Gospel Passage
Luke 2:16 So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the
child lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known what
had been told them about this child; 18 and all who heard it were amazed at
what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured all these words and
pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and
praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. 21
After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was
called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the
womb.
Questions for Discussion
1. Today is the feast day of Mary as Mother of God and Queen of Peace. Mary not only was Jesus’ mother, but from the Cross, Jesus gave her to us as our mother too. What type of son or daughter are you to so great a mother?
2. St. Luke says that “Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her
heart.” What do we do in prayer?
3. Why do you think Mary is called “Queen of Peace?” If Jesus is the “Prince of
Peace,” what would that make Mary? How can we help God bring peace to the
world?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Feast of The Holy Family
Gospel Passage
Luke 2:22 When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to
Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male shall be
designated as holy to the Lord”), 24 and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the
Lord, “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.” 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was
Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit
rested on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had
seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents
brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took him in his arms
and praised God, saying, 29 “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your
word; 30 for my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” 33 And the child’s father and
mother were amazed at what was being said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother
Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be
opposed 35 so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed — and a sword will pierce your own soul
too.” 36 There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great
age, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 then as a widow to the age of eightyfour.
She never left the temple but worshiped there with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 At that
moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the
redemption of Jerusalem. 39 When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they
returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 The child grew and became strong, filled with
wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Simeon had waited his whole life to see Jesus and was so happy when he
finally held Him. How hard do you look for Jesus? Do you really want to be
with Him in prayer like Simeon did?
2. Simeon said his eyes had seen God’s salvation. Jesus is Love and came to save us. That’s why He was born as a baby. What did he come to save us from?
3. This weekend is the feast of the Holy Family, of Jesus, Mary and
Joseph. Every family is called to be holy. What could you do
to make your family holier, more like the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and
Joseph?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, December 19, 2009
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 for Discussion
1. We celebrate on Christmas day the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem a little over
2000 years ago. What gift are you planning to give Jesus for his birthday?
2. When you think about Jesus and the faith, do you REJOICE like the angels
and proclaim the “good news of great joy” to others?
3. We celebrate on Christmas that God the Son became a little baby, taking on
all of our human weaknesses but not sin. Jesus is 100% God and 100% man. Do you
just sing, “O come, let us adore him!” or do you really come to
adore him in the Eucharist and in prayer? What is your favorite Christmas song
about Jesus? Why do you like it so much? Does it make you feel close to Him?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Family Bible Study - 4th Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Luke 1:39 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.”
Questions for Discussion
1. Both women, Mary and Elizabeth, were going to have babies. When Mary
spoke, Elizabeth’s baby moved inside her. When you receive Jesus in Holy
Communion, you also have Jesus within you. Will you bring Jesus to people
you know and help them to get very excited with love for Jesus too? How can
you do this?
2. St. Elizabeth says to Mary, “Blessed are you among women and blessed is
the fruit of your womb!” When do we say these words? Why is Mary blessed
among women?
3. St. Elizabeth says Mary is blessed because she believed that the words
spoken to her by the Lord would really happen. What words do you think
St. Elizabeth is talking about? (Hint: reread line 43)
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Feast of the Nativity of the LORD
FEAST OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD
No matter how many times that we hear the story of
Christmas, of the birth of Jesus Christ, it is still a wonderful
story and a recounting of God coming among us as man and
being born in a stable. The center of the story is Jesus.
There are, however, others who are part of that story. There
are Mary and Joseph, individuals of faith who trusted in God
and in His word to them. There are the shepherds who first
came to adore the newborn King. There are the angels who
sang the glories of God.
We are invited to be part of that story of Christmas.
We are asked to be people of a practicing faith, of
individuals who come to worship the King and of those who
sing God’s praises each day of our lives.
Isaiah tells us: “a child is born to us; a son is given
to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name Him
Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of
Peace.” What a gift that we have in this Jesus! He is what
we need! Accept this special gift of Jesus not only on this
day, but also each day of the year. Every day is Christmas
when Jesus is Lord!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
No matter how many times that we hear the story of
Christmas, of the birth of Jesus Christ, it is still a wonderful
story and a recounting of God coming among us as man and
being born in a stable. The center of the story is Jesus.
There are, however, others who are part of that story. There
are Mary and Joseph, individuals of faith who trusted in God
and in His word to them. There are the shepherds who first
came to adore the newborn King. There are the angels who
sang the glories of God.
We are invited to be part of that story of Christmas.
We are asked to be people of a practicing faith, of
individuals who come to worship the King and of those who
sing God’s praises each day of our lives.
Isaiah tells us: “a child is born to us; a son is given
to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name Him
Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of
Peace.” What a gift that we have in this Jesus! He is what
we need! Accept this special gift of Jesus not only on this
day, but also each day of the year. Every day is Christmas
when Jesus is Lord!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Family Bible Study - Third Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Luke 3:10 And the crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” 11 In reply he
said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and
whoever has food must do likewise.” 12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and
they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” 13 He said to them, “Collect no
more than the amount prescribed for you.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we,
what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats
or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.” 15 As the people were filled
with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether
he might be the Messiah, 16 John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you
with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie
the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His
winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat
into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” 18 So, with
many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.
Questions for Discussion:
1. John the Baptist says that Jesus will baptize us “with the Holy Spirit and
with fire.” What does this mean? When were/will you be baptized in this way?
What’s the fire? How is the baptism of John different from the baptism you
receive?
2. John’s whole life was to bring others to Jesus, who was the Messiah, the
Anointed One. In the Eucharist, we use his words to point to Jesus, “Behold,
the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world!” How do you bring
others to Jesus in your own life?
3. St. John tells the people to share, “Whoever has two coats must share
with anyone who has none; whoever has food must do likewise.” How much
do you share the gifts God has given you with others? (You can also share
your time and any talents you may have with others, not just “things”)
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Third Sunday of Advent
THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Different individuals asked the question of John the
Baptist: “What should we do?” Perhaps we ask that same
question. The answer is simple: “Follow the way of the
Lord.” If we have not followed the way of Jesus, what do
we do? Ask and receive the Lord’s forgiveness and begin
anew. There are only twelve more days to prepare for the
celebration of Jesus’ birth.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Different individuals asked the question of John the
Baptist: “What should we do?” Perhaps we ask that same
question. The answer is simple: “Follow the way of the
Lord.” If we have not followed the way of Jesus, what do
we do? Ask and receive the Lord’s forgiveness and begin
anew. There are only twelve more days to prepare for the
celebration of Jesus’ birth.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Family Bible Study - 2nd Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Luke 3:1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when
Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and
his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias
ruler of Abilene, 2 during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the
word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3 He went
into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance
for the forgiveness of sins, 4 as it is written in the book of the words of the
prophet Isaiah, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the
way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and
every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made
straight, and the rough ways made smooth; 6 and all flesh shall see the
salvation of God.’”
Questions for Discussion:
1. Advent is a time to get ready for the day Jesus is born. We would get
ready for any baby by cleaning up. Because Jesus is so special, we need to
clean our hearts before he comes. What would make our hearts “dirty”? How
can we clean them? Are there any things you have done that you are sorry
for and wish to “clean” before Jesus comes? The Church always gives us the figure of St. John the Baptist, who preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Why is repentance necessary to get ready to welcome the coming of the Lord Jesus?
2. St. John the Baptist said, “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his
paths.” Is there anything in the way of Jesus in coming to you this Advent?
3. How can you help others this Advent prepare for the coming of Jesus? How
can you make straight the paths of Jesus to them? How can you help them get things out of the way for Jesus to come into their hearts and homes?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Family Bible Study - First Sunday of Advent
Gospel Passage
Luke 21:25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on
the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the
waves. 26 People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming
upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they
will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. 28
Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads,
because your redemption is drawing near.” 34 “Be on guard so that your
hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the
worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, 35 like a trap. For
it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Be alert at
all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things
that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. Just like we have the four seasons (winter, spring, summer, and fall), the
church has “seasons.” We are entering into the church’s season of Advent.
Advent means “coming.” Who is coming that we are getting ready for? When
is that person coming?
2. Jesus talks about his second coming when he says, “they will see the Son of
Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.” How are you preparing
yourself for this coming, so that it won’t “catch you unexpectedly”?
3. Jesus tells us to “be ready at all times.” We’re called to be watching for Him, to be alert to Him, to His voice, to His action, especially in the sacraments. How much do you pay attention at Mass? What can you do to become more alert?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Sunday Gospel Message - Christ the King
FEAST OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THE KING
There is a saying in Theology: "The Church prays what she believes." We pray to God the Father in the Preface for the Feast of Christ the King. "You annointed Jesus Christ, Your only Son, with the oil of gladness, as the eternal Priest and universal King. As Priest He offered His life on the altar of the Cross and redeemed the human race as this one perfect sacrifice of peace. As King He claims dominion over all creation that He may present to You, His almighty Father, an eternal and universal kingdom: a kingdom of truth and life, a kingdom of holiness and grace, a kingdom of justice, love, and peace."
As we pray today, so we believe that Jesus showed what kind of King He was by dying on the Cross. The Kingdom that He gives to the Father embraces all and brings holiness and salvation to all.
used with permission = Msgr. Bob Lawrence
There is a saying in Theology: "The Church prays what she believes." We pray to God the Father in the Preface for the Feast of Christ the King. "You annointed Jesus Christ, Your only Son, with the oil of gladness, as the eternal Priest and universal King. As Priest He offered His life on the altar of the Cross and redeemed the human race as this one perfect sacrifice of peace. As King He claims dominion over all creation that He may present to You, His almighty Father, an eternal and universal kingdom: a kingdom of truth and life, a kingdom of holiness and grace, a kingdom of justice, love, and peace."
As we pray today, so we believe that Jesus showed what kind of King He was by dying on the Cross. The Kingdom that He gives to the Father embraces all and brings holiness and salvation to all.
used with permission = Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Christ the King
Gospel Passage
John 18:33 Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus,
and asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Do
you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?” 35 Pilate
replied, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have
handed you over to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My
kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my
followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews.
But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” 37 Pilate asked him, “So you are
a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and
for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to
the truth listens to my voice.”
Questions
1. We celebrate the feast of Christ the King. The whole point of life is to enter
into His Kingdom. How do we enter into His Kingdom?
