees. The highlight of the ceremony was an inspiring address by Reverend McKearney, who eloquently articulated why Mary holds such a pivotal place in our spiritual lives. The event culminated with a serene and contemplative Litany, leaving everyone with a sense of peace and reverence.

Reflecting on this beautiful afternoon, Reverend McKearney shared his thoughts:

“It was wonderful to be asked to be a part of this liturgy in honour of Our Lady in one of our family schools in the St Francis and Claire MAC. I’m always bowled over by the energy and enthusiasm of our primary students and it was an absolute joy and privilege to be able to share this time of prayer with them. Thank you to Mr Jewkes and Miss Hughes for inviting me.”

Reverend McKearney’s words captured the essence of the occasion, highlighting the vibrant spirit of the students and the collective devotion of the St Michael’s community. The new prayer area and the statue of Our Lady are now blessed spaces where students and staff can retreat for reflection and prayer, enhancing their spiritual journey within the academy environment.

This event was a beautiful reminder of the importance of Mary in our faith and a celebration of the academy’s commitment to maintaining a strong spiritual foundation. St Michael’s Catholic Primary Academy and Nursery continues to inspire with its dedication to honouring significant figures in our faith, providing students with opportunities to grow in their spiritual lives.

As we continue through the academic year, the newly blessed prayer area will undoubtedly become a cherished spot within the academy grounds, a symbol of the community’s devotion, and a testament to the enduring love and honour they hold for Our Lady.

Today, we joyfully celebrate the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commemorating the visit of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth. This beautiful event, recorded in the Gospel of Luke, is rich in meaning and offers profound lessons for our faith and daily lives.

The story of the Visitation is found in Luke 1:39-56. After the Annunciation, when the Angel Gabriel announced that she would conceive by the Holy Spirit and bear the Son of God, Mary set out “with haste” to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who was also miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist. Upon Mary’s arrival, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaimed, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:42-43).

In response, Mary proclaimed her Magnificat, a song of praise and thanksgiving to God: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour” (Luke 1:46-47).

Lessons from the Visitation:

1. Faith and Obedience: Mary’s journey to visit Elizabeth highlights her obedience to God’s will. Despite the uncertainties and potential difficulties of her own situation, she responds with faith and action. Her willingness to serve others even in her time of need exemplifies the selflessness and trust in God that we are called to emulate.
2. Joy and Recognition: Elizabeth’s greeting and the leaping of John the Baptist in her womb signify the recognition of the presence of the Lord. This moment is filled with joy and prophetic insight. It reminds us to be attuned to the presence of God in our lives and to respond with joy and gratitude.
3. Humility and Praise: The Magnificat is a profound expression of humility and praise. Mary acknowledges her lowliness and extols the greatness of God, who “has done great things” for her. This canticle incites us to reflect on our own lives, recognising God’s blessings and expressing our gratitude and praise.

The Visitation is not only a historical event but also a significant part of Catholic devotion. It is one of the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary, inviting us to meditate on this encounter and its spiritual implications. The feast also highlights the virtues of charity, humility and joy.

Living the Spirit of the Visitation:

1. Service and Charity: Mary’s visit to Elizabeth was an act of service. In our own lives, we are called to serve others, particularly those in need. Acts of kindness, support and presence can bring comfort and joy to those around us, reflecting the love of Christ.
2. Community and Support: The interaction between Mary and Elizabeth emphasises the importance of community and mutual support. We are encouraged to build strong, supportive relationships within our families, parishes and communities, where faith can be shared and nurtured.
3. Prayer and Reflection: The Magnificat is a powerful prayer that can be incorporated into our daily devotions. Reflecting on its words helps us cultivate a spirit of gratitude and trust in God’s providence.

The Feast of the Visitation of Mary is a celebration of faith, joy and service. It reminds us of the importance of recognising God’s presence in our lives and responding with love and action. As we honour this special day, let us strive to follow Mary’s example of humility, charity and praise, bringing the light of Christ to those we encounter.

May the Blessed Virgin Mary, who bore the Saviour and brought joy to her cousin, Elizabeth, inspire us to live lives of deep faith and compassionate service.

Blessed Feast of the Visitation!

Today, we joyfully celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, also known as the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. This significant feast day honours the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, a central tenet of our Catholic faith. It is a day to reflect on the profound mystery of the Eucharist and its vital role in our spiritual lives.

The Feast of Corpus Christi was established in the 13th century, inspired by the visions of St Juliana of Liège. She experienced a deep devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and longed for a feast dedicated to the Eucharist. her visions and advocacy led Pope Urban IV to institute the feast in 1264 with the papal bull Transiturus de hoc mundo. This feast allows the faithful to give public adoration and reverence to the Eucharist.

