AUSTRALIA DAY - NATIONAL DAY
(Sunday 26TH JANUARY) (EPISODE:515)
CELEBRATION - AUSTRALIA DAY - NATIONAL DAY (26TH JANUARY) (EPISODE:515)
THE LITURGY OF THE WORD
First Reading: Isaiah 32:15-18
Psalm: Ps 84:9-14. R. "The Lord speaks of peace to his people."
Second Reading: Romans 12:9-13
Gospel Acclamation: Matthew 11:25. Alleluia, alleluia!
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;
you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom.
Alleluia!
Gospel: Luke 12:22-32
Image: Shutterstock Licensed Stock Photo ID: 214578130. Kangaroo traffic sign. Photo Contributor: Petr Kratochvila
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Please listen to my audio recordings of the readings, prayers and reflections for the AUSTRALIA DAY NATIONAL DAY (26TH JANUARY) - by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-australia/s-y3hfy2K6wG3 (EPISODE:515)
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Australia Day –
A genuine Christian perspective encourages us to appreciate our blessings. This sentiment can enhance our celebration of Australia Day this year.
On January 26, we give thanks to God for the privileges of living in a nation marked by overwhelming examples of peace, prosperity, and stability—blessings not enjoyed by many around the world. We recognize the suffering in countries plagued by war, poverty, and oppressive regimes, reminding us of the stark contrasts we face.
This day commemorates the arrival of Governor Phillip in 1788, marking the foundation of the first permanent European settlement in Australia. It also acknowledges the rich history of the Indigenous peoples who have inhabited this land for millennia. The arrival of the British introduced significant changes, often accompanied by challenges and misunderstandings between two distinct cultures. Yet, through these trials, a diverse nation has emerged, enriched by migrants from around the globe. Our shared anthem, "we are one and free," reflects our commitment to unity in diversity—upholding shared values, dignity, and respect.
Our legal and political frameworks are founded in British democratic and parliamentary traditions that emphasize representative government, the rule of law, and individual freedoms. Moreover, the Christian influence brought by that same settlement has shaped our national ethos. Values like the Australian principle of a "fair go" are grounded in Christian teachings, such as Jesus' directive to treat others as we wish to be treated (Mt 7:12).
We honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedoms, acknowledging that our way of life is envied around the world. The influx of migrants and refugees shows that Australia remains a land of opportunity, with many choosing to become citizens each Australia Day.
However, we must not take our freedoms for granted. Just as we have defended our nation against external threats, we must guard against internal divisions that can erode our social cohesion. Our anthem's refrain, "for we are one and free," should guide our aspirations for the future. While we respect diverse beliefs, we must unite in upholding fundamental values, including the dignity of every person and the protection of human freedom.
This Australia Day, let us pray for true unity among all Australians for the common good, extending love and support to those in need. May we seek forgiveness and healing, and express gratitude for our abundant blessings. Let us strive to grow as a united people—truly one and free.
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Fr Paul W. Kelly
Adapted from the Australia Day homily by Archbishop Julian Porteous of Hobart, January 26, 2024
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/5tLgqgAxLgw9EWRnhVvY/australia-day-national-holiday-christian-background?ru=Paul-Evangelion
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Archive of homilies and reflections: http:homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com
To listen to the weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here: https:soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love, - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly
Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)
Scriptures – The Lectionary- Jerusalem Bible © 1969 – Collins Publishers.
"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers.
Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).
{Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" - by Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The ….Gloria, copyright 2011 ccwatershed.org. }
"Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of William John Kelly - Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul Kelly. Arranged, with additional lyrics and sung by Stefan Kelk. 2019.
Reflection Hymn - "Praise the Lord, All Creation." Original instrumental composition by William John Kelly (1942-2017). Original music composed by William John Kelly c. 1990. Arranged by Stefan Kelk. This arrangement Produced - 10th March 2021. https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk
"Today I Arise" - For Patricia Kelly. By Paul W. Kelly.. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer. Arranged, with additional lyrics and sung by Stefan Kelk. 2019.
[ Production - KER 2025]
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May God bless and keep you.
AUSTRALIA DAY NATIONAL DAY (26TH JANUARY)
(EPISODE:515 )
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pause and reflect upon our sins, in order to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
Lord Jesus, you came to gather the nations into the peace of God's kingdom: Lord, have mercy
You come in word and in sacrament to strengthen us and make us holy: Christ, have mercy
You will come again in glory with salvation for your people: Lord, have mercy.
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.
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Prayers Of The Faithful
READER
* For our nation on this Australia Day. We renew our determination to work together for justice, reconciliation and the common good. (PAUSE) Lord hear us:
* For our indigenous brothers and sisters, the first peoples of Australia: That we have the grace to listen to their stories, and walk gently with them on this ancient land. (PAUSE) Lord, hear us:
* For children and teachers who have returned to school this week. That they begin the year with energy and enthusiasm for the adventure of learning. (PAUSE) Lord, hear us:
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Memorial Acclamation
When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
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Sundays Australia Day Preface
Eucharistic Prayer II
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Go in Peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.
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Australia Day Lectionary –
Entrance Procession
Entrance Antiphon (Australia Day)
I will praise you, Lord, among the peoples,
among the nations sing psalms to you,
for your mercy reaches to the heavens,
and your truth to the skies.
Collect
Collect (Australia Day)
Let us pray.
Grant, we pray, O Lord our God,
that as the Cross shines in our southern skies,
so may Christ bring light to our nation,
to its peoples old and new,
and by saving grace, transform our lives.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer over the Offerings
Prayer over the Offerings (Australia Day)
Pray, brethren (brothers and sisters),
that my sacrifice and yours
may be acceptable to God,
the almighty Father.
