June 2026
Kia ora and greetings,
Words Matter… This is one of the key messages from Fr Kevin Waldie sm in his recent presentation for Titipounamu Study & Joy. In response to some enquiries of people who missed this presentation on ‘The Institution of the Last Supper’, we now offer two ways of gaining a glimpse into this interesting topic: a recent Muffin Talk recording with Fr Kevin and my reflection based on his presentation.
In addition to weekly reflections on the Readings at Mass, I have recently written a reflection to remember the Chernobyl Disaster in today’s Ukraine which happened 40 years ago. This was not only an environmental disaster which had a huge impact on thousands of people, but it was also a communication disaster…
Last week I recorded an interview with Fr Vimal Tirimanna CSsR. He has been involved in the Synodal Journey from the moment that Pope Francis called it – and he continues to be involved. In our interview he gives some insights about the meaning of this initiative and how it is continuing with Pope Leo XIV. A special Muffin Talk not to be missed.
Our recent Muffin Talk interviews are:
- Álvaro Cardinal Ramazzini (Guatemala): Why did Pope Francis call for a Synodal Journey?
This Muffin Talk is recorded in two languages. The first part is in English, and the second part is in Spanish. The translation of the Spanish part is available on the website. - Fr Vimal Tirimanna CSsR (Sri Lanka / Vatican): Insights from the Synodal Journey
- Fr Kevin Waldie sm: (New Zealand): Words Matter – The Institution of the Last Supper
Please also check out the News & Views page with short articles on events and reflections on the Sunday Scriptures.
Upcoming Events
Transforming Christian-Muslim Dialogue with Fr Joseph Victor Edwin SJ
Monday, 20 July 2026, 7-8.30pm (Zoom). Koha/Donation.
Please register to receive the Zoom link.
You might also be interested in two events organised by the Auckland Inter-Faith Council:
Monday, 15 June, 7-9pm. Parnell. Our Common Future built on Faith. (Key Note Speaker: Dr Melissa Derby)
Saturday, 18 July, 3.30-5pm. Browns Bay. Virtues Project. (Facilitator: Margaret Mohamed)
For further information, please see our Interfaith page.
Many blessings,
Beate
Beate Matthies—Titipounamu Study & Joy
https://www.facebook.com/TitipounamuStudyandJoy
YouTube: @titipounamustudyandjoy
Between Two Popes – Journal of a Pilgrim
There is now a printed version of the accounts of my pilgrimage to Rome in 2025. My journey started two days after Pope Leo XIV was elected and finished one day before his inauguration.
This is a compact guide through the main churches and Holy Doors in the Year of Jubilee. A combination of historic facts, stories and a journal. Easy to read with many pictures. Available through this website.