2. The Son of God took flesh and was born of the Blessed Virgin Mary “in
order to testify to the truth about God the Father.” What do you think the most important truth is that Jesus came to testify to?
3. Jesus says, “Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” How
hard do you try to listen carefully to Jesus’ voice everyday? How well do you
do those things that Jesus asks — in the readings of the Bible, in prayer —
every day? How well do you put what Jesus says into practice?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 18:33 Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus,
and asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Do
you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?” 35 Pilate
replied, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have
handed you over to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My
kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my
followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews.
But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” 37 Pilate asked him, “So you are
a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and
for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to
the truth listens to my voice.”
Questions
1. We celebrate the feast of Christ the King. The whole point of life is to enter
into His Kingdom. How do we enter into His Kingdom?
2. The Son of God took flesh and was born of the Blessed Virgin Mary “in
order to testify to the truth about God the Father.” What do you think the most important truth is that Jesus came to testify to?
3. Jesus says, “Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” How
hard do you try to listen carefully to Jesus’ voice everyday? How well do you
do those things that Jesus asks — in the readings of the Bible, in prayer —
every day? How well do you put what Jesus says into practice?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Go Cooking, Moms - Saturday Tip!
Add a heaping teaspoon of salt to the water when hardboiling eggs to prevent the shells from cracking.
Sunday Gospel Message - Sunday, 11/15/09 - Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
As we come near to the end of the liturgical year and
prepare for Advent, the Church asks us to focus on the end
of our lives and on the end of time. It is a reminder that we
will reign with God so we need now to live our lives aware
that we are destined to live with the Lord Jesus. Time has an
end; eternity does not. Jesus reminds us that we do not
know the day or the hour when times ceases and eternity
begins, so we need to be ready each day.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
As we come near to the end of the liturgical year and
prepare for Advent, the Church asks us to focus on the end
of our lives and on the end of time. It is a reminder that we
will reign with God so we need now to live our lives aware
that we are destined to live with the Lord Jesus. Time has an
end; eternity does not. Jesus reminds us that we do not
know the day or the hour when times ceases and eternity
begins, so we need to be ready each day.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Sunday, 11/15/09 - Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 13:24 “But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be
darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be
falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then
they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory.
27 Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds,
from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. 28 “From the fig tree learn
its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you
know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things taking
place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly I tell you, this
generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 31
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 32
“But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor
the Son, but only the Father.
Questions for Discussion:
1. 1. Jesus says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass
away.” His words are eternal, they last forever. Do you spend time daily listening to the words of Jesus and following Him?
2. Jesus says that only the Father in heaven knows the “day or the hour” of
the end of the world. Jesus said that not even He knew exactly when it would
take place. If even Jesus didn’t know, can any earthly person know? What should your response be to such claims?
3. Since we do not know the day or the hour, it could come anytime.
What should you do to be ready? What can you do each day to prepare yourself for Heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 13:24 “But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be
darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be
falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then
they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory.
27 Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds,
from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. 28 “From the fig tree learn
its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you
know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things taking
place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly I tell you, this
generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 31
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 32
“But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor
the Son, but only the Father.
Questions for Discussion:
1. 1. Jesus says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass
away.” His words are eternal, they last forever. Do you spend time daily listening to the words of Jesus and following Him?
2. Jesus says that only the Father in heaven knows the “day or the hour” of
the end of the world. Jesus said that not even He knew exactly when it would
take place. If even Jesus didn’t know, can any earthly person know? What should your response be to such claims?
3. Since we do not know the day or the hour, it could come anytime.
What should you do to be ready? What can you do each day to prepare yourself for Heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Go Cooking, Moms - Saturday Tip!
When hosting a holiday get-together or party, it's not necessary to have more than 4 appetizers. Serving two hot and two cold ones should be plenty to satisfy everyone.
Family Bible Study - Sunday, November 8th, 2009 - 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 12:38 As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk
around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39
and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets!
40 They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long
prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” 41 He sat down
opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the
treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 A poor widow came and
put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 43 Then he called
his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in
more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. 44 For all of them
have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put
in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. Who gives more: the person who has only one penny and gives it away to
help someone else? – or a person who has a million dollars and gives one
hundred dollars to the poor? Jesus says the person who gave away ALL of his
money to the poor and has none left.
2. How much money — of your allowance, or gifts, or piggy bank money —
do you think you could give as a young person to build up God’s church?
What do you think would be a generous amount to give away and why?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 12:38 As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk
around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39
and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets!
40 They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long
prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” 41 He sat down
opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the
treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 A poor widow came and
put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 43 Then he called
his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in
more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. 44 For all of them
have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put
in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. Who gives more: the person who has only one penny and gives it away to
help someone else? – or a person who has a million dollars and gives one
hundred dollars to the poor? Jesus says the person who gave away ALL of his
money to the poor and has none left.
2. How much money — of your allowance, or gifts, or piggy bank money —
do you think you could give as a young person to build up God’s church?
What do you think would be a generous amount to give away and why?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Sunday, November 8th, 2009 - Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
When we give and share as the Lord requests of us, the Lord takes care of us. The widow in Zarephath used up all her food to feed Elijah. Her jar of flour and her jug of oil did not run out. Her trust in God was rewarded. The poor widow in the Gospel was rewarded by Jesus for giving of her poverty. Trusting in God and trusting God is rewarded by God.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
When we give and share as the Lord requests of us, the Lord takes care of us. The widow in Zarephath used up all her food to feed Elijah. Her jar of flour and her jug of oil did not run out. Her trust in God was rewarded. The poor widow in the Gospel was rewarded by Jesus for giving of her poverty. Trusting in God and trusting God is rewarded by God.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Go Cooking Moms - Saturday Tip!
Go Cooking Moms!
Saturday Tip - To prevent a quiche or pumpkin pie crust from becoming soggy, partially bake the crust in a 425 degree oven for about 15 minutes, then brush with beaten egg and bake for 2 more minutes. Then remove from oven, pour the filling into the shell and proceed with directions as usual.
Family Bible Study - Sunday, November 1st, 2009 - Feast of All Saints
Gospel Passage
Matt. 5:1 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat
down, his disciples came to him. 2 Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. 8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Do you know why God made you and put you on earth? It is so that you
can become a saint? What is a saint?
2. How do these Beatitudes (special teachings of Jesus about what will make us
“blessed” or truly happy) which we read in the Gospel story help us to
become holy?
3. Many people in the world say that you have to be rich, powerful,
or beautiful to be happy. Jesus says those things don’t matter to God
and we shouldn’t care about them either. Jesus says, instead, to be poor in spirit, meek and merciful, and pure of heart. What do you think is right and why?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Matt. 5:1 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat
down, his disciples came to him. 2 Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. 8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Do you know why God made you and put you on earth? It is so that you
can become a saint? What is a saint?
2. How do these Beatitudes (special teachings of Jesus about what will make us
“blessed” or truly happy) which we read in the Gospel story help us to
become holy?
3. Many people in the world say that you have to be rich, powerful,
or beautiful to be happy. Jesus says those things don’t matter to God
and we shouldn’t care about them either. Jesus says, instead, to be poor in spirit, meek and merciful, and pure of heart. What do you think is right and why?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Gospel Message - Feast of All Souls
FEAST OF ALL SOULS
Monday is the feast of All Souls. On this day and
throughout this entire month, we remember those souls in
purgatory that they may be released and come into the
kingdom of heaven.
Our display in the front of the church will remind us
of the saints and souls in purgatory.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Monday is the feast of All Souls. On this day and
throughout this entire month, we remember those souls in
purgatory that they may be released and come into the
kingdom of heaven.
Our display in the front of the church will remind us
of the saints and souls in purgatory.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Sunday Gospel Message - Feast of All Saints
FEAST OF ALL SAINTS
Today is the feast of All Saints. On this day, we
honor all the saints in heaven, especially the countless
uncanonized saints. These saints are members of our
families, our relatives, our friends, and our parishioners who
have gone before us marked with the sign of peace. We look
to what we have learned from them and we imitate the good
that we have seen in them.
Remember that, as we worship God at Mass, all the
saints are with us to give glory to God also. As we enter
church, let us be aware that all the saints and angels are there
as we join them in worshipping God.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Today is the feast of All Saints. On this day, we
honor all the saints in heaven, especially the countless
uncanonized saints. These saints are members of our
families, our relatives, our friends, and our parishioners who
have gone before us marked with the sign of peace. We look
to what we have learned from them and we imitate the good
that we have seen in them.
Remember that, as we worship God at Mass, all the
saints are with us to give glory to God also. As we enter
church, let us be aware that all the saints and angels are there
as we join them in worshipping God.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Monday, October 26, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Family Bible Study - October 25th, 2009 - 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 10:46 They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd
were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting
by the roadside. 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began
to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 Many
sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of
David, have mercy on me!” 49 Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.”
And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is
calling you.” 50 So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus.
51 Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind
man said to him, “My teacher, let me see again.” 52 Jesus said to him, “Go;
your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and
followed him on the way.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Bartimaeus cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” How often
do you pray to Jesus to be merciful to you, to forgive you your sins? What
ways can you pray more for Jesus’ mercy?
2. Bartimaeus asked Jesus to allow him to see, to cure his blindness.
Sometimes we need to be cured of spiritual blindness, which prevents our
seeing God and his will in the midst of daily events. Sometimes, like the blind man, we may not see what God wants us to see. In what situations do you
need God’s help to see things more clearly? Are there things you do not understand that you need God’s help to see?
3. After the blind man was healed by Jesus, he began to follow him. Any gift of the Lord should bring us to follow him more. What prayers has Jesus answered for you? Did you respond like Bartimaeus and thank Him by following His ways?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 10:46 They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd
were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting
by the roadside. 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began
to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 Many
sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of
David, have mercy on me!” 49 Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.”
And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is
calling you.” 50 So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus.
51 Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind
man said to him, “My teacher, let me see again.” 52 Jesus said to him, “Go;
your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and
followed him on the way.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Bartimaeus cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” How often
do you pray to Jesus to be merciful to you, to forgive you your sins? What
ways can you pray more for Jesus’ mercy?
2. Bartimaeus asked Jesus to allow him to see, to cure his blindness.
Sometimes we need to be cured of spiritual blindness, which prevents our
seeing God and his will in the midst of daily events. Sometimes, like the blind man, we may not see what God wants us to see. In what situations do you
need God’s help to see things more clearly? Are there things you do not understand that you need God’s help to see?
