Saturday 1 May, 2023 | Fourth Week of Easter | St Joseph the Worker |Readings: 1 Acts 11:1-18; Psalm 41(42):2-3,42:3-4:1-4,8-9,13-14,17-18; John 10:11-180 (You can find these in full on the Universalis website – Click here)
“We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us.” These are words from the first speech in parliament of the MP, Jo Cox who was murdered in 2016. Inspired by these words, the Jo Cox Foundation aims to makes meaningful change on issues she was passionate about. Like her, they believe that a kinder, fairer and more connected world is possible. The Foundation works for change by collaborating with others and bringing people together to achieve more than we can alone.
In the gospel reading today, Jesus describes himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep, the one who gathers his sheep into the fold. He is dependable and trustworthy, brave and loving. “There will be only one flock,” he said, “and one shepherd.” We are, of course, conscious of the many divisions which exist within the Church, and it is our calling to seek that unity which Christ declared and for which he himself prayed, ‘That we may be one as he and the Father are one.’ Whilst we acknowledge the separations, we can also rejoice in all that we have in common. We can continue to collaborate on issues that are important so that by working together we can bring meaningful change to the world, and nurture relationships built on all that we have in common.
Today, we also celebrate the memorial of St Joseph the Worker, as we recognise the dignity of human beings which come from participating in God’s creativity through being able to work. Through work we can contribute to society, for each of us has something important to offer. However, we are not cogs in the wheel but human beings, created and valued by God, acknowledging our need for God and one another, and everyone has the right to be treated justly and with dignity. So today we pray for all church leaders that they may work together for the unity of God’s Church; for governments and leaders that they may seek fruitful collaboration for peace and justice in the world; all for all employers that they may treat their workers with dignity and respect.
MAKING CONNECTIONS
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MINISTRY AREA MASS
Mass today (Monday 1 May, 2023) is celebrated at St Mary’s Church, Butetown at 10am | If you would like to send a prayer request then click on the ‘REQUEST PRAYER’ Button. You can discover more about Worship across the Ministry Area on our Worship page
South Cardiff Ministry Area 