Cycle A
Mary, The Mother of God January 1 Luke 2:16-21
“Mary treasured all these things and reflected on them in her heart.”
1. What Christmas events do you hold in your heart that you repeatedly reflect on?
2. Looking back on the year, what was the most significant event that you or your faith community undertook to give birth to God in the community?
Feast of Epiphany Matthew 2:1-12
“…Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is the newborn king of the Jews?'”
1. What helps you stay focused on God’s presence in everyday situations where God is usually not mentioned?
2. From your experience, when have you come to appreciate people you used to pass by or not notice?
Baptism of the Lord Matthew 3: 13-17
“John said…. I should be baptized by you, yet you come to me!”
1. Give examples from your experience when you expected to be the receiver but turned out to be the giver.
2. When in your life have you found some peace even in time of turmoil and suffering?
Second Sunday of Ordinary Time John 1:29-34
“‘…I came baptizing with water he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.'”
1. Share a time when God was working in your life, but you did not know it until later.
2. When or how have you been slow to recognize God in a particular person?
Third Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 4:12-23
“‘Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.'”
1. What did you let go of in your life in order to bring light and healing into the life of another recently?
2. Describe your struggle when asked to do something that took you from familiar surroundings or routine.
Fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:1-12
“‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.'”
1. Which of the Beatitudes has the most impact on you as they are read? Why?
2. Who or what experience has helped you to value what money can’t buy?
Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:13-16
“‘…your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.'”
1. When were you able to brighten someone’s day?
2. Who in your life might help you find courage, meaning, energy for living?
Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:17-37
“Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother…”
1. Remember an experience when keeping “just the letter of the law” was not enough for you.
2. Relate an experience when rules and regulations began as an obstacle but became an opportunity to grow in faith.
Seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:38-48
“‘When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one to him as well.'”
1. Recall a time when the attitude or activity of another person made you angry. Did the anger control your actions or your attitude? For how long? How did you break free?
2. Relate a time when you tried to “turn the other cheek” and it worked. Relate a time when it didn’t work. Relate a time when you were the wrongdoer and another person never quit loving you.
Eight Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 6:24-34
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
1. How do you serve God?
2. Remenber an expetience when you trusted completely.
Ninth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 7:21-27
“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock”
1. How do I actively seek to connect my faith into all the corners of my life?
2. What are the Words of God that burn in my heart? How do I act on them?
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LENT
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First Sunday of Lent Matthew 4:1-11
“Not on bread alone do we live but on every utterance that comes from the mouth of God.”
1. This week, how will you deal with the people or things that might tempt you to forget God’s love and mercy in your life?
2. What words of the Lord have helped you to celebrate your life?
Second Sunday of Lent Matthew 17:1-9
Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, how good it is for us to be here!'”
1. Recall a dazzling moment when you experienced the marvel of Jesus in others; within yourself.
2. In what ways do I take the time to appreciate the spectacle of God’s creation in nature?
Third Sunday of Lent John 4: 4-42
“‘Whoever drinks the water I give him will never be thirsty; no, the water I give shall become a fountain within him, leaping up to provide eternal life.'” Like the person who reaches into a well to draw water to quench a thirst, we have, each of us, at some time in our lives, needed to reach into our inner selves to draw the strength to deal with a particular situation.
1. How were you able to do this?
2. What positive feeling came from knowing that you had this inner resource?
Fourth Sunday of Lent John 9:1-41
“‘While I am in the world I am the light of the world.'”
1. At this time in your life, in what ways have you seen the light of Jesus; been afraid to see the light of Jesus; refused to see the light of Jesus?
2. What have you found helpful in dealing with people who belittle your faith?
Fifth Sunday of LentApril 10, 2011 John 11:1-45
When Lazarus came out of the tomb, Jesus said, “Untie him and let him go free.”
1. What are the areas in your life that keep you bound? In what ways do you need to be freed in order to live more fully?
2. What death of a relationship, emotional scars, practical concerns or past hurts now block your faith is Jesus?
Passion Sunday Matthew 26:14–27:66
“My God, my God why have you forsaken me?”Jesus suffered on many levels; physical, emotional, and spiritual.
Recall a time of your own suffering. Has it made you bitter or better? Why?
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EASTER
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Easter Sunday John 20:1-9
“The Lord has been taken from the tomb! We don’t know where they have put Him!”
