21ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIMES 23RD AUGUST 2026

God is the source of all power and authority on earth and in heaven. All our readings today remind us of how God gives and takes power from humanity. God shares His authority with civil leaders who are elected to serve the people. The Pope and other Church leaders are called to serve the material and spiritual welfare of all His children, both within and outside the Church.

The Magisterium is the teaching office of the Church, established to serve humanity by teaching and preserving the truth of the faith. As individuals, we must accept Jesus as our personal Lord and Saviour, our Good Shepherd, and our protector and provider throughout our journey in life.

We can have a living experience of Jesus by listening to Him through reading the Bible, speaking to Him in prayer and meditation, and offering our lives to Him. We do this by participating in daily Mass, living an exemplary Christian life, cooperating with God’s grace, and receiving Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.

We surrender ourselves to Jesus by praising and thanking God at all times and by recognising that God’s loving hands are behind everything. May we always trust in Him, follow His guidance, and allow His grace to lead us throughout our lives.

Fr Peter Ehinmiro