3. After the blind man was healed by Jesus, he began to follow him. Any gift of the Lord should bring us to follow him more. What prayers has Jesus answered for you? Did you respond like Bartimaeus and thank Him by following His ways?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - October 25th, 2009 - 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
"Master, I want to see." There are different kinds of blindness. We can be blind physically, spiritually, or morally. Today we ask the Lord to give us sight and insight that we may see Him, know what He is asking of us, and follow what lies before us. "Lord, I want to see You each day in my life; I want to be able to see how you are leading and guiding me; I want to see that You are at my side and walking with me." Three things I ask: "to see Thee more clearly, to love Thee more dearly, to follow Thee more nearly, day by day." (Godspell).
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
"Master, I want to see." There are different kinds of blindness. We can be blind physically, spiritually, or morally. Today we ask the Lord to give us sight and insight that we may see Him, know what He is asking of us, and follow what lies before us. "Lord, I want to see You each day in my life; I want to be able to see how you are leading and guiding me; I want to see that You are at my side and walking with me." Three things I ask: "to see Thee more clearly, to love Thee more dearly, to follow Thee more nearly, day by day." (Godspell).
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Family Bible Study - October 18th, 2009 - 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 10:35 James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him and said to
him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to
them, “What is it you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Grant us to
sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I
drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” 39 They replied,
“We are able.” Then Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink; and
with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; 40 but to sit at my
right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John. 42 So Jesus called them and said to them, “You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. 43 But it is not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wishes to be first among you
must be slave of all. 45 For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
Questions for discussion
1. Jesus wants us to help everyone we can first, then think of ourselves and our
wants last. That can mean we may have to give up some things and let others
have them. Are you willing to do that for God? What are some ways we can put this into action?
2. James and John thought they could ask Jesus for special places in Heaven.
Jesus said that God chooses who will have them. What do you think makes
God happy enough to give us special places in Heaven?
3. Jesus says that if we wish to be the greatest, we must be the servant of all, in
imitation of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve, do you try to serve too?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 10:35 James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him and said to
him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to
them, “What is it you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Grant us to
sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I
drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” 39 They replied,
“We are able.” Then Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink; and
with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; 40 but to sit at my
right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John. 42 So Jesus called them and said to them, “You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. 43 But it is not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wishes to be first among you
must be slave of all. 45 For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
Questions for discussion
1. Jesus wants us to help everyone we can first, then think of ourselves and our
wants last. That can mean we may have to give up some things and let others
have them. Are you willing to do that for God? What are some ways we can put this into action?
2. James and John thought they could ask Jesus for special places in Heaven.
Jesus said that God chooses who will have them. What do you think makes
God happy enough to give us special places in Heaven?
3. Jesus says that if we wish to be the greatest, we must be the servant of all, in
imitation of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve, do you try to serve too?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Family Bible Study - October 11, 2009 - 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 10:17 As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him,
and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 Jesus said
to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. 19 You know the
commandments: ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not
steal; You shall not bear false witness; You shall not defraud; Honor your father and
mother.’” 20 He said to him, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” 21
Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you
own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then
come, follow me.” 22 When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving,
for he had many possessions. 23 Then Jesus looked around and said to his disciples,
“How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” 24
And the disciples were perplexed at these words. But Jesus said to them again,
“Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to
go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of
God.” 26 They were greatly astounded and said to one another, “Then who can be
saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for
God; for God all things are possible.” 28 Peter began to say to him, “Look, we have
left everything and followed you.” 29 Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, there is no one
who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields, for my sake and for the sake of the good news, 30 who will not receive a hundredfold
now in this age — houses, brothers and sisters, mothers and children, and fields with
persecutions — and in the age to come eternal life.
Questions for discussion:
1. “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” The man asked Jesus this question, which is the most important question anyone of us can ask. How does Jesus answer that
question? Are you doing those things?
2. Jesus wants us to use everything we have to do good things for God and to bring
other people to know and to love God. How are you doing this?
3. The rich young man went away feeling very “sad” because he did not want to
make Jesus more special than his money. Is there anything in your life that is more
important to you than following Jesus all the way, 100%?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 10:17 As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him,
and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 Jesus said
to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. 19 You know the
commandments: ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not
steal; You shall not bear false witness; You shall not defraud; Honor your father and
mother.’” 20 He said to him, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” 21
Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you
own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then
come, follow me.” 22 When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving,
for he had many possessions. 23 Then Jesus looked around and said to his disciples,
“How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” 24
And the disciples were perplexed at these words. But Jesus said to them again,
“Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to
go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of
God.” 26 They were greatly astounded and said to one another, “Then who can be
saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for
God; for God all things are possible.” 28 Peter began to say to him, “Look, we have
left everything and followed you.” 29 Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, there is no one
who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields, for my sake and for the sake of the good news, 30 who will not receive a hundredfold
now in this age — houses, brothers and sisters, mothers and children, and fields with
persecutions — and in the age to come eternal life.
Questions for discussion:
1. “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” The man asked Jesus this question, which is the most important question anyone of us can ask. How does Jesus answer that
question? Are you doing those things?
2. Jesus wants us to use everything we have to do good things for God and to bring
other people to know and to love God. How are you doing this?
3. The rich young man went away feeling very “sad” because he did not want to
make Jesus more special than his money. Is there anything in your life that is more
important to you than following Jesus all the way, 100%?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - October 11th, 2009 - 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Wisdom is a gift that enables us to know what to do in all situations of our lives. We pray for that wisdom that enables us to use riches, property, and all other gifts for the good of others and according to the plan of God.
Perhaps we say that something is impossible and, it probably is, if we do it ourselves. Jesus reminds us that, with Him, all things are possible. By trusting in God, we can expect supernatural power to be with us in our lives. In God we trust! In God we believe! In God we can do it!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Wisdom is a gift that enables us to know what to do in all situations of our lives. We pray for that wisdom that enables us to use riches, property, and all other gifts for the good of others and according to the plan of God.
Perhaps we say that something is impossible and, it probably is, if we do it ourselves. Jesus reminds us that, with Him, all things are possible. By trusting in God, we can expect supernatural power to be with us in our lives. In God we trust! In God we believe! In God we can do it!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, October 4th, 2009 - 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 10:2 Some Pharisees came, and to test him they asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” 3 He answered them, “What did Moses command you?” 4 They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her.” 5 But Jesus said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart he wrote this commandment for you. 6 But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ 7 ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, 8 and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” 10 Then in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. 11 He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; 12 and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.” 13 People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. 14 But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 15 Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.
Questions for discussion:
1. Marriage is very special. Jesus said if two people get married they become “one flesh”. Marriage is a sacrament, which means the point of marriage is to help bring us closer to God, closer in God to others, and eventually to heaven. Marriage in God’s eyes is supposed to make people more holy. What types of qualities should one be aware of in a future spouse?
2. How can children follow Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 10:2 Some Pharisees came, and to test him they asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” 3 He answered them, “What did Moses command you?” 4 They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her.” 5 But Jesus said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart he wrote this commandment for you. 6 But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ 7 ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, 8 and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” 10 Then in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. 11 He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; 12 and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.” 13 People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. 14 But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 15 Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.
Questions for discussion:
1. Marriage is very special. Jesus said if two people get married they become “one flesh”. Marriage is a sacrament, which means the point of marriage is to help bring us closer to God, closer in God to others, and eventually to heaven. Marriage in God’s eyes is supposed to make people more holy. What types of qualities should one be aware of in a future spouse?
2. How can children follow Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - October 4th, 2009 - 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
God created man and woman and made them equal.
God placed man and woman in the Garden of Paradise
because he wanted them to be happy. He gave man and
woman to each other so that they might bring happiness to
each other. He told them that they were to become one in
mind, one in heart, and one in affections. This is the plan of
God for marriage. Husband and wife are to be one in all
ways and to bring happiness to each other. This is what God
created for couple. Adam and Eve walked and talked with
God in the cool of the evening. God wants to be that close
to all married couples.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
God created man and woman and made them equal.
God placed man and woman in the Garden of Paradise
because he wanted them to be happy. He gave man and
woman to each other so that they might bring happiness to
each other. He told them that they were to become one in
mind, one in heart, and one in affections. This is the plan of
God for marriage. Husband and wife are to be one in all
ways and to bring happiness to each other. This is what God
created for couple. Adam and Eve walked and talked with
God in the cool of the evening. God wants to be that close
to all married couples.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, Sept. 27th, 2009 - 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 9:38 John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your
name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.” 39 But Jesus said,
“Do not stop him; for no one who does a deed of power in my name will be able soon
afterward to speak evil of me. 40 Whoever is not against us is for us. 41 For truly I
tell you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of
Christ will by no means lose the reward. 42 “If any of you put a stumbling block
before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea. 43 If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life maimed than to have two hands and to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire. 44 45 And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet and to be thrown into hell., 46 47 And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out; it is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into hell, 48 where their worm never dies, and the fire is never quenched.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Sometimes we get angry because someone else has something we wish we
could have. Jesus’ friends got angry because some other people were doing
God’s work and they thought they were the only ones that should do it. What
should we think about people who do good deeds for God? (Hint: what did
Jesus say?)
2. Jesus says that whoever gives a cup of water to drink to a Christian will not
lose his reward. What is the reward that Jesus most wants to give to those who
do good in his name?
3. Jesus gets very graphic about what we need to do in approach to sin: we
need to cut it out of our lives. What are the various things you need to do to cut sin out of your life?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 9:38 John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your
name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.” 39 But Jesus said,
“Do not stop him; for no one who does a deed of power in my name will be able soon
afterward to speak evil of me. 40 Whoever is not against us is for us. 41 For truly I
tell you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of
Christ will by no means lose the reward. 42 “If any of you put a stumbling block
before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea. 43 If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life maimed than to have two hands and to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire. 44 45 And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet and to be thrown into hell., 46 47 And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out; it is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into hell, 48 where their worm never dies, and the fire is never quenched.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Sometimes we get angry because someone else has something we wish we
could have. Jesus’ friends got angry because some other people were doing
God’s work and they thought they were the only ones that should do it. What
should we think about people who do good deeds for God? (Hint: what did
Jesus say?)
