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Saint Michael’s Catholic Parish

Nelson Bay

Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

We acknowledge the Worimi people – the traditional custodians of this land

The Ascension of the Lord Year A 24 May 2020

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ

Our gospel last Sunday hinted at the Christ’s ascension, this Sunday, in both

the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles and the Gospel of Mathew we

have accounts of the Ascension. The earthly mission and ministry of Jesus are

now over, and he is now returning to sit at the right hand of God. Jesus trusts

his friends and followers to carry on his work of proclaiming and spreading

the Kingdom of God.

In the first reading, they are told that will be baptised with the Holy Spirit

and in the gospel, he tells them they are witnesses (to this) and that they will

be clothed with power from on high. He knows that they will need help

encouragement and strength for the task that lies ahead of them. This

promise points and leads us directly to Pentecost which we celebrate next

Sunday. Jesus knows that these men and woman will need all the help they can get as they spread

the good news of his resurrection.

Today as the church, we too are called by Christ and sent out just as these first Christians were.

We are asked to proclaim the Kingdom of God, and like them, we too are strengthened by the Holy

Spirit, as St. Paul tells us in Romans 5.5, ‘God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the

Holy Spirit.’ We are Christ’s witnesses today in our homes with our families and with our

neighbours in our parish community. We are called and challenged by Christ not only to hear the

good news of the gospel, but to do whatever we can to share it with others we meet. We do this

through the quality of our daily lives in how we speak to each other and treat each other. As St.

Francis of Assisi reminds us, ‘we must use every means possible to proclaim the gospel and if we

have to, we will have to use words.’

Yours in Christ,

Fr. Anthony Nguyen

PARISH CONTACTS Parish Priest: Fr. Anthony Nguyen

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 0420 401 025

Parish Deacon: Rev. Gerard McCarthy


St. Michael’s Primary School

Principal: Ms Helen Bourne

Office: 4981 1111

Parish Secretary: Alison Keane


www.nelsonbaycatholicchurch.com

Parish Office 12 Sproule Street

(PO Box 7)

NELSON BAY 2315

Phone Number 4981 1069

Please remember in your prayers Those who are sick, those who have died recently

and those whose anniversaries occur during this

time. May I request you to keep all those who are

struck with the virus, those tested positive and

those in isolation in your special prayers.

mailto:[email protected]

Important Notice The dispensation for all the Faithful in the Diocese from the obligation to participate at Mass on Sunday

and Holy Days of obligation (cc.87§1 ;1247) is still in effect. The Faithful are encouraged to keep the Lord's

Day holy and celebrate Sundays as a domestic church by taking time to pray together as a household (c.

1248§2). Please join Live-stream Mass Diocese of Maitland – Newcastle Every Sunday at 9.30am at

https://www.mn.catholic.org.au/places/livestream/

Thank you Thank you to all our parishioners who have continued to contribute to the parish through bank transfers

and credit cards. Donations can be made directly to the parish bank account.

Nelson Bay Parish Account

First Collection: BSB 062815 Acct 00328161 CDF 5159 detail: Surname

Second Collection: BSB 062815 Acct 00328161 CDF 5157 Planned Giving Envelope Number

In order to record planned giving in the parish office, we would suggest the reference be planned giving

number where applicable and surname.

May Mary the Mother of God and St Michael the Archangel continue to bless you and your families and

keep you safe and well at this time.

Please send an email to [email protected] with your details if you require

a tax receipt.

MASSES AND PRAYERS REQUESTED: We remember and pray for those who are ill at

home and in hospital at this time, may they know

the healing presence of Christ: John Lordanie,

Vince Aquilina, John Gatt Joy and Rit Chiarelli.

Anniversary: Barbara Pawlicki, John Watkin

Recently Deceased: Michelle Wann, Fay Bagnal,

Brian Chiarelli.

Masses will be offered on request. Due to privacy laws, names of the sick and

deceased can only be put in the bulletin with the permission of the immediate family.

Parish Office As health regulations are starting

to ease parishioners are able to drop into the

parish office for any parish matters

Wednesdays to Fridays. Please ensure you

maintain the 1.5 metre distancing requirement.

“That the Australian Bishops entrust

Australia to the Immaculate Heart of

Mary under the title Our Lady Help of

Christians, seeking her intercession

for the safety of all our people

especially in this time of COVID-19

pandemic.”

Mary Help of Christians has been the

official patroness of Australia since 1844.

Her feast day is celebrated on May 24,

which this year coincides with the Feast

of the Ascension. The entrustment of

Australia to Mary Help of Christians can

therefore take place on the 24th or the

25th, the bishops agreed.

Entrusting Australia to Mary Help of

Christians

O Immaculate Mary, Help of Christians, Queen of

heaven and earth, and tender Mother of humanity,

at this time when a pandemic threatens all your

children, we entrust to you our nation, Australia,

and all who live in this country.

We commit to your intercession all the members of

our community, beginning with the weakest ones,

from the unborn to the sick, the disabled and the

elderly.

We commit to you our families, our young and old,

and all who are vulnerable, those who are

quarantined or anxious.

We entrust to your Immaculate Heart those who

have lost their livelihood or employment, our

pastors and other essential service workers, and our

leaders at this time.

We implore your intercession especially for the

protection of doctors and nurses and those who

minister to the contagious sick in this crisis.

Reign over us, Mother of God, and teach us how to

make the Heart of Jesus reign and triumph in us

and around us, as it has reigned and triumphed in

you!

https://www.mn.catholic.org.au/places/livestream/

Bishops to entrust Australia to

Mary Help of Christians

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect Australians’ lives, including their worship, the

Catholic bishops will entrust the country to the care of Mary Help of Christians on her feast day

next week.

In a message issued as “A word of encouragement to the Catholic people of Australia”, the

bishops noted that the country “has certainly suffered because of the pandemic, but not as

grievously as some other countries”.

“For that we thank God and we congratulate public health authorities and governments on their

prompt and prudent responses,” the bishops wrote.

