Parish of Errigal

Parish of Errigal Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Parish of Errigal, Catholic Church, 78 Ballerin Road, Derry.

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time          Matthew 18:15-20 In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that Christian commun...
05/09/2026

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 18:15-20

In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that Christian community is built on honesty, reconciliation and love. When someone hurts us, makes a mistake, or goes astray, we are not called to condemn or abandon them. Instead, we are invited to approach them with patience, compassion and a genuine desire to restore the relationship. This is not always easy. It can take courage to speak honestly, humility to admit when we are wrong, and generosity of heart to forgive. Yet this willingness to reach out, rather than turn away, is at the heart of how Jesus calls us to live together as his disciples.

Jesus also gives us the beautiful promise: “Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” Our faith is never meant to be lived alone. We need one another, especially in moments when life is difficult or when our faith feels weak. Christ is present when we come together in prayer, when we support one another through difficult times, when we forgive, and when we patiently work to bring peace and understanding. Even the smallest acts of kindness and encouragement can become signs of Christ’s presence among us.

As a parish family, may we have the courage to speak with kindness, the humility to listen, and the grace to forgive. May we be willing to look beyond our differences and remember that each person we meet is valued and loved by God. May we never be afraid to take the first step towards reconciliation, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable. And may our communities always be places where Christ’s presence can be recognised - not only in our words and prayers, but especially in the way we welcome, support, forgive and care for one another. In doing so, may we become a true reflection of the love and mercy that Jesus asks us to share with the world.

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)Errigal Parish News - 6th September 2026Weekday Masses: St. Mary’s Church: ...
03/09/2026

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
Errigal Parish News - 6th September 2026

Weekday Masses: St. Mary’s Church: - Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 10am.
St. Joseph’s Church: - Wednesday at 10am.

St. Mary’s Church - (Vigil): Anniversary Mass -
Anniversary Mass:
St. Joseph’s Church - (Vigil) -
First Anniversary Mass - For Susan McNicholl on Sunday 6th September at 11.30am.

Saturday Vigil Mass 6pm - St. Mary’s Church in September.
Eucharistic Adoration: - Adoration on Monday after morning Mass.
……………………………………………………………………….
Parish Pastoral Group: Next meeting to prepare for the Parish Mission will take place on Tuesday 8th September in the Parochial House at 7.30pm.

Parish Mission: Parishioners may have heard that the parish will hold a mission in September of this year. It will be delivered by the Dominican Order. As you know it has been some time since the last Mission in the parish. Whilst members of the Parish Pastoral Group continue to organise it, it would be helpful to have a few interested individuals from each end of the parish to help with the organisation. Time commitment should not be great - a few hours between now and September and some input during the week itself. This is a great opportunity to get involved in a significant event for the parish, and if you are interested, please contact Fr. Crowley.
Parish Mission - Sunday 27th September - Friday 2nd October.

Errigal SVP: Could You Spare a Little Time to Help Others? As we prepare to celebrate the Feast of St Vincent de Paul (27th September), the Errigal St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Conference need a couple of volunteers to join our local team. This is a wonderful opportunity to put your faith into action, give something back to our community, and make a real difference to the lives of local individuals and families who are struggling.
No previous experience is necessary. You will be warmly welcomed and fully supported by our local SVP Volunteers, with guidance and training provided.
If you would like to find out more, please contact us on 07563595868. We'd be delighted to hear from you. For more details, please see https://www.svp.ie/northern-ireland/

Errigal: Through Our Eyes - Summer Youth Photography Project: Starting Monday 6th July, all young people under 18 are invited to join Errigal: Through Our Eyes, a summer photography project. The theme is “See what matters. See where God is.” This will celebrate the beauty, faith, kindness, and everyday life of our parish.
Pick up an entry form, then send up to three photos taken within the parish boundaries and a short reflection to the parish email (with parent/guardian consent for under 16s). There are 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in both Primary and Secondary categories, with certificates for everyone. Update Deadline - Please note that the closing date for entries has been postponed until the end of September. We warmly encourage all our young people to take part and share their photographs and reflections. More details will follow soon.

Gift Aid/Census Cards: Can we please request the return of Gift Aid and Census cards recently circulated so that parish records can be updated during the summer months.

