by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 27, 2025 | Evangelium
Saint Augustine of Hippo (354 – 430)
Psalter: Week I
White
He was born in Thagaste in Africa of a Berber family. He had a brilliant legal and academic career. At length, through the prayers of his mother, and the teaching of St Ambrose of Milan, he was converted back to Christianity. He wrote an enormous number of works. He was declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Boniface VIII in 1308.
Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Sir 15: 5
In the midst of the Church he opened his mouth, and the Lord filled him with the spirit of wisdom and understanding and clothed him in a robe of glory.
Collect
Renew in your Church, we pray, O Lord, the spirit with which you endowed your Bishop Saint Augustine that, filled with the same spirit, we may thirst for you,
the sole fount of true wisdom, and seek you, the author of heavenly love. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
First reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13
Brothers, your faith has been a great comfort to us in the middle of our own troubles and sorrows; now we can breathe again, as you are still holding firm in the Lord. How can we thank God enough for you, for all the joy we feel before our God on your account? We are earnestly praying night and day to be able to see you face to face again and make up any shortcomings in your faith. May God our Father himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, make it easy for us to come to you. May the Lord be generous in increasing your love and make you love one another and the whole human race as much as we love you. And may he so confirm your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless in the sight of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus Christ comes with all his saints.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89 (90):3-4, 12-14, 17
R/ Fill us with your love that we may rejoice.
You turn men back to dust and say: ‘Go back, sons of men.’ To your eyes a thousand years are like yesterday, come and gone, no more than a watch in the night.
Make us know the shortness of our life that we may gain wisdom of heart. Lord, relent! Is your anger for ever? Show pity to your servants.
In the morning, fill us with your love; we shall exult and rejoice all our days. Let the favour of the Lord be upon us: give success to the work of our hands.
Gospel Acclamation: Jn15:15
Alleluia, alleluia! I call you friends, says the Lord, because I have made known to you everything I have learnt from my Father. Alleluia!
Gospel: Matthew 24:42-51
Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Stay awake, because you do not know the day when your master is coming. You may be quite sure of this, that if the householder had known at what time of the night the burglar would come, he would have stayed awake and would not have allowed anyone to break through the wall of his house. Therefore, you too must stand ready because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. ‘What sort of servant, then, is faithful and wise enough for the master to place him over his household to give them their food at the proper time? Happy that servant if his master’s arrival finds him at this employment. I tell you solemnly, he will place him over everything he owns. But as for the dishonest servant who says to himself, “My master is taking his time,” and sets about beating his fellow servants and eating and drinking with drunkards, his master will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not know. The master will cut him off and send him to the same fate as the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.’
Prayer over the Offerings
Celebrating the memorial of our salvation, we humbly beseech your mercy, O Lord, that this Sacrament of your loving kindness may be for us the sign of unity and the bond of charity. Through Christ our Lord.
Communion Antiphon: Mt 23: 10, 8
Thus says the Lord: You have but one teacher, the Christ, and you are all brothers.
Prayer after Communion
May partaking of Christ’s table sanctify us, we pray, O Lord, that, being made members of his Body, we may become what we have received. Through Christ our Lord.
Meditation
Are we prepared to meet the Lord? As servants of our master, He will be glad if we demonstrate consistency in carrying out our responsibilities, even in times when we may believe that He is prolonging His return. At times, there is a risk of back sliding in our faith and becoming complacent in our actions, adopting the mindset of “Life is short, let us enjoy life.” We must, however, consider the potential consequences of being caught unprepared. The challenge presented in this Gospel is to maintain constant preparedness, both physically and spiritually, as we await the Second Coming of the Master, Jesus Christ.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 26, 2025 | Evangelium
Saint Monica (331 – 387)
Psalter: Week I
White
She was born at Thagaste in Africa of a Christian family. She was the mother of St. Augustine of Hippo, who when young was intelligent but weak in morals. With many tears she prayed unceasingly to God for his conversion and her prayers were answered shortly before she died.
Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Prov 31: 30, 28
The woman who fears the Lord will herself be praised. Her children have called her most blessed, her husband has sung her praises.
Collect
O God, who console the sorrowful and who mercifully accepted the motherly tears of Saint Monica for the conversion of her son Augustine, grant us, through the intercession of them both, that we may bitterly regret our sins and find the grace of your pardon. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
First reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13
Let me remind you, brothers, how hard we used to work, slaving night and day so as not to be a burden on any one of you while we were proclaiming God’s Good News to you. You are witnesses, and so is God, that our treatment of you, since you became believers, has been impeccably right and fair. You can remember how we treated every one of you as a father treats his children, teaching you what was right, encouraging you and appealing to you to live a life worthy of God, who is calling you to share the glory of his kingdom. Another reason why we constantly thank God for you is that as soon as you heard the message that we brought you as God’s message, you accepted it for what it really is, God’s message and not some human thinking; and it is still a living power among you who believe it.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 138 (139):7-12
R/ O Lord, you search me and you know me.
where can I go from your spirit, or where can I flee from your face? If I climb the heavens, you are there. If I lie in the grave, you are there.
If I take the wings of the dawn and dwell at the sea’s furthest end, even there your hand would lead me, your right hand would hold me fast.
If I say: ‘Let the darkness hide me and the light around me be night,’ even darkness is not dark for you and the night is as clear as the day.
Gospel Acclamation: Mt 4:4
Alleluia, alleluia! Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. Alleluia!
Gospel: Matthew 23:27-32
Jesus said: ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who are like whitewashed tombs that look handsome on the outside, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of corruption. In the same way you appear to people from the outside like good honest men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who build the sepulchres of the prophets and decorate the tombs of holy men, saying, “We would never have joined in shedding the blood of the prophets, had we lived in our fathers’ day.” So! Your own evidence tells against you! You are the sons of those who murdered the prophets! Very well then, finish off the work that your fathers began.’
