Thursday, September 22, 2016

Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

The rich and the poor

Reading I: Amos 6:1a, 4–7 (third woe)
Reading II: 1 Timothy 6:11–16 (the good fight of faith)
Gospel: Luke 16:19–31 (the rich man and Lazarus)

Key Passage: There was a rich man and at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table. (Luke 16:19–21)

Adult: What are the “rewards” of caring for the needs of the poor?
Child: What is one thing you and your family could do this week to help those who are poor or sick?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, September 15, 2016

Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

The value of honesty

Reading I: Amos 8:4–7 (against greed)
Reading II: 1 Timothy 2:1–8 (conduct of men and women)
Gospel: Luke 16:1–13 (the dishonest steward)

Key Passage: Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. (Luke 16:10)

Adult: Can cheating and deception ever be justified?
Child: If someone treats you unfairly, do you have the right to do the same to them?
(PastoralPlanning.com

Thursday, September 8, 2016

Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

The courage to forgive

Reading I: Exodus 32:7–11, 13–14 (the golden calf)
Reading II: 1 Timothy 1:12–17 (Paul’s gratitude)
Gospel: Luke 15:1–32 (the prodigal son)

Key Passage: The servant replied, “Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.” Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. (Luke 15:27–28)

Adult
: When have you persistently sought after a member of your family who has lost his or her way?
Child: Have you ever felt you were not getting credit for your good works? What did you do?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Pope's Prayer Intentions for September:

Universal: Centrality of the Human Person
That each may contribute to the common good and to the building of a society that places the human person at the center.

Evangelization: Mission to Evangelize
That by participating in the Sacraments and meditating on Scripture, Christians may become more aware of their mission to evangelize.

Thursday, September 1, 2016

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Discerning God’s will

Reading I: Wisdom 9:13–18a (Solomon’s prayer)
Reading II: Philemon 9b–10, 12–17 (plea for Onesimus)
Gospel: Luke 14:25–33 (sayings on discipleship)

Key Passage: For who can learn the counsel of God? Or who can discern what the Lord wills? For the reasoning of mortals is worthless, and our designs are likely to fail. (Wisdom 9:13–14)

Adult: How do you try to discover what God is asking of you?
Child: When is it hard for you to know the right thing to do? Who helps you know?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Seeking humility

Reading I: Sirach 3:17–18, 20, 28–29 (humility)
Reading II: Hebrews 12:18–19, 22–24a (God the judge; Jesus the mediator)
Gospel: Luke 14:1, 7–14 (a lesson in humility)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” (Luke 14:13–14)

Adult: Has the hunger for status and influence in the world around you endangered your life as a Christian?
Child: Does it make you a better person to be chosen first for a team or some other honor? Why or why not?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, August 18, 2016

Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

The narrow door

Reading I: Isaiah 66:18–21 (gathering of the nations)
Reading II: Hebrews 12:5–7, 11–13 (the discipline of God)
Gospel: Luke 13:22–30 (the narrow door)

Key Passage: Jesus answered them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able.” (Luke 13:24)

Adult: What daily choices are you making that will allow you to be recognized at the doorway of the reign of God?
Child: What good habits are you practicing in order to be a good Christian?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Monday, August 15, 2016

Membership Drive/ Steak Fry

The St Olaf Men's Club will have their annual Membership Drive/ Steak Fry on Tuesday September 13th. If you know other men in the parish who do not currently belong to the Men's Club, please invite them to join us at this social event. Social hour will start at 5:00 PM with dinner being served ( you cook your own steak ) around 6:00 PM. Cost for the event is $10.00 dues ( under 65 years old ) plus $10.00 for your steak dinner.

RSVP requested to :
Mark Brogelman 715-456-9005
Chuck Goethel 715-832-3794
Tom Schwartz at stfalo@att.net


Thursday, August 11, 2016

Grandparents, Grandkids,
Good Deeds and a Great Time
Bowls will be decorated and given back to Feed My People to be used for the Empty Bowl Fundraiser. Bring $1 per person donation to help defray the cost of the painting materials.
Kids, 3+ years are invited but must be with a grandparent or a parent. Join the fun, be creative, all while helping families in our community who struggle with hunger.
No experience necessary. Supplies will be provided.

