Pray As You Go - Daily Prayer

Thursday 17 September 2026

Today is Thursday the 17th of September, the feast of Saint Robert Bellarmine SJ, in the 24th week of Ordinary Time. Steffany Gretzinger sings, ‘I Love You Lord.' As we begin this time, make these words your simple prayer: ‘I Love You Lord’. I love You, Lord And I lift my voice To worship You Oh, my soul rejoice Take joy, my King In what You hear May it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 7:36-50 One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house and took his place at the table. And a woman in the city, who was a sinner, having learned that he was eating in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster jar of ointment. She stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair. Then she continued kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, ‘If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him—that she is a sinner.’ Jesus spoke up and said to him, ‘Simon, I have something to say to you.’ ‘Teacher,’ he replied, ‘speak.’ ‘A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. When they could not pay, he cancelled the debts for both of them. Now which of them will love him more?’ Simon answered, ‘I suppose the one for whom he cancelled the greater debt.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘You have judged rightly.’ Then turning towards the woman, he said to Simon, ‘Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which were many, have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little.’ Then he said to her, ‘Your sins are forgiven.’ But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, ‘Who is this who even forgives sins?’ And he said to the woman, ‘Your faith has saved you; go in peace.’ Imagine you are a guest at the dinner in Simon’s house. Who is with you? Notice their faces, their expressions, their posture. Notice what you can see... hear... smell... what is the food like? Where is Jesus? Notice what he is doing and how he seems... As you watch, a woman enters. She approaches Jesus and begins to anoint and kiss his feet, weeping and drying them with her hair. Stay with this moment. What is this scene stirring within you? What do you want to say to the woman? How does she respond to you? You hear Jesus tell Simon a story about two people in debt, one owing much and one just a little – both are forgiven. What point is Jesus making? How do you respond to the words of Jesus? As this time of prayer comes to an end, give thanks for the gift of God’s forgiveness. Leave this place in peace, carrying God’s forgiveness with you. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 16 September 2026

Today is Wednesday the 16th of September, the feast of Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop, in the 24th week of Ordinary Time. The Cape Town Camerata sings Ubi Caritas: ‘Wherever love is true, God is there.’ Where is love today? Where can you find God? Reflect on this love as we enter into prayer. Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. But as for prophecies, they will come to an end; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will come to an end. For we know only in part, and we prophesy only in part; but when the complete comes, the partial will come to an end. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love. In this great hymn to love, St Paul reminds us of the shape our lives will be if they reflect the heart of God, who is love. Where in your life do you long for your love to be more like God’s love? Love is patient and kind. It is not envious, boastful, arrogant, or rude. Which of these words draws your attention or challenges you? Where do you notice resistance or struggle? Ask God for the grace to notice what needs to change in the way you exercise love. As you listen again, notice which word or phrase resonates most with you. Stay with this word or phrase and let it settle within you. 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. But as for prophecies, they will come to an end; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will come to an end. For we know only in part, and we prophesy only in part; but when the complete comes, the partial will come to an end. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love. ‘Now we see in a mirror dimly, but then we shall see face to face.’ Imagine standing before God, fully known and fully loved. What stirs in you as you imagine that moment? Share with God what’s on your heart. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 15 September 2026

Today is Tuesday the 15th of September, the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, in the 24th week of Ordinary Time. Gillian Fisher and Michael Chance sing Stabat Mater Dolorosa by Pergolesi. ‘By the cross from which hung her son, his mother stood in sorrow and tears.’ As you listen, prepare to contemplate today on Mary’s share in the suffering and the sacrifice of Jesus, a sacrifice made freely, and made out of love for the world. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of John. John 19:25-27 Meanwhile, standing near the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, here is your son.’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home. Imagine yourself standing at the foot of the cross. What is it that has brought you to the cross? Notice who is with you... What can you see and hear? As you stand there, Jesus speaks to his mother and the disciple John. How do you imagine this moment? Listen to his words and how he says them... As you listen to this short passage again, think about what it means for you to be a disciple of Jesus. John 19:25-27 Meanwhile, standing near the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, here is your son.’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home. In these final moments of prayer, imagine that Jesus looks directly at you from the cross and speaks. What does he say to you? Allow yourself to respond. What will you do next? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 14 September 2026

Today is Monday the 14th of September, the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, in the 24th week of Ordinary Time. Today, we will pray with the cross of Christ. Checko Ankrah and Nicky Lathbridge sing, ‘High and Lifted’. As you listen, reflect on all the ways in which Christ is “high and lifted up”. You are worthy to be praised You are worthy to be praised You are high and lifted up You are high and lifted up You are high and lifted up Oh Lord You are high and lifted up We're surrounded by Your presence, oh God You are high and lifted up Your glory fills Your glory fills the space, oh God You are high and lifted up I hear the sound of angels I hear the sound of Heaven I see Your glory fill this place, oh God You are high, You are high and lifted up Today’s reading is from the Gospel of John. John 3:13-17 No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Today, we remember and give thanks for all that Jesus has done for the world through his suffering and death on the cross. What place does the cross hold in your life and faith today? Jesus speaks of being ‘lifted up.’ What does it mean for you today that Jesus is lifted up? As you listen again, imagine Jesus on the cross, arms outstretched, drawing the whole world to himself. John 3:13-17 No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. As you conclude this time of prayer, give thanks for the grace and mercy of God, who chooses not to condemn but to save. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 13 September 2026

Today is Sunday the 13th of September, beginning the 24th week of Ordinary Time. The Dunedin Consort sings Mache dich, mein Herze, rein from Bach’s St Matthew Passion: Mache dich, mein Herze, rein. ‘Make my heart pure.’ We tend not to think of ourselves, as pure, just because the bad feelings in our own hearts – anger, spite, impatience – are so plain to us. But what is a pure heart? It is a heart that is open to God, that wants whatever God wants. We purify our hearts whenever we ask God to show the way, whenever we surrender our will to God’s will. And we can do that, now. Today’s reading is from the Book of Ecclesiasticus. Ecclesiasticus 27:30-28:7 Anger and wrath, these also are abominations, yet a sinner holds on to them. The vengeful will face the Lord’s vengeance, for he keeps a strict account of their sins. Forgive your neighbour the wrong he has done, and then your sins will be pardoned when you pray. Does anyone harbour anger against another, and expect healing from the Lord? If someone has no mercy towards another like himself, can he then seek pardon for his own sins? If a mere mortal harbours wrath, who will make an atoning sacrifice for his sins? Remember the end of your life, and set enmity aside; remember corruption and death, and be true to the commandments. Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbour; remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook faults. This reading makes an unflinching connection: those who hold on to anger cannot expect the healing or forgiveness they ask of God. It is a hard equation to hear, and yet it rings true to experience - the resentment we nurse against others so often keeps us, too, locked outside the freedom we long for. How does it feel to hear that your own capacity to receive forgiveness is bound up with your willingness to forgive? ‘Remember the end of your life and set enmity aside’ These words reach for our mortality as a way of putting our grudges in perspective. Does the reminder that life is short change how urgently you feel about a resentment or an unresolved anger you may be carrying at the moment? As you listen to the reading again, let the words rest particularly on any anger you are aware of holding, and notice what arises. Ecclesiasticus 27:30-28:7 Anger and wrath, these also are abominations, yet a sinner holds on to them. The vengeful will face the Lord’s vengeance, for he keeps a strict account of their sins. Forgive your neighbour the wrong he has done, and then your sins will be pardoned when you pray. Does anyone harbour anger against another, and expect healing from the Lord? If someone has no mercy towards another like himself, can he then seek pardon for his own sins? If a mere mortal harbours wrath, who will make an atoning sacrifice for his sins? Remember the end of your life, and set enmity aside; remember corruption and death, and be true to the commandments. Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbour; remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook faults. This week has already asked us to love our enemies and to see ourselves honestly before judging others. Our final reading brings both of these together today. Is there someone you need to forgive, or a wrong you are finding hard to release? Speak to God now about it, asking for the grace of a freer heart. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. This week’s readings have circled repeatedly around the themes of seeing rightly and reaching out in trust. On Monday, a man with a withered hand was asked to stretch it out before he knew whether healing would come. On Tuesday, Joseph said yes to something he did not understand, trusting a word given to him in sleep. Where this week have you been asked to act in trust before being certain of the outcome? Wednesday’s beatitudes turned the world’s values upside down, blessing the poor and warning the comfortable, and gave us the example of Peter Claver, who chose to live among the despised rather than the secure. Thursday pressed the point further still, asking us to love enemies and to be merciful simply because God is merciful, not because it is deserved or safe. How have you found yourself resisting, or being drawn towards, that kind of costly generosity this week? Friday reminded us how easily we mistake our own blindness for clear sight, quick to notice the speck in another’s eye while missing the log in our own. Have you noticed any of your own blind spots this week, perhaps in how you have judged someone, or in an assumption made too quickly? Underneath all these readings lies a single invitation: to trust God enough to stretch out your hand, to love without calculating the cost, and to look honestly at yourself before looking too hard at others. As you look back over this week, where have you felt most free, and where have you felt most withered or closed? Take time now to bring both to God, asking for whatever grace you most need as this week draws to a close. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 11 September 2026

Today is Friday the 11th of September, in the 23rd week of Ordinary Time. The monks of the Abbey of Keur Moussa sing Aveugle de Coeur: “Blind in heart since my birth, I come to you, Light of the world…. Let me live as a child of light” As you listen, ask the Lord to open your eyes to what he wants you to see. Ask for the grace of God to shine God's light into your life. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 6:39-42 [Jesus] also told them a parable: ‘Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully qualified will be like the teacher. Why do you see the speck in your neighbour’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbour, “Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye”, when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbour’s eye. Today, Jesus is warning against the confidence with which we sometimes offer guidance or correction to others while remaining unaware of our own blind spots. Where might you be more limited in your own vision than you like to admit, especially with people closest to you? The speck and the log is a deliberately exaggerated image, meant to catch us laughing at ourselves before we can take offence. Self-knowledge, Jesus suggests, has to come before we can rightly help anyone else see clearly. Is there someone whose faults loom unusually large in your mind at the moment? What might Jesus be inviting you to notice in yourself first? As you hear the reading again, ask for the grace of a little more self-knowledge, and notice what comes to mind. Luke 6:39-42 [Jesus] also told them a parable: ‘Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully qualified will be like the teacher. Why do you see the speck in your neighbour’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbour, “Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye”, when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbour’s eye. Bring to God, honestly, whatever this reading has stirred up about your own blind spots, and ask for the humility to see yourself, and others, with clearer eyes. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 10 September 2026

