October 5. A New Evangelisation.  The extended Jackson family had undergone quite tough times with the family business, which had caused tension between the members so some of the younger ones wanted to break away and do their own thing.  Joe and Vanessa were sad as they felt as if the family was falling apart. Two of the sons and their wives made a concerted effort to get the whole tribe together for a special celebration Mass for the parents 50th wedding anniversary.  It took some doing, some painful discussions and some healing but eventually the special day arrived. Afterwards Ruby shared, “This has been quite a mission and now maybe it is our family’s mission to keep some of our closeness alive and even share it with other families. Isn’t that something to celebrate?  

Reflect, share, act. Scripture :   The seventy returned with joy, saying, Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” Jesus said to them, Behold I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions and over the power of the enemy and nothing shall hurt you.  But do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”  Luke 10:17-24.  Pope Francis.  How I long to find the right words to stir up enthusiasm for a new chapter of evangelisation full of fervour, joy, generosity, courage, boundless love and attraction.   No words of encouragement will be enough unless the fire of the Holy Spirit burns in our hearts. EG261   Action and prayer.  “The SYNOD methodology “Conversation in the Spirit” is aimed at deterring polemical debate on controversial subjects. But the method “opens up ‘spaces’ in which to address even controversial issues together.” These issues, which are debated in society and in the Church, can often lead to “clashes” in person or on social media rather than considered discussion.”  Pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in us the fire of your love, so that walking together we may renew the face of the earth.