1. Where are you looking for the Lord?
2. Are you finding the Lord where you are looking?
Second Sunday of Easter John 20:19-31
Christ risen from the dead is among us and says to us, “Blessed are you who have not seen and have believed.”
1. Share an experience when you heard news that was too good to be believed.
2. What steps have you taken to deepen your belief in Jesus?
Third Sunday of Easter Luke 24:13-35
Jesus appears to two disciples on the road to Emmaus. Just as the disciples did not recognize Christ until their hearts were opened to His presence, we also fail to recognize Christ in one another on our faith journey.
1. Take this time to call to mind someone who has comforted you, laughed with you, and listened to you along your journey, a person who has helped you to realize your specialness. Know that Christ has revealed Himself through this person.
2. Take the time to tell this person how they have helped you.
Fourth Sunday of Easter John 10:1-10
“The sheep hear the shepherd’s voice as he calls his own by name and leads them out,”
1. Recall a time when you became aware of God’s voice and responded.
2. How do you recognize the shepherd’s voice from among the many others that vie for your attention?
Fifth Sunday of Easter John 14:1-12
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.”
1. If Jesus is the way, do you feel you are on a bumpy dead-end street or a four-lane highway?
2. In troubled times what promises of God give you hope and courage?
Sixth Sunday of Easter John 14: 15-21
“The one who obeys the commandments he has from me is the one who loves me,”
1. What is the difference in your life between obedience out of obligation and obedience motivated by love?
2. When have you experienced the disciplines of daily family life: caring for others’ needs, rides, meals, being available to listen, as obeying Jesus’ commands?
Ascension Sunday Matthew 28: 16-20
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations…..And know that I am with you always, until the end of the world!”
1. What does being a disciple mean to you? In what ways are you living as a disciple?
2. Who has been a disciple
to you in your life?
Pentecost Sunday John 20: 19-23
“Receive the Holy Spirit.”
1. The gift of the Holy Spirit has been given to you through your Baptism. How will you use your gift to draw others to God this day, this week at home, work, school?
2. On the first Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came as a powerful wind and blew away the disciples’ fears. On this Pentecost what fear of yours may be turned over to the power of the Holy Spirit and transformed into positive action?
The Holy Trinity John 3:16-18“
Yes, God so loved the world…”Trinity Sunday praises God the Father for creating us, thanks God the Son for redeeming us, and honors God the Holy Spirit for living within us. We are co-sharers in God’s creation, redemption, and inspiration.
1. Recall the times when you created a new attitude towards an old problem, saved someone or something from disaster, or encouraged a “loser” to try again.
2. Walk on the beach or in the neighborhood and give praise and thanks for the wonders of God’s creation ever-present around you.
The Body and Blood of Christ John 6:51-58
“Those who feed on my flesh and drink my blood remain in me, and I in them.”The Eucharist is a symbol and sacrament of unity, Eucharist makes us one with one another and one with Christ.
1. Tell a story of a community or a family meal where you felt togetherness and acceptance. How does your experience compare/contrast to your understanding of and belief in the Eucharist?
2. What has the celebration of Eucharist meant to you in the various phases of your life?
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ORDINARY TIME
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Fourteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 11:25-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will refresh you.”We are a people of God and through us Jesus does His work.
1. In what ways have you used the opportunities God has given to you to do His work by ministering to your brothers and sisters?
2. How have you found peace and rest, knowing Christ walks with you?
Fifteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 13:1-23
“But as for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty and in another thirty.”
1. What worries have potential to choke your growth in Christ? How an you free your life from these “thorns”?
2. What “crop” does Jesus want believers to yield? What can you do to increase your “crop productivity”?
Sixteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 13:24-43
“The reign of God may be likened to one who sowed good seed… The reign of God is like a mustard seed… The reign of God is like yeast…”
1. Jesus named himself as the farmer who carefully protected the seedlings from being pulled up with the weeds. In this we see the good, forgiving, patient God who is always ready to grant another chance. How do you model the farmer to the people in your life?
2. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a mustard seed and yeast, both of which start out very small, grow wildly, and eventually make an impact on their environment. This is very similar to our own growth. In what ways are you yeast to your family, friends, the kingdom of God?
