Family Bible Study - 6th Sunday of Easter

Gospel Passage
John 14:15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask
the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. 17 This is
the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor
knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you. 18 “I
will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you. 19 In a little while the world will
no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live. 20 On that
day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21 They who
have my commandments and keep them are those who love me; and those who love
me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them and reveal myself to them.”
Questions -

1. Jesus says that if we love him, we will obey His commandments. Do you
folllow his commandments?

2. Jesus says that he and the Father will send the “Spirit of Truth.” What
“Spirit” is he talking about? Be specific. (Hint: Think about Pentecost).

3. Jesus says, “In a little while the world will no longer see me.” What is he
talking about? (Hint: It has something to do with this Thursday).
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Family Bible Study - Third Sunday of Easter

Luke 24:13 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from
Jerusalem, 14 and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were
talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept
from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, "What is this conversation which you are holding with each
other as you walk?" And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cle'opas, answered him,
"Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?"
19 And he said to them, "What things?" And they said to him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a
prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers
delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to
redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since this happened. 22 Moreover, some
women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning 23 and did not find his body;
and they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of
those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it just as the women had said; but him they did not see."
25 And he said to them, "O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26
Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" 27 And beginning
with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. 28
So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He appeared to be going further, 29 but they
constrained him, saying, "Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent." So he went in to
stay with them. 30 When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed, and broke it, and gave it
to them. 31 And their eyes were opened and they recognized him; and he vanished out of their sight. 32
They said to each other, "Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened
to us the scriptures?" 33 And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven
gathered together and those who were with them, 34 who said, "The Lord has risen indeed, and has
appeared to Simon!" 35 Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in
the breaking of the bread.

Questions for discussion -
1. Jesus first explained the Scriptures to the two men. Does the priest ever
explain things to us at Church? What is the name for this part of the Mass?

2. The men said that their hearts were “burning” when they heard Jesus speak.
Do we listen carefully so that Jesus can set our hearts on fire with love for
him?

3. The disciples saw Jesus in the “breaking of the bread.” Does this remind
you of any part of Mass? Do you see Jesus at that part of the Mass?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - Third Sunday of Easter

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
Christ has called us to be his followers and disciples.
He has called us not because He needs us, but because we need
Him. He has prepared for us a heavenly banquet—a feast of joy
and happiness that will last forever. The present Eucharistic
meal is the means He instituted to help us reach the new
Jerusalem which is above. Let us use this means frequently and
fervently; in it we shall, like the two disciples, recognize Him
as our loving, risen Savior and each time we receive Him we
will return full of the glad tidings that Jesus has risen and
conquered death, not only for Himself but for all men of
goodwill.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - Divine Mercy Sunday

Gospel Passage
John 20:19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut
where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and
said to them, "Peace be with you." 20 When he had said this, he showed them his
hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus
said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send
you." 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them,
"Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you
retain the sins of any, they are retained." 24 Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called
the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him,
"We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see in his hands the print of
the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side,
I will not believe." 26 Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and
Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them,
and said, "Peace be with you." 27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and
see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but
believing." 28 Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" 29 Jesus said to him,
"Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen
and yet believe." 30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples,
which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that
Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name.
Questions for discussion -
1. One of the first things Jesus did after rising from the dead was to breathe on the
Apostles and give them the power to forgive sins. This is what priests do in the
sacrament of Reconciliation. If this is one of the first things Jesus did after rising from the dead, how important do you think it is to Him?

2. Jesus said to the Apostles, “If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” How could they know which sins to retain and which to forgive unless somebody told them in confession? (Do you see why we have to tell the priest our sins?)

3. Jesus said to “doubting” Thomas, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet
believe.” We have not seen Jesus rise from the dead with our own eyes. How can we be
blessed too?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - Divine Mercy Sunday

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER
OR DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
We can look at Thomas as the “doubting Thomas” or
we can look at him as one who really wanted to see and
experience the Risen Lord. Thomas wanted the same
experience as the other Apostles and he wanted to touch the
Lord Jesus in order that he could know that Jesus was really
alive. We need to have that same desire to see Jesus and know
that He is risen and is in our lives.
The early Christians joined together in prayer and the
Lord revealed Himself to them in their community prayer life.
As we gather in prayer during the celebration of the Eucharist,
we can expect that the Lord will reveal Himself to us. As we
share our time, talent, and treasure with one another, as the
early Christians did, the Lord will be with us also.
It is the ninth day since Good Friday when Jesus died
for our sins. It is Divine Mercy Sunday. Accept the ocean of
mercy that Jesus has for us.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Sunday Gospel Message - EASTER: THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD

EASTER: THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD
A Happy and Blessed Easter to all from the leadership
and staff of Holy Name of Jesus! May the Risen Lord fill each
and every one of you and your loved ones with hope, joy, and
peace! The Lord is risen and is with us, Alleluia!
We would like to take this opportunity to express the
appreciation of all the parishioners of Holy Name of Jesus to
all those who cleaned the church, to those who assisted in
the Holy Week ceremonies, and to those who so beautifully
decorated the church for this Easter season. The beauty of
the liturgies and the decoration of the church help us to build
up our faith. Thank you to all who worship with us and aid
in our Spirit-filled liturgies.
Jesus is risen and is with us! This Easter event gave
hope to the early disciples who had witnessed the death of
Jesus. By His resurrection, Jesus proved that what He had
promised would be fulfilled. We celebrate the most
important feast of the year because Easter gives us the
promise of eternal life with Jesus. As He died and rose, so
we die and rise to share His glory.
Our baptism reminds us that Jesus gave us new life
and asks us to follow in His footsteps. Today we renew our
baptismal promises and profess that Jesus is our Lord and
Savior. During this Easter season we will have the rite of
sprinkling at each weekend Mass to remind us of the new
life given us through baptism and through the resurrection of
Jesus. Have a wonderful Easter season!
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - Easter Sunday!

Gospel Passage
Matt. 28:1 After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary
Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And suddenly there was a
great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled
back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing
white as snow. 4 For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. 5 But
the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus
who was crucified. 6 He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the
place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from
the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This
is my message for you.” 8 So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and
ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they
came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them,
“Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
Questions for discussion -

1. Today we celebrate that Jesus was raised from the dead three days after he
was killed by Crucifixion, just as he had promised. This is the most important
thing that ever happened in the history of the world. How does the risen Jesus
help you in your daily life?

2. Mary Magdalene and Mary, the Mother of James, went to the tomb “looking
for Jesus.” Where do you go to look for Jesus? How hard do you look for him?

3. The women left the tomb “with fear and great joy.” What do you think made
them so happy? What do you think had made them afraid?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Family Bible Study - Good Friday

Gospel Passage
(Abridged) John 19:1 Then Pilate took Jesus and scourged him. 2 And the soldiers plaited a
crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and arrayed him in a purple robe; 3 they came up to
him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and struck him with their hands. 5 So Jesus came out,
wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!” 6
When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!”
Pilate said to the Jews, “Behold your King!” 15 They cried out, “Away with him, away with
him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered,
“We have no king but Caesar.” 16 Then he handed him over to them to be crucified. 17 So they
took Jesus, and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which
is called in Hebrew Golgotha. 18 There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on
either side, and Jesus between them. 19 Pilate also wrote a title and put it on the cross; it read,
“Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” 23 When the soldiers had crucified Jesus they took
his garments and made four parts, one for each soldier; also his tunic. 25 So the soldiers did
this. But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of
Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved
standing near, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then he said to the
disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home. 28
After this Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfil the scripture), “I thirst.” 29 A
bowl full of vinegar stood there; so they put a sponge full of the vinegar on hyssop and held it to
his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the vinegar, he said, “It is finished”; and he bowed his
head and gave up his spirit.
Questions for discussion -

