Catholic Identity
Jake Wilkinson, Leader of Religious Education & Catholic Identity
Gospel reading
Matthew 16:13–20
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”
They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.
Summary
In this Gospel, Jesus asks His disciples a deeply personal question: "Who do you say I am?" While others have many opinions about Jesus, Peter boldly professes his faith, declaring that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God. Jesus recognises Peter's faith as a gift from God and entrusts him with a special mission to lead His Church. This passage reminds us that our relationship with Jesus is personal and calls us to respond with faith, trust and courage. Like Peter, we are invited to recognise Christ in our lives and to help build His Church through our words and actions.
Reflection Questions
- Who is Jesus to me, and how do I show my faith in Him through my daily actions?
- How can I use my gifts to help strengthen and support the Church, my school, my family or my community?
Prayer
Loving Jesus ,
You are the Son of the living God and the foundation of our faith. Help us, like St Peter, to trust in You with courage and conviction. Strengthen us to live as faithful disciples, building Your Church through love, kindness and service to others. May our words and actions always reflect Your presence in our lives.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Reconciliation
The sacrament of Reconciliation is a special time when we talk to a priest about anything that we have done wrong, say we are sorry, and ask for God's forgiveness. It's like getting a fresh start, knowing God always loves us and helps us to do better.
St Kilian's Parish is offering the sacrement of Reconciliation for students who are in grade 2 or above who completed the sacrament of Baptism. This program will start in Term 4, October.
If you would like more information, please call the office.
Thanks Jake
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