FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY
In the Gospel we do not find speeches on the family
but an event that is worth more than any word: God willed to
be born and to grow up in a human family. In this way, He
has consecrated the family as the first and ordinary way of
His encounter with humanity. This Gospel episode reveals
the most authentic and profound vocation of the family: that
of supporting each one of its members on the path of
discovery of God and of the plan he has ordained for them.
Mary and Joseph educated Jesus above all by their example:
From his parents, he learned all the beauty of the faith, of the
love of God and of his law, as well as the exigencies of
justice, which finds its fulfillment in love.
From them He learned first of all that one must do
God's will, and that the spiritual bond is worth more than
that of blood. The Holy Family is truly the "prototype" of
every Christian family that, united in the sacrament of
marriage and nourished by the Word and the Eucharist, is
called to carry out the marvelous vocation and mission of
being a living cell not only of society but of the Church, sign
and instrument of unity for the whole human race.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Family Bible Study - Feast of The Holy Family
Gospel Passage
Matt. 2:13 Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a
dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain
there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14
Then Joseph got up, took the child and his mother by night, and went to Egypt, 15
and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been
spoken by the Lord through the prophet, “Out of Egypt I have called my son.” 19
When Herod died, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared in a dream to Joseph in
Egypt and said, 20 “Get up, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of
Israel, for those who were seeking the child’s life are dead.” 21 Then Joseph got up,
took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard
that Archelaus was ruling over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go
there. And after being warned in a dream, he went away to the district of Galilee. 23
There he made his home in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken
through the prophets might be fulfilled, “He will be called a Nazorean.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Why did Jesus, Mary and Joseph need to go to Egypt? Why was Herod trying to kill Jesus?
2. St. Joseph always did what God, through his angels, asked him to do. Do
you do what God wants, following his commandments and obeying the
parents he gave you?
3. This weekend is the feast of the Holy Family. Who is the Holy Family?
Every family is called to be holy. What could you do to make your family more holy, more like the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Matt. 2:13 Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a
dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain
there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14
Then Joseph got up, took the child and his mother by night, and went to Egypt, 15
and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been
spoken by the Lord through the prophet, “Out of Egypt I have called my son.” 19
When Herod died, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared in a dream to Joseph in
Egypt and said, 20 “Get up, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of
Israel, for those who were seeking the child’s life are dead.” 21 Then Joseph got up,
took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard
that Archelaus was ruling over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go
there. And after being warned in a dream, he went away to the district of Galilee. 23
There he made his home in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken
through the prophets might be fulfilled, “He will be called a Nazorean.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Why did Jesus, Mary and Joseph need to go to Egypt? Why was Herod trying to kill Jesus?
2. St. Joseph always did what God, through his angels, asked him to do. Do
you do what God wants, following his commandments and obeying the
parents he gave you?
3. This weekend is the feast of the Holy Family. Who is the Holy Family?
Every family is called to be holy. What could you do to make your family more holy, more like the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Family Bible Study - Christmas Day!
Gospel Passage
Luke 2:1 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world
should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius
was governor of Syria. 3 All went to their own towns to be registered. 4 Joseph also
went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called
Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He
went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a
child. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7 And she
gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a
manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 8 In that region there were
shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an
angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them,
and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see — I
am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day
in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for
you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And
suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God
and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among
those whom he favors!”
Questions
1. On Christmas day, what gift are you planning to give Jesus for his birthday?
2. When you think about Jesus and your Catholic faith, are you very happy
like the angels? Do you tell your friends and others how happy Jesus makes
you?
3. We celebrate on Christmas that God the Son became a little baby, just like
you once were. When you sing Christmas songs, do you think about Jesus?
What are your favorite songs about Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 2:1 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world
should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius
was governor of Syria. 3 All went to their own towns to be registered. 4 Joseph also
went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called
Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He
went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a
child. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7 And she
gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a
manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 8 In that region there were
shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an
angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them,
and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see — I
am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day
in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for
you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And
suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God
and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among
those whom he favors!”
Questions
1. On Christmas day, what gift are you planning to give Jesus for his birthday?
2. When you think about Jesus and your Catholic faith, are you very happy
like the angels? Do you tell your friends and others how happy Jesus makes
you?
3. We celebrate on Christmas that God the Son became a little baby, just like
you once were. When you sing Christmas songs, do you think about Jesus?
What are your favorite songs about Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Family Bible Study - 4th Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Matt. 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but
before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the
Holy Spirit. 19 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and
unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her
quietly. 20 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of
the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of
David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child
conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son,
and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from
their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken
by the Lord through the prophet: 23 “Look, the virgin shall
conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,”
which means, “God is with us.” 24 When Joseph awoke from
sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her
as his wife.
Questions for discussion -
1. What does the name “Jesus” mean? (Hint: the Angel tells St. Joseph what it
means in verse 21.)
2. We also call Jesus “Emmanuel.” What does this mean? How is this true in
your life? Is God with you, too?
3. What was miraculous about the birth of Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Matt. 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but
before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the
Holy Spirit. 19 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and
unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her
quietly. 20 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of
the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of
David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child
conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son,
and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from
their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken
by the Lord through the prophet: 23 “Look, the virgin shall
conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,”
which means, “God is with us.” 24 When Joseph awoke from
sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her
as his wife.
Questions for discussion -
1. What does the name “Jesus” mean? (Hint: the Angel tells St. Joseph what it
means in verse 21.)
2. We also call Jesus “Emmanuel.” What does this mean? How is this true in
your life? Is God with you, too?
3. What was miraculous about the birth of Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Fourth Sunday of Advent
FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
O Root of Jesse, who stands for an ensign of the
people, before whom kings shall keep silence and unto
whom the Gentiles shall make supplication: Come to deliver
us, and tarry not.
The flower which springs up from the root of Jesse
is another figure of Christ. Isaiah prophesied that the Savior
would be born from the root of Jesse, that He would sit upon
the throne of David, and in Christ this prophecy is fulfilled.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
O Root of Jesse, who stands for an ensign of the
people, before whom kings shall keep silence and unto
whom the Gentiles shall make supplication: Come to deliver
us, and tarry not.
The flower which springs up from the root of Jesse
is another figure of Christ. Isaiah prophesied that the Savior
would be born from the root of Jesse, that He would sit upon
the throne of David, and in Christ this prophecy is fulfilled.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Family Bible Study - Third Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Matt. 11:2 Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent
word by his disciples 3 and said to him, "Are you he who is to come, or shall we look
for another?" 4 And Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see:
5 the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf
hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. 6
And blessed is he who takes no offense at me." 7 As they went away, Jesus began to
speak to the crowds concerning John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to
behold? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 Why then did you go out? To see a man
clothed in soft raiment? Behold, those who wear soft raiment are in kings' houses. 9
Why then did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10 This is he of whom it is written, `Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, who
shall prepare thy way before thee.' 11 Truly, I say to you, among those born of
women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the
kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Questions for discussion:
1. Jesus says, “Blessed is he who takes no offense at me,” which means that he
is happy when people are not embarrassed to talk about him. Do you ever feel
silly or ashamed to tell people how good Jesus is?
2. Jesus listed a lot of miracles that he did. Why do you think he did this?
(Hint: see in your Bible, Luke 4:16-21). Was he telling John, do you think, that
he was the Messiah?
3. Why do you think Jesus said that the least in God’s kingdom is greater even
than St. John the Baptist? (Hint: see in your Bible, John 3:5-6).
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Matt. 11:2 Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent
word by his disciples 3 and said to him, "Are you he who is to come, or shall we look
for another?" 4 And Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see:
5 the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf
hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. 6
And blessed is he who takes no offense at me." 7 As they went away, Jesus began to
speak to the crowds concerning John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to
behold? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 Why then did you go out? To see a man
clothed in soft raiment? Behold, those who wear soft raiment are in kings' houses. 9
Why then did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10 This is he of whom it is written, `Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, who
shall prepare thy way before thee.' 11 Truly, I say to you, among those born of
women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the
kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Questions for discussion:
1. Jesus says, “Blessed is he who takes no offense at me,” which means that he
is happy when people are not embarrassed to talk about him. Do you ever feel
silly or ashamed to tell people how good Jesus is?
2. Jesus listed a lot of miracles that he did. Why do you think he did this?
(Hint: see in your Bible, Luke 4:16-21). Was he telling John, do you think, that
he was the Messiah?
3. Why do you think Jesus said that the least in God’s kingdom is greater even
than St. John the Baptist? (Hint: see in your Bible, John 3:5-6).
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Family Bible Study - Second Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Matt. 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea,
2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." 3 For this is he who was spoken of
by the prophet Isaiah when he said, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." 4 Now John wore a garment
of camel's hair, and a leather girdle around his waist; and his food was locusts and
wild honey. 5 Then went out to him Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about
the Jordan, 6 and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their
sins. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sad'ducees coming for baptism,
he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to
come? 8 Bear fruit that befits repentance, 9 and do not presume to say to
yourselves, `We have Abraham as our father'; for I tell you, God is able from these
stones to raise up children to Abraham. 10 Even now the axe is laid to the root of the
trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into
the fire. 11 "I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me
is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry; he will baptize you with
the Holy Spirit and with fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear
his threshing floor and gather his wheat into the granary, but the chaff he will burn
with unquenchable fire."
Questions for discussion -
1. John the Baptist tells us to “prepare the way of the Lord.” What are you
doing this Advent to get ready to receive Jesus at Christmas?
2. John also tells us that we have to “repent, for the kingdom of God is at
hand.” How do you repent and say you’re sorry to God? What sacrament did Jesus give us to forgive us?
3. John the Baptist says that someone mightier than he will come after him to
baptize “with the Holy Spirit and with fire.” Who and what is he talking
about?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Second Sunday of Advent
SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
The prophets, especially Isaiah, spoke of the coming of
the Messiah. This Messiah would be anointed with the Spirit;
the sevenfold gifts of the Spirit would be upon Him. He would
bring about justice. He would touch hearts so that the fiercest
of enemies would become friends, as the image of the animals
being together.
The last and the greatest prophet, John the Baptist,
reminded his followers that the Messiah was coming soon and
that they should repent for their sins.
We no longer have to wait for the Messiah for He has
already come. Now it seems that the Messiah is waiting for us
to come to Him that He may anoint us with His Spirit and that
He may give us His daily forgiveness and that He would give
all the power of the Spirit to be friends of one another.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
The prophets, especially Isaiah, spoke of the coming of
the Messiah. This Messiah would be anointed with the Spirit;
the sevenfold gifts of the Spirit would be upon Him. He would
bring about justice. He would touch hearts so that the fiercest
of enemies would become friends, as the image of the animals
being together.
The last and the greatest prophet, John the Baptist,
reminded his followers that the Messiah was coming soon and
that they should repent for their sins.
We no longer have to wait for the Messiah for He has
already come. Now it seems that the Messiah is waiting for us
to come to Him that He may anoint us with His Spirit and that
He may give us His daily forgiveness and that He would give
all the power of the Spirit to be friends of one another.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Family Bible Study - 1st Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Matt. 24:37 As were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of
man. 38 For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking,
marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark,
39 and they did not know until the flood came and swept them all away, so
will be the coming of the Son of man. 40 Then two men will be in the field;
one is taken and one is left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill; one
is taken and one is left. 42 Watch therefore, for you do not know on what
day your Lord is coming. 43 But know this, that if the householder had
known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have
watched and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 Therefore you
also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not
expect.
Questions for discussion -
1. What happened in the days of Noah? Were many people caught off guard?
What should we learn from this?
2. Jesus says we do not know the hour that God will come and that we should be
ready. How can we get ready to meet Him?
