August 20. SEE.  Marriage feasts.  Women and men discussed the topic of weddings and feasts.  “Why would someone not want to go to a wedding especially a traditional one that goes on for a day or two with lots of food and drink, I wonder.” “Maybe too busy.”  “Can’t afford to dress up.” “Not really interested, or in the people involved.” Many reasons came from men and women. Portia concluded, “I think it’s mostly men who don’t see such religious or cultural things as relevant these days.   Is that the same reason why there are fewer men in church?  But of course we women are just far more sociable too,”

JUDGE. Reflect, share, act. Scripture:   The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son and sent his servants to call those invited but they would not come. Matt 22:1-14.  Pope Francis. Catechesis is a proclamation of the word and is always centred on that word, yet it also demands a suitable environment, an attractive presentation and the use of eloquent symbols.   Every dimension of the person should be inserted in a communal journey of hearing and response.  EG 166. Pope Leo. Let us cultivate relationships! In an era that favors speed and fragmentation, the human person still yearns to receive care and recognition from attentive minds, kind words and hands capable of tenderness. The digital culture multiplies connections and offers new opportunities for interaction; yet, the human heart retains an irrevocable need for genuine closeness. I invite everyone to cherish places and times where physical presence remains crucial, such as shared meals, Christian community gatherings, time spent with the lonely and serving the poor. These are signs of a humanity that continues to believe that every person’s body is a dwelling place of God and a temple of the Holy Spirit. MH 239   

ACT AND PRAY.   Explore differences that can contribute to improved relationships.  Pray St Francis Peace Prayer and pray: Mary, Queen Assumed into Heaven, Patroness of South Africa, pray for us.