August 23, 2016
L.E. Phillips Senior Center
1616 Bellinger Street, Eau Claire
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Call (715) 839-4909
to reserve your spot.

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

An unsettling truth

Reading I: Jeremiah 38:4–6, 8–10 (Jeremiah in the miry cistern)
Reading II: Hebrews 12:1–4 (God’s treatment of his sons and daughters)
Gospel: Luke 12:49–53 (Jesus’ mission of division)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division!” (Luke 12:51)

Adult: When has your taking a strong stand on a moral issue created division rather than healing in the short term?
Child: Is it important to do the right thing even if others are angry as a result? Why or why not?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Tuesday, August 2, 2016

Pope's Prayer Intentions for August

Universal: Sports
That sports may be an opportunity for friendly encounters between peoples and may contribute to peace in the world.

Evangelization: Living the Gospel
That Christians may live the Gospel, giving witness to faith, honesty, and love of neighbor.

Thursday, July 28, 2016

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Seeking balance

Reading I: Ecclesiastes 1:2; 2:21–23 (on vanity)
Reading II: Colossians 3:1–5, 9–11 (mystical death and resurrection)
Gospel Luke 12:13–21 (trust in God, not in possessions)

Key Passage: And Jesus said to them, “Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15)

Adult: When have you felt that possessions were becoming too important in your life?
Child: Have you ever received a gift you wanted a lot and then found it didn’t make you as happy as you thought it would?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, July 21, 2016

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Daily prayer

Reading I: Genesis 18:20–32 (Abraham intercedes for Sodom)
Reading II: Colossians 2:12–14 (sovereign role of Christ)
Gospel: Luke 11:1–13 (the Our Father)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.” (Luke 11:9)

Adult: Have your most recent prayers been prayers of praise, petition, or sorrow? Which kind of prayer do you need to practice more often?
Child: What are you most thankful for right now?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, July 14, 2016

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Holy Visitors

Reading: I: Genesis 18:1–10a (Abraham’s visitors)
Reading: II: Colossians 1:24–28 (the mystery: Christ in us)
Gospel: Luke 10:38–42 (Martha and Mary)

Key Passage: Jesus said to Martha, “There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42)

Adult: Which response to God’s call is more natural to you—prayer or action? Why?
Child: In the past week, when have you prayed and when have you done good things for others? Which could you do better?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Friday, July 8, 2016

Prayer

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Acting with mercy

Reading I: Deuteronomy 30:10–14 (God’s command clear)
Reading II: Colossians 1:15–20 (Christ’s fullness and reconciliation)
Gospel: Luke 10:25–37 (the good Samaritan)

Key Passage: But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. (Luke 10:33–34)

Adult: When have you gone out of your way to help a stranger in need?
Child: Would you help a new student who needed help? Why or why not?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Accepting the Christian message

Reading I: Isaiah 66:10–14 (mother Zion)
Reading II: Galatians 6:14–18 (the cross, our true boast)
Gospel: Luke 10:1–12, 17–20 (mission of the seventy–two)

Key Passage: Jesus said to the disciples, “Whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.’” (Luke 10:10–11)

Adult: Where do you see the message of Christian faith being rejected in the world today? What is your response to that?
Child: What can you do when you are generous with others, and they do not want what you give them?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, June 23, 2016

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Don’t look back

Reading I: 1 Kings 19:16b, 19–21 (call of Elisha)
Reading II: Galatians 5:1, 13–18 (proper use of freedom)
Gospel: Luke 9:51–62 (the apostles’ requirements)

Key Passage: Another said, “I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” Jesus said to him, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:61–62)

Adult: When have you faltered or looked back during your journey of faith?
Child: What can you do to be a stronger follower of Jesus this week?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Thursday, June 16, 2016

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Calming life’s storms

Reading I: Zechariah 12:10–11 (messianic Jerusalem)
Reading II: Galatians 3:26–29 (one in Christ Jesus)
Gospel: Luke 9:18–24 (followers of Jesus)

Key Passage: Then Jesus said to them all, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

Adult: Which crosses in your life do you find especially heavy? What or who helps you bear them?
Child: When you have something hard to do, what or who helps you get through it?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Thursday, June 9, 2016

