Short Homily – Thursday of the Seventh Week of Easter

Theme: “Consecrated in the Truth, Faithful in Mission”
Readings:

  • Acts 22:30; 23:6–11

  • Psalm 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11

  • John 17:20–26

  • Memorial: Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr


😂 Introduction 

A seminarian once asked an old missionary priest how he survived in tough rural missions without electricity, decent roads, or good food. The old man replied, “Easy. I just imagined myself in heaven… and then adjusted my expectations daily!”
Today we celebrate St Boniface, a missionary who didn’t just adjust expectations — he changed nations, with truth and love.

🔍 Expanded Exegesis

In John’s Gospel, Jesus prays for unity: “May they all be one.” He knows that our greatest witness to the world isn’t clever arguments — it’s how we live and love together.

St Paul, in Acts, is standing trial — again. He boldly declares his belief in the resurrection, knowing it will split his audience. Paul knew how to speak truth in context, always grounded in Christ.

St Boniface lived this out. An English monk who became the “Apostle of Germany,” he faced paganism, resistance, even betrayal. But he didn’t give up. His mission? Preach Christ. His method? Patience, courage, truth — and a deep love for the people he served.

🕊️ Eucharist Connection

Jesus gave His Body for unity. At every Mass, we are not just receiving Christ — we are being formed into one Body. That means forgiving the neighbour who frustrates you, and standing in hope with those who are struggling.

❓ Question for Reflection

When last did I take a bold stand for truth, not with anger, but with love?

👣 Daily Practical Application

Today, find one moment where you can speak truth with gentleness — in your family, workplace, or community. Perhaps it’s correcting misinformation with kindness, or defending someone quietly under attack.

🌍 For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

You may feel like Paul before the Sanhedrin or Boniface before hostile tribes. Stand firm. God has placed you where you are not to be crushed, but to be Christ. Remember His words: “Take courage!” (Acts 23:11)

🎉 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Use this year to build bridges: reconcile with someone, start a small ecumenical or interfaith outreach, or support young people in faith formation. Like Boniface, let’s plant the Church where the world least expects it.

🇿🇦 South African Touch

Our country needs more Bonifaces — people who stand firm in truth but always with Ubuntu. Unity in South Africa begins not in Parliament, but in our parishes and families.

💬 Inspiration Quote

“Truth without love is brutality. Love without truth is hypocrisy.” – St Boniface (paraphrased)

🙏 Conclusion & Short Prayer

Let us imitate Christ who prayed that we may be one. Like St Paul and St Boniface, let us be bold in truth and gentle in heart.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus,
You prayed for unity and sent Your Spirit to guide us in truth.
May we be courageous like Boniface, faithful like Paul, and always rooted in Your love.
Make us one. Make us whole. Make us hopeful.
Amen.

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