From Fr. Jim …

Today’s gospel is taken from the Gospel according to John . It comes from that part of his gospel called the “Book of Signs.” John structured his gospel with seven of these signs in order to bring his community along to a deeper faith in Jesus and a deeper trust that through Him God is drawing God’s people together into a deeper faith and richer life.  This particular passage comes from the beginning of the Bread of Life discourse (John 6:1-71), so called because Jesus teaches that he is the Bread of Life, the food that will forever sustain those who believe in him. The multiplication of the loaves is the fourth sign that appears in the Gospel according to John.

It is the only miracle story found in all four gospels (occurring twice in Mark and Matthew.) The main reason could be that it was seen as the anticipation of the Last Supper and of the consequent Church’s celebration of the Eucharist. The story is filled with images that we now associate with the Eucharistic banquet: “Jesus took the loaves of bread,” “gave thanks”, and “distributed them.” This ritual reminds us of the daily bread we ask for when we pray the Our Father. The story symbolizes the food that is really available through Jesus. It connotes a new exodus. The twelve baskets of leftovers may point to the banquet of the Messiah at the final coming of the kingdom. This miracle also looks backward to the feeding of Israel with manna in the desert at the time of the Exodus (Ex 16), a miracle that according to some Jewish beliefs would be repeated in the messianic age (2 Baruch 29:8).

This “sign” from today’s gospel is also for us so that we might be drawn together into a deeper faith and richer life. Some points for reflection could be to ask ourselves how are we helping to satisfy the spiritual hunger and thirst that haunts ourselves and others these days. How ready are we to share what we have with the hungry among us?

Pope Francis visit

Can’t get on Septa’s website to get your pass for the Papal Mass?

Don’t want to be in a large crowd on the Ben Franklin Parkway?

Join us on Sunday, September 27 ^th in the gym to watch the mass on a large screen. After the Mass we will have pizza and refreshments. Watch the bulletin for more information!

SAVE THE DATE!!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27