The Beatitudes

Welcome

Since Covid, we’ve all been obliged to take stock and look at ourselves. What is it I really want deep down? When am I flourishing? How to live so as to flourish?

One contemporary way of reading the beatitudes is to replace the word “blessed” or “happy” with the word “flourishing.” This is recommended by Jonathan T. Pennington in his book The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing (2017).

With the translation adjusted in this way, the sense of being invited to something more, something richer is very much in place. Happiness is not just a feeling, it is a way of being from within. In our better moments, we all recognise this, even if only by a fleeting glance. And Jesus’ teaching speaks directly to our inner selves, to the heart always in pilgrimage.

The Readings

• Full notes (PDF)
• Gospel notes (Audio)
• Gospel notes (Portable)
• Extra Gospel Exploration (YouTube)

Some Inspiration

The beatitudes are put to music in the Orthodox Liturgy. Here’s an intense performance from the monastery of St Elizabeth (Minsk).

Tarsus Scripture School: Lent and Holy Week 2022

Our Lent and Easter programme is focused on the Gospel of Luke. “Jesus: prophet, martyr, Risen one in Luke-Acts.” To register, click here.

Reading for Lent and Holy Week 2022

To buy a copy online, click on the image.

Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Kieran J. O’Mahony OSA