At first we may see very little point in reading this passage from Romans 16 at Mass, as there seems to be little teaching in it. However, let us pause for a moment to reflect according to Paul's principle for reading Scripture: "all these things ¡K were written so that we, learning perseverance and the encouragement which Scripture gives, should have hope" (Romans 15:3). We will see how much teaching is implicit in many of the words Paul uses in passing. Thus he speaks of "the service of Christ Jesus", of "outstanding Apostles", of "fellow workers": mission is important in the life of the Christian, and we are all called to be "in Christ" and to the service of Jesus, The phrase "in Christ" or variations of it sums up a great deal of Paul's doctrine, as it permeates all his letters and comes to fruition in the doctrine of the Mystical Body.

His expressions of gratitude reflect that gratitude which is so important in the opening greetings of his Letters, a gratitude which he teaches us to practise: "Always be grateful" (Col 3:15) and "Always be joyful, pray constantly, and for all things give thanks; this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus" (1Thess 5:16-18). Let us end with Paul's own prayer: