Catholic Identity
Jake Wilkinson, Leader of Religious Education & Catholic Identity
Monsignor Francis Kelly “Frank” Marriott OAM RIP
A Pontifical Concelebrated Funeral Mass for Monsignor Frank Marriott will be held at Sacred Heart Cathedral at 1 pm on Wednesday 3 December, 2025. The Mass will be livestreamed and available to view here. A Vigil Prayer Service will be held at St Kilian's Church at 7 pm on Tuesday 2 December, 2025.
Further information on arrangements and the life of Monsignor Frank Marriot is available here.
We keep Monsignor Frank Marriott and our parish priests in our prayers.
The Scriptures - Luke 21:25-28,34-36
Jesus said to his disciples: ‘There will be signs in the sun and moon and stars; on earth nations in agony, bewildered by the clamour of the ocean and its waves; men dying of fear as they await what menaces the world, for the powers of heaven will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand erect, hold your heads high, because your liberation is near at hand. ‘Watch yourselves, or your hearts will be coarsened with debauchery and drunkenness and the cares of life, and that day will be sprung on you suddenly, like a trap. For it will come down on every living man on the face of the earth. Stay awake, praying at all times for the strength to survive all that is going to happen, and to stand with confidence before the Son of Man.’
Summary
In this Gospel, Jesus talks about signs in the sun, moon, and stars, and how people will feel worried and afraid when strange things happen. He tells His followers not to be scared because these signs mean that God’s Kingdom is near. Jesus also reminds everyone to stay ready by praying and living in a way that pleases God, so they won’t be caught off guard when He comes back
Reflection
This Gospel reminds us of the tension between fear and hope. The imagery of cosmic signs and the distress of nations can seem overwhelming, but Jesus calls us to lift our heads in hope, for these are signs of God’s Kingdom drawing near. It’s an invitation to live with a sense of urgency, not in panic, but in faith and readiness. Jesus challenges us to avoid being weighed down by distractions or anxieties, urging us to stay spiritually awake through prayer and intentional living. This passage invites us to reflect: Are we focused on what truly matters? Are we living in a way that aligns with our faith and values? As we await the fulfilment of God’s promises, how can we remain steadfast, hopeful, and open to God’s presence in our daily lives?