Catholic Identity
Jake Wilkinson, Leader of Religious Education & Catholic Identity
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:35–41 – Jesus Calms the Storm
A fierce storm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. But Jesus was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. The disciples woke him and said, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm... And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"
Reflection
On Friday morning a fire broke out at the St Kilian's Church, the fire has left many people feeling shocked and saddened. The church is much more than a building—it is a place where generations have prayed, celebrated baptisms and weddings, farewelled loved ones, and encountered Christ. The damage caused by the fire is a loss felt by the whole parish and wider Bendigo community, particularly here at St Peter's Primary school.
Yet today's Gospel reminds us that God does not leave us in the storm.
Sometimes we expect God's miracles to come in extraordinary ways. But often, Christ works quietly through the hands and hearts of ordinary people.
We saw Christ present in the firefighters and emergency service workers who responded with courage, skill and determination to contain the fire and protect as much of the church as possible. We saw Christ in the police, volunteers and all those who supported the response. Their compassion, professionalism and selfless service became signs of God's care for His people.
We also see Christ alive in the parish community. As people prepare the Parish Centre to become a temporary place of worship, they remind us that the Church is not simply timber, bricks or stained glass. The Church is God's people gathered in faith. Wherever believers come together to pray, to celebrate the Eucharist and to support one another, Christ is truly present.
Like the disciples in the boat, we discover that even in moments of fear, Christ remains with us, bringing peace through unexpected people and unexpected acts of love.
Reflection Questions
- Where did you see God's presence and hope in the response to the fire at St Kilian's?
- How can we be signs of Christ's love by supporting those who have been affected and helping our parish community move forward?
Prayer
Loving God,
In moments of fear, remind us that You never leave us.
We thank You for the firefighters, emergency service workers, police, volunteers and all who worked so hard to protect St Kilian's Church. Bless them for their courage and generosity.
We pray for our parish community as they gather in a new place of worship. Help us remember that Your Church is built not only with timber and stone, but with people whose faith, hope and love reflect Your presence.
We thank You for the guidance of our own shepherd, Fr Junray. Through his faithful service to our parish community and his calm, reassuring presence, may we see a reflection of Christ's love and care for his people.
May this difficult time strengthen our unity, deepen our faith and remind us that You continue to work through ordinary people in extraordinary ways.
May Christ, the Prince of Peace, remain with us always.
Amen
Parish News
Sandhurst Diocesan Calendar
