St. Dominic's Major Seminary

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St. Dominic's Major Seminary We desire to form men for the priesthood who are witnesses to the truth. Visit our website for details: www.sdms.co.zm
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We want to form priests who are highly trained, disciplined and highly motivated with an inner sense of love for the Church of Christ.

TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)First Reading: Isaiah 5:1-7Psalm 80:8 & 11.12-13.14-15 &17b.18-19Second R...
04/10/2026

TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)

First Reading: Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:8 & 11.12-13.14-15 &17b.18-19
Second Reading: Philippians 4:6-9
Gospel: Matthew 21:33-43

The readings today present us with a powerful image of God’s vineyard. In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah describes Israel as the vineyard carefully planted and loved by God. Yet, despite God’s care, the vineyard produces wild grapes instead of good fruit. This reminds us that God’s loving care calls for a faithful response from His people, expressed in lives that bear good fruit.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus uses the image of the vineyard to reveal the relationship between God and His people. The landowner represents God, while the vineyard represents His people, who are entrusted with bearing fruit in response to His care. The tenants refuse to give the landowner the fruit that belongs to him and go so far as to reject his servants and his son. Jesus points to the rejection of God’s messengers and ultimately to His own rejection and death. Yet, God’s plan does not end in rejection. The stone rejected by the builders becomes the cornerstone.

St. Paul, in the second reading, gives us the practical way of remaining fruitful in God’s vineyard. Instead of being consumed by anxiety, we are called to bring everything to God in prayer, with thanksgiving. We are also encouraged to dwell on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and worthy of praise. A life rooted in prayer and guided by these virtues becomes a life that bears good fruit.

As Christians, we are reminded that the vineyard does not belong to us. We are entrusted with it. Our vocation, gifts, studies, communities, and pastoral responsibilities are gifts from God, and they must bear fruit for His people.

The question before us is therefore simple but challenging: What kind of fruit is my life producing for God? May our prayer, formation, and service produce fruits of faith, love, holiness, and genuine concern for others. May Christ, the cornerstone of our lives and vocation, help us to become faithful and fruitful workers in His vineyard.

TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)First Reading: Ezekiel 18:25-28Psalm 25:4-5.6-7.8-9Second Reading: Philippi...
27/09/2026

TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)

First Reading: Ezekiel 18:25-28
Psalm 25:4-5.6-7.8-9
Second Reading: Philippians 2:1-11
Gospel: Matthew 21:28-32

Today’s readings remind us that what matters before God is not simply what we say, but how we respond to His call through our lives. In the first reading, God challenges the people’s understanding of justice. The person who turns away from sin and begins to live rightly is invited to embrace a new way of life. This reminds us that conversion is always possible. God does not define us only by our past; He calls us to turn back to Him and choose what is right.

In the second reading, St Paul presents Christ as the model of Christian life. Though Christ is Lord, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross. His humility shows that Christian discipleship is not about seeking status or recognition but about self-emptying love and putting the good of others before our interests.

The Gospel of Matthew presents us with the parable of the two sons. One initially refuses his father’s request but later changes his mind and goes; the other says yes but does not go. Jesus shows us that obedience is ultimately revealed in action. Words alone are not enough. What matters is whether our lives correspond to what we profess.

For us as Christians, and especially as a community in formation, the readings invite us to examine our response to God’s call. Do our words correspond with our actions? Are we willing to change when we recognise that we have gone the wrong way? Do we imitate Christ by serving others with humility?

May Christ teach us to move beyond merely saying “yes” to God and to express our “yes” through faithful obedience, humble service, and a life transformed by the Gospel. True discipleship is not only found in what we say to God but also in the way we live our “yes” to Him each day.

TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)First Reading: Sirach 27:30-28:7Psalm 103:1-2.3-4.9-10.11-12Second Reading...
13/09/2026

TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)

First Reading: Sirach 27:30-28:7
Psalm 103:1-2.3-4.9-10.11-12
Second Reading: Romans 14:7-9
Gospel: Matthew 18:21-35

Today’s readings place forgiveness at the heart of Christian life. They remind us that we cannot truly live in communion with God while holding on to resentment and refusing to forgive others. In the first reading from the book of Sirach, we are reminded of the dangers of anger, resentment, and revenge. The passage reminds us that we are all in need of God’s mercy. If we ask God to forgive our sins, we must also be willing to forgive those who have hurt us. We cannot seek mercy from God while deliberately refusing to show mercy to others.

St. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, reminds us that we belong to the Lord. Whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. Our lives should not be centered only on ourselves. Since Christ died and rose again so that He might be Lord of both the living and the dead, our relationships with others must also reflect His love and lordship.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive. Jesus’ response points beyond keeping count. Through the parable of the unforgiving servant, He teaches that the forgiveness we receive from God should become the forgiveness we offer to others. The servant who receives mercy but refuses to show mercy reveals the contradiction of receiving God’s forgiveness while remaining unwilling to forgive.

Forgiveness does not mean pretending that wrongs never happened or ignoring justice. Rather, it means not allowing anger and resentment to have the final word. It is a decision to leave room for healing, reconciliation, and God’s grace.

As Christians, we are called to ask ourselves, “Do I forgive others as freely as I ask God to forgive me? Am I holding on to resentment that prevents me from living in peace with others?” May Christ give us humble and merciful hearts so that, having received His forgiveness, we may also learn to forgive, reconcile, and build communion.

TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)First Reading: Ezekiel 33:7–9Psalm 95:1-2.6-7abc.7d-9Second Reading: Romans...
06/09/2026

TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)

First Reading: Ezekiel 33:7–9
Psalm 95:1-2.6-7abc.7d-9
Second Reading: Romans 13:8–10
Gospel: Matthew 18:15–20

Today’s readings place before us a profound Christian responsibility: to love one another and to care for one another’s spiritual well-being. In the first reading, God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for Israel. A watchman cannot remain silent when danger approaches. Likewise, Christian discipleship calls us to have the courage to speak when a brother or sister is straying from God’s ways. This is not about judging or condemning; it is about loving enough to guide one another towards conversion and salvation.

In the second reading, St Paul in his letter to the Romans reminds us that the foundation of this responsibility is love. Love fulfils the law because it seeks the well-being of others. Therefore, fraternal correction must come not from anger, pride, or the desire to prove ourselves right. Such correction must arise from a genuine concern for the dignity and salvation of others.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus presents us with a practical path towards correction and reconciliation: approach the person privately, seek the help of one or two others when necessary, and, if the matter remains unresolved, bring it before the community. This teaches us truth, discretion, patience, reconciliation, and respect for the dignity of others. The goal of correction is not to shame someone but to win back a brother or sister.

Jesus then assures us, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Christian community is therefore built when we learn to walk together in truth, love, forgiveness, and communion.

As Christians, we are invited to ask: Do I have the courage to correct with love? Can I receive correction with humility? Do my words and actions build communion or create division? May Christ teach us to speak the truth with charity, accept correction with humility, seek reconciliation with patience, and never give up on one another.

TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)First Reading: Jeremiah 20:7-9Psalm 63:2.3-4.5-6.8-9Second Reading: Romans...
30/08/2026

TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Year A)

First Reading: Jeremiah 20:7-9
Psalm 63:2.3-4.5-6.8-9
Second Reading: Romans 12:1-2
Gospel: Matthew 16:21-27

Today’s readings remind us that following Christ requires faithfulness, transformation, and sacrifice. In the first reading, Jeremiah shares his struggle with his prophetic vocation. He experiences rejection and suffering because he proclaims God’s word. Yet he cannot remain silent, because God’s word burns within him. Jeremiah shows us that vocation is not free from difficulties. True faithfulness means remaining committed to God even when the mission becomes difficult.

In the second reading, St. Paul calls us to offer ourselves to God as a “living sacrifice." He reminds us that Christian life requires a renewed mind and heart. Our vocation is not only about serving God but also about allowing Him to transform our hearts and lives. We must continually seek and discern His will.

In the Gospel, Jesus reveals that His mission will lead Him to the Cross. He then tells His disciples, “Take up your cross and follow me." Following Christ therefore involves self-denial, sacrifice, and trust. The cross is not a sign of failure but part of the journey towards true life.

Today’s readings invite us to ask: Are we willing to follow Christ when the journey becomes difficult? Like Jeremiah, may we remain faithful. Like Paul, may we offer ourselves to God. And like the disciples, may we courageously follow Christ along the way of the Cross. Following Christ is not always easy, but faithfulness to Him makes every sacrifice meaningful.

Welcome to all joining us through this online livestream for the Deaconate Ordination Mass. We thank you for being part ...
16/05/2026

Welcome to all joining us through this online livestream for the Deaconate Ordination Mass. We thank you for being part of this joyful and sacred celebration as the Church gathers to witness the ordination of new deacons called to serve Christ and His people.

As the Mass begins shortly, we invite you to participate prayerfully from wherever you are, uniting yourselves spiritually with this liturgy through prayer, reflection, and thanksgiving. Please continue praying for the ordinands, that they may remain faithful servants of the Gospel, devoted to prayer, charity, and humble service.

May this celebration bring blessings to you and your families. God bless you all.