Prayer over the Offerings
We bring you these sacrificial gifts, O Lord, to commemorate blessed N., humbly entreating that they may bestow on us both pardon and salvation. Through Christ our Lord.
Communion Antiphon: Cf. Mt 13: 45-46
The Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant who travels in search of fine pearls and who, on finding one of great price, sold everything and bought it.
Prayer after Communion
May the working of this divine Sacrament enlighten and inflame us, almighty God, on this feast day of blessed N., that we may be ever fervent with holy desires and abound in good works. Through Christ our Lord.
Meditation
How can one distinguish between authenticity and deception, genuineness and counterfeit? Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would not judge by outward appearances that are often deceptive. He would judge not by sight or hearing but with righteousness, prioritising justce for the poor and equity for the meek of the earth (Isaiah 11:3-4). The heart reveals the true intentions and attitudes that form the way we think of others and treat them. Jesus uses strong language to warn the religious leaders and teachers about the vanity of outward appearances and pretence. He highlights the futility of wearing a metaphorical mask that conceals the true intentions and thoughts of the heart. He associates true beauty and goodness with a clean heart and mind, oriented toward God’s love and goodness. Conversely, He links sin with a corrupt mind and heart that are focused on wrongdoing and evil.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 25, 2025 | Evangelium
Blessed Dominic Barberi (1792 – 1849)
Psalter: Week I
Green
Dominic Barberi was born near Viterbo, Italy, in 1792 and joined the Passionist Order. He worked as a missionary in England. Blessed Dominic was noted for the personal warmth of his approach to non-Catholics and for his zeal in preaching; he drew crowds in spite of his strong Italian accent. Blessed Dominic died at Reading in 1849.
Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Ps 85: 1-3
Turn your ear, O Lord, and answer me; save the servant who trusts in you, my God. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I cry to you all the day long.
Collect
O God, who cause the minds of the faithful to unite in a single purpose, grant your people to love what you command and to desire what you promise, that, amid the uncertainties of this world,
our hearts may be fixed on that place where true gladness is found. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
First reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
You know yourselves, my brothers, that our visit to you has not proved ineffectual. We had, as you know, been given rough treatment and been grossly insulted at Philippi, and it was our God who gave us the courage to proclaim his Good News to you in the face of great opposition. We have not taken to preaching because we are deluded, or immoral, or trying to deceive anyone; it was God who decided that we were fit to be entrusted with the Good News, and when we are speaking, we are not trying to please men but God, who can read our inmost thoughts. You know very well, and we can swear it before God, that never at any time have our speeches been simply flattery, or a cover for trying to get money; nor have we ever looked for any special honour from men, either from you or anybody else, when we could have imposed ourselves on you with full weight, as apostles of Christ. Instead, we were unassuming. Like a mother feeding and looking after her own children, we felt so devoted and protective towards you, and had come to love you so much, that we were eager to hand over to you not only the Good News but our whole lives as well.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 138(139):1-3,4-6
R/ O Lord, you search me and you know me.
O Lord, you search me and you know me, you know my resting and my rising, you discern my purpose from afar.
You mark when I walk or lie down, all my ways lie open to you. Before ever a word is on my tongue you know it, O Lord, through and through.
Behind and before you besiege me, your hand ever laid upon me. Too wonderful for me this knowledge, too high, beyond my reach.
Gospel Acclamation: cf.Ac16:14
Alleluia, alleluia! Open our heart, O Lord, to accept the words of your Son. Alleluia!
Gospel: Matthew 23:23-26
Jesus said: ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who pay your tithe of mint and dill and cumin and have neglected the weightier matters of the Law – justice, mercy, good faith! These you should have practised, without neglecting the others. You blind guides! Straining out gnats and swallowing camels! ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who clean the outside of cup and dish and leave the inside full of extortion and intemperance. Blind Pharisee! Clean the inside of cup and dish first so that the outside may become clean as well.’
Prayer over the Offerings
O Lord, who gained for yourself a people by adoption through the one sacrifice offered once for all, bestow graciously on us, we pray, the gifts of unity and peace in your Church. Through Christ our Lord.
Communion Antiphon: Cf. Ps 103: 13-15
The earth is replete with the fruits of your work, O Lord; you bring forth bread from the earth and wine to cheer the heart.
Prayer after Communion
Complete within us, O Lord, we pray, the healing work of your mercy and graciously perfect and sustain us, so that in all things we may please you. Through Christ our Lord.
Meditation
In this passage, Jesus continues to strongly criticise the religious leaders of His time for their lack of holiness and genuineness. He accuses them of focusing on outward appearances, presenting a façade of purity while harbouring defilement within. Jesus extends this imagery to all who call themselves people of God, emphasising the tendency to wear religious garb while in reality we are mere sinners in need of God’s grace. Christ is calling us out of our arrogant selves and reminding us that holiness is not something that is displayed to others but rather something interior. It is more important to grow in relationship with God than to receive the praise of others. This passage cautions us against passing judgement and labelling others as “heathens” without acknowledging our own need of God’s grace.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 25, 2025 | Agenda Biblique
Saint cesaire d’arles, eveque
Psautier: I
Vert/Blanc
En 503, un ancien moine de Lérins, devenu prêtre, puis abbé d’un monastère proche d’Arles, fut élu évêque de cette cité. Césaire (vers 470-543) a été appelé le ‘’précepteur de la Gaule’’. Grand admirateur de saint Augustin, il fut un prédicateur infatigable, à la parole simple, brève et concrète.
Antienne d’ouverture : Ps 83, 10
Dieu, notre bouclier, regarde: vois le visage de ton Christ. Un jour passé dans ta maison en vaut pour moi plus que mille.
Prière d’ouverture
Pour ceux qui t’aiment, Seigneur, tu as préparé des biens que l’œil ne peut voir. Répands en nos cœurs la ferveur de ta charité, afin que t’aimant en toute chose et par-dessus tout, nous obtenions de toi l’héritage promis qui surpasse tout désir. Par Jésus Christ.