1. Why do you think we call the day Jesus was killed “Good” Friday?

2. On Good Friday, the mob chose Barabbas, a thief and a murderer, over
Jesus. What happens whenever we sin?

3. At the Cross, Jesus gave Mary to St. John as his mother and St. John as a son
to Mary, and St. John tells us that he took her into his home (meaning his life).
Have you taken Mary, Jesus’ mother, into your life like St. John did? Do you
see that the secret to remaining faithful to Jesus even when we look at the
suffering of someone we love is staying close to Mary at the foot of the Cross?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Gospel Passage
Matt. 21:1 And when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the
Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go into the village
opposite you, and immediately you will find an ass tied, and a colt with her; untie
them and bring them to me. 3 If any one says anything to you, you shall say, `The
Lord has need of them,' and he will send them immediately." 4 This took place to
fulfil what was spoken by the prophet, saying, 5 "Tell the daughter of Zion, Behold,
your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on an donkey, and on a colt, the
foal of an donkey." 6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; 7 they
brought the donkey and the colt, and put their garments on them, and he sat thereon.
8 Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road, and others cut branches from
the trees and spread them on the road. 9 And the crowds that went before him and
that followed him shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in
the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" 10 And when he entered Jerusalem,
all the city was stirred, saying, "Who is this?" 11 And the crowds said, "This is the
prophet Jesus from Nazareth of Galilee."

Questions for discussion -
1. This reading is from the first of two Gospels on Palm Sunday.
What do you think we call today Palm Sunday? Do you see any clues in the
reading?

2. The people in Jerusalem welcomed Jesus by shouting, “Blessed is he who
comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” When do say those
words during Mass?

used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 5th Sunday of Lent

"Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." Jesus did not deny the Scribes and Pharisees the right to carry out the prescription of the Law, but He insisted on one condition, namely, that they have no sin on their consciences. When Jesus and the woman were left alone, He looked up and said, "Woman, where are they?" Ironically, the self-righteous observers of the Law, so eager to throw stones, could not measure up to the requirement that Jesus had laid down. Previously called "Passion Sunday", this Sunday marks the beginning of Passiontide, a deeper time of Lent. This is the third Sunday of the scrutinies for the preparation of adult converts, and the final Sunday of Lent before the beginning of Holy Week. The Liturgy of the Word of this day speaks of recreation, resurrection, and new life.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 5th Sunday of Lent

Gospel Passage
John 11:1 Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 It was
Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was ill.
3 So the sisters sent to him, saying, "Lord, he whom you love is ill." 4 But when Jesus heard it he said, "This
illness is not unto death; it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by means of it." 5
Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So when he heard that he was ill, he stayed two days
longer in the place where he was. 7 Then after this he said to the disciples, "Let us go into Judea again." 17
Now when Jesus came, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb four days. 20 When Martha
heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary sat in the house. 21 Martha said to Jesus,
"Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 And even now I know that whatever you
ask from God, God will give you." 23 Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." 24 Martha said to him,
"I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day." 25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection
and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and whoever lives and believes in me
shall never die. Do you believe this?" 27 She said to him, "Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son
of God, he who is coming into the world." 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her
also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled; 34 and he said, "Where have you laid him?" They
said to him, "Lord, come and see." 35 Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, "See how he loved him!" 37 But some
of them said, "Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?" 38 Then
Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb; it was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. 39 Jesus said, "Take
away the stone." Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, "Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for
he has been dead four days." 40 Jesus said to her, "Did I not tell you that if you would believe you would see
the glory of God?" 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, "Father, I thank thee
that thou hast heard me. 42 I knew that thou hearest me always, but I have said this on account of the people
standing by, that they may believe that thou didst send me." 43 When he had said this, he cried with a loud
voice, "Lazarus, come out." 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with bandages, and his face
wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go." 45 Many of the Jews therefore, who
had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him.

Questions for discussion:
1. Jesus brought Lazarus back to life, who was already dead four days and in the tomb. Is there anything that Jesus cannot do?

2. Jesus says “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me, even though he die, shall live.” What does he mean?

