Welcome to St Andrew's Parish, Rothesay
The Diocese of Argyll and the Isles has many parishes in some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. Mountains, glens, lochs, rivers, and the sea give a dramatic background to our heritage, both past and lived. Many lives continue to give witness to our faith and how it is celebrated here.
Among the Highlands and the Islands is the Isle of Bute with its main town Rothesay and just a few hundred yards from the ferry terminal, is the magnificent Catholic Church of St. Andrew’s. Now just shy of being one hundred years old, St. Andrew’s continues to be the centre of Catholic worship in Bute.
On this website we would like to introduce you to our beautiful Church and parish, showcasing our long history and highlighting some of the many things we do today.
Feel free to browse the menu and explore the site.
17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
‘The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant … who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.’
The readings for this Sunday invite us to think about what we truly value. They show the importance of wisdom, encouraging us to trust God’s plan, and to value the kingdom of heaven above all else.
Solomon responds humbly when, in a dream, God asks him, ‘what shall I give you?’ Solomon seeks an ‘understanding mind … to discern between good and evil in governing God’s people’. Putting others’ needs before his own pleases God, who gifts Solomon with wisdom. (First Reading)
The Gospel also talks about choosing what is most important. Jesus tells two parables describing the value of the kingdom of heaven. We hear how coming across treasure brings someone great joy, while finding the one pearl of great price impels a merchant to buy and keep it.
The Psalmist describes God’s word as more important than the finest gold: it is true treasure, offering lasting wisdom, comfort and delight.
St Paul (Second Reading) assures us that God already has a plan in place for all who love God. Even when life is difficult, God is guiding and shaping us to be like Jesus.
This week, we pray to live each day with the wisdom to know what truly matters, and to let go of anything that holds us back. ‘Lord, help us to share the joy of following you, wherever and however we can.’
(With thanks to St Beuno's Outreach)
ARTWORK
Private Collection
Pope Leo's Prayer Intention for July
Click the image above to play the video
For respect for human life
Let us pray for the respect and protection of human life in all its stages, recognizing it as a gift from God.
Visit the website of Pray With the Pope
Visit the website of Pray As You Go for a reflection on this month's video.