Seventeenth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 13:44-52
“When he found one really valuable pearl, he went back and put up for sale all that he had and bought it.”
1. Recall a time when you found something very valuable. How did the “find” affect you?
2. What are the pearls in your life and what are you willing to sacrifice in treasuring them?
Eighteenth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 14:13-21
“All those present ate their fill.”
1. Recall a time when you were ready to sit down and relax, and unexpected company arrived. How did you feel as you began the task of feeding and entertaining them? In what ways do you feel you nourished them?
2. In today’s Gospel Jesus meets in the crowd their need for healing. He touches their emptiness. What emptiness in you will you ask Jesus to touch and to heal?
Nineteenth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 14:22-33
“Jesus hastened to reassure them; “Get hold of yourselves! It is I.”
1. Reflect on the times the Lord has invited you “out of the boat.” Did you focus on Jesus or did you depend solely on yourself? What happened?
2. Can you list some of the things that you fear may take you away from Jesus? Now can you bring these fears and put them into the Lord’s hands?
Twentieth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 15:21-28
“The crowds were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the deformed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind able to see, and they glorified the God of Israel.”
1. Who are the people who don’t get your attention and often aren’t included?
2. Relate an experience when your persistence had positive results in a way you did not expect.
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Luke 1:39-56
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,…for he has looked upon his lowly servant.” Mary’s Magnificat is her joyful response in celebration of God’s activity in her life. What does your Magnificat sound like?
Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 16:13-20
Jesus asked, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!”
1. On a personal level, if Jesus were to ask, “Who do you say that I am?” ,how would you respond?
2. How do you feel about letting others know who Jesus is for you?
Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 16:21-27
“What profit would anyone show if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life?”
1. Reflect on your list of life’s priorities. Where does your relationship with Jesus fit in?
2. What does your relationship cost you? Can you tell Jesus today that you are willing to pay the cost?
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 18:15-20
”Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst.”
1. In what ways do you recognize the presence of Jesus and the power of prayer in your interactions with your family, friends, small church community?
2. Through praying together we invite Jesus into our relationships. Invite a loved one, who you are in conflict with, to pray with you for a resolution to your disputes. What could aid in your growth of understanding toward each other?
Twenty-fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 18:21-35
”Lord, when my brother or sister wrongs me, how often must I forgive?”
1. Mercy and forgiveness need to be received. How has the refusal of mercy damaged you, your family, your Christian community?
2. What is the connection between forgiveness, health, and wholeness?
Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Mark 9: 30-37 “Matthew 20:1-16
”Thus, the last shall be first and the first shall be last.”
1. In what ways have you experienced being honored or praised from an unexpected source or for an undeserved reason?
2. What are your thoughts – feelings when you hear Jesus say, “the last shall be first and the first last?”
Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 21:28-32
A man had two sons. He told them to work in his vineyard. One said he was going, but never went; the other said he wasn’t going, but repented and went to work.
1. How has someone else’s forgiveness of you affected your life?
2. Each Sunday we publicly proclaim our belief in Jesus and His forgiveness of us. Tomorrow, in your home or where you work, how will your proclamation become real?
Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 21:33-43
“Then he leased the vineyard out to tenant farmers and went on a journey. When vintage time arrived he dispatched his slaves to the tenants to obtain his share of the grapes.”
1. We are all called to tend the vineyard. We have had encouragement along the way. Who or what has been a help and support to your growth in faith? How has this been helpful to you?
2. How have I, as am member of my parish community, encouraged my parish to grow in faith? How has this been received?
Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 22:1-14
“Come to the feast.”
1. What is your initial response to an invitation?
2. Jesus envisions heaven as a banquet. What are your family meals like? Are they a sign of love and community? How could you make them that way?
Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 22:15-21
“Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, but give to God what is God’s.” Imagine taking a public stance against a government policy because of your faith. In what ways is being an American an obstacle to being Christian and how is it an aid?
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 22:34-40
“You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart, with your whole soul, and with all your mind.”“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
1. We all know people who love God fiercely but do not have a great affection towards people. We also know people who give of themselves generously to others but do not give God enough thought. Do you find yourself identifying with either of these groups? How can you better balance your love for God and your love for your neighbor?