3. Jesus loved Martha, Mary and Lazarus. He also loves you. Do you know and feel
this love? How does he show you this love?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 4th Sunday of Lent

The fourth Sunday of Lent is rather unique; like the 3rd Sunday of Advent ("Gaudete Sunday"), the fourth Sunday of Lent is a break in an otherwise penitential season. The vestments for this day will be rose, and flowers may adorn the altar. This day is called Laetare Sunday (also "Rose Sunday"), and it takes its name from the opening words of the Mass, the Introit's "Laetare, Jerusalem":
"Rejoice, O Jerusalem: and come together all you that love her. Rejoice with joy, you that have been in sorrow: that you may exult, and be filled from the breasts of your consolation. I rejoiced at the things that were said to me: we shall go into the house of the Lord. Glory be to the Father."
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 4th Sunday of Lent

Gospel Passage
John 9:1 As he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. 6 Jesus spat on the
ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man's eyes with the clay, 7
saying to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). So he went and
washed and came back seeing. 8 The neighbors and those who had seen him before
as a beggar, said, "Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?" 9 Some said, "It is
he"; others said, "No, but he is like him." He said, "I am the man." 3 They brought to
the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. 14 Now it was a sabbath day
when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. 15 The Pharisees again asked him
how he had received his sight. And he said to them, "He put clay on my eyes, and I
washed, and I see." 16 Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he
does not keep the sabbath." But others said, "How can a man who is a sinner do such
signs?" There was a division among them. 17 So they again said to the blind man,
"What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?" He said, "He is a
prophet." 4 They answered him, "You were born in utter sin, and would you teach
us?" And they cast him out. 35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having
found him he said, "Do you believe in the Son of man?" 36 He answered, "And who
is he, sir, that I may believe in him?" 37 Jesus said to him, "You have seen him, and it
is he who speaks to you." 38 He said, "Lord, I believe"; and he worshiped him.

Questions for discussion -

1. Jesus cured a blind man in today’s Gospel. Do you have any “blindness” in
your life that Jesus needs to cure, anything that makes it hard for you to see
Jesus?

2. Jesus could have cured the blind man without using clay and spit. Why do
you think he used them? Is it anything like the sacraments, where Jesus uses
water, oil and things from this world?

3. Jesus cared for the blind man and wants us to do the same. How do you care
for those who are blind, deaf, or have other problems?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 3rd Sunday of Lent

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT
The Israelites grumbles against Moses because they
were thirsty. Jesus gave the Samaritan woman water, and
satisfied the thirst of the people. Jesus, as He hung on the cross,
said: “I thirst.” The Church has looked at these Sacred Scripture
passages as a promise and a fulfillment of the living waters of
Baptism. If we still thirst, then we need to realize what Jesus
has given us at Baptism. He has shared His life with us. Jesus
thirsts for all of us to come and drink of the life that He holds
out to us. He thirsts for each one of us to be one with Him.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 3rd Sunday of Lent

Gospel Passage
John 4:5 So he came to a city of Samar'ia, called Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6
Jacob's well was there, and so Jesus, wearied as he was with his journey, sat down beside the well. It was
about the sixth hour. 7 There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink."
8 For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it
that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samar'ia?" For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. 10
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, `Give me a drink,' you
would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." 11 The woman said to him, "Sir, you
have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that living water? 12 Are you greater than
our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?" 13 Jesus said
to her, "Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall
give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to
eternal life." 15 The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to
draw." 19 The woman said to him, "Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshiped on this
mountain; and you say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship." 21 Jesus said to her,
"Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the
Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews.
23 But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth,
for such the Father seeks to worship him. 24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit
and truth." 25 The woman said to him, "I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ); when he
comes, he will show us all things." 26 Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am he." 39 Many Samaritans
from that city believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me all that I ever did." 40 So when
the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. 41 And many
more believed because of his word. 42 They said to the woman, "It is no longer because of your words that
we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world."
Questions for discussion -

1. Jesus tells the Samaritan woman that he can give her “living water” that will
be like a spring inside of her leading her to heaven. What do you think is this
water that Jesus is talking about? Do we ever use water in Church? What for?

