November 4.  Bryan met with Mrs Page, the parish’s volunteer psychologist when they shared with Fr Michael, “Isn’t it strange how often people avoid what needs to be addressed, whether it is a terminal illness and approaching death, a marriage running into difficulties and fears about divorce or issues with children, other family members or work related matters.  Is there a great fear of loss, so much so that we manage to hide it and pretend it doesn’t exist?” “Or even refuse any help that is offered,” he responded. “That always saddens me. “ 

Reflect, share, act. Scripture:  A man gave a great banquet and invited many. When the time came he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited. “Come for all is now ready.”  But they all began to make excuses.  From Luke: 14: 5-24 Pope Francis: the life of every family is marked by all kinds of crises, yet these are also part of its dramatic beauty. Couples should be helped to realise that surmounting a crisis need not weaken their relationship, instead it can improve, settle and mature the wine of their union. AL 232. Jubilee  What will characterize this fullness of communion? Being happy. Happiness is our human vocation, a goal to which all aspire. But what is happiness? What is the happiness that we await and desire? Not some fleeting pleasure, a momentary satisfaction that, once experienced, keeps us longing for more, in a desperate quest that leaves our hearts unsated and increasingly empty. We aspire to a happiness that is definitively found in the one thing that can bring us fulfilment, which is love. SNC 21.  Act and Pray for compassionate concern for those suffering loss in their families.