The little mustard seed in today's gospel has a big reputation. Jesus reminds us that just as the large mustard tree has tiny beginnings, so too the mighty, life-giving...
john oconnor
friendship
With yesterday's gospel highlighting the new family of those living in friendship with Jesus, today's Feast of St. James the apostle reminds us that Jesus spent most of...
family & friends
In today's gospel Jesus really blurs any clear distinction between family and friends when he asks "who is my mother? Who are my brothers?" We often have unrealistic...
back to school
In New Zealand this week the third of the four school terms begins. Prayers here for a healthy and happy term for all staff and students. Prayer is a regular part of...
high ideals
If you took all the events recorded in the gospels and allocated hours to them (eg. wedding feast at Cana one day, Sermon on the Mount half a day, Jesus' encounter with...
here’s hoping
While some people might compulsively look on the bright side of any situation, such power of positive thinking is not the same as Christian hope. Positive thinking can...
Alone? Not!
Both of my grandfathers were farmers, beginning their careers in the days when farmers followed teams of Clydesdale horses yoked together pulling ploughs across South...
ultimate strength
Don't miss this encouragement in the heart of the second reading of today's liturgy. "My grace is enough for you: my power is at its best in weakness"Â 1 Cor 12 Our...
pray for priests
Each month Pope Francis invites the people of the world to join him in praying for a particular intention presenting a brief video to extend his invitation. This month,...
hope
Last night our Christchurch seminarians gathered for dinner with a group of seminarians from the United States who are visiting New Zealand accompanying one of their...
Latest Posts
the foundation
If prayer is to grow into relationship rather than remain as obligation it needs to reflect and engage the reality of our lives
good news
But more often the words of this prayer give me direction and hope in the midst of daily routines and demands.
be the first
If we follow Christ we experience freedom. With Christ we are freed from the trap of following every fad, fashion, celebrity or opinion.
say the word
Put simply, the way I speak to me about me has the power to make or break my day.
advent adventure
every day I am being created – sometimes a tender embrace, sometimes some sudden and shocking realignments