1ère lecture : 1Th 2, 1-8
Frères, vous le savez bien vous-mêmes, notre venue chez vous n’a pas été inutile. Nous venions de souffrir et d’être outragés à Philippes, comme vous le savez ; nous avons cependant trouvé en notre Dieu pleine assurance pour vous annoncer, au prix de grandes luttes, l’Évangile de Dieu. Et quand nous vous exhortions, ce n’était pas avec des doctrines fausses, ni des motifs impurs, ni par ruse. En effet, pour nous confier l’Évangile, Dieu a éprouvé notre valeur, de sorte que nous parlons, non pas pour plaire aux hommes, mais à Dieu, lui qui met nos cœurs à l’épreuve. Jamais, nous n’avons eu un mot de flatterie, vous le savez, jamais de motifs intéressés, Dieu en est témoin ; jamais nous n’avons recherché la gloire qui vient des hommes, ni auprès de vous ni auprès d’autres personnes. Alors que nous aurions pu nous imposer en qualité d’apôtres du Christ, au contraire, nous avons été pleins de douceur avec vous, comme une mère qui entoure de soins ses nourrissons. Ayant pour vous une telle affection, nous aurions voulu vous donner non seulement l’Évangile de Dieu, mais jusqu’à nos propres vies, car vous nous étiez devenus très chers.
Psaume : 138, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12
R/ O Seigneur tu me sondes et me connais
Où donc aller, loin de ton souffle? Où m’enfuir, loin de ta face ? Je gravis les cieux : tu es là ; je descends chez les morts: te voici.
Que je marche ou me repose, tu le vois, tous mes chemins te sont familiers. Avant qu’un mot ne parvienne à mes lèvres, déjà, Seigneur, tu le sais.
Tu me devances et me poursuis, tu m’enserres, tu as mis la main sur moi. Savoir prodigieux qui me dépasse, hauteur que je ne puis atteindre !
Acclamation
Alléluia. Alléluia.
Elle est vivante, énergique, la parole de Dieu ; elle juge des intentions et des pensées du cœur. Alléluia. (cf. He 4, 12)
Évangile : Mt 23, 23-26
En ce temps-là, Jésus disait : « Malheureux êtes-vous, scribes et pharisiens hypocrites, parce que vous payez la dîme sur la menthe, le fenouil et le cumin, mais vous avez négligé ce qui est le plus important dans la Loi : la justice, la miséricorde et la fidélité. Voilà ce qu’il fallait pratiquer sans négliger le reste. Guides aveugles ! Vous filtrez le moucheron, et vous avalez le chameau ! Malheureux êtes-vous, scribes et pharisiens hypocrites, parce que vous purifiez l’extérieur de la coupe et de l’assiette, mais l’intérieur est rempli de cupidité et d’intempérance ! Pharisien aveugle, purifie d’abord l’intérieur de la coupe, afin que l’extérieur aussi devienne pur. »
Prière sur les offrandes
Accepte, Seigneur notre Dieu, ce que nous présentons pour cette eucharistie où s’accomplit un admirable échange. En offrant ce que tu nous as donné, puissions-nous te recevoir toi-même. Par Jésus.
Antienne de communion : Ps 129, 7
Auprès du Seigneur est la grâce, l’abondance du rachat.
Prière après la communion
Par cette eucharistie, Seigneur, tu nous as unis davantage au Christ, et nous te supplions encore. Accorde-nous de lui ressembler sur la terre et de partager sa gloire dans le ciel. Lui qui.
Méditation
Les scribes et les pharisiens sont habiletés à enseigner et interpréter la loi. Ils en sont experts dans l’enseignement mais inaptes dans l’observance. Voilà un autre accent de l’hypocrisie : l’opposition entre l’enseignement donné et la vie de celui qui enseigne. Le témoignage de vie rend l’enseignement efficace et peut le transmettre sans user de la parole. Aujourd’hui nous donnons de l’importance aux paroles, par elles nous faisons rêver mais les actes que nous posons dégagent un mauvais parfum qui n’honorent pas le Christ. C’est cela être malheureux.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 24, 2025 | Agenda Biblique
Saint Joseph Calasanz
Psautier: I
Vert/Blanc
Joseph Calasanz (1556-1648) se voua au service des enfants pauvres. Né en Aragon, il fonda à Rome la congrégation des Clercs réguliers des Écoles pies. Mais sa charité fut mise à l’épreuve par les persécuteurs qui aboutirent, de son vivant, à la suppression de son œuvre par le pape Innocent X. En 1656, l’œuvre de Joseph Calasanz prenait un nouveau départ. Le pape Pie XII devait le proclamer patron des écoles populaires.
Antienne d’ouverture : Ps 83, 10
Dieu, notre bouclier, regarde: vois le visage de ton Christ. Un jour passé dans ta maison en vaut pour moi plus que mille.
Prière d’ouverture
Pour ceux qui t’aiment, Seigneur, tu as préparé des biens que l’œil ne peut voir. Répands en nos cœurs la ferveur de ta charité, afin que t’aimant en toute chose et par-dessus tout, nous obtenions de toi l’héritage promis qui surpasse tout désir. Par Jésus Christ.
1ère lecture : 1 Th 1, 1-5.8b-10
Paul, Sylvain et Timothée, à l’Église de Thessalonique qui est en Dieu le Père et dans le Seigneur Jésus Christ. À vous, la grâce et la paix. À tout moment, nous rendons grâce à Dieu au sujet de vous tous, en faisant mémoire de vous dans nos prières. Sans cesse, nous nous souvenons que votre foi est active, que votre charité se donne de la peine, que votre espérance tient bon en notre Seigneur Jésus Christ, en présence de Dieu notre Père. Nous le savons, frères bien-aimés de Dieu, vous avez été choisis par lui. En effet, notre annonce de l’Évangile n’a pas été, chez vous, simple parole, mais puissance, action de l’Esprit Saint, pleine certitude : vous savez comment nous nous sommes comportés chez vous pour votre bien. La nouvelle de votre foi en Dieu s’est si bien répandue partout que nous n’avons pas besoin d’en parler. En effet, les gens racontent, à notre sujet, l’accueil que nous avons reçu chez vous ; ils disent comment vous vous êtes convertis à Dieu en vous détournant des idoles, afin de servir le Dieu vivant et véritable, et afin d’attendre des cieux son Fils qu’il a ressuscité d’entre les morts, Jésus, qui nous délivre de la colère qui vient.
