Brothers and Sisters, our Lenten caravan is lumbering on. We are like the “mixed multitude” (Ex 12:38) that left Egypt with the Chosen People. We are on our way to Easter, all intent, to use St Paul’s phrases, to be “judged righteous and at peace with God”. Continue reading

“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife.”

Isn’t it good, isn’t it poignant, that our last public Mass for whatever length of time it proves to be coincides with the feast of St Joseph? And should have that call “not to be afraid” at its heart?
Joseph, son of David, was given by God, by the Father, to Mary and Jesus. He was given to be a sacrament, an efficacious sign, of the Father’s own care for the Virgin Mother, and her son, the Word made flesh. Catholic instinct then takes the further step: as Mary and Jesus were entrusted to Joseph, so is the Church throughout her history. “Just as St Joseph took loving care of Mary and gladly dedicated himself to Jesus Christ’s upbringing, he likewise watches over and protects Christ’s Mystical Body, of which the Virgin Mary is the exemplar and model” (St John Paul II, Redemptoris Custos 1). Continue reading

Bishop Hugh Gilbert at St Joseph’s Church, Aberdeen

“If I should walk in the valley of darkness, no evil would I fear. You are there.” Familiar, famous words.

“The Lord is my shepherd”: today’s Responsorial Psalm.
“If I should walk in the valley of darkness, no evil would I fear. You are there.” Continue reading