16/05/2026

ORDINATION MASS LIVESTREAM IN 6MINUTES ...

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (Year A)First Reading: Acts 6:1-7Second Reading: 1 Peter 2:4-9Gospel: John 14:1-12Today, the fift...
03/05/2026

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (Year A)

First Reading: Acts 6:1-7
Second Reading: 1 Peter 2:4-9
Gospel: John 14:1-12

Today, the fifth Sunday of Easter continues to lead us deeper into the meaning of the Resurrection. Having celebrated Christ’s victory over death, the Church now invites us to reflect on how this new life is lived in practice. Today’s readings present a clear message that the Christian life is built on Christ, lived in community, and directed toward a deeper union with God.

In the first reading, we see the early Church facing a real challenge. There is a complaint among the believers about the distribution of resources, particularly concerning widows. Instead of ignoring the problem, the apostles respond with wisdom. They appoint others to serve, ensuring that both the practical needs of the community and the ministry of the Word are properly cared for. This moment is important because it shows that the Church is not only spiritual but also practical. The growth of the Church depends on unity, service, and shared responsibility. Every member has a role to play.

The second reading deepens this understanding by describing believers as “living stones” built into a spiritual house. Christ is the cornerstone, the one on whom everything depends. To be a Christian, therefore, is not to stand alone but to be part of something greater—a community rooted in Christ. Saint Peter reminds us that we are chosen, called, and set apart to proclaim God’s goodness. This identity is not earned; it is given. Yet it also carries responsibility. We are called to live in a way that reflects the light we have received.

In the Gospel, Jesus speaks words of comfort to His disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” He knows that they are anxious and uncertain. Yet He points them toward trust in Him. He reveals Himself as “the way, the truth, and the life”, making it clear that the path to the Father is found in Him alone. This is not meant to exclude but to guide. Jesus is assuring His disciples that they are not lost; they have a clear direction. To know Christ is to know the way to God.

At the same time, Jesus speaks of a deeper union: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” This reveals the heart of Christian faith—that in Christ, God is made known. The relationship between the believer and Christ is not distant or abstract; it is personal and living. Through Him, we are drawn into communion with God.

When we reflect on these readings together, a clear picture emerges. The Church is a community built on Christ, sustained by service, and guided by His presence. Each believer is a living part of this structure, called to contribute, to grow, and to witness.

In conclusion, the Fifth Sunday of Easter invites us to examine how we are living this reality. Are we building unity in our communities, or creating division? Do we recognise our role as living stones in the Church? And do we truly trust Christ as the way in our daily decisions?

As we continue this Easter journey, may we remain rooted in Christ, active in service, and confident in His guidance. For when our lives are built on Him, we become a living witness of His presence in the world.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (GOOD SHERPHERD SUNDAY) Year A First Reading: Acts of the Apostles 2:14a.36–41Second Reading: 1 ...
26/04/2026

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (GOOD SHERPHERD SUNDAY) Year A

First Reading: Acts of the Apostles 2:14a.36–41
Second Reading: 1 Peter 2:20b–25
Gospel: John 10:1-10

The Fourth Sunday of Easter, known as Good Shepherd Sunday, invites us to reflect on Christ as the one who leads, protects, and gives life to His people. This Sunday holds a special place in the Church because it highlights the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd and also calls the faithful to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. At its heart, this celebration reminds us that the Christian life is not lived alone—we are guided by the voice of the Shepherd who knows us and calls us by name.

In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Peter proclaims with conviction that Jesus, whom the people crucified, has been made both Lord and Christ. This message pierces the hearts of his listeners, leading them to ask, “What must we do?” Peter’s response is clear: “Repent and be baptised.” Here we see the beginning of the Christian journey. To belong to Christ the Shepherd, one must respond with conversion. The people who accept this message are not only forgiven but are also gathered into a new community. The Shepherd calls, and those who hear His voice respond by turning their lives toward Him.

The second reading from the First Letter of Peter presents Christ as the model of patient suffering. He is the one who, though innocent, endured suffering without retaliation, entrusting Himself to God. Through His wounds, we are healed. This passage connects deeply with the image of the Shepherd. Jesus is not a distant leader; He is one who walks with His flock, even through suffering. He knows what it means to face pain, rejection, and injustice. Because of this, believers are invited to follow His example—responding to difficulties not with bitterness, but with trust and perseverance. The Shepherd leads not only in moments of peace but also through the challenges of life.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks of Himself as both the gate and the Shepherd of the sheep. He contrasts His role with that of thieves and strangers who do not care for the flock. The sheep recognise the voice of the true Shepherd and follow Him because they trust Him. This image is both comforting and challenging. It assures us that Christ knows us personally and desires our well-being. At the same time, it calls us to discern whose voice we are listening to in our daily lives.