3. Jesus says that we should “watch.” For whom should we watch this Advent?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Christmas Novena of Saint Andrew
HAIL AND BLESSED be the hour and moment in which the SON OF GOD was born of the MOST PURE VIRGIN MARY at midnight, in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold. In that hour, vouchsafe, O my GOD, to hear my prayers and grant my desires, through the merits of our SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST AND HIS BLESSED MOTHER.
Amen.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Family Bible Study - Christ the King
Gospel Passage
Luke 23:35 And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at
him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of
God, his chosen one!” 36 The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and
offering him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save
yourself!” 38 There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of
the Jews.” 39 One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding
him and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” 40 But
the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under
the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed have been
condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this
man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when
you come into your kingdom.” 43 He replied, “Truly I tell you, today you
will be with me in Paradise.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Christ is our King, which means He must reign in every part of our lives. Do you treat Jesus like a King? Do you give up some of your time for Him? Do you use your
talents to help others for Him?
2. Christ did have the power, as King and Lord of the Universe, to come
down from the Cross and save himself. Why do you think He refused save
himself?
3. What was the Good Thief asking for when he said, “Jesus, remember me
when you come into your kingdom?” Do you ask Jesus for the same thing?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 23:35 And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at
him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of
God, his chosen one!” 36 The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and
offering him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save
yourself!” 38 There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of
the Jews.” 39 One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding
him and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” 40 But
the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under
the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed have been
condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this
man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when
you come into your kingdom.” 43 He replied, “Truly I tell you, today you
will be with me in Paradise.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Christ is our King, which means He must reign in every part of our lives. Do you treat Jesus like a King? Do you give up some of your time for Him? Do you use your
talents to help others for Him?
2. Christ did have the power, as King and Lord of the Universe, to come
down from the Cross and save himself. Why do you think He refused save
himself?
3. What was the Good Thief asking for when he said, “Jesus, remember me
when you come into your kingdom?” Do you ask Jesus for the same thing?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Friday, November 12, 2010
Family Bible Study - 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 21:5 And as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones
and offerings, he said, 6 "As for these things which you see, the days will come
when there shall not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown
down." 7 And they asked him, "Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign
when this is about to take place?" 8 And he said, "Take heed that you are not led
astray; for many will come in my name, saying, `I am he!' and, `The time is at hand!'
Do not go after them. 9 And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified;
for this must first take place, but the end will not be at once." 10 Then he said to
them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; 11 there will
be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences; and there will be
terrors and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all this they will lay their hands
on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you
will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake. 13 This will be a
time for you to bear testimony. 14 Settle it therefore in your minds, not to meditate
beforehand how to answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none
of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. 16 You will be delivered
up even by parents and brothers and kinsmen and friends, and some of you they will
put to death; 17 you will be hated by all for my name's sake. 18 But not a hair of
your head will perish. 19 By your endurance you will gain your lives.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says that his followers will suffer just as he, who was all good, had to
suffer. Have you ever suffered for being faithful to Jesus? How?
2. Jesus mentions a lot of disasters in today’s Gospel. They are all meant to be
signs of what? (Hint: It has something to do with what we say in the Creed
right before we profess our belief in the Holy Spirit)
3. Jesus says that when we’re asked to give witness of our faith in him, he will
fill us with His Wisdom. Have you ever been put on the spot and had to
defend your faith?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 21:5 And as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones
and offerings, he said, 6 "As for these things which you see, the days will come
when there shall not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown
down." 7 And they asked him, "Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign
when this is about to take place?" 8 And he said, "Take heed that you are not led
astray; for many will come in my name, saying, `I am he!' and, `The time is at hand!'
Do not go after them. 9 And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified;
for this must first take place, but the end will not be at once." 10 Then he said to
them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; 11 there will
be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences; and there will be
terrors and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all this they will lay their hands
on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you
will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake. 13 This will be a
time for you to bear testimony. 14 Settle it therefore in your minds, not to meditate
beforehand how to answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none
of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. 16 You will be delivered
up even by parents and brothers and kinsmen and friends, and some of you they will
put to death; 17 you will be hated by all for my name's sake. 18 But not a hair of
your head will perish. 19 By your endurance you will gain your lives.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says that his followers will suffer just as he, who was all good, had to
suffer. Have you ever suffered for being faithful to Jesus? How?
2. Jesus mentions a lot of disasters in today’s Gospel. They are all meant to be
signs of what? (Hint: It has something to do with what we say in the Creed
right before we profess our belief in the Holy Spirit)
3. Jesus says that when we’re asked to give witness of our faith in him, he will
fill us with His Wisdom. Have you ever been put on the spot and had to
defend your faith?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
When is the end of the world coming? Sacred Scripture
tells us that no one knows when this is going to happen. St. Paul
wrote to the Thessalonians and told them to keep working and not
just wait for the second coming of the Lord Jesus. The important
thing is not when Jesus will come, but that we are ready when He
does come. “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”
Continue in your faith journey and then there is no fear.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
When is the end of the world coming? Sacred Scripture
tells us that no one knows when this is going to happen. St. Paul
wrote to the Thessalonians and told them to keep working and not
just wait for the second coming of the Lord Jesus. The important
thing is not when Jesus will come, but that we are ready when He
does come. “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”
Continue in your faith journey and then there is no fear.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Family Bible Study - 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 20:27 There came to him some Sadducees, those who say that there is no
resurrection, 28 and they asked him a question, saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us
that if a man's brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man must take the wife
and raise up children for his brother. 29 Now there were seven brothers; the first
took a wife, and died without children; 30 and the second 31 and the third took her,
and likewise all seven left no children and died. 32 Afterward the woman also died.
33 In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had
her as wife." 34 And Jesus said to them, "The sons of this age marry and are given in
marriage; 35 but those who are accounted worthy to attain to that age and to the
resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, 36 for they
cannot die any more, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being
sons of the resurrection. 37 But that the dead are raised, even Moses showed, in the
passage about the bush, where he calls the Lord the God of Abraham and the God of
Isaac and the God of Jacob. 38 Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living; for
all live to him."
Questions for discussion:
1. The Sadducees were a group of people who said no one can come back from
being dead, that there was no resurrection of the body. How do
we know that they’re wrong?
2. Jesus calls the Lord the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of
Jacob. What other names could you add? Would he be the God of your
parents? Of your grandparents? Who else?
3. Jesus says there will be no more weddings in heaven. Since he is God, he
knows. Marriage is a sacrament for this world, to help us, like all the
sacraments, to get to heaven. But will there still be love in heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 20:27 There came to him some Sadducees, those who say that there is no
resurrection, 28 and they asked him a question, saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us
that if a man's brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man must take the wife
and raise up children for his brother. 29 Now there were seven brothers; the first
took a wife, and died without children; 30 and the second 31 and the third took her,
and likewise all seven left no children and died. 32 Afterward the woman also died.
33 In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had
her as wife." 34 And Jesus said to them, "The sons of this age marry and are given in
marriage; 35 but those who are accounted worthy to attain to that age and to the
resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, 36 for they
cannot die any more, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being
sons of the resurrection. 37 But that the dead are raised, even Moses showed, in the
passage about the bush, where he calls the Lord the God of Abraham and the God of
Isaac and the God of Jacob. 38 Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living; for
all live to him."
Questions for discussion:
1. The Sadducees were a group of people who said no one can come back from
being dead, that there was no resurrection of the body. How do
we know that they’re wrong?
2. Jesus calls the Lord the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of
Jacob. What other names could you add? Would he be the God of your
parents? Of your grandparents? Who else?
3. Jesus says there will be no more weddings in heaven. Since he is God, he
knows. Marriage is a sacrament for this world, to help us, like all the
sacraments, to get to heaven. But will there still be love in heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Family Bible Study - 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 19:1 He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 And there was a
man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. 3 And he
sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because
he was small of stature. 4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a
sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus
came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, make haste and
come down; for I must stay at your house today." 6 So he made haste and
came down, and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it they all
murmured, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." 8 And
Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I
give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it
fourfold." 9 And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house,
since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man came to seek and to
save the lost."
Questions for discussion -
1. Zacchaeus could not see Jesus “on account of the crowd.” Do others ever get
in your way of seeing Jesus? or make it harder to see Jesus?
2. Zacchaeus was happy to let Jesus come into his home. We can let Jesus into
our body and soul by taking Holy Communion. Are you joyful and happy when you receive Jesus into your body and soul in Holy
Communion? What do you do to get ready for Him? What do you do to prepare yourself to welcome him?
3. Jesus says he came to “seek and to save the lost.” About whom was he
speaking? Can you think of anyone who is “lost” because he or she does not know about Jesus? How can we help them to find Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 19:1 He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 And there was a
man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. 3 And he
sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because
he was small of stature. 4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a
sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus
came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, make haste and
come down; for I must stay at your house today." 6 So he made haste and
came down, and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it they all
murmured, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." 8 And
Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I
give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it
fourfold." 9 And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house,
since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man came to seek and to
save the lost."
Questions for discussion -
1. Zacchaeus could not see Jesus “on account of the crowd.” Do others ever get
in your way of seeing Jesus? or make it harder to see Jesus?
2. Zacchaeus was happy to let Jesus come into his home. We can let Jesus into
our body and soul by taking Holy Communion. Are you joyful and happy when you receive Jesus into your body and soul in Holy
Communion? What do you do to get ready for Him? What do you do to prepare yourself to welcome him?
3. Jesus says he came to “seek and to save the lost.” About whom was he
speaking? Can you think of anyone who is “lost” because he or she does not know about Jesus? How can we help them to find Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
The greatest gift that we can give anyone is the gift of Jesus. When Zacchaeus experienced Jesus, his life changed and he made great restitution. When we really know the Lord, our lives are different because they reflect Jesus. Pray that each of us will really know the Lord and that we can share Jesus with others. When we are converted to the person of Jesus, we will want to learn more about Him and we will want to worship Him constantly. Time will not be an issue.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, October 22, 2010
Family Bible Study - 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 18:9 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that
they were righteous and despised others: 10 "Two men went up into the
temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee
stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank thee that I am not like
other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12
I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' 13 But the tax collector,
standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his
breast, saying, `God, be merciful to me a sinner!' 14 I tell you, this man went
down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts
himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus praises the humble tax collector who begs God for mercy for all his
sins. How often do you ask God to be merciful to you?
2. The Pharisee (a teacher in Judaism) seemed to be a good man, who gave up
food, gave 10% of his money to the Church and prayed a lot. Why do you think
Jesus said he went away without getting his prayer heard?
3. How do you pray? Do you pray more like the humble tax collector or more
like the proud Pharisee? Be honest.
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 18:9 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that
they were righteous and despised others: 10 "Two men went up into the
temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee
stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank thee that I am not like
other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12
I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' 13 But the tax collector,
standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his
breast, saying, `God, be merciful to me a sinner!' 14 I tell you, this man went
down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts
himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus praises the humble tax collector who begs God for mercy for all his
sins. How often do you ask God to be merciful to you?
2. The Pharisee (a teacher in Judaism) seemed to be a good man, who gave up
food, gave 10% of his money to the Church and prayed a lot. Why do you think
Jesus said he went away without getting his prayer heard?
3. How do you pray? Do you pray more like the humble tax collector or more
like the proud Pharisee? Be honest.
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one
who humbles himself will be exalted.” The parable of the
Pharisee and the tax collector is very familiar to most people.
The Pharisee did not do anything wrong, as he boasted, but he
thought that he was good on his own power. We do not know
whether or not the tax collector did anything wrong, but he
recognized that he needed God in his life. Remember that we
are poor on our own, but rich with God’s goodness and grace.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one
who humbles himself will be exalted.” The parable of the
Pharisee and the tax collector is very familiar to most people.
