REFORMATED. Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community 15th Week of Extraordinary Time, August 9, 2026 Liturgy Team: Jerry & Suzanne Bires, Jim Brandi, Cheryl Brandi (IT), Beth Ponce, Michael Rigdon

Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community 15th Week of Extraordinary Time, August 9, 2026 Liturgy Team: Jerry & Suzanne Bires, Jim Brandi, Cheryl Brandi (IT), Beth Ponce, Michael Rigdon 

Welcome. 

Jim. 

We warmly welcome you to the inclusive Catholic community of Mary Mother of Jesus in Sarasota, Florida. All are welcome here! We celebrate together ✝️ in the name of God our creator, Jesus the Christ, and the Spirit our wisdom within. Amen. Please welcome each other with a sign of Christ’s peace ☮️ 🙏🏿 Namaste, Namaste, Namaste! The peace of Christ be with us! 

Gathering 🎶 Standing on Their Shoulders

https://youtu.be/elh77GtHWPU 

Theme 

Michael. 

For our theme, go to the bold type in first reading. 

Opening Prayer Beth. We commit to care for those who are abandoned or neglected, and to change unjust social, cultural and legal systems that subjugate them. All: Transform us, O Holy One. 

Glory to God 🎶 Marty Haugen. Video by Bridget Mary Meehan & Mary Theresa Streck

https://youtu.be/udjH7EON5IY 

Liturgy of the Word (Please pause for a moment of silence.) 

Jerry. 

First Reading. A Reading from the speeches of Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela. With true structural change there would be far less need for charity; without it, the very best charitable efforts will never be enough. (MLK) A true revolution of values will soon cause us to question the fairness and justice of many of our past and present policies. On the one hand we are called to play the Good Samaritan on life’s roadside, but that will be only an initial act. One day we must come to see that the whole Jericho Road must be transformed so that men and women will not be constantly beaten and robbed as they make their journey on life’s highway. True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar. It comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring. (NM) These are the inspired words of heroic Christian activists Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela, and the community affirms them by saying, Amen. 

Acclamation 🎶 Alle, Alle, Alleluia.

https://youtu.be/ID5UGWcS6Ws 

Suzanne. 

The second reading is from the letter to the Colossians attributed to Paul. We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God’s original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body. He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross. 

Acclamation 🎶 Alle, Alle, Alleluia.

https://youtu.be/ID5UGWcS6Ws 

Jim. 

A reading from the Good News Attributed to Luke. Just then a religion scholar stood up with a question to test Jesus. "Teacher, what do I need to do to get eternal life?" Jesus answered, "What's written in God's Law? How do you interpret it?" He said, "That you love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence—and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself." "Good answer!" said Jesus. "Do it and you'll live.” Looking for a loophole, the scholar asked, "And just how would you define 'neighbor'?" Jesus answered by telling a story. "There was once a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked by robbers. They took his clothes, beat him up, and went off leaving him half-dead. Luckily, a priest was on his way down the same road, but when he saw him he angled across to the other side. Then a Levite religious man showed up; he also avoided the injured man. A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man's condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I'll pay you on my way back.' "What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?" "The one who treated him kindly," the religion scholar responded. Jesus said, "Go and do the same.” 

Acclamation 🎶 Alle, Alle, Alleluia.

https://youtu.be/ID5UGWcS6Ws 

Shared Homily Michael & Community. 

Profession of Faith. 

Jerry. 

We believe in the creator of all whose divinity infuses life with the sacred. We believe in Jesus the Christ who leads us to the fullness of humanity. We believe in the Spirit of wisdom, the divine breath in the cosmos, who enlightens those living in darkness. Amen to courage, to hope, to the spirit of truth, to wholeness, to the partnership of all women and men in the divine plan. We believe in justice and peace for all. We surely believe in all this! 

Community Prayers 

Suzanne. 

As we prepare for this sacred meal, we are aware that the needs of our country and our world are many. As a community and as individuals we do our part to be the healing power of Christ for the world as we bring our prayers to the Eucharistic Table. Please voice your intentions beginning with the words, “I bring to the table…..” We pray for these and all unspoken intentions in our hearts. Amen 

Beth: 

We offer our gifts. We invite everyone to place their plate of bread and cup of wine on their table of plenty. (Pause) Ever present Sacred Spirit, you who hold us in your loving hands, we offer these gifts of bread and wine as we celebrate your life with us. These gifts are made sacred through our faith. We ask this in the name of Jesus our brother. Amen 

Eucharistic Prayer 

Michael. 

We begin our Eucharistic prayer in song. 🎶 Here in this Place 

https://youtu.be/sgkWXOSGmOQ 

Jim & All. 

We commit ourselves to live the ministry of the Gospel as we speak clearly with respect and love, as we challenge the contradictions within our society, especially during these times of division and fear. We remind ourselves daily to remain faithful in our words and actions to our commitment to nonviolence. We are called to the inner life, our spiritual life, to be open to the new beginnings in our lives. We walk with Jesus seeking wisdom and peace. 

(Hold your hand over bread and wine) Jerry & All. 

Jesus, we remember the last meal you had with your followers. We call upon Sacred Spirit, ever and always with us, to bring blessing on this bread and wine as they are made sacred through our faith in the presence of Christ with us. During Jesus’s life on earth, he lived and died loving the poor, healing the sick and challenging the injustices within society. Because of his ministry, Jesus was feared by the authorities of his day, and they sought out ways to bring him to his death. 