“Australians in general have also shown the solidarity and good sense, the generosity and

kindness needed in such a time. In our healthcare workers particularly we have seen an

exceptional spirit of self-sacrifice, and for that we are all grateful.”

The bishops also acknowledge the role that churches and other religious communities have

played, which has included the suspension of public worship and the closure of places of worship.

“This has been a real deprivation, and the bishops understand not only your anxiety about the

virus and shutdown but more especially your deep desire to return to the sacraments and to

resume public worship,” they wrote.

“There is a real hunger in this. It is something we all feel, and we long for the time when our

hunger will be satisfied as together we return to the feast of the Lord.”

The letter reflects on the message of the Easter season, saying while there is “no room for

complacency” as Australia appears to emerge from the worst of the pandemic, “there is certainly

room for the hope that Easter brings to birth”.

The bishops urged the faithful to continue to adhere to government and medical advice, noting

the collaboration between those authorities and Catholic leaders to support the re-opening of

churches and the staged resumption of public worship.

The bishops approved the entrustment of the country to Mary Help of Christians during this

week’s plenary meeting, conducted using videoconference technology.

The motion read: “That the Australian Bishops entrust Australia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

under the title Our Lady Help of Christians, seeking her intercession for the safety of all our

people especially in this time of COVID-19 pandemic.

Mary Help of Christians has been the official patroness of Australia since 1844. Her feast day is

celebrated on 24 May, which this year coincides with the Feast of the Ascension. The entrustment

of Australia to Mary Help of Christians can therefore take place on the 24th or the 25th, the

bishops agreed.

A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT TO THE CATHOLIC PEOPLE OF

AUSTRALIA FROM THE BISHOPS OF AUSTRALIA

Dear brothers and sisters,

Grace and peace to you in these Easter days. We write to you from a plenary meeting

of the Bishops Conference which is like no other. Unable to meet face-to-face as we normally

do, the bishops are meeting online for a week. We are intensely conscious of our isolation – not

only from each other but also from you, the people whom we serve in the name of the Risen Lord.

As we think of you, we make our own the words of St Paul: “So deeply do we care for you that

we are determined to share with you not only the Gospel of God but also our own selves, because

you have become very dear to us” (1 Thessalonians 2:8).

Australia has certainly suffered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but not as grievously

as some other countries. For that we thank God and we congratulate public health

authorities and governments on their prompt and prudent responses. Australians in general

have also shown the solidarity and good sense, the generosity and kindness needed in such a time.

In our healthcare workers particularly we have seen an exceptional spirit of self-sacrifice, and for

that we are all grateful.

The Churches and other religious communities have played their part, which has meant

the suspension of public worship and the closure of places of worship. This has been a real

deprivation, and the bishops understand not only your anxiety about the virus and shutdown but

more especially your deep desire to return to the sacraments and to resume public worship. There

is a real hunger in this. It is something we all feel, and we long for the time when our hunger will

be satisfied as together we return to the feast of the Lord.

Even when our doors are closed, our hearts are still open. The churches may not yet be

fully open, but the heart of the Church, which is the heart of Christ, is wide open. The celebration

of Mass has never ceased. Though we and our brother priests cannot yet offer Mass with the

people, we are still offering Mass day by day for the people – for all of you who are “flesh of our

flesh and bone of our bone” (cf Genesis 2:23). The Church which is the Body of Christ still glows

with the life of Easter, “thought to be dying, yet we are alive…to be sorrowful, yet still

rejoicing…to have nothing, yet possessing everything” (2 Corinthians 6:9-10).

At the heart of the community of disciples, there is always Mary the mother of Jesus

(cf Acts 1:14). In this month of May, Pope Francis has urged us to look to her to intercede for us

in this time of affliction; and to Mary we will entrust our homeland later this month, looking to a

mother’s unfailing love. May she who is Health of the Sick and Help of Christians pray for us

now, that we may see Jesus with her eyes, the eyes of Easter, and love him with her heart, which

is the heart of faith: “O Mother of the Word incarnate, despise not our petitions but in your mercy

hear and answer us” (Memorare).

The experience of shutdown has stirred great energy and creativity among people and

pastors; this is producing unexpected gifts which we will take with us into the future. No locked

door can keep the Risen Lord out; he is everywhere, even in this time of distress. “I stand at the

door and knock,” he says. “If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come to you”

(Revelation 3:20). We have heard his voice and opened the door to him who has come to us. That

is the reason for our hope, even our rejoicing.

One important service which people of faith provide to the wider community in this time

is an unceasing prayer of intercession. So we ask you all to continue praying in the power of faith

for those who have died, who are sick or at risk from COVID-19, for our healthcare professionals,

essential service providers and researchers, for all who are isolated and anxious, and for our civic

leaders and health authorities.

In the hope born of faith we look forward to the time when the crisis will pass and we will

be able to resume fully the Church’s worship and mission, even in a landscape which may be

quite changed. In the meantime, we are talking with the states and the federal government about

the reopening of churches and the gradual relaxation of restrictions. We will work with

governments and local authorities at each stage of any resumption of Church life. We commit to

keeping ourselves and each other safe by observing strictly the advice regarding numbers,

distancing and hygiene when the reopening of churches is permitted.

We urge people to abide by the best advice on how to keep themselves and others

safe physically, emotionally and spiritually, especially the vulnerable elderly. That is why we

recommend the live-streamed Masses and the many other resources offered on diocesan

websites, our Catholic counselling services and the COVIDSafe App.

The season of Lent may be behind us, but this time of shutdown has been a kind of long

Lent. Now, we pray, Easter is dawning as our country recovers from the pandemic and looks to

build the future. There is no room for complacency but there is certainly room for the hope that

Easter brings to birth, the hope that “after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace,

who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen and

establish you” (1 Peter 5:10-11). Looking to the God of all grace, we send to you our blessing of

peace and all consolation.

From,

The Catholic Bishops of Australia

14 May 2020

World Youth Day Lisbon 2020 has been postponed and

rescheduled to August 2022 in Lisbon.