May the Lord accept the sacrifice at your hands
for the praise and glory of his name,
for our good
and the good of all his holy Church.
As we come before you with the fruits of the earth,
tended by our hands, O Lord,
we pray that these offerings
may bring a blessing on our land
and peace to all who dwell here.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Preface (The Eucharistic Prayer)
Preface (Australia Day)
The Lord be with you.
And with your spirit.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them up to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right and just.
It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
and to praise, bless, and glorify your name
through Christ our Lord.
For from ancient times you made this land
a home for many peoples,
and became their rock of strength;
when they were hungry, you gave them food,
and when thirsty, water even in the desert.
To all, your providence has proclaimed
the Good News of Jesus Christ, your Son,
sent by you to be the Saviour of all the world,
who has brought peace by his sacrifice on the Cross.
And so, we lift our voices to you this day,
and with the people you have made your own,
from every race and tongue, every place and time,
we join in the song of the Angels in heaven,
as in exultant praise we acclaim:
Communion Antiphon
Communion Antiphon (Australia Day)
Bless the Lord, my soul,
and never forget all his benefits.
Prayer after Communion
Prayer after Communion (Australia Day)
Let us pray.
May our partaking of this sacrificial meal, O Lord,
grant us strength to walk together in the ways of justice,
and behold one day the new heavens and new earth
you prepare for us in Christ your Son.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Amen.
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First Reading
Isaiah 32:15-18 (JB)
A reading from the prophet Isaiah
(The effect of justice will be peace)
Once more there will be poured on us
the spirit from above;
then shall the wilderness be fertile land;
and fertile land become forest.
In the wilderness justice will come to live
and integrity in the fertile land;
integrity will bring peace,
justice give lasting security.
My people will live in a peaceful home,
in safe houses,
in quiet dwellings.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
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Responsorial Psalm
Ps 84:9-14 (JB)
R. The Lord speaks of peace to his people.
I will hear what the Lord God has to say,
a voice that speaks of peace.
His help is near for those who fear him
and his glory will dwell in our land. R.
Mercy and faithfulness have met;
justice and peace have embraced.
Faithfulness shall spring up from the earth
and justice look down from heaven. R.
The Lord will make us prosper
and our earth shall yield its fruit.
Justice shall march before him
and peace shall follow his steps. R.
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Second Reading
1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (JB)
A reading from the first letter of St Paul to the Corinthians
One and the same Spirit distributes different gifts as he chooses.
There is a variety of gifts but always the same Spirit; there are all sorts of service to be done, but always to the same Lord; working in all sorts of different ways in different people, it is the same God who is working in all of them. The particular way in which the Spirit is given to each person is for a good purpose. One may have the gift of preaching with wisdom given him by the Spirit; another may have the gift of preaching instruction given him by the same Spirit; and another the gift of faith given by the same Spirit; another again the gift of healing, through this one Spirit; one, the power of miracles; another, prophecy; another the gift of recognising spirits; another the gift of tongues and another the ability to interpret them. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, who distributes different gifts to different people just as he chooses.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
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Or
Romans 12:9-13 (JB)
A reading from the letter of St Paul to the Romans
(Work for the Lord earnestly).
Do not let your love be a pretence, but sincerely prefer good to evil. Love each other as much as brothers and sisters should, and have a profound respect for each other. Work for the Lord with untiring effort and with great earnestness of spirit. If you have hope, this will make you cheerful. Do not give up if trials come; and keep on praying. If any of the saints are in need you must share with them; and you should make hospitality your special care.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
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Gospel Acclamation
Matthew 5:9 (JB)
Alleluia, alleluia!
Happy the peacemakers:
they shall be called children of God.
Alleluia!
Or
cf Matthew 11:25 (JB)
Alleluia, alleluia!
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;
you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom.
Alleluia!
Gospel
Matthew 5:1-12 (JB)
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.
Jesus began to speak to the crowds. This is what he taught them:
'How happy are the poor in spirit:
theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Happy the gentle:
they shall have the earth for their heritage.
Happy those who mourn:
they shall be comforted.
Happy those who hunger and thirst for what is right:
they shall be satisfied.
Happy the merciful:
they shall have mercy shown them.
Happy the pure in heart:
they shall see God.
Happy the peacemakers:
they shall be called sons of God.
Happy those who are persecuted in the cause of right:
theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
'Happy are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.'
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Or:
Luke 12:22-32 (JB)
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke
It has pleased your heavenly Father to give you the Kingdom.
Jesus said to his disciples, 'That is why I am telling you not to worry about your life and what you are to eat, nor about your body and how you are to clothe it. For life means more than food, and the body more than clothing. Think of the ravens. They do not sow or reap; they have no storehouses and no barns; yet God feeds them. And how much more are you worth than the birds! Can any of you, for all his worrying, add a single cubit to his span of life? If the smallest things, therefore, are outside your control, why worry about the rest? Think of the flowers; they never have to spin or weave; yet, I assure you, not even Solomon in all his regalia was robed like one of these. Now if that is how God clothes the grass in the field which is there today and thrown into the furnace tomorrow, how much more will he look after you, you men of little faith! But you, you must not set your hearts on things to eat and things to drink; nor must you worry. It is the pagans of this world who set their hearts on these things. Your Father well knows you need them. No; set your hearts on his kingdom, and these other things will be given you as well.
'There is no need to be afraid, little flock, for it has pleased your Father to give you the kingdom.'
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
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