Low Sunday - Dominica in Albis

The Octave of Easter - Low Sunday (Sunday of Quasimodo)

Low Mass at 5pm

St. Patrick's Church College Rd

Kilkenny

Celebrant: Very. Rev. Fr. A. O'Connor PP.

Image Source : Jerome Nadal SJ

"Thomas answered and said to Him: my Lord and my God. Jesus saith to him: 

Because thou hast seen Me, Thomas, thou hast believed; 

blessed are they that have not seen, and have believed. "

Today's Gospel (Jn 20: 19 -31) has the particular value of strengthening us in our faith. Thomas' doubt confirms us in the faith, for as St. Gregory says, " His disbelief was more useful to us than the faith of the other Apostles." Thomas was allowed to touch Him, the one who was incredulous, to do what He had not permitted the most faithful to do. It gives us an insight into Gods ways. God is a Father. He never denies a soul who seeks him with sincerity the necessary props to support his faith, but He often refuses the strong what he grants to the weak.

Is this not a manifestation of His Divine Mercy?

We are also told of the great gift given to priests for our benefit, the apostolic power to forgive sins. All of us constantly need to strengthen our faith, and to grow closer to God. In this time, as has always been the case, the frequent, humble use of that sacrament is as necessary as ever. It will give us the strength we need to grow in, and support, our faith - let alone overcome our failings. Oh great gift of Divine Mercy to His creatures! 

We are also left with one of the most beautiful prayers we can say, 'My Lord and my God'. How many times should we not repeat these words!

O Lord give me a real purity and true simplicity of heart, for You cannot find rest in a soul which is without them... I am resolved to pass all else in order to be united with You!

(Extracts from: Divine Intimacy by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary OCD)