2. Jesus says that whoever gives a cup of water to drink to a Christian will not
lose his reward. What is the reward that Jesus most wants to give to those who
do good in his name?
3. Jesus gets very graphic about what we need to do in approach to sin: we
need to cut it out of our lives. What are the various things you need to do to cut sin out of your life?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Sunday, Sept. 27th, 2009 - Twenty - Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus so identified Himself with His people that He
tells us what we do to or for others, we do to or for Him.
Whether we prophesy (speak God’s word) or cast out
demons, we do it all for and with and in Jesus. We are
called to be faithful to Jesus and not give scandal to the
Lord’s people. Jesus reminds us that all our faculties are to
be use for His glory and honor and for the building up of His
body on earth, the Church.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus so identified Himself with His people that He
tells us what we do to or for others, we do to or for Him.
Whether we prophesy (speak God’s word) or cast out
demons, we do it all for and with and in Jesus. We are
called to be faithful to Jesus and not give scandal to the
Lord’s people. Jesus reminds us that all our faculties are to
be use for His glory and honor and for the building up of His
body on earth, the Church.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, September 20th, 2009 - Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
Mark 9:30 They went on from there and passed through Galilee. He did not want
anyone to know it; 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of
Man is to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and three days after
being killed, he will rise again.” 32 But they did not understand what he was saying
and were afraid to ask him. 33 Then they came to Capernaum; and when he was in
the house he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” 34 But they
were silent, for on the way they had argued with one another who was the greatest.
35 He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “Whoever wants to be first must
be last of all and servant of all.” 36 Then he took a little child and put it among them; and taking it in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one
who sent me.”
Questions for Discussion:
1) “They did not understand what Jesus was saying and were afraid to ask Him.”
What should we do if we don’t understand what Jesus is asking of us? To whom should we go to?
2) To be great in God’s eyes, we have to be the servant of all, just like Jesus showed He was our servant of love by washing the feet of the apostles and telling us to do the same. What service can you do this week to become greater in God’s eyes?
3) Jesus loves children and wants us to welcome children in His name. Welcoming children is a pure act of love since you do not expect anything from them in return for welcoming them. Has anyone ever welcomed you in this way that Jesus asks His disciples to do so? Have you ever welcomed someone else in this way?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 9:30 They went on from there and passed through Galilee. He did not want
anyone to know it; 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of
Man is to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and three days after
being killed, he will rise again.” 32 But they did not understand what he was saying
and were afraid to ask him. 33 Then they came to Capernaum; and when he was in
the house he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” 34 But they
were silent, for on the way they had argued with one another who was the greatest.
35 He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “Whoever wants to be first must
be last of all and servant of all.” 36 Then he took a little child and put it among them; and taking it in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one
who sent me.”
Questions for Discussion:
1) “They did not understand what Jesus was saying and were afraid to ask Him.”
What should we do if we don’t understand what Jesus is asking of us? To whom should we go to?
2) To be great in God’s eyes, we have to be the servant of all, just like Jesus showed He was our servant of love by washing the feet of the apostles and telling us to do the same. What service can you do this week to become greater in God’s eyes?
3) Jesus loves children and wants us to welcome children in His name. Welcoming children is a pure act of love since you do not expect anything from them in return for welcoming them. Has anyone ever welcomed you in this way that Jesus asks His disciples to do so? Have you ever welcomed someone else in this way?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - September 20th, 2009 - Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
The Book of Wisdom speaks about the wicked
trying to destroy the righteous one. The evil ones even
recognized the fact that God would take care of the good
person. The Church has looked at this as what evil has done
to Jesus and His Church. The Lord tells us that the gates of
hell would not prevail against the Church. Jesus reminds us
today that He will suffer for us and the way to be great in the
Kingdom of God is to be the servant of all.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
The Book of Wisdom speaks about the wicked
trying to destroy the righteous one. The evil ones even
recognized the fact that God would take care of the good
person. The Church has looked at this as what evil has done
to Jesus and His Church. The Lord tells us that the gates of
hell would not prevail against the Church. Jesus reminds us
today that He will suffer for us and the way to be great in the
Kingdom of God is to be the servant of all.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, September 13th, 2009 - 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Reading:
Mark 8:27 Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and
on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they
answered him, “John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the
prophets.” 29 He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him,
“You are the Messiah.” 30 And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about
him. 31 Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great
suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be
killed, and after three days rise again. 32 He said all this quite openly. And Peter
took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and looking at his disciples,
he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not
on divine things but on human things.” 34 He called the crowd with his disciples,
and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves
and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For those who want to save their life will
lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it.
Questions for discussion:
1. A lot of people say that Jesus was just a good or famous man of God, like
John the Baptist, Elijah or the other prophets. Who do you say that Jesus is?
2. Peter tried to stop Jesus from suffering, and Jesus said he was behaving like
the devil, because at that moment Peter was trying to stop Jesus from fulfilling
His mission, as the devil always tries to do. What is Jesus’ mission? How can
we help Him to accomplish it?
3. Jesus says that to be His disciples, His followers, we need to do three
things. What are they? (Hint: see verse 34). Do you try to do all three?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 8:27 Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and
on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they
answered him, “John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the
prophets.” 29 He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him,
“You are the Messiah.” 30 And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about
him. 31 Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great
suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be
killed, and after three days rise again. 32 He said all this quite openly. And Peter
took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and looking at his disciples,
he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not
on divine things but on human things.” 34 He called the crowd with his disciples,
and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves
and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For those who want to save their life will
lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it.
Questions for discussion:
1. A lot of people say that Jesus was just a good or famous man of God, like
John the Baptist, Elijah or the other prophets. Who do you say that Jesus is?
2. Peter tried to stop Jesus from suffering, and Jesus said he was behaving like
the devil, because at that moment Peter was trying to stop Jesus from fulfilling
His mission, as the devil always tries to do. What is Jesus’ mission? How can
we help Him to accomplish it?
3. Jesus says that to be His disciples, His followers, we need to do three
things. What are they? (Hint: see verse 34). Do you try to do all three?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Family Bible Study - September 6th, 2009 - 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Reading:
Mark 7:31 Then he returned from the region of Tyre, and went by way of Sidon
towards the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. 32 They brought to him a
deaf man who had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand
on him. 33 He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers
into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. 34 Then looking up to heaven, he
sighed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” 35 And immediately his
ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. 36 Then Jesus
ordered them to tell no one; but the more he ordered them, the more zealously they
proclaimed it. 37 They were astounded beyond measure, saying, “He has done
everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears and touched his tongue, looked
toward his Father, and said, “Ephphatha,” “be opened.” Do you know when
Jesus did this to you? (Hint: it happens during the first sacrament of initiation
you received).
2. Jesus told them not to tell anyone about the miracle — he didn’t want them
looking at him just as a miracle worker, because he wanted them to listen to
His words — and yet they proclaimed it everywhere. Jesus, on the other hand,
has told us to spread the good news, and so few of us talk about him. Why do
you think people are too shy to talk about Jesus to everyone?
3. “He has done everything well,” they said about Jesus. Name three things
Jesus has done well for you in your life.
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 7:31 Then he returned from the region of Tyre, and went by way of Sidon
towards the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. 32 They brought to him a
deaf man who had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand
on him. 33 He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers
into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. 34 Then looking up to heaven, he
sighed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” 35 And immediately his
ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. 36 Then Jesus
ordered them to tell no one; but the more he ordered them, the more zealously they
proclaimed it. 37 They were astounded beyond measure, saying, “He has done
everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”
Questions for discussion:
1. Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears and touched his tongue, looked
toward his Father, and said, “Ephphatha,” “be opened.” Do you know when
Jesus did this to you? (Hint: it happens during the first sacrament of initiation
you received).
2. Jesus told them not to tell anyone about the miracle — he didn’t want them
looking at him just as a miracle worker, because he wanted them to listen to
His words — and yet they proclaimed it everywhere. Jesus, on the other hand,
has told us to spread the good news, and so few of us talk about him. Why do
you think people are too shy to talk about Jesus to everyone?
3. “He has done everything well,” they said about Jesus. Name three things
Jesus has done well for you in your life.
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - September 6, 2009 - 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
When a child is baptized, the minister of the
Sacrament touches the ears and mouth of the child to
symbolize that the child’s ears may always be open to
receive God’s word and that the child’s mouth may be ready
to proclaim God’s word. When the Lord comes into our
lives, His loving hands touch our spiritual senses. We begin
to see the Lord and His way; we hear Him speaking to us
and guiding us; we walk in His ways; we are able to speak
His word. Our God comes to save us and to make us strong
in our spiritual life.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
When a child is baptized, the minister of the
Sacrament touches the ears and mouth of the child to
symbolize that the child’s ears may always be open to
receive God’s word and that the child’s mouth may be ready
to proclaim God’s word. When the Lord comes into our
lives, His loving hands touch our spiritual senses. We begin
to see the Lord and His way; we hear Him speaking to us
and guiding us; we walk in His ways; we are able to speak
His word. Our God comes to save us and to make us strong
in our spiritual life.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, August 28, 2009
Sunday Gospel Message - 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
It is nice when we do nice things. It is great for
others and for us when we do them out of a great love for
God and others. The sacred word today reminds us to do
everything from the heart. In our human language, the heart
is the source of our love. When we keep the commandments
or when we pray, we need to put our hearts into it. Also
good and evil come from the heart. We need to put our
hearts in the heart of Jesus in order that good may emanate
from our hearts.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
It is nice when we do nice things. It is great for
others and for us when we do them out of a great love for
God and others. The sacred word today reminds us to do
everything from the heart. In our human language, the heart
is the source of our love. When we keep the commandments
or when we pray, we need to put our hearts into it. Also
good and evil come from the heart. We need to put our
hearts in the heart of Jesus in order that good may emanate
from our hearts.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage:
Mark 7:1 Now when the Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from
Jerusalem gathered around him, 2 they noticed that some of his disciples were
eating with defiled hands, that is, without washing them. 3 (For the Pharisees, and
all the Jews, do not eat unless they thoroughly wash their hands, thus observing the
tradition of the elders; 4 and they do not eat anything from the market unless they
wash it; and there are also many other traditions that they observe, the washing of
cups, pots, and bronze kettles.) 5 So the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why
do your disciples not live according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 He said to them, “Isaiah prophesied rightly about you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; 7 in vain do they worship me, teaching human precepts as doctrines.’ 8 You abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition.” 14 Then he called the crowd again and said to them, “Listen to me, all of you, and understand: 15 there is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out are what defile.” 21 For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil intentions come: fornication, theft, murder, 22 adultery, avarice, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, folly. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
Question for Discussion:
1) Jesus says that having a clean heart is more important than clean hands. Jesus gives us a list of sins that make a person's heart and soul dirty. How
can you clean your heart? What sacrament did Jesus give us to help you do
this?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 7:1 Now when the Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from
Jerusalem gathered around him, 2 they noticed that some of his disciples were
eating with defiled hands, that is, without washing them. 3 (For the Pharisees, and
all the Jews, do not eat unless they thoroughly wash their hands, thus observing the
tradition of the elders; 4 and they do not eat anything from the market unless they
wash it; and there are also many other traditions that they observe, the washing of
cups, pots, and bronze kettles.) 5 So the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why
do your disciples not live according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 He said to them, “Isaiah prophesied rightly about you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; 7 in vain do they worship me, teaching human precepts as doctrines.’ 8 You abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition.” 14 Then he called the crowd again and said to them, “Listen to me, all of you, and understand: 15 there is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out are what defile.” 21 For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil intentions come: fornication, theft, murder, 22 adultery, avarice, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, folly. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
Question for Discussion:
1) Jesus says that having a clean heart is more important than clean hands. Jesus gives us a list of sins that make a person's heart and soul dirty. How
can you clean your heart? What sacrament did Jesus give us to help you do
this?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Sunday Gospel Message - 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
To follow Jesus demands a decision in our lives.