Psaume : 149, 1-2, 3-4, 5-6a.9b
R/ Le Seigneur aime son peuple.
Chantez au Seigneur un chant nouveau, louez-le dans l’assemblée de ses fidèles ! En Israël, joie pour son créateur ; dans Sion, allégresse pour son Roi!
Dansez à la louange de son nom, jouez pour lui, tambourins et cithares ! Car le Seigneur aime son peuple, il donne aux humbles l’éclat de la victoire.
Que les fidèles exultent, glorieux, criant leur joie à l’heure du triomphe. Qu’ils proclament les éloges de Dieu, c’est la fierté de ses fidèles.
Acclamation
Alléluia. Alléluia. Mes brebis écoutent ma voix, dit le Seigneur ; moi, je les connais, et elles me suivent. Alléluia.
Évangile : Mt 23, 13-22
En ce temps-là, Jésus disait : « Malheureux êtes-vous, scribes et pharisiens hypocrites, parce que vous fermez à clé le royaume des Cieux devant les hommes ; vous-mêmes, en effet, n’y entrez pas, et vous ne laissez pas entrer ceux qui veulent entrer ! Malheureux êtes-vous, scribes et pharisiens hypocrites, parce que vous parcourez la mer et la terre pour faire un seul converti, et quand c’est arrivé, vous faites de lui un homme voué à la géhenne, deux fois pire que vous ! Malheureux êtes-vous, guides aveugles, vous qui dites : “Si l’on fait un serment par le Sanctuaire, il est nul ; mais si l’on fait un serment par l’or du Sanctuaire, on doit s’en acquitter.” Insensés et aveugles ! Qu’est-ce qui est le plus important : l’or ? ou bien le Sanctuaire qui consacre cet or ? Vous dites encore : “Si l’on fait un serment par l’autel, il est nul ; mais si l’on fait un serment par l’offrande posée sur l’autel, on doit s’en acquitter. Aveugles ! Qu’est-ce qui est le plus important : l’offrande ? ou bien l’autel qui consacre cette offrande ? Celui donc qui fait un serment par l’autel fait un serment par l’autel et par tout ce qui est posé dessus ; celui qui fait un serment par le Sanctuaire fait un serment par le Sanctuaire et par Celui qui l’habite ; et celui qui fait un serment par le ciel fait un serment par le trône de Dieu et par Celui qui siège sur ce trône. »
Prière sur les offrandes
Accepte, Seigneur notre Dieu, ce que nous présentons pour cette eucharistie où s’accomplit un admirable échange. En offrant ce que tu nous as donné, puissions-nous te recevoir toi-même. Par Jésus.
Antienne de communion : Ps 129, 7
Auprès du Seigneur est la grâce, l’abondance du rachat.
Prière après la communion
Par cette eucharistie, Seigneur, tu nous as unis davantage au Christ, et nous te supplions encore. Accorde-nous de lui ressembler sur la terre et de partager sa gloire dans le ciel. Lui qui.
Méditation
Le monde s’identifie généralement aux leaders. Ils se doivent par conséquent d’être des personnes exemplaires. Cette exemplarité exige d’être vrai et compatissant envers ceux dont ils ont la charge. Montrer toujours l’exemple par les actions et les paroles. Les intérêts peuvent pervertir l’exemplarité du leader de manière à créer un désaccord entre sa vie, sa prédication et les Écritures.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 24, 2025 | Evangelium
Saint Joseph of Calasanz (1557 – 1648)
Psalter: Week I
Green/White
He was born in Aragón, received an excellent education and was ordained priest. After working in his own country for some time he went to Rome, where he worked for the education of the poor and founded a religious congregation for that purpose. His idea was that every child should receive an education. He died in Rome in 1648.
Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Ps 85: 1-3
Turn your ear, O Lord, and answer me; save the servant who trusts in you, my God. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I cry to you all the day long.
Collect
O God, who cause the minds of the faithful to unite in a single purpose, grant your people to love what you command and to desire what you promise, that, amid the uncertainties of this world,
our hearts may be fixed on that place where true gladness is found. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
First reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 8-10
From Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, to the Church in Thessalonika which is in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ; wishing you grace and peace. We always mention you in our prayers and thank God for you all, and constantly remember before God our Father how you have shown your faith in action, worked for love and persevered through hope, in our Lord Jesus Christ. We know, brothers, that God loves you and that you have been chosen, because when we brought the Good News to you, it came to you not only as words, but as power and as the Holy Spirit and as utter conviction. And you observed the sort of life we lived when we were with you, which was for your instruction, since it was from you that the word of the Lord started to spread – and not only throughout Macedonia and Achaia, for the news of your faith in God has spread everywhere. We do not need to tell other people about it: other people tell us how we started the work among you, how you broke with idolatry when you were converted to God and became servants of the real, living God; and how you are now waiting for Jesus, his Son, whom he raised from the dead, to come from heaven to save us from the retribution which is coming.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 149:1-6, 9
R/ The Lord takes delight in his people.
Sing a new song to the Lord, his praise in the assembly of the faithful. Let Israel rejoice in its Maker, let Zion’s sons exult in their king.
Let them praise his name with dancing and make music with timbrel and harp. For the Lord takes delight in his people. He crowns the poor with salvation.
Let the faithful rejoice in their glory, shout for joy and take their rest. Let the praise of God be on their lips: this honour is for all his faithful.