Monday Adoration Adorers: We request if you are available on Monday from after the morning Mass to participate in the rota for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament which takes place until 2.30pm. If interested, please leave your name/contact number in the sacristy and we will follow up.

Feasts during the Week: Tuesday - Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Who brought the dawn of hope and salvation to the world. She is the true Arch of the Covenant, the temple of God, because her body received the one Mediator. Wednesday - St. Ciaran: Was born in Roscommon around 512. He came to Clonmacnois in January 545 where he founded a monastery which was to become one of the most renowned in Europe. He died at the age of thirty-three while the monastery was still being built. Thursday - St. Peter Claver: Was born in Verdú, Catalonia, in 1580, a member of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). In 1610 he was sent to Cartagena in Columbia and worked for thirty-three years among the slaves until his death in 1654. Cartagena was a flourishing centre of the slave trade, as many as 10,000 arriving each year from Africa. During a tireless ministry, he is said to have baptised more than 300,000. Saturday - The Holy Name of Mary: The feast was included in the Roman Calendar in 1684 to celebrate the victory of the Turks at Vienna in 1683. Suppressed in the Calendar revision of 1969, it was restored as a optional memorial in 2022.

Diocesan Vocations: We pray for the men called to priesthood, to the ministry of teaching and preaching in the name of Jesus and encouraging their brothers and sisters to turn away from sin and live as followers of Christ in today's world.
For further information, please contact the Diocesan Vocations Director, Fr Pat O'Hagan, at [email protected]

The Net: As always, it features a wide variety of news, interesting and inspiring interviews, articles, and photos from parishes across the diocese. You can read the Diocesan newspaper on-line at. or a paper copy is available at the back of the church. Donations welcome.

Church Safeguarding: If you have any concerns regarding Safeguarding children or vulnerable adults in need of protection within the Church please contact: Mrs Marie O’Kane (DLP) on 07596500793 or email: [email protected] (Designated Liaison Person), Diocesan Pastoral Centre, 164 Bishop Street, Derry. - Or PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland) 101 or Social Services Tel: 02871-314090.
Parish Representatives - Tracey McGilligan and Clare Mullan.

St. Joseph’s Church: We present a dual gauge to initiative funds in our parish for the on-going costs associated with the renovation of St. Joseph’s Church. The gauge on the left indicates the funds we require to complete the refurbishment. The gauge on the right reflects the loans we have received from other parishes. (Gauge also available on website and page). Thanks - Donations - Current figure £235.400.00.

twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time           Matthew 16:21-27 In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that following him ...
29/08/2026

twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 16:21-27

In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that following him is not always the easy path. He speaks honestly about suffering, sacrifice and the cross, and calls his disciples to take up their own cross and follow him with courage and trust.

These words can challenge us. We naturally want a life free from difficulty, yet Jesus shows us that true love often involves self-giving and putting others before ourselves. Taking up our cross does not mean seeking out suffering, but faithfully responding to the demands of love, forgiveness, service and faithfulness in the circumstances of our daily lives.

Jesus also asks a profound question: What will it profit us to gain the whole world but lose our true selves? In a world that can place great value on success, possessions, comfort and recognition, the Gospel calls us to step back and remember what truly matters. Our relationship with God and the way we love others are worth far more than anything the world can offer.

May we have the courage to follow Christ faithfully, especially when the path is difficult, trusting that the way of the cross ultimately leads to life. And may our everyday acts of love, kindness and service become a quiet witness to the hope we have in him.

Welcome Back!  As the summer holidays come to an end, we wish all our children a very happy return to school. We hope yo...
29/08/2026

Welcome Back! As the summer holidays come to an end, we wish all our children a very happy return to school. We hope you have enjoyed a wonderful summer filled with fun, friendship and happy memories. A new school year is a fresh beginning - a chance to learn new things, make new friends and discover the gifts and talents God has given each of us.
Whatever the year ahead brings, remember that God is always with you, guiding and encouraging you. We pray for all our children, families and teachers as they begin this new chapter. May the year ahead be filled with joy, kindness, courage and many opportunities to grow.