Are we with Him or against Him? It is not a matter of our
cafeteria approach to His teachings. If we accept Him, then
we accept all His teachings. Joshua says today: “decide
today whom you will serve. ... As for me and my household,
we will serve the Lord.” Peter responds to the Lord:
“Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of
eternal life.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
To follow Jesus demands a decision in our lives.
Are we with Him or against Him? It is not a matter of our
cafeteria approach to His teachings. If we accept Him, then
we accept all His teachings. Joshua says today: “decide
today whom you will serve. ... As for me and my household,
we will serve the Lord.” Peter responds to the Lord:
“Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of
eternal life.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Friday, August 21, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, August 23rd, 2009 - 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
John 6:60 When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?” 61 But Jesus, being aware that his disciples were complaining about it, said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the spirit that gives life; the flesh is useless. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64 But among you there are some who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the first who were the ones that did not believe, and who was the one that would betray him. 65 And he said, “For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted by the Father.” 66 Because of this many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him. 67 So Jesus asked the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?” 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the
words of eternal life. 69 We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy
One of God.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. Many of the disciples didn’t accept Jesus’ teachings on the Eucharist and went away, but Jesus didn’t change the teaching on the Eucharist to satisfy them. They ended up abandoning God’s own Son. Have you known anyone who has abandoned Jesus
because they don’t want to accept one of his teachings?
2. It probably was not easy for the twelve apostles to believe in Jesus’ teaching on the reality of eating His flesh and blood in the Eucharist, but Peter said, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Do you think Peter sets a good example for us to follow whenever we have questions about the faith? To whom can
you go to get answers that come from God?
3. In order to receive the Eucharist worthily, you have to make sure you have not
committed any serious (mortal) sins since your last confession, and if you have, to go to confession BEFORE receiving Holy Communion. You first must go to Jesus in the
sacrament of confession before you go to Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist. Do
you live by this teaching of the Church?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 6:60 When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?” 61 But Jesus, being aware that his disciples were complaining about it, said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the spirit that gives life; the flesh is useless. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64 But among you there are some who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the first who were the ones that did not believe, and who was the one that would betray him. 65 And he said, “For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted by the Father.” 66 Because of this many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him. 67 So Jesus asked the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?” 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the
words of eternal life. 69 We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy
One of God.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. Many of the disciples didn’t accept Jesus’ teachings on the Eucharist and went away, but Jesus didn’t change the teaching on the Eucharist to satisfy them. They ended up abandoning God’s own Son. Have you known anyone who has abandoned Jesus
because they don’t want to accept one of his teachings?
2. It probably was not easy for the twelve apostles to believe in Jesus’ teaching on the reality of eating His flesh and blood in the Eucharist, but Peter said, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Do you think Peter sets a good example for us to follow whenever we have questions about the faith? To whom can
you go to get answers that come from God?
3. In order to receive the Eucharist worthily, you have to make sure you have not
committed any serious (mortal) sins since your last confession, and if you have, to go to confession BEFORE receiving Holy Communion. You first must go to Jesus in the
sacrament of confession before you go to Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist. Do
you live by this teaching of the Church?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Monday, August 17, 2009
A Prayer Request...
Please pray with us as we pray for the repose of soul for Ryan Barrett and please keep his family in your prayers.
Eternal rest grant unto Ryan, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
If we die with the Lord, we shall live with the Lord.
If we endure with the Lord, we shall reign with the Lord.
In Christ all our sorrow, in Christ all our joy.
In Him hope of glory, in Him all our love.
In Christ our redemption, in Christ all our grace.
In Him our salvation, in Him all our peace.
Lucien Deiss Copyright 1965 WLP
Eternal rest grant unto Ryan, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
If we die with the Lord, we shall live with the Lord.
If we endure with the Lord, we shall reign with the Lord.
In Christ all our sorrow, in Christ all our joy.
In Him hope of glory, in Him all our love.
In Christ our redemption, in Christ all our grace.
In Him our salvation, in Him all our peace.
Lucien Deiss Copyright 1965 WLP
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, August 16th, 2009 - Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
John 6:51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats
of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the
world is my flesh.” 52 The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying,
“How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 53 So Jesus said to them, “Very
truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his
blood, you have no life in you. 54 Those who eat my flesh and drink my
blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day; 55 for my
flesh is true food and my blood is true drink. 56 Those who eat my flesh and
drink my blood abide in me, and I in them. 57 Just as the living Father sent
me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever eats me will live because of
me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like that which
your ancestors ate, and they died. But the one who eats this bread will live
forever.”
Questions for Discussion:
1) Jesus says that the “bread” which he will give for the life of the world is His
flesh. Think about what happens when Jesus says through the priest at Mass the words, “This is my body given for you,” “This is the cup of my blood,... shed for you...."
2) Jesus says that if we eat His flesh, we will live forever. What does it mean to “live because of” Jesus whom we receive in Holy Communion?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 6:51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats
of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the
world is my flesh.” 52 The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying,
“How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 53 So Jesus said to them, “Very
truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his
blood, you have no life in you. 54 Those who eat my flesh and drink my
blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day; 55 for my
flesh is true food and my blood is true drink. 56 Those who eat my flesh and
drink my blood abide in me, and I in them. 57 Just as the living Father sent
me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever eats me will live because of
me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like that which
your ancestors ate, and they died. But the one who eats this bread will live
forever.”
Questions for Discussion:
1) Jesus says that the “bread” which he will give for the life of the world is His
flesh. Think about what happens when Jesus says through the priest at Mass the words, “This is my body given for you,” “This is the cup of my blood,... shed for you...."
2) Jesus says that if we eat His flesh, we will live forever. What does it mean to “live because of” Jesus whom we receive in Holy Communion?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Family Bible Study - The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Saturday, August 15th, 2009
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? How did Our Lady's body and soul go up to Heaven?
2. What is Mary doing in Heaven right now? How does she help us?
3. What does Mary’s Assumption into Heaven mean for us?
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? How did Our Lady's body and soul go up to Heaven?
2. What is Mary doing in Heaven right now? How does she help us?
3. What does Mary’s Assumption into Heaven mean for us?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Sunday, August 16th, 2009 - Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
TWENTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus is the bread of life. When Jesus made the
promise of the Eucharist, there was no doubt in the minds of
His listeners what He meant. He was going to give us His
flesh to eat and His blood to drink. This was to be real food
and real drink. The Eucharist was to be the food for the
journey that would lead to a never-ending life of happiness.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus is the bread of life. When Jesus made the
promise of the Eucharist, there was no doubt in the minds of
His listeners what He meant. He was going to give us His
flesh to eat and His blood to drink. This was to be real food
and real drink. The Eucharist was to be the food for the
journey that would lead to a never-ending life of happiness.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Go Cooking, Moms! - Easy Pizza Bake
This is a great dinner for busy weeknights. It's quick to prepare, very easy to make, and you can mix and match ingredients to what you have available. Whatever you use, you would just want to make sure to drain everything well so it's not too moist.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
2lbs. Ground Turkey
1 C. Onion
1 C. Green Pepper
2 C. Spaghetti Sauce
1 tsp. Basil
1 tsp. Garlic Powder
1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
20 slices Pepperoni
3 C. shredded Mozzarella Cheese
For the Crust:
2 Eggs
1 C. Skim Milk
2 T. Olive Oil
1 1/4 C. Flour
1 C. Grated Parmesan or Romano Cheese
Directions:
Preheat over to 400 degrees. Saute ground turkey until cooked thouroughly, drain all liquid, and then set aside to drain even more. Then saute the vegetables until tender and add the turkey back into the pan. Add sauce and spices and cook together until heated through and mixed well. Add into a greased 9 x 13 baking dish and place the pepperoni slices on top and sprinkle a layer of mozzarella over the pepperoni.
Next, make the crust. Beat eggs in a large bowl until frothy. Add the milk and oil and beat together. Slowly add the flour until everything is combined well.
Smooth the crust mixture over the pizza filling and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Bake uncovered about 20 - 25 minutes until done and let rest for about 15 minutes before serving.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
2lbs. Ground Turkey
1 C. Onion
1 C. Green Pepper
2 C. Spaghetti Sauce
1 tsp. Basil
1 tsp. Garlic Powder
1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
20 slices Pepperoni
3 C. shredded Mozzarella Cheese
For the Crust:
2 Eggs
1 C. Skim Milk
2 T. Olive Oil
1 1/4 C. Flour
1 C. Grated Parmesan or Romano Cheese
Directions:
Preheat over to 400 degrees. Saute ground turkey until cooked thouroughly, drain all liquid, and then set aside to drain even more. Then saute the vegetables until tender and add the turkey back into the pan. Add sauce and spices and cook together until heated through and mixed well. Add into a greased 9 x 13 baking dish and place the pepperoni slices on top and sprinkle a layer of mozzarella over the pepperoni.
