THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH
INTRODUCTION:
We all belong to a family. We grew up in a family and knew the people related to us. We also know the difficulties that families face. The misunderstandings, and trouble between parents and children and other family members. Jesus also belonged to a family. Joseph the CarpenterTHE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH, Mary and Jesus are all called the Holy Family of Nazareth. We know that there were difficulties even in the Holy Family, but we can be sure that Mary and Joseph could sort out possible misunderstandings with love. Are we able to do that as well?
GOSPEL: LUKE 2: 22-40
When the days were completed for their purification
according to the law of Moses, They took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, He took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted —and you yourself a sword will pierce— so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.
Christmas Cake Winner drawn by Fr Marek was Connie De Freitas of our parish.
BAPTISMS 31-12-2023
CONGRATULATIONS
ON YOUR
BAPTISM
Lilitha Vundla
Praisegod Dweku
Phawulothando Gida.
PARISH OFFICE
Will reopen on 09 January. For emergencies, please get in touch with Fr Marek directly.
POPE’S PRAYER INTENTION FOR DECEMBER:
FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
We pray that people living with disabilities may be at the centre of attention in society and that institutions may offer inclusive programs which value their active participation.
SICK & ELDERLY
Please pray for the sick & elderly of the parish, family & friends especially:
Fr John–Allen Green OFM, Nokuthula Kubheka, Penny Powell, Jean Smith, Dolly Bimbrish, Simon Zulu, Alvin Govender, Siva Naidoo, Mavis Makhubo, Fidelma Hanlon, Noel Hoffman, Norman Brown, Anabela De Pontes and Benvinda Da Costa.
THANK YOU
To all those who helped in any way to make the Christmas celebrations so blessed and holy.