Death Notice - The death has occurred peacefully at home of Anna McNicholl (née McClements) RIP. 41 Tirkeeran Road, Glen...
28/08/2026

Death Notice - The death has occurred peacefully at home of Anna McNicholl (née McClements) RIP. 41 Tirkeeran Road, Glenullin. Beloved wife of Hugh Arthur; loving mother of Patricia, Brendan, Damian, Gerard and Roisin.
Daughter of the late Dan and Annie and dear sister of Kitty, Daniel, Seamus, Philomena, Gerald, Bernadette, Josephine and the late Mary and Hugh.

Removal from her late residence on Sunday 30th August for 11:30am Funeral Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Glenullin. Mass can be viewed via the parish youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/). Interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery.

We extend our sympathy to the family circle. Further information available from McKiernan & Sons Funeral Directors and Funeral Times.

Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)Errigal Parish News - 30th August 2026Weekday Masses: St. Mary’s Church: -...
27/08/2026

Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
Errigal Parish News - 30th August 2026

Weekday Masses: St. Mary’s Church: - Tuesday at 9.30am Thursday and First Friday at 10am.
St. Joseph’s Church: - Wednesday at 10am.

St. Mary’s Church - (Vigil): Anniversary Mass -
Anniversary Mass: For Adrian Robinson on Sunday 30th August at 10am.
St. Joseph’s Church - (Vigil) -
First Anniversary Mass - For Susan McNicholl on Sunday 6th September at 11.30am.

Saturday Vigil Mass 6pm - St. Mary’s Church in September.
Eucharistic Adoration: - No Adoration on Bank Holiday Monday.
……………………………………………………………………….

Sick Visitation: Fr. Crowley will attend the sick in his care on Thursday in the morning in Glenullin and the afternoon in Ballerin/Garvagh.

Parish Pastoral Group: Next meeting to prepare for the Parish Mission will take place on Tuesday 1st September in the Parochial House at 8.30pm.

Parish Mission: Parishioners may have heard that the parish will hold a mission in September of this year. It will be delivered by the Dominican Order. As you know it has been some time since the last Mission in the parish. Whilst members of the Parish Pastoral Group continue to organise it, it would be helpful to have a few interested individuals from each end of the parish to help with the organisation. Time commitment should not be great - a few hours between now and September and some input during the week itself. This is a great opportunity to get involved in a significant event for the parish, and if you are interested, please contact Fr. Crowley.
Parish Mission - Sunday 27th September - Friday 2nd October.

Errigal SVP: School Uniform Support: As the new school year approaches, we know that the cost of school uniforms can place a significant financial burden on many families. If you or someone you know needs assistance with the cost of school uniforms, please don't hesitate to contact your local St Vincent de Paul (SVP Errigal) in confidence. Telephone: 07563595868 All enquiries will be treated with sensitivity, respect and complete confidentiality.

Errigal SVP: Could You Spare a Little Time to Help Others? As we prepare to celebrate the Feast of St Vincent de Paul (27th September), the Errigal St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Conference need a couple of volunteers to join our local team. This is a wonderful opportunity to put your faith into action, give something back to our community, and make a real difference to the lives of local individuals and families who are struggling.
No previous experience is necessary. You will be warmly welcomed and fully supported by our local SVP Volunteers, with guidance and training provided.
If you would like to find out more, please contact us on 07563595868. We'd be delighted to hear from you. For more details, please see https://www.svp.ie/northern-ireland/

Errigal: Through Our Eyes - Summer Youth Photography Project: Starting Monday 6th July, all young people under 18 are invited to join Errigal: Through Our Eyes, a summer photography project. The theme is “See what matters. See where God is.” This will celebrate the beauty, faith, kindness, and everyday life of our parish.
Pick up an entry form, then send up to three photos taken within the parish boundaries and a short reflection to the parish email (with parent/guardian consent for under 16s). There are 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in both Primary and Secondary categories, with certificates for everyone. Update Deadline - Please note that the closing date for entries has been postponed until the end of September. We warmly encourage all our young people to take part and share their photographs and reflections. More details will follow soon.