Suzanne & All. 

On the night before he faced his own death, Jesus sat at the Seder supper with his companions and friends. He reminded them of all that he taught them, and to fix that memory clearly with them, he bent down and washed their feet. All lift 🥖 and pray: When he returned to his place at the table, he lifted the bread, spoke the blessing, broke the bread and offered it to them saying: Take and eat, this is my very self. Pause, then lift the 🍷 and pray: 

Beth & All. 

Jesus took the cup, spoke the grace, and offered it to them saying: Take and drink. This is the new covenant. Whenever you remember me like this, I am among you. (pause) Denis. What we have heard with our ears, we will live with our lives. As we share communion, we will become communion both love's nourishment and love's challenge. 

Michael & All. 

Let us share this bread and cup to proclaim and live the gospel of justice, nonviolence and peace, remembering that we are bearers of light and hope. We are the Christ alive today. We now share the bread and wine, saying, “I am/You are a disciple of justice. 🎶 

Communion Song: What Shall I Give by Sara Thomsen

https://youtu.be/UUTs9qa5h3g 

Prayer after Communion. 

Jim. 

Sacred Spirit, we rejoice that the Universal Christ remains always and ever present within and around us. We remember all those who have transitioned from life on earth to complete union with your Sacred Presence—Mary of Nazareth and all great saints, prophets and martyrs. We also remember family members, friends, and MMOJ members. We remember all those whose lives have been lost to covid, to war, to racism and other forms of exclusion and violence that exist in our world. And we remember those you wish to be remembered (we pause to remember our loved ones) All are beloved souls who have blessed our lives and who continue to inspire us. And we respond together: All: So be it! 

Jerry. 

Let us pray together as Jesus taught us: All. O Holy One, who is within, around and among us, We celebrate your many names. Your Wisdom come, Your will be done, unfolding from the depths within us. Each day you give us all we need. You remind us of our limits, and we let go. You support us in our power, and we act with courage, For you are the dwelling place within us, the empowerment around us, and the celebration among us, now and forever. Amen 🎶 

Irish blessing

https://youtu.be/hw-Z2Vfskvo 

Suzanne. 

Please share the gratitude you hold in your hearts. Announcements 

Closing 🎶 We are the World, Together at Home Edition 2020

https://youtu.be/EIUAdeAEgvU 

Michael Thanks to Dotty Shugrue for the theme, the music and the first reading today. 

__________________________________________________ If you want to add an intercession to our MMOJ Community Prayer book, please send an email to jmeehan515@aol.com

Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community 15th Week of Extraordinary Time, August 9, 2026 Liturgy Team: Jerry & Suzanne Bires, Jim Brandi, Cheryl Brandi (IT), Beth Ponce, Michael Rigdon

Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community 15th Week of Extraordinary Time, August 9, 2026 Liturgy Team: Jerry & Suzanne Bires, Jim Brandi, Cheryl Brandi (IT), Beth Ponce, Michael Rigdon Welcome. Jim. We warmly welcome you to the inclusive Catholic community of Mary Mother of Jesus in Sarasota, Florida. All are welcome here! We celebrate together ✝️ in the name of God our creator, Jesus the Christ, and the Spirit our wisdom within. Amen. Please welcome each other with a sign of Christ’s peace ☮️ 🙏🏿 Namaste, Namaste, Namaste! The peace of Christ be with us! Gathering 🎶 Standing on Their Shoulders Theme Michael. For our theme, go to the bold type in first reading. Opening Prayer Beth. We commit to care for those who are abandoned or neglected, and to change unjust social, cultural and legal systems that subjugate them. All: Transform us, O Holy One. Glory to God 🎶 Marty Haugen. Video by Bridget Mary Meehan & Mary Theresa Streck https://youtu.be/udjH7EON5IY Liturgy of the Word (Please pause for a moment of silence.) Jerry. First Reading. A Reading from the speeches of Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela. With true structural change there would be far less need for charity; without it, the very best charitable efforts will never be enough. (MLK) A true revolution of values will soon cause us to question the fairness and justice of many of our past and present policies. On the one hand we are called to play the Good Samaritan on life’s roadside, but that will be only an initial act. One day we must come to see that the whole Jericho Road must be transformed so that men and women will not be constantly beaten and robbed as they make their journey on life’s highway. True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar. It comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring. (NM) These are the inspired words of heroic Christian activists Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela, and the community affirms them by saying, Amen. Acclamation 🎶 Alle, Alle, Alleluia. Suzanne. The second reading is from the letter to the Colossians attributed to Paul. We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God’s original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body. He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross. Acclamation 🎶 Alle, Alle, Alleluia. Jim. A reading from the Good News Attributed to Luke. Just then a religion scholar stood up with a question to test Jesus. "Teacher, what do I need to do to get eternal life?" Jesus answered, "What's written in God's Law? How do you interpret it?" He said, "That you love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence—and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself." "Good answer!" said Jesus. "Do it and you'll live.” Looking for a loophole, the scholar asked, "And just how would you define 'neighbor'?" Jesus answered by telling a story. "There was once a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked by robbers. They took his clothes, beat him up, and went off leaving him half-dead. Luckily, a priest was on his way down the same road, but when he saw him he angled across to the other side. Then a Levite religious man showed up; he also avoided the injured man. A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man's condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I'll pay you on my way back.' "What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?" "The one who treated him kindly," the religion scholar responded. Jesus said, "Go and do the same.” Acclamation 🎶 Alle, Alle, Alleluia. Shared Homily Michael & Community. Profession of Faith. Jerry. We believe in the creator of all whose divinity infuses life with the sacred. We believe in Jesus the Christ who leads us to the fullness of humanity. We believe in the Spirit of wisdom, the divine breath in the cosmos, who enlightens those living in darkness. Amen to courage, to hope, to the spirit of truth, to wholeness, to the partnership of all women and men in the divine plan. We believe in justice and peace for all. We surely believe in all this! Community Prayers Suzanne. As we prepare for this sacred meal, we are aware that the needs of our country and our world are many. As a community and as individuals we do our part to be the healing power of Christ for the world as we bring our prayers to the Eucharistic Table. Please voice your intentions beginning with the words, “I bring to the table…..” We pray for these and all unspoken intentions in our hearts. Amen Beth: We offer our gifts. We invite everyone to place their plate of bread and cup of wine on their table of plenty. (Pause) Ever present Sacred Spirit, you who hold us in your loving hands, we offer these gifts of bread and wine as we celebrate your life with us. These gifts are made sacred through our faith. We ask this in the name of Jesus our brother. Amen Eucharistic Prayer Michael. We begin our Eucharistic prayer in song. 🎶 Here in this Place Jim & All. We commit ourselves to live the ministry of the Gospel as we speak clearly with respect and love, as we challenge the contradictions within our society, especially during these times of division and fear. We remind ourselves daily to remain faithful in our words and actions to our commitment to nonviolence. We are called to the inner life, our spiritual life, to be open to the new beginnings in our lives. We walk with Jesus seeking wisdom and peace. (Hold your hand over bread and wine) Jerry & All. Jesus, we remember the last meal you had with your followers. We call upon Sacred Spirit, ever and always with us, to bring blessing on this bread and wine as they are made sacred through our faith in the presence of Christ with us. During Jesus’s life on earth, he lived and died loving the poor, healing the sick and challenging the injustices within society. Because of his ministry, Jesus was feared by the authorities of his day, and they sought out ways to bring him to his death. Suzanne & All. On the night before he faced his own death, Jesus sat at the Seder supper with his companions and friends. He reminded them of all that he taught them, and to fix that memory clearly with them, he bent down and washed their feet. All lift 🥖 and pray: When he returned to his place at the table, he lifted the bread, spoke the blessing, broke the bread and offered it to them saying: Take and eat, this is my very self. Pause, then lift the 🍷 and pray: Beth & All. Jesus took the cup, spoke the grace, and offered it to them saying: Take and drink. This is the new covenant. Whenever you remember me like this, I am among you. (pause) Denis. What we have heard with our ears, we will live with our lives. As we share communion, we will become communion both love's nourishment and love's challenge. Michael & All. Let us share this bread and cup to proclaim and live the gospel of justice, nonviolence and peace, remembering that we are bearers of light and hope. We are the Christ alive today. We now share the bread and wine, saying, “I am/You are a disciple of justice. 🎶 Communion Song: What Shall I Give by Sara Thomsen Prayer after Communion. Jim. Sacred Spirit, we rejoice that the Universal Christ remains always and ever present within and around us. We remember all those who have transitioned from life on earth to complete union with your Sacred Presence—Mary of Nazareth and all great saints, prophets and martyrs. We also remember family members, friends, and MMOJ members. We remember all those whose lives have been lost to covid, to war, to racism and other forms of exclusion and violence that exist in our world. And we remember those you wish to be remembered (we pause to remember our loved ones) All are beloved souls who have blessed our lives and who continue to inspire us. And we respond together: All: So be it! Jerry. Let us pray together as Jesus taught us: All. O Holy One, who is within, around and among us, We celebrate your many names. Your Wisdom come, Your will be done, unfolding from the depths within us. Each day you give us all we need. You remind us of our limits, and we let go. You support us in our power, and we act with courage, For you are the dwelling place within us, the empowerment around us, and the celebration among us, now and forever. Amen 🎶 Irish blessing Suzanne. Please share the gratitude you hold in your hearts. Announcements Closing 🎶 We are the World, Together at Home Edition 2020 https://youtube/EIUAdeAEgvU https://youtu.be/182f6dTagkU?si=ERyILPSlMX5IAQC0 Michael Thanks to Dotty Shugrue for the theme, the music and the first reading today. __________________________________________________ If you want to add an intercession to our MMOJ Community Prayer book, please send an email to jmeehan515@aol.com

18th week in extraordinary Time August 1, 2026 Liturgy Team: Elena Garcia, Maryal Gagnon Cathy Alexander, Jane Shugrue Music: Linda Lee IT: Cheryl Brandi Theme: Life calls us to listen and respond.

MMOJ inclusive Catholic Community 18th week in extraordinary Time August 1, 2026 Liturgy Team: Elena Garcia, Maryal Gagnon Cathy Alexander, Jane Shugrue Music: Linda Lee IT: Cheryl Brandi 

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/93473708926?pwd=VHFKZGJ5N3ljbzZtVU1qQVRZY1lodz09

Meeting ID: 934 7370 8926

Passcode: 552967 

 Theme: Life calls us to listen and respond. 

