Author Archives: Fr Charles

Psalm 63

Psalm 63 (62 in the Latin) is attributed to King David and is a heartfelt expression of his deep longing for God’s presence and his trust in God’s protection and provision. This psalm is classified as a “psalm of lament” or a “psalm of longing.”

The psalm begins with David expressing his intense thirst and longing for God. He compares this longing to a physical thirst in a dry and weary land where water is scarce. This imagery conveys his spiritual yearning for communion with God. David speaks of his experience of encountering God in the sanctuary and beholding His power and glory. This encounter brings him a sense of spiritual satisfaction and contentment that surpasses any earthly pleasures.

Amidst challenging circumstances, David expresses his trust in God’s protective care. He acknowledges that God has been his help and refuge, even in difficult times. This trust enables him to find rest and peace in God’s presence. David’s response to God’s goodness is praise. He lifts up his hands and offers blessing to God. This part of the psalm helps us to see the importance of gratitude and recognizing God’s faithfulness.
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Faithful Living and Obedience

“Blessed is the man who hath not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stood in the way of sinners, nor sat in the chair of pestilence. But his will is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he shall meditate day and night.” (Psalm 1:1-2)

Psalm 1 holds a special place within Catholic thought as a beautiful and wise expression of guidance for leading a blessed life. The psalmist David urges believers to shun the advice of the wicked and instead find joy in God’s teachings. Through continuous contemplation of God’s word, we can thrive spiritually, akin to a well-rooted tree bearing abundant fruit. In Catholic belief, adhering to God’s teachings is pivotal for a fulfilling life. Observing the Lord’s commandments and living righteously leads to genuine happiness and inner tranquillity.
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Homily: Parable of the Talents

At that time Jesus spoke this parable to His disciples: A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And calling his ten servants, he gave them ten pounds; and said to them, Trade till I come. But his citizens hated him; and they sent an embassage after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us. And it came to pass that he returned, having received the kingdom; and he commanded his servants to be called, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. And the first came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds: and he said to him, Well done, thou good servant, because thou hast been faithful in a little, thou shalt have power over ten cities. And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds: and he said to him, Be thou also over five cities. And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin; for I feared thee, because thou art an austere man; thou takest up what thou didst not lay down, and thou reapest that which thou didst not sow. He saith to him, Out of thy own mouth I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knowest that I was an austere man, taking up what I laid not down, and reaping that which I did not sow: and why then didst thou not give my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have exacted it with usury? And he said to them that stood by, Take the pound away from him, and give it to him that hath the ten pounds. And they said to Him, Lord, he hath ten pounds. But I say to you, that to every one that hath shall be given, and he shall abound; and from him that hath not, even that which he hath shall be taken from him. (Luke 19: 12-26)

In today’s Gospel passage, we read the parable spoken by our Lord to His disciples. This parable, often referred to as the Parable of the Talents, provides us with profound lessons about our responsibilities, stewardship, and the account we must one day render before God.

In this parable, a nobleman sets forth on a distant voyage, his purpose being to attain a kingdom for himself and subsequently return. Prior to his departure, he entrusts ten of his servants with ten pounds each, instructing them to engage in trade during his absence. This nobleman signifies our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. His departure into the “far country” represents His ascension into Heaven after His earthly ministry, and His return refers to His glorious Second Coming.

This parable illustrates the spiritual endowments, talents, and resources God bestows upon each one of us. The pounds symbolize these divine gifts, granted to us to be used wisely and productively in the service of God and our fellow men. The nobleman’s directive to “trade till I come” echoes the call of Christ for us to actively engage in the work of the Kingdom during our sojourn on Earth.
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Divine Favour and Mercy

“Many times did he deliver them. But they provoked him with their counsel: and they were brought low by their iniquities. And he saw when they were in tribulation: and he heard their prayer. And he was mindful of his covenant: and repented according to the multitude of his mercies. And he gave them unto mercies, in the sight of all those that had made them captives. Save us, O Lord, our God: and gather us from among nations: That we may give thanks to thy holy name, and may glory in thy praise. Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say: So be it, so be it.” (Psalm 105:43-48, Douay-Rheims)

In our faith, God’s favour is associated with His mercy and grace. These verses reflect the fact that God’s mercy is a central aspect of His nature.