2. Jesus says in the Gospel, “I who speak to you am He.” What does He mean?
Who is He? And what does that mean?

3. Jesus went to the well because he was “weary” or very tired from his
journey. What does that tell you about Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 2nd Sunday of Lent

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT
Christ has asked us to follow him, carrying our daily
cross, and the end of our journey is not Calvary but
resurrection, the entrance to a life of glory with our risen
Savior. The Christian who grasps his cross closely and
willingly, knowing its value for his real life, will find it
becomes lighter and often not a burden. The man who tries to
shuffle off his cross, and who curses and rebels against him
who sent it, will find it doubles its weight and loses all the
value it was intended to have for his true welfare.
Let the thought of the Transfiguration encourage each
one of us today, to do the little God demands of us, so that
when we pass out of this life we may be assured of seeing
Christ in his glory, ready to welcome us into his everlasting,
glorious kingdom.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 2nd Sunday of Lent

Gospel Passage
Matt. 17:1 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John
and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before
them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. 3
Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 4 Then Peter
said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three
dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still
speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice
said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6
When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7
But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” 8 And
when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. 9 As they were
coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until
after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
Questions for discussion -

1. God the Father almost never speaks in the Gospels, but in this story He tells
the three Apostles to “listen to Jesus.” How hard do you try to listen to Jesus
when He speaks each Sunday in the Bible readings at Church?

2. Why do you think Jesus was transfigured (looked different)? Do you think it
has anything to do with His Resurrection (his coming back from the dead)?

3. Who are Moses and Elijah? Why do you think they appeared to speak to
Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 1st Sunday of Lent

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT
Lent is a time for us to reflect upon what God has done for
us, to pray more often and fervently, and to ask the Lord that
we may have His grace and power to overcome temptation
as He did. Sin always looks inviting or else there would not
be any temptations. The temptations that Jesus faced in the
desert were all enticing, but His response was God’s word.
When we are faced with the allure of sin, we too should
reflect on God’s word for guidance.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 1st Sunday of Lent

Gospel Passage
Matt. 4:1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by
the devil. 2 And he fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterward he was hungry.
3 And the tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these
stones to become loaves of bread." 4 But he answered, "It is written, `Man shall not
live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" 5
Then the devil took him to the holy city, and set him on the pinnacle of the temple, 6
and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written, `He
will give his angels charge of you,' and `On their hands they will bear you up, lest
you strike your foot against a stone.'" 7 Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, `You
shall not tempt the Lord your God.'" 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high
mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them; 9
and he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me."
10 Then Jesus said to him, "Begone, Satan! for it is written, `You shall worship the
Lord your God and him only shall you serve.'" 11 Then the devil left him, and
behold, angels came and ministered to him.
Questions for discussion -

1. Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. During Lent, Christians fast on Ash
Wednesday and Good Friday. If Jesus fasted, why do you think Christians
fast?
2. Jesus says that “you shall not tempt the Lord your God.” How does someone
tempt God? Why is tempting God wrong?
3. Today’s Gospel talks about the devil, who is a fallen angel. Jesus defeated the
devil by his faithfulness to God his Father in the desert and through His death
and Resurrection. How does the devil try to tempt you and make you do bad
things? How can you get Jesus’ help to defeat the devil?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 9th Sunday in Ordinary Time

This week begins the very special season of Lent. As we come to receive ashes on our foreheads on Ash Wednesday, we are coming to say to the Lord that we are going to do penance this season. We are promising that we will try to turn away from sin and to be faithful to the Gospel and to all that the Gospel entails. Whatever we decide to do for Lent, it should bring us closer to God. Use the next few days to decide what acts of sacrifice or mortification you will choose. Lent is a season of grace.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 9th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
Matt. 7:21 “Not every one who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the
kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in
your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works
in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart
from me, you evildoers.’ 7:24 “Every one then who hears these words of
mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the
rock; 25 and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat
upon that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.
26 And every one who hears these words of mine and does not do them will
be like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand; 27 and the rain fell,
and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it
fell; and great was the fall of it.”
Questions for discussion -

1. Jesus says that it’s not enough to pray — when we say, “Lord, Lord” — but
we have to do the will of God by putting his teaching into practice. How do
you learn God’s will? How do you put it into practice?