Gospel Acclamation: Jn 17:17
Alleluia, alleluia! Your word is truth, O Lord: consecrate us in the truth. Alleluia!
Gospel: Matthew 23:13-22
Jesus said: ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who shut up the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces, neither going in yourselves nor allowing others to go in who want to. ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who travel over sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when you have him you make him twice as fit for hell as you are. ‘Alas for you, blind guides! You who say, “If a man swears by the Temple, it has no force; but if a man swears by the gold of the Temple, he is bound.” Fools and blind! For which is of greater worth, the gold or the Temple that makes the gold sacred? Or else, “If a man swears by the altar it has no force; but if a man swears by the offering that is on the altar, he is bound.” You blind men! For which is of greater worth, the offering or the altar that makes the offering sacred? Therefore, when a man swears by the altar he is swearing by that and by everything on it. And when a man swears by the Temple he is swearing by that and by the One who dwells in it. And when a man swears by heaven he is swearing by the throne of God and by the One who is seated there.’
Prayer over the Offerings
O Lord, who gained for yourself a people by adoption through the one sacrifice offered once for all, bestow graciously on us, we pray, the gifts of unity and peace in your Church. Through Christ our Lord.
Communion Antiphon: Cf. Ps 103: 13-15
The earth is replete with the fruits of your work, O Lord; you bring forth bread from the earth and wine to cheer the heart.
Prayer after Communion
Complete within us, O Lord, we pray, the healing work of your mercy and graciously perfect and sustain us, so that in all things we may please you. Through Christ our Lord.
Meditation
Jesus issues a stern rebuke to the religious leaders because they fail to listen to God’s word, and are misleading the people they are supposed to teach and lead in the ways of God. He criticises their misguided ways and provides examples to illustrate their errors. In their zeal to win converts, the religious leaders impose unnecessary and burdensome rules which obscure the more important matters of religion, such as the love of God and neighbour. They forget that God hears every word we utter and sees the heart’s intention, even before we speak or act. The scribes and Pharisees prefer their interpretation of religion over God’s intended principles. Their failure as religious leaders stem from their inability to listen and understand God’s word. Their pride and prejudice have closed the door of their hearts and minds to God’s understanding of His kingdom. The lesson is to avoid shutting the door of God’s kingdom in our lives by remaining open to Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev. 17:14; 19:16). Jesus speaks life, love, truth, freedom, hope, and pardon. Embracing His teachings allows Him to dwell with us and bring forth His Kingdom in our lives.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 23, 2025 | Agenda Biblique
21eme dimanche du temps ordinaire
Saint barthelemy, apotre
Psautier: I
Blanc
Antienne d’ouverture : Psaume 85, 1-3
Écoute, Seigneur, réponds-moi. Sauve, ô mon Dieu, ton serviteur qui compte sur toi. Prends pitié de moi, Seigneur, toi que j’appelle tout le jour.
Prière d’ouverture
Dieu qui peux mettre au cœur de tes fidèles un unique désir, donne à ton peuple d’aimer ce que tu commandes et d’attendre ce que tu promets; Pour qu’au milieu des changements de ce monde, nos cœurs s’établissent fermement là où se trouvent les vraies joies. Par Jésus Christ.
1ère lecture : Isaïe 66, 18-21
Ainsi parle le Seigneur : connaissant leurs actions et leurs pensées, moi, je viens rassembler toutes les nations, de toute langue. Elles viendront et verront ma gloire : je mettrai chez elles un signe ! Et, du milieu d’elles, j’enverrai des rescapés vers les nations les plus éloignées, vers les îles lointaines qui n’ont rien entendu de ma renommée, qui n’ont pas vu ma gloire ; ma gloire, ces rescapés l’annonceront parmi les nations. Et, de toutes les nations, ils ramèneront tous vos frères, en offrande au Seigneur, sur des chevaux et des chariots, en litière, à dos de mulets et de dromadaires, jusqu’à ma montagne sainte, à Jérusalem, – dit le Seigneur. On les portera comme l’offrande qu’apportent les fils d’Israël, dans des vases purs, à la maison du Seigneur. Je prendrai même des prêtres et des lévites parmi eux, – dit le Seigneur.
Psaume 116 (117), 1, 2
R/ Allez dans le monde entier. Proclamez l’Évangile. ou :Alléluia! (Mc 16, 15)
Louez le Seigneur, tous les peuples ; fêtez-le, tous les pays !
Son amour envers nous s’est montré le plus fort ; éternelle est la fidélité du Seigneur !
2ème lecture : Hébreux 12, 5-7.11-13
Frères, vous avez oublié cette parole de réconfort, qui vous est adressée comme à des fils : Mon fils, ne néglige pas les leçons du Seigneur, ne te décourage pas quand il te fait des reproches. Quand le Seigneur aime quelqu’un, il lui donne de bonnes leçons ; il corrige tous ceux qu’il accueille comme ses fils. Ce que vous endurez est une leçon. Dieu se comporte envers vous comme envers des fils ; et quel est le fils auquel son père ne donne pas des leçons ? Quand on vient de recevoir une leçon, on n’éprouve pas de la joie mais plutôt de la tristesse. Mais plus tard, quand on s’est repris grâce à la leçon, celle-ci produit un fruit de paix et de justice. C’est pourquoi, redressez les mains inertes et les genoux qui fléchissent, et rendez droits pour vos pieds les sentiers tortueux. Ainsi, celui qui boite ne se fera pas d’entorse ; bien plus, il sera guéri.