The Pharisee did not do anything wrong, as he boasted, but he
thought that he was good on his own power. We do not know
whether or not the tax collector did anything wrong, but he
recognized that he needed God in his life. Remember that we
are poor on our own, but rich with God’s goodness and grace.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, October 15, 2010
Family Bible Study - 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 18:1 And he told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always
to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, "In a certain city there was a judge
who neither feared God nor regarded man; 3 and there was a widow in that
city who kept coming to him and saying, `Vindicate me against my
adversary.' 4 For a while he refused; but afterward he said to himself,
`Though I neither fear God nor regard man, 5 yet because this widow
bothers me, I will vindicate her, or she will wear me out by her continual
coming.'" 6 And the Lord said, "Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7
And will not God vindicate his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he
delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will vindicate them speedily.
Nevertheless, when the Son of man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
Questions for discussion -
1. The woman in the story never gave up asking for help. Jesus says to pray and
never give up. Would Jesus think you are doing a good job praying, or do you
give up when you pray?
2. Jesus wonders whether, when he returns, he will find faith on earth. What
does this mean, “when he returns”? When is he coming again? What will he do
then?
3. Jesus wonders whether he will find faith on earth. What do you think you
can do at least to ensure that he will find faith in you?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 18:1 And he told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always
to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, "In a certain city there was a judge
who neither feared God nor regarded man; 3 and there was a widow in that
city who kept coming to him and saying, `Vindicate me against my
adversary.' 4 For a while he refused; but afterward he said to himself,
`Though I neither fear God nor regard man, 5 yet because this widow
bothers me, I will vindicate her, or she will wear me out by her continual
coming.'" 6 And the Lord said, "Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7
And will not God vindicate his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he
delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will vindicate them speedily.
Nevertheless, when the Son of man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
Questions for discussion -
1. The woman in the story never gave up asking for help. Jesus says to pray and
never give up. Would Jesus think you are doing a good job praying, or do you
give up when you pray?
2. Jesus wonders whether, when he returns, he will find faith on earth. What
does this mean, “when he returns”? When is he coming again? What will he do
then?
3. Jesus wonders whether he will find faith on earth. What do you think you
can do at least to ensure that he will find faith in you?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Be persistent in prayer. Pray behind the scenes. Do
not give up. Your prayer is heard. These are encouraging
words given us by our God today. As long as Moses’ arms
were raised in prayer, his people were victorious. Jesus tells
His disciples and us that we should pray always without
growing weary. We can do a lot of good for others and
ourselves when we continue to raise our hearts in prayer.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Be persistent in prayer. Pray behind the scenes. Do
not give up. Your prayer is heard. These are encouraging
words given us by our God today. As long as Moses’ arms
were raised in prayer, his people were victorious. Jesus tells
His disciples and us that we should pray always without
growing weary. We can do a lot of good for others and
ourselves when we continue to raise our hearts in prayer.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
God's call to salvation is universal. He has created everyone for Himself and desires that everyone shares eternal happiness with Him. In the history of salvation, some had false notions about who was to be saved. The readings today show that God has called everyone, no matter what nationality. Naaman was not any Israelite, but was still cured by Elisha the prophet. The one who returned to give thanks was a Samaritan. The Lord reminds us that He wants everyone to accept His eternal healing, which is Heaven.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 17:11 On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Sama'ria
and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who
stood at a distance 13 and lifted up their voices and said, "Jesus, Master,
have mercy on us." 14 When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show
yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed. 15 Then
one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God
with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks.
Now he was a Samaritan. 17 Then said Jesus, "Were not ten cleansed?
Where are the nine? 18 Was no one found to return and give praise to God
except this foreigner?" 19 And he said to him, "Rise and go your way; your
faith has made you well."
Questions for discussion -
1. In this story, Jesus did a miracle! He made ugly terrible skin sores disappear
on ten sick people. Only one came back to say thank you. When God or anyone
does something for you, do you always return
to say thanks?
2. Jesus loved the sick people that other people were mean to. How do you act
toward people with problems that no one else seems to love and care for?
3. Why do you think the other nine sick people never returned to say thanks for
taking the sores away? Why do you think some people never say thank you and are ungrateful when others do good things for them?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 17:11 On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Sama'ria
and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who
stood at a distance 13 and lifted up their voices and said, "Jesus, Master,
have mercy on us." 14 When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show
yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed. 15 Then
one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God
with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks.
Now he was a Samaritan. 17 Then said Jesus, "Were not ten cleansed?
Where are the nine? 18 Was no one found to return and give praise to God
except this foreigner?" 19 And he said to him, "Rise and go your way; your
faith has made you well."
Questions for discussion -
1. In this story, Jesus did a miracle! He made ugly terrible skin sores disappear
on ten sick people. Only one came back to say thank you. When God or anyone
does something for you, do you always return
to say thanks?
2. Jesus loved the sick people that other people were mean to. How do you act
toward people with problems that no one else seems to love and care for?
3. Why do you think the other nine sick people never returned to say thanks for
taking the sores away? Why do you think some people never say thank you and are ungrateful when others do good things for them?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Friday, October 1, 2010
Family Bible Study - 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 17:5 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" 6 And the
Lord said, "If you had faith the size of a grain of mustard seed, you could say
to this sycamore tree, `Be rooted up, and be planted in the sea,' and it would
obey you. 7 "Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping
sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit
down at table'? 8 Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and
gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat
and drink'? 9 Does he thank the servant because he did what was
commanded? 10 So you also, when you have done all that is commanded
you, say, `We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our
duty.'"
Questions for discussion -
1. The apostles asked the Lord to increase their faith. What ways can you use to
grow in faith?
2. A mustard seed is very small. If you have faith even that small size, Jesus
says, God will allow you to do big things for Him. Do you pray knowing
that God wants to hear your prayers?
3. Jesus says to the apostles that we should not be proud about faith, but
grateful to him, because it is a gift. Prayer is not just a privilege but a duty.
What duties, what responsibilities, do you have toward God? What else
does God expect you to do?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 17:5 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" 6 And the
Lord said, "If you had faith the size of a grain of mustard seed, you could say
to this sycamore tree, `Be rooted up, and be planted in the sea,' and it would
obey you. 7 "Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping
sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit
down at table'? 8 Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and
gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat
and drink'? 9 Does he thank the servant because he did what was
commanded? 10 So you also, when you have done all that is commanded
you, say, `We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our
duty.'"
Questions for discussion -
1. The apostles asked the Lord to increase their faith. What ways can you use to
grow in faith?
2. A mustard seed is very small. If you have faith even that small size, Jesus
says, God will allow you to do big things for Him. Do you pray knowing
that God wants to hear your prayers?
3. Jesus says to the apostles that we should not be proud about faith, but
grateful to him, because it is a gift. Prayer is not just a privilege but a duty.
What duties, what responsibilities, do you have toward God? What else
does God expect you to do?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
A question that perhaps at times we ask ourselves is:
“Don’t I have faith?” “I have asked for a particular favor and I
have not received it! God’s word tells me that, if I have faith
the size of a mustard seed, everything would be granted to me.
God doesn’t seem to answer my prayer.” The Lord does indeed
hear our prayer and grants it according to the plan that will
bring eternal happiness. It sometimes takes time and we need
to be patient.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
A question that perhaps at times we ask ourselves is:
“Don’t I have faith?” “I have asked for a particular favor and I
have not received it! God’s word tells me that, if I have faith
the size of a mustard seed, everything would be granted to me.
God doesn’t seem to answer my prayer.” The Lord does indeed
hear our prayer and grants it according to the plan that will
bring eternal happiness. It sometimes takes time and we need
to be patient.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Family Bible Study - 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 16:19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and
who feasted sumptuously every day. 20 And at his gate lay a poor man named
Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from
the rich man’s table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. 22 The poor man
died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died
and was buried. 23 In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw
Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. 24 He called out, ‘Father Abraham,
have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my
tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember
that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner
evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. 26 Besides all this,
between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to
pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.’ 27 He
said, ‘Then, father, I beg you to send him to my father’s house — 28 for I have five
brothers — that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of
torment.’ 29 Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; they should
listen to them.’ 30 He said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from
the dead, they will repent.’ 31 He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the
prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Questions for discussion -
1. Why was the Rich Man sent to hell? Was it because he did something evil to
the poor man, or because, seeing him in need, he didn’t do anything?
2. What does this parable tell you about the need to help others?
3. The rich man prayed that someone from the dead go to warn his brothers.
Abraham (who is speaking for God) says that his brothers have Moses and the
prophets. But we have Jesus, who has come back from the dead. What does
that mean in terms of our behavior toward others in need and the eternal
consequences that result from our choices?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 16:19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and
who feasted sumptuously every day. 20 And at his gate lay a poor man named
Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from
the rich man’s table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. 22 The poor man
died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died
and was buried. 23 In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw
Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. 24 He called out, ‘Father Abraham,
have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my
tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember
that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner
evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. 26 Besides all this,
between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to
pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.’ 27 He
said, ‘Then, father, I beg you to send him to my father’s house — 28 for I have five
brothers — that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of
torment.’ 29 Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; they should
listen to them.’ 30 He said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from
the dead, they will repent.’ 31 He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the
prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Questions for discussion -
1. Why was the Rich Man sent to hell? Was it because he did something evil to
the poor man, or because, seeing him in need, he didn’t do anything?
2. What does this parable tell you about the need to help others?
3. The rich man prayed that someone from the dead go to warn his brothers.
Abraham (who is speaking for God) says that his brothers have Moses and the
prophets. But we have Jesus, who has come back from the dead. What does
that mean in terms of our behavior toward others in need and the eternal
consequences that result from our choices?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus reminds us today about the needs of others and not
being blind to our care for others. There are many ways that we
can be of assistance to others; we just have to look around and see
how we can help. The rich man did not advert to the needs of the
poor man; he overlooked how he could help even in a small way.
We are reminded of Jesus telling us: “Whatever you do to the least
of my brothers and sisters, you do to Me.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus reminds us today about the needs of others and not
being blind to our care for others. There are many ways that we
can be of assistance to others; we just have to look around and see
how we can help. The rich man did not advert to the needs of the
poor man; he overlooked how he could help even in a small way.
We are reminded of Jesus telling us: “Whatever you do to the least
of my brothers and sisters, you do to Me.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jesus praised the ingenuity of the steward for making preparations for the future. The steward was probably giving his commission to the debtors so they would be kind to him later on; he was sacrificing for the future. Jesus is reminding us to make preparations for the future life so that we might have the reward in the next life. Work for what will be our reward after our work here on earth is completed.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus praised the ingenuity of the steward for making preparations for the future. The steward was probably giving his commission to the debtors so they would be kind to him later on; he was sacrificing for the future. Jesus is reminding us to make preparations for the future life so that we might have the reward in the next life. Work for what will be our reward after our work here on earth is completed.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 16:1 Then Jesus said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and
charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. 2 So he summoned
him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Give me an accounting of your
management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.’ 3 Then the manager said to
himself, ‘What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not
strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I have decided what to do so that, when I am
dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.’ 5 So, summoning his
master’s debtors one by one, he asked the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He
answered, ‘A hundred jugs of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, sit down quickly, and
make it fifty.’ 7 Then he asked another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘A hundred
containers of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill and make it eighty.’ 8 And his master
commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age
are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. 9 And I
tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they
may welcome you into the eternal homes. 10 “Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also
in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. 11 If then you have
not been faithful with the dishonest wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? 12 And if
you have not been faithful with what belongs to another, who will give you what is your own?
13 No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be
devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”
Questions for discussion
1. The rich man praises his servant not because of his dishonesty but because of his
resourcefulness, that he knew how to achieve a goal. Jesus wants us to achieve the goal
of holiness in this life, to bring others to him, and to get to heaven. How resourceful are
you toward achieving this goal?
