The Commemoration of All the Faithfully Departed (All Soul's Day)

Reading 1: Wisdom 3:1-9; Reading 2: Romans 5:5-11 or 6:3-9; Gospel John 6:37-40

Discussion Questions for Reading 1: What does it mean to be "at peace" in your family? at school?

Discussion Questions for Reading 2: Why is Baptism a source of new life? Discuss how Baptism is both a dying and a rising to new life.

Discussion Questions for Gospel: What is your image of Eternal Life? Does your image motivate you to live as Jesus taught? Who of your family and friends has gone before you to Eternal Life? Do something in memory of those people today.
(from: http://www.sadlierreligion.com/webelieve/weeksliturgy.cfm?id=400)

Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A

Social responsibility

Reading I: Isaiah 45:1, 4-6 (rewards to Cyrus, king of Persia)
Reading II: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5 (a model for believers)
Gospel: Matthew 22:15-21 (paying tax to the emperor)

Key Passage: At that [Jesus] said to them “Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (Matthew 22:21)

Adult: How much responsibility do you feel the government should take for meeting the needs of the less fortunate in our society? How willing are you to contribute?
Child: Who needs help in your neighborhood or community? What could you and your family do to help?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A

Living our faith

Reading I: Isaiah 25:6-10 (a feast for all peoples)
Reading II: Philippians 4:12-14, 19-20 (generosity)
Gospel: Matthew 22:1-14 (the wedding banquet)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “Many are invited, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:14)

Adult: How do you translate your faith into the work of the Reign of God?
Child: What three things can you do this week to show that you are a follower of Jesus?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)

Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A

Dealing with injustice

Reading I: Isaiah 5:1-7 (the vineyard song)
Reading II: Philippians 4:6-9 (joy and peace in Christ)
Gospel: Matthew 21:33-43 (parable of the tenants)

Key Passage: Jesus said, “Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that will produce its fruit.” (Matthew 21:43)

Adult: How have you used your talents and abilities well for the Reign of God?
Child: What can you do in your week to help the love of God grow in the world?
(from PastoralPlanning.com)