Entrusting Australia to Mary Help of Christians

O Immaculate Mary, Help of Christians, Queen of heaven and

earth, and tender Mother of humanity, at this time when a

pandemic threatens all your children, we entrust to you our

nation, Australia, and all who live in this country.

We commit to your intercession all the members of our

community, beginning with the weakest ones, from the unborn

to the sick, the disabled and the elderly.

We commit to you our families, our young and old, and all who

are vulnerable, those who are quarantined or anxious.

We entrust to your Immaculate Heart those who have lost their

livelihood or employment, our pastors and other essential

service workers, and our leaders at this time.

We implore your intercession especially for the protection of

doctors and nurses and those who minister to the contagious

sick in this crisis.

Reign over us, Mother of God, and teach us how to make the

Heart of Jesus reign and triumph in us and around us, as it has

reigned and triumphed in you!

St. Michael – Prayer for us

O Powerful and merciful Father, refreshment of the weary, comfort

in sorrow and strength in our weakness, hear the prayers which we

your children make to you in this difficult time in the world: save

and sustain us in our present need and help us to support one another

and to face the future with courage.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen

Prayer during the coronavirus pandemic

(adapted from the USCCB)

Mary, Help of Christians. We fly to you today as your beloved children. We ask you to

intercede for us with your Son, as you did at the wedding in Cana.

Pray for us, loving Mother, and gain for our nation and world, and for all our families and

loved ones, the protection of God’s holy angels, that we may be spared the worst of this

illness.

For those already afflicted, we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance. Hear

the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful, wipe away their tears and help them to

trust.

In this time of trial and testing, teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be

patient and kind. Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts.

We come to you with confidence, knowing that you truly are our compassionate mother,

health of the sick and cause of our joy. Shelter us under the mantle of your protection, keep

us in the embrace of your arms, help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. Amen

May is the Month of Mary: How can we honour Mary this month?

Simple, pray the rosary. In all the hundreds of apparitions of Mary she has constantly called

us to pray the holy rosary for the salvation of souls. It has been said that each time we pray

the rosary, a rose is added to the crown of Mary. This isn't something that needs to be done

alone or in private. Pray it as a family and allow Mary to wrap her mantle of peace around

you.

Above all, just talk with your mother this month. Tell Mary everything that is on your heart

and ask her to bring you closer to her Son. She loves each one of us immensely and will do

anything to get us to heaven. Show her how much you appreciate her love, care and sacrifice

for you. This goes for both your earthly mother who brought you into this world, as well as

your heavenly mother who will carry you to the next.

Coronavirus Prayer Jesus Christ, you travelled through towns and villages “curing every disease and illness.”

At your command, the sick were made well. Come to our aid now, in the midst of the global

spread of the coronavirus, that we may experience your healing love. Heal those who have

the Coronavirus. Heal us from our fear, which prevents nations from working together and

neighbours from helping one another.

Pope Francis' Prayer Intentions for May: For Deacons We pray

that deacons, faithful in their service to the word and the poor, may be an invigorating

symbol for the entire Church

Easter Offering At this time of the year and over coming weeks the Easter Offering envelopes are normally in the

church. The Easter Offerings are not retained personally by the priests but are a vital supplement

to the First Collection income which provides for the priests of the parish and for the health care

of priests across the diocese and the retirement care of older priests. This fund depends very much

on the income raised by Christmas and Easter Offerings. If you are able to make an Easter

Offering donation to make a direct debit from your account to our First Collection account.

First Collection: BSB 062815 Acct 00328161 CDF 5159 detail: Surname

In the transfer please note that it is for ‘Easter Offering’.

Liturgy of the Hours We can pray the Liturgy of the Hours at home while we cannot gather to pray the Mass

This can be done by going to https://Universalils.com which sets out the prayer in a simple

format. Under Liturgy of the Hours choose the time of day you want to pray. If at the

beginning it feels like the prayer is too much, you don’t have to pray it all; just do what you

are comfortable with.

https://universalils.com/

Important Notice Due to the COVID-19 virus, the Diocese has advised that effective from

Friday 20 March, in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle:

All public Masses are hereby suspended until further notice. Our

Church are to remain closed as well.

Accordingly, this includes a dispensation for all the Faithful in the Diocese

from the obligation to participate at Mass on Sundays and holy days of

obligation (cc.87§1 ;1247). The Faithful are encouraged to keep the Lord’s

Day holy and celebrate Sunday as a domestic church by taking time to pray

together as a household (c. 1248§2).

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The month of May is approaching, a time when the People of God express with particular

intensity their love and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is traditional in this month to

pray the Rosary at home within the family. The restrictions of the pandemic have made us come

to appreciate all the more this “family” aspect, also from a spiritual point of view.

For this reason, I want to encourage everyone to rediscover the beauty of praying the Rosary at

home in the month of May. This can be done either as a group or individually; you can decide

according to your own situations, making the most of both opportunities. The key to doing this

is always simplicity, and it is easy also on the internet to find good models of prayers to follow.

I am also providing two prayers to Our Lady that you can recite at the end of the Rosary, and that

I myself will pray in the month of May, in spiritual union with all of you. I include them with

this letter so that they are available to everyone.

Dear brothers and sisters, contemplating the face of Christ with the heart of Mary our Mother

will make us even more united as a spiritual family and will help us overcome this time of trial.

I keep all of you in my prayers, especially those suffering most greatly, and I ask you, please, to

pray for me. I thank you, and with great affection I send you my blessing.

Rome, Saint John Lateran, 25 April 2020

Feast of Saint Mark the Evangelist

FIRST PRAYER O Mary,

You shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope. We entrust ourselves to

you, Health of the Sick, who, at the foot of the cross, were united with Jesus’ suffering, and

persevered in your faith. “Protectress of the Roman people”, you know our needs, and we know

that you will provide, so that, as at Cana in Galilee, joy and celebration may return after this time

of trial.

Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the will of the Father and to do what

Jesus tells us. For he took upon himself our suffering, and burdened himself with our sorrows to

bring us, through the cross, to the joy of the Resurrection.

Amen.

