Maula Cathedral Marks 7th Sunday of the Word of God

On Sunday, January 25, 2026, Maula Parish joined the universal Catholic Church in celebrating the seventh Sunday of the Word of God. This year’s celebration was held under the theme: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16).

The day, observed annually on the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, serves as a call to the faithful to deeper reflection, celebration, and dissemination of the Holy Scriptures.

During the Eucharistic celebration, Parish Priest Reverend Father Francis Lekaleka dedicated his homily to teaching parishioners about the origins and power of the Bible.

Father Lekaleka provided a historical perspective, reminding the congregation that the early Christians during the time of Jesus did not have the New Testament as we know it today. He noted that while the writings began early, it took several centuries for the Church to formally compile the New Testament canon.

"The Holy Bible is truly touched by the Holy Spirit," Fr. Lekaleka emphasized, citing John 1:1 to illustrate the eternal nature of the Word. He also drew a connection to the liturgy, pointing out that the opening greeting of the Mass—"The Lord be with you"—is a recognition of God’s living presence through His Word.

Fr. Lekaleka urged the parishioners to move beyond passive hearing. He challenged them to:

• Listen actively to the proclamation of the Word during Mass.

• Internalize the Gospel, keeping it within their hearts.

• Live by its directives, ensuring that Scripture guides their daily decisions and moral conduct.

The Sunday of the Word of God was established by Pope Francis in 2019 through his Apostolic Letter, Aperuit illis. The initiative aims to strengthen the bond between the Risen Lord, the believing community, and Sacred Scripture.

As the celebration concluded, the message remained clear: Scripture is not a dead letter to be studied, but a living presence meant to bear fruit in the lives of every Christian and their community.