Saint Joseph the Worker
Liturgical Colour: White. Year: B(II)
Readings at Mass
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First reading
Acts 15:1-6
They were to go up to Jerusalem and discuss the problem with the apostles and elders
Some men came down from Judaea and taught the brothers, ‘Unless you have yourselves circumcised in the tradition of Moses you cannot be saved.’ This led to disagreement, and after Paul and Barnabas had had a long argument with these men it was arranged that Paul and Barnabas and others of the church should go up to Jerusalem and discuss the problem with the apostles and elders.
All the members of the church saw them off, and as they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria they told how the pagans had been converted, and this news was received with the greatest satisfaction by the brothers. When they arrived in Jerusalem they were welcomed by the church and by the apostles and elders, and gave an account of all that God had done with them.
But certain members of the Pharisees’ party who had become believers objected, insisting that the pagans should be circumcised and instructed to keep the Law of Moses. The apostles and elders met to look into the matter.
Commentary
"Seeking Unity: The Jerusalem Council Convenes"
The Issue at Hand: In Acts 15:1-2, we encounter a dispute arising within the early Christian community regarding the necessity of circumcision for Gentile converts to Christianity.
Resolution through Dialogue: The believers in Antioch decided to send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem to discuss the matter with the apostles and elders, demonstrating a commitment to resolving disputes through communal discernment and dialogue.
Acknowledgment of Authority: By seeking counsel from the apostles and elders in Jerusalem, the believers in Antioch recognize the authority and leadership of these individuals within the early church.
Importance of Unity: The decision to convene a council reflects the importance of maintaining unity and harmony within the diverse and growing Christian community, even amidst theological disagreements.
Guidance from Jerusalem: The Jerusalem Council, as a gathering of apostles and elders, plays a crucial role in providing guidance and direction for the entire church, ensuring doctrinal clarity and unity amid diversity.
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Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 121(122):1-5
I rejoiced when I heard them say: ‘Let us go to God’s house.’
or
Alleluia!
I rejoiced when I heard them say:
‘Let us go to God’s house.’
And now our feet are standing
within your gates, O Jerusalem.
I rejoiced when I heard them say: ‘Let us go to God’s house.’
or
Alleluia!
Jerusalem is built as a city
strongly compact.
It is there that the tribes go up,
the tribes of the Lord.
I rejoiced when I heard them say: ‘Let us go to God’s house.’
or
Alleluia!
For Israel’s law, it is,
there to praise the Lord’s name.
There were set the thrones of judgement
of the house of David.
I rejoiced when I heard them say: ‘Let us go to God’s house.’
or
Alleluia!
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Gospel Acclamation
Jn10:14
Alleluia, alleluia!
I am the good shepherd, says the Lord;
I know my own sheep and my own know me.
Alleluia!
Or:
Jn15:4,5
Alleluia, alleluia!
Make your home in me, as I make mine in you,
says the Lord;
whoever remains in me bears fruit in plenty.
Alleluia!
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Gospel
John 15:1-8
I am the vine, you are the branches
Jesus said to his disciples:
‘I am the true vine,
and my Father is the vinedresser.
Every branch in me that bears no fruit
he cuts away,
and every branch that does bear fruit
he prunes to make it bear even more.
You are pruned already,
by means of the word that I have spoken to you.
Make your home in me, as I make mine in you.
As a branch cannot bear fruit all by itself,
but must remain part of the vine,
neither can you unless you remain in me.
I am the vine,
you are the branches.
Whoever remains in me, with me in him,
bears fruit in plenty;
for cut off from me you can do nothing.
Anyone who does not remain in me
is like a branch that has been thrown away – he withers;
these branches are collected and thrown on the fire,
and they are burnt.
If you remain in me
and my words remain in you,
you may ask what you will
and you shall get it.
It is to the glory of my Father that you should bear much fruit,
and then you will be my disciples.’
Commentary
"Vital Connection: Jesus, the Vine"
Source of Life: Jesus compares himself to the vine, signifying that he is the source of spiritual life and sustenance for believers.
Dependent Relationship: Believers are likened to branches, illustrating their dependence on Jesus for nourishment and vitality.
Fruitful Abiding: By remaining connected to Jesus, believers bear fruit in their lives, manifesting the qualities of faith, love, and obedience.
Apart from Him, Nothing: Jesus emphasizes the necessity of abiding in him for fruitful living, highlighting the futility of attempting to live a meaningful Christian life apart from him.
Pruning for Growth: God's work of pruning ensures greater spiritual growth and effectiveness in the lives of believers, refining them for greater fruitfulness in their Christian walk.
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