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

The courage to forgive

Reading I: 2 Samuel 12:7–10, 13 (David’s punishment and repentance)
Reading II: Galatians 2:16, 19–21 (Paul’s basic teaching)
Gospel: Luke 7:36—8:3 (the penitent woman)

Key Passage: Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” (Luke 7:48–49)

Adult: Whom does your Christian faith call you to forgive right now? How hard will this be for you?
Child: When is it hard for you to forgive someone who has hurt you? What can help you forgive?
(From: PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, June 2, 2016

Tenth Sunday in Ordinary, Year C

Time Moved with pity

Reading I: 1 Kings 17:17–24 (Elijah and the widow)
Reading II: Galatians 1:11–19 (Paul called by Christ)
Gospel: Luke 7:11–17 (the widow’s son)

Key Passage: As Jesus approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow; and with her was a large crowd from the town. When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” (Luke 7:12–13)

Adult: What might a greater sense of compassion allow you to do for someone this week?
Child: When did you try to understand what another person was feeling?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Pope's Prayer intentions June 2016

Universal: Human Solidarity

That the aged, marginalized, and those who have no one may find–even within the huge cities of the world–opportunities for encounter and solidarity.

Evangelization: Seminarians and Novices

That seminarians and men and women entering religious life may have mentors who live the joy of the Gospel and prepare them wisely for their mission.

Thursday, May 26, 2016

Body and Blood of Christ, Year C

Service to others

Reading I: Genesis 14:18–20 (Melchizedek’s blessing of Abram)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 (the Lord’s Supper)
Gospel: Luke 9:11b–17 (multiplication of the loaves)

Key Passage: For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:23–24)

Adult: When have you been most blessed and when have you felt a little “broken” in your service to others?
Child: Why is it important to keep on giving, even when you are tired?
(from PastorlaPlanning.com)


Thursday, May 12, 2016

Pentecost, Year C

Gifts for service

Reading I: Acts 2:1–11 (descent of the Holy Spirit)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 12:3–7, 12–13 (many gifts, one Spirit, and the analogy of the body)
Gospel: John 20:19–23 (appearance to the disciples)

Key Passage: Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord. (1 Corinthians 12:4–5)

Adult: What gift of service have you received from the Holy Spirit and how well are you using it right now?
Child: What gift do you hope to receive from the Holy Spirit? How could you use it to serve others?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Thursday, May 5, 2016

The Ascension of the Lord, Year C

Reading I: Acts 1:1–11 (Jesus’ final instructions and ascension)
Reading II: Ephesians 1:17–23 (a Spirit of wisdom)
Gospel: Luke 24:46–53 (the ascension)

Key Passage: Ephesians 1:17 (a Spirit of wisdom)

Adult: Who in your family has the gift of wisdom? How does he or she use this gift?
Child: Who is the wisest person you know? What has he or she taught you?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Monday, May 2, 2016

The Pope's Prayer Intentions for May 2016


Universal: Care for the suffering
That, rejecting the culture of indifference, we may care for our neighbors who suffer, especially the sick and the poor.

Evangelization: Openness to mission
That Mary’s intercession may help Christians in secularized cultures be ready to proclaim Jesus.


Friday, April 29, 2016

Sixth Sunday of Easter, Year C

Keeping Jesus’ word

Reading I: Acts 15:1–2, 22–29 (letter of the Apostles to the Gentiles)
Reading II: Revelation 21:10–14, 22–23 (the new Jerusalem)
Gospel: John 14:23–29 (last discourse; faithfulness to God’s word)

Key Passage: Jesus answered him, “Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” (John 14:23)

Adult: What difference has it made in your life when you made a decision in accord with Jesus’ teachings?
Child: When will you have to make a decision this week? What will help you make a good decision?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Friday, April 22, 2016

Fifth Sunday of Easter, Year C

Love one another

Reading I: Acts 14:21–27 (end of the first mission)
Reading II: Revelation 21:1–5a (new heavens and new earth)
Gospel: John 13:31–33a, 34–35 (a new commandment)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” (John 13:34)

Adult: When have you seen the power of love overcome a bad situation?
Child: Do you believe love is stronger than hate? Why?
from PastoralPlanning.com)


