Vicar Message

We are in the middle of the Shoonoyo Fast - a blessed occasion set apart by the Church to remember and seek the intercession of St Mary. These are the days leading to the Feast of her Dormition on August 15. On this day we remember the historical event when St Mary was taken with body to Heaven. From her life, we have much to learn. There is great power in her intercession. Her compassion is limitless and her humility found favour with God. Being the Mother of God, we have the privilege of calling her our Mother too. Just like a child is confident in confiding everything in mother, we should also feel encouraged to approach her as our mother and speak openly about our problems, weaknesses, and sorrows.
In the early Church, after the Ascension of Jesus Christ, the Apostles drew a lot of strength and encouragement from St Mary. It is believed that on her death, Apostles were miraculously brought to Jerusalem from different parts of the world to attend her funeral.
When confronted with problems, we often look for our near and dear ones for help, comfort and counsel. The previous weeks, as you are aware, I was hospitalized and had to be treated for several days. During this time, it was your prayers and the intercession of our saints that helped me get healed. There are many among us who are passing through trials and tribulations. The days of Fasting can be a good occasion for us to remember them and pray for God’s mercy to strengthen and heal them.

Around us, we are witnessing innumerable instances of destruction. Nations are at war, natural calamities are striking with impunity, and gruesome crimes that shock the collective conscience of society present a sorry tale of degrading human relationships. When nothing is constant in this world, we need to look towards the one who is unceasing, omnipresent, and Almighty. Let the worries of this world not bind us in fear, insecurity and confusion. But let our prayers liberate us from the worldly chains and enable us to look above from where our help comes. We are reminded by God in Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
We also need to pray for our nation and its rulers. This month we commemorate the 78th anniversary of our country’s Independence. We must recall the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters who lived a life of tyranny to win us freedom. Looking at their struggles and the cost at which we earned our freedom, we must act as responsible citizens, working for the betterment of our nation in every sphere.

May God continue to bless our homes and families. May the intercession of St Mary, the Mother of God and all the Saints and Apostles be our stronghold.

In Prayers
Fr. T.J. Johnson