In a world filled with many voices—some leading to truth, others to confusion—the voice of Christ remains constant. He leads us toward life, not destruction; toward freedom, not fear. When Jesus says, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly,” He reveals the purpose of His mission. The Christian life is not merely about avoiding sin; it is about entering into the fullness of life that Christ offers.

Collectively, these readings present a clear message. The Shepherd calls us to conversion, walks with us through suffering, and leads us into abundant life. To follow Him means listening attentively, trusting deeply, and responding faithfully.

To sum up, Good Shepherd Sunday invites us to ask ourselves some important questions: Do we truly listen to the voice of Christ? Are we willing to follow where He leads, even when the path is not easy? And do we support and pray for those called to serve as shepherds in the Church?

May this Sunday renew in us a deeper trust in Christ, our Shepherd. May we learn to recognise His voice in Scripture, in prayer, and in the teachings of the Church. And as we follow Him, may we also become signs of His care and love to others. For it is in listening to the true Shepherd that we find the path to life.

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER (Year A)First Reading: Acts of the Apostles 2:14, 22–33Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:17–21Gospel: Luk...
19/04/2026

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER (Year A)

First Reading: Acts of the Apostles 2:14, 22–33
Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:17–21
Gospel: Luke 24:13–35

The Third Sunday of Easter invites us to reflect on a simple but profound truth: the risen Christ walks with us, even when we do not recognise Him. The joy of the Resurrection is not only something we celebrate; it is a reality we are called to experience in our daily lives. Today’s readings show us how this encounter with the risen Lord transforms confusion into understanding, fear into faith, and disappointment into hope.

In the first reading, Peter stands before the people and boldly proclaims the truth about Jesus. He explains that Jesus, who was crucified, has been raised by God and exalted. What is important here is the transformation in Peter himself. The same disciple who once denied Jesus now speaks with courage and clarity. His strength comes not from himself, but from his encounter with the risen Christ. This reminds us that faith is not simply about knowledge; it is about a personal encounter that gives us the courage to witness.

The second reading deepens this reflection by reminding us of the cost of our redemption. Saint Peter speaks of a faith rooted in the precious blood of Christ, a sacrifice that brings new life. This faith calls us to live with reverence and trust in God. Even though we do not see Christ physically, we believe in Him and rejoice with a deep and lasting joy. The Christian life, therefore, is a journey of faith—trusting in what we cannot see, yet knowing that Christ is truly present.

The Gospel of Luke presents the beautiful story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. They are discouraged and confused, walking away from Jerusalem after the death of Jesus. As they walk, Jesus joins them, but they do not recognise Him. He listens to their struggles, explains the Scriptures to them, and slowly opens their hearts. In this way, Jesus reveals Himself as the evangeliser par excellence, the perfect model of all Christian witness. He is present, He accompanies, He listens, He questions, He interprets the Scriptures, and ultimately He breaks the bread. It is in this complete movement of encounter that the disciples come to recognise Him. This shows the profound connection between the Word and the Eucharist: Christ is made known both in the Scriptures and in the breaking of the bread. The People of God, therefore, do not only need to hear about Christ, but are called to encounter Him personally, especially in the Eucharist.

It is only in the breaking of the bread that their eyes are opened, and they recognise Him. This moment is deeply meaningful. It shows us that Christ is often present in our lives in ways we do not immediately recognise—especially in times of confusion, disappointment, or doubt. Like the disciples, we may feel that our hopes have failed. Yet Christ walks with us, speaks to us through His Word, and reveals Himself in the Eucharist.

The journey of the Emmaus disciples is also our journey. They move from sadness to joy, from doubt to faith, and from leaving the community to returning to it with renewed conviction. Their encounter with the risen Christ changes their direction and gives them a mission: to share what they have experienced.

In conclusion, the readings of today invite us to recognise that the risen Christ is not distant. He walks with us in our daily lives, especially in moments when we feel lost or uncertain. Like Peter, we are called to witness with courage. Like the early believers, we are called to live in faith and hope. And like the disciples of Emmaus, we are invited to recognise Christ in the Word and in the breaking of the bread.

As we go forward, let us ask for the grace to recognise Christ walking with us. May our hearts, like those of the disciples, burn within us as we listen to His Word, and may we encounter Him in the Eucharist. And having encountered Him, may we return to our daily lives with renewed faith, ready to share the joy of the Resurrection with others.

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St. Dominic's Major Seminary Plot #09/4889 Mutende Road
Lusaka
10101

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