Thursday, April 14, 2016

Fourth Sunday of Easter, Year C

Protected by Christ

Reading I: Acts 13:14, 43–52 (Paul’s and Barnabas’ address to the Gentiles)
Reading II: Revelation 7:9, 14–17 (rejoicing of the elect of every nation)
Gospel: John 10:27–30 (words at the feast of the dedication of the temple)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.” (John 10:27–28)

Adult: Whom do you try to protect as Christ protects you?
Child: Who helps you feel safe and protected? Whom can you take care of and help feel safe?
from PastoralPlanning.com)


Thursday, April 7, 2016

Third Sunday of Easter, Year C

Feed my sheep

Reading I: Acts 5:27b–32, 40b–41 (disciples’ second trial before the Sanhedrin)
Reading II: Revelation 5:11–14 (praise to the Lamb)
Gospel: John 21:1–19 (appearance at the Sea of Tiberias)

Key Passage: When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” (John 21:15)

Adult: In what ways are you answering Jesus’ command to Peter to “feed my sheep”?
Child: What do you do to take care of others as Jesus asked Peter to do?
(from PatoralPlanning.com)


Friday, April 1, 2016

The Pope's Prayer Intentions for April 2016

Universal: Small Farmers
That small farmers may receive a just reward for their precious labor.

Evangelization: African Christians
That Christians in Africa may give witness to love and faith in Jesus Christ amid political-religious conflicts.


Thursday, March 31, 2016

Second Sunday of Easter, Year C

Living without fear

Reading I: Acts 5:12–16 (signs and wonders)
Reading II: Revelation 1:9–11a, 12–13, 17–19 (first vision)
Gospel: John 20:19–31 (appearance to the disciples; Thomas)

Key Passage: He placed his right hand on me, saying, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living one. I was dead, and see, I am alive forever and ever.” (Revelation 1:17b–18a)

Adult: When has your faith in the living Christ helped you overcome fear?
Child: What could you do this Easter season to help someone feel less afraid?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Easter Sunday, Year C

Made new by Christ

Reading I: Acts 10:34, 37–43 (Peter’s discourse)
Reading II: Colossians 3:1–4 (mystical death and resurrection). Or 1 Corinthians 5:6–8 (the yeast of sincerity and truth)
Gospel: John 20:1–9 (Peter and the disciple at the tomb)

Key Passage: Clean out the old yeast so that you may be a new batch, as you really are unleavened. For our paschal lamb, Christ, has been sacrificed. (1 Corinthians 5:7)

Adult: What change could the hope of the resurrection of Christ inspire you to make?
Child: What bad habit would you like to “clear out” during the hopeful time of this Easter season?
(PastoralPlanning.com │ Questions of the Week for Cycle C)

Triduum

Holy Thursday
Called to serve

Reading I: Exodus 12:1–8, 11–14 (the Passover ritual prescribed)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 (the Lord’s Supper)
Gospel: John 13:1–15 (the washing of the feet)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “If I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:14–15)

Adult: What is the most difficult thing you have done as a service to another person?
Child: What is the hardest thing you have ever done for another person who needed your help?
PastoralPlanning.com │ Questions of the Week for Cycle C)


Good Friday
Perfection through suffering

Reading I: Isaiah 52:13—53:12 (suffering and triumph of the servant of the Lord)
Reading II: Hebrews 4:14–16; 5:7–9 (Jesus, compassionate high priest)
Gospel: John 18:1—19:42 (the passion of our Lord Jesus Christ)

Key Passage
: When you make his life an offering for sin, he shall see his offspring, and shall prolong his days; through him the will of the Lord shall prosper. (Isaiah 53:10)

Adult: Can you say that you have grown through your experiences of physical or emotional suffering? Why or why not?
Child: How can the story of Jesus’ suffering make it easier for you to face something painful or uncomfortable?
(PastoralPlanning.com │ Questions of the Week for Cycle C)


Holy Saturday
(Vigil)
New life in Christ

Reading I: Genesis 1:1—2:2 (first story of creation)
Reading II: Genesis 22:1–18 (the testing of Abraham)
Reading III: Exodus
14:15—15:1 (crossing of the Red Sea and destruction of the Egyptians)
Reading IV: Isaiah 54:5–14 (the new Zion)
Reading V: <i>Isaiah 55:1–11 (an invitation to grace)
Reading VI: Baruch 3:9–15, 32—4:4 (wisdom prayer in the Law of Moses)
Reading VII: Ezekiel 36:16–17a, 18–28 (regeneration of the people)

