13/05/2022

The collect prays that we may do more to further the reign of Christ. Isaiah rejoices in "integrity" and the Gospel records praise of Mary because she is the one whose flesh has become the dwellling place of Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Where do we find a garment of Salvation today. The Church does not follow her own teaching. Bishops give more time to protecting their ever-diminishing political influence than to caring for their flocks. Our local Bishop, having presided previously over a Seminary of doubtful reputation, now in our diocese continues with the nonsense of promoting Mercy to the non-contrite who receive the sacramnt and then flaunt their "pride" in sin.

The Church has taught for centuries that worthy reception of the Body and Blood of Christ depends on the recipient being free from mortal sin. I know that many cohabiting couples take commuion but maintain their sinful unions. Politicians who support abortions, same-sex marriages and the stupidity of gender adjustment are not refused access to the Sacrament.

Surely today's readings will have some effect on our clergy. "Integrity" is the most unlikely virtue to be applied to the institution that seems to have no confidence in Father Son and Holy Spirit even though we have Jesus' promise to be with us until the end of time.

Dear Lord, forgive me if my knowledge of the failings of the Church you built on St Peter dominates my prayers and thinking. I look to be part of the Church of Love which cannot do wrong for it consciously looks to St John and the Marys who did not desert you on Calvary. May your mother in Heaven lead all the saints in prayer to cleanse the institutional Church of all its failures and failings.