August 18.   Harassment.  There was quite some discussion around the subject of sexual harassment especially in the workplace. Both the men and women needed to have their say.  “You men…….”   and “You women…….” went on for a bit. “It’s the way you dress.”  “But why can’t we?”    “You know what,” Joan said, “I wonder if we are conscious of our commitment to our husbands, partners, children etc. when we are at work.  Do we separate our private and work lives?” “I have found it quite a challenge when the women at work look so sexy and my wife at home may not be looking her best,” Martin admitted.

Scripture:   In those days the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals and forsook the Lord. So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel and he gave them over to plunderers. Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them. And yet they did not listen to their judges for they played the harlot after other gods.  From Judges 2:11-19.    Pope Francis.  We treat loving relationships the way we treat material objects and the environment: everything is disposable: everyone uses and throws away, takes and breaks, exploits and squeezes the last drop.  Narcissism makes people incapable of looking beyond themselves, beyond their own desires and needs.  AL 39.  JUBILEE. Saint Paul often speaks of patience in the context of our need for perseverance and confident trust in God’s promises. Yet, before all else, he testifies to God’s own patience, as “the God of all patience and encouragement” ( Rom 15:5). SNC 4  Act and pray. For the needs of families of all kinds to grow in love and acceptance.