Acclamation
Alléluia. Alléluia! Moi, je suis le Chemin, la Vérité et la Vie, dit le Seigneur; personne ne va vers le Père sans passer par moi. Alléluia! (Jn 14, 6)
Évangile : Luc 13, 22-30
En ce temps-là, tandis qu’il faisait route vers Jérusalem, Jésus traversait villes et villages en enseignant. Quelqu’un lui demanda : « Seigneur, n’y a-t-il que peu de gens qui soient sauvés ? » Jésus leur dit : « Efforcez-vous d’entrer par la porte étroite, car, je vous le déclare, beaucoup chercheront à entrer et n’y parviendront pas. Lorsque le maître de maison se sera levé pour fermer la porte, si vous, du dehors, vous vous mettez à frapper à la porte, en disant : ‘Seigneur, ouvre-nous’, il vous répondra : ‘Je ne sais pas d’où vous êtes.’ Alors vous vous mettrez à dire : ‘Nous avons mangé et bu en ta présence, et tu as enseigné sur nos places.’ Il vous répondra : ‘Je ne sais pas d’où vous êtes. Éloignez-vous de moi, vous tous qui commettez l’injustice.’ Là, il y aura des pleurs et des grincements de dents, quand vous verrez Abraham, Isaac et Jacob, et tous les prophètes dans le royaume de Dieu, et que vous-mêmes, vous serez jetés dehors. Alors on viendra de l’orient et de l’occident, du nord et du midi, prendre place au festin dans le royaume de Dieu. Oui, il y a des derniers qui seront premiers, et des premiers qui seront derniers. »
Prière sur les offrandes
Par l’unique sacrifice de la Croix, tu t’es donné, Père très bon, un peuple de fils; Accorde-nous, dans ton Église, la grâce de l’unité et de la paix. Par Jésus.
Antienne de communion : Ps 103, 13-15
Seigneur, tu as créé de quoi rassasier le monde entier: tu fais produire à la terre le pain, et le vin qui réjouit le cœur des hommes.
Prière après la communion
Que ta miséricorde, Seigneur, agisse en nous et nous guérisse entièrement; Transforme-nous, par ta grâce, et rends-nous si généreux que nous puissions te plaire en toute chose. Par Jésus.
Méditation
Travailler pour entrer dans le royaume des cieux est ce qui est le plus important dans la vie de foi. Il n’est pas question de céder au découragement parce que beaucoup mesurent l’effort à faire, beaucoup se confrontent à des difficultés et jettent l’éponge. Efforcez-vous d’entrer par la porte étroite, car, je vous le déclare, beaucoup chercheront à entrer et n’y parviendront pas. C’est donc par l’effort que l’on parvient à contempler le visage de Dieu, et non de vivre n’importe comment et espérer d’accéder à Lui.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 23, 2025 | Evangelium
21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Saint Bartholomew, Apostle
Psalter: Week I
White
Entrance Antiphon : Cf. Ps 85: 1-3
Turn your ear, O Lord, and answer me; save the servant who trusts in you, my God. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I cry to you all the day long.
Collect
O God, who cause the minds of the faithful to unite in a single purpose, grant your people to love what you command and to desire what you promise, that, amid the uncertainties of this world, our hearts may be fixed on that place where true gladness is found. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
First reading : Isaiah 66:18-21
The Lord says this: I am coming to gather the nations of every language. They shall come to witness my glory. I will give them a sign and send some of their survivors to the nations: to Tarshish, Put, Lud, Moshech, Rosh, Tubal, and Javan, to the distant islands that have never heard of me or seen my glory. They will proclaim my glory to the nations. As an offering to the Lord they will bring all your brothers, on horses, in chariots, in litters, on mules, on dromedaries, from all the nations to my holy mountain in Jerusalem, says the Lord, like Israelites bringing oblations in clean vessels to the Temple of the Lord. And of some of them I will make priests and Levites, says the Lord.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 116(117)
R/ Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News.
O praise the Lord, all you nations, acclaim him all you peoples!
Strong is his love for us; he is faithful for ever.
Second reading : Hebrews 12:5-7,11-13
Have you forgotten that encouraging text in which you are addressed as sons? My son, when the Lord corrects you, do not treat it lightly; but do not get discouraged when he reprimands you. For the Lord trains the ones that he loves and he punishes all those that he acknowledges as his sons. Suffering is part of your training; God is treating you as his sons. Has there ever been any son whose father did not train him? Of course, any punishment is most painful at the time, and far from pleasant; but later, in those on whom it has been used, it bears fruit in peace and goodness. So hold up your limp arms and steady your trembling knees and smooth out the path you tread; then the injured limb will not be wrenched, it will grow strong again.
Gospel Acclamation : Jn14:23
Alleluia, alleluia! If anyone loves me he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we shall come to him. Alleluia!
Gospel : Luke 13:22-30
Through towns and villages Jesus went teaching, making his way to Jerusalem. Someone said to him, ‘Sir, will there be only a few saved?’ He said to them, ‘Try your best to enter by the narrow door, because, I tell you, many will try to enter and will not succeed. ‘Once the master of the house has got up and locked the door, you may find yourself knocking on the door, saying, “Lord, open to us” but he will answer, “I do not know where you come from.” Then you will find yourself saying, “We once ate and drank in your company; you taught in our streets” but he will reply, “I do not know where you come from. Away from me, all you wicked men!” ‘Then there will be weeping and grinding of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves turned outside. And men from east and west, from north and south, will come to take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. ‘Yes, there are those now last who will be first, and those now first who will be last.’
Prayer over the Offerings
O Lord, who gained for yourself a people by adoption through the one sacrifice offered once for all, bestow graciously on us, we pray, the gifts of unity and peace in your Church. Through Christ our Lord.
Communion Antiphon : Cf. Ps 103: 13-15
The earth is replete with the fruits of your work, O Lord; you bring forth bread from the earth and wine to cheer the heart.
Prayer after Communion
Complete within us, O Lord, we pray, the healing work of your mercy and graciously perfect and sustain us, so that in all things we may please you. Through Christ our Lord.