Epistle: Romans 6:3–11 (death to sin, life in God)
Gospel
: Luke 24:1–12 (the women at the tomb)

Key Passage
: Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. (Romans 6:4)

Adult: What benefits has the new life of baptism brought to your life?
Child: If someone who was not a Christian asked you what difference it makes to be baptized, what would you say?
(PastoralPlanning.com │ Questions of the Week for Cycle C)

Friday, March 18, 2016

Passion (Palm) Sunday, Year C

Love and betrayal

Reading I: Isaiah 50:4–7 (salvation only through the Lord’s servant)
Reading II: Philippians 2:6–11 (imitating Christ’s humility)
Gospel Luke 22:14—23:56 (the passion of Jesus)

Key Passage: The Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times.” (Luke 22:61)

Adult: When have you felt that you betrayed the confidence of another, as Peter did when he denied Jesus?
Child: When have you let someone down who trusted you? How did you feel?
(from Pastoral Planning.com)

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Fifth Sunday of Lent, Year C

False pride

Reading I: Isaiah 43:16–21 (promise of restoration)
Reading II: Philippians 3:8–14 (breaking with the past)
Gospel: John 8:1–11 (the adulteress)

Key Passage: Jesus straightened up and said, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8:7)

Adult: Have you ever been too willing to “cast the first stone” when you disapproved of someone’s behavior? How can you resist these feelings?
Child: When have you criticized or made fun of someone? What could help you act differently?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Friday, March 4, 2016

Fifth Sunday of Lent, Year C

False pride

Reading I: Isaiah 43:16–21 (promise of restoration)
Reading II: Philippians 3:8–14 (breaking with the past)
Gospel: John 8:1–11 (the adulteress)

Key Passage: Jesus straightened up and said, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8:7)

Adult: Have you ever been too willing to “cast the first stone” when you disapproved of someone’s behavior? How can you resist these feelings?
Child: When have you criticized or made fun of someone? What could help you act differently?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Third Sunday of Lent, Year C

Tempered with humility

Reading I: Exodus 3:1–8b, 13–15 (the call of Moses)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 10:1–6, 10–12 (against overconfidence)
Gospel: Luke 13:1–19 (calls to penance; parables of the reign of God)

Key Passage: The reign of God is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches. (Luke 13:19b)

Adult: What important work could bear fruit in your life right now if you have more confidence in God’s loving care?
Child: What great work would you like to do as you grow older? What can you do to begin now?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Thursday, February 18, 2016

Second Sunday of Lent, Year C

Transformed by Christ

Reading I: Genesis 15:5–12, 17–18 (the covenant with Abram)
Reading II: Philippians 3:17—4:1 (Christ our goal)
Gospel: Luke 9:28b–36 (Jesus transfigured)

Key Passage: But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 3:20)

Adult: How are your priorities affected by your faith in Jesus Christ?
Child: When you have important choices to make, do you and your family pray to make the right choice?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Thursday, February 11, 2016

First Sunday of Lent, Year C

Salvation through faith

Reading I: Deuteronomy 26:4–10 (thanksgiving for the Lord’s goodness)
Reading II: Romans 10:8–13 (the faith of the Christian)
Gospel: Luke 4:1–13 (temptation in the desert)

Key Passage: For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

Adult: How willing are you to profess your faith in Jesus Christ openly to others?
Child: Would you still be able to say that you believe in Jesus if others made fun of you for it?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)


Wednesday, February 10, 2016

40 Prayers for 40 Days for Children

During Lent take time to talk with God every day. It won’t take long and you will pray for someone or something different each day.