2. Jesus says, “whoever is faithful in little things is faithful in big things.” What are some ways you can be more faithful? to coming to Mass? To praying
on your own each day?
3. Jesus says we cannot serve both God and money. What can you do to make sure you
serve God and not money?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 16:1 Then Jesus said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and
charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. 2 So he summoned
him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Give me an accounting of your
management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.’ 3 Then the manager said to
himself, ‘What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not
strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I have decided what to do so that, when I am
dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.’ 5 So, summoning his
master’s debtors one by one, he asked the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He
answered, ‘A hundred jugs of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, sit down quickly, and
make it fifty.’ 7 Then he asked another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘A hundred
containers of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill and make it eighty.’ 8 And his master
commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age
are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. 9 And I
tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they
may welcome you into the eternal homes. 10 “Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also
in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. 11 If then you have
not been faithful with the dishonest wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? 12 And if
you have not been faithful with what belongs to another, who will give you what is your own?
13 No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be
devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”
Questions for discussion
1. The rich man praises his servant not because of his dishonesty but because of his
resourcefulness, that he knew how to achieve a goal. Jesus wants us to achieve the goal
of holiness in this life, to bring others to him, and to get to heaven. How resourceful are
you toward achieving this goal?
2. Jesus says, “whoever is faithful in little things is faithful in big things.” What are some ways you can be more faithful? to coming to Mass? To praying
on your own each day?
3. Jesus says we cannot serve both God and money. What can you do to make sure you
serve God and not money?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
The Lord told many parables about His readiness to
forgive and how all heaven rejoices when someone comes back
to receive the forgiveness of God. It is like the lost sheep that
was carried back; it is like the woman who found a special lost
coin; it is like a son who returned to his father. The invitation
to come back is always there. God is like the hound of heaven
that goes out in search for all of us.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
The Lord told many parables about His readiness to
forgive and how all heaven rejoices when someone comes back
to receive the forgiveness of God. It is like the lost sheep that
was carried back; it is like the woman who found a special lost
coin; it is like a son who returned to his father. The invitation
to come back is always there. God is like the hound of heaven
that goes out in search for all of us.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 15:1 Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. 2 And the Pharisees and the scribes were
grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 So he told them this parable: 4 “Which one of
you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is
lost until he finds it? 5 When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. 6 And when he comes home, he calls
together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell
you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no
repentance. 8 “Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and
search carefully until she finds it? 9 When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with
me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ 10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one
sinner who repents.” 11 Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father,
‘Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 A few days later
the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living.
14 When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he
went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. 16 He would gladly
have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. 17 But when he came to himself he
said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will get up
and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; 19 I am no longer worthy to be
called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.”’ 20 So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his
father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. 21 Then the son said to
him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said
to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe — the best one — and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23
And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; 24 for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost
and is found!’ And they began to celebrate. 25 “Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the
house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. 27 He replied, ‘Your brother
has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.’ 28 Then he became angry and
refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Listen! For all these years I
have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young
goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with
prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!’ 31 Then the father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine
is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and
has been found.’”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us that heaven rejoices more for one repentant sinner than for 99 who did
not need to repent. How do you think you can bring great joy to God and the saints and
angels in heaven?
2. What does the parable of the Prodigal Son (verses 11-32) have to do with the
Sacrament of Penance?
3. Do you rejoice when someone who has lived a bad life and committed a lot of sins
comes back to the Lord, or do you behave like the older son in the parable? How do you
think Jesus wants you to act? Why?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 15:1 Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. 2 And the Pharisees and the scribes were
grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 So he told them this parable: 4 “Which one of
you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is
lost until he finds it? 5 When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. 6 And when he comes home, he calls
together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell
you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no
repentance. 8 “Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and
search carefully until she finds it? 9 When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with
me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ 10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one
sinner who repents.” 11 Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father,
‘Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 A few days later
the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living.
14 When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he
went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. 16 He would gladly
have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. 17 But when he came to himself he
said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will get up
and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; 19 I am no longer worthy to be
called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.”’ 20 So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his
father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. 21 Then the son said to
him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said
to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe — the best one — and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23
And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; 24 for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost
and is found!’ And they began to celebrate. 25 “Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the
house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. 27 He replied, ‘Your brother
has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.’ 28 Then he became angry and
refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Listen! For all these years I
have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young
goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with
prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!’ 31 Then the father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine
is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and
has been found.’”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us that heaven rejoices more for one repentant sinner than for 99 who did
not need to repent. How do you think you can bring great joy to God and the saints and
angels in heaven?
2. What does the parable of the Prodigal Son (verses 11-32) have to do with the
Sacrament of Penance?
3. Do you rejoice when someone who has lived a bad life and committed a lot of sins
comes back to the Lord, or do you behave like the older son in the parable? How do you
think Jesus wants you to act? Why?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
“What does it cost?” is a question that is oftentimes
asked about a product. Today that question is put to us in
relationship to our following Jesus. The cost is the cross and
putting God first in our lives.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
“What does it cost?” is a question that is oftentimes
asked about a product. Today that question is put to us in
relationship to our following Jesus. The cost is the cross and
putting God first in our lives.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, September 3, 2010
Family Bible Study - 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 14:25 Now large crowds were traveling with him; and he turned and said to
them, 26 “Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and
children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. 27
Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28 For which
of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see
whether he has enough to complete it? 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation
and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, 30 saying, ‘This
fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’ 31 Or what king, going out to wage
war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with
ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32 If
he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for
the terms of peace. 33 So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do
not give up all your possessions.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus gives us 3 rules for being His followers. He says
we have to (1) love Him more than everyone else; (2) carry the cross and follow him;
(3) and not care too much for “stuff” and “things” that we own. How would you
grade yourself in each of these three areas? What can you do better?
2. Jesus says that before we start something, we need to know we how to finish.
Before we start to follow Jesus, we need to know what it is going to take to finish
that journey. Do you understand what Jesus is asking of you?
3. Why do you think the three rules Jesus gives us are good for us to follow? Could
we really be His followers and love someone more than Him? Could we really be
His follower and not carry our cross and follow Him? Could we really be His
follower and want our “stuff” more that we want to go to Heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 14:25 Now large crowds were traveling with him; and he turned and said to
them, 26 “Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and
children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. 27
Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28 For which
of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see
whether he has enough to complete it? 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation
and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, 30 saying, ‘This
fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’ 31 Or what king, going out to wage
war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with
ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32 If
he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for
the terms of peace. 33 So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do
not give up all your possessions.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus gives us 3 rules for being His followers. He says
we have to (1) love Him more than everyone else; (2) carry the cross and follow him;
(3) and not care too much for “stuff” and “things” that we own. How would you
grade yourself in each of these three areas? What can you do better?
2. Jesus says that before we start something, we need to know we how to finish.
Before we start to follow Jesus, we need to know what it is going to take to finish
that journey. Do you understand what Jesus is asking of you?
3. Why do you think the three rules Jesus gives us are good for us to follow? Could
we really be His followers and love someone more than Him? Could we really be
His follower and not carry our cross and follow Him? Could we really be His
follower and want our “stuff” more that we want to go to Heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Family Bible Study - 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 14:1 On one occasion when Jesus was going to the house of a leader of the
Pharisees to eat a meal on the sabbath, they were watching him closely. 7 When he
noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. 8 “When
you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of
honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host;
9 and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, ‘Give this person
your place,’ and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. 10 But
when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host
comes, he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher’; then you will be honored in the
presence of all who sit at the table with you. 11 For all who exalt themselves will be
humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” 12 He said also to the
one who had invited him, “When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your
friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite
you in return, and you would be repaid. 13 But when you give a banquet, invite the
poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. 14 And you will be blessed, because they
cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says those who humble themselves will be exalted, and those who
exalt themselves will be humbled. In general, do you humble yourself or exalt
yourself. Which does Jesus want you to do? What did Jesus do?
2. If we want to be great, Jesus tells us in another part of the Gospel that we
need to fight not over the best seats, but over the “towel” to wash others’ feet.
How hard do you work to serve others humbly, so that Jesus might exalt you.
3. Jesus tells us to take care of those who cannot pay us back in this world, to make
sure that the good we do for others is out of love for others and not just so that we
get something out of it. What types of things can you do to take care of those people
who cannot repay you? What will you try to do this
week?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 14:1 On one occasion when Jesus was going to the house of a leader of the
Pharisees to eat a meal on the sabbath, they were watching him closely. 7 When he
noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. 8 “When
you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of
honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host;
9 and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, ‘Give this person
your place,’ and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. 10 But
when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host
comes, he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher’; then you will be honored in the
presence of all who sit at the table with you. 11 For all who exalt themselves will be
humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” 12 He said also to the
one who had invited him, “When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your
friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite
you in return, and you would be repaid. 13 But when you give a banquet, invite the
poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. 14 And you will be blessed, because they
cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says those who humble themselves will be exalted, and those who
exalt themselves will be humbled. In general, do you humble yourself or exalt
yourself. Which does Jesus want you to do? What did Jesus do?
2. If we want to be great, Jesus tells us in another part of the Gospel that we
need to fight not over the best seats, but over the “towel” to wash others’ feet.
How hard do you work to serve others humbly, so that Jesus might exalt you.
3. Jesus tells us to take care of those who cannot pay us back in this world, to make
sure that the good we do for others is out of love for others and not just so that we
get something out of it. What types of things can you do to take care of those people
who cannot repay you? What will you try to do this
week?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Humility is truth. It is recognizing what gifts we have.
More importantly, it is recognizing who is the source of these
gifts. God has given us everything; we cannot deny that fact.
When someone compliments us, our response could be: “Thank
you,” and then quietly to the Lord: “Thanks be to you, O God.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Humility is truth. It is recognizing what gifts we have.
More importantly, it is recognizing who is the source of these
gifts. God has given us everything; we cannot deny that fact.
When someone compliments us, our response could be: “Thank
you,” and then quietly to the Lord: “Thanks be to you, O God.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus offers salvation to all people. It is our belief that
God offers sufficient grace to everyone to be saved. However,
He does not force salvation upon us; we need to respond and to
accept this wondrous gift. The teachings of Jesus are not to be
taken cafeteria-style. We cannot pick and choose what we want
to believe. If Jesus said it, we need to accept it!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus offers salvation to all people. It is our belief that
God offers sufficient grace to everyone to be saved. However,
He does not force salvation upon us; we need to respond and to
accept this wondrous gift. The teachings of Jesus are not to be
taken cafeteria-style. We cannot pick and choose what we want
to believe. If Jesus said it, we need to accept it!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 13:22 Jesus went through one town and village after another, teaching as he
made his way to Jerusalem. 23 Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be
saved?” He said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I
tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. 25 When once the owner of the house
has got up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the
door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then in reply he will say to you, ‘I do not know
where you come from.’ 26 Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank with you,
and you taught in our streets.’ 27 But he will say, ‘I do not know where you come
from; go away from me, all you evildoers!’ 28 There will be weeping and gnashing
of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the
kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrown out. 29 Then people will come from
east and west, from north and south, and will eat in the kingdom of God. 30 Indeed,
some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”
Questions for discussion -
1. In response to the question of curiosity about a number to be saved, Jesus
tells us the way to be saved. What does he say we need to do?
2. Jesus says the way to heaven is a “narrow door” and that we’re called to
“strive” or “struggle.” This means that to get into heaven isn’t easy, we have to
conquer ourselves and obey God, not just give into whatever we want. How
hard have you been striving to enter this narrow door? Does everyone get to Heaven or only those who obey God? What about
people who make mistakes but are really sorry later and come to ask God to
forgive them?