Meditation
The image of a door in the context of the Kingdom of God conveys that Jesus is the gateway to enter this divine realm. It signifies that God sent Jesus Christ to save us from our sins and help us enter the narrow door to be with God. The notion of the narrow door emphasises that entering this Kingdom requires endurance and struggles that temptations bring. Sometimes we find it hard to live, we struggle all the time. Life is often challenging, filled with moments of much agony, and this is where temptations enter. Jesus, being the only way through the narrow door, becomes our guide through these struggles.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 22, 2025 | Evangelium
Saint Rose of Lima (1586 – 1617)
Psalter: Week IV
Green
She was born in Lima, in Peru. She lived a life of selflessness and devotion from an early age. She refused to marry, and became a Dominican tertiary at the age of 20. Her asceticism and her intense spiritual experiences excited the criticism of her friends and family and the suspicion of the Church authorities.
Entrance Antiphon: Ps 83: 10-11
Turn your eyes, O God, our shield; and look on the face of your anointed one; one day within your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
Collect
O God, who have prepared for those who love you good things which no eye can see, fill our hearts, we pray, with the warmth of your love, so that, loving you in all things and above all things, we may attain your promises, which surpass every human desire. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
First reading: Ruth 2:1-3,8-11,4:13-17
Naomi had a kinsman on her husband’s side, well-to-do and of Elimelech’s clan. His name was Boaz. Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, ‘Let me go into the fields and glean among the ears of corn in the footsteps of some man who will look on me with favour.’ And she said to her, ‘Go, my daughter.’ So she set out and went to glean in the fields after the reapers. And it chanced that she came to that part of the fields which belonged to Boaz of Elimelech’s clan. Boaz said to Ruth, ‘Listen, my daughter, and understand this. You are not to glean in any other field, do not leave here but stay with my servants. Keep your eyes on whatever part of the field they are reaping and follow behind. I have ordered my servants not to molest you. And if you are thirsty, go to the pitchers and drink what the servants have drawn.’ Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground. And she said to him, ‘How have I so earned your favour that you take notice of me, even though I am a foreigner?’ And Boaz answered her, I have been told all you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband’s death, and how you left your own father and mother and the land where you were born to come among a people whom you knew nothing about before you came here.’ So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. And when they came together, the Lord made her conceive and she bore a son. And the women said to Naomi, ‘Blessed be the Lord who has not left the dead man without next of kin this day to perpetuate his name in Israel. The child will be a comfort to you and the prop of your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you and is more to you than seven sons has given him birth.’ And Naomi took the child to her own bosom and she became his nurse. And the women of the neighbourhood gave him a name. ‘A son has been born for Naomi’ they said; and they named him Obed. This was the father of David’s father, Jesse.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 127(128):1-5
R/ Indeed thus shall be blessed the man who fears the Lord.
O blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways! By the labour of your hands you shall eat. You will be happy and prosper.
Your wife will be like a fruitful vine in the heart of your house; your children like shoots of the olive, around your table.
Indeed thus shall be blessed the man who fears the Lord. May the Lord bless you from Zion all the days of your life!
Gospel Acclamation: Ps118:36,29
Alleluia, alleluia! Bend my heart to your will, O Lord, and teach me your law. Alleluia!
Gospel: Matthew 23:1-12
Addressing the people and his disciples Jesus said, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees occupy the chair of Moses. You must therefore do what they tell you and listen to what they say; but do not be guided by what they do: since they do not practise what they preach. They tie up heavy burdens and lay them on men’s shoulders, but will they lift a finger to move them? Not they! Everything they do is done to attract attention, like wearing broader phylacteries and longer tassels, like wanting to take the place of honour at banquets and the front seats in the synagogues, being greeted obsequiously in the market squares and having people call them Rabbi. ‘You, however, must not allow yourselves to be called Rabbi, since you have only one master, and you are all brothers. You must call no one on earth your father, since you have only one Father, and he is in heaven. Nor must you allow yourselves to be called teachers, for you have only one Teacher, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant. Anyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and anyone who humbles himself will be exalted.’
Prayer over the Offerings
Receive our oblation, O Lord, by which is brought about a glorious exchange, that, by offering what you have given, we may merit to receive your very self. Through Christ our Lord.
Communion Antiphon: Ps 129: 7
With the Lord there is mercy; in him is plentiful redemption.
Prayer after Communion
Made partakers of Christ through these Sacraments, we humbly implore your mercy, Lord, that, conformed to his image on earth, we may merit also to be his coheirs in heaven. Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Meditation
The gospel presents three crucial points that call for profound reflection in our lives. First, when Jesus mentions that “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses,” He is highlighting an attitude that still resonates with us today. Secondly, Jesus warns against the scribes saying, “They love places of honour at banquets, seats of honour in synagogues, greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation Rabbi.” This points to the danger of falling into a trap of popularity, power, fortune, and other forms of achievement. This simply means that people are blinded/clouded by praises which, in the end, make them lose their sense of identity and become self-righteous. Thirdly, Jesus cautions his disciples, “As for you, do not be called Rabbi. You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers.” He is warning His disciples and the religious leaders about the temptation to seek honours and titles that draw attention to oneself instead of God and His word. This is a call to serve people with humility and sincerity rather than with pride and self-promotion. Let our words be the living testimonies of Christ: humility, poverty, patience, and obedience.
by Norbert Doulanni | Aug 22, 2025 | Agenda Biblique
Saint rose de lima
BVM
Psautier: IV
Vert
La patronne de l’Amérique du Sud est une jeune Péruvienne d’origine espagnole, morte à trente et un ans. Isabelle d’Oliva (1586-1617), surnommée Rose à cause de son teint, prit à vingt ans l’habit de tertiaire dominicaine, comme sainte Catherine de Sienne qu’elle admirait. Elle habita alors une petite cellule dans le jardin de ses parents et y vécut dans la mortification et de dures épreuves intérieures.
Antienne d’ouverture : Ps 83, 10
Dieu, notre bouclier, regarde: vois le visage de ton Christ. Un jour passé dans ta maison en vaut pour moi plus que mille.
