15/04/2024

We are the first generation of humans who have all been able to be aware of the actual events that become the "History" of the future. All of us prior to this "Computer Age" relied on eye-witness accounts to know what was happening outside of our immediate location in the present and what had happened centuries ago.

Jesus assured us that we who believe in him without actually seeing/hearing him are blessed and will always be supported in this world by the Holy Spirit, the Advocate he will send to defend us in times of trial.

The story of St Stephen who was able to defend himself during this first trial before the Sanhedrin is the proof of Jesus' promise to inspire those who are persecuted for believing and preaching in his Name with the words to defend themselves.

Over the centuries since the events recalled in today's Mass Readings the tables have been turned for the Church founded on St Peter and that institution has often become the prosecutor and persecutor of those who challenged the validity of the beliefs and conduct of its Clergy.

 There have been very many injustices perpetrated by what should have become the Mystical Body of Christ in defence of it worldliness. Many holy people have been slaughtered by the defenders of a Faith that is  focused on the things of this world. In my lifetime I have become aware that many innocents have become the victims of the sexual deviancy of shepherds who are supposed to care for our souls.

Our bishops who appeared before the UK inquiry into the sexual abuse of children by Catholic Priests know much better than I do how far away from the Holy Spirit they were in the guilt that was totally visible in their sheepish looks and inarticulation. The Sanhedrin saw Stephen as an angel we saw our Bishops as the guilty men that they still are.

Dear Lord, save me from the anger which I still feel about ordained clergy who do not in themselves reveal their belief in "the one who sent Jesus" to create for all times the Sacraments by which we can access the way, the truth and the life and which only they have the authority to confect in this world. May Mary continue to pray for all sinners that we become your adopted children and that we avoid sin. Turn all belligerents away from violence and may we all soon be witnesses to the Final Act that will bring New Life to the whole of Creation.