We fly to your protection, O Holy Mother of God; Do not despise our petitions in our necessities,

but deliver us always from every danger, O Glorious and Blessed Virgin.

SECOND PRAYER

“We fly to your protection, O Holy Mother of God”.

In the present tragic situation, when the whole world is prey to suffering and anxiety, we fly to

you, Mother of God and our Mother, and seek refuge under your protection.

Virgin Mary, turn your merciful eyes towards us amid this coronavirus pandemic. Comfort those

who are distraught and mourn their loved ones who have died, and at times are buried in a way

that grieves them deeply. Be close to those who are concerned for their loved ones who are sick

and who, in order to prevent the spread of the disease, cannot be close to them. Fill with hope

those who are troubled by the uncertainty of the future and the consequences for the economy

and employment.

Mother of God and our Mother, pray for us to God, the Father of mercies, that this great suffering

may end and that hope and peace may dawn anew. Plead with your divine Son, as you did at

Cana, so that the families of the sick and the victims be comforted, and their hearts be opened to

confidence and trust.

Protect those doctors, nurses, health workers and volunteers who are on the frontline of this

emergency, and are risking their lives to save others. Support their heroic effort and grant them

strength, generosity and continued health.

Be close to those who assist the sick night and day, and to priests who, in their pastoral concern

and fidelity to the Gospel, are trying to help and support everyone.

Blessed Virgin, illumine the minds of men and women engaged in scientific research, that they

may find effective solutions to overcome this virus.

Support national leaders, that with wisdom, solicitude and generosity they may come to the aid

of those lacking the basic necessities of life and may devise social and economic solutions

inspired by farsightedness and solidarity.

Mary Most Holy, stir our consciences, so that the enormous funds invested in developing and

stockpiling arms will instead be spent on promoting effective research on how to prevent similar

tragedies from occurring in the future.

Beloved Mother, help us realize that we are all members of one great family and to recognize the

bond that unites us, so that, in a spirit of fraternity and solidarity, we can help to alleviate

countless situations of poverty and need. Make us strong in faith, persevering in service, constant

in prayer.

Mary, Consolation of the afflicted, embrace all your children in distress and pray that God will

stretch out his all-powerful hand and free us from this terrible pandemic, so that life can serenely

resume its normal course.

To you, who shine on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope, do we entrust ourselves, O

Clement, O Loving, O Sweet Virgin Mary. Amen

The 15 Promises of the Holy Rosary

In the thirteenth century, Saint Dominic and Blessed Alan received the following

promises from Our Lady for all those who faithfully pray the Rosary:

1. To all those who shall pray my Rosary devoutly, I promise my special protection

and great graces.

2. Those who shall persevere in the recitation of my Rosary will receive some special

grace.

3. The Rosary will be a very powerful armor against hell; it will destroy vice, deliver

from sin and dispel heresy.

4. The rosary will make virtue and good works flourish, and will obtain for souls the

most abundant divine mercies. It will draw the hearts of men from the love of the

world and its vanities, and will lift them to the desire of eternal things. Oh, that souls

would sanctify themselves by this means.

5. Those who trust themselves to me through the Rosary will not perish.

6. Whoever recites my Rosary devoutly reflecting on the mysteries, shall never be

overwhelmed by misfortune. He will not experience the anger of God nor will he

perish by an unprovided death. The sinner will be converted; the just will persevere

in grace and merit eternal life.

7. Those truly devoted to my Rosary shall not die without the sacraments of the

Church.

8. Those who are faithful to recite my Rosary shall have during their life and at their

death the light of God and the plenitude of His graces and will share in the merits of

the blessed.

9. I will deliver promptly from purgatory souls devoted to my Rosary.

10. True children of my Rosary will enjoy great glory in heaven.

11. What you shall ask through my Rosary you shall obtain.

12. To those who propagate my Rosary I promise aid in all their necessities.

13. I have obtained from my Son that all the members of the Rosary Confraternity

shall have as their intercessors, in life and in death, the entire celestial court.

14. Those who recite my Rosary faithfully are my beloved children, the brothers and

sisters of Jesus Christ.

15 Devotion to my Rosary is a special sign of predestination.

Entrance Antiphon Acts 1:11

Men of Galilee, why gaze in wonder at the heavens?

This Jesus whom you saw ascending into heaven

will return as you saw him go, alleluia.

Penitential Act:

I confess to almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my

thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do, through my fault,

through my fault, through my most grievous fault; therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin, all

the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.

Amen.

The Gloria

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will. We praise you, we bless

you, we adore you, we glorify you, we give you thanks for your great glory, Lord God, heavenly

King, O God, almighty Father. Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son, Lord God, Lamb of God,

Son of the Father, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us; you take away the sins

of the world, receive our prayer; you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us.

For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, You alone are the Most High, Jesus

Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father

Collect

Gladden us with holy joys, almighty God, and make us rejoice with devout thanksgiving,

for the Ascension of Christ your Son is our exaltation, and, where the Head has gone before

in glory, the Body is called to follow in hope.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the

Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Readings and Commentaries

https://litedliturgybrisbane.weebly.com/sunday-readings-at-home.html/

Readings and Commentaries

Only one verse in the entire New Testament makes chronological reference to the ascension.

In Acts 1:3, Luke states that Jesus continued to appear to the disciples for forty days after his

resurrection. He goes on to present his account of Jesus being taken up into heaven.

In spite of this ancient witness, the first testimony to the celebration of “Ascension Thursday”

in Rome does not appear until around the year 500. Originally the fifty days of the Easter

season were celebrated as a single unit culminating in the feast of Pentecost. Gradually,

however, this unity broke down until the season was divided between the forty days leading

to Ascension, and the ten days from there to Pentecost. Pentecost itself became a separate

feast with an octave.

Since Vatican II we have largely recovered the initial unity of the Easter season. But not

quite, because the document governing the liturgical year still refers to the weekdays between

Ascension and Pentecost as a preparation for the coming of the Holy Spirit. In Australia

Luke’s chronology is not taken literally; the Ascension of the Lord is transferred to the

following Sunday.

