Parish Bulletin
PARISH NEWS
Who is Jairus?
Jairus is an interesting, if fleeting, character in scripture (Mark 5:21-24,35-43). Certainly parents relate immediately with him. We don’t know how much he knew about Jesus or how interested he would have otherwise been about him. As an important synagogue official he probably shared the general disapproval of Jesus by religious authorities. By the same token he must have heard, or perhaps even witnessed, impressive accounts of healing by this teacher from outside the religious establishment.
We know too how preconceptions can evaporate in the face of our child’s immediate crisis. Jairus didn’t hesitate. He could have sent servants or his wife but it seems he knew - that bloke from Nazareth can save her and I need to find him myself and humbly beg him to do so. Never mind what religious authorities or anyone else might say or think. Never mind the effects on my community standing or my career. My beloved daughter is dying and I will do whatever I must. Perhaps it was awkward kneeling before Jesus and begging, but he was desperate.
Even after her apparent death, Jesus unwaveringly told him to “Only Have Faith” and so Jairus did. Those were the words that he needed to hear. Without trust, Jesus curative action would be frustrated and the vibe of the disparaging and distrusting mob was so negative, he has them ejected. With only the faithful couple and the disciples around him, Jesus raises the girl. Amid the “astonishment” we can picture the joy of Jairus and his wife as their beloved daughter is restored to them in full health. What does Jairus do next? We don’t know, but it is hard to imagine that the encounter left him and his family unchanged. Probably they became devoted disciples. That we might have the faith of Jairus!
Deacon Mark Kelly
2021 SACRAMENTS
An Invitation is extended to our Grade 6 families who wish to have their children continue their journey of initiation into the life of the Catholic Church Community of Warragul & Drouin, through the Sacrament of Confirmation this year. This Sacrament is for children who have celebrated the Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. Your family will receive an invitation letter with more details via Operro through your school.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Sacrament of Confirmation Process please come along to our Parent & Child Information Evenings on Wednesday 21st July at 7.00pm, St Ita’s Church, Drouin or Thursday 22nd July at 7.00pm, St Joseph’s Church, Warragul.
For more information please contact Thérèse at Parish Office 5623 1642 or on Mobile : 0499 116 428
FIRST COMMUNION
The Parish and school community of St Ita's would like to congratulate all our students who completed their Sacrament of First Communion last Sunday. Please receive our prayers, thoughts and best wishes as you continue on your Sacramental journey.
