Today’s Readings – Sunday of Week 12 of Ordinary Time (Year A)

Commentary on Jeremiah 20:10-13; Romans 5:12-15; Matthew 10:26-33

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells the Twelve:

...have no fear...


In times of uncertainty about the future it is not surprising that many show signs of fear and anxiety. The words of Jesus may sound good, but do they give any real reassurance in times of trouble?

Much of the fear and anxiety of people today is about their material security, even when times are good. Perhaps times are good now, but will they last? The Gospel is not terribly concerned with that. In the ideal Christian community, material security will not be a major problem because believers will take care of each other and share their resources with those in need. The fact that such sharing communities are not very common makes one wonder … Continue

Yesterday’s Readings – The Irish Martyrs

Note: Today we also celebrate the memorial to Blessed Francisco Pacheco and Companions martyred in Japan.*

The celebration of the Irish Martyrs includes hundreds who are remembered for giving their lives for the Catholic faith in Ireland between the years 1537 and 1714. A huge number o … Continue