A reading from the Acts of the

Apostles 1:1-11

In my earlier work, Theophilus, I dealt

with everything Jesus had done and taught

from the beginning until the day he gave

his instructions to the apostles he had

chosen through the Holy Spirit, and was

taken up to heaven. He had shown himself

alive to them after his Passion by many

demonstrations: for forty days he had

continued to appear to them and tell them

about the kingdom of God. When he had

been at table with them, he had told them

not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait there

for what the Father had promised. ‘It is’

he had said ‘what you have heard me

speak about: John baptised with water but

you, not many days from now, will be

baptised with the Holy Spirit.’

First Reading

Luke uses the ascension as the hinge

between his two works. His gospel

concludes with a brief reference to the

ascension, and Acts opens with a longer

account. This is what we hear first every

year.

The reading begins in a rhetorical style that

echoes that of the prologue to Luke’s

gospel. He follows the literary custom of

the time by beginning his work with a

dedication, to his presumed patron

Theophilus.

The passage as a whole serves as a

recapitulation of the last chapter of the

gospel, covering the period between Jesus’


Now having met together, they asked him,

‘Lord, has the time come? Are you going

to restore the kingdom to Israel?’ He

replied, ‘It is not for you to know times or

dates that the Father has decided by his

own authority, but you will receive power

when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and

then you will be my witnesses not only in

Jerusalem but throughout Judaea and

Samaria, and indeed to the ends of the

earth.’

As he said this he was lifted up while they

looked on, and a cloud took him from their

sight. They were still staring into the sky

when suddenly two men in white were

standing near them and they said, ‘Why

are you men from Galilee standing here

looking into the sky? Jesus who has been

taken up from you into heaven, this same

Jesus will come back in the same way as

you have seen him go there.’

The Word of the Lord

resurrection and ascension. But the

description of the ascension is more

extended.

The reader will need to do justice to the

formality of the first part of the reading. It

calls for a degree of gravity; the writer is

establishing his credentials. The passage

then becomes a narrative of events that are

described with sufficient detail for listeners

to be able to enter imaginatively into the

action. As moderns, they may find

themselves mentally dissenting from the

ancient cosmology that has Jesus ascending

into the sky, but this is not the reader’s

concern.

Further on there is dialogue and direct

speech. These different elements provide

readers with the opportunity to exercise

their skills and deliver an engaging

proclamation of the text.

Responsorial

Psalm Ps 46:2−3, 6−9

God mounts his throne to shouts

of joy: a blare of trumpets for the

Lord.

All peoples, clap your hands,

cry to God with shouts of joy!

For the Lord, the Most High, we must

fear,

great king over all the earth. R.

God goes up with shouts of joy;

the Lord goes up with trumpet blast.

Sing praise for God, sing praise,

sing praise to our king, sing praise. R.

God is king of all the earth.

Sing praise with all your skill.

God is king over the nations;

God reigns on his holy throne. R.

Responsorial Psalm

Psalm 46/47 is one of a group of psalms

called “enthronement psalms” because

they appear to be connected with

festivals celebrating divine kingship.

Clearly this psalm is inspired by an

especially festive celebration. There is

reference to singing, clapping, blaring

trumpets, royal progress, and perhaps

some ritual of enthronement. It is full

of exuberance.

Readers and congregation alike may

find it difficult to enter spontaneously

into this excess of enthusiasm, but the

text deserves to be proclaimed in an

energetic spirit of praise. The response

is taken from within the psalm itself.

How God’s claim of sovereignty over

his people related to the role of earthly

kings in Israel is addressed elsewhere

in the Old Testament.

A reading from the letter of St Paul

to the Ephesians 1:17–23

May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the

Father of glory, give you a spirit of

wisdom and perception of what is

revealed, to bring you to full knowledge of

him. May he enlighten the eyes of your

mind so that you can see what hope his call

holds for you, what rich glories he has

promised the saints will inherit and how

infinitely great is the power that he has

exercised for us believers. This you can

tell from the strength of his power at work

in Christ, when he used it to raise him from

the dead and to make him sit at his right

hand, in heaven, far above every

Sovereignty, Authority, Power, or

Domination, or any other name that can be

named, not only in this age, but also in the

age to come. He has put all things under

his feet, and made him as the ruler of

everything, the head of the Church; which

is his body, the fullness of him who fills

the whole creation.

The Word of the Lord

Second Reading

The second reading for Ascension changes

from year to year. Twice it is from the

letter to the Ephesians, once from

Hebrews. Each text offers a theological

reflection on the meaning of the feast.

This year’s reading is both a beautiful

prayer and a confession of faith, taken

from the first chapter of Ephesians. Most

of this chapter is devoted to prayer; we

hear the final part.

This begins with a wish that the Ephesians

will grasp how glorious is the destiny that

lies in store for them as Christians. It

grounds this prayer in the power of God

who raised Jesus from the dead and

established him as head of the Church and

ruler of creation. The author of the letter

offers us a grand vision that encompasses

the whole of reality: everything in heaven

and on earth is filled with the fullness of

the risen Lord.

Beautiful as it is, the text is not without its

challenges for the reader. The sentences

are long, the content is theologically

weighty, and the tone is elevated. The

whole passage will repay close scrutiny.

Readers will need to distinguish between

the core assertion of each sentence and the

thoughts that flow from this. Only then can

they be sure of enabling the congregation

to hear and understand the message. This

is not a text to be rushed through, but one

we might well pray sincerely for one

another.

A reading from the holy Gospel according

to Matthew 28:16–20

The eleven disciples set out for Galilee, to

the mountain where Jesus had arranged to

meet them. When they saw him they fell

down before him, though some hesitated.

Jesus came up and spoke to them. He said,

‘All authority in heaven and on earth has

been given to me. Go, therefore, make

disciples of all the nations; baptise them in

the name of the Father and of the Son and

of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to

observe all the commands I gave you. And

know that I am with you always; yes, to the

end of time.’

