Short Homily: Friday – Second Week of Easter

Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
Readings: Acts 5:34–42 | Psalm 27:1, 4, 13–14 | John 6:1–15
Theme: “The Truth Cannot Be Silenced”



Today we honour Saint Athanasius, the bold bishop who refused to compromise on the truth that Jesus Christ is true God and true Man. Our readings—from Acts 5, where the apostles are punished but rejoice in suffering for the Name, to John 6, where Jesus multiplies the loaves and feeds the hungry—call us to bold witness and trust in divine abundance. The Psalm reminds us, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” In today’s South Africa, where the loudest voices often drown out the true ones, Athanasius reminds us that truth, though battered, cannot be silenced.
(And let's be honest, being exiled five times is still better than being stuck five hours in Pretoria traffic…)

Acts 5:34–42 The apostles are flogged and ordered not to speak in the name of Jesus—but they leave rejoicing. Why? Because suffering for truth is not a loss, it's a badge of honour.

In the Gospel, Jesus feeds a massive crowd with five barley loaves and two fish—a reminder that God doesn’t just provide—He overflows.

Saint Athanasius defended the core truth of our faith: Jesus is divine. Even when the political powers, religious leaders, and even fellow clergy turned on him, he stood firm. That’s courage. That’s hope. That’s faith in action.

Eucharist Connection:

When we come to this altar, we don’t just receive “a nice symbol.” We receive the same Jesus Saint Athanasius fought for. This is the Bread of Life that feeds our fears, heals our wounds, and makes us strong witnesses.

Reflection Question:

Am I willing to stand for the truth of Jesus—even when it's inconvenient or unpopular?

Daily Practical Application:

  • Don’t be afraid to correct someone gently when they mock or misunderstand your faith.

  • Feed someone today—literally or spiritually.

  • Spend a moment today in silence before the Lord and say: “I believe, help my unbelief.”

If you're struggling—whether it’s money, health, or feeling invisible—know this: God sees. Like He saw the hungry crowd. Like He vindicated Athanasius. Hang on. Miracles happen after faith, not before.

What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Walk the Jubilee journey as a Pilgrim of Hope:

  • Learn the Creed.

  • Teach someone to pray.

  • Visit the sick.

  • Light a candle and say, “Jesus, be my Bread today.”
    As South Africans, let’s be a people who speak truth, live generously, and shine light even when Eskom doesn’t.

Inspirational Quote:

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” — Hebrews 13:8
The truth doesn’t change just because the times do.

May we be bold like Athanasius,

Joyful like the apostles,
And trusting like the crowd who sat on the hillside.
Lord Jesus, Bread of Life,
Help us to stand for truth,
To live with courage,
And to walk as Pilgrims of Hope in our nation and Church.
Amen.

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