Today is Thursday the 10th of September, in the 23rd week of Ordinary Time. Slow down as you enter into prayer today. Jon Guerra will guide us into today’s scripture with the song, ‘Love Your Enemies’. Draw to mind the ways in which God has loved you throughout your life so far, even during those moments you perhaps didn’t feel like you deserved it... Give to everyone who asks of you Be good to everybody, no matter who Do to them as you would have them do to you Love your enemies No greater love is there than this I laid down My life, and I would do it again I gave it to you, so give it to them Love your enemies Love, love Love your enemies And be children of your Father in Heaven Children of your Father in Heavеn Turn the other cheek, put down your fists Give up your coat if somеone asks for it What have you got that you were not given? Give everything And when the sun sets on your labour Turning the tides, but not in your favour Love is a rescue and it'll save you For love, love Love your enemies And be children of your Father in Heaven Children of your Father in Heaven If you love those who love you, what good is it? What good is it? What good is it? If you hate those who hate you, what good is it? Well, it's no good, no good at all If you love those who love you, what good is it? What good is it? What good is it? If you gain the whole world, but lose your soul Well, it's no good, no good at all It's no good, no good at all Oh, love, love Love your enemies And be children of your Father in Heaven Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 6:27-38 ‘But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you. ‘If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. ‘Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.’ This is among the hardest teaching in the Gospels: love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, lend expecting nothing back. It asks for a freedom from calculation that does not come naturally to any of us. Who is the enemy, or the difficult person, who comes to mind as you hear this today? What would loving them without expecting anything in return look like, practically, this week? Jesus grounds this teaching not in willpower but in likeness: ‘Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.’ We are not asked to generate mercy out of nothing, but to let flow towards others something of the mercy we have already received. Can you remember a time when you were shown a mercy you had not earned? How did that change what you were able to give to someone else? Listen again, and notice which line feels most impossible, and which feels most like an invitation. What happens when you stay with both? Luke 6:27-38 ‘But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you. ‘If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. ‘Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.’ Speak honestly to God about where this teaching feels beyond you and ask for the grace to be made capable of it, little by little, rather than all at once. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 9 September 2026

Today is Wednesday the 9th of September, the feast of Saint Peter Claver SJ, in the 23rd week of Ordinary Time. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life. The most important thing for to do in this moment as you enter into prayer is to let go for a moment... to let go of your concerns, your worries and fears and reluctance, and let yourself be led by God, trusting that God, who loves you, will lead you into life. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 6:20-26 Then he looked up at his disciples and said: ‘Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. ‘Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. ‘Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. ‘Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice on that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets. ‘But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. ‘Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. ‘Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep. ‘Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.' Luke’s Jesus speaks directly to ‘you’ rather than describing others at a distance. The poor, the hungry, the weeping and the hated are blessed; the rich, the full, the laughing and the well-regarded are warned. It is a hard reversal to hear. Where do you find yourself as you listen to these words today, among the blessed, among those being warned, or somewhere uncomfortably in between? Today the Church remembers St Peter Claver, the Jesuit who gave his life to those enslaved, choosing to live among those the world despised rather than among the comfortable. His life is itself a commentary on this Gospel: blessedness found not in security but in solidarity with those who suffer. Who are the people at the margins that you find yourself drawn to, or perhaps avoiding? What holds you back? As you hear the reading again, notice whether it comforts or unsettles you, and let that response itself become part of your prayer. Luke 6:20-26 Then he looked up at his disciples and said: ‘Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. ‘Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. ‘Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. ‘Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice on that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets. ‘But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. ‘Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. ‘Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep. ‘Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.' Ask God for the grace to want what Jesus calls blessed, even when it costs something, and to be honest about the ways you have settled instead for comfort or approval. Speak to God now about what you find yourself desiring most. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 8 September 2026

Today is Tuesday the 8th of September, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in the 23rd week of Ordinary Time. The Gaudete Ensemble sings ‘Ave Maria’ by Margaret Rizza. On this feast day, allow your desire to pray to lead you towards the Lord. Ask Him to draw you close, to help you release whatever keeps you from Him, and to open your heart and soul to His presence. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 1:18-23 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: ‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel’, which means, ‘God is with us.’ Joseph is caught between two goods: the demands of the law and mercy towards Mary. His first instinct is to protect her from disgrace rather than expose her. Long before he understands what God is doing, Joseph is already inclined towards compassion. Where in your life have you found yourself drawn towards mercy even before you fully understood why? The angel comes to Joseph in a dream, at the very time when he is least in control, least able to plan or reason his way through. God’s clearest word to him arrives in sleep, in vulnerability, rather than in his own careful deliberation. Has God ever spoken to you most clearly at a time when you were not in control, or unable to see your way ahead? As the reading is repeated, listen for whichever word or phrase seems to be addressed to you today. Where does it lead you? Matthew 1:18-23 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: ‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel’, which means, ‘God is with us.’ Joseph’s obedience is quiet and largely unrecorded. We never hear him speak, yet the whole of the Christmas story depends on his willingness to say yes to something he could not fully understand. Is there an invitation in your own life just now that asks a similar, quiet trust? Try to speak to God about it. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 7 September 2026

Today is Monday the 7th of September, the Martyrdom of Blessed Ralph Corby SJ, in the 23rd week of Ordinary Time. Leslie Jordan with The Porter’s Gate sings, ‘Have You Found the Lord’? As you enter into prayer, reflect on all the surprising places God has been found in your life recently... the kindness of a friend... in nature... a seemingly ordinary moment... Have you found the Lord? Is he in the wind? Yes, yes, yes, he’s in the wind Have you found the Lord? Is he in the storm? Yes, yes, yes, he’s in the storm Christ is in ten thousand places Ever-present, high and low Where could I, where could I Where could I go? Have you found the Lord? Is he in your tears? Yes, yes, yes, he’s in my tears Have you found the Lord As a patient friend? Yes, yes, yes, he is my friend Christ is in ten thousand places Ever-present, high and low Where could I, where could I Where could I go? Have you found the Lord? Is he always good? Yes, yes, yes, the Lord is good Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 6:6-11 On another sabbath [Jesus] entered the synagogue and taught, and there was a man there whose right hand was withered. The scribes and the Pharisees watched him to see whether he would cure on the sabbath, so that they might find an accusation against him. Even though he knew what they were thinking, he said to the man who had the withered hand, ‘Come and stand here.’ He got up and stood there. Then Jesus said to them, ‘I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to destroy it?’ After looking around at all of them, he said to him, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He did so, and his hand was restored. But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus. Jesus heals in full view of people who are watching only so as to catch him out, and he does not let their hostility hold him back. He puts the question that exposes what is really at stake: is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to destroy it? He places kindness above any rule that might get in kindness’s way. Is there a rule, a habit, or an expectation in your own life that sometimes gets in the way of your doing good? The man is told simply, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He has to act, in trust, before he can know whether healing will follow. Grace so often asks something of us first, some small movement towards it, before we feel its effect. Is there a withered part of you, some capacity you have stopped trusting, that Jesus might be inviting you to stretch out today? As you hear the reading once more, notice what draws your attention this time. What do you feel as you watch this small, quiet act of courage and compassion? Luke 6:6-11 On another sabbath [Jesus] entered the synagogue and taught, and there was a man there whose right hand was withered. The scribes and the Pharisees watched him to see whether he would cure on the sabbath, so that they might find an accusation against him. Even though he knew what they were thinking, he said to the man who had the withered hand, ‘Come and stand here.’ He got up and stood there. Then Jesus said to them, ‘I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to destroy it?’ After looking around at all of them, he said to him, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He did so, and his hand was restored. But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus. The leaders’ response to healing is fury rather than joy. Good news that should delight them instead threatens the control they cling to. Is there a corner of your own heart that resists good news because it asks you to let go of control? Take this to God now, as honestly as you can. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 6 September 2026

Today is Sunday the 6th of September, beginning the 23rd week of Ordinary Time. ‘God is nothing but love’. As you hear Paul Zach sing these words with The Porter’s Gate, notice how you feel about this idea: God is nothing but love. Let it fill your heart as you begin to pray. God is nothing but love Dare to give all for love Give yourselves without fear Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Romans. Romans 13:8-10 Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet’; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ Love does no wrong to a neighbour; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law. We are now coming very near to the end of Paul’s rather long and difficult letter to the Romans; and here he is getting them to think about how they might live together as Christians in Rome. Paul tells them that the only thing that matters is that they should “love one another”. What is your true response to hearing this? Paul tells them that love fulfils all the commandments. How does this kind of love play out in your life? As you listen again, simply reflect on the love of God in your life and how you reflect it to others... Romans 13:8-10 Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet’; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ Love does no wrong to a neighbour; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law. What would you like to say to the Lord as this time of prayer comes to a close? Where is love prompting you today? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 5 September 2026

On Saturdays we like to look prayerfully and reflectively back at how we have done during this week, in both our activities and our praying, to get used to seeing where God has been present. This time of Examen isn’t a memory test (many of us can barely remember yesterday!) Instead, this is a moment to let God show you the movements of God, and the movements of your heart. If you’re finding it hard, simply ask for help, or return to a point of gratitude you have. Take a moment to slow down. Become aware of your breathing. To begin, let up to three things surface in your mind, possibly, but not necessarily, three moments in prayer, when you felt the touch of God this week. Now recall just two things for which you would like to tell God that you are sorry. Finally, think of just one thing that you are being challenged to work on in the coming week, and ask for God’s help.