The Gospel of the Lord

Gospel

The gospel text consists of the last five

verses of Matthew’s gospel. It does

not contain a description of the

ascension, though the commission

Jesus gives the Eleven implies his

imminent departure. This is the

paradox: Jesus is to become absent

even as he promises his disciples to be

“with you always; yes, to the end of

time”.

As is true of many of the stories of

Jesus’ appearances after his

resurrection, there is a tantalising

degree of obscurity and ambiguity.

Why did Jesus direct them to Galilee

(28:10)? On what mountain are they

meeting and what significance might

this have? Why were some overcome

with awe while others hesitated?

For all this uncertainty, Jesus’

commission to the Eleven is crystal

clear. They are sent on a universal

mission, with a mandate to teach and

to baptise. The Trinitarian formula is

exceptional in the New Testament; its

inclusion here may reflect baptismal

practice in Matthew’s own

community. The whole gospel

concludes as it began: with the

absolute assurance of the enduring

presence of Emmanuel, God with us.

The scriptural quotations are taken from the Jerusalem Bible, published and copyright 1966, 1967 and 1968 by Darton Longman and Todd Ltd and

Doubleday & Co Inc, and used by permission of the publishers. The English translation of the Psalm Responses, the Alleluia and Gospel Verses, and

the Lenten Gospel Acclamations, and the Titles, Summaries, and Conclusion of the Readings, from the Lectionary for Mass © 1997, 1981, 1968,

International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. The prayers are from the English Translation of the Roman Missal © 2010

International Committee on English in the Liturgy Inc. (ICEL). All rights reserved.



The Creed:

I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only

Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under

Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried; he descended into hell; on the third day he

rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the

Father almighty; from there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy

Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection

of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.

The Universal Prayer

Sunday 24th May 2020

Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord My sisters and brothers,

our salvation history continues to pass from one generation to the next by the telling of the

story of Jesus and his people. On this World Communication Sunday, we honour how

memory and storytelling in the family is integral to the spread of the Good News.

1. We pray for Pope Francis: may he continue to give spiritual, moral and merciful leadership,

receive our respect and affection, and be kept in good health in these difficult times.

Lord, hear us. Lord, hear our prayer

2. We pray for the diocese of Maitland - Newcastle: may priests and deacons share the ‘balm

of mercy’, the religious ‘wake up the world’ with compassion, and the lay faithful – women,

men and children – ‘dare to dream’ of a Church which truly welcomes all.


3. We pray for this week of Prayer for Christian Unity be marked by sincere prayer and good

works as we seek that unity of faith and love, which is the will of Christ.


4. We pray for the Church, the Body of Christ, value the opportunities within our families and

beyond, by which was can pass on, from one generation to the next, the grace, truth and peace

of Jesus Christ.


5. We pray for those places which, in the distress of poverty and hunger, now face the presence

of the Covid-19 pandemic, not be forgotten by the world, but receive the urgent help which

they ned. Lord, hear us. Lord, hear our prayer

6. We pray for Australia and her people: may the prayerful support of Mary, Help of Christians,

bring wisdom to our leaders, and integrity to all citizens, guiding everyone in the ways of

justice and love.


7. May our departed parishioners, family members and friends find their peace in the

everlasting mercy and joy of the Ascended Christ. We pray for: Barbara Pawlicki, John

Watkin, Michelle Wann and Fay Bagnal.


Celebrant: Father, we sing your praises for you have taken your Son Jesus

into your glory and given to him a Name above all names. May we reverence him,

who lives and reigns forever and ever.

Spiritual Communion Prayer: My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love You above all

things, and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive You

sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already

there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.

Prayer after Communion

Almighty ever-living God,

who allow those on earth to celebrate divine mysteries,

grant, we pray,

that Christian hope may draw us onward

to where our nature is united with you.

Through Christ our Lord.

Prayer to St Michael the Archangel.

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in the day of battle. Be our safeguard

against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly

pray; and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into

hell Satan and all the evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin

of souls. Amen.

For Health Carers Gracious God, give skill, sympathy and resilience to all who are caring for the sick, and

your wisdom to those searching for a cure. Strengthen them with your Spirit, that through

their work many will be restored to health; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

For ill or isolated

O God, help me to trust you, help me to know that you are with me, help me to believe that

nothing can separate me from your love revealed in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Merciful God, we entrust to your tender care those who are ill or in pain, knowing that

whenever danger threatens your everlasting arms are there to hold them safe. Comfort and

heal them, and restore them to health and strength;

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For Us We are not people of fear:

we are people of courage.

We are not people who protect our own safety: we are people who protect our neighbours’

safety.

We are not people of greed: we are people of generosity.

We are your people God, giving and loving, wherever we are, whatever it costs

For as long as it takes wherever you call us.

Amen.

Week of Prayer of Christian Unity They showed us unusual kindness

(Act 28:2) Sunday 24th May to Saturday 31st May 2020

BIBLICAL REFLECTIONS AND PRAYE R S FOR THE EIGHT

DAYS DAY 1

Reconciliation: Throwing the cargo overboard

Acts 27:18-19,21

“We were being pounded by the storm so violently that on the next day they began to throw the

cargo overboard and on

the third day with their own hands they threw the ship’s tackle overboard… Since they had

been without food for a long

time, Paul then stood up among them and said, ‘Men, you should have listened to me and not

have set sail from Crete

and thereby avoided this damage and loss’.”

Psalm 85

Luke 18:9-14

Reflection

As Christians from different Churches and Traditions, we have unfortunately, over the

centuries, accumulated abundant

baggage consisting of mutual distrust, bitterness and suspicion. We thank the Lord for the birth

and the growth of the

ecumenical movement over the past century. Our encounter with Christians from other

traditions and our common

prayer for Christian unity encourage us to seek mutual forgiveness, reconciliation and

acceptance. We must not allow

the baggage of our past to hinder us from drawing closer to one another. It is the Lord’s will

that we let go, in order to

let God!

Questions and Discussion

What “baggage” might we be carrying that is holding back progress in our life in faith,

participation in the church,

or relationships with people of other faiths? Think personal, local and denominational.

When, if ever, is it helpful to say: “I told you so”?

To what voices do you listen for advice?

