The Most Holy Rosary

Jonah 1:1-2:1.11, Lk. 10:25-37. Today's first reading recounts the call of Prophet Jonah, who was sent by God to the great city of Nineveh. Nineveh was a capital city of Assyrian Empire which for many years was the centre point of power, wealth, influence, wickedness and corruption. Their wickedness accounts for Jonah's rejection of his call. Today's Gospel is also a call to be neighbours to those in need. A neighbour is not determined by the physical proximity with people but by the willingness to come out of our comfort zone and be available to others in times of need. We could be a bad neighbour when we are not sensitive and heartless towards others.

Being a good neighbour, requires going against all cultural, religious and economic barriers and be resolute to heal the wounds of division and hatred. A strong weapon to use to heal the wounds of division and hatred is the Holy Rosary. It was the power in the intercessory power of our Blessed Lady on behalf of God’s people that helped to win the decisive naval victory of a Christian fleet over the Turks at Lepanto on 7th October, 1571, a favour widely attributed to intense recitation of the Rosary. This crucial battle saved Europe from invasion by the forces of Islam and the victory over the Ottomans is commemorated by the invocation “Mary, help of Christians,” inserted in the Litany of Loreto. The Rosary invites us to remember the great mysteries of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. To that extent, she embodies the attitude of mind and heart that we are, invited to bring to praying the Rosary. In that prayer, we treasure and ponder on the key moments in the journey of Jesus in this world and from this world to the Father.

May the Lord stay with us and with everyone we meet this week and help us to build a just and peaceful society! Amen!! Good morning and have a fruitful week!!!