Next, make the crust. Beat eggs in a large bowl until frothy. Add the milk and oil and beat together. Slowly add the flour until everything is combined well.
Smooth the crust mixture over the pizza filling and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Bake uncovered about 20 - 25 minutes until done and let rest for about 15 minutes before serving.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, August 9th, 2009 - 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
John 6:41 Then the Jews began to complain about him because he said, “I
am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42 They were saying, “Is not
this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he
now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” 43 Jesus answered them, “Do
not complain among yourselves. 44 No one can come to me unless drawn
by the Father who sent me; and I will raise that person up on the last day.
45 It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’
Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. 46 Not
that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen
the Father. 47 Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life. 48 I
am the bread of life. 49 Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, and
they died. 50 This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one
may eat of it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from
heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will
give for the life of the world is my flesh.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. The people complained because Jesus told them the truth and they didn’t
like it. Have you ever met someone who complains against God because they
don’t like living as God wants?
2. Think about the relationship between Joseph and Jesus and talk about how Jesus can say 'I have come down from Heaven'.
3. Jesus says if we eat him we will live forever? Does this mean that no matter
what we do after receiving holy Communion, we’re automatically going to get
to heaven, or does it mean that if we go to Holy Communion we should become more and more like Jesus and learn to love others more — and that will help us get to Heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 6:41 Then the Jews began to complain about him because he said, “I
am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42 They were saying, “Is not
this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he
now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” 43 Jesus answered them, “Do
not complain among yourselves. 44 No one can come to me unless drawn
by the Father who sent me; and I will raise that person up on the last day.
45 It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’
Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. 46 Not
that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen
the Father. 47 Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life. 48 I
am the bread of life. 49 Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, and
they died. 50 This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one
may eat of it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from
heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will
give for the life of the world is my flesh.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. The people complained because Jesus told them the truth and they didn’t
like it. Have you ever met someone who complains against God because they
don’t like living as God wants?
2. Think about the relationship between Joseph and Jesus and talk about how Jesus can say 'I have come down from Heaven'.
3. Jesus says if we eat him we will live forever? Does this mean that no matter
what we do after receiving holy Communion, we’re automatically going to get
to heaven, or does it mean that if we go to Holy Communion we should become more and more like Jesus and learn to love others more — and that will help us get to Heaven?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - August 9th, 2009 - Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
The Eucharist is the special gift of Jesus that gives
us eternal life. It is the bread that nourishes us on our
journey here in this life. When we are discouraged, as Elijah
was, it strengthens us that we may continue. Jesus is the
bread of life, the food that brings eternal life and the
foretaste of the heavenly kingdom. What a gift that
promises eternal life! What a gift that feeds us on our daily
journey! Savor this special food!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
The Eucharist is the special gift of Jesus that gives
us eternal life. It is the bread that nourishes us on our
journey here in this life. When we are discouraged, as Elijah
was, it strengthens us that we may continue. Jesus is the
bread of life, the food that brings eternal life and the
foretaste of the heavenly kingdom. What a gift that
promises eternal life! What a gift that feeds us on our daily
journey! Savor this special food!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Sunday Gospel Message - 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
God gave the Israelites manna in the desert and took
care of them each day. This gift from God would be a
foreshadowing of the special gift that Jesus would give us in
the Eucharist. Jesus, the Son of God, promised that He
would give the bread that would give life to the world. Jesus
foretold that He would be the “bread of life; whoever comes
to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will
never thirst.”
The Israelites asked the question about the manna.
Moses responded that it was the bread that the Lord had
given them to eat. If we asked that same question, Jesus
would tell us that this is the bread that He has given us to
eat. We ask that the Lord to help us realize what a
tremendous gift that Jesus has given us in the Eucharist.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
God gave the Israelites manna in the desert and took
care of them each day. This gift from God would be a
foreshadowing of the special gift that Jesus would give us in
the Eucharist. Jesus, the Son of God, promised that He
would give the bread that would give life to the world. Jesus
foretold that He would be the “bread of life; whoever comes
to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will
never thirst.”
The Israelites asked the question about the manna.
Moses responded that it was the bread that the Lord had
given them to eat. If we asked that same question, Jesus
would tell us that this is the bread that He has given us to
eat. We ask that the Lord to help us realize what a
tremendous gift that Jesus has given us in the Eucharist.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage
John 6:24 So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they
themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. 25 When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” 26 Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. 27 Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.” 28 Then they said to him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he
has sent.” 30 So they said to him, “What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” 32 Then Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” 35 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be
hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
Questions for discussion:
1) Jesus said to the crowd that they were following him not because they
believed in Him as God but because they thought they could get a free meal
from him. Sometimes people follow Jesus not because he’s God, but because
they want a miracle, they want him to do favors for them. Has there ever been a time that you've treated Jesus this way?
2) Jesus tell us not to work for the food that perishes, but for the food that
endures for eternal life. What is this food?
3) Jesus said, “I am the bread of life?” What does this mean?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 6:24 So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they
themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. 25 When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” 26 Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. 27 Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.” 28 Then they said to him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he
has sent.” 30 So they said to him, “What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” 32 Then Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” 35 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be
hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
Questions for discussion:
1) Jesus said to the crowd that they were following him not because they
believed in Him as God but because they thought they could get a free meal
from him. Sometimes people follow Jesus not because he’s God, but because
they want a miracle, they want him to do favors for them. Has there ever been a time that you've treated Jesus this way?
2) Jesus tell us not to work for the food that perishes, but for the food that
endures for eternal life. What is this food?
3) Jesus said, “I am the bread of life?” What does this mean?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Sunday Gospel Message - Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
The readings in the Gospel for a few weeks will be
from John’s Gospel. It will be on the teachings of Jesus
about the Eucharist. Jesus shows the power that He has by
multiplying the loaves and feeding a very large crowd. By
working this miracle, Jesus proved that He had the power
and could fulfill the promise that He was about to make. He
was going to promise that He would give us His flesh to eat
and His blood to drink. Perhaps the miracle of the
multiplication of the loaves and fishes may not have
happened had the little boy not shared his five barley loaves
and two fish. The miracle of Jesus giving of Himself in the
Eucharist may not happen if we do not do our part in
preparation for a worthy reception of Him.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
The readings in the Gospel for a few weeks will be
from John’s Gospel. It will be on the teachings of Jesus
about the Eucharist. Jesus shows the power that He has by
multiplying the loaves and feeding a very large crowd. By
working this miracle, Jesus proved that He had the power
and could fulfill the promise that He was about to make. He
was going to promise that He would give us His flesh to eat
and His blood to drink. Perhaps the miracle of the
multiplication of the loaves and fishes may not have
happened had the little boy not shared his five barley loaves
and two fish. The miracle of Jesus giving of Himself in the
Eucharist may not happen if we do not do our part in
preparation for a worthy reception of Him.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - July 26th, 2009 -17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage: Read John 6:1-15
John 6:1 After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, also called the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A large crowd kept following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing for the sick. 3 Jesus went up the mountain and sat down there with his disciples. 4 Now the Passover, the festival of the Jews, was near. 5 When he looked up and saw a large crowd coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?” 6 He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do. 7 Philip answered him, “Six months’ wages would not buy enough bread for each of them to get a little.” 8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, 9 “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?” 10 Jesus said, “Make
the people sit down.” Now there was a great deal of grass in the place; so they sat down, about five thousand in all. 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 When they were satisfied, he told his disciples, “Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost.” 13 So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets. 14 When the people saw the sign that he had done, they began to say, “This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world.” 15 When Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he
withdrew again to the mountain by himself.
Questions:
1) The Passage says that Jesus took the loaves of bread, gave thanks to God, and gave them
to others. What part of the Mass does this remind you of? Does Jesus still feed lots of people today? How, when, and where?
2) Jesus started this miracle by asking for help from the boy with the five loaves and two fish. He could have fed everyone by Himself, but He wanted the young boy’s help. It’s the same way now. God wants us to give Him help, however we can, so that He can take that help and do great things with it. Even little children can help God. What are you going to do this week to help Jesus?
3) Jesus did this miracle during the Feast of the Passover. What’s the Passover? Why
would Jesus do this miracle during the Passover? Is there a connection (do they belong together for some reason) between the miracle and Passover? (Hint: if you get the right answer to #1, you’ll have a big clue)
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
John 6:1 After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, also called the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A large crowd kept following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing for the sick. 3 Jesus went up the mountain and sat down there with his disciples. 4 Now the Passover, the festival of the Jews, was near. 5 When he looked up and saw a large crowd coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?” 6 He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do. 7 Philip answered him, “Six months’ wages would not buy enough bread for each of them to get a little.” 8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, 9 “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?” 10 Jesus said, “Make
the people sit down.” Now there was a great deal of grass in the place; so they sat down, about five thousand in all. 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 When they were satisfied, he told his disciples, “Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost.” 13 So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets. 14 When the people saw the sign that he had done, they began to say, “This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world.” 15 When Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he
withdrew again to the mountain by himself.
Questions:
1) The Passage says that Jesus took the loaves of bread, gave thanks to God, and gave them
to others. What part of the Mass does this remind you of? Does Jesus still feed lots of people today? How, when, and where?
2) Jesus started this miracle by asking for help from the boy with the five loaves and two fish. He could have fed everyone by Himself, but He wanted the young boy’s help. It’s the same way now. God wants us to give Him help, however we can, so that He can take that help and do great things with it. Even little children can help God. What are you going to do this week to help Jesus?
3) Jesus did this miracle during the Feast of the Passover. What’s the Passover? Why
would Jesus do this miracle during the Passover? Is there a connection (do they belong together for some reason) between the miracle and Passover? (Hint: if you get the right answer to #1, you’ll have a big clue)
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Mondays with Mary - A Celebration of Marian Feasts Throughout the Year
I just wanted to share the news of a wonderful book by Meredith A. Henning called Mondays with Mary - A Celebration of Marian Feasts Throughout the Year. This book was inspired from pondering the Litany of Loreto and is beautifully written. It contains prayers, Scripture, devotional activities, teatime recipe ideas, and other ways for teaching your children about their Heavenly Mother! There are also helpful appendices at the back of the book as well!