Prayer

Forgiving God,

set us free from the painful memories of the past,

that wound our shared Christian life.

Lead us to reconciliation

so that, through the Holy Spirit we may overcome

hatred with love,

anger with gentleness,

and suspicion with trust.

We ask this in the name of your beloved Son, our brother Jesus. Amen.

DAY 2

Enlightenment: Seeking and showing forth Christ’s light

Acts 27:20

“When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest raged, all hope of

our being saved was at

last abandoned.”

Psalm 119:105-110

Mark 4:35-41

Reflection

Christ is our light and our guide. Without the light and guidance of Christ, we become

disorientated. When Christians

lose sight of Christ, they grow fearful and divided from one another. Moreover many people of

good will outside the

Church are unable to see the light of Christ because in our Christian division we reflect Christ’s

light less clearly or, at

times, block it out completely. As we seek the light of Christ, we are drawn closer to one

another, and so mirror this

light more clearly, becoming truly a sign of Christ, the light of the world.


How important is hope in your life? How important is hope for Christians? For humanity?

Sun/moon/stars/seasons … What things give shape, rhythm and orientation to your life?

What possible storms

disrupt this? Think of some ‘real life’ examples.

In what ways might your faith guide, sustain and restore in these stormy times? Think of

some ‘real life’

examples.

The boat is a traditional symbol for the church. What storms are the church battling right

now? Have we lost sight

of Christ in these storms?

Prayer

God, your word is a light to our steps

and without you we are lost and disorientated.

Enlighten us so that, through your word, we may walk your path.

May our churches crave your guiding, consoling and transforming presence.

Give us the honesty we need to recognize

when we make it difficult for others to see your light,

and the grace we need to share your light with others.

We ask this in the name of your Son,

who calls us, his followers, to be light to the world. Amen.

DAY 3

Hope: Paul’s message

Acts 27:22,34

“I urge you now to keep up your courage, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only

of the ship… none of you

will lose a hair from your heads…”

Psalm 27

Matthew 11:28-30

Reflection

As Christians belonging to churches and traditions that are not fully reconciled to one another,

we are often discouraged

by the lack of progress towards visible unity. Indeed, some have given up all hope and see this

unity as an unattainable

ideal. Others do not even see unity as a necessary part of their Christian faith. As we pray for

this gift of visible unity,

let us do so with steadfast faith, enduring patience and expectant hope, trusting in God’s loving

providence. Unity is the

Lord’s prayer for the Church and he is accompanying us on this journey. We will not be lost.


What divided the people on board the ship with Paul? What were the unifying factors?

What factors continue to divide us in the church? What things do we hold in common? How

can we ease the

divisions and cultivate the common ground?

In what other ecumenical events/actions/gatherings do you participate besides the Week of

Prayer for Christian

Unity e.g. World Day of Prayer; Palm Sunday Peace Rally; Easter Dawn Service? What do you

learn or

contribute? How important are these kind of things?

Prayer

God of mercy,

lost and disheartened, we turn to you.

Instill in us your gift of hope.

May our churches hope and strive for the unity

for which your Son prayed on the eve of his passion.

We ask this through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit

for ever and ever. Amen.

DAY 4

Trust: Do not be afraid, believe

Acts 27:23-26

“For the last night there stood by me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I

worship, and he said, ‘Do not

be afraid, Paul; you must stand before the emperor; and indeed, God has granted safety to all

those who are sailing with

you.’ So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have

been told. But we will have

to run aground on some island.”

Psalm 56

Luke 12:22-34

Reflection

In the midst of the tempest Paul’s encouragement and hope contradicted the fear and despair of

his fellow travellers.

Our common call to be disciples of Jesus Christ entails being a sign of contradiction. In a world

riven with anxieties, we

are called to stand as witnesses to hope by placing our trust in God’s loving providence.

Christian experience shows us

that God writes straight on crooked lines, and we know, against all odds, we will not drown or

be lost, because God’s

steadfast love endures forever.


Paul’s words and conviction encourage those around him. Words are powerful and can

change things. Discuss

some examples of this (Think both historical and contemporary).

Do you have a saying, proverb or mantra that inspires you or helps you in difficult times?

Share among the group.

A contra-diction is a word of difference or a word against. Discuss the ideas of speaking

words that encourage

others, of having the courage to offer a different perspective, and of speaking out against

untruth and injustice.

How are Christians signs of contradiction in the world?

Prayer

Almighty God,

our personal suffering leads us to cry out in pain

and we shrink in fear when we experience sickness,

anxiety or the death of loved ones.

Teach us to trust you, knowing that you bring good into all things.

May the churches we belong to be signs of your providential care.

Make us true disciples of your Son

who taught us to listen to your word

and to serve one another.

In confidence we ask this in the name of your Son,

and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

DAY 5

Strength: Breaking bread for the journey

Acts 27:33-36

“Just before daybreak, Paul urged all of them to take some food, saying, ‘Today is the

fourteenth day that you have

been in suspense and remaining without food, having eaten nothing. Therefore I urge you to

take some food, for it will

help you survive; for none of you will lose a hair from your heads.’ After he had said this, he

took bread; and giving

thanks to God in the presence of all, he broke it and began to eat. Then all of them were

encouraged and took food for

themselves.”

Psalm 77

Mark 6:30-44

Reflection

Paul’s invitation to eat is an exhortation to those in the boat to strengthen themselves for what

lies ahead. This taking of

bread marks a change of attitude, as those in the boat move from despair to courage. In a

similar way the Eucharist or

Lord’s Supper provides us with food for the journey and re-orientates us to life in God. We are

made strong. The

breaking of the bread – at the core of Christian community life and worship – builds us up as

we commit ourselves to

Christian service. We long for the day when all Christians will be able to share at the same table

of the Lord’s Supper

and draw strength from one bread and one cup.


Do you think the words of Acts 27 verse 35 are deliberately Eucharistic? Why do you think

the author chose to

write them this way?

