Parish News

What’s happening from Parish Bulletin July 21...

The Gospel this week is the well-known story of Martha and Mary. I have to admit sometimes I feel sorry for Martha. She always gets 'bad press' for working, serving food, maybe fussing around, while Mary is known for choosing the better way and being truly attentive to Jesus. I want to defend Martha. After all, she was doing what was expected of her by society and providing practical hospitality. If I'm honest, I'm more like Martha when entertaining. I too would be annoyed if my sister wasn't pulling her weight and leaving the bulk of the work to me. Jesus however sees it differently. He knows that hospitality is more than serving food. Although he would have appreciated Martha's contribution, he pointed out that jealousy and anger were not attractive traits. The truly hospitable person is one who offers their time, attention and interest. Mary realised this and gave her all. Who knows, maybe she helped with the dishes after Jesus left?

Sometimes we hear people asked 'Who are the five people you would most like to have dinner with?’ Invariably the list consists of well-known celebrities, sporting stars, or relatives who have passed away. To me, this list can be very telling. Usually it consists of people we want to spend time with, listen to, or learn from. It brings out the 'Mary' in all of us. We truly want to be present with these people. In our daily lives, we encounter many people who show hospitality in different forms. We all know a 'Martha' or a 'Mary'. As I grow older I realise that Martha and Mary are in all of us - sometimes one is more dominant than the other. We are called to honour these two important roles within ourselves and others. Perhaps as we get older there may be a greater balance between the two. The important thing to remember is that when we provide hospitality we do it with sincerity and attention. Importantly also, we should remember, that when we have the opportunity to hear the word of God, or meet Jesus in others, we listen and react with love. Have a good week, Brian, Martin, Vicki & Garry

NEW USED COMMUTER BUS

Last Wednesday we purchased a used Commuter Bus. It is the replacement for one of the old minibuses which was unable to perform its task anymore.

Parking

Parking (StA) Please park only on the designated area at all times in the parish property. Please be gentle in the car park as you make your way in and out of the property. Follow the street signs when you are parking on the street. The parish will be unable to help if you get a fine.

Keysborough Learning Centre