At the heart of Corpus Christi is the belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. During the Mass, through the consecration of the bread and wine, they become the Body and Blood of Christ. This transformation, known as transubstantiation, is a mystery of faith that calls us to a deeper relationship with Jesus.

In John 6:51, Jesus declares, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” These words remind us that the Eucharist is not just a symbol but a real and substantial presence of Christ among us.

The Second Vatican Council teaches that the Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life” (Lumen Gentium, 11). It is through the Eucharist that we are nourished spiritually, united with Christ, and strengthened to live out our faith in the world. Each time we receive the Eucharist, we are reminded of Christ’s sacrificial love and are called to embody that love in our daily lives.

Corpus Christi is marked by several beautiful traditions that highlight the significance of the Eucharist:

1. Mass and Adoration: Attending Mass and participating in Eucharistic adoration are central to celebrating this feast. Spending time in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament allows us to deepen our relationship with Jesus and reflect on His love and sacrifice.
2. Processions: Many parishes hold Eucharistic processions, where the Blessed Sacrament is carried through the streets, accompanied by hymns and prayers. This public display of faith is a powerful witness to the world of Christ’s presence among us.
3. Reflection and Prayer: Take time to meditate on the mystery of the Eucharist. Reflect on how Christ’s presence in the Eucharist impacts your life and strengthens your faith. Prayers such as the Anima Christi and the Prayer of St Thomas Aquinas for Before and After Communion can enrich this reflection.

Celebrating Corpus Christi goes beyond the feast day itself; it is an invitation to live a Eucharistic life. This means allowing the grace we receive in the Eucharist to transform us, so we can be Christ’s hands and feet in the world. As St Teresa of Calcutta said, “We cannot separate our lives from the Eucharist, to moment we do, something breaks.”

By living a Eucharistic life, we strive to embody the love, mercy and service of Christ in our interactions with others. We are called to be a source of nourishment and hope to those around us, especially the marginalised and the suffering.

As we celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, let us renew our devotion to the Eucharist, recognising it as the true presence of Christ and the heart of our faith. May this feast deepen our love for the Blessed Sacrament and inspire us to live lives that reflect the transformative power of Christ’s Body and Blood.

“O Sacrament most holy, O Sacrament divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine.”

As we transition from the vibrant celebrations of Easter into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time, Catholics are invited to reflect on the deeper meaning of this period. While it might seem less eventful compared to the dramatic observances of Lent, Easter and Advent, Ordinary Time is a crucial part of the Church’s liturgical calendar. It offers us a unique opportunity for steady spiritual growth and deeper engagement with our faith in the rhythm of everyday life.

The term “Ordinary Time” might initially appear to suggest something mundane or unremarkable, but it derives from the Latin word “ordinals”, which means “numbered” or “ordered”. This season is called “ordinary” because it refers to the ordered weeks that fall outside of the major liturgical seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter. Ordinary Time is divided into two periods: the first starts after the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord and lasts until Ash Wednesday, and the second begins after Pentecost and continues until the start of Advent.

The liturgical colour for Ordinary Time is green, symbolising growth and new life. This is fitting as Ordinary Time is a season of maturation and deepening of our faith. Just as green leaves and grass indicate health and vitality in nature, the green vestments worn by priests during this time remind us of the spiritual growth and renewal that should characterise our journey through these weeks.

Ordinary Time provides a spiritual framework that encourages us to grow in our relationship with God through consistent, everyday practices. Here are a few ways we can embrace this season:

1. Deepening Prayer Life: Without the pressing demands of fasting or feasting, Ordinary Time allows for a steady and sustained focus on personal prayer. This is a perfect opportunity to develop a daily prayer routine, whether through the Liturgy of the Hours, the Rosary ot personal meditation.
2. Engagement with Scripture: The Gospels read during Ordinary Time recount Jesus’ teachings and miracles. These passages provide rich material for reflection and application in our daily lives. Setting aside time each day to read and meditate on Scripture can help us to internalise Christ’s message and better live out our faith.
3. Acts of Charity: Ordinary Time calls us to live out the love of Christ in practical ways. Engaging in acts of charity and service, whether within our families, parishes or broader communities, is a concrete way grow in virtue and compassion.
4. Participation in the Sacraments: Regular participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, sustains our spiritual health. Receiving the sacraments with devotion helps us to remain close to God and strengthens us against the challenges of daily life.

Ordinary Time challenges us to find the sacred in the ordinary. It is a reminder that holiness is not confined to special seasons but is found in the everyday moments of our lives. This period teaches us that every day is an opportunity to encounter God’s grace, whether in our work, relationships or personal struggles.

