February 11, 2020
Last week I was looking for singers. This week I am inviting everyone: those who are Catholic and those seeking to become Catholic, whether adults through the RCIA process, or parents presenting their children to complete the Sacraments of Initiation, to come to the Cathedral and join in the feast of liturgies that begins tonight.
February 03, 2020
When the Church of Maitland-Newcastle gathers for significant liturgical events we are looking to expand the Cathedral Choir with members from the whole diocesan Church who would like to be part of the choir for any or all of these events. This year I am particularly keen to expand the Choir for the Project Compassion Liturgy (Feb 25) so that the choir is representative of the whole diocese.
December 17, 2019
On Tuesday December 10, in 42 degree heat and while smoke filled the air, the Lochinvar community – sisters, students, colleagues and friends – gathered to bless the Lochinvar Chapel that was destroyed by fire in November 2018. The presence of the smoke added a poignancy to the celebration as Fr. Andrew noted in his introductory remarks. Within the context of Mass the primary focus of this liturgy was the dedication of the altar. I have been thinking a lot about our altars since then. So let us ponder together.
November 26, 2019
On September 30, Pope Francis wrote us a letter titled ‘Instituting the Sunday of the Word of God’. This is another great initiative from Pope Francis inviting us to open our minds and hearts to the scriptures as did the disciples on the road to Emmaus. I invite you to read the following article by our friend Nick Wagner. It is both thought provoking and practical.
November 19, 2019
I am constantly faced with the limitations of my understanding and my experience. This is a good thing. I like to be stretched. I like to think about things in a new way. I love those ‘aha’ moments of insight when I glimpse a new horizon of understanding. I love the truth that Christian/Catholic faith of its nature is always ‘seeking understanding’! It can be nothing but, because the mystery of God is the heart of our life and faith, and a mystery can never be fully experienced or known. So what do these musings have to do with liturgy?
November 05, 2019
Let me declare my prejudices right up front. I LOVE ADVENT! I love the readings. I love the focus on hope and promise. I love the lessons on waiting. I am already getting excited. I have this fantasy of taking Advent off, of withdrawing from the end of year rat race and immersing myself in the season. Maybe next year! Because of the beauty and wonder of Advent it is worth us taking some time to plan ahead so our celebration will shape us and prepare us for Christmas.