 Welcome and Gathering (Maryal) 

Welcome to our Zoom liturgy at Mary Mother of Jesus, an inclusive Catholic Community where all are welcome. Whoever you are, Wherever you are, Just as you are, You are welcome at this table. (Integral Christianity by Paul Smith) At certain times in the liturgy we invite sharing from the community, as at The Prayers of the Community and The Shared Homily. If you feel drawn to share, you must unmute your microphone, speak, and re-mute yourself. Even though your microphone is muted, wherever you are, please respond where the liturgy is marked “All,” and feel free to sing your heart out! Please have bread and wine/juice in front of you during the Liturgy. Let us now take a few moments to collect ourselves as we prepare to focus our minds and our hearts on our knowledge that we are all one, brought together at this time to transform ourselves and our world through love; love for our Holy One, love for our neighbors, love for ourselves, and love for our planet. Let us begin our liturgy by expressing this love through song. Gathering Song: Anthem by Tom Conry 

  REFRAIN We are called, we are chosen, we are Christ for one another. We are promised to tomorrow, while we are for him today. We are sign, we are wonder, we are sower we are seed. We are harvest, we are hunger. We are question, we are creed. VERSE Then where can we stand justified? In what can we believe? In no one else but Christ who suffered, nothing more than Christ who rose. Who was justice for the poor. Who was rage against the night. Who was hope for peaceful people. Who was light. Repeat REFRAIN 

 OPENING PRAYER (Elena): O loving God of many names, you share your divinity with all of creation. You call us to heal the wounds of hatred and violence, discrimination and oppression in our world. You call us to see goodness and beauty everywhere and to live in harmony with all of creation. You call us to live life to the fullest and to journey into your heart of compassion always striving to unite our will to yours. In communion with Jesus, our brother and with the power of Holy Spirit Sophia, grant us the strength to respond with joy to your call and to trust in your providence to be able to overcome all adversity. All: AMEN. llc dc

 COMMUNAL RECONCILIATION RITE (Maryal): 

Let us pause for a moment to reflect, on a time when in hindsight we wish we had been less judgmental, more patient, more compassionate, more present, kinder and forgiving. Now imagine this person(s) or situation in the light of healing love as we ask for forgiveness and reconciliation. (PAUSE for Reflection) Please place your hand over your heart and say the “Ho’oponopono Prayer.” All: I am sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you. 

 Gloria: Glory to God by Marty Haugen - video by Bridget Mary Meehan and Mary Theresa Streck 

 THE SIGN OF PEACE (Elena) It is fitting that, having asked for Divine and mutual forgiveness, we now extend an expression of Peace to each other. (Elena): Grant us Your peace, O Loving God, that following the example of Jesus and with the strength of the Spirit, we may be eager to spread your light and peace to everyone, everywhere, with no exceptions. All: May the peace of our gracious and loving God be always with us. AMEN (Elena) Let us turn to each other and with praying hands offer one another a sign of peace. NAMASTE 3x 

 GLORIA: Glory to God by Marty Haugen - video by Bridget Mary Meehan and Mary Theresa Streck (

Maryal) Glory to the Spirit of Life, to the Holy One who surrounds us, who lives within us, whose Sacred Word is shared by us in our world. All: Glory to the Spirit of Life, who offers us peace; peace in our hearts, peace in our thoughts, peace with one another as we reach out to one another and ask for blessing

 (Maryal) Glory to the Spirit of Life, who cares for the health workers, postal workers, store clerks, garbage collectors and all who serve our special needs in numerous ways. All: Glory to the Spirit of Life, who sent Jesus who teaches us how to live the Gospels, who brings hope and healing to all those in need.

 (Maryal): O Holy One, you are one with us. We are strong in our faith and will live life in hope and faithfulness to you, to be Church committed to the message of the Gospels. We depend upon the ever-present Spirit Sophia Wisdom to walk with us as we journey in the present and rejoice in the life before us. All: Glory to the Spirit of Life, Amen 

 LITURGY OF THE WORD (Cathy) First Reading: Romans 8: 31-39 

 So what do you think? With God on our side, how can we lose? If God didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing Godself to the worst by sending God’s own Son, is there anything else God wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God’s chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us - who was raised to life for us!- is in the presence of God this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ’s love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not anger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in scripture: They kill us in cold blood because they hate you. We’re sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one. None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I’m absolutely convinced that nothing---- not a thing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God’s love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.

 (Cathy) This is a contemporary reading of The Epistle to the Romans as found in “The Message” by Eugene Peterson, and our response is AMEN 

 Psalm 145 (Maryal) Response: MY SOUL YEARNS FOR YOU, ETERNAL FLAME OF LOVE ~

Each generation must learn anew the efficacy of silence, the wisdom of turning inward, that your Light might be their guide to holiness, and your Love nurture them toward wholeness 

Response: MY SOUL YEARNS FOR YOU, ETERNAL FLAME OF LOVE ~

Yet, many there are who turn from you in fear, denying their birthright. Their denial will lead them further into alienation; loneliness will companion them. 