2. Jesus says that there are two types of people we can be, those who build
their house on rock (or firm ground) and those who build their house on sand
(or flimsy ground). What does it mean to build on rock? Have you done so?

3. Jesus says that our house (read, our life) will be buffeted by winds, rain,
floods and more. What do you think these “winds” or “floods” or “rain” are in
the example Jesus uses?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Family Bible Study - 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
Matt. 6:24 Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one
and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot
serve God and mammon. 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life,
what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put
on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds
of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly
Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And which of you by
being anxious can add one cubit to his span of life? 28 And why are you anxious
about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor
spin; 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is
thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O men of little faith? 31
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or
‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek all these things; and your heavenly
Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his
righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well. 34 “Therefore do not be
anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day’s own
trouble be sufficient for the day.

Questions for discussion -

1. Jesus says we should not be anxious or worried about even the things we
really need in life: food, drink, clothing, housing. Why does he say we
shouldn’t be worried?

2. If we shouldn’t worry about what we really need in life (food, drink,
clothing or housing), is there anything else we should be worried about?

3. Jesus says, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all
these things shall be given you as well.” What does it mean to seek God’s
kingdom first? Which saint famously preached quite often on these words?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time

EIGHTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
True love of God and true Christian love of
neighbor, though they may sound easy, will make great
and sometimes severe demands on the true Christian. The
love of neighbor may be the harder of the two. We have
so many reasons for loving God, for thanking and adoring
him. But the neighbor, who often seems so unworthy of
our charitable help, who is so often ungrateful, how
difficult it is to continue being kind and helpful to him!
Yet it is by our true love of neighbor that we prove our
love for God.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Sunday Gospel Message - 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Charity begins at home, because it is here that it can and should be learned and practiced. It is first and foremost necessary for Christian peace in the home. Husband and wife must learn to understand and tolerate each other's imperfections and faults. If there is peace and harmony between husband and wife, the children will learn too to be understanding and forgiving. Such a home will be a truly happy home even if it has little of the world's riches. Our charity must spread from the home to our neighbors; to all those with whom we have contact. Try the sunny smile of true love, the kindly word of Christian encouragement, the helping hand of true charity, and not only will you brighten the darkness and lighten the load of your brother but you will be imitating in your own small way the perfect Father of love who is in Heaven.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
Matt. 5:38 Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye
and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But
if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; 40 and if
any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well;
41 and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give
to him who begs from you, and do not refuse him who would borrow from
you. 43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and
hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those
who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in
heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain
on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what
reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you
salute only your brethren, what more are you doing than others? Do not
even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You, therefore, must be perfect, as your
heavenly Father is perfect..”

Questions for discussion:

1. Jesus says that we must be perfect as God the Father is perfect. Does this
mean we can never get or do anything wrong? If not,
what do you think it means?

2. Jesus says that it’s not enough to love those who love us or be good to those
who are good to us. We need to be good even to those who treat us badly.
When someone is mean to you, are you mean
back to them or do you try to be good to them even when they’re mean to you?

3. Jesus says that we should pray for those who are bad and full of hate. Do
you pray for people in this way, that God may be merciful to them and help
them change and become good?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Family Bible Study - 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
Matt. 5:20 For I tell you, unless your holiness exceeds that of the scribes and
Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 21 "You have heard
that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall
be liable to judgment.' 22 But I say to you that every one who is angry with
his brother shall be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother shall be
liable to the council, and whoever says, `You fool!' shall be liable to the hell
of fire. 27 "You have heard that it was said, `You shall not commit
adultery.' 28 But I say to you that every one who looks at a woman lustfully
has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 33 "Again you have
heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not swear falsely, but
shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.' 34 But I say to you, Do not
swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 37 Let what you
say be simply `Yes' or `No'; anything more than this comes from evil.