It is our belief that God is infinitely loving and compassionate, always ready to extend His grace to those who seek Him with sincere hearts. When someone prays this Psalm, they are acknowledging their need for God’s mercy and expressing trust in His willingness to help and bless them.
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Gospel Reading for August 14, 2023

Vigil of the Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary (and Commemoration of St. Eusebius)

Gospel reading:
At that time: As Jesus was speaking to the multitudes, a certain woman from the crowd, lifting up her voice, said to Him, Blessed is the womb that bore Thee, and the breasts that gave Thee suck. But He said, Yea, rather, blessed are they who hear the word of God and keep it. (Luke 11: 27-28)

General Devotions for Monday: “King of virgins and lover of chastity…” (Fr. Lasance Missal, page 1806)

Leonine Prayers

Leonine Prayers be recited after Mass.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee to we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this exile, show unto us the blessed Fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
V. Let us pray.

O God, our refuge and our strength, look down with mercy upon the people who cry to Thee; and by the intercession of the glorious and immaculate Virgin Mary, Mother of God, of Saint Joseph her spouse, of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, and of all the saints, in Thy mercy and goodness hear our prayers for the conversion of sinners, and for the liberty and exaltation of the Holy Mother the Church. Through the same Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray: and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

V. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus,
R. Have mercy on us.
V. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus,
R. Have mercy on us.
V. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus,
R. Have mercy on us.

A Prayer for the New School Year

Heavenly Father, as we embark on a new academic year, we come before You with gratitude for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. We ask for Your guidance and blessings to encompass all who are part of this educational journey – students, parents, teachers, and school staff.

For the students, grant them the wisdom to learn, the curiosity to explore, and the perseverance to overcome obstacles. May they be inspired by the pursuit of knowledge and growth, and may their hearts remain open to the lessons that extend beyond textbooks.

For parents, provide them with patience and understanding as they support their children’s educational endeavours. Help them to nurture a loving and supportive home environment that encourages learning and fosters strong values.
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Embracing Divine Peace and Salvation

“I will hear what the Lord God will speak in me: for he will speak peace unto his people: And unto his saints: and unto them that are converted to the heart. Surely his salvation is near to them that fear him: that glory may dwell in our land.” (Psalm 84:9-10, Douay-Rheims)

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, amidst the noise and chaos of the world, it is essential for us to pause and listen attentively to the voice of our Lord. The psalmist reminds us that God speaks peace to His people and to all those whose hearts are turned towards Him. In the stillness of our hearts, we can open ourselves to hear the gentle whisper of God. Just as Elijah encountered God not in the wind, earthquake, or fire but in a still, small voice (1 Kings 19:11-13), so too can we discern the voice of the Lord when we seek Him with a receptive heart. Through prayer, meditation, and Scripture, we create a space where God’s peace can permeate our souls and guide our steps.
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Homily: The Lord, Our Majestic King

“The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.” Our responsorial Psalm brings us into the presence of our majestic and sovereign God, calling us to contemplate His authority and dominion over all creation. The psalmist invites us to lift our hearts in praise and adoration to the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords. Our God reigns supreme over all the earth. His power and glory know no bounds, and His majesty is beyond compare.

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainties, we find comfort in knowing that God is in control. He rules over the vastness of the cosmos, yet He is intimately aware of each one of us, knowing us by name and caring for us with a love beyond measure. This same King who governs the heavens desires to dwell within our hearts, guiding our steps and illuminating our path with His light.
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Homily: God’s Mercy in the Sacrament

“The eyes of all look hopefully to you, and you give them their food at the right time.” (Psalm 145:15, New Catholic Bible)

In Psalm 145:14-21, we encounter an immense expression of God’s divine providence and compassion, reflecting the Catholic understanding of our loving and merciful Creator. We firmly believe in the Lord’s unwavering support for His children, especially those who stumble in their journey of faith. God tenderly lifts up the bowed down, providing strength and solace to those who turn to Him in their weakness.
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