Response: MY SOUL YEARNS FOR YOU, ETERNAL FLAME OF LOVE ~

Gratitude and quiet joy overflow as I recall the abundant blessings of your grace! Lift up your hearts, all you who choose the path of Life! My heart is Lifted up! 

Response: MY SOUL YEARNS FOR YOU, ETERNAL FLAME OF LOVE. 

Gospel Acclamation: (Alleluia) Jan Phillips  

 https://youtu.be/IC4nbwmQDVw 

 Gospel Reading: Matthew 14:13-21 (Jane) When Jesus heard of the death of his cousin John the Baptizer, he slipped away by boat to an out-of-the-way place by himself. But unsuccessfully someone saw him and the word got around. Soon a lot of people from the nearby villages walked around the lake where he was. When he saw them coming he was overcome with pity and he healed their sick. Toward evening the disciples approached him. “We’re out in the country and it’s getting late. Dismiss the people so they can go to the villages and get some supper”. But Jesus said, “There is no need to dismiss them. You give them supper” “All we have are five loaves of bread and two fish,” they said. Jesus said, “Bring them here.” Then he had the people sit on the grass. He took the five loaves and two fish, lifted his face to heaven in prayer , blessed, broke, and gave the bread to the disciples . The disciples gave the food to the congregation. They all ate their fill. They gathered twelve baskets of leftovers. About five thousand were fed. As soon as the meal was finished, he insisted that the disciples get in the boat and go on ahead to the other side while he dismissed the people. With the crowd dispersed, he climbed the mountain so he could be by himself and pray. He stayed there alone into the night. This is a contemporary reading from Matthew found in “The Message” by Eugene Peterson. 

 And we respond: So Be It ! 

 Repeat Gospel Acclamation Shared Homily Starter: 

 COMMUNAL STATEMENT OF FAITH (Maryal) Creed 

We believe in you O God, Creator of the universe, whose divinity infuses all that exists, making everything sacred. Jesus, we believe in You, messenger of the Divine Word, the bringer of healing and the heart of Compassion. We believe in you Holy Spirit, the breath of our innermost life, and the Sustainer who heals and energizes us when our spirits grow weary in our journeys. We believe that You are here with us today in this gathering, calling us to be a loving and just people. We believe the poor have a priority in your plans and we are called to do our best to serve them in your name. We believe you are offering us freedom and grace to become our true selves, so that we can turn from false, worldly securities and look to you for our true identity as your children. We believe that as You were anointed by God to do God’s Will, through our baptism, we too are called to be a sign of God’s Kingdom on earth by listening and responding to the needs of our sisters and brothers. We believe that we are called to follow Jesus as a vehicle of God's love, a source of God's wisdom and truth, and an instrument of God's peace in the world. We believe that God's kin-dom is here and now, stretched out all around us for those with eyes to see it, hearts to receive it, and hands to make it happen.

 PRAYERS OF THE COMMUNITY (Jane): 

As we prepare for the sacred meal, we bring to this table our blessings, cares and concerns, as we ask you to give us the courage to approach our still point and your call to listen and respond, we pray. HEAR OUR PRAYER.

We ask you to give us words to be a source of comfort to one another. For those who are dying, for those who have transitioned and for their grieving loved one. HEAR OUR PRAYER. 

 In the midst of our own anxiety we ask you to give us the courage to support one another as you showed us today in your example of responding to the needs of the multitude before you while engaging those close to you to do likewise. For all who are suffering from the effects of inflation, for our government and financial institutions and those who lead them, we pray. HEAR OUR PRAYER. 

 In the midst of our struggle to ensure a healthy future for all who live on this planet, we ask you to give us the hope that surpasses our current understanding. For health care workers, spiritual leaders and our faith communities, for artists and poets, for prophets and teachers, for political leaders, we pray. HEAR OUR PRAYER. ~

We pray for all who continue to be impacted from the natural disasters in our world. We pray for the people in all war-torn countries in our hurting world, most especially the children, that they may live in peace without fear and that goodness and sanity will fill the hearts and minds of those that would cause them harm. HEAR OUR PRAYER 

 In the midst of our growing awareness that all life on earth is connected, we ask for the heart to respect and cherish all life. That all peoples recognize that we are all your children we pray. HEAR OUR PRAYER.

 (Joan M) MMOJ Prayer book intentions ……………. (Jane): For what else shall we pray? (Unmute your microphone. Speak your concern when there is an opening. Re-mute your microphone.) Respond to each petition with: HEAR OUR PRAYER

. (Jane): We pray for these and all the unspoken concerns we hold in the silence of our hearts. AMEN 

 PRESENTATION OF GIFTS (Please set out your own bread and wine.) 

 (Elena) Blessed are you, God of all life. Through your goodness we have bread, wine, all creation, these prayers of the heart, and our own lives to offer. Through this sacred meal may we become your new creation as we awaken to your call to listen and respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters. All: Blessed be God forever. 

 (Elena) God is within you, blessing the world through you. All: And within you.

 (Maryal) O Holy One, we lift up our hearts to You, You who gently invite us to enter into a deeper relationship with you that will affect how we live our lives and make decisions. This transformation seems to come through difficulties and pain, yet you are here with us always. Come Holy Spirit, be with us and with all who have gone before us, as we lift up our hearts in praise and sing: All: We are holy, holy, holy (Karen Drucker) (

Maryal) Our Holiness is your Holiness within us. Help us to seize opportunities to reveal it to the world. Extend hands over the bread and wine as we pray: ALL: Pour out Your Spirit anew upon this bread and wine and upon us as we become more deeply the Christ Presence in our world. On the night before he died, Jesus gathered for the Seder supper with the men and women he loved. He washed their feet. For this they would remember him. 

