2. Special Character - Week 3, Term 1 2017

Faith fact this week-

14th Dedication of The Dunedin Cathedral 1886

The Diocese of Dunedin was created on 26 November 1869, and the first Bishop, the Right Revd Patrick Moran, DD arrived on 18 February 1871.

The Dedication of the Cathedral means that it is a place set aside which, for a special and sacred purpose. Church’s and chapels are blessed, consecrated and dedicated all in recognition of this purpose. It does not deny that God is everywhere and can be in any space but this offers a special or reserved place for those who wish to commune with God. A Cathedral is the center of the life of the local Church. That is Otago and Southland. The very word "cathedral" in Latin or Greek, means "chair." From the cathedra, the chair or the seat, the Bishop teaches, and guides the people of God, the church. From the cathedral, the church with the bishop's chair, the Bishop oversees and safeguards the life of the Catholic people of a particular diocese. This feast celebrates us as a Diocese and that we have a place set aside under the leadership of our Bishop in which we can celebrate our unity in our relationship with God.

19th Sunday Gospel

Matthew 5:38-48

Concerning Retaliation

In connection with this week's gospel reading Pope Francis in a homily is quoted:-
“Wonderful Counselor. The Gospels tell us how many people came up to Jesus to ask: “Master, what must we do?”  The first thing that Jesus does in response is to propose, to encourage, to motivate.  He keeps telling his disciples to go, to go out.  He urges them to go out and meet others where they really are, not where we think they should be.  Go out, again and again, go out without fear, without hesitation.  Go out and proclaim this joy which is for all the people.”

Homily of Pope Francis Mass at Madison Square Garden, New York Friday 25 September 2015