2. In order to love both God and humanity we must first love and respect ourselves. Without recognizing our own worth we cannot accept love from others. Are you aware of the uniqueness with which God has gifted you? How are you special? Can you look in the mirror and truthfully say, “I love you!”?
Thirty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 23:1-12
“The greatest among you will be the one who serves the rest. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, but whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.”
In what ways do I witness the truth in my life, by being consistent in word and action?
1Solemnity of All Souls John 6:37-40
“…Everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day.”
1. Recall one personal experience that reinforced your belief in life after death.
2. Confronting death helps one to live life fully. How true a statement is this in your experience?
Thirty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 25:1-13
“Keep your eyes open, for you know not the day or the hour.”Believers and unbelievers experience the same world of joy or suffering, life and death, but the believer aided by the light of Christ, perceives a different view of the world.
1. How has Christ been a light in the darkness for you?
2. How like the wise virgins in the Gospel parable are you in getting ready to meet the Lord? When do you find your own time for prayer and in what manner do you pray?
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 25:14-30
“A man was going on a journey. He called in his servants and handed his funds over to them according to each one’s abilities.”
1. Your faith in the Lord is a gift from God to you. This week find some way to share this gift with someone. How will you do it?
2. Think of a person who has helped you on your journey with the Lord. What gifts do they use to help you get closer to God?
Christ The King Matthew 25: 31-46
‘The king will answer them, “I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my least brothers and sisters, you did it for me.”’
1. In your family, workplace, neighborhood, which relationship needs your hospitality and generosity? How will you provide it?
2. Why is it that the “least” of our brothers and sisters are treated as invisible by so many? What action can I take to change this injustice?
***TAKE TIME TO RE-ACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH THE SPIRITUAL AND CORPORAL WORKS OF MERCY. LOOK FOR THEM IN THE BULLETIN THIS WEEK.**
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The Spiritual Works of Mercy are: to convert sinners, instruct the ignorant, counsel the wayward, comfort the sorrowing, bear adversities patiently, forgive offenses, and pray for the living and the dead.
The Corporal Works of Mercy are:to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, give drink to the thirsty, shelter the homeless, tend the sick, visit those in prison, and bury the dead.
Mary, The Mother of God January 1 Luke 2:16-21
“Mary treasured all these things and reflected on them in her heart.”
1. What Christmas events do you hold in your heart that you repeatedly reflect on?
2. Looking back on the year, what was the most significant event that you or your faith community undertook to give birth to God in the community?
Feast of Epiphany Matthew 2:1-12
“…Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is the newborn king of the Jews?'”
1. What helps you stay focused on God’s presence in everyday situations where God is usually not mentioned?
2. From your experience, when have you come to appreciate people you used to pass by or not notice?
Baptism of the Lord Matthew 3: 13-17
“John said…. I should be baptized by you, yet you come to me!”
1. Give examples from your experience when you expected to be the receiver but turned out to be the giver.
2. When in your life have you found some peace even in time of turmoil and suffering?
Second Sunday of Ordinary Time John 1:29-34
“‘…I came baptizing with water he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.'”
1. Share a time when God was working in your life, but you did not know it until later.
2. When or how have you been slow to recognize God in a particular person?
Third Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 4:12-23
“‘Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.'”
1. What did you let go of in your life in order to bring light and healing into the life of another recently?
2. Describe your struggle when asked to do something that took you from familiar surroundings or routine.
Fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:1-12
“‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.'”
1. Which of the Beatitudes has the most impact on you as they are read? Why?
2. Who or what experience has helped you to value what money can’t buy?
Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:13-16
“‘…your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.'”
1. When were you able to brighten someone’s day?
2. Who in your life might help you find courage, meaning, energy for living?
Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:17-37
“Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother…”
1. Remember an experience when keeping “just the letter of the law” was not enough for you.
2. Relate an experience when rules and regulations began as an obstacle but became an opportunity to grow in faith.
Seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 5:38-48
“‘When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one to him as well.'”
1. Recall a time when the attitude or activity of another person made you angry. Did the anger control your actions or your attitude? For how long? How did you break free?
2. Relate a time when you tried to “turn the other cheek” and it worked. Relate a time when it didn’t work. Relate a time when you were the wrongdoer and another person never quit loving you.
