A Moment To Pause: Saturday 30th May 2026

Good morning and welcome to the Oblate time of prayer and reflection today by Sarah Braid, a member of the Oblate Parish of St Joseph's, Colwyn Bay. Today's Gospel is from the Holy Gospel according to the Gospel of Mark, chapter 11, verses 27 to 33. In this Gospel, the religious leaders asked Jesus, By what authority are you doing these things? It is actually, I think, a quite an important question, but what struck me most was the fear. Underneath the conversation the leaders seem afraid. Afraid of saying the wrong thing. Afraid of losing status. Afraid of the reaction of the people around them. Because of that fear, they cannot fully engage with Jesus or grow in understanding. The conversation becomes more about protecting themselves than searching honestly for the truth. It made me reflect on how fear can sometimes stop us learning, changing, or deepening our understanding. Fear can make us defensive rather than open. This Gospel, to me is a reminder that growth often requires humility, honesty, and the courage to remain open even when we feel uncertain. Thank you for reflecting with us today.