 (Elena) Please lift the bread as we pray the Prayers of Consecration: All: When he returned to his place, he lifted the Passover bread, spoke the blessing, broke the bread and offered it to them saying: Take and eat of the Bread of Life, my body, given to strengthen you. Whenever you remember me like this, I am among you. (pause)

 (Elena) Please lift the cup as we pray: All: Jesus then raised a cup of blessing, spoke the grace saying: Take and drink of the covenant made new again through my life in you. Whenever you remember me like this, I am among you. (pause) 

 Presider 2: Let us share this bread and cup, and welcome everyone to the Banquet as we live the gospel of justice and peace in our world. All: We are called to do everything Jesus did, to be the living presence of a love that does justice, of a compassion that heals and liberates, of a joy that generates laughter, of a light that illumines right choices and confronts the darkness of every injustice and inequity. All: We trust you to continue to share with us your own Spirit, the Spirit that filled Jesus, for it is through his life and teaching, his loving and healing that all honor and glory is yours, O Holy One, forever and ever. Amen 

 (Cathy) Let us pray as Jesus taught us: All: Our Father and Mother who are in heaven, whose presence is with us always, and whose spirit dwells within. Hallowed be your name. May your kingdom come, and may your will be done, in our lives, and on earth, just as it is in heaven. Thank you for giving us this day, all that we need for sustenance, nourishment and growth. Forgive us, forgive us when we turn away from your love, when we trespass against you and those you put in our lives. Help us to forgive those who turn away from love and who trespass against us. Keep us from yielding to temptation. Direct us away from anything or anyone that would distract us from your will, your highest good for our lives. Deliver us and protect us from all that is evil. For all glory and power is yours Almighty God just as it was in the beginning, it is now and always shall be, world without end. 

 All SING: AMEN (LINDA LEE MILLER) 

https://youtu.be/Dy76fpfkNsg

 (Jane) Please join in the prayer for the breaking of the bread. All: O God of Courage, You call us to live the Gospel of peace and justice. We will live justly. O God of Compassion, You call us to be your presence in the world. We will love tenderly. O God of Truth, You call us to speak truth to power. We will walk with integrity in your presence. (All hold up the bread and wine.)

 (Maryal) This is the bread of life and the cup of blessing. Through it we are nourished and we nourish each other. All: Through him, we have learned how to live. Through him, we have learned how to love. Through him, we have learned how to serve. AMEN. LINDA LEE Sanctuary: God prepare me to be a sanctuary, Pure and holy, tried and true With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living sanctuary for you. God prepare me to be a sanctuary, Acting boldly in your name. Seeking justice where there’s hurting Offering hope where, there is pain. God prepare me to be a sanctuary. Pure and holy, tried and true. With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living sanctuary for you. (Elena) Please now receive Communion with the words “ I am (You are) the Body of Christ” and “I am (You are) the Blood of Christ” The music that follows provides us with the opportunity to remain silent and listen to the words or to sing along as the Spirit moves us. COMMUNION MUSIC “I am the One within you” I am the infinite presence. I am the one in all. I am the truth in beauty, The answer to Spirit’s call. I am the one within you. I am the one you seek. Within your heart there is a doorway. The arms of love await you...with these golden wings take flight. (Sung through twice) BLESSING (Elena) LET US RAISE OUR HANDS AND BLESS EACH OTHER. All: May you be blessed with a restless discomfort about easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships. May you seek truth boldly and love deeply within your heart. May you continue to be the face of the Holy One to all you meet. May your name be a blessing in our time. (Maryal) Prayers of Thanksgiving, Introductions, Announcements: CLOSING PRAYER (Maryal and All) O Holy One we believe that Jesus, your Incarnate Word lives in you and in us. Strengthen our faith, hope and love that your reign will be proclaimed in our lives and the presence of your Spirit be manifested in our thoughts words and actions. We ask this through Jesus and in the Holy Spirit. AMEN 

 CLOSING SONG “The Greatest Thing”- Linda Lee - words & music by Mark Pendergast 1.The greatest thing in all my life is knowing you. The greatest thing in all my life is knowing you. I want to know you more. I want to know you more. The greatest thing in all my life is knowing you. 2. .... is loving you. 3. ... is serving you. 4. ... is sharing you. 5. ... is seeing you. 6. ... is being you.

 If you would like to add your intercession to our MMOJ Community Prayers book, Please send an email to jmeehan515@aol.com If you would like to invite another person to attend our liturgy please refer them to www.marymotherofJesus.org where the day’s liturgy is found. Zoom instructions are also included there.

Liturgy for Feast of Mary of Magdala Presiders: Dotty Shugrue and Joan Pesce Prayer Leaders and Readers: Jeanne Schmitt, Jim Brandi IT: Jerry Bires

Mary, Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community

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Welcome to our Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Church Community Liturgy. We are a “Church Without Walls.”

Whoever you are.  Where ever you are.  Just as you are.  You are welcome at our table.

Dotty: Theme For Today’s Liturgy:

 

Today we honor and celebrate all of the strong and courageous women who confronted the darkness in their lives and pushed through that darkness to recognize the Divine Light within. 

 

Opening Prayer:

 

Like Mary of Magdala, apostle to the apostles, we rejoice that our spiritual power to live the Gospel is rooted in the presence of Spirit within each and all of us. Like Mary of Magdala, we rejoice that our oneness with the Holy One frees us from rules, projections and expectations that limit our ability to be a radiant reflection of Divine love and compassion. 

Amen

 

Gathering Song: Women Spirit  Michelle Sheriza

 

             https://youtu.be/K4UTqvXeyl8?si=RHvYvDpuh5pJvuph

 

Joan P: Transformation Rite:

 

May our lives radiate the love of the Jesus.

 

May we live justice and equality in our church and world.

  

May Mary of Magdala be our model of courage and faithful service in our times.  

 

All:  Response:  We will continue to be Transformed

 

LITURGY OF THE WORD

 

Jeanne: Our First Reading: “Mary of Magdala” from Soul Sisters by Edwina Gateley

 

 

This is an excerpt from the text:

    

Ah, Mary of Magdala, they did not tell us your story.

It was lost, buried deep in layers of fear and denial, that such a one as you – female, fiercely loyal friend of Jesus - could walk so closely with him, never leaving his side even as you stood before the gates of hell.

 

They did not tell us, Mary. They did not tell us your story.

Could your seven demons be those very ones that reside still in your sisters, two thousand years later, cowering in shadowy apartments, brutalized by domestic violence and believing it deserved? Afraid to speak, to break the chains that bind them.

 

How was it with you then, Mary of Magdala? Standing in the place of revelation, singular woman witness, of the Resurrection? How was it to be so bereft and then be thrust, still weeping, into the bliss of the Realm of God, to run then, with that vision – that newness of life – to those who lived in fear?

 

Ah, Mary, we your sisters (and brothers) need to hear your running and your story resurrected and dusted from the tomb of scriptural exegesis into the bright sunlight. We need to claim your vision breaking through dead history into our warm lives.

 

We, women waiting, need to find you, Mary of Magdala. In the torn threads of our own journeys; we need to weave you, Mary, sister and friend, into our lives that we might stir and rise, fluttering in hope of new beginnings, no matter how long dead we have lain in the ground. Ah, then, Mary, brave woman of Magdala, we too will run from our tombs singing our song of resurrection with you, soul sister, into the bright, bright sun.

 

These are the inspired words of Edwina Gateley, disciple of Jesus, and we affirm them by saying, 

 

Let It Be So

 

Joan P:  A reading from Gospel of Mary the beloved apostle 

 

At the end of that week, when all the disciples had gathered in the house at Bethany, Mary of Magdala came to them and told them what she had seen and what Jesus had said. 

 

But they were grieved and wept greatly, saying, “How shall we go out and preach the Gospel of the kingdom of the Son of Humanity? If they did not spare him, how will they spare us?”

 

Then Mary of Magdala stood up, greeted them all and, raising her right hand, said to her brethren, “Only from the truth I tell you, do not weep and do not grieve or be irresolute, for his grace and that of the One who sent him will be entirely with you and will protect you. But rather, let us praise his greatness, for he has prepared us and made us truly human.  When Mary of Magdala said this, she turned their hearts to the good, and they began to discuss the words of Jesus. 

 

Peter said to Mary of Magdala, “Sister, we know that he loved you more than any other among women. Tell us the words of the Rabbi, which you remember, which you know and understand, but we do not, nor have we heard them.”

 

Mary of Magdala answered and said, “What is hidden from you, I will proclaim to you.” And she began to speak to them the words that Jesus had given her.

 

“My Rabbi spoke thus to me. He said, ‘Mary, blessed are you who came into being before coming into being, and whose eyes are set upon the kingdom, who from the beginning has understood and followed my teachings. Only from the truth I tell you, there is a great tree within you that does not change, summer or winter, and its leaves do not fall. Whosoever listens to my words and ascends to its crown will not taste death, but know the truth of eternal life.

 

These are the inspired words of Mary of Magdala, beloved disciple of Jesus, and the community responds:  LET IT BE SO!

 

                                           Homily Starter

 

Reader:  Jim Brandi.

STATEMENT OF FAITH

 

Let us proclaim together our Statement of Faith.

 

We believe in the Holy One, a divine mystery
beyond all definition and rational understanding,
the heart of all that has ever existed,
that exists now, or that ever will exist.

We believe in Jesus, messenger of the Divine Word,
bringer of healing, heart of Divine compassion,
bright star in the firmament of the Holy One's prophets, mystics and saints.

We believe that we are called to follow Jesus
as a vehicle of divine love,
a source of wisdom and truth,
and an instrument of peace in the world.

We believe in the Spirit of the Holy One,
the life that is our innermost life,
the breath moving in our being,
the depth living in each of us.

We believe that the Divine kin-dom is here and now,
stretched out all around us for those
with eyes to see it, hearts to receive it,
and hands to make it happen.

 

PRAYERS OF THE COMMUNITY

 

Reader: Joan Meehan

Jesus healed St. Mary of Magdala of a very serious illness and then she followed him, supporting his mission with all of her resources.  Thank you, Christ Spirit, for all the ways you heal us.  Open our hearts to receive your healing grace and let us, like St. Mary of Magdala, put all we have at your service.

