One group from Jesus, The Good Shepherd, Parish Belmont have been meeting on a regular basis to reflect on the Sunday Gospel. Parishioner Jan Allen had a burning desire to engage the community in faith formation and initiated the invitation for a monthly gathering. As a result, a constant, yet fluid group have been meeting for the best part of the year.

It has been a privilege to be invited into the space of prayer and reflection as the mystery of God is revealed through scripture, an encounter with each other and our experience with the wider world.

This month the group reflected on the Gospel of Mark 12:28-34, The Greatest Commandment. The scripture speaks of when one of the teachers of the law questions Jesus about what is the most important commandment. Jesus being a faithful Jew states loving only one God then adds another commandment, love your neighbour as yourself!

As part of the prayerful process of Mystagogical reflection we turn our focus to what captures our attention, what is God revealing to us, why does it matter now and how will we live differently because of what we have heard. I am continuously amazed by the wisdom and richness that occurs when we apply the scripture to our own life. While is it important to consider the world behind the text, the world within the text, it is the world in front of the text and what we experience in the here and now that puts our faith into action.

Through sharing experiences of loving our neighbour we all developed a deeper understanding and appreciation of what it means to give and receive love. Despite this, questions did emerge about the epidemic of loneliness and challenges within contemporary society. My thoughts turned to Pope Francis’ fourth encyclical, dedicated to the Heart of Jesus Christ: Dilexit Nos “He Loved Us” which was only released on October 24, 2024.

The central idea of this encyclical is that the love of God revealed in Jesus Christ is not just an intimate, personal experience but the deep source that drives us to love others, change society, and build peace through dialogue and respect for others.

So how can we show love to our neighbour, so our faith speaks louder than words?  

The insight I gained from the prayer group was sometimes it is the little things that can make a big difference. Inviting a stranger to dinner, a warm greeting as you pass someone by, assisting with fundraising for those in need, talking to people when you take your dog for a walk, popping up from weeding your garden to say hello to a new mum pushing a pram, reaching out to the lonely and isolated. Ultimately treating all with dignity, respect and overall love, the same love that Jesus showed all he encountered and the love he shows us.

As we prepare to be pilgrims of hope there is much, we can learn from Pope Francis’ latest writings and reflecting on scripture with each other.

To access the Encyclical Letter Dilexit Nos, “He Loved Us”: 

Via the CDMN Library to read the full text – Delexit Nos : He Loved Us

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