Our Lady Queen of Heaven
Catholic Church, Harwich, Essex

19, 20 and 21 Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A) 13, 20 and 27 August 2023

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Matthew 14:22-33)

Peter is overcome with doubt and is upheld by Jesus. The gospel in which Peter is entrusted with authority also testifies to his vulnerability. The story ends with a declaration of faith by the disciples.

How do I react when my faith is tested by the storms of life?

Do I trust in the helping hand of the Lord when I am out of my depth?

We pray for confidence and serenity amid the trials of life.

We pray for the Jewish people that they may remain faithful to God’s covenant.

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Matthew 15:21-28)

The good news of the Kingdom is to be preached by all, but the initial priority of Jesus is to bring the gospel to his own people. It will be the mission of the Church to teach all nations.

Is my faith resilient when I am faced with trials?

Do I rejoice in the faith of the nations which is displayed in the Catholic Church?

We pray that Christ’s message of hope may reach all people.

We pray for the Jewish people that they may know the fulness of God’s mercy

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time (Matthew 16:12-20)

In the synoptic gospels a point of climax is reached when Jesus asks his disciples the question: ‘Who do you say I am?’ It is a question all Christians must answer. Peter’s profession of faith leads to mission.

What is the role of Jesus the Messiah in my understanding?

What does it mean to say that Jesus founded the Church?

Pray for the Pope that he may show the wisdom and love of Christ in all his actions.

We pray that the Church may be a place of welcome, hope and encouragement for all.

                                                                                                       Fr Adrian Graffy