Many saints’ feast days are celebrated during Ordinary Time, providing us with models of holiness and perseverance. Reflecting on their lives can inspire us to live out our faith more fully. Saints like St Therese of Lisieux, who found holiness in her “little way” of small, everyday sacrifices, remind us that ordinary acts of love and faithfulness can lead to extraordinary sanctity.

As we enter into Ordinary Time, let us embrace this season as a time of steady growth and deepening faith. By focusing on daily practices of prayer, scripture reading, acts of charity and participation in the sacraments, we can cultivate a vibrant and resilient spirituality. Ordinary Time is not a time of spiritual dormancy but a season rich with opportunities for renewal and transformation. may we journey through these weeks with open hearts, seeking to encounter God in the ordinary moments of our lives, and emerge with a faith that is stronger and more deeply rooted in Christ.

As Catholics around the world prepare to celebrate Pentecost, we enter into a sacred season of renewal, rejoicing in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. Pentecost marks the culmination of the Easter season, commemorating the momentous event when the disciples received the promised gift of the Holy Spirit, empowering them to boldly proclaim the Gospel to all nations.

The feast of Pentecost finds its roots in the Jewish festival of Shavuot, which commemorates the giving of the Law of Moses on Mount Sinai. For Christians, Pentecost represents the fulfilment of another promise – the coming of the Holy Spirit, foretold by Jesus before His ascension into heaven. As the disciples gathered in prayer in the upper room, they were filled with the Holy Spirit in a powerful and transformative way, igniting a flame of faith that would spread though the world.

The account of Pentecost in Acts of the Apostles vividly describes the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples with tongues of fire and the gift of speaking in different languages. This miraculous event not only emboldened the disciples to proclaim the Gospel fearlessly but also symbolised the universality of the Church, which transcends linguistic and cultural barriers to embrace people of every nation, tribe and tongue.

In receiving the Holy Spirit, the disciples were equipped with supernatural gifts and charisms, empowering them to fulfil the mission entrusted to them by Christ. They were emboldened to preach the Good News, to heal the sick, to cast out demons, and to baptise converts into the faith. Through the Holy Spirit, the Church was born – a living and dynamic communion of believers united in Christ and guided by His Spirit.

The feast of Pentecost reminds us that the same Holy Spirit who descended upon the disciples continues to dwell within the Church and within each one of us. Through the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, we are sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit, equipping us for our mission as disciples of Christ and witnesses of His love and mercy.

As Catholics, we are called to be docile to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to guide and empower us in our journey of faith. Whether through acts of charity, evangelisation or prayer, we are invited to cooperate with the Spirit’s work of renewal and transformation in the world. Like the disciples at Pentecost, we are called to be bold and courageous in our witness to the Gospel. trusting in the Spirit’s guidance and strength to lead us wherever He may send us.

As we celebrate Pentecost, let us open our hearts to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, inviting Him to renew and rejuvenate our faith. May we be inspired by the example of the early Church, whose fervent prayer and openness to the Spirit’s guidance led to a great outpouring of grace and the spread of the Gospel to the ends of the earth. May we, as members of the Church, continue to be instruments of God’s love and mercy, bearing witness to the risen Christ, continue to be instruments of God’s love and mercy, bearing witness to the risen Christ and His saving message in the world today.

As the Feast Day of Our Lady of Fatima dawns upon us, Catholics around the world are called to commemorate the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. This sacred occasion holds deep significance within the Catholic faith, serving as a reminder of Mary’s maternal love, intercession, and the urgent call to conversion and prayer.

In the spring of 1917, three young shepherd children – Lucia dos Santos and her cousins, Francisco and Jacinta Marto – experienced a series of extraordinary visions of the Virgin Mary while tending their sheep in Fatima. Over the course of six months, Mary appeared to the children, delivering messages of peace, repentance and prayer.

At the heart of Mary’s message was a call to conversion and penance, urging humanity to turn away from sin and return to God with sincere hearts. She revealed to the children the reality of hell and the importance of offering prayer and sacrifices for the salvation of souls. Through her apparitions, Our Lady of Fatima emphasised the power of prayer, particularly the Rosary, as a means of obtaining peace for the world and the conversion of sinners.

On 13th October 1917, the culmination of the Fatima apparitions occured with the Miracle of the Sun – a miraculous event witnessed by thousands of onlookers gathered at the Cova da Iria. As the sun danced in the sky, emitting vibrant colours and appearing to descend towards the Earth, the crowds were filled with awe and wonder, recognising the supernatural nature of this event.

The Miracle of the Sun served as a confirmation of the authenticity of the Fatima apparitions and underscored the urgency of Mary’s message for the world. It was a powerful manifestation of God’s presence and a call to faith, inspiring countless individuals to turn to Our Lady of Fatima in prayer and devotion.

