Feast Days Series: St. Ignatius Loyola: His Legacy and Contemporary Relevance in Spirituality

 

FEAST DAY SERIES:

St.Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, or as it is more commonly known, the Jesuits, left an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape of Christianity and beyond. Ignatius was a Spanish soldier turned priest and theologian in the 16th century during the Catholic Reformation. Today, his influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the Catholic Church, touching individuals and communities across a myriad of spiritual practices worldwide. In our increasingly complex and pluralistic world, the legacy of Ignatius Loyola offers potent insights for seekers of spiritual depth and meaning.

Ignatius' Early Life and Transformation

Born in 1491 in the Basque Country of Spain, Ignatius Loyola was initially driven by worldly ambitions of honor and fame. However, a severe injury during the Battle of Pamplona in 1521 triggered a profound spiritual transformation. While recuperating, Ignatius began reading religious texts, which prompted a spiritual awakening. This experience would lead him to abandon his military career and dedicate his life to the service of God.

The Spiritual Exercises and Ignatian Spirituality

Ignatius Loyola's most significant contribution to spiritual practice is undoubtedly the Spiritual Exercises—a set of meditations, prayers, and mental exercises designed to be carried out over a 30-day retreat under the guidance of a spiritual director. These exercises aim to foster a deep, personal experience of God, promote discernment, and nurture a commitment to service. They underscore Ignatius' belief in the importance of introspection and personal experience in spiritual growth.

In the Exercises, Ignatius proposed the concept of "finding God in all things." This principle encourages individuals to see the divine in everyday experiences and to live their lives as a response to God's love. The Ignatian practice of "examen," a daily reflective prayer focusing on recognizing God's presence and guidance in the day's events, is widely practiced even today.

The Importance of Ignatian Spirituality in Today's World

In a world grappling with social, ecological, and personal challenges, Ignatian spirituality offers valuable resources for individuals seeking depth, meaning, and direction in their lives. Its influence is not restricted to those within the Jesuit or Catholic tradition but extends to anyone interested in introspection and spiritual growth.

1.  Personal Experience and Discernment: Ignatian spirituality's emphasis on personal experience and discernment is particularly relevant in a world of diverse perspectives and complex ethical issues. This approach allows individuals to discern their personal calling and make value-based decisions.

2   Social Justice: The Ignatian principle of "a faith that does justice" encourages individuals to respond to societal injustices. This principle is especially pertinent in our era of growing social and economic disparities, ecological crises, and calls for racial justice.

3.    Finding God in All Things: The Ignatian ethos of finding God in all things encourages a sense of reverence for the world, promoting ecological awareness and care. Furthermore, it provides an antidote to the alienation and isolation many people experience in the modern world, encouraging them to recognize the interconnectedness of all life.

4.    Mindfulness: Ignatian practices like the daily examen align with the growing interest in mindfulness and contemplative practices, offering tools for self-awareness and spiritual well-being.

In a world often marked by distraction, superficiality, and disconnection, the spirituality of St. Ignatius Loyola offers a time-tested path towards depth, engagement, and connection. His legacy invites us to cultivate inner discernment, foster a commitment to justice, embrace the world with reverence, and nurture a meaningful relationship with the divine. His approach, therefore, remains not only relevant but also increasingly necessary in our complex, modern society.

Collect for 17th Sunday Ordinary Time

 

COLLECT SERIES

The Mass: Collect Series Icon:

 

COLLECT

 

The Collect for 17tj Sunday Ordinary Time reads as follows:

O God, protector of those who hope in You,

Without whom nothing has firm foundation,

Nothing is holy,

Bestow in abundance Your mercy upon us and grant that,

With You as our ruler and guide,

We may use the good things that pass in such a way

 as to hold fast even now to those that ever endure.

Through Our Lord Jesus Christ Your Son,

Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God for ever and ever.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

In making this prayer tangible the following reflection questions emerged:

1. How do I relate to God as my protector?
2. How does the gift of hope show in my life?
3. How will the gift of hope be used in my life this coming week?
4. How will I allow Jesus to be my ruler and guide this coming week?
5. What are the good things/temporal things I am grateful for ?
6. What temporal values do I hold too tightly? How will I surrender them this coming week?
7. What spiritual goals will I pursue this coming week?