Eight Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 6:24-34
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
1. How do you serve God?
2. Remenber an expetience when you trusted completely.
Ninth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 7:21-27
“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock”
1. How do I actively seek to connect my faith into all the corners of my life?
2. What are the Words of God that burn in my heart? How do I act on them?
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LENT
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First Sunday of Lent Matthew 4:1-11
“Not on bread alone do we live but on every utterance that comes from the mouth of God.”
1. This week, how will you deal with the people or things that might tempt you to forget God’s love and mercy in your life?
2. What words of the Lord have helped you to celebrate your life?
Second Sunday of Lent Matthew 17:1-9
Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, how good it is for us to be here!'”
1. Recall a dazzling moment when you experienced the marvel of Jesus in others; within yourself.
2. In what ways do I take the time to appreciate the spectacle of God’s creation in nature?
Third Sunday of Lent John 4: 4-42
“‘Whoever drinks the water I give him will never be thirsty; no, the water I give shall become a fountain within him, leaping up to provide eternal life.'” Like the person who reaches into a well to draw water to quench a thirst, we have, each of us, at some time in our lives, needed to reach into our inner selves to draw the strength to deal with a particular situation.
1. How were you able to do this?
2. What positive feeling came from knowing that you had this inner resource?
Fourth Sunday of Lent John 9:1-41
“‘While I am in the world I am the light of the world.'”
1. At this time in your life, in what ways have you seen the light of Jesus; been afraid to see the light of Jesus; refused to see the light of Jesus?
2. What have you found helpful in dealing with people who belittle your faith?
Fifth Sunday of LentApril 10, 2011 John 11:1-45
When Lazarus came out of the tomb, Jesus said, “Untie him and let him go free.”
1. What are the areas in your life that keep you bound? In what ways do you need to be freed in order to live more fully?
2. What death of a relationship, emotional scars, practical concerns or past hurts now block your faith is Jesus?
Passion Sunday Matthew 26:14–27:66
“My God, my God why have you forsaken me?”Jesus suffered on many levels; physical, emotional, and spiritual.
Recall a time of your own suffering. Has it made you bitter or better? Why?
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EASTER
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Easter Sunday John 20:1-9
“The Lord has been taken from the tomb! We don’t know where they have put Him!”
1. Where are you looking for the Lord?
2. Are you finding the Lord where you are looking?
Second Sunday of Easter John 20:19-31
Christ risen from the dead is among us and says to us, “Blessed are you who have not seen and have believed.”
1. Share an experience when you heard news that was too good to be believed.
2. What steps have you taken to deepen your belief in Jesus?
Third Sunday of Easter Luke 24:13-35
Jesus appears to two disciples on the road to Emmaus. Just as the disciples did not recognize Christ until their hearts were opened to His presence, we also fail to recognize Christ in one another on our faith journey.
1. Take this time to call to mind someone who has comforted you, laughed with you, and listened to you along your journey, a person who has helped you to realize your specialness. Know that Christ has revealed Himself through this person.
2. Take the time to tell this person how they have helped you.
Fourth Sunday of Easter John 10:1-10
“The sheep hear the shepherd’s voice as he calls his own by name and leads them out,”
1. Recall a time when you became aware of God’s voice and responded.
2. How do you recognize the shepherd’s voice from among the many others that vie for your attention?
Fifth Sunday of Easter John 14:1-12
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.”
1. If Jesus is the way, do you feel you are on a bumpy dead-end street or a four-lane highway?
2. In troubled times what promises of God give you hope and courage?
Sixth Sunday of Easter John 14: 15-21
“The one who obeys the commandments he has from me is the one who loves me,”
1. What is the difference in your life between obedience out of obligation and obedience motivated by love?
2. When have you experienced the disciplines of daily family life: caring for others’ needs, rides, meals, being available to listen, as obeying Jesus’ commands?
Ascension Sunday Matthew 28: 16-20
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations…..And know that I am with you always, until the end of the world!”
1. What does being a disciple mean to you? In what ways are you living as a disciple?
2. Who has been a disciple
to you in your life?
Pentecost Sunday John 20: 19-23
“Receive the Holy Spirit.”
1. The gift of the Holy Spirit has been given to you through your Baptism. How will you use your gift to draw others to God this day, this week at home, work, school?
