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A Reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah
Is 60:1-6
Returning from exile in Babylon, the Jews make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. The poet envisages all nations joining this pilgrimage to the light. God manifesting himself in Jesus Christ is a light shining in the darkness of the human condition. The Gentiles (non-Jews) responding to this revelation of God in Christ are symbolized by the Magi. Pray that all may see the light!
The Responsorial Psalm is that that we put our trust in Jesus because of his love and kindness and that he has done great things for us, so we should be filled with joy and love for him and to be like him
in your self-giving. He raises up the lowly from the dust; from the dunghill he lifts up the poor. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. The Lord hears the cry of the poor!
A Reading, From the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians
Eph 3:2-3a,5-6
Paul stresses that God manifested himself in the Lord Jesus not only to the Jews but to all nations. The Gentiles (non-Jews) are now coheirs with the Jews, members of Christ's body and sharers of the divine promise.
" God has called you out of darkness, with his wonderful light: "May you be strong in faith, hope and love."
In the Gospel of Matthew
Mt. 2:1-12
Yearning for self-determination, the Jews were constantly expecting a Messiah (Anointed King), freedom fighter, and redeemer from oppression. There was even a horoscope circulating, telling about his star, and we can readily understand that a superstitious Herod might be upset by Magi.
But rather than searching for the background material of this story we ask: Inspired by God, what does Matthew try to bring out by adding this legend to his Gospel, because that is God's word to you and me? Quoting Scripture, Matthew teaches Jesus is the ruler who is to shepherd God's people. God's Epiphany in Jesus Christ is for all! All should join mankind's search for the Light of the World!
Newsy Notes
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Deacon Bob Brazier, CRE
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"PSR"
Remember our last PSR class will be on the 18th of December
Will resume on January 8th
"CONFIRMATION"
Our Net Ministry will be here once again.
The 8th Grade class will have their retreat January 14th starting at 9:00am
here at St. Thomas More
"Remember"
Our next 8th Grade Confirmation Class will be held in Faith Formation Room at 11:15 on January 15th
Address future PSR and Sacramental Preparation Questions to:
Deacon Bob Brazier at bbrazier@sttm.org
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