Baptism Dates: The next Baptism dates are Saturday 5th September in St. Mary’s Church at 5pm and St. Joseph’s Church on Sunday 13th September at 12.30pm. The Baptismal Programme for parents/guardians will take place in the Parochial House on Wednesday 2nd September at 7pm. Please register to attend the Baptismal Programme by Saturday 28th August using the parish email address, this will indicate to the Baptismal Team the numbers who will attend the Baptismal Programme.

Gift Aid/Census Cards: Can we please request the return of Gift Aid and Census cards recently circulated so that parish records can be updated during the summer months.

Monday Adoration Adorers: We request if you are available on Monday from after the morning Mass to participate in the rota for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament which takes place until 2.30pm. If interested, please leave your name/contact number in the sacristy and we will follow up.

Feasts during the Week: Monday - St. Aidan of Lindisfarne: Was of Irish descent and was a monk of Iona. When Oswald, the exiled King of Northumbria who had fled for refuge to Iona, returned to his throne in 634, he invited Aidan to come to reconvert his people. Aidan made his headquarters at Lindisfarne. With the aid of the king as interpreter, he was very successful in his mission. He died in 651. Thursday - St. Gregory the Great (540 - 604): A Roman noble who was Prefect of the City before becoming a monk. As pope he established a pattern for the papacy in years to come. He sent missions to Lombardy, Sardinia and England. Patron of musicians. Friday - St. Mac Nissi: Oengus Mac Nissi took his name from his mother Cnes or Ness. It is claimed that Patrick baptised him and taught him the psalms. He chose the district of Connor for his hermitage but later became bishop of his clan. He died early in the sixth century. Saturday - St. Teresa of Calcutta: Anjeze Gonxhe Bojoxhiu was born 26th August 1910 in Skopje, Albania (now north Macedonia) and at eighteen years of age, came to Dublin to become a sister of Loreto with the singular desire to be a missionary in India. She founded in 1950 the Missionaries of Charity to serve the hungry, the unwanted and the dying. Often her faith was tested, her words and actions criticised, yet she was always certain in remaining a servant of Christ who reaches out to the poor. The Missionaries of Christ, once a small number in Calcutta, now number 5000 sisters in 130 countries.

Diocesan Vocations: That the men called to priesthood will be filled with courage and hope as they hear Jesus calling them to follow Him by renouncing themselves, taking up their cross every day, and finding life in Him and in the service of His people.
For further information, please contact the Diocesan Vocations Director, Fr Pat O'Hagan, at [email protected]

The Net: As always, it features a wide variety of news, interesting and inspiring interviews, articles, and photos from parishes across the diocese. You can read the Diocesan newspaper on-line at. or a paper copy is available at the back of the church. Donations welcome.

Church Safeguarding: If you have any concerns regarding Safeguarding children or vulnerable adults in need of protection within the Church please contact: Mrs Marie O’Kane (DLP) on 07596500793 or email: [email protected] (Designated Liaison Person), Diocesan Pastoral Centre, 164 Bishop Street, Derry. - Or PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland) 101 or Social Services Tel: 02871-314090.
Parish Representatives - Tracey McGilligan and Clare Mullan.

St. Joseph’s Church: We present a dual gauge to initiative funds in our parish for the on-going costs associated with the renovation of St. Joseph’s Church. The gauge on the left indicates the funds we require to complete the refurbishment. The gauge on the right reflects the loans we have received from other parishes. (Gauge also available on website and page). Thanks - Donations - Current figure £235.400.00.

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time      Matthew 16:13-20  In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks his disciples a question that ...
22/08/2026

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 16:13-20

In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks his disciples a question that goes to the heart of our faith: “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answers with courage and conviction: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

It is a question Jesus asks each one of us too. We may know about Jesus through Scripture, prayer and the life of the Church, but Jesus invites us to something deeper than simply knowing about him. He asks us to recognise him personally as the Son of God and to place our lives in his hands.

Peter’s answer is a moment of great faith, yet Jesus also reminds him that this faith is a gift from God. The Church itself is built upon this faith, and Christ promises that the powers of evil will not overcome it. These words are a source of hope for us, especially when our own faith feels weak or when the Church faces difficulties.

Our response to Jesus cannot remain only words. To call him “the Christ” means allowing his presence to shape the way we live: how we treat others, how readily we forgive, how we respond to those in need, and how faithfully we carry our own crosses.