2. On the first Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came as a powerful wind and blew away the disciples’ fears. On this Pentecost what fear of yours may be turned over to the power of the Holy Spirit and transformed into positive action?
The Holy Trinity John 3:16-18“
Yes, God so loved the world…”Trinity Sunday praises God the Father for creating us, thanks God the Son for redeeming us, and honors God the Holy Spirit for living within us. We are co-sharers in God’s creation, redemption, and inspiration.
1. Recall the times when you created a new attitude towards an old problem, saved someone or something from disaster, or encouraged a “loser” to try again.
2. Walk on the beach or in the neighborhood and give praise and thanks for the wonders of God’s creation ever-present around you.
The Body and Blood of Christ John 6:51-58
“Those who feed on my flesh and drink my blood remain in me, and I in them.”The Eucharist is a symbol and sacrament of unity, Eucharist makes us one with one another and one with Christ.
1. Tell a story of a community or a family meal where you felt togetherness and acceptance. How does your experience compare/contrast to your understanding of and belief in the Eucharist?
2. What has the celebration of Eucharist meant to you in the various phases of your life?
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ORDINARY TIME
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Fourteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 11:25-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will refresh you.”We are a people of God and through us Jesus does His work.
1. In what ways have you used the opportunities God has given to you to do His work by ministering to your brothers and sisters?
2. How have you found peace and rest, knowing Christ walks with you?
Fifteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 13:1-23
“But as for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty and in another thirty.”
1. What worries have potential to choke your growth in Christ? How an you free your life from these “thorns”?
2. What “crop” does Jesus want believers to yield? What can you do to increase your “crop productivity”?
Sixteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 13:24-43
“The reign of God may be likened to one who sowed good seed… The reign of God is like a mustard seed… The reign of God is like yeast…”
1. Jesus named himself as the farmer who carefully protected the seedlings from being pulled up with the weeds. In this we see the good, forgiving, patient God who is always ready to grant another chance. How do you model the farmer to the people in your life?
2. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a mustard seed and yeast, both of which start out very small, grow wildly, and eventually make an impact on their environment. This is very similar to our own growth. In what ways are you yeast to your family, friends, the kingdom of God?
Seventeenth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 13:44-52
“When he found one really valuable pearl, he went back and put up for sale all that he had and bought it.”
1. Recall a time when you found something very valuable. How did the “find” affect you?
2. What are the pearls in your life and what are you willing to sacrifice in treasuring them?
Eighteenth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 14:13-21
“All those present ate their fill.”
1. Recall a time when you were ready to sit down and relax, and unexpected company arrived. How did you feel as you began the task of feeding and entertaining them? In what ways do you feel you nourished them?
2. In today’s Gospel Jesus meets in the crowd their need for healing. He touches their emptiness. What emptiness in you will you ask Jesus to touch and to heal?
Nineteenth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 14:22-33
“Jesus hastened to reassure them; “Get hold of yourselves! It is I.”
1. Reflect on the times the Lord has invited you “out of the boat.” Did you focus on Jesus or did you depend solely on yourself? What happened?
2. Can you list some of the things that you fear may take you away from Jesus? Now can you bring these fears and put them into the Lord’s hands?
Twentieth Sunday Ordinary Time Matthew 15:21-28
“The crowds were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the deformed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind able to see, and they glorified the God of Israel.”
1. Who are the people who don’t get your attention and often aren’t included?
2. Relate an experience when your persistence had positive results in a way you did not expect.
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Luke 1:39-56
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,…for he has looked upon his lowly servant.” Mary’s Magnificat is her joyful response in celebration of God’s activity in her life. What does your Magnificat sound like?
Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 16:13-20
Jesus asked, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!”
1. On a personal level, if Jesus were to ask, “Who do you say that I am?” ,how would you respond?
2. How do you feel about letting others know who Jesus is for you?
Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 16:21-27
“What profit would anyone show if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life?”
1. Reflect on your list of life’s priorities. Where does your relationship with Jesus fit in?
2. What does your relationship cost you? Can you tell Jesus today that you are willing to pay the cost?
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 18:15-20
”Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst.”
1. In what ways do you recognize the presence of Jesus and the power of prayer in your interactions with your family, friends, small church community?
2. Through praying together we invite Jesus into our relationships. Invite a loved one, who you are in conflict with, to pray with you for a resolution to your disputes. What could aid in your growth of understanding toward each other?
