Letter 13 March 2026 – Paul Traynor

A Word of Reflection for the 4th Sunday of Lent
Given the current political, social, and economic climate, it is easy to feel we are living in dark times. Since COVID, fear, misinformation, unrest, and division have increased, testing even the most open among us. The war in Iran and its aligned countries only deepens this darkness, bringing destruction, hatred, and the demand that others submit to power. Without entering the debate over right and wrong, I share Pope Leo XIV’s view that war is unnecessary and that peace is the more healing response.
The loss of life and devastation caused by bombing brings deep sadness, especially for ordinary people who become pawns of the powerful. Without choice, they are left struggling to find safety, shelter, and food for themselves and their children. Claims of righteousness often only compound fear, loss, and suffering.
This week’s readings present Jesus as light, though that light can feel distant in today’s world. This is where faith calls us to respond. How can I be a light for others? A healing presence? A source of hope and dignity? Each compassionate word and action becomes a light switch, allowing God’s presence to shine through us.
While such acts may seem small, seeking justice and peace illuminates the path for those who feel lost. Fear can blind us and lead us away from our best selves, much like our frustration when we feel unfairly treated – whether in daily life or even in sport.
The blind man in the Gospel reflects this reality. Blind from birth, he was deemed unworthy and cast aside by religious law. Jesus responds not with judgment, but with compassion and justice. When the man is healed, others doubt and question, yet his inner light shines clearly. He knows who Jesus is, and his life is transformed.
We can do the same for one another. Though we may not perform miracles, our willingness to “switch on the light” helps others see what is good within themselves. Through faith, trust, love, and openness, we remove our own blind spots and learn to rely on God and one another, even when the world feels as though it is falling apart.
This Lent, may our conversion come from within—seeking peace; “acting justly, loving tenderly, and walking humbly with our God” (Micah 6:8).
 Have a good week – God go with you,
 Paul

 Scripture reflection: Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare Sunday) Year A, 15 March 2026
 Lord, I believe!

O God, who through your Word reconciles the human race to yourself in a wonderful way.
 LECTIONARY READINGS
First reading: 1 Samuel 16:1, 6-7, 10-13
Responsorial psalm: Ps 22(23)
Second reading: Ephesians 5:8-14
Gospel: John 9:1-41
Link to readings – click here
Before we enter the darker days of Holy Week, we celebrate Laetare (‘Rejoice!’) Sunday. Today, we are reminded of the joy of Jesus’ presence, the light of our world, and of God’s love shining through our lives. Both the First Reading and the Psalm speak of the shepherd caring for the flock. Despite David’s youth and outward appearance, the Lord sees the strength of his heart, which will enable him to lead God’s people. The Psalm speaks of the certainty that I can rely on the Lord as my shepherd, keeping me safe from harm, whatever happens in my life.
In the Second Reading, St Paul reminds the Ephesians (and us) that God’s light in us shines out for others when we live in goodness and right living and truth. In the Gospel, the blind man’s sight is restored, and he comes into the light. Not only is he physically able to see for the first time, but he also recognises Jesus as the Son of Man. In contrast, those around him remain in the darkness of unbelief, trapped by their unwillingness to see Jesus as he really is.
This week, we pray for those who have yet to allow the light of Christ into their lives. We pray that we will carry Christ’s light to others as we walk beside them, sharing their hardships and sorrows.

 Formation:
There will be Formations offered in 2026. The Theme is Nurturing and Nourishment. Hugh McKay prefers the term “kindness” because it is the only form of human love that does not depend on affection. It is a response to a need, and it draws on our compassion – the quality that stands out most in Jesus’ life. Jesus chose to mix with and meet outcasts, inviting them to share his table. His fellowship included everyone – a family for all! If you have a preference for when this could be in your parish or region, please advise me as soon as possible:
Email: paulus663@gmail.com or Mobile: 021357933
 Formation Bookings: Dunedin Parishes 13 & 14 June;St Helliers 26th July and 35th Anniversary; East Coast Bays 28th July 2026
Parish Visits: Christchurch West, March 11; Christchurch South Coordinators, March 12; Ashburton, March 12; Visit Holy Trinity, March 13

 Safeguarding: “Working Together for a Safe Church”
Any complaints should be directed through the National Office of Professional Standards (NOPS) or reported 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

 Five Ways to Well Being

 Prayer

1. Let us take up the call of Pope Leo to be concerned with creating and building a sense of belonging in our communities. Also to be united in Christ – united in Mission
2. We pray for all leaders, political and other, that they and this war and move to peace resolutions
3. We remember that God calls on us, as people of faith, to offer our voices to help those who have none.
4. Keep in mind all those who continue to struggle with mental health challenges, and their families who support them in their daily lives.
5. Please remember Elizabeth, Tim Walsh and family; Debbie and Mike Cotter and family and friends; Christine and Derrick Scott; Paul, Deb and Nick Kelly; Jocelyn Kev Bryant and family, Norma Bellamy and family and Linsay Penman in your prayers
6. Also, please remember Margaret and Graeme Armstrong, Tim and Elizabeth Walsh, Pat Carson, Graeme Matthews, Di Buckley, Adrian van de Pas and her son Robert, Tim Bartells & family, Linda Darbyshire and family in your prayer, Christine Geoghegan’s daughter Kate and extended families, Pauline Prendergast, Robyn Burns (Hill)
7. Keep in mind all those who are struggling with decisions made by leaders that are causing harm, fear, injustice and separation of families.

9. Your own intentions

  Humour:
•Why do people who live in Greece hate waking up at dawn? Because Dawn is tough on Greece.
•What month is the shortest of the year? May has only three letters.
•Why do we tell actors to “break a leg”? Because every play has a cast.
•What do you call it when a snowman throws a tantrum? A meltdown.
•My uncle named his dogs Timex and Rolex. They’re his watchdogs.
•Did you hear about the guy whose left side was cut off? He’s all right now.
•What did the left eye say to the right eye? Between you and me, something smells.
•I’m so good at sleeping, I can do it with my eyes closed!
•What do you call a pudgy psychic? A four-chin teller.
•If April showers bring May flowers, what do May flowers bring? Pilgrims.
•What do you call a hippie’s wife? Mississippi.
•How can you tell it’s a dogwood tree? By the bark.