Cardinal’s reflections
We know from the gospels that Jesus was not gentle with those who go in search of greetings in the square, those who look for praise and adulation, those who want people to treat them with special respect, people who think they are more important than others. ![]()
An angel appeared to Mary his mother and gave her astounding news, but she did not exalt herself, she is troubled and amazed. She does not expect privileges or entitlements for herself because in her humility, free from herself, she knows she receives everything from God. She lives her holiness in a small house in a village, not in the public eye or on the world stage.![]()
Today is the patronal feast day of the Archdiocese of Wellington, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. We ask Mary for a special grace, that she free us from the misleading idea that the gospel is one thing and life another. We ask that she enkindle in us the ideal of holiness which is about living humbly and joyfully whatever happens each day, , with our eyes fixed on God and the neighbour we meet, bringing grace and comfort to those we encounter.![]()
To be freed from ourselves, from the desire for status or acknowledgement greatly reduces the stress in our lives.
Community
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 8 December
‘As has been the custom for many years an archdiocesan Mass will be celebrated on our diocesan feast day, 7pm, Thursday 8 December, at St Teresa’s Pro-Cathedral, Karori. The archdiocese will again be entrusted to the care of Mary under the title of the Immaculate Conception at this Mass. Parishes are asked to renew that Consecration on the following Sunday, 11 December, at All parish Masses.’ – Cardinal John Dew
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