Category Archives: Article

Stephen the first Christian martyr gives us a wonderful example of how to follow Jesus is his closeness to God and his willingness to forgive. Fr Richard reflects on today’s readings from Mass. Readings for Tuesday of the third week of Easter can be found here. Think of some of the greatest painters from theContinue reading “Follow the master”

Sometimes our efforts in this life run into difficulties or opposition, and this can leave us feeling discouraged. Stephen, however, gives an example of focussing on the eternal not the transient. Fr Richard reflects on today’s readings from Mass. Readings for Monday of the third week of Easter can be found here. If it hasn’tContinue reading “Eternal focus”

Today’s Mass readings show the difference which is made to people when they encounter and spend time with the risen Jesus. Fr Richard reflects on what this means for us. Readings for Easter Saturday can be found here. Have you ever noticed a visible difference in someone after they’ve been somewhere or had some experience?Continue reading “The power of encounter”

Sometimes places can have associations of failure and pain. The story of Simon Peter in today’s Gospel shows how the risen Jesus can transform these places into ones of hope and renewal. Readings for Easter Friday can be found here. In 2011 Queen Elizabeth II paid a state visit to Ireland, the first by aContinue reading “A place transformed”

Life can be confusing and frightening. The risen Jesus gently leads us to understanding, peace and faith, as he did with the first disciples. Fr Richard reflects on today’s readings from Mass. Readings for Easter Thursday can be found here. Have you ever woken up and wondered where you are? Perhaps it’s the first nightContinue reading “Confused no longer”

Like the first disciples, the gift of the Holy Spirit and encountering Jesus in the Eucharist enable us to put our faith into action. Fr Richard reflects on today’s readings from Mass. Readings for Easter Wednesday can be found here. Have you ever thought about doing some exercise but never actually got round to it?Continue reading “Faith in action”

When someone remembers our name we feel loved, valued and empowered. This is is what Jesus does with Mary Magdalene, and all of us. Fr Richard reflects on today’s readings from Mass. Readings for Easter Tuesday can be found here. Some people have a knack for remembering names – they are introduced to a personContinue reading “Known by name”

The Easter story is urgent news for the world that we all have a duty to pass on. Fr Richard reflects on today’s readings from Mass. Readings for Easter Monday can be found here. What is the most urgent news you have ever had to deliver? Does it compare to Pheidippides of Ancient Greek legend?Continue reading “Urgent news!”

The Cross is the means by which God heals the broken relationship between himself and humanity, borne out of love. Here is Fr Richard’s homily for today’s Good Friday Liturgy. Readings for the Liturgy can be found here. Have you ever fallen out with someone that you care about? Ever had an argument, a row,Continue reading “The healing power of the Cross”

Our world loves to erects barriers and boundaries between peoples, nations and groups. God’s vision for the world is far more inclusive – Fr Richard reflects on today’s readings from mass. Readings for Saturday of the 5th week of Lent can be found here. Milton Keynes, Harlow, Stevenage, Skelmersdale. These are just a few ofContinue reading “God’s inclusive vision”