Friday 4 September 2026

Today is Friday the 4th of September, in the 22nd week of Ordinary Time. 'The Lord is my light, my hope, my salvation. In him I trust.' We rely on many things in our lives. On other people; on our wealth or our possessions; on our power, or reputation, or status; on our own ideas and talents. But as you enter into prayer now, can you put all those things aside for a moment, and place all your trust in God, your light, your hope, your salvation? Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they should be found trustworthy. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. I do not even judge myself. I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgement before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive commendation from God. We return to Corinth today. Paul is still trying to stop those Corinthians from squabbling, and his answer to their tensions is that they should see things as God sees them. One of his techniques here is to get them to see himself and Apollos as nothing more than “servants” and “stewards”. Do you think that might stop their quarrels? Might it stop any in your life? “For me, it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you”. How will the Corinthians feel about that? What effect might it have on them? Now listen as the passage is read once more for you. This time, what is it that speaks most directly to you? 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they should be found trustworthy. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. I do not even judge myself. I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgement before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive commendation from God. “The Lord will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness”. In these last moments of prayer, speak to the Lord about anything that needs to be brought into the light in your life. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 3 September 2026

Today is Thursday the 3rd of September, the feast of Saint Gregory the Great, in the 22nd week of Ordinary Time. Amelia Blanchard, Avery Reider and Ike Ndolo sing, ‘I Long for You’, from Companion Songs. As you enter into prayer, become aware of your own longing for God, noticing God’s longing for you in return. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 5:1-11 Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.’ When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signalled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, ‘Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!’ For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.’ When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him. Our reading today is a rather different account of the call of the first of Jesus’ disciples from what you find in the other gospels. How do you imagine it all? What is the lake like? Watch them as they wash their nets... As Jesus finishes teaching, the first thing he does is ask Simon a question. How do you think Simon felt on being ordered to put out from the shore, and being instructed to “put out your nets for a catch”? As you listen to the story again, zoom in on Simon’s reaction at the size of the catch they took... What might his facial expressions have been like? When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.’ When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signalled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, ‘Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!’ For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.’ When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him. “They left everything and followed him”. As Christians, we are all called to the same life those first disciples were called to. What have you left to follow Jesus? Speak to him now about anything that might be lingering from this time of prayer. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 2 September 2026

Today is Wednesday the 2nd of September, in the 22nd week of Ordinary Time. The monks of Pluscarden Abbey sing Ecce quam bonum: “How good and how pleasant it is when brothers and sisters live together in unity! It is like precious oil on the head, running down upon the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down over the collar of his robes.” As you listen, reflect on the joy of unity; on the consolation that community can bring. Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 And so, brothers and sisters, I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but rather as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for solid food. Even now you are still not ready, for you are still of the flesh. For as long as there is jealousy and quarrelling among you, are you not of the flesh, and behaving according to human inclinations? For when one says, ‘I belong to Paul’, and another, ‘I belong to Apollos’, are you not merely human? What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. The one who plants and the one who waters have a common purpose, and each will receive wages according to the labour of each. For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building. The problem here is that the Corinthians have been squabbling. Does the passage resonate with any of your church or community experiences at all? It seems that there is tension in Corinth, about those who had preached the gospel to them; in this case it is “Paul” and “Apollos” who represent the different factions. How does Paul try to deal with the tension? As you hear the passage again, imagine you are hearing it afresh, as if you were a Corinthian receiving the message for the first time, with all the arguments happening around you... 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 And so, brothers and sisters, I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but rather as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for solid food. Even now you are still not ready, for you are still of the flesh. For as long as there is jealousy and quarrelling among you, are you not of the flesh, and behaving according to human inclinations? For when one says, ‘I belong to Paul’, and another, ‘I belong to Apollos’, are you not merely human? What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. The one who plants and the one who waters have a common purpose, and each will receive wages according to the labour of each. For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building. In these closing moments, speak with God as one friend speaks to another about any tensions in your life concerning other people...listen to what God says in return... it could surprise you! Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 1 September 2026

Today is Tuesday the 1st of September, in the 22nd week of Ordinary Time. The community of Taizé sing, Jésus le Christ: ‘Jesus Christ, inner light, do not let my darkness speak to me. Jesus Christ, inner light, let me welcome your love.’ Jésus le Christ, lumière intérieure, ne laisse pas mes ténèbres me parler Jésus le Christ, lumière intérieure, donne-moi d'accueillir ton amour Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 4:31-37 [Jesus] went down to Capernaum, a city in Galilee, and was teaching them on the sabbath. They were astounded at his teaching, because he spoke with authority. In the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice, ‘Let us alone! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.’ But Jesus rebuked him, saying, ‘Be silent, and come out of him!’ When the demon had thrown him down before them, he came out of him without having done him any harm. They were all amazed and kept saying to one another, ‘What kind of utterance is this? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and out they come!’ And a report about him began to reach every place in the region. Today we watch for the first time in Luke’s gospel as Jesus starts his mission of preaching his Father’s message. The text says that “they were astounded at his teaching, because he spoke with authority”. Imagine yourself in the scene... imagine this authority...how do you experience it? Through Jesus’ gestures...the sound of his voice...the words he’s using... “A report about Jesus began to reach every place in the region”. Imagine the report for a moment... what do you think it might have said? Now listen as the passage is read for you once more. Place yourself into the scene and let it unfold... Luke 4:31-37 [Jesus] went down to Capernaum, a city in Galilee, and was teaching them on the sabbath. They were astounded at his teaching, because he spoke with authority. In the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice, ‘Let us alone! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.’ But Jesus rebuked him, saying, ‘Be silent, and come out of him!’ When the demon had thrown him down before them, he came out of him without having done him any harm. They were all amazed and kept saying to one another, ‘What kind of utterance is this? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and out they come!’ And a report about him began to reach every place in the region. As we close this time of prayer, spend time with this authority of Jesus. What might you like to say to him about it? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 31 August 2026

Today is Monday the 31st of August, in the 22nd week of Ordinary Time. The Monks of Glenstal Abbey sing Nos autem gloriari: ‘We should glory in nothing other than the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is our salvation, life and resurrection; through him we are saved and set free. May God have mercy upon us and bless us, may he make his face shine upon us and be merciful to us.’ As you listen, can you feel God’s face shining on you, and open yourself to that light, to that loving presence? Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in lofty words or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I came to you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling. My speech and my proclamation were not with plausible words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God. Paul is here dealing with his rather difficult community of believers in Corinth. He says, “I decided to know nothing among you, except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” What does he mean by this? Perhaps this is something you could adopt in your life...to know nothing except Jesus Christ, and him crucified... We hear that Paul arrived to them “in weakness and fear and in much trembling”. What might this tell us even about our great heroes in the faith? Now listen once more as the passage is read a second time. Is there anything that really strikes you this time? What might God be saying to you here? 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in lofty words or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I came to you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling. My speech and my proclamation were not with plausible words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God. ...”so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God.” As this time of prayer comes to a close, ask God for the grace you need to rest your faith on the power of God this coming week. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 30 August 2026

Today is Sunday the 30th of August, beginning the 22nd week of Ordinary Time. Lord, I long for Your peace. Quiet everything within me that is restless. Lord, I long for Your light. Shine into the places of darkness within me. Lord, be with me. Pray with me. To guide us into prayer, the Community of Taizé sings, ‘O Lord Hear My Prayer’. Today’s reading is from the Prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah 20:7-9 O Lord, you have enticed me, and I was enticed; you have overpowered me, and you have prevailed. I have become a laughing-stock all day long; everyone mocks me. For whenever I speak, I must cry out, I must shout, ‘Violence and destruction!’ For the word of the Lord has become for me a reproach and derision all day long. If I say, ‘I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name’, then within me there is something like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot. In today’s reading we see a very human side of Jeremiah, so as you pray, imagine that you are alongside Jeremiah as he expresses his ambivalence about his relationship with God and his call as a prophet. I have become a laughingstock all day long; everyone mocks me. For whenever I speak, I must cry out, I must shout, “Violence and destruction!” As you hear these words, can you recall a time when you have also suffered whilst in the service of God? Take a moment as you stand with Jeremiah to reflect on this time and the feelings that you felt or continue to feel. Yet, Jeremiah is so passionate that something within him is like a burning fire shut up in his bones! Listen to his passion as the reading is read again. Jeremiah 20:7-9 O Lord, you have enticed me, and I was enticed; you have overpowered me, and you have prevailed. I have become a laughing-stock all day long; everyone mocks me. For whenever I speak, I must cry out, I must shout, ‘Violence and destruction!’ For the word of the Lord has become for me a reproach and derision all day long. If I say, ‘I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name’, then within me there is something like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot. We might admire Jeremiah for having the courage and passion to keep on prophesying for the Lord. He says: ‘I am so weary with holding it in, and I cannot.’ Are there aspects of your faith that you withhold from others to protect yourself from mockery or perhaps the fear of being misunderstood? Speak with the Lord with honesty about your experiences, seeking his compassion and help. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 29 August 2026

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. Our theme this week has been preparing our hearts for the return of the Lord. As you begin the examen today, take time to arrive and to rest in his loving presence. Sit comfortably and become attentive to this present moment. If anything distracts you, notice it, then come gently back to the present moment. Become aware of the pace of your breathing. Take two deep breaths in and out. Then settle at the core of your being, imagine that your soul coming to rest in the Lord. We started our week with Jesus noticing Nathaneal, seeing that he was a man without deceit. The Lord is with you, so have a moment of quiet and simply letting him see you, just as you are on the outside and inside. As an excerpt of each daily scripture from the past week is read, let them remind you of your week in prayer, and perhaps notice which reading most moves you today. 'Jesus answered, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than these.”' 'Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord; for he is coming, he is coming to judge the earth.' 'Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful, but inside they are full of the bones of the dead and of all kinds of filth.' 'Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.' 'As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’' Stay with the reading that has stood out to you and begin to speak with the Lord about this. You might like to ask God to help you carry this verse into the week ahead too. As you come to the end of your prayer, pray for the week ahead, knowing that the Holy Spirit goes before you and will remain with you. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 28 August 2026