Perhaps then, this Gospel invites us to pause and answer Jesus’ question for ourselves: Who is Jesus for me? May we have the grace to recognise him more clearly, trust him more deeply, and follow him more faithfully each day.

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)Errigal Parish News - 23rd August 2026Weekday Masses: St. Mary’s Church: - ...
20/08/2026

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
Errigal Parish News - 23rd August 2026

Weekday Masses: St. Mary’s Church: - Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 10am.
St. Joseph’s Church: - Wednesday at 10am.

St. Mary’s Church - (Vigil): Anniversary Mass -
Anniversary Mass: For Adrian Robinson on Sunday 30th August at 10am.
St. Joseph’s Church - (Vigil) - DDS Mass for deceased members on Saturday 22nd August at 6pm.
Anniversary Mass -

Saturday Vigil Mass 6pm - St. Joseph's Church in August.
Eucharistic Adoration: - Adoration on Monday after Mass until 2.30pm.
……………………………………………………………………….

Parish Pastoral Group: Next meeting to prepare for the Parish Mission will take place on Tuesday 1st September in the Parochial House at 8.30pm.

Parish Mission: Parishioners may have heard that the parish will hold a mission in September of this year. It will be delivered by the Dominican Order. As you know it has been some time since the last Mission in the parish. Whilst members of the Parish Pastoral Group continue to organise it, it would be helpful to have a few interested individuals from each end of the parish to help with the organisation. Time commitment should not be great - a few hours between now and September and some input during the week itself. This is a great opportunity to get involved in a significant event for the parish, and if you are interested, please contact Fr. Crowley.
Parish Mission - Sunday 27th September - Friday 2nd October.

Errigal SVP: School Uniform Support: As the new school year approaches, we know that the cost of school uniforms can place a significant financial burden on many families. If you or someone you know needs assistance with the cost of school uniforms, please don't hesitate to contact your local St Vincent de Paul (SVP Errigal) in confidence. Telephone: 07563595868 All enquiries will be treated with sensitivity, respect and complete confidentiality.

Errigal SVP: Could You Spare a Little Time to Help Others? As we prepare to celebrate the Feast of St Vincent de Paul (27th September), the Errigal St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Conference need a couple of volunteers to join our local team. This is a wonderful opportunity to put your faith into action, give something back to our community, and make a real difference to the lives of local individuals and families who are struggling.
No previous experience is necessary. You will be warmly welcomed and fully supported by our local SVP Volunteers, with guidance and training provided.
If you would like to find out more, please contact us on 07563595868. We'd be delighted to hear from you. For more details, please see https://www.svp.ie/northern-ireland/

Errigal: Through Our Eyes - Summer Youth Photography Project: Starting Monday 6th July, all young people under 18 are invited to join Errigal: Through Our Eyes, a summer photography project. The theme is “See what matters. See where God is.” This will celebrate the beauty, faith, kindness, and everyday life of our parish.
Pick up an entry form, then send up to three photos taken within the parish boundaries and a short reflection to the parish email (with parent/guardian consent for under 16s). There are 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in both Primary and Secondary categories, with certificates for everyone. Update Deadline - Please note that the closing date for entries has been postponed until the end of September. We warmly encourage all our young people to take part and share their photographs and reflections. More details will follow soon.

Baptism Dates: The next Baptism dates are Saturday 5th September in St. Mary’s Church at 5pm and St. Joseph’s Church on Sunday 13th September at 12.30pm. The Baptismal Programme for parents/guardians will take place in the Parochial House on Wednesday 2nd September at 7pm. Please register to attend the Baptismal Programme by Saturday 28th August using the parish email address, this will indicate to the Baptismal Team the numbers who will attend the Baptismal Programme.

Gift Aid/Census Cards: Can we please request the return of Gift Aid and Census cards recently circulated so that parish records can be updated during the summer months.

Monday Adoration Adorers: We request if you are available on Monday from after the morning Mass to participate in the rota for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament which takes place until 2.30pm. If interested, please leave your name/contact number in the sacristy and we will follow up.