3. Jesus says “some who are last [in this world] will be first and some who are
first [in this world] will be last.” This means that there will be surprises at the
gates of Heaven: some people we don’t think will be in heaven will be there;
some who we think will be there, may not be. What can you do to help Jesus
save others?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 13:22 Jesus went through one town and village after another, teaching as he
made his way to Jerusalem. 23 Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be
saved?” He said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I
tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. 25 When once the owner of the house
has got up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the
door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then in reply he will say to you, ‘I do not know
where you come from.’ 26 Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank with you,
and you taught in our streets.’ 27 But he will say, ‘I do not know where you come
from; go away from me, all you evildoers!’ 28 There will be weeping and gnashing
of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the
kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrown out. 29 Then people will come from
east and west, from north and south, and will eat in the kingdom of God. 30 Indeed,
some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”
Questions for discussion -
1. In response to the question of curiosity about a number to be saved, Jesus
tells us the way to be saved. What does he say we need to do?
2. Jesus says the way to heaven is a “narrow door” and that we’re called to
“strive” or “struggle.” This means that to get into heaven isn’t easy, we have to
conquer ourselves and obey God, not just give into whatever we want. How
hard have you been striving to enter this narrow door? Does everyone get to Heaven or only those who obey God? What about
people who make mistakes but are really sorry later and come to ask God to
forgive them?
3. Jesus says “some who are last [in this world] will be first and some who are
first [in this world] will be last.” This means that there will be surprises at the
gates of Heaven: some people we don’t think will be in heaven will be there;
some who we think will be there, may not be. What can you do to help Jesus
save others?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION
FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION
Today, August 15, is the feast of the Assumption of
the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Assumption means that Mary,
at the end of her life here on earth, was “assumed” (taken
into heaven), lest her body undergo corruption. It is a
promise of our being taken into heaven at the end of our
lives. Our faith teaches us that the Lord will raise us up and
take us into heaven where we will enjoy eternal life with our
God, with Mary, and with all the saints and angels.
We gather together on this day to give glory to God
as we honor Mary and commemorate her assumption into
heaven.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Today, August 15, is the feast of the Assumption of
the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Assumption means that Mary,
at the end of her life here on earth, was “assumed” (taken
into heaven), lest her body undergo corruption. It is a
promise of our being taken into heaven at the end of our
lives. Our faith teaches us that the Lord will raise us up and
take us into heaven where we will enjoy eternal life with our
God, with Mary, and with all the saints and angels.
We gather together on this day to give glory to God
as we honor Mary and commemorate her assumption into
heaven.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, August 13, 2010
Family Bible Study - Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Gospel Passage
Luke 1:38 Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me
according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. 39 In those days Mary
set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, 40 where she
entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard
Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the
Holy Spirit 42 and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and
blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And why has this happened to me, that the
mother of my Lord comes to me? 44 For as soon as I heard the sound of your
greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed
that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.” 46 And
Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on
all generations will call me blessed; 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for
me, and holy is his name. 50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to
generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in
the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down the powerful from their
thrones, and lifted up the lowly; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and
sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his
mercy, 55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his
descendants forever.” 56 And Mary remained with her about three months and then
returned to her home.
Questions for discussion -
1. We celebrate today the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
into Heaven. What does this feast mean? Did just Mary’s soul go up to Heaven OR
did her body AND soul go up? Did she go up by her own power or did God take
her
up?
2. What is Mary now doing in Heaven? Do you ever pray to Mary? Do you think
Jesus listens to His mother?
3. What do you think will happen to everyone who follows Mary in loving and
following her Son Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 1:38 Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me
according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. 39 In those days Mary
set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, 40 where she
entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard
Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the
Holy Spirit 42 and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and
blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And why has this happened to me, that the
mother of my Lord comes to me? 44 For as soon as I heard the sound of your
greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed
that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.” 46 And
Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on
all generations will call me blessed; 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for
me, and holy is his name. 50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to
generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in
the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down the powerful from their
thrones, and lifted up the lowly; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and
sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his
mercy, 55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his
descendants forever.” 56 And Mary remained with her about three months and then
returned to her home.
Questions for discussion -
1. We celebrate today the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
into Heaven. What does this feast mean? Did just Mary’s soul go up to Heaven OR
did her body AND soul go up? Did she go up by her own power or did God take
her
up?
2. What is Mary now doing in Heaven? Do you ever pray to Mary? Do you think
Jesus listens to His mother?
3. What do you think will happen to everyone who follows Mary in loving and
following her Son Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Friday, August 6, 2010
Family Bible Study - 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 12:32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the
kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear
out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For
where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35 “Be dressed for action and have your
lamps lit; 36 be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet,
so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. 37 Blessed are those
slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and
have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. 38 If he comes during the middle
of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. 39 “But know this: if
the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his
house be broken into. 40 You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an
unexpected hour.” 41 Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for everyone?” 42
And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and prudent manager whom his master will put in
charge of his slaves, to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? 43 Blessed is that
slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives. 44 Truly I tell you, he will put that
one in charge of all his possessions. 45 But if that slave says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in
coming,’ and if he begins to beat the other slaves, men and women, and to eat and drink and get
drunk, 46 the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an
hour that he does not know, and will cut him in pieces, and put him with the unfaithful. 47
That slave who knew what his master wanted, but did not prepare himself or do what was
wanted, will receive a severe beating. 48 But the one who did not know and did what deserved
a beating will receive a light beating. From everyone to whom much has been given, much will
be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us in the Gospel to be ready for Him whenever He comes, which
might even be today. How can you can get ready for His coming? (Hint: How can
you be helpful to others?)
2. Jesus says “to whom much has been given, much will be required.” Jesus
has given you many gifts and talents, especially the gift of faith and the
gift of the sacraments. What do you think he wants from you to
thank Him for these gifts?
3. Our money on earth is not needed in Heaven. But, to get to Heaven you must
help others in need on earth first. Are you working for God on earth so you can
earn treasures in Heaven? How are you doing this?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 12:32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the
kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear
out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For
where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35 “Be dressed for action and have your
lamps lit; 36 be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet,
so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. 37 Blessed are those
slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and
have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. 38 If he comes during the middle
of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. 39 “But know this: if
the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his
house be broken into. 40 You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an
unexpected hour.” 41 Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for everyone?” 42
And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and prudent manager whom his master will put in
charge of his slaves, to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? 43 Blessed is that
slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives. 44 Truly I tell you, he will put that
one in charge of all his possessions. 45 But if that slave says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in
coming,’ and if he begins to beat the other slaves, men and women, and to eat and drink and get
drunk, 46 the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an
hour that he does not know, and will cut him in pieces, and put him with the unfaithful. 47
That slave who knew what his master wanted, but did not prepare himself or do what was
wanted, will receive a severe beating. 48 But the one who did not know and did what deserved
a beating will receive a light beating. From everyone to whom much has been given, much will
be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us in the Gospel to be ready for Him whenever He comes, which
might even be today. How can you can get ready for His coming? (Hint: How can
you be helpful to others?)
2. Jesus says “to whom much has been given, much will be required.” Jesus
has given you many gifts and talents, especially the gift of faith and the
gift of the sacraments. What do you think he wants from you to
thank Him for these gifts?
3. Our money on earth is not needed in Heaven. But, to get to Heaven you must
help others in need on earth first. Are you working for God on earth so you can
earn treasures in Heaven? How are you doing this?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
“For where your treasure is, there also will your
heart be.” The question put to us today is” what is important
and what is our spiritual treasure. If the Lord and eternal life
are important treasures, then our hearts will be in everything
that we do. And what we do each day will reflect the Lord
and eternal happiness.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
“For where your treasure is, there also will your
heart be.” The question put to us today is” what is important
and what is our spiritual treasure. If the Lord and eternal life
are important treasures, then our hearts will be in everything
that we do. And what we do each day will reflect the Lord
and eternal happiness.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
We need to be seeking that which is really important
in life. Following the Lord and seeking the kingdom of
heaven is what is really important. Everything else needs to
be secondary to that goal. Keeping a proper perspective is a
challenge, but it is eternal life. Pray and seek the kingdom
of God above all things and everything else will follow.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
We need to be seeking that which is really important
in life. Following the Lord and seeking the kingdom of
heaven is what is really important. Everything else needs to
be secondary to that goal. Keeping a proper perspective is a
challenge, but it is eternal life. Pray and seek the kingdom
of God above all things and everything else will follow.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 12:13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide
the family inheritance with me.” 14 But he said to him, “Friend, who set me to be a
judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 And he said to them, “Take care! Be on your guard
against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of
possessions.” 16 Then he told them a parable: “The land of a rich man produced
abundantly. 17 And he thought to himself, ‘What should I do, for I have no place to
store my crops?’ 18 Then he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build
larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to
my soul, ‘Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be
merry.’ 20 But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is being
demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So it
is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us to share whatever we have with others. Do you know people
who are greedy? Why are these people almost always unhappy?
2. What should we do with our money? What do you think God wants us to
do with our money? Is money the only thing we have to share? What else
could we share?
3. How do we become rich in God’s eyes? What should we do to earn God’s
reward for our hard work? What “work” should we do?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 12:13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide
the family inheritance with me.” 14 But he said to him, “Friend, who set me to be a
judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 And he said to them, “Take care! Be on your guard
against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of
possessions.” 16 Then he told them a parable: “The land of a rich man produced
abundantly. 17 And he thought to himself, ‘What should I do, for I have no place to
store my crops?’ 18 Then he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build
larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to
my soul, ‘Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be
merry.’ 20 But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is being
demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So it
is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us to share whatever we have with others. Do you know people
who are greedy? Why are these people almost always unhappy?
2. What should we do with our money? What do you think God wants us to
do with our money? Is money the only thing we have to share? What else
could we share?
3. How do we become rich in God’s eyes? What should we do to earn God’s
reward for our hard work? What “work” should we do?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY
TIME
The Lord wants us to continue to ask for His special
blessings and graces. We cannot give up. Even if, at first
we do not receive that for which we ask, we manifest our
trust in God and know that He will indeed hear our prayer in
His way and in His time. Abraham could have continued to
ask the Lord and, perhaps, the Lord would have spared those
towns. “Ask and you will receive; seek and you will find;
knock and the door will be opened to you.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
TIME
The Lord wants us to continue to ask for His special
blessings and graces. We cannot give up. Even if, at first
we do not receive that for which we ask, we manifest our
trust in God and know that He will indeed hear our prayer in
His way and in His time. Abraham could have continued to
ask the Lord and, perhaps, the Lord would have spared those
towns. “Ask and you will receive; seek and you will find;
knock and the door will be opened to you.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Family Bible Study - 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 11:1 He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said
to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” 2 He said to them, “When you
pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily
bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not
bring us to the time of trial.” 5 And he said to them, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and you
go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6 for a friend of
mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.’ 7 And he answers from within, ‘Do not
bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get
up and give you anything.’ 8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything
because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever
he needs. 9 “So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock,
and the door will be opened for you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who
searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 Is there anyone
among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? 12 Or if the
child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good
gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those
who ask him!”
Questions for discussion -
1. “Lord, teach us to pray!” Jesus wants to teach us how to pray, by his own example, by his own recorded prayers in the Gospel, and especially through the Our Father. What does the Our Father mean? Why do you think Jesus teaches us pray to the Father rather than Him?
2. Jesus tells us to persevere in prayer like the person trying to get loaves from a
neighbor. How persistent are you in prayer?
3. Jesus promises that the Father wants to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!
How often do you pray for the really important things, for heaven, for eternal life, for holiness, for an increased relationship with God, for the gifts of the Holy Spirit?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 11:1 He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said
to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” 2 He said to them, “When you
pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily
bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not
bring us to the time of trial.” 5 And he said to them, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and you
go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6 for a friend of
mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.’ 7 And he answers from within, ‘Do not
bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get
up and give you anything.’ 8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything
because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever
he needs. 9 “So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock,
and the door will be opened for you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who
searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 Is there anyone
among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? 12 Or if the
child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good
gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those
who ask him!”