Twenty-fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 18:21-35
”Lord, when my brother or sister wrongs me, how often must I forgive?”
1. Mercy and forgiveness need to be received. How has the refusal of mercy damaged you, your family, your Christian community?
2. What is the connection between forgiveness, health, and wholeness?
Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Mark 9: 30-37 “Matthew 20:1-16
”Thus, the last shall be first and the first shall be last.”
1. In what ways have you experienced being honored or praised from an unexpected source or for an undeserved reason?
2. What are your thoughts – feelings when you hear Jesus say, “the last shall be first and the first last?”
Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 21:28-32
A man had two sons. He told them to work in his vineyard. One said he was going, but never went; the other said he wasn’t going, but repented and went to work.
1. How has someone else’s forgiveness of you affected your life?
2. Each Sunday we publicly proclaim our belief in Jesus and His forgiveness of us. Tomorrow, in your home or where you work, how will your proclamation become real?
Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 21:33-43
“Then he leased the vineyard out to tenant farmers and went on a journey. When vintage time arrived he dispatched his slaves to the tenants to obtain his share of the grapes.”
1. We are all called to tend the vineyard. We have had encouragement along the way. Who or what has been a help and support to your growth in faith? How has this been helpful to you?
2. How have I, as am member of my parish community, encouraged my parish to grow in faith? How has this been received?
Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 22:1-14
“Come to the feast.”
1. What is your initial response to an invitation?
2. Jesus envisions heaven as a banquet. What are your family meals like? Are they a sign of love and community? How could you make them that way?
Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 22:15-21
“Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, but give to God what is God’s.” Imagine taking a public stance against a government policy because of your faith. In what ways is being an American an obstacle to being Christian and how is it an aid?
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 22:34-40
“You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart, with your whole soul, and with all your mind.”“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
1. We all know people who love God fiercely but do not have a great affection towards people. We also know people who give of themselves generously to others but do not give God enough thought. Do you find yourself identifying with either of these groups? How can you better balance your love for God and your love for your neighbor?
2. In order to love both God and humanity we must first love and respect ourselves. Without recognizing our own worth we cannot accept love from others. Are you aware of the uniqueness with which God has gifted you? How are you special? Can you look in the mirror and truthfully say, “I love you!”?
Thirty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 23:1-12
“The greatest among you will be the one who serves the rest. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, but whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.”
In what ways do I witness the truth in my life, by being consistent in word and action?
1Solemnity of All Souls John 6:37-40
“…Everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day.”
1. Recall one personal experience that reinforced your belief in life after death.
2. Confronting death helps one to live life fully. How true a statement is this in your experience?
Thirty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time Matthew 25:1-13
“Keep your eyes open, for you know not the day or the hour.”Believers and unbelievers experience the same world of joy or suffering, life and death, but the believer aided by the light of Christ, perceives a different view of the world.
1. How has Christ been a light in the darkness for you?
2. How like the wise virgins in the Gospel parable are you in getting ready to meet the Lord? When do you find your own time for prayer and in what manner do you pray?
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time Matthew 25:14-30
“A man was going on a journey. He called in his servants and handed his funds over to them according to each one’s abilities.”
1. Your faith in the Lord is a gift from God to you. This week find some way to share this gift with someone. How will you do it?
2. Think of a person who has helped you on your journey with the Lord. What gifts do they use to help you get closer to God?
Christ The King Matthew 25: 31-46
‘The king will answer them, “I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my least brothers and sisters, you did it for me.”’
1. In your family, workplace, neighborhood, which relationship needs your hospitality and generosity? How will you provide it?
2. Why is it that the “least” of our brothers and sisters are treated as invisible by so many? What action can I take to change this injustice?
***TAKE TIME TO RE-ACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH THE SPIRITUAL AND CORPORAL WORKS OF MERCY. LOOK FOR THEM IN THE BULLETIN THIS WEEK.**
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The Spiritual Works of Mercy are: to convert sinners, instruct the ignorant, counsel the wayward, comfort the sorrowing, bear adversities patiently, forgive offenses, and pray for the living and the dead.
The Corporal Works of Mercy are:to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, give drink to the thirsty, shelter the homeless, tend the sick, visit those in prison, and bury the dead.