SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT YEAR B
24th/25th February 2018


Dear Parishioner

Today's first reading from the book of Genesis is a preview of the Easter Vigil: the story of Abraham and Isaac is the second of the Old Testament readings assigned for the night watch of Jesus' resurrection.

In the Responsorial Psalm one can hear the relieved Abraham. Even in the midst of his anguish and suffering, at a time when his faith was tested to the limit, the psalmist continues to trust in the Lord. The psalmist recommits himself to the service of the God who has saved him and will fulfil his 'vow': his public offering of thanksgiving for the saving work of God in his life.

The second reading from Paul's letter to the Romans is his great treatise on baptism. It is a hymn celebrating the great love of God who 'did not spare his own Son, but gave him up to benefit us all'.

Today's gospel is Mark's account of the transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus often went into the hills to pray. He preached his most famous sermon from a hilltop. He was transfigured on Mount Tabor, died on Mount Calvary, and ascended to heaven from Mount Olivet. It seems that he loved hills and mountains. Why was this? Was it because he grew up among the hills of Galilee? Or was it because heights enlarge our vision and cause our spirit to soar? Lift us up, strong Son of God, that we may see further. Strengthen our faith that we may see beyond the horizon. And when the valley closes us in, help us to remember the view from the hilltop.

If you are like me already you have failed in your Lenten resolutions. Don't worry but start again and pray for perseverance as we look forward to the Easter celebrations.

Ever remember you in my prayers and God bless,

Deacon Kevin.

SEND, O LORD: HOLY APOSTLES INTO YOUR CHURCH


Notices:

Please remember to pray for:

Daily for the sick clergy of our Diocese

The sick and housebound

Those who have recently died: Thérèse Alam

Years Mind:
Monday: Fr Jules van Meenen, Fr Clifford Beecroft
Tuesday: Fr David Chapman
Wednesday: Fr John Wall
Sunday: Mgr Patrick O'Donnell, Fr Brian Galvin, Fr Francis Hastings


Next Sunday - THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT (B)

First Reading: Exodus 20:1-17
The Law was given through Moses.

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:22-25
Here we are preaching a crucified Christ, an obstacle to men, but to those who are called, the wisdom of God.

Gospel: John 2:13-25
Destroy this sanctuary, and raise it up.


NEXT WEEK

THE BILLERICAY PADRE PIO PRAYER GROUP invite you to a Day of Devotion to the Divine Mercy at the former Diocesan House of Prayer, now known as Walsingham House at Abbotswick, Navestock Side, near Brentwood, CM14 5SH, on Mercy Sunday, 8th April 2018. Arrival from 10.30 am for 11 am start. Confession available. Mass 3.30pm. Tea and coffee will be available but please bring a packed lunch. Ring Claire Wallis 01277 658783 for more information. ALL ARE WELCOME.