This Sunday's reading is from the holy Gospel according to Mark: The Widow's mite.

The central theme of this Sunday's readings is the willingness to give all that one has.  

After denouncing the religiosity of the scribes, Jesus observed people putting money into the treasury. He noticed that rich individuals were contributing “a great deal,” likely to ensure their donations were noticed.

However, Jesus told his disciples that a “poor widow” gave more than anyone else. As Pope Francis points out, she didn’t pray to draw attention to herself, nor did she flaunt her faith. Trusting in God and acting humbly, Jesus recognized her contribution.

There is another important aspect to this incident: it highlights the stark contrast between the devout scribes and the poor widow. Jesus describes the scribes as “men who swallow the property of widows.” The difference between their outward piety and the widow's humility is profound.

Jesus isn’t just praising humility; he is also addressing a grave injustice. As the Pope notes, Jesus “denounces the exploitation of this woman.” After depositing her tiny coins, the widow “must return home without even the little she had to live on.”

The Pope urges us to take this Gospel message to heart. We are all called to embody humility but also to strive for justice. He reminds us that this serves as a warning for all time and everyone, including both the Church and society at large. We must “never take advantage of one’s role to oppress others, nor profit from the struggles of the weak!” God will remember every penny given and every unjust action taken. Adapted from Nick Brodie.

Important Dates and Reminders:

Remembrance Day Liturgy

Our Remembrance Day Liturgy will be led by our Year 4 students on Monday at 2:15 pm in the school hall. All are welcome to join us!

Reconciliation Retreat Day

This is a reminder that our Year 4 students will participate in a Reconciliation Retreat Day at HFC next Tuesday 12th of November. We are very excited to have students from St Mary MacKillop College join us on that day.

Farewell Masses for Fr James and Fr Namora

Our parish will be holding farewell masses for Fr. James and Fr. Namora over the weekend of the 14^th and 15^th of December. All are welcome to join us for any of these masses and pass on their thanks and farewell messages. There will be light refreshments served after each Mass. 

Susan Strickland 

Religious Education Coordinator (Acting)