Today is Friday the 28th of August, the feast of Saint Augustine, in the 21st week of Ordinary Time. Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum: My eyes are on the Lord God. As you journey through your life, are your eyes on the Lord? Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum Like the deer that yearns for running streams So my soul is yearning for my God My tears have become my bread day and night As I hear it said: 'Where is your God?′ Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum By day the Lord will send His loving Spirit By night I will sing praises to the God of my life Send out Your light and Your truth as my guide To lead me to Your holy ground Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum Then shall I go to the God of my joy Singing praise, praise on the lyre and the harp Why so downcast my soul? Put your hope and trust in my Saviour, my God Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 25:1-13 ‘Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, “Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.” Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, “Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.” But the wise replied, “No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.” And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, “Lord, lord, open to us.” But he replied, “Truly I tell you, I do not know you.” Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.’ Wise and foolish. If we tend to arrive late to occasions, we might feel some sympathy for the foolish bridesmaids. In this parable Jesus is speaking about being well prepared for his return, when he will be the bridegroom. The bridesmaids need to trim their lamps to ensure that they have enough light. What preparations might you need to make to ensure that you would be ready for the hour when Jesus returns? When the bridegroom arrives, the wise bridesmaids accompany him into the wedding banquet. Try to imagine the procession of glowing lamps lighting up the hall, the lavish banquet, the joy of the wedding guests as they welcome the bridegroom, adorned in his wedding clothes, and try to imagine the jubilation that will be felt when the long wait is over. As you listen to the reading again, notice the activity of the foolish bridesmaids. Matthew 25:1-13 ‘Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, “Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.” Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, “Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.” But the wise replied, “No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.” And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, “Lord, lord, open to us.” But he replied, “Truly I tell you, I do not know you.” Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.’ “Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” On his feast day, we remember St. Augustine as being someone known for overcoming his worldly desires through his passion for the Lord. So, as we approach the end of our prayer time today, consider: how can I keep my heart of love lit, aflame, and ready for the moment when the Lord arrives? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 27 August 2026

Today is Thursday the 27th of August, the feast of Saint Monica, in the 21st week of Ordinary Time. Jon Guerra sings, ‘Reckoner’. Notice what draws you in this song as you prepare for prayer today. These are the days of the devil in the wilderness These are the tastes that have turned into bitterness It's not that we doubt that a stone can turn into bread It's just we doubt that we're hungry at all The serial temptations of the age are getting harder The country's getting meaner, computers getting smarter The pains we try to numb are only getting sharper We're going on like nothing's the matter at all Every valley will be lifted Every mountain brought low When the reckoner comes reckoning Every secret will be known Truly truly, I tell you truly There's an axe laid at the root Before the reckoner comes reckoning Repent, believe the truth The phone in my pocket was sold like a gain to me I've lost so much time and attention to technology That sells me the lie that it knows what I really need And God knows it only make me feel more alone This is the rot and the end of civilization When the spirit is quenched by a spiritless simulation We need no other signs, no other tribulation than this Every valley will be lifted Every mountain brought low When the reckoner comes reckoning Every secret will be known Truly truly, I tell you truly There's an axe laid at the root Before the reckoner comes reckoning Repent, believe the truth We shall not live by bread alone But by every word that comes from the mouth of God We shall not live by bread alone But by every word that comes from the mouth of God Truly, truly I tell you truly As you did it to one of these To the least of these my brethren You did it unto me For I was hungry, and you fed me I was thirsty, you gave me drink I was a stranger, and you welcomed me You did it unto me Some trust in chariots, in power or politicians Some trust in the market of collective superstitions But we trust in the name of the Lord of crucifixion And the hope of resurrection In Jesus Christ Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 24:42-51 Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has put in charge of his household, to give the other servants their allowance of food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find at work when he arrives. Truly I tell you, he will put that one in charge of all his possessions. But if that wicked servant says to himself, “My master is delayed”, and he begins to beat his fellow-servants, and eats and drinks with drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour that he does not know. He will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. In this parable Jesus tells us that The Son of Man is coming at an unexpected time, like a thief coming in the night, therefore we must be ready. If you knew that his return could be any moment now, what would you most want to do in preparation? Jesus says, “Keep awake therefore...” Perhaps, in some part of your faith, you feel you have dozed off, for example, is there a practice that has slipped out of your routine or a desire that needs to be rekindled? As the reading is read again, what do you notice from the parable of the faithful and unfaithful servants? Matthew 24:42-51 Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. ‘Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has put in charge of his household, to give the other servants their allowance of food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find at work when he arrives. Truly I tell you, he will put that one in charge of all his possessions. But if that wicked servant says to himself, “My master is delayed”, and he begins to beat his fellow-servants, and eats and drinks with drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour that he does not know. He will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. We may feel that this parable has rather a gruesome ending for the wicked servant, but Jesus told these stories to help us to examine our consciences. As you approach the end of your prayer, open your heart to the Lord, who looks upon you with great love and let him search you and know your thoughts. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 26 August 2026

Today is Wednesday the 26th of August, in the 21st week of Ordinary Time. Paul Zach and Jessica Fox sing, ‘Create in Me’, a setting of Psalm 51. Can you make this your own prayer today? Create in me a clean heart, O Lord Create in me a clean heart, O Lord Against you only I have sinned Done evil in your sight But you have shown me what I’ve done With mercy in your eyes Then wash my shame and guilt away My weary soul renew From all my sinning turn your face Let me return to you Create in me a clean heart, O Lord Create in me a clean heart, O Lord So I will give you what you ask A humble, broken heart A spirit burning down to ash Within your flame, O God And this will be your mercy, Lord Transforming all of me Til every act and every word Your love and glory speaks Create in me a clean heart, O Lord Create in me a clean heart, O Lord Have mercy on me According to your endless love Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 23:27-32 ‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful, but inside they are full of the bones of the dead and of all kinds of filth. So you also on the outside look righteous to others, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. ‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous, and you say, “If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.” Thus you testify against yourselves that you are descendants of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your ancestors.’ In today’s reading we find Jesus confronting the scribes and Pharisees on their outward appearance and the hypocrisy of their inner lives. Tombs in those days were painted white, making them shine, so that no one would touch them by accident and become unclean. Jesus accuses the scribes and pharisees of looking white like these tombs but on the inside filled with the filth of hypocrisy and lawlessness. Imagine now that you are standing in the crowd as Jesus is making his accusations. How do you feel? In your place among the crowd, take a moment to ask yourself the question, “Is there any way in which I am like a whitewashed tomb, looking good on the outside but unclean within? As the reading is read again, continue to imagine that you are with the crowd as they listen. Matthew 23:27-32 ‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful, but inside they are full of the bones of the dead and of all kinds of filth. So you also on the outside look righteous to others, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. ‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous, and you say, “If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.” Thus you testify against yourselves that you are descendants of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your ancestors.’ Jesus says, “Fill up, then, the measure of your ancestors.” The scribes and Pharisees have long been rejecting the prophets and will also reject Jesus himself. As we come to an end of our prayer today, picture yourself walking away from this scene, just you, alone with the Lord. Speak with the Lord about any thoughts and feelings that have arisen for you today, as one friend with another. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 25 August 2026

Today is Tuesday the 25th of August, in the 21st week of Ordinary Time. Michael George and the Corydon Singers, conducted by Matthew Best sing Libera Me from Fauré’s Requiem. ‘Deliver me, O Lord, from everlasting death, on that dread day when the heavens and earth shall quake and you shall come to judge the earth by fire.’ Today’s reading is from Psalm 96 (or Psalm 95 in some translations). Psalm 96:10-13 Say among the nations, ‘The Lord is king! The world is firmly established; it shall never be moved. He will judge the peoples with equity.’ Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it. Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord; for he is coming, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with his truth. In our psalm today we hear about how the Lord will come to judge the earth; the nations and the peoples. ‘He will judge the peoples with equity.’ Today, where in your life or in the wider world do you most long to see fairness and judgement? When we encounter injustice, we may experience bitterness or anger or have feelings of powerlessness. But the psalmist also expresses praise of God. So, can both longing for justice and praise for the Lord become a part of your prayer? As you listen to the psalm again, notice the images of joy expressed at the thought of the coming of the King. Which image most excites you? Psalm 96:10-13 Say among the nations, ‘The Lord is king! The world is firmly established; it shall never be moved. He will judge the peoples with equity.’ Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it. Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord; for he is coming, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with his truth. As you approach the end of your prayer, take a moment in prayer to join in with the praise of all creation with both longing and joy as you anticipate the coming of the Lord. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 24 August 2026

Today is Monday the 24th of August, the feast of Saint Bartholomew, in the 21st week of Ordinary Time. Salt of the Sound sings, ‘How Great Thou Art’. Whatever you are doing, set it aside for a moment. Open your heart, your soul, your whole being to God, who is waiting for you. God sees you and loves you. How will you respond? When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart Then I shall bow in humble adoration And there proclaim: "My God, how great thou art!" Then sings my soul, my Saviour-God, to thee How great thou art! How great thou art! Then sings my soul, my Saviour-God, to thee How great thou art! How great thou art! Today’s reading is from the Gospel of John. John 1:45-51 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.’ Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’ When Jesus saw Nathanael coming towards him, he said of him, ‘Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!’ Nathanael asked him, ‘Where did you come to know me?’ Jesus answered, ‘I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you.’ Nathanael replied, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!’ Jesus answered, ‘Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than these.’ And he said to him, ‘Very truly, I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.’ In our reading today, we hear of the first meeting of Nathanael and Jesus, when Jesus says of Nathanael, “Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!” What do you think Jesus might say of you, if he encountered you right now? This is a profound moment for Nathanael, who is amazed to discover that Jesus knows him well, simply from observing him under the fig tree. Call to mind a time when you have encountered Jesus in prayer, a moment when you realized that he knew you well, and you perhaps began a deeper relationship with him. As you listen to the scripture again, picture this scene as if you are present and watch Nathanael and see how he is being changed by meeting Jesus. John 1:45-51 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.’ Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’ When Jesus saw Nathanael coming towards him, he said of him, ‘Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!’ Nathanael asked him, ‘Where did you come to know me?’ Jesus answered, ‘I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you.’ Nathanael replied, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!’ Jesus answered, ‘Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than these.’ And he said to him, ‘Very truly, I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.’ Nathanael has moved from his question of “Can anything good come out of Nazareth, to declaring, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God!” “You are the King of Israel!” End your time of prayer today by joining Nathanael in his words of praise. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 23 August 2026

