Gospel Reflection - Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

This Sunday’s Gospel is a timely one. Jesus was being criticised by the Pharisees for not following the rules and rituals that were followed by Jewish people around cleanliness at the time. Jesus responded to the Pharisees by pointing out that they had forgotten the meaning behind the rules, and that it is not just rituals that kept people clean and holy, but their words and actions towards others.  At this time, where we all have different feelings and opinions about the rules we are currently living under, it is important to remember the purpose behind these rules: to keep us safe, to keep us healthy, to protect ourselves and others. 

It is easy to get caught up in feelings of angst, frustration and helplessness that we can’t do more to ease the suffering of others in our community, or we may long for our ‘old life’ back with all our usual freedoms. We can take heart though, that by following the rules and staying at home, we are doing our part to help, and through this we show others that we are followers of Jesus. By putting the interests of our community first, in demonstrating care and consideration of others, we show the values and beliefs that are at the heart of our faith.  

We keep in our prayers this week, all those in our community who have been directly impacted by COVID-19. We also pray for all front line workers, particularly those in the health care sector, that God protects and watches over them, as they do their important work.

Confirmation

A reminder to parents of our Confirmation candidates to please email your commitment form through if you were unable to attend a commitment Mass before lockdown commenced.

Laura Matchett