Questions for discussion:

1. Jesus says that in order to enter into heaven, our holiness has to be greater
than that of the scribes and pharisees. How do we become holy? How does
God try to make us holy? (Hint: a 10 letter word starting & ending with “s”).

2. Several times in this passage, Jesus quotes a part of the Old Testament and
then says, “But I say to you.” What do you think Jesus was trying to show by
saying “I say to you” in contrast with the word of God in Sacred Scripture?

3. Jesus says that being angry with someone else is like killing them. Why do
you think he says this?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time

FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
No less an authority than Christ himself calls his
true followers the "salt of the earth." and the "light of the
world." These are titles of honor, and of the greatest
distinction. Christ is putting his true follower on almost a
level with himself. He was the light of the world; he was the
salt of the earth. It was he who gave men the knowledge of
the true nature of God. It was he who gave this life its flavor,
who gave this life its meaning, its preservation. By his death
and resurrection he took away the sting of death, and
removed its eternal corruption, by the guarantee and promise
of a resurrection to an eternal life.
Life on earth is short. The demands of our Christian
life may not always be easy, but we know that if we live up
to them, we are like Christ. We are continuing his great work
by our own good example to our neighbor, and we are giving
glory to God, and are earning for ourselves the eternal light
of heaven.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
Matt. 5:13 "You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how
shall its saltness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be
thrown out and trodden under foot by men. 14 "You are the light of the
world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. 15 Nor do men light a lamp and
put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and
give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Questions
1. Jesus calls us the “salt of the earth.” Why? What was salt meant to do? How are Christians supposed to be this type of
salt on earth?

2. Jesus calls us “the light of the world.” But he also says in St. John’s Gospel,
“I am the Light of the World.” How can he and us both be the light of the
world? What is the relationship between His light and our light?

3. Jesus says that our light should shine before others so that others, in seeing
our good deeds, might praise God. Are you enthusiastic in living your faith, so
that others might see your faith and praise God? If so, how?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Blessed are those who do what is right for they will receive special rewards. The Beatitudes promise blessings that are for eternal life. You may have to suffer pain and/or inconveniences, but the Lord will give the great reward in His time. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in Heaven."
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
Matt. 5:1 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat
down his disciples came to him. 2 And he opened his mouth 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 shall be comforted. 5
"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 6 "Blessed are those
who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 7
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. 8 "Blessed are the
pure in heart, for they shall see God. 9 "Blessed are the peacemakers, for
they shall be called sons of God. 10 "Blessed are those who are persecuted
for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 "Blessed are
you when men 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 so men persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Questions
1. Jesus taught the crowds in today’s Gospel story. How does Jesus teach us
today? Does He teach at Mass? Does He teach at home?

2. Jesus says in the Gospel that the people who are really “blessed” or happy
are those who love Him more than money, who are hurt when others are hurt,
who are gentle, who want what is right, who forgive, who are pure of heart,
who try to make peace and who are willing to be treated badly because they
love Jesus. Do you think so? Why do think Jesus says so? (Remember: He’s
God so he knows it’s true.)

3. Jesus says the pure of heart shall see God. What does it mean to be pure of
heart? Will the pure of heart see God only in Heaven or in this life too?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Family Bible Study - 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
Matt. 4:12 Now when he heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into
Galilee; 13 and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the
territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, 14 that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah
might be fulfilled: 15 "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea,
across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles-- 16 the people who sat in darkness have
seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has
dawned." 17 From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom
of heaven is at hand." 18 As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers,
Simon who is called Peter and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they
were fishermen. 19 And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of
men." 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 And going on from
there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zeb'edee and John his brother, in
the boat with Zeb'edee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. 22
Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him. 23 And he went
about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the
kingdom and healing every disease and every infirmity among the people.
Questions
1. Peter, Andrew, James and John left everything right away to follow Jesus
when He asked them to follow Him. If Jesus were to ask you to follow him as a
priest or as a nun, would you do it?

