Homily – 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)

Last week representatives from CatholicCare Victoria (CCV) delivered a presentation to our parish on the work that they do for the most vulnerable members of the community. CCV is the social service agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and the dioceses of Victoria. Across the state, CCV provides services including child and family support, school counselling, homelessness services, and refugee assistance. There was a particular focus on asylum seekers. Asylum seekers are those who flee their country because of war and persecution – yet do not have legal status to be recognised as refugees for government support.

When I think about asylum seekers I think about the theme of this Jubilee Year – Pilgrims of Hope. Modern day pilgrims are those on a spiritual journey walking from one site to another. There are challenges of course; walking long distances, carrying limited supplies and setbacks that might occur on the way. Pilgrimages are not holidays. Back in the Middle Ages, pilgrims faced far greater risks to injuries. They would be received by places of hospitality. These places were not hotels; hospitality literally means a hospital where they were treated for their injuries. Anyone, including strangers, were welcomed and received the care that they need to resume their journey. This kind of care for all gives insight into the Kingdom of God. God’s kingdom is an expansive and welcoming attitude given to the most alien of people on earth.

“And those from east and west, from north and south, will come to take their places at the feast in the Kingdom of God. Yes, there are those now last who will be first, and those now first who will be last.” 

Asylum seekers are literally the last in society not recognised and face the prospect of an uncertain future. Like many in parishes and the wider society, people do have a concern for our brothers and sisters that they find acceptance. The Gospel call for us is to give them hope through our help and support, materially and spiritually.

By Fr Hoang Dinh