Nearly a century later, the message of Our Lady of Fatima remains as relevant and urgent as ever. In a world plagued by division, violence and moral decay, Mary’s call to prayer, penance and conversion resonates deeply with believers. she invites us to heed her words and embrace the path of holiness and reconciliation, trusting in God’s mercy and grace.

As we commemorate the Feast Day of Our Lady of Fatima, let us recommit ourselves to prayer and penance for the conversion of hearts and the establishments of peace in our world. May we draw inspiration from the faith and devotion of the shepherd children of Fatima, who responded to Mary’s call with unwavering trust and love. May Our Lady of Fatima, Queen of Peace, intercede for us and guide us on our journey of faith, leading us ever closer to her Son, Jesus Christ.

Ascension Thursday marks a pivotal moment in the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church – the solemn commemoration of Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven. This profound event, which occurred forty days after Easter, holds deep significance for us, reminding us of Christ’s victory over sin and death, and the promise of eternal life that awaits us in heaven.

The ascension of Jesus Christ is a testament to his divine nature and mission. As Catholics, we believe that Christ, fully human and fully divine, ascended into heaven to take his rightful place at the right hand of the Father, where he intercedes for us and reigns in glory. This momentous event not only fulfilled the promises of the prophets but also inaugurated the age of the Church, empowering the apostles to proclaim the Gospel to all nations.

The ascension is a source of hope and consolation, reminding us that Jesus Christ is not absent from our lives but present in a new and profound way. Through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Christ continues to be present in his Church, guiding, sanctifying and empowering us to be his witness in the world. As Pope Benedict XVI once remarked, “The Ascension does not point to Jesus’ absence, but tells us that he is alive in our midst in a new way.”

Moreover, the ascension challenges us to lift our gaze heavenward and to seek the things that are above. In a world often consumed by materialism, individualism and instant gratification, the ascension invites us to fix our eyes on the eternal truths of the Gospel and to live with a sense of purpose and mission. As St Paul reminds us, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2).

Ascension Thursday also serves as a reminder of our own destiny and calling as disciples of Christ. Just as Jesus ascended into heaven, so too are we called to ascend – to rise above the cares and concerns of this world and to seek the things of God. This journey of ascent is not easy, nor is it without its challenges, but it is a journey that ultimately leads to the fullness of life and communion with God.

On this Ascension Thursday, let us take time to reflect on the profound mystery of Christ’s ascension and its implications for our lives. Let us lift our hearts in gratitude for the gift of salvation and the promise of eternal life that Christ has won for us. Let us renew our commitment to follow him faithfully, trusting in his guidance and grace as we strive to build his kingdom of justice, peace and love here on earth.

Today the Catholic Church commemorates the Feast Day of Saint Philip and Saint James, two of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ to spread the Good News to the ends of the earth. Though their names may be as familiar as some of their counterparts, their steadfast commitment to Christ and their bold witness to the Gospel continue to inspire believers around the world.

Saint Philip and Saint James were among the earliest followers of Jesus, called to leave behind their livelihoods and families to become fishers of men. Alongside their fellow apostles, they journeyed with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, and received His teachings firsthand. After the resurrection, they spread the message of salvation, laying the foundation for the early Christian Church.

Philip is often remembered for his quest for truth and understanding. In the Gospel of John, we see him grappling with questions and seeking clarity from Jesus Himself. His encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch, whom he guided to a deeper understanding of Scripture, exemplifies his role as a faithful disciple and evangelist. Philip’s humility and openness to God’s guidance serve as an example for all who seek to know and follow Christ.

James, also known as James the Just, distinguished himself through his life of prayer and service to the early Christian community. As the leader of the Church in Jerusalem, he played a pivotal role in guiding and shepherding the faithful amidst persecution and challenges. His emphasis on the importance of both faith and works underscores the integral connection between belief and action in the Christian life.

The lives of Saint Philip and Saint James reflect the essence of the apostolic mission: to proclaim the Gospel with zeal and to bear witness to the love and mercy of Christ. Like them, we are called to share the Good News in word and deed, reaching out to those in need and inviting others into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Their feast day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to continue the work of evangelisation and discipleship in our time.

As we celebrate the Feast of Saint Philip and Saint James, let us take time to reflect on their lives and the example they set for us. May we, like them, be faithful disciples and bold witnesses to the truth of the Gospel. Let us pray for the grace to follow their example of humility, courage and love, trusting in God’s providence as we strive to fulfil the mission entrusted to us.

On this Feast Day of Saint Philip and Saint James, let us honour their memory and recommit ourselves to the work of building God’s kingdom here on Earth. May their intercession strengthen us in our faith and inspire us to live lives worthy of our calling as followers of Christ. May their example inspire us to embrace our own call to mission and to share the joy of the Gospel with all whom we encounter.

Saint Philip and Saint James – Pray for us