Good afternoon,
This week’s readings offer three powerful lessons for our journey of faith. First, God is an impartial judge who hears the cries of the oppressed, reminding us to approach Him with humility rather than pride. In Luke’s gospel, we see that humility—not self-righteousness—is at the heart of true prayer. When we come before God honestly, acknowledging our need for His mercy, we open ourselves to His compassion and forgiveness.
Second, as St Paul encourages Timothy, perseverance and trust are essential, especially in times of difficulty. Paul’s words, “I have fought the good fight, I have run the race,” are a testament to a faith that is alive and committed. His example inspires us to remain steadfast, trusting that God sees and rewards sincere hearts.
Finally, Luke’s parable reminds us that faith is not just about following rules or appearing righteous. Instead, it is about recognising our humility before God and one another and allowing that humility to shape our actions. Serving others, caring for those in need, and being honest with ourselves deepens our reliance on God and strengthens our faith. As St James wrote, “Faith without good works is dead.”
How can we live out these lessons in our daily lives? By seeking humility, trusting in God’s justice, and persevering in faith, we allow our character as followers of Jesus to be strengthened and our relationship with God to deepen.
Have a good week – God go with you,
Paul
This speech by Titan’s League player Kieran Foran, winner of the Ken Stephen Medal echo’s and adds to the message of our readings today. Worth a listen! It reinforces our need for connection and to realise we all can connect to other. That is what we are trying to do and be in Passionist Family Groups. Click on the link below.
Scripture reflection: Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, 26 October 2025.
God, be merciful to me, a sinner
Almighty ever-living God, increase our faith, hope and charity, and make us love what you command, so that we may merit what you promise.
LECTIONARY READINGS
First reading: Ecclesiasticus 35:12-14, 16-19
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 32(33):2-3, 17-19, 23
Second reading: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
Gospel: Luke 18:9-14
Link to readings – Click here
As we approach the end of the Church year, we are reminded that God’s way is one of humility, equality and perseverance in the pursuit of love. The First Reading emphasises the Lord’s focus on the needs of the poor and the marginalised. God calls us to be persistent in our prayer and uncompromising in our quest for justice. This theme is continued in the Psalm, which reminds us that the Lord always hears our prayers of pain and distress, and responds to petitions that seek to do good in the world.
The letter to Timothy reflects on the writer’s own ministry as a lesson to other followers of Christ (Second Reading). He encourages us to stand strong in the face of suffering, criticism and rejection, and to remain fixed on what is right and loving in the eyes of the Lord.
Jesus (Gospel) offers a sobering illustration of the difference between what we in society uphold as noble, righteous and honourable, and the values of the Lord. God always sees through status and superficial expressions of faith, and reminds us that we are all loved sinners.
As Pilgrims of Hope in this Jubilee year, we renew our commitment to sharing God’s compassion and care for all. We strive for peace and justice in this world by reflecting on our own behaviour. We are reminded that we cannot do this on our own, but must constantly seek the Lord’s loving guidance and strength.
Formation: As stated in previous newsletter: “as part of this Jubilee Year- Paul will be offering to visit parishes and or regions to conduct a mini formation using two talks and discussion/sharing opportunities – one on ‘Belonging’ and the “On Being Church – Why community matters?”.
If you or your community or region would like a presentation please let Paul know and dates that would suit you”. The sessions thus far have been very well received.
Formation Coming up:
Levin and Otaki on 24th November; Waiting to hear from Lower Hutt
Celebrant: Just advising that earlier this year I was asked if I would be able to be a marriage celebrant for someone I have known for many years. I had been a celebrant but let it lapse. I have now been through the process again and once more I am an authorised Marriage and Civil Celebrant. I am also able to act as a Funeral Celebrant. If there is any way I can support, please let me know: paulus663@gmail.com
or (021) 357 933
Safeguarding: “Working Together for a Safe Church”
A Reminder: Dear Parish and Group Coordinators There has been a little angst re having to sign a Code of Conduct. With Safeguarding there is naturally some hesitance but after the Royal Commission it was put to the Government that there were protocols to be developed and implemented. The Catholic Bishops of New Zealand were also asked to put these into place. So, at the end of the day we are expected to comply with these protocols and to through parishes and groups ensure that we 1. Protect ourselves and 2. Protect the at risk and vulnerable within our communities. There is no blame our accusation toward any community just that we act in a way to keep ourselves and others safe. To this end we protect our Passionist Families, our groups, parishes by ensuring we comply to the requests asked of us. If you have not done so please complete and send a copy of your signed Parish or PFG Code of Conduct to paulus663@gmail and a copy to your Parish Safeguarding person.
Any complaints should be directed through the National Office of Professional Standards (NOPS) or report directly to the New Zealand Police or Oranga Tamariki.
Phone: 03 365 1993 or 0800 114 622
Email: prof.standards@nzcbc.org.nz
www.safeguarding.catholic.org.nz
Reminder: 5 Aims and Goals of Passionist Family Groups. 
- share & celebrate life & faith
- support one another (especially in need)
- reaching out to & include others
- build community/extended family
- show and give example to children
Please remember in your thoughts and prayer:
- Please remember Dee and Peter Costello’s grandson and parents Katelyn and Reuben. The recent news is positive but the prayers will assist.
- Please remember Barry Straight his wife Viv and all the family and extended family.
- Please remember Clare,Daryl Pritchard and family
- Please remember Jocelyn Bryant, Kev and family in your prayer.
- Pease keep Di Buckley in your prayer
- Pat Smith RIP and keep in prayer Maureen and family; Remember Pat Carson; Graeme Matthews; Adrian van de Pas and her son Robert ; Graeme and Margaret Armstrong
- Please remember, Tim Bartells & family, Linda Darbyshire and family in your prayer, Christine Geoghegan’s daughter Kate and extended families, Pauline Prendergast, Robyn Burns (Hill,) Sean and Ann Mulcahy, Dot and Neill Wilson (Invercargill) Paul Davenport, Clair and Ray Hague; Terry Nelson’s family;. Brian and Eleanor McFlynn ; Bryan Davidson; Richard and Sue Gibbs; Martin and Sally van der Wetering; Phil and Anne Drew .
- Keep in mind all those who are struggling with various aspects of mental health;
- Keep people in Gaza and Israel in your prayer along with the people of the people of Ukraine: Keep in prayer the people of Sudan and Syria.
- Pray for peace and sensible and just decisions by leaders across the planet.
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- Your own intentions
Humour:
1. I never thought orthopaedic shoes would really work for me. But I stand
corrected.
2. I wrote a book on how to fall down the stairs. It’s a step by step guide.
3. My son was chewing on electric cords, so I had to ground him. it’s ok though,
he’s doing better and conducting himself properly.
4. An armed man ran into a real estate shop and shouted. Nobody move…..
5. I asked the surgeon if I could administer my own anaesthetic. He said, sure. Go
ahead! Knock yourself out!
6. I got into a fight today with 1,3,5,7 and 9. The odds were really against me.
7. A man walked into a bar with a chequered flag. The barman said “I hope you’re
not going to start anything here”.
8. Overheard at the race track. “Horse racing is very romantic. The horse hugs the
rails; the jockey puts his arms around the horse and you kiss your money
goodbye”.
“We Are a “Family for All”