February 10 – Pray for Father Paul
February 11 – Pray for all teachers
February 12 – Pray for our president and congressional leaders
February13 – Pray for Pope Francis
February 14 – Pray for children waiting to be adopted
February 15 – Pray for the homeless
February 16 – Pray for the police and the firefighters
February 17 - Pray for those who are suffering
February 18 - Pray for your friends from church
February 19 - Pray for Deacon Bob
February 20 - Pray for doctors and nurses
February 21 - Pray for military veterans
February 22 - Pray for all priests and deacons
February 23 - Pray for newborn babies
February 24 - Pray for all the Saints
February 25 - Pray for you own personal intention
February 26 - Pray for your classmates
February 27 - Pray for your neighbors
February 28 - Pray for those who are lonely or sad
February 29 - Pray for your school principal
March 1 - Pray for new classmates at your school
March 2 - Pray for Bishop Callahan
March 3 - Pray for someone who feels left out
March 4 - Pray for faith formation leaders
March 5 - Pray for those actively serving in the military
March 6 - Pray for family members
March 7 - Pray for someone who is scared
March 8 - Pray for someone who has passed away
March 9 - Pray for volunteers at your church
March 10 - Pray for children that have a sick mom or dad
March 11 - Pray for your relationship with Jesus
March 12 – Pray for someone who is sick
March 13 - Pray for your grandparents
March 14 - Pray for your parents
March 15 - Pray for senior citizens
March 16 - Pray for your godparents
March 17 - Pray for all world leaders
March 18 - Pray for those who are hungry
March 19 - Pray for adults who are unemployed and looking for work
March 20 - Pray for someone who has hurt your feelings
March 21 - Pray for your best friend
March 22 - Pray for children living in places of war
March 23 - Pray for moms and dads that have lost a child
March 24 - Pray for all the people at your church

Friday, February 5, 2016

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Stretching our limits

Reading I: Isaiah 6:1–2a, 3–8 (call of Isaiah)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 15:1–11 (Christ’s resurrection)
Gospel: Luke 5:1b–11 (call of the first disciples)

Key Passage: Simon Peter fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” (Luke 5:8,10b)

Adult: When have you felt inadequate to a task or role you were given? How did you respond?
Child: When have you been asked to do something you felt might be too hard for you? What did you do?
from PastoralPlanning.com

Monday, February 1, 2016

Pope Francis' prayer intentions for February 2016

Universal: Care for Creation - That we may take good care of creation–a gift freely given–cultivating and protecting it for future generations.

Evangelization: Asia - That opportunities may increase for dialogue and encounter between the Christian faith and the peoples of Asia.



Thursday, January 28, 2016

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Facing rejection

Reading I: Jeremiah 1:4–5, 17–19 (prophet consecrated to God)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 12:31—13:13 (love never fails)
Gospel: Luke 4:21–30 (beginning of preaching; rejection by the townspeople)

Key Passage: They got up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they might hurl him off the cliff. But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way. (Luke 4:29–30)

Adult: What do you do when a message you are trying to deliver “falls on deaf ears”?
Child: Are there times when you have not listened as well as you could to what someone was telling you? Why didn’t you?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Thursday, January 21, 2016

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Accepting responsibility

Reading I: Nehemiah 8:2b–4a, 5–6, 8–10 (Ezra reads the Law)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 12:12–30 (analogy of the body)
Gospel: Luke 1:1–4; 4:14–21 (beginning of Jesus’ preaching)

Key Passage: Jesus unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.” (Luke 4:17b–18a)

Adult: What do you believe that the anointing you received at baptism requires you to do?
Child: What could you do this week for someone who has less than you?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Friday, January 15, 2016

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Thinking of others

Reading I: Isaiah 62:1–5 (Jerusalem the Lord’s bride)
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 12:4–11 (variety and unity)
Gospel: John 2:1–12 (the wedding at Cana)

Key Passage: When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” (John 2:3)

Adult: When have you stepped in, as Mary did at Cana, to try and make a difficult situation easier for someone?
Child: What can you do this week to help make someone’s job a little easier?
(from PatoralPlanning.com)

Friday, January 8, 2016

Baptism of the Lord Pleasing to God

Reading I: Isaiah 42:1–4, 6–7 (the servant of the Lord)
Reading II: Acts 10:34–38 (Peter’s discourse; the good news of peace)
Gospel: Luke 3:15–16, 21–22 (baptism of Jesus)

Key Passage: And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:2)

Adult: Do you think that God was “well pleased” by your actions in recent weeks? Why?
Child: What good thing could you do this week that would be pleasing to God?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)