What aspects of the Eucharist/Mass/Holy Communion give you strength to be a disciple of

Jesus? If you belong

to a tradition that does not celebrate this sacrament, in what ritual or practise of your faith

community do you

share that gives you strength?

What prevents all Christians from being able to share at the same table of the Lord’s Supper

now?

Prayer

Loving God,

your Son Jesus Christ broke bread

and shared the cup with his friends on the eve of his passion.

May we grow together in closer communion.

Following the example of Paul and the early Christians,

give us strength to build bridges of compassion, solidarity and harmony.

In the power of the Holy Spirit,

we ask this in the name of your Son,

who gives his life that we might live. Amen.

DAY 6

Hospitality: Show unusual kindness

Acts 28:1-2, 7

“After we had reached safety, we then learned that the island was called Malta. The natives

showed us unusual

kindness. Since it had begun to rain and was cold, they kindled a fire and welcomed all of us

round it… Now in the

neighbourhood of that place were lands belonging to the leading man of the island, named

Publius, who received us and

entertained us hospitably for three days.”

Psalm 46

Luke 14:12-24

Reflection

After the traumas and conflicts of the storm at sea, the practical care offered by the islanders is

experienced as an

unusual kindness by those washed up on the shores. Such kindness demonstrates our common

humanity. The Gospel

teaches us that when we care for those in distress we are showing love to Christ himself (cf.

Matthew 25:40).

Furthermore, when we show loving kindness to the weak and dispossessed we are attuning our

hearts to the heart of

God in which the poor have a special place. Welcoming outsiders, whether they be people of

other cultures or beliefs,

immigrants or refugees, is both to love Christ himself, and to love as God loves. As Christians,

we are called to step out

in faith and reach out with God’s all-embracing love, even to those we find difficult to love.


The Greek word translated ‘natives’ (or in some versions, ‘foreigners’) is the word from

which we get our

‘barbarians’. Why is it that so often we regard people of different cultures as suspicious or even

inferior?

Consider the phrase “unusual kindness”. What is usual kindness? How does Jesus encourage

us to go beyond

this? See Luke 6: 27-36

In what ways have you experienced the “unusual kindness” or hospitality of another culture?

How in your culture

do you show unusual kindness? How do we do so as Christians?

This year the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity overlaps with the Week of Prayer for

Reconciliation in

Australia. What are the main issues involved in the process of justice and reconciliation for

Indigenous Australians? How can we ease the tensions between first, second and third peoples

of our nation?

Prayer

God of the orphan, the widow and the stranger,

instill in our hearts a deep sense of hospitality.

Open our eyes and hearts

when you ask us to feed you, to clothe you and to visit you.

May our churches participate

in the ending of hunger, thirst and isolation,

and in overcoming barriers that prevent the welcome of all people.

We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus,

who is present in the least of our sisters and brothers. Amen.

DAY 7

Conversion: Changing our hearts and minds

Acts 28:3-6

“Paul had gathered a bundle of brushwood and was putting it on the fire, when a viper, driven

out by the heat, fastened

itself on his hand. When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one

another, ‘This man must

be a murderer; though he has escaped from the sea, justice has not allowed him to live.’ He,

however, shook off the

creature into the fire and suffered no harm. They were expecting him to swell up or drop dead,

but after they had waited

a long time and saw that nothing unusual had happened to him, they changed their minds and

began to say that he was a

god.”

Psalm 119:137-144

Matthew 18:1-6

Reflection

The locals realized that their judgment of Paul as a murderer was wrong, so they changed their

minds. The

extraordinary event with the viper enables the islanders to see things in a new way, a way that

might prepare them to

hear the message of Christ through Paul. In our search for Christian unity and reconciliation we

are often challenged to

rethink how we perceive other traditions and cultures. This demands an ongoing conversion to

Christ in which the

churches learn to overcome their perception of the other as a threat. As a result, our pejorative

views of others will be

cast away, and we will be drawn closer to unity.


First impressions are important, but they can be misleading. When have you had the

experience of changing your

attitude towards another person after getting to know them better?

Have you ever been misjudged by others? How did that make you feel?

Is it helpful sometimes to try and see ourselves as others see us?

Why do we so often see difference as a threat rather than an opportunity?

Prayer

Almighty God,

we turn to you with repentant hearts.

In our sincere quest for your truth,

purify us from our unjust opinions of others

and lead the churches to grow in communion.

Help us let go of our fears,

and so better understand each other and the stranger in our midst.

We ask this in the name of the Just One,

your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

DAY 8

Generosity: Receiving and giving

Acts 28:8-10

“The father of Publius lay sick in bed with fever and dysentery. Paul visited him and cured him

by

praying and putting his hands on him. After this happened, the rest of the people on the island

who

had diseases also came and were cured. They bestowed many honours on us, and when we were

about to sail, they put on board all the provisions we needed”.

Psalm 103:1-5

Matthew 10:7-8

Reflection

This story is full of giving and receiving: Paul received unusual kindness from the islanders;

Paul

gives healing to the father of Publius and others; having lost everything in the storm, the 276

receive

abundant provisions as they set sail. As Christians we are called to unusual kindness. But in

order to

give we must first learn to receive – from Christ and from others. More often than we realize,

we

are recipients of acts of kindness from people who are different from us. These acts also point

towards the generosity and healing of our Lord. We who have been healed by the Lord are

responsible for passing on that which we have received.


When has the saying: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” held true in your life?

So-called “gifts” take many forms: material, spiritual, emotional, physical. Name some of

those gifts in yourself, in others, in your congregation or faith community.

What inspires or prompts you to acts of kindness and generosity?

Entering into relationships, though at times risky, opens doors to the giving and receiving of

gifts. What gifts do Christians of different traditions, cultures and backgrounds have to share

with one another? With the world?

Prayer

God, giver of life,

we thank you for the gift of your

compassionate love which

soothes and strengthens us.

We pray that our churches

may be always open to receive your gifts from one another.

Grant us a spirit of generosity to all

as we journey together in the path of Christian unity.

We ask this in the name of your Son,

who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

diocese of maitland-newcastle we acknowledge …...resume public worship,” they wrote. “there is...

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