Questions for discussion -
1. “Lord, teach us to pray!” Jesus wants to teach us how to pray, by his own example, by his own recorded prayers in the Gospel, and especially through the Our Father. What does the Our Father mean? Why do you think Jesus teaches us pray to the Father rather than Him?
2. Jesus tells us to persevere in prayer like the person trying to get loaves from a
neighbor. How persistent are you in prayer?
3. Jesus promises that the Father wants to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!
How often do you pray for the really important things, for heaven, for eternal life, for holiness, for an increased relationship with God, for the gifts of the Holy Spirit?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Friday, July 16, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
There needs to be a Martha and a Mary in each
of us. The Martha does the work of the Lord and serves
Him and His people. The Mary realizes whom she is
serving and enjoys the company of the Lord. Do the
Lord’s work, but know for whom we are doing it!
Spend some time in the company of the Lord in prayer,
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
There needs to be a Martha and a Mary in each
of us. The Martha does the work of the Lord and serves
Him and His people. The Mary realizes whom she is
serving and enjoys the company of the Lord. Do the
Lord’s work, but know for whom we are doing it!
Spend some time in the company of the Lord in prayer,
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 10:38 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village,
where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 She had a
sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was
saying. 40 But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him
and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the
work by myself? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her,
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; 42 there
is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be
taken away from her.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says that “one thing is necessary” and that “Mary has chosen the better
part.” What or who is that “one thing necessary”? (Hint: Does it have anything
to do with who the center or focus of our lives should be?) Why was Mary’s
choice better than Martha’s? Who did she put first?
2. What do you think Martha could have done better? Why was she distracted?
Do you ever get so busy that you forget to put Jesus first?
3. Martha and Mary welcomed Jesus into their home. How well do you let
Jesus in your heart. Is he a welcomed guest? How much do you treasure Him?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 10:38 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village,
where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 She had a
sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was
saying. 40 But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him
and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the
work by myself? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her,
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; 42 there
is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be
taken away from her.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says that “one thing is necessary” and that “Mary has chosen the better
part.” What or who is that “one thing necessary”? (Hint: Does it have anything
to do with who the center or focus of our lives should be?) Why was Mary’s
choice better than Martha’s? Who did she put first?
2. What do you think Martha could have done better? Why was she distracted?
Do you ever get so busy that you forget to put Jesus first?
3. Martha and Mary welcomed Jesus into their home. How well do you let
Jesus in your heart. Is he a welcomed guest? How much do you treasure Him?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Friday, July 9, 2010
Family Bible Study - 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 10:25 Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I
do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? What do
you read there?” 27 He answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your
heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and
your neighbor as yourself.” 28 And he said to him, “You have given the right
answer; do this, and you will live.” 29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus,
“And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from
Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him,
and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down
that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a
Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a
Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with
pity. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on
them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of
him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said,
‘Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.’
36 Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the
hands of the robbers?” 37 He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus said to
him, “Go and do likewise.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Jesus says that we are to love the Lord our God with all our
heart, all our soul, all our strength, and all our mind. How much of your heart
do you use to love God? Your soul? Your strength? Your mind? (Give yourself
numerical grades like 25%, 50%, 100%). How can you do better?
2. Who is your “neighbor” today? How can you be a “Good Samaritan” today?
3. The question “What must I do to inherit eternal life” is really one of the
most important questions you could ever ask. What is the answer to this question? How are you putting this answer into practice?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 10:25 Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I
do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? What do
you read there?” 27 He answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your
heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and
your neighbor as yourself.” 28 And he said to him, “You have given the right
answer; do this, and you will live.” 29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus,
“And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from
Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him,
and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down
that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a
Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a
Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with
pity. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on
them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of
him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said,
‘Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.’
36 Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the
hands of the robbers?” 37 He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus said to
him, “Go and do likewise.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Jesus says that we are to love the Lord our God with all our
heart, all our soul, all our strength, and all our mind. How much of your heart
do you use to love God? Your soul? Your strength? Your mind? (Give yourself
numerical grades like 25%, 50%, 100%). How can you do better?
2. Who is your “neighbor” today? How can you be a “Good Samaritan” today?
3. The question “What must I do to inherit eternal life” is really one of the
most important questions you could ever ask. What is the answer to this question? How are you putting this answer into practice?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Perhaps we look at The Commandments of God as a negative prohibition. However, if we think about it, how wonderful the world would be if everyone kept all of the Commandments! None of us would have to worry about anything! There would not be any more gossip or people getting hurt in any way. All of the Commandments can be summarized into the two great Commandments: Love God and love your neighbor as yourself. By the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus tells us that everyone is our neighbor. Then Jesus commands us to treat others in the exact same way with mercy and kindness.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Family Bible Study - 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of
him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. 2 He said to
them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 3 Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. 4 Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. 5 Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ 6 And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. 7 Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. 8 Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; 9 cure the sick who are there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ 10 But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.’ 12 I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us to pray to the “Lord of the harvest” to send laborers into his
vineyard”. His “vineyard” is the world. God needs workers! What work are
you going to do for him?
2. Two types of work that are very important for the “harvest” are the
priesthood and religious life (nuns and religious brothers). (Boys) If God is
calling you to be a priest, would you say yes and join His priests in the
vineyard? (Girls) If God is calling you to serve Him as a religious sister,
teaching or working in a hospital or a parish, or loving Him in prayer in a
cloister, would you say yes?
3. Jesus says to tell everyone that the kingdom of God is near. Where is the
kingdom? (Hint: where is the king?)
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of
him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. 2 He said to
them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 3 Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. 4 Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. 5 Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ 6 And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. 7 Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. 8 Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; 9 cure the sick who are there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ 10 But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.’ 12 I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus tells us to pray to the “Lord of the harvest” to send laborers into his
vineyard”. His “vineyard” is the world. God needs workers! What work are
you going to do for him?
2. Two types of work that are very important for the “harvest” are the
priesthood and religious life (nuns and religious brothers). (Boys) If God is
calling you to be a priest, would you say yes and join His priests in the
vineyard? (Girls) If God is calling you to serve Him as a religious sister,
teaching or working in a hospital or a parish, or loving Him in prayer in a
cloister, would you say yes?
3. Jesus says to tell everyone that the kingdom of God is near. Where is the
kingdom? (Hint: where is the king?)
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus sent out the disciples in pairs to preach the
word. He knew that they would need the support and
encouragement of one another. He gave them the power
to work wonders with the ministry that He gave them.
They experienced great miracles as they returned to tell
Jesus of their success. As Jesus sends us forth to do His
work, He gives us individuals to assist us, and the
power of the Holy Spirit to empower us.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus sent out the disciples in pairs to preach the
word. He knew that they would need the support and
encouragement of one another. He gave them the power
to work wonders with the ministry that He gave them.
They experienced great miracles as they returned to tell
Jesus of their success. As Jesus sends us forth to do His
work, He gives us individuals to assist us, and the
power of the Holy Spirit to empower us.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Family Bible Study - Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 9:51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to
Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a
village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; 53 but they did not receive him,
because his face was set toward Jerusalem. 54 When his disciples James and John
saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven
and consume them?” 55 But he turned and rebuked them. 56 Then they went on to
another village. 57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, “I will
follow you wherever you go.” 58 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and
birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” 59 To
another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.”
60 But Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and
proclaim the kingdom of God.” 61 Another said, “I will follow you, Lord; but let me
first say farewell to those at my home.” 62 Jesus said to him, “No one who puts a
hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus “set his face to go to Jerusalem.” Jesus was focused on finishing the
task the Father had given him, to die to save us from our sins. What task has
God given you? How focused are you on that task?
2. Jesus met three people who said they wanted to follow Jesus, but all various
types of excuses of why they couldn’t follow him now. What were these three
excuses?
3. What excuses have you or others you know made not to follow Jesus fully?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 9:51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to
Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a
village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; 53 but they did not receive him,
because his face was set toward Jerusalem. 54 When his disciples James and John
saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven
and consume them?” 55 But he turned and rebuked them. 56 Then they went on to
another village. 57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, “I will
follow you wherever you go.” 58 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and
birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” 59 To
another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.”
60 But Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and
proclaim the kingdom of God.” 61 Another said, “I will follow you, Lord; but let me
first say farewell to those at my home.” 62 Jesus said to him, “No one who puts a
hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus “set his face to go to Jerusalem.” Jesus was focused on finishing the
task the Father had given him, to die to save us from our sins. What task has
God given you? How focused are you on that task?
2. Jesus met three people who said they wanted to follow Jesus, but all various
types of excuses of why they couldn’t follow him now. What were these three
excuses?
3. What excuses have you or others you know made not to follow Jesus fully?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jesus reminds us to keep our eyes fixed on Him and to move forward with our hearts and our lives in that direction. We cannot follow Him looking through a rear view mirror, but to look forward as He leads and guides us. There are sacrifices, but the rewards are great!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, June 18, 2010
Family Bible Study - 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 9:18 Once when Jesus was praying alone, with only the disciples near
him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They
answered, “John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of
the ancient prophets has arisen.” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say
that I am?” Peter answered, “The Messiah of God.” 21 He sternly ordered
and commanded them not to tell anyone, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must
undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and
scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” 23 Then he said to
them all, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves
and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For those who want to save
their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it.
Questions for Discussion -
1. Who do the crowds (people) today — say that Jesus is? Do you wonder if they
listen to Him or even know who He is?
2. Who do you say that Jesus is? Would you say the same thing as St. Peter?
3. Jesus says that to be his follower, we have to do three things: deny
ourselves (think about helping others before we worry about ourselves), take
up our crosses (problems) every day and follow him (obey him). How would
you grade yourself in these three related subjects?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 9:18 Once when Jesus was praying alone, with only the disciples near
him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They
answered, “John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of
the ancient prophets has arisen.” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say
that I am?” Peter answered, “The Messiah of God.” 21 He sternly ordered
and commanded them not to tell anyone, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must
undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and
scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” 23 Then he said to
them all, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves
and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For those who want to save
their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it.
Questions for Discussion -
1. Who do the crowds (people) today — say that Jesus is? Do you wonder if they
listen to Him or even know who He is?
2. Who do you say that Jesus is? Would you say the same thing as St. Peter?
3. Jesus says that to be his follower, we have to do three things: deny
ourselves (think about helping others before we worry about ourselves), take
up our crosses (problems) every day and follow him (obey him). How would
you grade yourself in these three related subjects?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWELFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus asked the religion question: “Who do the
crowds say that I am?” Then He asked the spiritual
question: “But who do you say that I am?” It is important to
know the religion answer, but it is more important to know
the spiritual answer of who the Lord is in our lives. It is
something that we need always to reflect upon and to see
who Jesus is for us.
Jesus reminds us that the cross is part of our lives as
we follow Him.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus asked the religion question: “Who do the
crowds say that I am?” Then He asked the spiritual
question: “But who do you say that I am?” It is important to
know the religion answer, but it is more important to know
the spiritual answer of who the Lord is in our lives. It is
something that we need always to reflect upon and to see
who Jesus is for us.
Jesus reminds us that the cross is part of our lives as
we follow Him.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Family Bible Study - 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Luke 7:36 One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and took his
place at table. 37 And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was at table in the
Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, 38 and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she
began to wet his feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed
them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, “If this man
were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a
sinner.” 40 And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “What is
it, Teacher?” 41 “A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When
they could not pay, he forgave them both. Now which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered, “The one,
I suppose, to whom he forgave more.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.” 44 Then turning toward the
woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house, you gave me no water for my feet, but she
has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in
she has not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with
ointment. 47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven
little, loves little.” 48 And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 Then those who were at table with him began
to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” 50 And he said to the woman, “Your faith has
saved you; go in peace.” 8:1 Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the
good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of
evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna, the
wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.