 

Mary and the other women and men disciples persevered with Jesus, even when he was persecuted by his own religious leadership and government authorities.  God of Strength, help us stand in Jesus’ truth and healing love especially when we experience persecution for justice’ sake.  

Because of her witness and fidelity, St. Mary of Magdala is known as the Apostle to the Apostles.  Help us, O God of Righteousness, to accept your apostolic call “to go and tell our brothers and sisters of Jesus’ power to heal… even wounded structures which exclude.” 

Women were faithful disciples of Jesus and significant leaders in the early Christian communities.  Help us Most Inclusive One, to reclaim our baptismal call to leadership.

 

Our country is struggling, all that we love in our Democracy is threatened. We look for right leadership and your strength, Jesus, to bring peace to our hearts and minds.

                              

For what else shall we pray: 

 

We pray for these and all the concerns we hold deep in our hearts. LET IT BE SO!

 

The Healing Song by Karen Drucker

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAocwPRVFsg

 

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST

 

Presider:  Joan P.  With open hands and hearts, let us pray together our Eucharistic prayer: 

 

O Nurturing, Mothering One, You are always with us. We are grateful for Your constant loving and unconditional presence. You give us life, and we live and breathe with your Spirit. You create us female and male; You call us good, and we live as equal partners. You share the earth with us, and we, as co-creators with you, on your ongoing activity of creation.

 

O Heart of Love, Your Spirit moved through Mary of Magdala as she taught us that we are in continuous communion with you. Your Spirit moves through the love within us, expanding in widening circles to embrace all people and creation in our evolving universe. United with all our blessed ancestors, with Mary of Magdala and all women and men who confronted the structures of oppression in their times with unique vision and compassion, we sing: 

 

Holy, Holy: Mass of Mary Magdalene by Sarah Hart

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfN2yeIosaw&list=OLAK5uy_kDqWt4qO055cxl_KGZ1J7ed0h9r00XM24&index=6

 

 

Presider:  Joan P.  

 

We give grateful thanks for all your faithful servants, opening for all of us a path to life.

 

(Please extend your hands in blessing.)

 

Come forth Sacred Spirit and be with us at our Eucharistic Table and send light and blessing upon the bread and wine which reminds us of our call to be the body of Christ in the world.

 

We thank you for Jesus, simple servant, lifting up the lowly, revealing you as God-With-Us, revealing us as one with you, and all creation. He had nothing in this world but your love, companions on the journey, and his very self. Together, that was more than enough.

 

Come forth Sacred Spirit and be with us at our Eucharistic Table and send light and blessing upon the bread and wine which reminds us of our call to be the body of Christ in the world.

 

Presider: Dotty:  

 

As we share this bread made from the grain of the fields and this cup of wine made from the grape of the vine to proclaim and live the gospel of justice and peace. We choose to live justly, love tenderly, and walk with integrity.

 

On the night before he died, Jesus came to the table with the women and men he loved.  He reminded them of all that he taught them, and to fix that memory clearly within them, he bent down and washed their feet.

 

Back at the table, Jesus took the Passover Bread, spoke the grace, broke the bread and offered it to them saying, Take and eat, this is my very self.

 

(All lift their cups and pray the following)

 

Presider:  Joan P:  Then he took the cup of blessing, spoke the grace, and offered it to them saying:

 

Take and drink of the covenant

Made new again through my life in you.

Whenever you remember me like this,

I am among you.

What we have heard with our ears, we will live with our lives, 

As we share communion, we become communion, both Love’s nourishment and Love’s challenge.

 

Please receive communion with the words: The Divine Spirit is within me. 

 

Communion Meditation: Song of Ruth

 

   

     https://youtu.be/_-5fV8HWwkE

 

Reader:  Joan P.

 

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

 

O Divine Love, your transforming energy is within us and just as you called Mary of Magdala, you also call us to go forth and to tell the Good News.  

 

We pray for wise leaders in our religious communities. We pray for courageous and compassionate leaders in our world communities.  

 

We pray for all of us gathered here and like Jesus, we open ourselves up to your Spirit, for it is through living as he lived that we awaken to your Spirit within, 

moving us to glorify you, at this time and all ways. LET IT BE SO!

 

Jeanne:  Let us pray as Jesus taught us:

 

Holy One, you are within, around and among us.  

We celebrate your many names. 

Your wisdom come; your will be done, 

unfolding from the depths within us. 

Each day you give us all that we need. 

You remind us of our limits and we let go. 

You support us in our power, and we act with courage. 

For you are the dwelling place within us, 

the empowerment around us, 

and the celebration among us,  

now and forever, Amen.  

                                Adapted by Miriam Therese Winter 

 

BLESSING

 

Dotty:  Please raise your hands in blessing: 

 

May our lives radiate the love of the Holy One. 

May we live justice and equality in our church and world.  

May Mary of Magdala be our model of courage and faithful service.  

May we be a blessing in our time. Amen.

 

 

Our closing song: Blessings Upon You.      

Michelle. Sherliza and Roma Downey

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A59ybCmUFUo

 

 

 

 

 

                            Please send personal intentions to 

                          Joan Meehan. Jmeehan515@aol.com

                          They will be added in our Community Prayer Book.