GOSPEL REFLECTION

In Matthew 13:44-52, we encounter a series of parables shared by Jesus, each containing profound spiritual lessons. These parables provide insights into the kingdom of heaven and offer valuable reflections on faith, discipleship, and the pursuit of eternal treasures.

The first two parables, the "Hidden Treasure" and the "Pearl of Great Value," share a common theme: the incomparable worth of the kingdom of heaven. In the first parable, a man discovers a hidden treasure buried in a field and, recognizing its value, sells all that he has to acquire the field and claim the treasure for himself. Similarly, in the second parable, a merchant finds a pearl of extraordinary worth and sells everything he possesses to obtain it. These stories emphasize that encountering the kingdom of heaven is a life-changing event that demands radical commitment. The true seeker of God's kingdom willingly sacrifices all earthly attachments and desires, recognizing the incomparable treasure that awaits them in God's presence.

The third parable, the "Net and the Fish," illustrates the final judgment. Just as a fishing net catches all kinds of fish, the gospel message reaches all people. However, not everyone who hears the message responds positively. In the end, God will separate the righteous from the wicked, welcoming the faithful into His kingdom while condemning the unrepentant.

The fourth parable, the "Householder," demonstrates the importance of understanding and sharing God's truth. A wise scribe, well-versed in the kingdom of heaven, is compared to a householder who brings out both old and new treasures from his storehouse. This teaches us that as believers, we must diligently study God's Word and be ready to draw upon the wisdom of the past while applying it to present circumstances. Our knowledge of God's truth equips us to share His message effectively and lead others to a deeper understanding of His kingdom.

These parables collectively invite us to reflect on the true nature of faith. The pursuit of God's kingdom is not a passive endeavour. It requires an active and deliberate response, a willingness to surrender our old ways, and a readiness to embrace the transformative power of God's truth in our lives. Additionally, these parables encourage us to prioritize eternal values over temporary pleasures and earthly possessions.

In conclusion, Matthew 13:44-52 challenges us to seek God's kingdom with fervor, to recognize its surpassing value, and to be prepared for its final fulfillment. It reminds us that our journey of faith involves sacrifices, sharing the good news with others, and being grounded in the timeless truths of God's Word. May these parables inspire us to live wholeheartedly for God's kingdom, experiencing the joy and fulfillment that come from knowing and serving Him faithfully.

 

 

 

 

About The Mass series Vol 2: Communion Rite Overview Part 1

ABOUT THE MASS SERIES VOL 2.

About the Mass

‘COMMUNION RITE:  PART 1: OVERVIEW’

Now we enter into the second last section of the Mass- namely Communion Rite which is made up of 8 key elements. Each of these elements will be discussed as fully as possible.

 

The elements of the Communion Rite are:

·                     Our Father.

·                     Deliverance Prayer.

·                     Sign of Peace.

·                     Breaking of the Host.

·                     Lamb of God.

·                     Communion.

·                     Silence.

·                     Prayer after Communion.

The rites of preparation for Communion are a structure link between the Eucharistic Prayers and the reception of the Eucharist.  They are to lead directly to the communion of the people.  Their purpose is to prepare the congregation for its participation in the reception of Christ in the Eucharist.  Mutual love and reconciliation are the seeds and the fruits of the sacraments shared in by the priest and the people.

 

At this part in the Mass, we are invited to prepare ourselves well for our personal encounter with Christ in the Eucharist.  We are encouraged during this Communion Rite to show forth signs of the fruit of the Eucharist which is the unity of the Body of Christ, being loved by Christ and loving Him through our love of one another.

 

The Church invites us to view the prayers and actions of the Communion Rite in this light, so that we can enter more fully and ever deeper into our personal encounter with Christ in communion and be as well-disposed as possible. We are encouraged each time that we participate in Mass to have a growing desire to express such dispositions as mutual love, unity and forgiveness.  These are not things that we just think about in Mass, but we need to make conscious concrete decisions about how we might express them in our lives. 

 

I hope that we are all able to seize this wonderful opportunity each time we attend Mass.

About The Mass Series Vol 2: Doxology and Great Amen Eucharistic Prayer Part 8

Recently I attended a talk about the Mass in my parish which encouraged us to go deeper.  As I was listening, my mind digressed and I thought about the series I had started some time ago- namely About the Mass series Vol2 which discusses the details of the Mass in detail.  This talk in the parish has given me fresh incentive to complete the series by the end of 2023..