Today is Sunday the 23rd of August, beginning the 21st week of Ordinary Time. As you begin this time of prayer, try to let go of whatever has been occupying your mind. You can also set your worries aside for a while. Simply be present and open yourself to God's presence. Jon Guerra and Audrey Assad guide us into prayer today with the song, ‘Declaring Glory’. When I was young You woke me with the sound of song The wind and rhythm drew me along I echoed in the hymn of the dawn I turned, and turned This dance that all the planets learned In circles, 'round the stars as they burned I praise You as I orbit and turn Declaring glory, glory Declaring glory, glory The mountains rise The forests grow before my eyes The moments and the seasons in mind Then turn again, embracing the tide The waters fall And carve their way across my soil Their canyons cutting deep in my soul I praise You while the rivers still roar Declaring glory, glory Declaring glory, glory New life begins Your creatures dance across my skin Like me, they have Your Spirit within But soon they fade away as I spin They fall to dust And dress me in decay and rust Their secrets buried deep in my crust I praise You in the layers of dust Declaring glory, glory Declaring glory, glory All the rocks wear down Beneath passing of the crowds The rivers run until they run out I praise You till my fire's run out I praise You till my fire's run out I praise You till my fire's run out I'll praise my Maker in every age I'll praise my Maker in every age I'll praise my Maker in every age (glory, glory) I'll praise my Maker in every age (glory, glory) Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Romans. Romans 11:33-36 O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgements and how inscrutable his ways! ‘For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counsellor?’ ‘Or who has given a gift to him, to receive a gift in return?’ For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory for ever. Amen. For Paul, the writer of the book of Romans, the immeasurable qualities of God are almost beyond words. His understanding of God is beyond comprehension. The night sky or a beautiful sunset can help us engage with the vastness of God. When and where have you been captivated by the enormity and majesty of God? If you are able, look outside at creation or look around and ponder these words, ‘From him… are all things.’ All created things come from God. Each plant, each creature and each person are a gift from God. A gift for you to delight in and find God in. Take a moment to delight in some of these gifts in your own life. ‘To him be glory for ever.’ Listen again and allow your heart to soar at the wonder of God revealed in a myriad of ways. Romans 11:33-36 O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgements and how inscrutable his ways! ‘For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counsellor?’ ‘Or who has given a gift to him, to receive a gift in return?’ For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory for ever. Amen. ‘For from him, through him and to him are all things.’ All created things means you as well! You come from him, you exist through him and you are intended for his glory. Talk with God about your response to these words. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 22 August 2026

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. This week we’ve pondered the tenderness of God’s love in Psalm 23 and the enormity and majesty of God’s love in Romans. In our Gospel readings, Jesus challenged us to return that love ‘with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ Begin your prayer today by placing yourself in God’s tender loving gaze. The loving gaze of your Shepherd who leads you to still waters and restores your soul. Breathe in His love for you and allow it to restore your soul. Then consider the beauty and vastness of creation and how you are part of God’s handiwork. Look back over your week. Are you able to recall a time when you experienced either the tenderness or the vastness of God’s love? Thank God for this awareness. And when has it been difficult to experience God’s love? Speak with God about this and ask Him for what you need. As you look to the week ahead, what from today’s prayer might you want to take with you? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 21 August 2026

Today is Friday the 21st of August, the feast of Saint Pius X, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Draw close to the loving God during this time of prayer—with your heart, your mind, your soul and your body. Ask to know God's closeness and His love. Paul Zach with The Porter’s Gate sings, ‘The Greatest Commandment’. Love the Lord your God With all your heart and soul and mind And love your neighbour as yourself Love the Lord your God With all your heart and soul and mind And love your neighbour as yourself Let us be known, let us be known By the way we love Let us be known, let us be known By the way we love Love the Lord your God With all your heart and soul and mind And love your neighbour as yourself Love, love, love, the greatest commandment is Love, love, love, the greatest commandment is Love, love, love, the greatest commandment is love Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 22:34-40 When the Pharisees heard that [Jesus] had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, and one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. ‘Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?’ He said to him, ‘“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’ Experiencing God’s love creates a desire to love God in return. The more we experience this love, the more we feel compelled to love God more deeply. God loves us in a myriad of ways: through creation, the love of others, scriptures, personal moments of encounter and many more. How have you experienced God’s love in your life? Loving God with ‘all your heart… all your soul and … all your mind’ is a fully embodied love. A self-offering of our deepest emotions, desires, identity, thoughts and decisions. How might God be inviting you to deepen your love for Him today? As we receive God’s love, it also spills over into love for our neighbour and for ourselves. As you listen again, notice where you’re most drawn to - love for God, for self or others? Matthew 22:34-40 When the Pharisees heard that [Jesus] had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, and one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. ‘Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?’ He said to him, ‘“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’ The reading started with the Pharisees asking Jesus a question. Take a moment to imagine Jesus with you. Is there a question in your heart? Talk with Jesus about this and be ready for his response. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 20 August 2026

Today is Thursday the 20th of August, the feast of Saint Bernard, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of the Abbey of Keur Moussa sing Psalm 146: “It is good to sing in honour of our God - sweet is his praise. The Lord, Restorer of Jerusalem! He brought back Israel's exiles, healing their broken hearts, and binding up their wounds.” Perhaps there are wounds you would like to bring to God for healing today. As you listen, let God meet you with love, wherever you are. Today’s reading is from the Prophet Ezekiel. Ezekiel 36:23-28 I will sanctify my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them; and the nations shall know that I am the Lord, says the Lord God, when through you I display my holiness before their eyes. I will take you from the nations, and gather you from all the countries, and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. I will put my spirit within you, and make you follow my statutes and be careful to observe my ordinances. Then you shall live in the land that I gave to your ancestors; and you shall be my people, and I will be your God. God has been in the business of restoring since the beginning of time. Lovingly stripping off fake veneers, repairing broken parts and revealing the hidden beauty in each one of us. Today’s passage invites you to enter into the vulnerability of being restored. Take a moment to place yourself in the presence of your God, the Restorer. God says I will ‘sprinkle clean water on you and you shall be clean.’ I will give you ‘a new heart,’ and ‘I will put my spirit within you.’ This is God’s gift to you. Are you desiring or resisting this restorative love? Why might this be? Listen again and delight in God’s desire to restore nations and people. Ezekiel 36:23-28 I will sanctify my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them; and the nations shall know that I am the Lord, says the Lord God, when through you I display my holiness before their eyes. I will take you from the nations, and gather you from all the countries, and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. I will put my spirit within you, and make you follow my statutes and be careful to observe my ordinances. Then you shall live in the land that I gave to your ancestors; and you shall be my people, and I will be your God. Being restored deepens our relationship with God and others. ‘You shall be my people, and I will be your God.’ It also enables us to ‘display His holiness before the eyes of others.’ How might God be inviting you to display his holiness to those around you today? Talk with God about this. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 19 August 2026

Today is Wednesday the 19th of August, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Stephen and Fiona Crowther of the Lee Abbey Community sings, ‘Shepherd’. As we prepare to pray with Psalm 23 today, begin by drawing to mind imagery of green pastures and sheep, and of a shepherd’s great care. Today’s reading is from Psalm 23. Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long. Believed to be written by King David some 3,000 years ago, these familiar and comforting words still resonate with us today. ‘The Lord is my shepherd… He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.’ The Lord is lovingly working for you – inviting rest, guiding and restoring. How is God working for you in your life? The effect of this loving action and assurance of God’s goodness on the psalmist’s soul enables him to say, ‘I fear no evil; for you are with me.’ What does the Lord’s loving action on your soul enable you to say? Listen again and notice how, even in the tough times, the psalmist describes the nearness of the Lord. Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long. ‘Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long.’ Look ahead: when may you need to know the Lord’s goodness, mercy and presence with you today? Talk with God about this. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 18 August 2026

Today is Tuesday the 18th of August, the feast of Saint Alberto Hurtado Cruchaga SJ, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of Pluscarden Abbey sing Laetetur cor quaerentium: Let the heart of those who seek the Lord rejoice; seek the Lord and be strengthened, seek his face always. Entering into prayer today, allow yourself to seek the Lord; to seek his face, searching for the signs of his presence in your life, gently guiding you in truth and peace and love. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 19:23-30 Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Truly I tell you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’ When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astounded and said, ‘Then who can be saved?’ But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.’ Then Peter said in reply, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?’ Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man is seated on the throne of his glory, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.’ ‘It’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven.’ Jesus’ use of hyperbole at the beginning of our reading elicits strong feelings of impossibility in the disciples. Thinking they can earn their salvation Jesus reminds them that, ‘For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.’ What stirs in your heart when you hear that your salvation is an undeserved gift from God? ‘For God all things are possible.’ How do these words bring comfort to you today? Eternal riches can be found through spiritual poverty on earth. As the words are read again, hear how the cost of following Jesus leads to the promised gift of eternal life. God gives abundantly more than we can ever give. Thank God for his generosity. Matthew 19:23-30 Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Truly I tell you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’ When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astounded and said, ‘Then who can be saved?’ But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.’ Then Peter said in reply, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?’ Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man is seated on the throne of his glory, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.’ ‘Many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.’ Jesus knows that coming first or coming last has the potential to alter how you see God, yourself and those around you. Might there be a challenge in this for you? Talk with Jesus about it. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 17 August 2026

Today is Monday the 17th of August, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Over these next few minutes, become still, ready to let go, and to open yourself to the life and love to which God is calling you. Today, the community of Taizé sing Gott ist nur Liebe. ‘God is nothing but love. Dare to give all for love. Give yourselves without fear.’ Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 19:16-22 Then someone came to [Jesus] and said, ‘Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?’ And he said to him, ‘Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.’ He said to him, ‘Which ones?’ And Jesus said, ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; Honour your father and mother; also, You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ The young man said to him, ‘I have kept all these; what do I still lack?’ Jesus said to him, ‘If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.’ When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions. Jesus speaks today of those commandments which relate to how he loves others, including ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ Consider the people in your own life. How do you demonstrate your love to them? Notice that in loving others, you offer something of yourself to them. Perhaps you give your time, your money or you love others through your actions. Take a moment to notice the different ways you give yourself in loving others. Hear the man’s desire to love God even more, as he asks, ‘What do I still lack?’ Jesus’ response touches the place where the depth of love being desired challenges the man’s ability to give in that moment. As you listen to the reading again, are you able to ask the same question to Jesus, ‘What do I still lack?’ Matthew 19:16-22 Then someone came to [Jesus] and said, ‘Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?’ And he said to him, ‘Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.’ He said to him, ‘Which ones?’ And Jesus said, ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; Honour your father and mother; also, You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ The young man said to him, ‘I have kept all these; what do I still lack?’ Jesus said to him, ‘If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.’ When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions. This is a story of invitation to ‘come and follow’ Jesus. A story which leads to greater spiritual freedom. Might there be something in your own life which you’re being invited to lay down? Something which will free you to love God and love others more deeply? Share with God anything which seems to surface. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 16 August 2026

