July!

How did that happen? I remember grandma would speak of time passing quickly, yet I, as a child, was enjoying endless summer days! As we presently enjoy winter months it is obvious that while technology was intended to increase our leisure time, in fact, people now speak of the frantic pace of life with an intensity not known before.

It’s refreshing at times to do things differently, and so it was, to be walking down to St Paul’s Cathedral on Sunday last, while Archbishop Paul was about to celebrate our 10am Mass. Joining with Dean Katie and parish on the eve of the one of their name-day feasts, Ss Peter and Paul. The sermon was preached by Dr Andrew Shepherd (Senior Lecturer, Theology and Public Issues, Otago University) and looked to the recent Encyclical of Pope Leo XIV, ‘Magnifica Humanitas’. Pope Leo’s words are responding to the challenges of this time with discernment and hope. We will have times this year to reflect on ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ within homilies, in groups, and through the newsletter. Why not pick up a copy online, listen to it via the Vatican News Website podcast section, or purchase a copy at our shop.

On Mission Sunday, 18th October, it has been suggested that we have a celebration of our ‘unity in diversity’ through a multi-cultural concert and sharing of edible delights! This seems a wonderful initiative. So, following the 10am Mass we can feast on diverse foods and refreshments, and then join together in the Cathedral for groups to share song, dance, verse, giftedness. The Gospel spread to all nations – even to the farthest ends of the earth: Aotearoa New Zealand. A great reason to celebrate! Note this in your diary and begin to organise a group with whom you can share your culture with us all!

Feel like a little top-up for your faith? On Saturday, 1st August, in Connolly Hall, Fr Paul Turner will give input on the art of celebrating the Mass. An international liturgist in our own hall – why not take up the opportunity.

Communion under both kinds (Hosts and Precious Blood) will be resuming when the next ministry roster comes out. We will need further ministers to assist, enabling the smooth distribution of the Eucharist during Mass. Yes, you are being called. See you in the foyer with the signup sheets!

Later in the month Fr Christian Marave will be joining the parish. Christian is a Carmelite priest from the Philippines. He will be living and ministering with us in the Cathedral for the rest of the year. I know he will be warmly welcomed to his new home within our Sacred Heart parish.

In the dark of winter soil, new life always moves! Prayers, Patrick