Holy Infant Catholic Church
Father Michaels Weekly Thoughts
WEEKLY THOUGHTS 19th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME AUGUST 9th 2026
My dear friends, welcome to the celebration of the 19th Sunday in Ordinary time and the second Sunday in August. The Gospel Reading of last Sunday focused on the multiplication of 5loavs of bread and 2 fish that feed over 5,000 people. The disciples had requested Jesus to send the people to the villages to get themselves food provisions as they were hungry. Jesus challenged his disciples to give food to the hungry crowds themselves. The hungry crowds were fed and 12 wicker baskets of left overs were collected. This miracle revealed the uniqueness of Jesus as the source of nourishment for the Spiritual and physical hunger.
Last Thursday August 6th we celebrated the feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus witnessed by Peter, James and John. “This is my beloved Son I am well pleased, listen to him.” We are called to a prayerful listening of the Spirit of Jesus to radiate the glory of God.
The first Reading of this Sunday 1 Kg 19: 4-8 tells us of Elijah’s experience with God in a tiny, soft whispering or quiet sound- a holy stance for prayer.
In the gospel Mt 14: 22-23 after the miraculous feeding of over 5,000 people, Jesus sends his disciples by boat across the other side of the lake ahead of him; while Jesus resorts to the mountain for prayer.
The boat is challenged by the strong winds during the night which makes it impossible to cross to the other side of the lake. The disciples are astonished and terrified when they saw Jesus walking on the waters towards the boat, and took Jesus to be a ghost. Peter challenges Jesus; “If it is you, let me also walk on the water.” Come, said Jesus. Peter enjoyed the walk on the water for a few moments and got scared and called help from Jesus to save him from sinking.
Jesus took him by hand and saved him and rebuked Peter for his little faith; “How little faith you have!” When Jesus and Peter entered the boat, the wind ceased and the boat sailed safely to their destination. They also confessed; “You are the Son of God.”
Jesus invites everyone to experience his presence in prayer in particular in a quiet enabling environment as was the practice of Jesus. I grow in faith by prayer or praying as well as participating in the Sacramental life. When I falter, God’s merciful love is there. I only need the courage to go for it. I will be able to overcome the spiritual storms by prayer. Lord, increase my faith is the very prayer for everyone called to be a disciple of Jesus.
Mass to celebrate the Assumption of Our Lady August 15th 2026
Holy Infant 10.00 am and Shepherd of the Hills 10.00 am.
Have a great week.