 Let me take up from my posts in 2022.

 

About the Mass Series Vol 2: 

6. ‘Doxology and Great Amen’.

The Eucharistic Prayer comes to a climax as the priest holds up the consecrated host and chalice and proclaims our thanks and praise with the words: 

‘Through Him, with Him, and in Him,

in the unity of the Holy Spirit 

all glory and honour is yours, Almighty Father, 

for ever and ever’.  

To this we respond ‘Amen’ either spoken or sung.

 

Although this doxology text is Trinitarian in nature, it still has a special emphasis on Christ as the mediator.  The doxology summarizes the Eucharistic Prayer, which concludes, as it began, on an explicit note of praise. The Church offers praise and honour to the Father through Christ who is the High Priest, with Christ who is really present and in Christ who gives himself in the Eucharist to us.  The Church at prayer is united to the Holy Spirit. The priest proclaims the Eucharistic prayer in the name of the congregation. We confirm and approve this action by our response of ‘Amen’, the Hebrew word for ‘So be it’; either in song or loud voice.

 Liturgically, it makes sense therefore for the priest to proclaim these words, as this links him in a very real way his ministerial priesthood, as he is the one who is ‘representing Christ the mediator’ in our midst. By our response, we link ourselves to our ‘own baptismal priesthood’.  Both are important and both need to be liturgically respected in the Mass.

Sound liturgical practice therefore, is for the priest to proclaim the doxology and for the congregation to respond enthusiastically ‘Amen’, rather than being spoken by both priest and congregation together. The priest is representing Christ the mediator in our midst and is being linked with Christ’s priesthood.

Our ‘Amen’ (known as the ‘Great Amen’) completes the Eucharistic prayer and liturgically should be sung where possible.   

 Sound musical and liturgical practice for the Great Amen favours either 4 or 8 Amen's when it is harmonized, repeated or augmented, as it is our ‘Amen’ to each of the three persons of the Trinity, and the final one unites us to our fellow parishioners assembled- the faith community gathered.  

Sound liturgical and theological practice indicates the congregation remain kneeling until the Paten and chalice are placed back onto the altar by the priest, rather than the congregation standing up in the middle of the Great Amen especially when it is sung with 8 Amens.

 What an amazing conclusion to the Eucharistic prayer!!        

Although this prayer is used in the context of The Mass, it can be prayed throughout the day to praise God. It can also be a beautiful prayer for meditation.    

 

Collect for 15th Sunday Year A

 COLLECT SERIES

Collect Series: The Mass

The Collect for the 15th Sunday of Year A reads as follows:

O God, who show the light of Your Truth to those who go astray,

So that they may return to the right path,

Give all who for the faith they profess are accounted Christians

the grace to reject whatever is contrary to the name of Christ

And to strive after all that does it honour.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,

Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God for ever and ever.

In making this prayer tangible for during the week, the following reflection questions emerged:

1. What is the light of Truth that Jesus needs to show me this week in my life?
2. Examine my life and ask what areas have gone astray?
3. What will I choose to do return to the right path( e.g. sacrament of reconciliation, plan my goals and action plan)
4. How do I nurture my faith and how will I nurture it this coming week?
5. What are the temptations in my life which I find difficult to honour Christ?
6. How will I honour Jesus this week?

 

GOSPEL REFLECTION

Today’s Gospel is from Matthew 13: 1-23- the sower and the seed. 

The parable of the Sower in Matthew 13:1-23 is a poignant lesson about the different responses people have towards the Word of God.

Jesus describes four types of soils that seeds fall on, representing different reactions to His message. The first soil is the path, where seeds are eaten by birds. This symbolizes those who hear the Word but do not understand it, and the evil one snatches it away. The second soil is rocky, where seeds spring up quickly but wither due to lack of roots. This represents those who initially receive the Word with joy, but quickly fall away when troubles arise because their faith is shallow. The third soil is thorny, where seeds are choked by worries and the deceitfulness of wealth. This symbolizes those who hear the Word but allow worldly anxieties and materialistic desires to choke out their faith. The final soil is good, where seeds produce a bountiful crop. This represents those who hear, understand, and accept the Word, bearing fruit in their lives.

