Each year during Holy Week the Church reads two different accounts of Jesus’ passion. On Palm Sunday the account is from one of the first three Gospels (this year it is from Mark), while on Good Friday it is always from John. Thus the liturgy makes it possible to note how very different the Gospel passions are, each offering a unique vantage point from which to see and understand a crucified Christ.
This short course will begin with an introduction to the passion narratives and will be followed by two sessions offering an accessible guide to the passion account in Mark and two on the account in John. It is hoped that reflection on these texts will reveal fresh and striking insights into many familiar stories and enrich the experience of Holy Week for those who participate in the liturgy.
Brian is a tutor in the theology stream. Originally from Birmingham, Brian studied philosophy and theology at the Gregorian University, Rome and later gained a Masters Degree in Franciscan Studies from St. Bonaventure’s University, New York. He has given retreats and courses throughout the UK and Ireland, North America, the Far East and Australia. He taught at the International Franciscan Study, Canterbury and at Campion House, Osterley before joining the Mount Street Jesuit Team when it began in 2004. Brian also taught at Heythrop College on the Foundation Degree in Pastoral Ministry. His particular interest is in opening up the Scriptures to people, young and old, at a level that they can understand and seek to apply to their daily lives. Brian is married to Deborah who works for CAFOD. They live in Buckinghamshire.