Questions for discussion -
1. The roads were dusty and everyone wore sandals. Their feet got very
dirty! Washing someone’s dirty feet was a very kind thing to do. What do
you think the woman was telling Jesus by washing His feet with her tears and
drying them with her hair?
2. Jesus says that the one who has been forgiven more will love more. Do you
think you have been forgiven a lot by Jesus or a little? Does your love for
Him equal how much you’ve been forgiven?
3. At the end of the Gospel, Jesus and His apostles are surrounded
by women who took care of them. What do you think this shows about the
importance of women helping out Jesus and the apostles in the mission of
the Church?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Luke 7:36 One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and took his
place at table. 37 And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was at table in the
Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, 38 and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she
began to wet his feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed
them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, “If this man
were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a
sinner.” 40 And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “What is
it, Teacher?” 41 “A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When
they could not pay, he forgave them both. Now which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered, “The one,
I suppose, to whom he forgave more.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.” 44 Then turning toward the
woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house, you gave me no water for my feet, but she
has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in
she has not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with
ointment. 47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven
little, loves little.” 48 And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 Then those who were at table with him began
to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” 50 And he said to the woman, “Your faith has
saved you; go in peace.” 8:1 Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the
good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of
evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna, the
wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.
Questions for discussion -
1. The roads were dusty and everyone wore sandals. Their feet got very
dirty! Washing someone’s dirty feet was a very kind thing to do. What do
you think the woman was telling Jesus by washing His feet with her tears and
drying them with her hair?
2. Jesus says that the one who has been forgiven more will love more. Do you
think you have been forgiven a lot by Jesus or a little? Does your love for
Him equal how much you’ve been forgiven?
3. At the end of the Gospel, Jesus and His apostles are surrounded
by women who took care of them. What do you think this shows about the
importance of women helping out Jesus and the apostles in the mission of
the Church?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
ELEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
There are no sins that the Lord does not want to
forgive. There is no limit to the number of times that we
commit a sin that the Lord does not want to forgive. All
we need to do is to come to the Lord and ask for His
forgiveness. It is ours for the asking. David was told:
“The Lord on his part has forgiven your sin.” Jesus
speaks of the woman: “her many sins have been forgiven
because she has loved much.”
In our parish prayer, we pray: “Touch the hearts
of all to accept Your forgiveness.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
There are no sins that the Lord does not want to
forgive. There is no limit to the number of times that we
commit a sin that the Lord does not want to forgive. All
we need to do is to come to the Lord and ask for His
forgiveness. It is ours for the asking. David was told:
“The Lord on his part has forgiven your sin.” Jesus
speaks of the woman: “her many sins have been forgiven
because she has loved much.”
In our parish prayer, we pray: “Touch the hearts
of all to accept Your forgiveness.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)
This is the feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of
Christ (Corpus Christi). When Jesus foretold that He would
give us His Body as food and His Blood as drink, there was no
doubt what He meant. Some complained and said that this
teaching was too much for them and they left Jesus. Jesus did
not water down this teaching. Those who stayed with Him
accepted His teaching even though they did not fully
understand how it would take place. They trusted in the word
of Jesus and it brought them life. At the Last Supper, Jesus
fulfilled that prophecy of giving Himself in the Eucharist.
Jesus invites us to sit at table with Him. At this table,
He gives us His word to nourish our minds and He gives us
Himself to nourish our souls. He invites us to come to Him
either sacramentally in Holy Communion or, if for whatever
reason we cannot, then spiritually by our great desire to be one
with Him. Jesus also wanted to be with us for adoration and so
He is present in all the tabernacles throughout the world.
It is from the altar that Jesus becomes present in His
word and sacrament. It is the altar of sacrifice that makes Jesus
real and present to us, His brothers and sisters.
Jesus fed the crowd with five loaves and two fish. He
now feeds us with His word and sacrament.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Christ (Corpus Christi). When Jesus foretold that He would
give us His Body as food and His Blood as drink, there was no
doubt what He meant. Some complained and said that this
teaching was too much for them and they left Jesus. Jesus did
not water down this teaching. Those who stayed with Him
accepted His teaching even though they did not fully
understand how it would take place. They trusted in the word
of Jesus and it brought them life. At the Last Supper, Jesus
fulfilled that prophecy of giving Himself in the Eucharist.
Jesus invites us to sit at table with Him. At this table,
He gives us His word to nourish our minds and He gives us
Himself to nourish our souls. He invites us to come to Him
either sacramentally in Holy Communion or, if for whatever
reason we cannot, then spiritually by our great desire to be one
with Him. Jesus also wanted to be with us for adoration and so
He is present in all the tabernacles throughout the world.
It is from the altar that Jesus becomes present in His
word and sacrament. It is the altar of sacrifice that makes Jesus
real and present to us, His brothers and sisters.
Jesus fed the crowd with five loaves and two fish. He
now feeds us with His word and sacrament.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Family Bible Study - Feast of The Most Holy Trinity
Gospel Passage
John 16:12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear
them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the
truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears,
and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me,
because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the
Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and
declare it to you.
Questions for discussion -
1. This weekend is the Feast of the Holy Trinity. What do we mean when we
say the Trinity? (Hint: “tri = 3”)
2. Jesus sent us out to make followers of everyone, helping them to be
baptized in the name of the Holy Trinity and teaching them to do everything
He tells us. How does the Holy Spirit in the Gospel story above, help us to do
this?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 16:12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear
them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the
truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears,
and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me,
because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the
Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and
declare it to you.
Questions for discussion -
1. This weekend is the Feast of the Holy Trinity. What do we mean when we
say the Trinity? (Hint: “tri = 3”)
2. Jesus sent us out to make followers of everyone, helping them to be
baptized in the name of the Holy Trinity and teaching them to do everything
He tells us. How does the Holy Spirit in the Gospel story above, help us to do
this?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Feast of The Most Holy Trinity
The doctrine of The Most Holy Trinity is that there are three Persons; The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit who share the One Divine Nature. These three Persons existed from all eternity and are equally to be adored. What it means for us is threefold: 1) we have a Father who adopted us into His family, who calls us His beloved children, and who shares His life with us. 2) we have a big brother, Jesus, who is like us in all things, except sin, who has experienced all that we can experience, and who shows us how to handle everything. 3) we have a Holy Spirit, who enlightens us and strengthens us that we might follow the Lord Jesus and thereby, become holy and share everlasting happiness.
It is more important to experience the Holy Trinity, than to explain it!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
It is more important to experience the Holy Trinity, than to explain it!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, May 21, 2010
Family Bible Study - Pentecost Sunday
Scripture Passage
Acts 2:1 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2
And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it
filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 Divided tongues, as of fire,
appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4 All of them were
filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave
them ability. 5 Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living
in Jerusalem. 6 And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because
each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. 7 Amazed and
astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is
it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes,
Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10
Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and
visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs — in our own
languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Why do you think the Holy Spirit came down upon the Apostles in the
forms of tongues of fire? Why tongues? Why fire? (Hint: think about what we
need the tongue to do and whether fire expresses passion).
2. The Holy Spirit helped the apostles to communicate with people from all
nations and languages. How do you think the Holy Spirit wants to help you
talk to others about Jesus?
3. The apostles were gathered together around Mary praying for the Holy
Spirit to come. How often do you pray with Mary’s help for the Holy Spirit to
come into your life?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Acts 2:1 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2
And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it
filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 Divided tongues, as of fire,
appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4 All of them were
filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave
them ability. 5 Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living
in Jerusalem. 6 And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because
each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. 7 Amazed and
astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is
it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes,
Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10
Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and
visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs — in our own
languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.”
Questions for discussion -
1. Why do you think the Holy Spirit came down upon the Apostles in the
forms of tongues of fire? Why tongues? Why fire? (Hint: think about what we
need the tongue to do and whether fire expresses passion).
2. The Holy Spirit helped the apostles to communicate with people from all
nations and languages. How do you think the Holy Spirit wants to help you
talk to others about Jesus?
3. The apostles were gathered together around Mary praying for the Holy
Spirit to come. How often do you pray with Mary’s help for the Holy Spirit to
come into your life?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Here's a craft for Pentecost...
Pentecost Wall Hanging Craft
To do this, you'll need:
White paper
Red Paper
Something to draw with
Cup to trace circle shapes
Scissors
Glue and tape
Stapler
Hole puncher
String or yarn
Here's what to do:
First, draw a dove(Holy Spirit)about the size of a sheet of white paper (8.5" x 11") and cut it out.
Next, Take the cup and trace seven circles on the red paper.
Write the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit on each circle.
Take the hole puncher and put a small hole on the top of each circle and on the bottom of the tail feathers and through the top of the two wings.
Tie the string or yarn from the circles to the tail feathers and through both holes of the wings so you can hang it up for the celebration of Pentecost!
Sunday Gospel Message - Pentecost Sunday
PENTECOST SUNDAY
Today is the feast of Pentecost, the birthday of the
Church. Jesus had spent His life here on earth to establish the
Church and to teach the Apostles who, in turn, would hand on
His teachings to others for all times. Just as the story of the
creation of Adam depicts God breathing “into his nostrils the
breath of life, and so man became a living being,” so the Father
gave the breath of the Holy Spirit through Jesus and, then, the
Holy Spirit gave breath and life to the Church.
The Holy Spirit continues to guide and direct the
Church, which is all of us. The giving of the Holy Spirit
transformed the lives of the early disciples. That same Holy
Spirit has been given as a gift from the Father to us to transform
us also. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and
enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your spirit
and we shall be created and you shall renew the face of the
earth.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Today is the feast of Pentecost, the birthday of the
Church. Jesus had spent His life here on earth to establish the
Church and to teach the Apostles who, in turn, would hand on
His teachings to others for all times. Just as the story of the
creation of Adam depicts God breathing “into his nostrils the
breath of life, and so man became a living being,” so the Father
gave the breath of the Holy Spirit through Jesus and, then, the
Holy Spirit gave breath and life to the Church.
The Holy Spirit continues to guide and direct the
Church, which is all of us. The giving of the Holy Spirit
transformed the lives of the early disciples. That same Holy
Spirit has been given as a gift from the Father to us to transform
us also. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and
enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your spirit
and we shall be created and you shall renew the face of the
earth.”
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, May 14, 2010
Family Bible Study - Seventh Sunday of Easter
Gospel Passage
John 17:20 “I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those
who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one. As
you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the
world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given
me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, 23 I in them
and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may
know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved
me. 24 Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be
with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you
loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 “Righteous Father, the
world does not know you, but I know you; and these know that you have
sent me. 26 I made your name known to them, and I will make it known, so
that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”
Questions for discussion -
1. In this prayer from the last Supper, Jesus is praying for all of us who would
hear and believe in the word of God through the work of the apostles. What
two things does Jesus pray for here? (Circle the two correct answers)
a) that we might be good people, liked by all
b) that we may be one, like the Holy Trinity
c) that God may glorify us
d) that we may be where Jesus is, to see his glory
2. Jesus wants us to be so united in love that the world may know that the
Father sent the Son and loves us. How would our love reflect God?
3. Jesus has revealed the Father to us so that we might live in the Father’s love.
How do we remain in the Father’s love?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 17:20 “I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those
who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one. As
you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the
world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given
me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, 23 I in them
and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may
know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved
me. 24 Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be
with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you
loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 “Righteous Father, the
world does not know you, but I know you; and these know that you have
sent me. 26 I made your name known to them, and I will make it known, so
that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”
Questions for discussion -
1. In this prayer from the last Supper, Jesus is praying for all of us who would
hear and believe in the word of God through the work of the apostles. What
two things does Jesus pray for here? (Circle the two correct answers)
a) that we might be good people, liked by all
b) that we may be one, like the Holy Trinity
c) that God may glorify us
d) that we may be where Jesus is, to see his glory
2. Jesus wants us to be so united in love that the world may know that the
Father sent the Son and loves us. How would our love reflect God?