From Mondays with Mary:
It is my deep desire that this book will enrich your life and bestow upon your family the grace of Our Lady and her Son, Jesus Christ. This is what Mondays with Mary is all about. - Meredith A. Henning
Mondays with Mary provides a special way for your family to deepen your knowledge and love of Our Lord through His Most Holy Mother by exploring aspects of Mary's life that the Church reverences and celebrating Our Lady's feasts throughout the Liturgical year together!
Thank you, Meredith for this wonderful book!
You can get your copy of Mondays with Mary here and Meredith also keeps a blog at http://happyheartsmom.typepad.com/sweetness_and_light/
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Feast day is July 26th.
"Glorious St. Anne, filled with compassion for those who invoke thee, with love for those who suffer, heavily laden with the weight of my troubles, I cast myself at thy feet and humbly beg of thee to take the present affair which I recommend to thee under thy special protection. Vouchsafe to recommend it to thy daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and to lay it before the throne of Jesus, so that He may bring it to a happy issue. Cease not to intercede for me, St. Anne, until my request is granted. Good St. Anne, pray for us! St. Joachim, pray for us! Good St. Anne.
The Chaplet of Saint Anne
Each part consists of the Our Father, 5 Hail Marys and the Glory Be. After each Hail Mary say, “Jesus, Mary, Anne, grant us the favors we ask.”
1st part: In honor of Jesus, the grandson of Good Saint Anne
2nd part: In honor of Mary, the glorious daughter of Good Saint Anne
3rd part: In honor of Good Saint Anne, our great Patroness and Protector
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, July 19th, 2009 - Sixteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Gospel Passage - Sixteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time - Sunday, July 19th, 2009
Mark 6:30 The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they
had done and taught. 31 He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place
all by yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and
they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a
deserted place by themselves. 33 Now many saw them going and
recognized them, and they hurried there on foot from all the towns and
arrived ahead of them. 34 As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he
had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd;
and he began to teach them many things.
Questions
1) In the Gospel today, we see an example of prayer. The apostles told Jesus all they had done and taught and he took them away to a quiet place in order to rest with them. How often do you go to a quiet place and talk to Jesus about all that you’ve done, taught, and learned? What could you do to make more time to pray each day?
2) Jesus understood and had compassion for the crowd and so He began to teach them. Do you know that Jesus’ teachings are part of His compassionate love for you? Do you have compassion on others by teaching them what Jesus has to say?
3) The people were like sheep without a shepherd; in other words they were lost. We all know people who are lost, who don’t know about God and are going away from
Heaven. What can you do this week to help those people who are like lost sheep to
come back to Jesus, the Good Shepherd?
Used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Mark 6:30 The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they
had done and taught. 31 He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place
all by yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and
they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a
deserted place by themselves. 33 Now many saw them going and
recognized them, and they hurried there on foot from all the towns and
arrived ahead of them. 34 As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he
had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd;
and he began to teach them many things.
Questions
1) In the Gospel today, we see an example of prayer. The apostles told Jesus all they had done and taught and he took them away to a quiet place in order to rest with them. How often do you go to a quiet place and talk to Jesus about all that you’ve done, taught, and learned? What could you do to make more time to pray each day?
2) Jesus understood and had compassion for the crowd and so He began to teach them. Do you know that Jesus’ teachings are part of His compassionate love for you? Do you have compassion on others by teaching them what Jesus has to say?
3) The people were like sheep without a shepherd; in other words they were lost. We all know people who are lost, who don’t know about God and are going away from
Heaven. What can you do this week to help those people who are like lost sheep to
come back to Jesus, the Good Shepherd?
Used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Another prophet is in the forefront today.
Jeremiah is speaking a tough word to those shepherds
who were serving themselves. Jesus comes as the
Good Shepherd for He comes to serve others and He
has compassion on the abandoned flock. The Lord
formed the Apostles and sent them out to preach. Now
the Apostles are returning to report on their success.
Jesus invites even the new shepherds to an out of the
way place in order that He might renew them. Jesus
taught both the sheep and the shepherds because He
brought refreshing words of truth and compassion.
Used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Another prophet is in the forefront today.
Jeremiah is speaking a tough word to those shepherds
who were serving themselves. Jesus comes as the
Good Shepherd for He comes to serve others and He
has compassion on the abandoned flock. The Lord
formed the Apostles and sent them out to preach. Now
the Apostles are returning to report on their success.
Jesus invites even the new shepherds to an out of the
way place in order that He might renew them. Jesus
taught both the sheep and the shepherds because He
brought refreshing words of truth and compassion.
Used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, July 12th, 2009 - Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Read Mark 6:7-13
Questions for discussion:
1) Jesus sent His apostles out two-by-two to tell people to stop sinning and be
sorry for their sins. Why do you think He sent them out in pairs? Was it just
to keep them safe?
2) Why do you think Jesus sent the apostles out poor, with no bread, no money,
no change of clothes? Was it so they would be dependent on God and keep mindful of God's presence?
3) The apostles told everyone that they should repent. What does this mean?
used with permission of Fr. Roger Landry
Questions for discussion:
1) Jesus sent His apostles out two-by-two to tell people to stop sinning and be
sorry for their sins. Why do you think He sent them out in pairs? Was it just
to keep them safe?
2) Why do you think Jesus sent the apostles out poor, with no bread, no money,
no change of clothes? Was it so they would be dependent on God and keep mindful of God's presence?
3) The apostles told everyone that they should repent. What does this mean?
used with permission of Fr. Roger Landry
Sunday Gospel Message - Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
FIFTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus knew that it would be difficult for all of us
sent to bring the good news of Jesus to people each day. He
sent the disciples out two by two. Go where you are sent,
armed with the Lord’s word and the power of the Holy
Spirit. Have another person whom you can encourage and
who can encourage you. Know that you are about the Lord’s
work and He will sustain you. The prophet Amos tells us
how he answered his obstacle: “I was no prophet, nor have I
belonged to a company of prophets; I was a shepherd and a
dresser of sycamores. The Lord took me from the flock, and
said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to me people, Israel.’”
Used with permission of Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Jesus knew that it would be difficult for all of us
sent to bring the good news of Jesus to people each day. He
sent the disciples out two by two. Go where you are sent,
armed with the Lord’s word and the power of the Holy
Spirit. Have another person whom you can encourage and
who can encourage you. Know that you are about the Lord’s
work and He will sustain you. The prophet Amos tells us
how he answered his obstacle: “I was no prophet, nor have I
belonged to a company of prophets; I was a shepherd and a
dresser of sycamores. The Lord took me from the flock, and
said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to me people, Israel.’”
Used with permission of Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Go Cooking Moms - Quick Healthy Burgers
Here's a family recipe for Healthy Hamburgers:
Ingredients:
1lb. Ground Turkey
1 Medium Carrot (grated)
1 Packet of Chicken Boullion
1 Zucchini (grated)
2 tsp. Garlic Powder
1/2 box. Frozen Chopped Spinach (cooked and squeezed dry)
1/4 C. BBQ Sauce (optional)
Just mix all ingredients together and shape into patties. Grill until done.
Ingredients:
1lb. Ground Turkey
1 Medium Carrot (grated)
1 Packet of Chicken Boullion
1 Zucchini (grated)
2 tsp. Garlic Powder
1/2 box. Frozen Chopped Spinach (cooked and squeezed dry)
1/4 C. BBQ Sauce (optional)
Just mix all ingredients together and shape into patties. Grill until done.
Prayer of St. Francis de Sales
Be at Peace
Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow.
The same Everlasting Father, who takes care of you today, will take care of you tomorrow, and every day. He will either shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at Peace then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.
Amen.
Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow.
The same Everlasting Father, who takes care of you today, will take care of you tomorrow, and every day. He will either shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at Peace then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.
Amen.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Sunday Gospel Message - 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Being a prophet was not easy. In fact, most
prophets tried to get out of their call. The Lord told
Ezekiel that the people were “hard of face and obstinate
of heart.” He, however, was to go and proclaim the
truth; the results were up to God. Jesus Himself
experienced a difficult time as He preached in His own
native place. Some of the obstacles were lack of faith;
others were false teaching; others were preconceived
ideas of what the Lord was going to do; still others
were what they were used to doing. Jesus came to
bring the truth and to teach about a special relationship
with His Father. Our response is to listen to the Lord
and to His Spouse, the Church. That is how Jesus
established His kingdom.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Being a prophet was not easy. In fact, most
prophets tried to get out of their call. The Lord told
Ezekiel that the people were “hard of face and obstinate
of heart.” He, however, was to go and proclaim the
truth; the results were up to God. Jesus Himself
experienced a difficult time as He preached in His own
native place. Some of the obstacles were lack of faith;
others were false teaching; others were preconceived
ideas of what the Lord was going to do; still others
were what they were used to doing. Jesus came to
bring the truth and to teach about a special relationship
with His Father. Our response is to listen to the Lord
and to His Spouse, the Church. That is how Jesus
established His kingdom.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence
Family Bible Study - Sunday, July 5th, 2009
Reading: Mark 6:1-6
Questions for Family Discussion:
1) The people of Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth did not believe in Him. He was sad and
surprised that they did not believe. In your home, do you think Jesus would be proud of how much you believe in Him or sad because you don’t believe in Him enough?
2) Jesus was a carpenter and went to work each day like most grownups do. He did His
job the best He could. That means that if you do your work the best you can, God is
happy. What kind of work can you do to please God when you grow up? What
work can you do now?
3) The Gospel story seems to say that Jesus had “brothers”, but the word “brother” here means “relatives” in Hebrew. The same word is used for brothers, cousins, and other relatives. Why do we know the Jesus didn’t have any true brothers or sisters? What do we know about Mary that makes this impossible?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Questions for Family Discussion:
1) The people of Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth did not believe in Him. He was sad and
surprised that they did not believe. In your home, do you think Jesus would be proud of how much you believe in Him or sad because you don’t believe in Him enough?
2) Jesus was a carpenter and went to work each day like most grownups do. He did His
job the best He could. That means that if you do your work the best you can, God is
happy. What kind of work can you do to please God when you grow up? What
work can you do now?