This parable offers deep insights for personal introspection. It invites us toexamine our own lives and ask: "What kind of soil am I?"

It is a call to self-awareness and change, encouraging us to strive to be the good soil that hears, understands, and produces fruit. It reminds us that faith isn't just about hearing or accepting the Word, but about understanding it and letting it transform us.

It also offers a broader perspective on evangelization. Not everyone will accept or understand God's Word, and not everyone who initially accepts it will remain steadfast. Some will be distracted by life's worries or seduced by material wealth. But there will be others who accept it, understand it, and let it bear fruit in their lives. The sower's job is not to predetermine the soil's nature but to sow generously.

In conclusion, this parable isn't just a reflection on individual responses to God's Word but also a reflection on the Kingdom of God itself. Like a seed sown in good soil, the Kingdom begins small but grows and produces a great harvest. Even when faced with setbacks and challenges, the potential for growth and transformation is immense when the Word of God is accepted and understood.

 

Discipleship and Evangelisation

 What is Discipleship and Evangelisation?

Jesus: Faith Nurturing Series.

Discipleship and evangelization are both important aspects of the Christian faith, but they involve different focuses and activities. Here's how you can distinguish between the two:

1. Definition:
• Discipleship: Discipleship refers to the process of following Jesus Christ, growing in faith, and becoming more like Him. It involves deepening one's relationship with God, studying His Word (the Bible), and applying biblical teachings to one's life.
• Evangelization: Evangelization refers to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others, specifically those who have not yet embraced the Christian faith. It involves proclaiming the Gospel message, inviting others to experience a relationship with Jesus, and encouraging them to become disciples.
2. Target Audience:
• Discipleship: Discipleship primarily focuses on nurturing and equipping existing believers to become mature followers of Christ. It involves supporting and guiding fellow Christians in their spiritual journey.
• Evangelization: Evangelization primarily targets individuals who are outside the Christian faith or have not yet encountered the Gospel. It aims to reach out to non-believers, sharing the message of salvation and inviting them to accept Jesus as their Savior.
3. Activities:
• Discipleship: Discipleship involves activities such as Bible study, prayer, worship, mentoring, fellowship within Christian communities, and personal spiritual growth. It emphasizes teaching and guiding believers in their understanding of the faith and helping them apply it to their lives.
• Evangelization: Evangelization involves activities such as sharing personal testimonies, preaching, teaching about Jesus and His teachings, engaging in conversations about faith, answering questions about Christianity, and inviting others to explore the Gospel message. It focuses on spreading the good news and drawing people to faith in Jesus.

 

4. Timing and Focus:
• Discipleship: Discipleship is an ongoing process that begins after someone has made a decision to follow Jesus. It emphasizes the growth and development of individuals in their faith, with a focus on their relationship with God and the transformation of their character to become more Christ-like.
• Evangelization: Evangelization usually takes place before someone becomes a disciple of Jesus. It aims to introduce people to the person and message of Jesus, inviting them to make a decision to follow Him and enter into a discipleship journey.

In summary, discipleship focuses on nurturing and equipping existing believers to grow in their faith, while evangelization is concerned with sharing the Gospel and inviting non-believers to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. Both are essential components of the Christian faith and work together to fulfil the Great Commission of making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

 

 

 

 

 

Collect for Fourteenth Sunday Year A

 COLLECT SERIES

Collect Series: The Mass

COLLECT FOR 14^TH SUNDAY ORDINARY TIME

 

The Collect for the 14th Sunday of Year A reads as follows:

O God, who in the abasement of Your Son1,

Have raised up a fallen world,

Fill your faithful with holy joy,

For on those you have rescued from slavery to sin

You bestow eternal gladness.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,

Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God for ever and ever.

In making this prayer tangible for during the week, the following reflection questions emerged:

1. .  W    What does it mean for me that Christ has raised a fallen world?

2.   What is the slavery and sin in my life?

3.   What does it mean for me to have eternal gladness.

 4.  How can I have eternal gladness every day? 

5.   What is holy joy and how may this holy joy be evident in my life.

GOSPEL REFLECTION

Matthew 11:25-30 is a significant passage in the Bible where Jesus offers a profound reflection on the nature of God's wisdom, the burdens of life, and the rest found in Him. Let's dive into this passage and explore its meaning and implications.