3. Jesus has revealed the Father to us so that we might live in the Father’s love.
How do we remain in the Father’s love?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - Sixth Sunday of Easter
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Jesus promised that He would give His gift of peace. Yet shortly thereafter, there was dissension in the Church, as we see in the Acts of the Apostles. However, they trusted in the power of the Holy Spirit that Jesus sent from the Father. That Spirit guided the Apostles in their deliberations. What Jesus promised was that we could have the reassurance of His presence with us, no matter what difficulties we would face. "Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid," Jesus tells us because He is with us! He sent the Holy Spirit to teach us everything and to remind us of what He told us. His presence and the gift of the Holy Spirit are what we need in our life's journey.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus promised that He would give His gift of peace. Yet shortly thereafter, there was dissension in the Church, as we see in the Acts of the Apostles. However, they trusted in the power of the Holy Spirit that Jesus sent from the Father. That Spirit guided the Apostles in their deliberations. What Jesus promised was that we could have the reassurance of His presence with us, no matter what difficulties we would face. "Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid," Jesus tells us because He is with us! He sent the Holy Spirit to teach us everything and to remind us of what He told us. His presence and the gift of the Holy Spirit are what we need in our life's journey.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Sixth Sunday of Easter
Gospel Passage
John 14:23 Jesus answered him, “Those who love me will keep my word,
and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home
with them. 24 Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the
word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me. 25 “I
have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Advocate,
the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you
everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave
with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do
not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. 28 You heard
me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I am coming to you.’ If you loved me,
you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater
than I. 29 And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does
occur, you may believe.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says that those who love Him keep His words; those who do not
love him, do not keep his words. Do you keep his
words? Where do you need to grow in love?
2. Jesus says the Holy Spirit helps us learn everything Jesus has said to us.
How often do you pray to the Holy Spirit to learn more about the words of
Jesus and how to follow Him?
3. What is the peace that Jesus gives us? How is it different from the peace the
“world gives”?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 14:23 Jesus answered him, “Those who love me will keep my word,
and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home
with them. 24 Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the
word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me. 25 “I
have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Advocate,
the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you
everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave
with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do
not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. 28 You heard
me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I am coming to you.’ If you loved me,
you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater
than I. 29 And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does
occur, you may believe.
Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus says that those who love Him keep His words; those who do not
love him, do not keep his words. Do you keep his
words? Where do you need to grow in love?
2. Jesus says the Holy Spirit helps us learn everything Jesus has said to us.
How often do you pray to the Holy Spirit to learn more about the words of
Jesus and how to follow Him?
3. What is the peace that Jesus gives us? How is it different from the peace the
“world gives”?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - Fifth Sunday of Easter
Paul and Barnabas proclaimed the word of the Lord in Lystra, Iconium, Antioch, Pisidia, Pamphylia, Perge, and Attalia; they reported to the people what God had done for them, with them, and through them. They were able to find success in their preaching in many places because of the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gave success to their preaching. It is the Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit in our lives that enable us to do His work. We too are called to be disciples (followers of the Lord) and then apostles (those sent by the Lord).
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Fifth Sunday of Easter
Gospel Passage
John 13:31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has
been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32 If God has been
glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at
once. 33 Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for
me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you
cannot come.’ 34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one
another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35 By
this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one
another.”
Questions for Discussion -
1. Jesus’ commandment is to love one another as He loves us. How does Jesus love us? What did He do for us?
2. Jesus wants our love for each other to be so great that everyone else will be
able to know that we’re his disciples by this love. This means that our failure
to love can hurt others’ coming to the faith. What do you need to work on so
that you can love like Jesus calls you to?
3. Jesus said, “Little children, I am with you only a little longer.” What did He
mean? Where was He going?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 13:31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has
been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32 If God has been
glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at
once. 33 Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for
me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you
cannot come.’ 34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one
another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35 By
this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one
another.”
Questions for Discussion -
1. Jesus’ commandment is to love one another as He loves us. How does Jesus love us? What did He do for us?
2. Jesus wants our love for each other to be so great that everyone else will be
able to know that we’re his disciples by this love. This means that our failure
to love can hurt others’ coming to the faith. What do you need to work on so
that you can love like Jesus calls you to?
3. Jesus said, “Little children, I am with you only a little longer.” What did He
mean? Where was He going?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - Fourth Sunday of Easter
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
Paul and Barnabas proclaimed the word of the Lord
first to the Jewish people. Because many of them were not
open to hear the word of the Lord, they then went to the
Gentiles. Their mission from Jesus was to teach and to leave
the results up to Him. Jesus tells us today that He wants to
be our Good Shepherd, to lead us and to guide us and to
bring us to eternal happiness. We pray that we may be open
to hear the voice that we may be lead to eternal joy with
Him.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Paul and Barnabas proclaimed the word of the Lord
first to the Jewish people. Because many of them were not
open to hear the word of the Lord, they then went to the
Gentiles. Their mission from Jesus was to teach and to leave
the results up to Him. Jesus tells us today that He wants to
be our Good Shepherd, to lead us and to guide us and to
bring us to eternal happiness. We pray that we may be open
to hear the voice that we may be lead to eternal joy with
Him.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Fourth Sunday of Easter
Gospel Passage
John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. 28 I
give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them
out of my hand. 29 What my Father has given me is greater than all else,
and no one can snatch it out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are
one.”
Questions for discussion -
1. How do we hear Jesus’ voice? Where and when can you listen to Jesus?
2. Jesus says his sheep follow him in their actions. Who are His “sheep”? How
well do you follow Jesus?
3. The Lord Jesus says the Father and Him are one. Their unity is perfect. God
calls his disciples to be one, like the Father is in the Son and the Son in the
Father. What do you need to do to bring about this same “unity” in your
family, in your parish, and with your friends?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. 28 I
give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them
out of my hand. 29 What my Father has given me is greater than all else,
and no one can snatch it out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are
one.”
Questions for discussion -
1. How do we hear Jesus’ voice? Where and when can you listen to Jesus?
2. Jesus says his sheep follow him in their actions. Who are His “sheep”? How
well do you follow Jesus?
3. The Lord Jesus says the Father and Him are one. Their unity is perfect. God
calls his disciples to be one, like the Father is in the Son and the Son in the
Father. What do you need to do to bring about this same “unity” in your
family, in your parish, and with your friends?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - Third Sunday of Easter
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
The disciples had been fishing all night and had
caught nothing. How frustrating that must have been! Jesus
appears to them and tells them to cast the net on the other
side of the boat and they would catch fish. Not too logical,
is it? However, following the word of Jesus, they caught
153 large fish. Obedience to the word of the Lord in our
lives produces the same results. If we are out there doing
our own thing, we will catch nothing. If we listen and
follow the Lord’s direction, great things happen!
Used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
The disciples had been fishing all night and had
caught nothing. How frustrating that must have been! Jesus
appears to them and tells them to cast the net on the other
side of the boat and they would catch fish. Not too logical,
is it? However, following the word of Jesus, they caught
153 large fish. Obedience to the word of the Lord in our
lives produces the same results. If we are out there doing
our own thing, we will catch nothing. If we listen and
follow the Lord’s direction, great things happen!
Used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Third Sunday of Easter
Gospel Passage
John 21:1 After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he showed himself in this way. 2 Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am
going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish, have you?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He
said to them, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and
jumped into the sea. 8 But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off. 9 When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish hat you have just caught.” 11
So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came
and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. 15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus
said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my
sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know
that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you
used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out
your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” 19
(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow
me.”
Questions for Discussion -
1. Jesus asked St. Peter three times if he loved him. Why do you think he asked him
three times? (Hint: think of Peter’s actions after the Last Supper. Is there
something that happens next three times?)
2. Jesus gave work to his people — “feed my sheep, feed my lambs” — dependent
on loving Him. Do you love Jesus enough to help him “feed” his “sheep and
lambs”? Who are they and how can we feed them?
3. Jesus had helped St. Peter catch a miraculous load of fish once before, when he
called him to be a “fisher of men,” to catch people. Why do you think he did the
same miracle here? Did He want to remind them of something?
Used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 21:1 After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he showed himself in this way. 2 Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am
going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish, have you?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He
said to them, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and
jumped into the sea. 8 But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off. 9 When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish hat you have just caught.” 11
So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came
and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. 15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus
said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my
sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know
that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you
used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out
your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” 19
(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow
me.”
Questions for Discussion -
1. Jesus asked St. Peter three times if he loved him. Why do you think he asked him
three times? (Hint: think of Peter’s actions after the Last Supper. Is there
something that happens next three times?)
2. Jesus gave work to his people — “feed my sheep, feed my lambs” — dependent
on loving Him. Do you love Jesus enough to help him “feed” his “sheep and
lambs”? Who are they and how can we feed them?
3. Jesus had helped St. Peter catch a miraculous load of fish once before, when he
called him to be a “fisher of men,” to catch people. Why do you think he did the
same miracle here? Did He want to remind them of something?
Used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Sunday Gospel Message - Divine Mercy Sunday
SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER
OR DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
We can look at Thomas as the “doubting Thomas,” the
one would not believe unless he could see, or we can look at
him as the “desirous Thomas,” the one who really wanted to see
the Lord. Thomas wanted the same experience as the other
Apostles and he wanted to touch the Lord Jesus in order that he
could know that Jesus was really alive. We need to have that
same desire to see Jesus and know that He is risen and is in our
lives.
A way that helps us to know Jesus in our lives is to do
what the early Christians did. They joined together in prayer
and the Lord revealed Himself to them in their communal
prayer life. As we gather in prayer during the celebration of the
Eucharist, we can expect that the Lord will reveal Himself to
us. As we share our time, talent, and treasure with one another,
as the early Christians did, the Lord will be with us also.
It is the ninth day since Good Friday when Jesus died
for our sins. It is Divine Mercy Sunday. Accept the ocean of
mercy that Jesus has for us.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
OR DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
We can look at Thomas as the “doubting Thomas,” the
one would not believe unless he could see, or we can look at
him as the “desirous Thomas,” the one who really wanted to see
the Lord. Thomas wanted the same experience as the other
Apostles and he wanted to touch the Lord Jesus in order that he
could know that Jesus was really alive. We need to have that
same desire to see Jesus and know that He is risen and is in our
lives.
A way that helps us to know Jesus in our lives is to do
what the early Christians did. They joined together in prayer
and the Lord revealed Himself to them in their communal
prayer life. As we gather in prayer during the celebration of the
Eucharist, we can expect that the Lord will reveal Himself to
us. As we share our time, talent, and treasure with one another,
as the early Christians did, the Lord will be with us also.
It is the ninth day since Good Friday when Jesus died
for our sins. It is Divine Mercy Sunday. Accept the ocean of
mercy that Jesus has for us.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Divine Mercy Sunday
Gospel Passage
John 20:19 When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” 22 When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” 24 But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.” 26 A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my
side. Do not doubt but believe.” 28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.” 30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. 31 But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
Questions for Discussion
1. One of the first things Jesus did after rising from the dead was to breathe on the
Apostles and give them the power to forgive sins, which is what priests do in the
sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). If this is one of the first things Jesus did after rising from the dead, how important do you think it is to Him?
2. Jesus said to the Apostles, “If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” How could anyone know which sins to retain and which to forgive unless somebody told them in confession? (Do you see
the importance of confessing your sins to the priest now?)
3. Jesus said to “doubting” Thomas, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet
believe.” We did not see Jesus rise from the dead with our own eyes. How can we
be blessed too?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