3) The Gospel story seems to say that Jesus had “brothers”, but the word “brother” here means “relatives” in Hebrew. The same word is used for brothers, cousins, and other relatives. Why do we know the Jesus didn’t have any true brothers or sisters? What do we know about Mary that makes this impossible?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Prayer for Priests
http://www.usccb.org/yearforpriests/pdf/Peoples%20Prayer%20for%20Priests%20(English).pdf
Dear Lord,
we pray that the Blessed Mother
wrap her mantle around Your priests
and through her intercession
strengthen them for their ministry.
We pray that Mary will guide Your priests to follow her own words, "Do whatever He tells you" (Jn 2:5).
May Your priests have the heart of St. Joseph, Mary's most chaste spouse.
May the Blessed Mother's own pierced heart inspire them to embrace all who suffer at the foot of the Cross.
May Your priests be Holy, filled with the fire of Your Love
seeking nothing but Your greater glory and the salvation of souls. Amen.
St. John Vianney, pray for us.
Dear Lord,
we pray that the Blessed Mother
wrap her mantle around Your priests
and through her intercession
strengthen them for their ministry.
We pray that Mary will guide Your priests to follow her own words, "Do whatever He tells you" (Jn 2:5).
May Your priests have the heart of St. Joseph, Mary's most chaste spouse.
May the Blessed Mother's own pierced heart inspire them to embrace all who suffer at the foot of the Cross.
May Your priests be Holy, filled with the fire of Your Love
seeking nothing but Your greater glory and the salvation of souls. Amen.
St. John Vianney, pray for us.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, June 28, 2009
Gospel Passage -
Read Mark 5:21-43
Questions -
Jesus did two miracles in today’s Gospel. Do you know about any miracles?
The woman with the bleeding problem got a miracle by touching Jesus’ clothes. All of
us do more than just touch His clothes when we receive Holy Communion. We get
Jesus inside our own body. Is there anything He can’t do for us when we receive Him
in Holy Communion?
The people laughed at Jesus when He told them that the little girl was just sleeping.
Have you ever met someone who tried to make fun of Jesus because they don’t
understand Him? Have they ever made fun of you because they don’t understand Jesus
like you do?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Read Mark 5:21-43
Questions -
Jesus did two miracles in today’s Gospel. Do you know about any miracles?
The woman with the bleeding problem got a miracle by touching Jesus’ clothes. All of
us do more than just touch His clothes when we receive Holy Communion. We get
Jesus inside our own body. Is there anything He can’t do for us when we receive Him
in Holy Communion?
The people laughed at Jesus when He told them that the little girl was just sleeping.
Have you ever met someone who tried to make fun of Jesus because they don’t
understand Him? Have they ever made fun of you because they don’t understand Jesus
like you do?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday, June 21st, 2009
Gospel Passage: Mark 4:35-41
Questions:
1) Even the wind and the sea listened and obeyed Jesus as we read in the Gospel
today. Do you listen and obey Jesus and do what He asks you to do? How do
you know what He is asking you to do?
2) We can sometimes use “symbols” to mean something else. For example, the
flag is a symbol for the United States. The church uses a boat as its symbol of
the Church, which is like St. Peter’s boat where Jesus was sleeping or from
where he sometimes taught. Do you think Jesus is always in the “boat” of the
Church?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Questions:
1) Even the wind and the sea listened and obeyed Jesus as we read in the Gospel
today. Do you listen and obey Jesus and do what He asks you to do? How do
you know what He is asking you to do?
2) We can sometimes use “symbols” to mean something else. For example, the
flag is a symbol for the United States. The church uses a boat as its symbol of
the Church, which is like St. Peter’s boat where Jesus was sleeping or from
where he sometimes taught. Do you think Jesus is always in the “boat” of the
Church?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Family Bible Study - Corpus Christi Sunday B, June 14th, 2009
Read Mark 14:12-26
1) Today's feast is called "Corpus Christi", which means the Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ. What then are we celebrating? (Hint- it begins with an "E")
2) Jesus says that His Flesh ("Body") is true food and His Blood is true drink. That means that when we eat Holy Communion we don't eat bread and wine at all, because both have been totally changed into Jesus' Body and Blood. So is it wrong to call the Holy Eucharist just "bread and wine?"
3) Jesus says the same words at Mass that He said at the Last Supper! Do you know that every Mass you are really part of the Last Supper, Jesus' Death, and His return from death (His Resurrection)? Could anything in this whole world be more important than Holy Mass?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
1) Today's feast is called "Corpus Christi", which means the Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ. What then are we celebrating? (Hint- it begins with an "E")
2) Jesus says that His Flesh ("Body") is true food and His Blood is true drink. That means that when we eat Holy Communion we don't eat bread and wine at all, because both have been totally changed into Jesus' Body and Blood. So is it wrong to call the Holy Eucharist just "bread and wine?"
3) Jesus says the same words at Mass that He said at the Last Supper! Do you know that every Mass you are really part of the Last Supper, Jesus' Death, and His return from death (His Resurrection)? Could anything in this whole world be more important than Holy Mass?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Go Cooking Moms! - Simple Macaroni Salad
It's feeling like summertime here! We had our first BBQ last week and it was wonderful to eat outside as a family. Still a little cool outside, so NO BUGS!
SIMPLE MACARONI SALAD:
Ingredients:
1 box elbow macaroni
1 red pepper chopped
1/3 C chopped parsely
1/4 C cidar vinegar
1 - 1 1/2 C mayo
3/4 C cooked peas
Salt, Pepper, and Garlic Powder to taste
Directions:
Cook macaroni and peas separately then drain and set them aside to cool. When macaroni is cool, add peas, red pepper, and parsely and mix together. Then, mix in the vinegar, mayo and spices and serve.
SIMPLE MACARONI SALAD:
Ingredients:
1 box elbow macaroni
1 red pepper chopped
1/3 C chopped parsely
1/4 C cidar vinegar
1 - 1 1/2 C mayo
3/4 C cooked peas
Salt, Pepper, and Garlic Powder to taste
Directions:
Cook macaroni and peas separately then drain and set them aside to cool. When macaroni is cool, add peas, red pepper, and parsely and mix together. Then, mix in the vinegar, mayo and spices and serve.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Pentecost Craft
We are working on a wall hanging for Pentecost... To do this, we're using:
- 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 your dove's 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!
Family Bible Study - Holy Trinity Sunday, June 7th, 2009, B
Read Matthew 28:16-20
This Sunday is the Feast of the Holy Trinity. What do we mean when we say The Trinity? Jesus sent us out to make disciples of everyone, helping them to be baptized in the Name of the Holy Trinity and teaching them to obey everything he commanded us. How have you been doing so far on this mission? (The most important mission of your life!!)?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
This Sunday is the Feast of the Holy Trinity. What do we mean when we say The Trinity? Jesus sent us out to make disciples of everyone, helping them to be baptized in the Name of the Holy Trinity and teaching them to obey everything he commanded us. How have you been doing so far on this mission? (The most important mission of your life!!)?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Friday, May 22, 2009
Family Bible Study - Sunday May 24th, 2009, Easter, Year B
Seventh Sunday of Easter, Year B
Gospel Passage: Read John 17:11-19
Questions for family discussion:
1) Jesus prayed to God the Father that He would keep us safe (protect us) from the evil one. How did Jesus teach us to pray for that same thing? Hint: Think about the end of the Our Father.
2) Jesus asks that the Father "sanctify us" (make us holy) in the truth. Are you trying to become holy by getting to know God's Truth and living It?
3) Jesus did not want to lose anyone the Father had given Him. How can someone get lost from Jesus? What can you do to make sure that you don't get lost from Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Gospel Passage: Read John 17:11-19
Questions for family discussion:
1) Jesus prayed to God the Father that He would keep us safe (protect us) from the evil one. How did Jesus teach us to pray for that same thing? Hint: Think about the end of the Our Father.
2) Jesus asks that the Father "sanctify us" (make us holy) in the truth. Are you trying to become holy by getting to know God's Truth and living It?
3) Jesus did not want to lose anyone the Father had given Him. How can someone get lost from Jesus? What can you do to make sure that you don't get lost from Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry
Family Bible Study - Pentecost Sunday, May 31st, 2009
First Reading: Acts 2:1-11
Questions:
1) Why do you think the Holy Spirit looked like a tongue made out of fire? What did the fiery tongue make the Apostles do?
2) The Holy Spirit helped the Apostles to talk with people from all different places and languages. How do you think the Holy Spirit wants to help you talk to others about Jesus?
3) The Apostles got together around Mary and prayed 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.
Questions:
1) Why do you think the Holy Spirit looked like a tongue made out of fire? What did the fiery tongue make the Apostles do?
2) The Holy Spirit helped the Apostles to talk with people from all different places and languages. How do you think the Holy Spirit wants to help you talk to others about Jesus?
3) The Apostles got together around Mary and prayed 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.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Go Cooking Moms! - Homemade Pizza
This is one of our family favorites! We've tried the "by hand" directions a few times but usually follow the bread machine directions. Either way, it is easy to fix and fun to make with the kids! Enjoy!
Ingredients:
1 1/2 Cups Warm Water
1 package (1 tsp) yeast
pinch salt
4 T. olive oil
4-4 1/2 Cups. all purpose flour
Cornmeal
Toppings
Bread Machine Directions:
1. Add all ingredients except cornmeal into mixer in order of liquids to dry. Add yeast last by making a little hole in the flour, being careful not to go too far down to the liquid, and adding the yeast into the flour. Turn on dough setting and let mix. Keep watch to see if you need to add more flour or water.
2. When setting is finished, pre-heat oven to 350 degrees and follow steps 4 and 5 below--you're done!
By Hand Directions:
1. Mix yeast and water together in a large mixing bowl. Blend in oil and salt. Add 2 Cups of the flour and mix until dough is formed.
1. Mix yeast and water together in a large mixing bowl. Blend in oil and salt. Add 2 Cups of the flour and mix until dough is formed.
2. Flour a cutting board and begin kneading the dough, working in as much of the leftover flour as needed to make a smooth, non-sticky dough.
3. Put dough into a greased bowl and cover with saran wrap to let rise until double in bulk.
4. Take a non-greased cookie sheet and sprinkle with cornmeal. Then, begin to flatten the dough out onto the cookie sheet to whatever thickness you'd like.
5. Top with whatever toppings and bake at 350 degrees for about 20-25 minutes (keep a watch on the bottom-might cook faster depending on thickness)
Copyright The Catholic Family Network Go Cooking Moms!
Copyright The Catholic Family Network Go Cooking Moms!
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