25 Nov
Fri
34th Week in Ordinary Time
St Catharine of Alexandria, virgin & martyr
Rev. 20:1-4,11-21:2
Ps. 84(83):3,4,5-6a,8a
Lk. 21:29:33
(Ps Wk II)
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Jesus' parable in today's Gospel passage teaches doctrine which Jesus elsewhere sums up as "reading the signs of the times" (cf. Matthew 16:2-3 and 24:3-31) In fact Matthew's chapter 24 deals entirely with this teaching. In convoking Vatican Council II Pope John XXIII used this phrase as one of the motivations for calling the Council. As a consequence the phrase was instrumental in suggesting a renewal of theological method, a new way of doing theology. We must of course continue to read the Bible for inspiration, since it is the word of God, but Jesus taught us to look at the world, society, humanity. The Alleluia verse today, in different words repeats the call: "Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand." When St. Ignatius had his great spiritual experience in which he came to a greater understanding of the Trinity, he was not in a Church; he was sitting on a river bank looking down at the river itself. This is a great symbol. To deepen our understanding of our faith we must raise our eyes up to heaven and at the same time look down at the world.



Holy Spirit, give us the wisdom to be able to read the signs of the times and the face of the world and so be more attentive to Your enlightenment.


DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That the countries which take in a great number of displaced persons and refugees may find support for their efforts which show solidarity.
Elaboration

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