Prière d’ouverture
Pour ceux qui t’aiment, Seigneur, tu as préparé des biens que l’œil ne peut voir. Répands en nos cœurs la ferveur de ta charité, afin que t’aimant en toute chose et par-dessus tout, nous obtenions de toi l’héritage promis qui surpasse tout désir. Par Jésus Christ.
1ère lecture : Rt 2, 1-3.8-11 ; 4, 13-17
Noémi avait un parent du côté de son mari Élimélek ; c’était un riche propriétaire du même clan ; il s’appelait Booz. Ruth la Moabite dit à Noémi : « Laisse-moi aller glaner dans les champs, derrière celui aux yeux de qui je trouverai grâce. » Elle lui répondit : « Va, ma fille. » Ruth partit donc glaner dans les champs derrière les moissonneurs. Elle se trouva par bonheur dans la parcelle d’un champ appartenant à Booz, du clan d’Élimélek. Booz dit à Ruth: « Tu m’entends bien, n’est-ce pas, ma fille ? Ne va pas glaner dans un autre champ. Ne t’éloigne pas de celui-ci, mais attache-toi aux pas de mes servantes. Regarde dans quel champ on moissonne, et suis-les. N’ai-je pas interdit aux serviteurs de te molester ? Si tu as soif, va boire aux cruches ce que les serviteurs auront puisé. » Alors Ruth se prosterna face contre terre et lui dit : « Pourquoi ai-je trouvé grâce à tes yeux, pourquoi t’intéresser à moi, moi qui suis une étrangère ? » Booz lui répondit : « On m’a dit et répété tout ce que tu as fait pour ta belle-mère après la mort de ton mari, comment tu as quitté ton père, ta mère et le pays de ta parenté, pour te rendre chez un peuple que tu n’avais jamais connu de ta vie. » Booz prit Ruth comme épouse, elle devint sa femme et il s’unit à elle. Le Seigneur lui accorda de concevoir, et elle enfanta un fils. Les femmes de Bethléem dirent à Noémi: « Béni soit le Seigneur qui aujourd’hui ne t’a pas laissée sans quelqu’un pour te racheter ! Que son nom soit célébré en Israël ! Cet enfant te fera revivre, il sera l’appui de ta vieillesse : il est né de ta belle-fille qui t’aime, et qui vaut mieux pour toi que sept fils. » Noémi prit l’enfant, le mit sur son sein, et se chargea de l’élever. Les voisines lui donnèrent son nom. Elles disaient : « Il est né un fils à Noémi. » Et elles le nommèrent Obed. Ce fut le père de Jessé, qui fut le père de David.
Psaume : 127 (128), 1-2, 3, 4-5
R/ Voilà comment sera béni l’homme qui craint le Seigneur. (Ps 127, 4)
Heureux qui craint le Seigneur et marche selon ses voies ! Tu te nourriras du travail de tes mains : Heureux es-tu ! À toi, le bonheur !
Ta femme sera dans ta maison comme une vigne généreuse, et tes fils, autour de la table, comme des plants d’olivier.
Voilà comment sera béni l’homme qui craint le Seigneur. De Sion, que le Seigneur te bénisse ! Tu verras le bonheur de Jérusalem tous les jours de ta vie.
Acclamation
Alléluia. Alléluia. Vous n’avez qu’un seul Père, celui qui est aux cieux ; vous n’avez qu’un seul maître, le Christ. Alléluia. (cf. Mt 23, 9b.10b)
Évangile : Mt 23, 1-12
En ce temps-là, Jésus s’adressa aux foules et à ses disciples, et il déclara : « Les scribes et les pharisiens enseignent dans la chaire de Moïse. Donc, tout ce qu’ils peuvent vous dire, faites-le et observez-le. Mais n’agissez pas d’après leurs actes, car ils disent et ne font pas. Ils attachent de pesants fardeaux, difficiles à porter, et ils en chargent les épaules des gens ; mais eux-mêmes ne veulent pas les remuer du doigt. Toutes leurs actions, ils les font pour être remarqués des gens : ils élargissent leurs phylactères et rallongent leurs franges; ils aiment les places d’honneur dans les dîners, les sièges d’honneur dans les synagogues et les salutations sur les places publiques; ils aiment recevoir des gens le titre de Rabbi. Pour vous, ne vous faites pas donner le titre de Rabbi, car vous n’avez qu’un seul maître pour vous enseigner, et vous êtes tous frères. Ne donnez à personne sur terre le nom de père, car vous n’avez qu’un seul Père, celui qui est aux cieux. Ne vous faites pas non plus donner le titre de maîtres, car vous n’avez qu’un seul maître, le Christ. Le plus grand parmi vous sera votre serviteur. Qui s’élèvera sera abaissé, qui s’abaissera sera élevé. »
Prière sur les offrandes
Accepte, Seigneur notre Dieu, ce que nous présentons pour cette eucharistie où s’accomplit un admirable échange. En offrant ce que tu nous as donné, puissions-nous te recevoir toi-même. Par Jésus.
Antienne de communion : Ps 129, 7
Auprès du Seigneur est la grâce, l’abondance du rachat.
Prière après la communion
Par cette eucharistie, Seigneur, tu nous as unis davantage au Christ, et nous te supplions encore. Accorde-nous de lui ressembler sur la terre et de partager sa gloire dans le ciel. Lui qui.
Méditation
Ce qui rend l’enseignement efficace c’est le fait que l’enseignant l’accompagne de son témoignage de vie. Cependant cela n’est pas toujours le cas. Beaucoup enseignent mais leur mode de vie en donne un contre témoignage. Dès lors que faut il faire ? Rejeter l’enseignement qui est pourtant de Dieu ?La réponse c’est non car il nous dit : « tout ce qu’ils peuvent vous dire, faites-le et observez-le. Mais n’agissez pas d’après leurs actes, car ils disent et ne font pas ». Le salut consiste à faire la volonté de Dieu et non celle d’un homme.
