13/07/2024

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“So, they set off to preach repentance.”

Repentance, in Greek metanoia - originally meant “a transformative change of heart; especially: a spiritual conversion,"

Preaching with actions – life style – is more powerful than mere words.

Cardinal Basil Hume – uncle George to his family - had almost become a Dominican. He used to tell young people who asked him about his vocation that as a young altar server - he was born 2.3.23 (easy date to remember!) - he would accompany the Parish Priest of the Dominican parish in Newcastle on his rounds to visit families in the early 1930s. Bear in mind, this was the Depression.

“The joy on the faces of the family as he came in through the front door, and the smile on his face as we left, moved me to want to become like him when I grew up.” It is thought that a Dominican, Dalmatius Houtmann OP, a keen supporter of Newcastle United (founded in 1892) gave the nascent team their first strips; the Dominican colours of black and white! Not surprisingly, Basil was an avid Newcastle United supporter right up to his birth into divine eternity.

Having studied at Ampleforth, in the event he became a Benedictine, Abbot, then Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal – and having influenced Queen Elizabeth for the better, she gave him the highest honour at her disposal: The Order of Merit - some ten days before he died.

He certainly improved my self-esteem and hope. Just after he died, I was able to kiss his warm forehead to say thanks.

Can you think of  - and thank - anyone  - maybe your family - who has influenced your life for the better?

Maybe it’s because I am big headed, but I like to think, my homilies make  a positive contribution to your life and help you to repent for the better.