Today is Sunday the 16th of August, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, beginning the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Nóirín Ní Riain sings the Magnificat, the song of Mary: “My soul glorifies the Lord. My Spirit rejoices in God my Saviour. He looks on his servant in her lowliness. Henceforth, all ages will call me blessed.” As I listen, can I sense the Lord looking on me in my lowliness, and can I rejoice in him and in all that he does for me? Today’s reading is from Gospel of Luke. Luke 1:39-56 In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leapt in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leapt for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.’ And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’ And Mary remained with her for about three months and then returned to her home. Mary is the archetypal disciple in whom we see all that we can become through the power of God, despite our human doubts and weakness. She questions the angel at the Annunciation, and questions again when her son goes missing in the Temple: How can this be? Why have you done this? Elizabeth's greeting today meets not a serene, untroubled figure but a young woman who asks awkward questions, walking by faith and not by sight. Where does your own faith look more like Mary's questioning than like certainty? Can you let that be enough? Jesus does not single his mother out for her biological role, but honours her as one who hears God's word and brings it to life. In the Magnificat, Mary takes the word she has received and lets it become a song that overturns the proud, lifts the lowly, fills the hungry. Where is God's word asking to take flesh in your own life at the moment, rather than remaining only an idea you hold? Listen again to the Magnificat itself, and notice where Mary's words become, for a moment, a prayer that you might make your own. Luke 1:39-56 And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’ Orthodox icons of the Assumption, known as the Dormition, show Jesus cradling his mother’s body and soul, wrapped in a shroud, as she is born into everlasting life. They echo the Nativity icons in which Mary cradles him. Together the icons say that all human experience, body and soul, doubt and question included, is destined for glory through God’s saving power. Can you entrust your whole self, body and soul, faith and doubt together, into God’s hands? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 15 August 2026

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. As the week draws to a close, I look back over these days of prayer and let them settle into a single, quiet review. I remember Laurence, giving away without counting the cost, and Paul's insistence that God loves a cheerful giver. Where, this week, have I given freely, and where have I noticed myself holding back? I remember Clare's determined littleness, and the shepherd who left the ninety-nine to search for the one that strayed. Have I been able to let go of some small security this week? And have I recognized a moment of being sought by God when I myself had wandered? I remember the hard, practical honesty of Wednesday's gospel: go and tell the one you have quarrelled with their fault, between the two of you alone. I remember the promise of Christ's presence wherever two or three are gathered in his name, even in difficult conversations. Is there a relationship that is still asking something of me in this respect? I remember Ezekiel, told that he lived among a people with eyes to see who did not see, and asked to act out God's word at the cost of his own dignity. Where, this week, have I noticed something I would rather not have noticed? I remember Maximilian Kolbe, whose trust in God did not remove his fear but gave him courage to face it in the darkness. I recall Isaiah's promise of joy drawn from the wells of salvation whatever the circumstances. Where, this week, have I found the kind of joy that does not depend on things going well? I bring all of this: the giving and the holding back, the freedom to let myself be little, the insecurity, the honesty and the avoidance, the seeing and the not seeing, the trust and the fear, into God's presence. I ask for the grace to begin the week ahead a little more freely and trustingly. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 14 August 2026

Today is Friday the 14th of August, the feast of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. Paul Zach sings, ‘Nothing to Fear’. How do you receive these words? How might you gently place all your hope and trust in God today? When you pass through the waters I will be with you And the depths of the river shall not overwhelm When you walk through the fire you will not be burned I am the Lord, I am the Lord And there is nothing to fear, nothing to fear There is nothing to fear, nothing to fear For I am with you always In the depths of your sorrow I wept beside you When you walked through the shadow I drew you near And yesterday, today, tomorrow, always the same I am the Lord, I am the Lord And there is nothing to fear, nothing to fear There is nothing to fear, nothing to fear For I am with you always And there is nothing to fear, nothing to fear There is nothing to fear, nothing to fear For I am with you always What can separate you from My perfect Love What can separate you from My perfect Love What can separate you from My perfect Love Do not fear Do not fear Do not fear Today’s reading is from the Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah 12:2-6 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. And you will say on that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known his deeds among the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth. Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. Isaiah says: surely God is my salvation; I will trust and will not be afraid. Maximilian Kolbe, whose feast falls today, is remembered for offering his life in place of a stranger in the starvation bunker at Auschwitz. He led the other condemned men in prayer and singing as they waited to die. His trust clearly did not remove his fear but went on alongside it. Is there anywhere in your life that trust and fear are having to sit together, rather than one simply replacing the other? Isaiah promises a joy that does not wait for easier circumstances. Kolbe's fellow prisoners spoke of him bringing something like that joy into the bunker itself. Where do you go, or who do you turn to, when you need to draw on joy that has nothing to do with how well things are going? As we listen to the reading once more, let the repeated command to give thanks and sing settle into you. Isaiah 12:2-6 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. And you will say on that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known his deeds among the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth. Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. Is there anyone whose costly love has shown you what trust looks like in practice? What gifts do St. Maximilian’s freedom from fear and courageous love encourage you to ask God for? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 13 August 2026

Today is Thursday the 13th of August, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum: My eyes are on the Lord God. Wherever you are right now, on the way to work, walking in the park, sitting at home, driving… what can you see? What can you see around you? Remember for a moment that God is present in all of this, that all of this has been made by God, and is loved by God, that God holds you, and all of this, in the palm of God's hand. Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum Like the deer that yearns for running streams So my soul is yearning for my God My tears have become my bread day and night As I hear it said: 'Where is your God?′ Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum By day the Lord will send His loving Spirit By night I will sing praises to the God of my life Send out Your light and Your truth as my guide To lead me to Your holy ground Oculi mei ad Dominum Deum Then shall I go to the God of my joy Singing praise, praise on the lyre and the harp Why so downcast my soul? Put your hope and trust in my Saviour, my God Today’s reading is from the Prophet Ezekiel. Ezekiel 12:1-12 The word of the Lord came to me: Mortal, you are living in the midst of a rebellious house, who have eyes to see but do not see, who have ears to hear but do not hear; for they are a rebellious house. Therefore, mortal, prepare for yourself an exile’s baggage, and go into exile by day in their sight; you shall go like an exile from your place to another place in their sight. Perhaps they will understand, though they are a rebellious house. You shall bring out your baggage by day in their sight, as baggage for exile; and you shall go out yourself at evening in their sight, as those do who go into exile. Dig through the wall in their sight, and carry the baggage through it. In their sight you shall lift the baggage on your shoulder, and carry it out in the dark; you shall cover your face, so that you may not see the land; for I have made you a sign for the house of Israel. I did just as I was commanded. I brought out my baggage by day, as baggage for exile, and in the evening I dug through the wall with my own hands; I brought it out in the dark, carrying it on my shoulder in their sight. In the morning the word of the Lord came to me: Mortal, has not the house of Israel, the rebellious house, said to you, ‘What are you doing?’ Say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God: This oracle concerns the prince in Jerusalem and all the house of Israel in it.’ Say, ‘I am a sign for you: as I have done, so shall it be done to them; they shall go into exile, into captivity.’ And the prince who is among them shall lift his baggage on his shoulder in the dark, and shall go out; he shall dig through the wall and carry it through; he shall cover his face, so that he may not see the land with his eyes. God tells Ezekiel that he lives among a people who have eyes to see but do not see, ears to hear but do not hear. It’s a hard, uncomfortable line, because it so easily describes any one of us. Where might you have eyes to see but, if you are honest, choose not to? Ezekiel is not simply asked to speak a message; he is asked to act one out in public, packing his bags like an exile, digging through a wall, covering his face, in full view of people who will mock or misunderstand him. Has following God ever made you feel foolish, or exposed, in the eyes of people around you? How have you dealt with that? Listen again to the first part of this reading, and notice what it costs Ezekiel simply to obey. The word of the Lord came to me: Mortal, you are living in the midst of a rebellious house, who have eyes to see but do not see, who have ears to hear but do not hear; for they are a rebellious house. Therefore, mortal, prepare for yourself an exile’s baggage, and go into exile by day in their sight; you shall go like an exile from your place to another place in their sight. Perhaps they will understand, though they are a rebellious house. You shall bring out your baggage by day in their sight, as baggage for exile; and you shall go out yourself at evening in their sight, as those do who go into exile. Dig through the wall in their sight, and carry the baggage through it. In their sight you shall lift the baggage on your shoulder, and carry it out in the dark; you shall cover your face, so that you may not see the land; for I have made you a sign for the house of Israel. If you suspect you have been choosing not to see, can you ask God for clearer sight? Speak honestly about what it would cost you to act on what you already know. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 12 August 2026

Today is Wednesday the 12th of August, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. The Choir of Royal Holloway sings ‘One in Christ’, by George Arthur: ‘When we were still far off, you met us in Your Son’. As you begin to pray today, notice the work of reconciliation God is doing in your life at the moment. It might be slow, but become aware of Christ’s work, even in the small details. When we were still far off you met us in your Son and brought us home. Dying and living you declared your love and opened the gate of glory. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 18:15-20 ‘If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax-collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’ Jesus gives a very practical instruction for what to do when someone has wronged you: go and point out the fault, but privately, between the two of you alone, not to a third party first, or to everyone but the person concerned. Where do you find it easier to talk about a hurt than to talk to the person who caused it? The passage ends with a promise: where two or three are gathered in Christ's name, he is there among them. That promise is made not in the context of worship but in the middle of a passage about conflict and reconciliation. Have you ever recognized, only afterwards, that Christ was present in a difficult conversation you would rather have avoided? Listen to the reading again, paying attention to how much care Jesus takes over each stage of this process. Matthew 18:15-20 ‘If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax-collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’ If there is a relationship in your life that needs this kind of honesty, bring it to God now, and ask for the courage to begin, gently, with the person concerned. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 11 August 2026

