Walking Humbly, Welcoming All

This Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 14:1, 7–14) challenges us to reflect on humility and true hospitality. At a meal with the Pharisees, Jesus notices how people scramble for the places of honour. Instead, He tells a parable reminding us that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. He goes further, inviting us to practice hospitality not as an act of social repayment but as a radical welcome. To invite the poor, the lame, and the blind, those who cannot repay us in worldly terms.

The Brigidine tradition speaks powerfully into this Gospel. Brigid was known for her simplicity and humility, choosing to live among the poor and to share whatever she had with those in need. Stories tell of her giving away her family’s wealth to feed the hungry and shelter the stranger. She reminds us that true honour in God’s eyes is found not in status or privilege, but in generosity, service and hospitality.

At our College, we are called to walk humbly and to embody this spirit of welcome in practical ways. Catholic Social Teaching reminds us of the preferential option for the poor, the belief that the needs of the most vulnerable must take priority in our decisions, relationships and community life. This is not about charity alone, but about building a just and compassionate society where all are valued and included.

In our classrooms, playgrounds and wider community, this Gospel challenges us to ask:

• Do we seek recognition and status, or do we choose to serve quietly?
• Do we extend hospitality only to those who can give back, or do we embrace those on the margins?
• How can we, like Brigid, make space at our tables, both literal and metaphorical, for those most in need?

In so many ways it is our amazing young people who lead us by example. There are countless ways each day that our students care for each other and the community. The up-and-coming initiative by the students, Brigid’s Bites, aims to provide meals and companionship to those struggling in our community. They do this, not for recognition, but because they see a need, an injustice and know in their hearts that they must act.

As a Brigidine community, let us continue to nurture humility, resist the lure of privilege, and live out a faith that welcomes, uplifts and honours the dignity of every person. In this way, we not only follow the example of Jesus, but also weave St Brigid’s legacy of hospitality and care into our everyday lives.

Loving God,
You call us to walk humbly and to welcome all.
Give us hearts like Jesus, ready to serve without seeking recognition.
Teach us to make space at our tables for the poor and the marginalised,
so that our community may reflect your justice, compassion, and love.
Through the example of St Brigid, may we share generously,
and live as people of hospitality and hope.

Amen.

John Riddle

Director of Catholic Identity and Mission

Head of Counselling Services