2. What do you think it means to be a “fisher of men.”

3. Jesus started preaching by saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at
hand.” Who else started his preaching with the same words? (Hint: see Matt
3:2). Why do you think Jesus used the same words?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jesus’ message, as He began His public life, was
simple: “Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand.” That
is always appropriate for all of us. We can look at our
relationship with God and see that He is in our midst. We
can see how we are trying to make Jesus and His way of
life more present in our families and communities.
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Passage
John 1:29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold,
the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he of
whom I said, `After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before
me.' 31 I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptizing with water,
that he might be revealed to Israel." 32 And John bore witness, "I saw the
Spirit descend as a dove from heaven, and it remained on him. 33 I myself
did not know him; but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, `He
on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with
the Holy Spirit.' 34 And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the
Son of God."
Questions for discussion -
1. When he saw Jesus coming toward him, John the Baptist said, “Behold, the
Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Have you ever heard this
saying before?? Who says it? Who is the Lamb of God and where do we see
Him?

2. What does it mean to say that Jesus “baptizes with the Holy Spirit”? Who is
the Holy Spirit? When are we baptized with the Holy Spirit?

3. John the Baptist says that he has seen and borne witness that Jesus is the
Son of God. When have you seen and given witness that Jesus is God’s son? Have you, like John, told others about Jesus?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Sunday Gospel Message - 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him
and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the
sin of the world.” (John 1: 29)
At last the promise, made to Abraham when God
commanded him to leave his home, his country, and his
kin, was fulfilled. The Messiah who would bring blessings
to all mankind had arrived. Eighteen hundred years of
expectation had at last come to an end. During these long
years of waiting, God had, through his prophets and
through his prophetic actions, renewed hope in the hearts
of his Chosen People. These prophecies and prophetic
actions had given indication that the expected one would
be someone very close to God, someone who was more
than a mere man. Yet, who among the Chosen People
could ever have thought that the "Promised One" would
be the very Son of God in human nature?
used with permission - Msgr. Bob Lawrence

Family Bible Study - Baptism of the LORD

Gospel Passage
Matt. 3:13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be
baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be
baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let
it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.”
Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came
up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the
Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice
from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well
pleased.”
Questions for discussion -

1. God the Father says from Heaven about Jesus, “This is my Son, my Beloved,
with whom I am well pleased.” Do you think God, our Father, is well pleased
and happy with you?

2. Why do you think that John the Baptist did not want to baptize Jesus?

3. The day of your baptism is the most important day of your life, because it is
on that day you became a child of God. What day is the anniversary of your
baptism (if you don’t know, you must look it up!)? What could you do to make
this day special in your life?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Family Bible Study - Epiphany of the LORD

Gospel Passage
Matt. 2:1 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise
men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 asking, “Where is the child who has been
born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay
him homage.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem
with him; 4 and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he
inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem
of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: 6 ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the
land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall
come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.’” 7 Then Herod secretly called for
the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. 8
Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child; and
when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him
homage.” 9 When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them,
went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the
child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed
with joy. 11 On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and
they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they
offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a
dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

Questions for discussion -

1. The star helped guide the wise men to the baby Jesus. All of us can be like
that star and help people to find the Lord. How are you doing as a star of God?

2. The wise men traveled very far to be with Jesus. How far would you travel
to see Jesus? How much effort to you and your family make to be with Jesus in
Church through the Holy Eucharist?

3. You receive in Holy Communion the same Jesus whom the wise men adored
in the manger! Do you treat Jesus with the same love and respect they did?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry

Family Bible Study - Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God

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 more than New Year’s Day. It is the feast day of Mary as Mother of
God and Queen of Peace. Mary not only was Jesus’ mother but is our mother
too. Are you a good son or daughter to Mary?

2. Do you ever ask your mother for help? Do you ever ask Mary for help? How
do you think Mary would help you?

3. Why do you think Mary is called “Queen of Peace?” How can we help God
bring peace to the world?
used with permission - Fr. Roger Landry