In this passage, Jesus begins by addressing the Father and acknowledging that the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven are hidden from the wise and learned but revealed to the childlike. This statement highlights an important aspect of our relationship with God. It suggests that intellectual knowledge or human wisdom alone is insufficient to grasp the deep truths of God's kingdom. Instead, childlike humility, trust, and openness are required to truly understand and receive the revelation of God's wisdom.

Jesus then proceeds to invite all who are burdened and weary to come to Him for rest. This invitation is a powerful reminder that life can often weigh us down with its struggles, challenges, and anxieties. But Jesus offers a comforting promise: He is willing to bear our burdens and provide us with rest. This rest is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional, a deep and profound peace that comes from surrendering our worries and finding solace in Him.

Furthermore, Jesus contrasts His yoke with the burdens imposed by the world. A yoke is a wooden frame used to connect two animals, enabling them to work together and share the load. Jesus assures us that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. In other words, when we choose to follow Him and align ourselves with His teachings, we discover that His ways are not oppressive or burdensome. Instead, His yoke brings liberation, guidance, and a sense of purpose. His burden is one of love, grace, and truth, which empowers us to navigate life's challenges with a renewed perspective and strength.

This passage is a call to find rest and solace in Jesus, to approach Him with childlike faith and humility, and to entrust our burdens to Him. It reminds us that we do not have to carry the weight of the world on our own. We are invited to exchange our heavy burdens for the light yoke of Jesus, to walk in His ways, and to experience the transformative power of His love and grace.

In a world that often demands self-reliance and the constant pursuit of success, this passage offers a profound message of hope and reassurance. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, and that true rest and peace can be found in Jesus. By embracing His teachings and surrendering our burdens to Him, we can find comfort, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose as we walk alongside Him.

Ultimately, Matthew 11:25-30 serves as a reminder of God's invitation to us, His unwavering love, and His desire to provide us with rest and peace amidst life's challenges. It encourages us to approach God with childlike trust and to find solace in His presence, knowing that He is ready to walk with us and bear our burdens.

 

Collect for 13th Sunday Ordinary Time

COLLECT SERIES. 

The Collect for the 13th Sunday of Year A reads as follows:

O God, who through the grace of adoption chose us to be children of light,

grant, we pray, that we may not be wrapped in the darkness of error

but always be seen to stand in the bright light of truth.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

In making this prayer tangible for during the week, the following reflection questions emerged:

1.    What does the grace of adoption mean to me?

2.    How have I chosen to be a child of the light in this last week?

3.    How will choose to be a child of God and live in His light this week?

4.    How self-aware of my fragilities, weaknesses, and sinfulness?

5.    In what ways will I repent this week and ask God’s forgiveness?

6.    In what areas of my life am I still wrapped in the darkness of error?

7.    What resolve do I need to make about standing in the bright light of truth?.

 

 GOSPEL REFLECTION

This passage is a profound teaching of Jesus Christ, where He delineates the essence of discipleship and underlines the principle of hospitality.

The first part of the passage establishes the concept of self-sacrifice in the path of discipleship. When Jesus says, "Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me," He is referring to a metaphorical cross that each of us must carry. This involves accepting and enduring the challenges, hardships, and personal sacrifices that may come with following Christ's teachings. It is an invitation to place the spiritual journey and the

pursuit of righteousness above our personal desires and comfort.

The passage then delves into a paradoxical statement about life: "Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it." This can be seen as a call to shift our focus from materialistic and temporal gains to a more transcendent understanding of life that includes service, sacrifice, and spiritual growth. Those who 'lose' their life by dedicating it to Christ's teachings will, paradoxically, 'find' a deeper, more

meaningful existence.

In the second part of the passage, the emphasis is on the virtue of hospitality and the reciprocal nature of kindness. Christ teaches that the act of welcoming His disciples is tantamount to welcoming Him and God the Father, implying the interconnectedness of all those who pursue righteousness. The reference to giving a cup of cold water to one of the little ones stresses the importance of even the smallest act of kindness. It underscores that rewards in the Kingdom of Heaven are not solely based on grand acts but also on simple, everyday acts of love and kindness.

In summary, this passage from Matthew encapsulates the essence of Christian discipleship: it demands self-sacrifice and self-denial, values spiritual and eternal gains over material ones, and emphasizes the significance of hospitality and kindness, even in the smallest of actions.