Today is Tuesday the 11th of August, the feast of Saint Clare, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. As you listen to today’s song, notice if anything stands out to you in the lyrics. Can you turn this into a short prayer? Jon Guerra sings, ‘Who Is Greatest?’ Who is greatest in the kingdom? The kingdom of heaven Who would you say? Not the rich and not the strong Not the brilliant, but the small Lowly ones will be made first To inherit the universe So become like children And you will be the greatest In the kingdom of heaven So don't despise any small ones I tell you, their prayers always reach God Just like oak trees in a field They’ll stand tall when all is healed Lowly ones will be made first To inherit the universe So become like children And you will be the greatest In the kingdom of heaven Don't be afraid Don't be afraid I’m with you 'til the end of the age Lowly ones will be made first To inherit the universe So become like children And you will be the greatest In the kingdom of heaven Who, then, is greatest in the kingdom? The kingdom of heaven Who would you say? Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. ‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven. ‘What do you think? If a shepherd has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.’ The disciples want to know who is greatest, and Jesus’ answer puts a child among them, measuring greatness not by status but by littleness. Clare of Assisi, whose feast falls today, fought her whole life to keep her sisters in that same littleness, insisting on what she called the privilege of poverty. What status, security or standing do you find yourself reluctant to let go of? The shepherd leaves the ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that has strayed and rejoices over it more than over all the rest. It is not the will of the Father that even one of these little ones should be lost. Can you recall a time when you knew yourself sought out like that, not because you had earned it, but simply because you had wandered? Listen to the reading again, and let yourself be, this time, the child, or the one sheep who is searched for. Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. ‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven. ‘What do you think? If a shepherd has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.’ Clare’s joyful littleness was fierce and determined. Is there a place in you that still wants the security of being counted great, or are you willing to let go and let your truest self be found instead? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 10 August 2026

Today is Monday the 10th of August, the feast of Saint Laurence, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. In our song today we hear the words of the Suscipe, a prayer known to be prayed by St Ignatius of Loyola: ‘You have given all to me, to You Lord, I return it.’ As you enter into this time of stillness, what can you offer the Lord today? Listen as Hannah Boesen, with The Porter’s Gate, sings, ‘Do With It What You Will’. You have given all to me To you O Lord I return it Everything I have is Yours Do with it what You will Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians. 2 Corinthians 9:6-10 The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. As it is written, ‘He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever.’ He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. Paul tells the Corinthians that the one who sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will reap bountifully. St. Laurence took that teaching to its limit: a deacon of Rome entrusted with the Church's wealth; he is remembered for telling the prefect who demanded the treasures be handed over that the poor themselves were the true treasure of the Church. Where in your own life are you sowing sparingly out of caution, when something in you already suspects you could sow more freely? Paul says that giving should never be reluctant or under compulsion, but cheerful, because God is able to provide every blessing in abundance. What would it take for your own giving of time, attention or resources to feel less like a transaction and more like an overflow of that abundance? As we listen to the reading once more, notice which phrase about sowing, giving, or abundance catches your attention this time. 2 Corinthians 9:6-10 The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. As it is written, ‘He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever.’ He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. Talk to God now about what you find easy to give, and what you hold back. Can you ask Laurence's boldness for yourself where generosity still feels like a risk rather than a gift? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 9 August 2026

Today is Sunday the 9th of August, beginning the 19th week of Ordinary Time. The Chamber Orchestra of London, directed by Alistair King play a setting of Psalm 46, God is our refuge and strength: a help in the trials that would crush us. So we will not be afraid... when the earth heaves, and the mountains are thrown into the depths of the seas. As you enter into prayer today, ask yourself what you are afraid of. Can you hear the words of Jesus? Do not be afraid. Today’s reading is from Saint Paul's Letter to the Romans. Matthew 14:22-33 Immediately [Jesus] made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. And early in the morning he came walking towards them on the lake. But when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came towards Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ As you rest in this quiet, gently call to mind your own journey of faith. Over the past year, how has your trust in God grown or changed? Notice where that trust has deepened, and where it may still feel fragile or uncertain. Hold all of this gently before God. Growing in trust is often not straightforward. There are moments when we feel shaken, or surprised by how God comes close to us. Take a moment now to remember a time of uncertainty in your life. What was happening? How did you feel? And as you recall this moment, notice how God was present - perhaps quietly… perhaps unexpectedly… How did that presence give you strength to endure or to move forward? Now, as you listen again to the Gospel story of Jesus walking on the water… Notice Peter. Watch his courage, his hesitation, his fear, his trust. Allow yourself to enter into his experience. Have you known similar moments of stepping out in faith? Have you felt both trust and doubt at the same time? Our God does not rush or pressure but patiently invites us to grow in trust at our own pace. Matthew 14:22-33 Immediately [Jesus] made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. And early in the morning he came walking towards them on the lake. But when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came towards Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ As this time of prayer comes to a close, speak with Jesus as you would with a close friend. Share with him: the ways your trust has grown, the places where you still struggle, the desires you carry in your heart. Ask Jesus to draw you more deeply into a trusting relationship with him - to follow him more closely, and to trust him more fully. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 8 August 2026

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. As you begin this time of prayer, take a moment to become aware of yourself and your surroundings. If it helps, gently close your eyes. Notice your breathing. Slowly inhale… and exhale. As you breathe in, imagine the breath of God filling you with life. As you breathe out, let go of the distractions and burdens of the week. Before reviewing your week, invite God to be with you. Ask for the grace to see your week as God sees it - with kindness, truth, and gentle understanding. Now, begin to look back over your week, as if watching a film in slow motion. Recall the beginning of the week. What was happening? Move to the middle of the week. How were you feeling? Come to the end of the week. How did things unfold? As you watch these moments, notice the rhythms - the ebbs and flows - of your experiences. As you look back: What are you thankful for? Where did you notice moments of hope, joy, or peace? When did you feel most alive or encouraged? Now gently turn to the more difficult parts of your week. When did you experience tension, frustration, or anxiety? What weighed heavily on you? In these moments, where was God? Perhaps hidden, perhaps inviting you, perhaps simply present. Speak honestly with God about these experiences. As you come to the end of this examen, place your week before God. Thank God for all the ways God has been present—seen and unseen. Now look toward the week ahead: What important moments are coming? What do you hope for? What do you need? Ask God to accompany you in all that lies ahead. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 7 August 2026

Today is Friday the 7th of August, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Hannah Boesen with The Porter’s Gate sings, ‘As You Deserve’, from Companion Songs. This song was written with Pray As You Go and inspired by St Ignatius’ Prayer for Generosity: Lord, teach me to be generous, to serve you as you deserve, to give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labour and not to look for any reward, save that of knowing that I do your holy will. You might like to carry these words into prayer today... Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 16:24-28 Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life? ‘For the Son of Man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay everyone for what has been done. Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.’ In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks of the path of discipleship as one of dedication and self-offering. As you settle into prayer, bring to mind the sacrifices - large or small - that you have made along your journey of faith. Moments when you have chosen love, service, or trust. Stay with those memories for a moment…and quietly thank God for the grace that flowed from them. The Christian journey is a continual turning of the heart - a gentle reassessment of how we are walking, whether towards God’s presence… or away from it. As you continue praying, notice if there is some part of your life that is still in need of change or renewal. Without fear or hesitation, offer this part of yourself to the merciful presence of the God of compassion. Jesus’ words may feel challenging, but they are also filled with promise - a promise of life, fullness, and completion for those who follow him. As you listen again to this Gospel passage, pay close attention to the words of Jesus. Let them echo within you. What might the fullness of God’s presence look like in your own life? How do you imagine that promise taking shape? Matthew 16:24-28 Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life? ‘For the Son of Man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay everyone for what has been done. Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.’ Finally, take a moment now to speak with Jesus as you would with a trusted friend. Share your hopes… your fears… your desires… and your worries. And as you do, allow his gentle, transforming presence to meet you… to console you… and to lead you forward. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 6 August 2026

Today is Thursday the 6th of August, the feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Steffany Gretzinger sings, ‘Show Me Your Face’. As we begin this time of prayer, you might like to make this your prayer: ‘Let me see your face, O Lord’. Moses stood on a mountain Waiting for You to pass by You put Your hand over his face So in Your Presence, he wouldn't die And all of Israel saw the glory And it shines down through the age Now You've called me To boldly seek Your Face Show me Your face, Lord Show me Your face And then gird up my legs That I might stand in this holy place Show me Your face, Lord Your power and Your grace Your power and grace I would make it to the end If I can just see Your face David knew there was something more Than the ark of Your presence In a manger Messiah was born Among kings and peasants And all of Israel saw the glory And it shines down through the age Now You've called us To boldly seek Your face Show me Your face, Lord Show me Your face And then gird up my legs That I might stand in this holy place Show me Your face, Lord Your power and Your grace Your power and grace I will make it to the end If I can just see Your face I know I will make it to the end If I can just see Your face Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 17:1-9 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!’ When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, ‘Get up and do not be afraid.’ And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, ‘Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.’ As you start this time of prayer, bring to mind those unexpected moments in your life when God’s presence became clear to you - perhaps quietly, perhaps with surprising light. The disciples are overwhelmed by the radiance shining from Jesus - a glimpse of glory they did not expect. In their amazement, they want to hold on to this moment, to build tents and remain in that place of comfort and certainty. As you stay with this image, notice if something similar stirs in your own heart. Have there been times when you have wanted to hold on to a moment of consolation? To make your faith a place of comfort alone? Gently ask yourself: Where might I be trying to “build tents” in my spiritual life? What might be inviting me to move beyond them? The light of Christ does not remain still. It draws us forward. As you listen again to this Gospel passage, pay attention to Jesus - to his words… to his actions… to the quiet authority of his presence. What is his light awakening in you? What is he inviting you to do? Matthew 17:1-9 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!’ When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, ‘Get up and do not be afraid.’ And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, ‘Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.’ Finally, take a moment to speak with Jesus, as one speaks with a close friend. Share your hopes… your desires… your dreams. And then listen. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 5 August 2026

Today is Wednesday the 5th of August, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. The King’s Singers sing Spem in Alium by Thomas Tallis. ‘I have never put my hope in any other but in you’. As you begin this time of prayer today, can you speak those words to God? Can you place all your hope, all your trust, all your faith in him? Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 15:21-28 Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.’ But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.’ He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, help me.’ He answered, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ She said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly. Today’s Gospel brings before us the persistent faith of the Canaanite woman. Despite a lack of response, she continues to call out to Jesus, trusting that he will hear her. As you begin, you might recall moments when persistence in faith - your own, or that of others - has made a difference. Times when hope did not fade… Times when God’s healing presence found a way into your life. As the story unfolds, even the disciples seem uneasy, wanting to send the woman away. Their desire to protect what is familiar becomes a barrier. Gently ask yourself: Have there been moments when I have been slow to welcome others? Times when I have been wary of what is new, or hesitant to listen to voices from the margins? Bring those moments before God now, without fear. And, if you can, ask for the grace to see as God sees… and for forgiveness where it is needed. This is a God who both challenges and listens. A God who meets persistence with compassion. As you listen again, in your imagination, to the exchange between Jesus and the woman, notice the words that stay with you…the tone… the movement of the encounter. Allow whatever stirs within you to surface. Matthew 15:21-28 Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.’ But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.’ He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, help me.’ He answered, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ She said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly. And now, speak to Jesus as one friend speaks to another. Share what is on your heart - your desires, your questions, your hopes. What is Jesus inviting you to do with the faith you have received? How might you be called to trust more deeply… or to persevere more faithfully? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 4 August 2026