Feasts during the Week: Monday - St. Bartholomew: Name occurs in the Synoptic Gospels only in the list of the apostles. He is probably to be identified with Nathanael of Cana, whom Philip brings to our Lord. Preached the Gospel in India. Tuesday - St. Louis (1214 - 70): King of France, father of eleven children, Franciscan tertiary, man of integrity, died in Tunisia on his second Crusade. He is the Parton of the French Monarchy. Thursday - St. Monica (332 - 87): Converted her pagan husband, Patricius, to the faith, and by her prayers and tears brought her son St. Augustine to Christianity and a moral life. Patron saint of mothers. Friday - St. Augustine (354 - 430): Bishop of Hippo, where he lived with a community until his death. His theological influence has been most significant in the Church, especially on the understanding of God’s grace. Patron of theologians. Saturday - Passion of John the Baptist: He is found worthy of a martyr’s death, his last and greatest act of witness to Christ.

Diocesan Vocations: In this Sunday's gospel Peter acknowledges Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, and Jesus confers on Peter "...the keys of the Kingdom..." an image reflected in the First Reading where the Lord says He will "...place the key of David..." on the shoulder of those called to lead His people, those who will be called "father."
For further information, please contact the Diocesan Vocations Director, Fr Pat O'Hagan, at [email protected]

The Net: As always, it features a wide variety of news, interesting and inspiring interviews, articles, and photos from parishes across the diocese. You can read the Diocesan newspaper on-line at. or a paper copy is available at the back of the church. Donations welcome.

Church Safeguarding: If you have any concerns regarding Safeguarding children or vulnerable adults in need of protection within the Church please contact: Mrs Marie O’Kane (DLP) on 07596500793 or email: [email protected] (Designated Liaison Person), Diocesan Pastoral Centre, 164 Bishop Street, Derry. - Or PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland) 101 or Social Services Tel: 02871-314090.
Parish Representatives - Tracey McGilligan and Clare Mullan.

St. Joseph’s Church: We present a dual gauge to initiative funds in our parish for the on-going costs associated with the renovation of St. Joseph’s Church. The gauge on the left indicates the funds we require to complete the refurbishment. The gauge on the right reflects the loans we have received from other parishes. (Gauge also available on website and page). Thanks - Donations - Current figure £235.400.00.

Death Notice - The death has occurred peacefully of Tommy Johnson RIP formerly of Lyttlesdale.Son of the late William an...
19/08/2026

Death Notice - The death has occurred peacefully of Tommy Johnson RIP formerly of Lyttlesdale.

Son of the late William and Bridget; loving brother of the late Jimmy, John, William, Susan McCahon, Maggie Elliott, Joe, Brian and Mary Kelly; a dear brother-in-law; uncle; great uncle; great great uncle and a friend to many.

Removal from McKiernan’s Funeral Home on Wednesday 19th August 2026 at 6.15pm to St. Mary’s Church, Ballerin (arriving approx. 7pm).

Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Thursday 20th August at 10am. Interment afterwards in adjoining cemetery.
We extend our sympathy to the family circle. Further information available from McKiernan & Sons Funeral Directors and Funeral Times.

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time“It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She said, ...
16/08/2026

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” Matthew 15:26–28

When Jesus first encountered this woman, He saw into her soul and perceived the depth of her faith. As God, He knew everything about her—her suffering, her love for her daughter, her perseverance. He also knew He would heal the girl, yet He did not do so immediately. Instead, He engaged in what theology refers to as divine pedagogy—a method of instruction by which God teaches slowly, carefully, and with purpose. In this case, Jesus used the moment to teach His disciples, and us, a profound lesson about humility and unwavering faith. He tested her, and she passed the test marvelously.

Reflect today on the ways God may be inviting you to a deeper faith through silence, delay, or trial. Could He be calling you, like this woman, to heroic humility and steadfast trust? Embrace those moments of divine testing, for they are often the very means by which His greatest works of grace are accomplished—in you and through you.

Divine Teacher and Guide, You teach us through Your Word, Your actions, and even through Your silence. When You are silent in the midst of trials and tribulations, grant me the grace to persevere in faith, trusting that You will never abandon me. Help me to understand that every trial You permit is an invitation to deeper trust, so that Your grace and glory may be revealed in me, and through me, shine forth to others. Jesus, I trust in You.

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78 Ballerin Road
Derry
BT515EQ

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