Today is Tuesday the 4th of August, the feast of Saint John Vianney, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Salt of the Sound sings, ‘O The Deep, Deep Love of Jesus’. Whether it is morning, afternoon or evening, Jesus is with you. He longs to be with you. Perhaps you long for Him too. Allow Him to come close. O the deep, deep love of Jesus Vast, unmeasured, boundless, free Rolling as a mighty ocean In its fullness over me Underneath me, all around me Is the current of thy love Leading onward, leading homeward To thy glorious rest above O the deep, deep love of Jesus Spread his praise from shore to shore How he loves us, ever loves us Changes never, nevermore How he watches o'er his loved ones Died to call them all his own How for them he's interceding Watching o'er them from the throne O the deep, deep love of Jesus 'Tis a heav'n of heav'ns to me And it lifts me up to glory For it lifts me up to thee Today’s reading is from the Prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah 30:1-2, 12-15, 18-22 The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: Write in a book all the words that I have spoken to you. For thus says the Lord: Your hurt is incurable, your wound is grievous. There is no one to uphold your cause, no medicine for your wound, no healing for you. All your lovers have forgotten you; they care nothing for you; for I have dealt you the blow of an enemy, the punishment of a merciless foe, because your guilt is great, because your sins are so numerous. Why do you cry out over your hurt? Your pain is incurable. Because your guilt is great, because your sins are so numerous, I have done these things to you. Thus says the Lord: I am going to restore the fortunes of the tents of Jacob, and have compassion on his dwellings; the city shall be rebuilt upon its mound, and the citadel set on its rightful site. Out of them shall come thanksgiving, and the sound of merrymakers. I will make them many, and they shall not be few; I will make them honoured, and they shall not be disdained. Their children shall be as of old, their congregation shall be established before me; and I will punish all who oppress them. Their prince shall be one of their own, their ruler shall come from their midst; I will bring him near, and he shall approach me, for who would otherwise dare to approach me? says the Lord. And you shall be my people, and I will be your God. Like an honest friend after a disagreement, when God speaks through the prophets, the first words can sound harsh. But they give way to a deeper desire—the desire to heal and to restore. At times, we too can feel that parts of our lives are beyond healing, too painful, too complicated. As you begin this prayer, bring those places before God. What feels beyond his reach? Gently place it in his hands. God does not give up on us, or on our struggles. He looks on us with compassion. He longs to restore us to the fullness of his love. As you continue in prayer, imagine God looking at you. A gaze that sees your fragility… and also sees the good planted deep within you. Stay with that gaze for a moment. The eyes of God are not harsh or condemning, but full of mercy. As you listen to this passage again, notice what stirs in you. Even if some words feel challenging, stay open. Where might you be invited to change, or to trust more deeply in what God can transform within you? Jeremiah 30:1-2, 12-15, 18-22 The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: Write in a book all the words that I have spoken to you. For thus says the Lord: Your hurt is incurable, your wound is grievous. There is no one to uphold your cause, no medicine for your wound, no healing for you. All your lovers have forgotten you; they care nothing for you; for I have dealt you the blow of an enemy, the punishment of a merciless foe, because your guilt is great, because your sins are so numerous. Why do you cry out over your hurt? Your pain is incurable. Because your guilt is great, because your sins are so numerous, I have done these things to you. Thus says the Lord: I am going to restore the fortunes of the tents of Jacob, and have compassion on his dwellings; the city shall be rebuilt upon its mound, and the citadel set on its rightful site. Out of them shall come thanksgiving, and the sound of merrymakers. I will make them many, and they shall not be few; I will make them honoured, and they shall not be disdained. Their children shall be as of old, their congregation shall be established before me; and I will punish all who oppress them. Their prince shall be one of their own, their ruler shall come from their midst; I will bring him near, and he shall approach me, for who would otherwise dare to approach me? says the Lord. And you shall be my people, and I will be your God. Finally, hold on to the promise of healing and restoration. God speaks it to his people - and to you. Now, speak to him as you would to a friend. Tell him what is in your heart. And thank him for all that he has given you, and for the ways he is leading you to grow more freely and more faithfully in him. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 3 August 2026

Today is Monday the 3rd of August, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Juliano Ravanello sings 'Ubi caritas est vera, Deus ibi est': Wherever love is true, God is there. Where is the love of God present for you today? Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 14:13-21 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.’ Jesus said to them, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’ They replied, ‘We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish.’ And he said, ‘Bring them here to me.’ Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. In this encounter between Jesus and his disciples, attentiveness and vulnerability open the way for grace. Jesus looks at those who follow him with care. And they open themselves to him— in their joys and their concerns, in their strength and their weakness. As you begin this time of prayer, give yourself permission to be as you are before Jesus, your brother and your Lord. Is there something you would like him to heal? Or to restore? In his humanity, Jesus is moved by those who come to him with sincerity. As you imagine the crowd gathered with him in that deserted place, see yourself there. Where are you in the scene? And notice how God might be inviting you to find stillness in the middle of the busyness of your life. Jesus not only invites us to rest with him, but he also invites us to share in his work. As you listen to the passage again, imagine yourself alongside the disciples, sharing the bread and the fish. What is it like to take part? And how might God be inviting you to help feed others—those who are hungry in body or in spirit? Matthew 14:13-21 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.’ Jesus said to them, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’ They replied, ‘We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish.’ And he said, ‘Bring them here to me.’ Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Finally, stay for a moment with the sense of fullness among the crowd. Notice what remains. And then, speak to Jesus as you would to a friend. Tell him what is stirring within you. And thank him for his constant invitation to be part of his mission. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 2 August 2026

Today is Sunday the 2nd of August, beginning the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Ladysmith Black Mambazo sing: ‘Uthando Olungaka’: ‘Who will separate us from the love of God?’ That’s a good thought to enter into prayer with, to begin my prayer today: to rest easy in the love of God, to know that I am safe in that love which nothing and no one can take away from me. Today’s reading is from Saint Paul's Letter to the Romans. Romans 8:35, 37-39 Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. In this passage, Paul is trying to persuade his friends that they have nothing to lose by accepting what God has done for them. He makes a list of things that might make us think we would be separated from the love of Christ: “hardship, distress, persecution, famine, lack of clothes, mortal danger.” Do you see these as “separators” from Christ? Then there is a second list of such perils: “death, life, angels, rulers, present things, past things, future things”. What is your relationship with the things in this list? Perhaps one causes you more concern sometimes than the others. Paul comes to a striking conclusion: “nothing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord”. Ponder for a moment your relationship to this statement... do you really believe this to be true? Now listen as the passage is read once more for you. See if you can allow your heart to go deeper into the consolation this scripture can bring... Romans 8:35, 37-39 Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Finally, just reflect on these last few minutes of prayerful reflection. What are the feelings that you noticed bubbling up inside you? Could you perhaps turn them into a prayer to God? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 1 August 2026

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. On Saturdays we like to look prayerfully and reflectively back at what we have done during this week, both our activities and our praying, to get used to seeing where God has been. Don’t worry if you can’t remember much (or anything) about your week! Let God guide you through the prayer... Take a moment to become still and aware of God’s loving presence with you. Begin by drawing to mind three moments when you felt the touch of God this week. Let them surface naturally. Now think of just two things for which you would like to tell God that you are sorry. Finally think of just one thing that you are being challenged to work on in the coming week. And ask for God’s help. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 31 July 2026

Today is Friday the 31st of July, the feast of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, in the 17th week of Ordinary Time. Today is an important day for us – St Ignatius of Loyola was the founder of the Jesuits, and the spirituality upon which Pray As You Go is built. We invite you to join in celebrating this feast day, especially as we continue to mark our 20th anniversary year. If you would like to consider supporting the work of Pray As You Go, today is a great day to celebrate with us! As we enter into prayer, we will hear Hannah Boesen of The Porter’s Gate singing a version of the Suscipe prayer by St Ignatius: ‘You have given all to me, to you O Lord I return it. Everything I have is Yours, do with it what You will.’ Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. Give no offence to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, so that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. St Ignatius of Loyola lived in such a way that everything was to be done “for the greater glory of God” and encouraged everyone to live as such. We can find this very much present in today’s reading. Paul is instructing those in Corinth to do all things “for the glory of God”, even in their eating and drinking practices. How would living for the glory of God play out in your life? Paul speaks of “not seeking my own advantage”. This too reflects the life of St Ignatius. Can you say the same for your life? How easy or difficult do you find this? Now listen as the passage is read to you once more. This time, was there anything that really stood out for you? 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. Give no offence to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, so that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ”. Speak with Christ about the ways you long to imitate him in a deeper way, in your life. We will end today’s prayer with a sung version of the Glory Be prayer normally prayed at the end. As you listen to, or sing along with this music by Pray As You Go and the Porter’s Gate, what can you offer to the Lord in thanks today? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 30 July 2026

Today is Thursday the 30th of July, in the 17th week of Ordinary Time. The Kyiv Chamber Choir sing In Thy Kingdom from One Thousand Years of Ukrainian Sacred Music. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 13:47-53 ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all this?’ They answered, ‘Yes.’ And he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’ When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. Jesus finishes his chapter of parables with a picture of what “the kingdom of heaven” might be like. What might the Kingdom of Heaven be like, do you think? What story would you offer to describe it? How do you notice yourself responding to this parable of the nets catching fish? Imagine the angels sorting them out at the end of the age... Offer whatever arises in you to the Lord. Listen again to the reading, and ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate the reading for you... Matthew 13:47-53 ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all this?’ They answered, ‘Yes.’ And he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’ When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. 'Have you understood all this?’ Jesus asks. How would you like to respond to this question? What is lingering for you as this time of prayer draws to a close? Speak as one friend to another. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen