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9/25/22 - Lazarus and the Rich Man - Cycle C

Dear Families,

This Sunday Jesus tells us a parable about a rich man and a beggar named Lazarus.  While they were alive, the rich man had everything he wanted, but Lazarus the poor man, lay by the rich man’s gate.  The rich man never gave him anything.

Eventually both men died.  Lazarus the poor man went to heaven and the rich man did not.  The rich man realized too late that he only thought of himself and had been selfish.   Jesus wants us to help the poor and suffering people around you.  He wants us to see the suffering and listen to the cry of the poor.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What are some ways God wants us to care for our world and for people?  What are some things you share with others?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us to not be selfish.  May we treat others as you would treat them.  Amen

 

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1/15/23 - Lamb of God - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, when Jesus came to the Jordan River to be baptized, John the Baptist points to Jesus and testifies that he is the Lamb of God, who will take away the sins of the world, the son of God, who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.

 

John the Baptist knew his mission.  He prepared the way for Jesus by asking people to repent of their sins, and pointing towards Jesus.  He knew that Jesus is the Lamb of God.  As John preached, we should repent of our sins, and like him we also need to show others the way to Jesus. 

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
As a disciple of Christ, what do you think is your mission in life?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us live our baptismal call with love and service to one another.  Amen.

 

 

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7/9/23 - King of Peace - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells us, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest.”  Jesus is telling us that God, Our Father, understands when we are worn out.  He knows when we are burdened with problems, are tired at work, at school.  He teaches us that when we pray and share our burdens with him, they become lighter.

 

God wants us to go to him when we need to rest, and open our minds to his wisdom and love.  When our hearts rest in God we experience peace.  When we experience this peace, it is then shared with love and compassion for others.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
Do you go to God when you are troubled?

 

Family Prayer:  Dear Jesus in our times of trouble, let us always share our burdens with you.  Amen.

 

 

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1/21/24 - Jonah, Jesus, and the New World - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus calls four fishermen to leave their boats and follow him.  Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John immediately leave their boats and follow him.  They become Jesus’ first disciples and gave their whole lives to spreading the Good News of Jesus and the message of God’s love.

 

Like the disciples we are all called to follow Jesus.  Jesus invites all of us to follow him immediately.  When we are called to share the message of God’s love with someone, we are not to hesitate.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What would you have to leave behind to follow Jesus?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, thank you for loving us and for choosing us to be your followers.  Help us to listen to you and follow you.  Amen.

 

 

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12/11/22 - John Asks About Jesus - Cycle A

Dear Families,

 

In this Sunday’s Gospel, John the Baptist questions if Jesus is the one that God has promised will come.  Jesus answers the question by naming some of his miracles, which were prophesied by Isaiah and are signs of God’s salvation.  Jesus affirms that John is a prophet sent to prepare everyone for his own arrival.  Jesus message to John tells us not only who he is but also to repent of our sins and follow him. 

This week is the third Sunday of Advent.  This is the week we light the pink candle.  It is Gaudete Sunday, a day to Rejoice Jesus is coming.  By preparing for his coming, we will bring the message of his joyful coming to others.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.

How can you share the good news of Jesus coming and bring joy to others?

Family Prayer:  God, we thank you for many blessings.  Help us to be blessings to others.  Amen.

 

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12/4/22 - John the Baptist - Cycle A

Dear Families,

 

This is the second week of Advent, and in this week’s Gospel; John the Baptist encourages people to turn to God with their whole hearts.  He baptizes many people who desire a better relationship with God.  John shares that God is sending a holy and mighty person who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire.

 

We can turn to God with our whole hearts by repenting and turning away from sin.  During this Advent season, reflect on poor choices you have made and ask for God’s forgiveness.  This is how we can prepare our minds and hearts and welcome Jesus at Christmas.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What can you do this week to strengthen your relationship with God?

 

Family Prayer:  Thank you, Jesus for welcoming us into your family.  Help us to make choices that bring us closer to you.  Amen.

 

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2/4/24 - Job and Jesus - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus visits the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John.  Simon’s mother-in-law is sick and Jesus cures her.  She immediately begins to serve Jesus and his disciples.  When it was evening, all the ill and possessed by demons gathered at the door of Simon and Andrew’s house.  Jesus healed them of diseases and drove out demons.  After having a busy evening, Jesus woke up early the next day.  He went to a deserted place and spent time praying to God.

 

We need to spend time with God in prayer.  Even if we are busy serving him in a ministry, we still need to take time to talk with Our Father in heaven.  Like Jesus, take time each day to go to a quiet place, pray and ask God to guide and direct your life.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How does Jesus make a difference to people in need?  How do you make a difference to people in need?  Do you have a quiet place to pray?

 

Family Prayer:  Loving God, we ask you to bless friends, family, neighbors, and members of our parish who are sick or suffering.  Please help them to trust that you are with them and that you will always love them.  Amen.

 

 

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10/30/22 - Jesus' Visit Changes Zacchaeus - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel, we hear about a tax collector, Zacchaeus.  As we learned last week, tax collectors were dishonest and people did not like them.  Zacchaeus being short and probably not wanting to be seen climbs onto a tree for a better view of Jesus.  Jesus see Zacchaeus, calls him by name and asks that he be invited to stay at his house.  People did not approve of Jesus going to a sinner’s house, but Jesus told them that he had come to save the people who were lost in sin, he wants everyone to come to him.  Zacchaeus filled with the joy that Jesus was visiting him, changes, and he asks for forgiveness.  Jesus shows him love and forgiveness.  Zacchaeus promises to help the poor and pay everyone back for what he had stolen.  Like Zacchaeus we are sinners.  Jesus calls us to recognize our sins and wants us to make things right.  He seeks us and wants to forgive us.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How does Zacchaeus change because Jesus becomes his friend and goes to his house?  Have you ever felt really bad because of something you did?  Do you think there is any sin that Jesus can’t forgive?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help me accept you as my friend.  Help me make room for you in every area of my life.  Amen.

 

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11/3/24 - Jesus' Great Commandment - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In today’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus is questioned by a scribe about which was the first of the ten commandments.  Jesus told him that the first is to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.  Second to love others as much as we love ourselves.

 

Jesus teaches us that love is the commandment that sums up all the others.  To love God, we praise God, and thank God. To love our neighbor as we love ourselves, is to treat others as we would like to be treated.  When we love the way Jesus teaches, we are showing our love for God and shining the light of God’s love on others.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What do you do with your whole heart, mind or strength?  How does love of neighbor reflect love for God?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us not to get caught up in our business and forget to put you first.  Amen.

 

 

Amor Love 2024 En Es

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7/21/24 - Jesus: Shepherd and King - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In last week’s Gospel of Mark, we heard Jesus send his disciples to preach and heal in his name.  In today’s Gospel, we hear what happens when they return.  The Apostles were very tired and hungry.  Jesus told them to take a break, but the crowds found out and followed them.  Even though they were tired, Jesus and his Apostles were moved with pity and continued to help the people.  Jesus is aware that the crowd of people are like sheep without a shepherd and he begins to teach them.

 

Family demands can make us feel tired like Jesus and the twelve apostles.  It isn’t easy to help others when we are tired. Follow Jesus and bring your concerns to him.  Just as he was moved when he saw the crowd as sheep without a shepherd, he will hear you and guide you as your Shepherd.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and ask each other this question.
How do you find the energy to do the things you need to do when you are tired?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, we know your grace is sufficient for whatever we need to do.  Please help us turn to you when we need to rest and when we need strength.  Amen.

 

 

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1/29/23 - Jesus Wants Us To Be Happy - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus gives us the Beatitudes.  Jesus tells us that we are “blessed” when we are sad, meek, looking for righteousness, poor in spirit, merciful, and even when people are mean to us because we believe in God.  We also learn something else important:  Jesus wants us to listen to what he says and learn from him.

 

People can be rich in material things, successful, or famous and not consider themselves blessed or happy.  The Beatitudes are blessings that tell us how Jesus wants us to live.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
Who does God bless according to Jesus?

 

Family Prayer:  Dear Jesus, help us to listen and learn the things you want us to know.  Give us the grace to live out the Beatitudes.  Amen.

 

 

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10/16/22 - Jesus Tells Us to Keep Asking - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel, Jesus tells a parable (story) to show his disciples that they should never get discouraged about praying.  He tells them a story about a widow’s case who was being ignored by a judge.  The widow persists in seeking her rights and the judge has little reason to care about her rights.  The widow keeps coming back and bothering him so he finally knows she will keep bothering him and grants her request.

Jesus’s parable invites us to recognize that God will be better than the judge about answering our prayers.  The Gospel invites us to imitate the widow in asking always and repeatedly for what we need.  When we persist in prayer, and ask for what we need or want, God helps us to see which things and people really matter to us and how we can help.  Jesus teaches us that we must pray always and never get discouraged.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions?
What do you ask God for when you pray?  How do you know that God hears your prayers?

Family Prayer:  Lord we will try harder to pray often.  Show us how to be patient when we pray.  Amen.

 

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11/27/22 - Jesus Tells Us to Be Ready - Cycle A

Dear Families,

 

This Sunday is Advent, the first day of our new Liturgical Year.  During Advent we remember Jesus’ first coming but we also need to think about Jesus’ second coming.  The message from this Sunday’s Gospel is get ready.  Jesus is coming again.  No one knows when Jesus will come again.  Advent gives us the opportunity to change and to live each day as we would want to live if we knew that Jesus would return that day.  Let us all remember that this world and this life are only temporary.  We have something greater to look forward to, being with Jesus in Heaven.

 

During this Advent season let us prepare each day for the day of Jesus’ second coming by listening to his words, and understanding his message of hope, love, joy and peace.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.

What are some ways your family gets ready for Christmas?  In what way does your family get ready for Jesus’ second coming?

 

Family Prayer:  God, help us to make room in our home and our hearts to welcome Jesus.  Amen.

 

Advent En

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2/13/22 - Jesus teaches the Beatitudes - Cycle C

Dear Families,

Jesus tells us, blessed are the poor, hungry, sad, and excluded, but woe to those who are rich, fed, laugh, and are famous.  This Sunday’s Gospel turns people’s ideas about being happy upside down, it disrupts our ideas of success.  We may think that being rich and full are signs of happiness and success, but they are not.  Happiness comes from sharing what we have, comforting people who are sad and laughing with people not at them. 

Jesus gives us a list of attitudes and actions that help people find real happiness, called the Beatitudes.  He teaches us we are all God’s children, called to belong to God’s family and to care for each other.  We are called to welcome and care for the poor, share what we have with them, and comfort people who are sad.  These actions that bring people together are important in God’s kingdom. 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What is Idolatry?  How is the way Jesus teaches us to live different from the way the world often tells us to live?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to desire things that are holy and good.  Help us to resist valuing things only because our culture tells us they are important.  Amen

 

 

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2/12/23 - Jesus Teaches God's Law - Cycle A

Dear Families,

Jesus continues with his Sermon on the Mount in this Sunday’s Gospel.  Jesus shares the difference between the law of Moses (The Ten Commandments) and his new law of love.  He said that he didn’t come to take away the law.  He came to fulfill the law.  Jesus says that the Ten Commandments are very important, but we must act from a place of love, not just obedience.

 

One of the Ten Commandments is “you shall not kill”.  Jesus teaches that to obey this Commandment is not enough.  Not only don’t kill, but don’t be violent.  Not only don’t be violent, but don’t even think violent thoughts against one another.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What is Jesus’ attitude toward the Ten Commandments?

 

Family Prayer:  Thank you, Jesus for giving us rules to guide us. Help us to follow them as you want us to.  Amen.

 

 

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2/27/22 - Jesus Speaks in Images - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us by creating images we can picture in our minds.  A blind person cannot lead the blind, a rotten fruit tree cannot produce fruit, and how can you see a speck in your brother’s eyes if you have a beam in your own eye.

Jesus is saying that when a person hears his words, they will understand his teachings.  When we go to Mass, study Sacred Scriptures, and pray, our hearts will be opened to apply his teachings to others.  To lead the blind, bear good fruits, and be forgiving, we need to seek training in the ways of Christ and his Church.  Being a disciple of Jesus means that we show our love for God in what we say and do.

As a family watch video in its entirety than ask each other these questions.
What does it mean to be a good disciple?  How do we need to learn?  How are we to act?

Family Prayer:  Lord, open our eyes to see what you want us to learn, and open our ears to hear your teachings.

 

TheBlind En

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2/20/22 - Jesus Says Love Your Enemies - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us to be kind even to those who are not kind to us.  This is very difficult, but if we want to be like Jesus, we need to love our enemies, and those who would hurt us.  Jesus is teaching us about mercy. Mercy is treating others, not as they deserve, but as God wishes them to be treated.  God’s love is given to both the saint and sinner.  Jesus loved everyone, even those who crucified him.  We should try our best to be like him.  Next time someone is mean to you ask Jesus to help you forgive that person.  Jesus calls us to treat others in the way we want to be treated.

As a family, watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Do you need to ask forgiveness from God or another person?  What is holding you back from doing so?

Family Prayer:  Lord, we find it hard to be kind when someone is not kind to us.  Help us to see others as you do, so that we will not be tempted to judge them or be unkind.

 

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11/20/22 - Jesus Rules with Forgiveness and Love - Cycle C

Dear Families,

 

This Sunday is the end of our liturgical year and we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King.  When Jesus was on earth many of his followers thought he would be the ruler of an earthly kingdom, rule and have soldiers.  Instead, Jesus is crucified and made fun of, and they write on a sign above his cross, “This is the King of the Jews”.  Jesus is mocked and hangs between two thieves and is ridiculed by one for not saving them and himself, but the other defends Jesus.  He asks Jesus to remember him and Jesus promises that they will be in Heaven together.

 

Today’s Gospel invites us, like the good thief on the cross to recognize that Jesus is indeed King and savior of all.  Let’s recognize that the Cross is a place of trust, where Jesus accepted his death for our salvation.  Jesus’ Resurrection shows that his actions for forgiving, sharing, and loving have power stronger than death for all of us.  He is, “Christ the King”, our savior.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.

What kind of King is Jesus?  How does Jesus lead us?  How do we ask Jesus for forgiveness?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, you are our King and there is no other.  Help us to follow your example of forgiveness.  Amen.

 

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4/3/22 - Jesus Refuses to Condemn - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus urges teachers of the law to help people grow rather than condemn them.  The teachers bring to Jesus a woman whom they have caught committing a very serious sin.  According to the law this sin is punishable by her being stoned to death.  Instead of telling them that they should punish her according to the law, Jesus told them that they should only punish her if they themselves had never sinned.  They all walked away because they have all sinned.  The accused woman had sinned and she was left alone before Jesus.  Jesus told the woman, go and do not sin again.  He was merciful.

Jesus teaches us to not be mean to people we know have sinned.  We should try to be merciful like Jesus, and we should be kind to sinners because we are sinners too.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
When has forgiveness given you a new start? How do you show mercy to others?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to see our faults, before looking at the faults of others.  Amen

 

 

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3/26/23 - Jesus Raises Lazarus - Cycle A

Dear Families,

This Fifth Sunday of Lent Jesus hears that his friend Lazarus is very sick, and when he returns to see Lazarus he has been dead for four days.  His sisters Mary and Martha are very sad and Martha asks him why didn’t he come sooner?  He could have healed Lazarus.  Jesus said to Martha your brother will rise again.  Yes, on the last day she replies.  Do you believe that people who believe in me die, but that I give them life forever?  She replies that he is God’s son.  Jesus asks where he was buried and when he sees the tomb he weeps with the others.  Jesus asks that the stone on the tomb be moved.  He prays and commands Lazarus to come out from the tomb.  He raises Lazarus from the dead.  News of Jesus’ raising Lazarus travels fast.  Many people come to believe in him, but many others are questioning his miracles and actions.

 

When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, he shows us his power over death.  We believe that by Jesus’ death and Resurrection, he conquered death and won eternal life for us.  Our faith calls us to be like Martha and Mary, and believe that Jesus is the Resurrection and eternal life.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Why do you think Jesus wept?  When someone loses a loved one, how can you comfort them in their sorrow?  Do you ever think of Jesus weeping with you when you are sad?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus you are the Resurrection and the life.  Help us to live a life of compassion and trust.  Amen.

 

 

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5/22/22 - Jesus Promises to Send the Holy Spirit - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus promises his disciples that he will send the Holy Spirit after he was gone.  They would never be alone; the Holy Spirit would teach them.  God the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Holy Trinity, would come to them and guide them in what they needed to do to continue his teachings.

Jesus’ promise is still with us today.  The Holy Spirit is always working with us.  He inspires all of us to do what is right, learn the truth, and share our faith.  He is the perfect teacher and knows what we need to learn and the best way to teach it to us.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What is the Holy Spirit teaching you?  How does the Holy Spirit teach you?

Family Prayer:  Come Holy Spirit, help us to learn what God needs us to know.  Amen.

 

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11/13/22 - Jesus Promises To Be With Us - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus gives us a message of hope, he tells us not to be afraid.  He promises to be with us in the sicknesses, deaths, wars, disasters, and persecutions that will happen before he comes again in glory.

 

Because of our faith in Jesus, we are able to stand firm during difficult times.  Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus helps us work for justice, peace, and to support one another.   When we stand firm in our faith, and focus on Jesus, we live with the hope of everlasting happiness with God in Heaven.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.

What things do you worry about?  How does Jesus help us with our worries?  What hope does Jesus give us?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, we ask you for your help when things get difficult.  Help us to be there for one another.  Amen

 

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5/14/23 - Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sundays Gospel of John, Jesus tells his disciples that if they love him, they will obey his commandments. 

He promises them that even though he is going back to God the Father he will not abandon them, because they will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit to help them understand God’s truth and love.  The Holy Spirit will help them continue to obey his commandments and spread God’s message of truth and love to others.

 

Jesus has also given us the gift of the Holy Spirit, whom we received at Baptism.  When we call in prayer the Holy Spirit, he will help us understand God’s love for us, follow Jesus, and share his truth and love with others.

 

As a family watch video in is entirety and then ask each other this question?
How am I aware of the Holy Spirit of love and truth in my life?

 

Family Prayer:  God thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, and for all the people who help us live as Jesus disciples. Amen.

 

 

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5/12/24 - Jesus Prays for His- Cycle B

Happy Mother’s Day!

 

This week I am sending a video on you tube from the Gospel of John 17:1-26.

 

The Gospel video is just after Jesus shared the Last Supper with his friends the disciples.  He knew he was about to go to the cross.  He prayed for his friends the disciples and asked God to unite, protect, and guide them.  It is very important to understand that when Jesus was praying for his disciples, he was praying for us too.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What are the three things Jesus asks God when he prayed for his friends the disciples and us?

 

Family Prayer:  Dear Lord, pray to help us live with God’s presence in the world.  Unite, protect, and guide us always.  Amen

 

 

JesusPraysForDisciples 2024 En Es

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7/2/23 - Jesus Our Priority - Cycle A

Dear Families,

This Sunday’s Gospel of Matthew sounds confusing.  We are to love Jesus more than our parents, and children or else we are not worthy of his love.  The word to look at is more, Jesus is asking us to place our love for him above all others, not instead of others.  Remember that our families are gifts from God.  God gave our families to us because he is the giver of every good gift.  Jesus knows that it is not easy to follow him, he tells us that we are to give his love to others without expecting anything in return.  The way to do this is by putting his love in our hearts first and follow him.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Do we love someone more than Jesus, and choose not to follow Jesus?  Are we dead to sins and alive with God?

 

Family Prayer:  God, thank you for the gift of family.  Help us choose you first so that we may receive the grace to share your love, peace and kindness with one another.  Amen.

 

 

Jesus Priority En Es

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4/30/23 - Jesus is the Good Shepherd - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us that he is the Shepherd that opens the gate for his sheep, and he protects them from robbers who will climb over the fence.  The sheep will be led by their Shepherd’s voice and only listen to it.  They will run away from a stranger’s voice.

 

Jesus is our shepherd at the gate of the Church.  When we celebrate as a community at Mass, we are there as his sheep.  He gives us the grace to hear his voice, and not those voices that want to rob us of our faith and trust in him.  He knows each one of us, wants to protect us, keep us safe, and give us eternal life with God.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Who cares for you?  Who has shown you how to help others?  How does Jesus, the Good Shepherd, care for his sheep?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, thank you for being our Good Shepherd.  You know us by name, care for us, and love us.  Help us take care of one another through loving thoughts and actions.  Amen.

 

 

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4/9/23 - Jesus is Risen - Cycle A

Dear Families,

Happy Easter.  Alleluia, Jesus is Risen.  This Sunday is a day when we rejoice, Jesus is alive!

 

In this Sunday’s Gospel of John, Mary Magdalene discovers that Jesus’ tomb is empty, she runs and tells Simon Peter and Jesus’ beloved disciple that Jesus is missing, where could they have put him?  She does not consider that Jesus has been raised from the dead.  The disciples are slow to recognize the significance of Jesus’ empty tomb.  As we continue our 50-day Easter season, we will learn how they come to realize that Christ is still with them.

 

During this Easter season we learn more about how the disciples came to believe that Jesus had been raised from the dead.  In the days ahead let us reflect on Jesus’ empty tomb, and see the risen Christ in our lives.  Remember every day “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.”

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
How do you share the Good News of Jesus’ Resurrection with others?

 

Family Prayer:  Alleluia!  We are filled with joy that Jesus has been raised from the dead.  Help us, God, to share our joy with others. Amen.

 

 

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5/7/23 - Jesus Is Our Way to God - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus tells his disciples not to let their hearts be troubled.  To have faith in him.  He declares “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”  He is the way to the Father in Heaven.  Whoever knows him knows God.  They learn that whoever believes in him will be able to do the work that he did and greater ones.

 

Let us all remember that we are not to be troubled.  Jesus loves us.  He tells us that when we know him, and believe in him we are on the path to God in heaven.  Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.  Through him we find eternal life and when we share these truths, he tells us we are able to do his work and more.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Why does Jesus tell his disciples to have faith in him?  What does Jesus ask of his followers?  Do you follow Jesus?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, you are the way, the truth, and the life.  Help our hearts not be troubled and trust you in all things.  Amen.

 

 

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5/8/22 - Jesus Is Our Good Shepherd - Cycle C

Dear Families,

Sunday’s Gospel helps us recognize that we are part of God’s family.  Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice.”  We are his sheep.  He also tells us that he and the Father are one.  We know God the Father because we know Jesus.  Likewise, when others meet us, they should see Jesus in us.

As a family watch video in its entirety then ask each other this question.
How can you show Jesus to others through your words and actions?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us to be like you.  So that when others meet us, they see you in us.  Amen

 

 

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4/17/22 - Jesus is Alive! - Cycle C

Dear Families,

Alleluia, Christ is Risen!  It’s Easter Sunday and we rejoice that Jesus has come back to life.  We rejoice because we have received the gift of salvation through his Death and Resurrection.  Jesus loves us so much that he died on the cross to take away our sins.  He came back to life again so that we could have eternal life and be with him forever.  Let’s experience his gift of joy, hope, and peace always.

“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!” (Psalm 118:24)

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How would I feel if I discovered the tomb was empty?  What would I do?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, thank you for coming to be our Savior.  We praise your goodness and joyfully sing Alleluia at the news of your Resurrection.  Amen

Happy Easter!

 

 

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10/9/22 - Jesus Heals Ten Lepers; One Thanks Him - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus meets ten lepers who beg to be healed.  Leprosy is a horrible disease that eats away at a person’s body until they die.  Jesus filled with compassion heals all ten.  However, only one comes back to thank him.  And the one who returns is a Samaritan, a foreigner.  Samaritans were not liked by the Jewish communities because of their differences.  Jesus praises the Samaritan for his gratitude and tells him that his faith has saved him

A lesson we learn in this Gospel has to do with salvation and being thankful for all the amazing things God does for us.  He made you and gave you everything you need to live.  Jesus shows how he loves all people, even those we think are outsiders.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What is something you took for granted this week?  What do you thank God for?

Family Prayer:  Lord, we thank you for all of the ways that you have healed and helped us.  We will try harder to not take you for granted.  Amen.

 

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Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel Jesus calls Andrew, Simon (Peter), James and John to leave their jobs as fishermen and to follow him.  When God calls, we must be ready to drop everything and follow.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. What would you have to leave behind to follow Jesus?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to follow you because you know what will make us truly happy.  Amen

 

Jesus gathers followers

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Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel Jesus calls Andrew, Simon (Peter), James and John to leave their jobs as fishermen and to follow him.  When God calls, we must be ready to drop everything and follow.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. What would you have to leave behind to follow Jesus?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to follow you because you know what will make us truly happy.  Amen

 

Jesus gathers followers

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3/6/22 - Jesus Faces Temptation - Cycle C

Dear Families,

Sunday’s Gospel reveals Jesus as fully human and fully divine.  The devil tempts Jesus in the desert, promising him human power and earthly goods.  Jesus shows us how to resist temptation by holding tightly to the promises of God found in Sacred Scripture.

This week is the first Sunday of Lent.  Lent is a special time when we prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection.  We prepare through Prayer by talking with God; Fasting by giving things up not just food; Almsgiving by giving generously to those who are in need.

As a family watch video in its entirety than ask each other these questions.
What are some temptations you experience?  How does the Church help you to strengthen yourself against them?

Family Prayer:  Pray the Lord’s Prayer together.  Focus on the words “lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.”

 

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2/26/23 - Jesus Chooses God - Cycle A

Dear Families,

It is the first Sunday of Lent, and in the Gospel the devil tells Jesus to prove that he is the Son of God.  Jesus after not eating for forty days resists the temptations of the devil.   Jesus quotes God’s words to the devil and chooses not to turn stones to bread, jump off high buildings, or take worldly power.

 

We learn from Jesus that when we are tempted, we too can resist temptation by knowing the word of God.  For example, when the devil told Jesus to turn the stones to bread, Jesus told him that scripture says that people need more than food to live.  They also need the words that God speaks.  Like Jesus we have the power to choose good.  God gave us the free will to make choices.

 

Lent is a time to grow in holiness.  Learn God’s word (Scripture).  Do things that will help you think about God every day.  It is a time to pray (extra prayers).  Give up something you like to eat or do (fasting).  Give to others who need our help (almsgiving).

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What does Jesus mean when he says people do not live on bread alone?  What are some choices you will make for Lent?

 

Family Prayer:  God, we make difficult choices every day.  Help us to make loving, safe, and healthy choices.  Amen.

 

 

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6/23/24 - Jesus Calms the Storm - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus is in a boat sleeping with his Apostles when a big storm came up and they were afraid they were going to sink.  They wake him and ask him if he is not afraid, they will sink.  Jesus stops the storm and asks them “Why are you terrified?  Do you not yet have faith?”

 

There are many times and reasons as to why we worry and are afraid.  Remember, that whatever storms we face in our lives, when we have faith and trust Jesus his peace will calm our storms.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
When you are afraid, do you remember that Jesus is with you?  How can Jesus help you when you are afraid?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, increase our trust in you when we are afraid.  Amen.

 

 

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2/6/22 - Jesus Calls His Followers - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to the crowd from Simon’s boat.  After speaking, Jesus asks Simon who had been fishing all night to cast out his nets again.  Simon questions him but does as he is instructed, and to his surprise catches many fish!  So many fish that other boats were signaled to come and help because their nets were tearing.

When Simon saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and says “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.”  Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men” and from that day forward the fishermen Simon, James, and John leave their fishing boats and follow Jesus.

Jesus calls us to follow him too.  One way that we follow Jesus is by telling others about him.  Jesus speaks the same message to us today to be fishers of men for his Kingdom.  God wants others to see the light of Christ in us in the way we live, speak, and witness the joy of the gospel. 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Like Simon (who would be called Peter), do you have feelings of unworthiness that make you afraid to approach God?  What do you do with that fear?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, you remind us that we shouldn’t be afraid and that you have a mission for us too.  Help us to be open to sharing our faith with others.  Amen

 

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1/22/23 - Jesus Calls His First Disciples - Cycle A

Dear Families,

This Sunday in the first part of Matthew’s Gospel, he shows us that Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophecies given to the people by Isaiah in the Old Testament when he says that the Messiah will begin his ministry in Galilee, the land of the Gentiles.  He will bring light to the land where there was darkness.  Jesus fulfills this prophecy.  He preaches in Galilee saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

 

As Jesus is walking by the Sea in Galilee he calls his first disciples Peter, Andrew, James and John.  He calls them while they were working as fishermen.  He offers to teach them how to become fishers of men and share the news of God’s Kingdom, his light and love for everyone.  They immediately leave what they were doing and follow him.  Through Jesus teachings, miracles, and healings they see the Kingdom of God.

 

Like the first disciples, let us become followers of Jesus and make following him our first priority.  On our journey as disciples, Jesus teaches us how to follow him and bring the Kingdom of God to all those we encounter.  Trust that God will show us the way and guide us.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
How do we bring the Kingdom God to our families, friends, and neighbors?

 

Family Prayer:  Dear Lord, reveal your presence of love in our hearts and to hear your voice.  Help us always put you first in all that we do and bring the Kingdom of God to all we encounter.  Amen.

 

 

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Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel, Jesus calls his first disciples.  They were disciples of John the Baptist.  John directs two of them, one named Andrew to follow Jesus, the Lamb of God.  They follow Jesus and spend the day with him.  The next day Andrew brings his brother, Simon, to meet Jesus.  When we have had an encounter with Christ, we should bring our friends to connect with him.  Jesus calls us to be his friends and follow him.  He calls each of us to be his disciple.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. How can I introduce one of my friends to Jesus?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us remember that you are our friend.  Show us how to introduce other friends to you.  Amen

 

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6/18/23 - Jesus Calls Us to Bring in the Harvest - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel Jesus chooses twelve apostles to continue his ministry.  He explains that there is a big harvest and few laborers.  Jesus is not speaking about fruits or vegetables; he was sending them out to bring his ministry of love and healing to people.

 

Many laborers are needed out in the field.  Jesus calls all of us to bring his love to our families, neighbors, schools, and work.  We need to understand that there are still many people suffering and need healing.  Don’t be scared to do Jesus’ work.  When you are a good example to others, and show kindness, you are doing his work.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
How can you bring Jesus’ healing love to others?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us be faithful workers by sharing with others your healing love.  Amen.

 

 

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3/3/24 - Jesus at the Temple - Cycle B

Dear Families,

For the next three Sundays when you attend the 9:00AM or 11:00AM mass you will be listening to the Cycle A Gospel Readings.  This is because we have adults who will be receiving their Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.  As a community, we will be reflecting with them on their journey towards their Sacraments of Initiation. This week, we listen to the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman and his living water.  Let us all ask ourselves, in what area in my life am I thirsting for Jesus’ living water?

 

This video is based on the Cycle B, Gospel of John.  Jesus goes to the Temple and is angry at the people who are using the Temple for profit rather than for love of God.  When Jesus is asked to give a sign as to who gives him the authority to drive these merchants out of the Temple.  Jesus answers “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up again.”

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What Temple is Jesus talking about?  When you are in church are you aware of Jesus Temple?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, during this time of Lent help us draw closer to you by praying, fasting, and giving.  Amen.

 

 

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5/1/22 - Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples - Cycle C

Dear Families,

This Sunday’s Gospel tells us about the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples and shares a meal with them after his Resurrection.  Jesus disciples had been fishing all night but caught nothing.  In the morning they see a man who tells them to lower their nets again.  They catch many fish!  John recognizes him, “It is the Lord,” he told Peter.  Hearing this, Peter jumped into the water and swam to meet Jesus on the shore.  Jesus makes them breakfast and eats with them.

Jesus fed his disciples, and he continues to feeds us.  The Risen Christ feeds us with his Body and Blood at every Mass.  Jesus is present with us at every Eucharist, in every word of the Gospel, and whenever we join together in prayer.  Jesus surprises us as he surprised his disciples out fishing.  We find him with us when we don’t expect him or when we have little hope.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How do you recognize Jesus in the Mass?  In other people?  In some other way?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us recognize your presence in our lives today.  Help us recognize and pray for the physical and emotional needs of others.  Feed us all when we need nourishment and encouragement.  Amen

 

 

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10/27/24 - Jesus and Bartimaeus - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel of Mark, a blind man called Bartimaeus called out to Jesus to cure him.  The crowd around him try to silence him, but Bartimaeus keeps persisting by calling out louder.  Jesus hears Bartimaeus, approaches him, and asks him what he wants.  Bartimaeus responds that he wants to see.  Jesus tells Bartimaeus that his faith has saved him and heals him of his blindness.

 

Jesus teaches us that to be persistent about bringing our needs to him when we are hurting, lonely, or sad.  Jesus wants us to have so much faith in him that we should not let anyone stop us from calling out to him.  He loves us, and he is always there to help us.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What do you want Jesus to heal for you?  Do you believe that he can heal you?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, sometimes we don’t even recognize that we need healing.  Help us to see where we might be broken and humbly ask you to heal us.  Amen.

 

 

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9/10/23 - Is Judging Wrong - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, we learn how Jesus knew that disagreements would happen.  Even when we love and care for our friends and family members, we have disagreements.  Jesus teaches us that when we disagree with someone, we should speak to them first.  If that person isn’t willing to listen and solve the disagreement we might need to ask for help from other people.

 

When you have a problem with another person, pray to Jesus.  Pray that he will help you be calm, listen to the other person, and bring peace to the situation.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How do you handle disagreements?  What can you learn from Jesus’s teaching on how to handle disagreements?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us have loving and forgiving hearts so that we may always live in good relationships with others.  Amen.

 

 

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8/14/22 - I have come to set the earth on fire! - Cycle C

Dear Families,

Jesus continues to teach us that true disciples love God above all else.  In this Sunday’s Gospel, it is difficult to understand what Jesus said to his disciples: “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!  Jesus is speaking about the flame he wants blazing in our hearts with his love.   He also says that he has come not only to bring peace but also division.  He wants his disciples to understand that faith is not understood by everyone, and some will be against it.  Our faith requires us to make hard choices.  Being a follower of Jesus means we wouldn’t make a bad choice just to have friends or make someone else happy.

Following Jesus is not easy, but good choices help us have peaceful hearts and minds.  A true disciple loves God above all relationships and things.

Watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What has Jesus brought to your family and friends, division or peace?  Why?

Family Prayer: “Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in us the fire of your love.”  Amen

 

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12/29/24 - Holy Family Jesus, Mary, and Joseph

Dear Families,

 

In this Sunday’s Gospel, at the age of 12 Jesus, Mary, and Joseph were on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem for the Jewish feast of Passover, an event where family and friends traveled together each year.  On their way back home, they realized Jesus was not with them.  They were worried when they could not find Jesus with any of their families or friends.  After three days they found Jesus when they went back to the Temple.  When they found him and they told him how concerned and anxious they were, Jesus asked them why were they concerned since he was in his Father’s house, but he was obedient and returned with them to Nazareth.

 

As a family watch reflection video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What makes our family holy?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, Mary and Joseph pray for us. Amen

 

 

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12/8/24 - He Is Coming

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Luke, John the Baptist told people Jesus was coming to save them.  He shared the Good News of Jesus, and we should too.  John gave hope to people.  He was not afraid to talk about Jesus’ coming and to encourage people to turn away from sin. 

 

As a family, watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
In what ways can you share Jesus with others?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to recognize what hurts your heart and have the courage to work to change it.  Amen.

 

 

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7/16/23 - God's Word Grows in Good Soil - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells the parable of the sower and the seeds.  He teaches about the different types of soils the seeds fall on and compares them to how we listen to the Word of God.  The seeds are all the same, but depending on how each person receives the message it grows different.  Jesus wants us to be like good soil so the seeds of God’s Word can grow strong.

 

When we open our hearts to the Word of God, our faith grows.  Jesus teaches us that the kingdom of heaven is like seed that has been sown on good soil.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What are some things we can do so that we are like good soil, and grow in God’s Word?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, we pray that we will become the good soil needed for God’s Word to take deep root in our hearts.  Amen.

 

 

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8/20/23 - God's Love Is For Everyone - Cycle A

Dear Families,

Sunday’s Gospel is often misunderstood.  Jesus is not saying the Canaanite woman is a dog; he is trying to explain to her that she is not a person who was raised in faith.  The woman believes Jesus can cure her daughter, she is persistent and continues to ask.  Jesus sees her faith and cures her daughter.

 

Like the woman, let’s bring our needs to God in prayer with confidence and faith.  Like Jesus, let us be merciful and kind to everyone who is ignored and considered an outsider.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How does the Canaanite woman show her faith?  How can we have faith like hers?  What does Jesus teach us?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, sometimes it can feel as though you cannot hear us.  Help us to keep asking for help and be patient, knowing you will answer our prayers at the right time.  Amen.

 

 

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11/17/24 - God's Kingdom - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus tells his disciples what will happen at the end of the world.  It’s scary to hear, the sun and moon will stop shining and the stars will fall down.  But we do not need to fear, because he will come back among the clouds and send out his angels and gather all those that have stayed close to him to live with him forever.  He also tells his disciples that only the Father will know when this will happen.

This week’s Gospel, is a reminder we should prepare for Jesus’ coming every day.  Jesus tells us that we don’t know when he will return, so we must be ready at all times.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.

What can you do every day this week to show Jesus he is welcome in your home and heart?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us make loving choices every day as we wait for your return.  Amen.

 

 

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9/3/23 - God Forbid! - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In last week’s Gospel, Peter tells Jesus he is the son of the living God.  This week Peter tells Jesus God forbid he shall suffer when he hears Jesus predict his death.  Jesus who had just given Peter authority in the Church, scolds Peter for his lack of trust.  Even someone as important as Peter needs to be corrected.  Peter would learn that if he wanted to be like Jesus, he would have to trust Jesus, pick up his cross, and follow him.

 

Jesus never said it would be easy to follow him.  Sometimes it is easy to be a disciple of Jesus.  Other times it is difficult to follow Jesus.  During difficult times we need to trust Jesus.  Faithful disciples are called to sacrifice and serve others as Jesus did.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Have you ever behaved like Peter and been an obstacle to others in their following Jesus?  How does God use others to correct you or teach you?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to think of others before ourselves.  With God’s love, let our little crosses of each day be offered up to you for the love of others.  Jesus, I trust in You.  Amen.

 

 

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10/22/23 - God and Caesar - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Matthew, some religious leaders want to trap Jesus into taking sides on the question of paying Roman taxes.  They believe that accepting Roman rule in their country means they are not loyal to God and his rules.  Jesus tells them to give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.  Jesus calls them and us to obey both civil and religious laws, however, we need to examine our allegiances when the two conflict.

 

We have God’s laws and government laws.  Both are for our own good.  But we need to remember that what is most important is to love and honor God first.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What allegiance do we owe to God?  What allegiance to Caesar?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us to always remember to keep God first in our lives. Amen.

 

 

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Dear Parents,

In this Sunday’s Gospel Jesus tells Nicodemus that as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert to save the grumbling Israelites who had been bitten by snakes, the son of man must be lifted up.  Jesus is the light of the world and whoever looks at Him lifted up on the cross and believes in Him will be saved. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life” (John3:16).

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.

How can you reflect the light of Christ to others?

Family Prayer:  Lord, keep us close to the light of Christ and help us avoid the darkness of sin.  Amen

 

 

Jesus lifted up on the cross

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Dear Parents,

This Sunday is called Good Shepherd Sunday because Jesus tells His friends that He is the Good Shepherd who will lay down His life for His sheep.  He explains that a hired shepherd runs away when a wolf comes.  A hired shepherd only wants to be paid.  Jesus says, “I know my sheep, and they know me.”  He tells us that we belong to Him and He will lay down His life for us.  Jesus reminds us how important we are to Him, so important that He died and rose so we can go to Heaven someday.

This week our video is a reflection on the First Reading and the Gospel.  As a family, watch video in its entirety and ask each other these questions:  How is Jesus like a good shepherd?  How are you like a good shepherd?

Family Prayer:  Teach us Lord, to hear your voice and answer you.  Amen

 

 

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12/19/21 - Fourth Sunday of Advent - Cycle C

Dear Families,

 

On this fourth Sunday of advent, our Gospel reading recalls Mary’s actions after the announcement by the Angel Gabriel of Jesus birth and her cousin Elizabeth’s pregnancy.  Mary immediately decides to visit her cousin Elizabeth.  When Elizabeth hears Mary’s greeting, the baby (John the Baptist) leaped with joy in her womb.  She was filled with the Holy Spirit and Elizabeth gives us the words that are central to the Hail Mary “Blessed is the fruit of your womb.”  The mystery of the Incarnation, God taking on human flesh by the Virgin Mary.  Both Mary and Elizabeth show how to trust God’s word that Mary would become the mother of Jesus and rejoiced in God’s blessings.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.

In what way can you imitate Mary and help bring Jesus to others?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, teach us to love your mother, Mary, like you do.  Amen.

 

 

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Dear Families,

Last Sunday, we saw Jesus perform great miracles moved by the faith of people.  The raising of Jairus’ daughter and the healing of the woman with a hemorrhage.  This Sunday is quite different.  People in Jesus’ hometown could not see who he really was.  They only recognized the person they remembered from when he was younger.  Because of their lack of faith, he did not perform many miracles.

As a family watch video in its entirety and ask each other this question.

Why did the people in Jesus’ hometown have trouble seeing him as the Messiah and doubted he could do miracles?

Family Prayer:  Dear Jesus, it is normal to doubt things sometimes.  Please help us to look past our doubt and trust in you for everything.  Amen

 

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6/26/22 - Following Jesus - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus gives us a message: “Follow me.”  We can do this by putting Jesus first in all we do.  We love our families.  We are grateful for our homes.  Those things are gifts, and God is the gift-giver.  We should love the giver more than the gifts.

As a family watch video in its entirety then ask each other these questions.
What did Jesus say to the three people who wanted to follow Him?  When we have a choice to make will we put Jesus first?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to remember that every good thing comes from you.  Amen

 

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Dear Parents,

After Jesus is baptized, he is led into the desert by the Holy Spirit and for 40 days he was tempted by Satan.  Jesus was among wild animals and angels ministered to him.  During Lent, we too need to be led by the Holy Spirit and remember the vows of Baptism in which we promise to reject sin and follow Jesus.  Just as Jesus was ministered by the angels, God also supports us in our struggles against sin and temptation.  Therefore, let us hear, listen, and act to what Jesus proclaims, “This is the time of fulfillment.  The kingdom of God is at hand.  Repent and believe in the Gospel.”

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions. Do you believe that Jesus will help you do what’s right when you are tempted?  How does the Holy Spirit help you live as a follower of Jesus?

Family Prayer:  Holy Spirit, help us to make good choices as followers of Jesus.  God, send your angels to minister to us the way you sent them to minister to Jesus in the desert. Amen

 

 

temptation of jesus

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11/28/21 - First Sunday of Advent - Cycle C

Dear Families,

Advent means “coming” it is a season of promises.  We remember how long people waited for God to send the promised Messiah.  We remember Jesus’ promise to be with us always.  We wait for Jesus and his promise to come again in glory.

This Sundays Gospel tells us to be ready for Jesus Second coming.  It contains a strong message for us to not be distracted by problems or our own bad behaviors while we wait.  Jesus wants us to be good to others and ourselves while we prepare for his return.

Watch video in entirety and then ask each other this question. 
What are ways to prepare for Jesus coming in glory?

Family Prayer:  Lord, we want to become the people you created us to be.  Give us the grace to work on those things we need to correct or improve.  Amen

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

No one knows when Jesus will come back, but we know we will see him face-to-face someday. As we eagerly await Christmas and the celebration of Jesus’ birth, we remember that we should always be waiting for Jesus.

As a family watch video in its entirety then ask each other this question. When you are waiting for someone, how do you fill the time?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us to pay attention to your words and teachings. 

Help us to follow you always.  Amen

 

advent1 eng

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Parents,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus tells his followers that unless a grain of wheat is planted into the ground the seed remains just a single grain.  But, when a grain of seed falls to the ground and dies, the seed produces many other grains of wheat.  It produces a harvest. 

Jesus compares himself to a grain of wheat that needs to die.  In his death and resurrection Jesus gives his life on the Cross.  This sacrifice brings salvation to all his people and offers us the promise of eternal life.

When we become the seed for others, we join with Jesus in a process that transforms our lives and the world.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.

Planting seeds means doing positive things.  What seeds have you planted this week? 

How can you be like a seed and help increase faith in others?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to put you first, seek your will, and help others grow in faith.  Amen

 

 

grain of wheat

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Parents,

In this Sunday’s Gospel Jesus tells us He is the vine and we are the branches.  He explains that we can only grow in faith and do the right things if we stay close to Him.  Jesus will correct and guide us, just as a gardener prunes and tends a garden so it will grow strong.

Jesus calls us to grow good fruit with our lives.  We grow fruits of love, kindness, patience, and goodness when we stay connected to Jesus.  We do this by listening to Jesus’ teachings, following his example, and praying.

As a family, watch video in its entirety and ask each other this question:

How can you stay connected to Jesus, like branches are connected to a vine?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us to find ways to stay close to you so we can grow in faith and love.  Amen

 

 

vinebranches

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9/22/24 - Feeling Jealous? - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus explains that he will suffer and die, but the disciples are too afraid of what he is saying to question him about it.  Instead, they begin to argue on which one of them is the most important.  Jesus knew what they were talking about, so he tells them that if they want to be first, they must be humble, be last and serve others.

 

Jesus teaches us that what is most important is not having the best things or being best at something.  We learn that when we freely love and serve others, we are great in God’s eyes.

 

As a family watch video and then ask each other this question?
How can you serve others and help them with the difficulties they are experiencing?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to see you when we see people in need.  Amen.

 

 

FeelingJealous 2024 En

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9/4/22 - Family, Friends or God - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus talks about hating our families.  You are probably thinking, but I thought Jesus didn’t want us to hate anyone?  He does not want us to hate.  What Jesus is telling us is that we should love God more than we love the people closest to us.  God wants us to stay close to the people we love, but Jesus is telling us that to follow God we need to put him first.  This means that we should be ready to do what God wants even if it means losing our family or best friends.

It can be very difficult and require sacrifice to do what is right, and to choose between doing what Jesus teaches us or keeping friends.  People might make fun of us and reject us.  We are so blessed that Jesus is so honest with us, and teaches us how to be ready to give up anything or anyone that would stop us from following him.

As a family, watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Why do you think it would be difficult to follow what Jesus teaches?  What sacrifices would you make to follow Jesus?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, when it is difficult to follow you, help us to remember what you sacrificed to save us.  Amen

 

JesusB4everything En

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

10/2/22 - Faith The Size Of A Mustard Seed - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, when the apostles ask Jesus to increase their faith, he tells them that with a tiny bit of faith they could do amazing things.  He showed them a tree and told them that if they had faith as tiny as a mustard seed, they could tell the tree to move from the land into the sea and it would!

But what is faith?  Faith is believing in God’s love for us, his goodness and trusting him.  Faith in God is a gift he gives us so that we can believe in Him.  God gives us the gift of faith but it’s up to us to use it.  There are many people who don’t have a tiny bit of faith.  They don’t feel God loves them, they do not feel God is looking after them and they try to do things on their own and their lives spin out of control.

We use our gift of faith when we decide to obey, trust and believe in God’s love for us.  We put our faith into action when we help those in need and do not expect anything in return.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
According to Jesus, how much faith is enough?  What are some of the little things that each of us do for our family that make a big difference?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help our family open our hearts to your love so that we grow in our faith.  Amen.

 

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9/15/24 - Faith or Works? - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus asks his disciples who do people say that he is, and they respond saying John the Baptist, Elijah, or a prophet.  But then he asks them, “who do you say that I am”?  Peter replies “You are the Christ.”  Then Jesus teaches them that he will be rejected by many, suffer and die on the cross.  Peter who doesn’t understand rebukes Jesus.  Jesus tells Peter he is thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.  He then tells the disciples and the crowd that whoever wishes to follow him must take up their cross and follow him.

 

As human beings we have our own expectations of God and what should be happening in our world.  God’s plan is always more than what we can imagine.  Jesus loved us so much that he suffered and died for us.  Trust, that Jesus is always with us to help us carry our cross when we follow him and offer our lives in service to others.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What does Jesus mean when he says we must take up our cross and follow him?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, teach us to believe in you and trust in you completely, even when it seems difficult.  Amen.

 

 

FaithorWorks 2024 En

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1/2/22 - Epiphany of the Lord- Cycle C

Dear Families,

This Sunday we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord.  The Gospel tells us about the Magi.  They were three wise men from the East that had seen a special star rising up in the sky and traveled to Jerusalem.  They asked to meet with King Herod and asked him where was the child who had been born King of the Jews because they wanted to do him homage.  Herod was very upset with this question.  He was already the King of the Jews.  He was upset someone would take away his power.  Herod asked the Magi to let him know when they found him because he too wanted to do homage.  But secretly he wished to learn his whereabouts so he could kill him.

The Magi followed the star to Bethlehem until it stopped over the place where the Child Jesus was.  They bowed to the ground and did homage, and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.  During the night they had a dream telling them not to go back to Herod, so they went back to their country taking another road.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What gift can you give Jesus that shows your love for God and others?

Family Prayer:  Lord, like the Magi help us to seek and worship you as our King.  Amen.

 

 

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

This Sunday we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord.  Epiphany is a Greek word that means “unveiling” where something is revealed.    After Jesus was born, Magi came to see him from far away in the east.  The Magi had studied the stars and saw a special star.  They knew it meant a new king had been born so they followed the star to Bethlehem, it led them to Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. When they saw Jesus, they got down on their knees and worshiped Him.  They gave him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. They were not Jewish, but these foreigners honored Jesus as a King.  On the Feast of the Epiphany, we celebrate that Jesus is revealed not just to the Jewish people, but to the world.  God revealed love for all people by sending us his Son.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.  What does the story of the Magi teach us?  What gift can you bring to Jesus that shows your love for God and others?

Family Prayer:  Lord Jesus, may Your light shine our way to  you as it once guided the steps of the Magi, so that we too may be led into Your presence to honor and worship You.  Amen

 

epiphany

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1/8/23 - Epiphany of the Lord

Dear Families,

This Sunday we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord.  The Gospel tells us about the Magi.  They were three wise men from the East that had seen a special star rising up in the sky and traveled to Jerusalem.  They asked to meet with King Herod and asked him where was the child who had been born King of the Jews because they wanted to do him homage.  Herod was very upset with this question.  He was already the King of the Jews.  He was upset someone would take away his power.  Herod asked the Magi to let him know when they found him because he too wanted to do homage.  But secretly he wished to learn his whereabouts so he could kill him.

The Magi followed the star to Bethlehem until it stopped over the place where the Child Jesus was.  They bowed to the ground and did homage, and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.  During the night they had a dream telling them not to go back to Herod, so they went back to their country taking another road.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What gift can you give Jesus that shows your love for God and others?

Family Prayer:  Lord, like the Magi help us to seek and worship you as our King.  Amen.

 

 

TheMagi En

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

1/5/25 - Epiphany of the Lord

Dear Families,

 

This Sunday we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord.  The Gospel tells us about the Magi.  They were three wise men from the East that had seen a special star rising up in the sky and traveled to Jerusalem.  They asked to meet with King Herod and asked him where was the child who had been born King of the Jews because they wanted to do him homage.  Herod was very upset with this question.  He was already the King of the Jews.  He was upset someone would take away his power.  Herod asked the Magi to let him know when they found him because he too wanted to do homage.  But secretly he wished to learn his whereabouts so he could kill him.

 

The Magi followed the star to Bethlehem until it stopped over the place where the Child Jesus was.  They bowed to the ground and did homage, and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.  During the night they had a dream telling them not to go back to Herod, so they went back to their country taking another road.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What gift can you give Jesus that shows your love for God and others?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, like the Magi help us to seek and worship you as our King.  Amen.

 

 

The Magi 2025 En

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 (La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus uses two parables to tell us about the Kingdom of God.  In the first parable, the seeds planted grew into a healthy crop of grain, but it took many days and nights.  In the second parable, the mustard seed which is the size of a teeny dot on a sheet of paper grows into a tree.  Both these parables focus on seeds.  Seeds sown take time to grow.  When things take a long time to happen, we have to be patient and have faith.  When we learn about our faith and practice it well, it will grow so that everyone will see its effect in our lives.  We must sow seeds by spreading his words.

God wants us to know that if we live as Jesus tells us, we can look forward to happiness with God in the Kingdom of Heaven.

As a family watch video in its entirety and ask each other this question:

What actions start small but can grow into larger things?

(Good: kindness, love, forgiveness)

(Bad: anger, not forgiving, judgment)

Family Prayer:  Jesus help us to grow in faith, love, positive attitude, and kindness.  Amen

 

what is faith en

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3/31/24 - Easter Sunday

Dear Families,

Happy Easter!  In today’s Gospel we learn that Mary Magdalene is the first person to arrive at the tomb and finds it empty.  She runs and tells two disciples.  When Simon Peter and the other disciple arrived at the tomb, they too see that it is empty.

 

Today we celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection.  Alleluia!  Jesus Christ is risen!  Alleluia!

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
How might I share my belief in Jesus’ Resurrection with others?

 

Family Prayer:  Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.” Amen.

 

 

Easter Sunday En

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6/25/23 - Do Not Be Afraid - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells his twelve apostles to not be afraid.  Do not be worried.  They would be challenged by the world because of their belief, but He assures them that God knows, loves, and protects them.  God their Father even knows how many hairs they have on their heads.

 

What Jesus says to his Apostles reminds us that we should always remember how much God knows, loves, and protects us.  He knows us and sees even little things we might fear or worry about.  We don’t need to live in fear, because God our Father is always with us.  Do not be afraid.  Share God’s love and care with those around you.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Do you share God’s love with others?  What do you hear in this Gospel when you are afraid to share God’s love with others?

 

Family Prayer:  Dear Lord, help us to not be afraid to spread the message of God’s love to others.  Amen.

 

 

WhatYouAfraid En

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4/24/22 - Divine Mercy Sunday - Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus appears to his disciples who are afraid and behind locked doors.  Jesus greets them with the words “Peace be with you.”  Then he breathes on them, imparting the Holy Spirit, and tells them that whose sins they forgive are forgiven.  Jesus words to his disciples highlight the Sacrament of Reconciliation and they are empowered to forgive sins in Jesus’ name.  Thomas is not present at this appearance of Jesus and does not believe the other disciples unless he sees for himself.  Jesus returns, shows Thomas his wounds and Thomas believes.

Today the Second Sunday of Easter is also Divine Mercy Sunday.  Mercy means being treated well even though we do not deserve it.  When we sin, we may be afraid that God does not forgive us.  However, we need to remember to believe that God is merciful and loves us no matter how bad our sins.  When we are sorry for our sins God forgives us.  Forgiveness and reconciliation are our gifts to us from Jesus. 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
How can we share God’s peace and forgiveness with one another?

Family Prayer:  “Jesus, I trust in you!”  Thank you for your peace and mercy.  Lord, open our hearts and eyes to see the need of peace in each other.  Help us share your gift of peace and prayerfully greet each other by saying “May the peace of the Lord be with you.”  Amen

 

 

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12/26/21 - Christmas Day and Feast of Holy Family- Cycle C

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, at the age of 12 Jesus, Mary, and Joseph were on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem for the Jewish feast of Passover, an event where family and friends traveled together each year.  On their way back home, they realized Jesus was not with them.  They were worried when they could not find Jesus with any of their families or friends.  They finally found Jesus when they went back to the Temple.  When they found him and they told him how concerned and anxious they were, Jesus asked them why were they concerned since he was in his Father’s house, but he was obedient and returned with them to Nazareth. 

As a family watch Merry Christmas video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How can Jesus be born into your heart this Christmas?  What can you do to show your family that you love them?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help our family to seek and see you as we celebrate Jesus’ coming this Christmas.

 

 

MerryChristmas En

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1/14/24 - Christ is Calling - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of John, we hear how John the Baptist points to Jesus and tells two of his disciples “Behold, this is the Lamb of God.”  They heard what John said and follow Jesus who asks them “What are you looking for.”  They don’t answer the question but ask him “Where are you staying” and he answers “Come, and you will see”.  Andrew who had been one of the disciples who had followed Jesus, tells his brother Simon they have found the Messiah, and brings him to Jesus.

 

Jesus calls each one of us to come and see who he is.  We get to know Jesus by developing a relationship with him.  Like Andrew when we have experienced Jesus in our lives, we want to share this encounter with our family and friends.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
How would you answer if Jesus asked you “What are you looking for?”

 

Family Prayer:  Dear Lord, open our hearts to see you in our lives.  Amen.

 

 

ChristisCalling 2024 En

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12/17/23 - Christ in Our Hearts - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, we hear how John the Baptist answered when he was asked if he was the Messiah.  He told them that as Isaiah had said, he was the voice of the one crying out in the desert, making straight the way of the Lord.  John the Baptist was preparing the way for Jesus coming.  John said he was baptizing with water and someone that they did not recognize would baptize them with the Holy Spirit.

 

Like John the Baptist we are called to prepare ourselves for the coming of Jesus and be the voice of faith proclaiming Jesus to the world.  In this third Sunday of Advent, as we light the pink candle of Joy, let us rejoice and remember that “Emmanuel” God is with us.  Share this joy.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
Who are the people in word and action that have taught you about Jesus?

 

Family Prayer:  Dear Jesus, show us how to teach others about you.  Help us to be voices of faith.  Amen.

 

 

ChristinOurHearts En

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6/19/22 - Body and Blood of Christ - Cycle C

Dear Families,

This Sunday we celebrate the Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ (the Eucharist, Holy Communion).  Just as our bodies are in need of proper nourishment for energy, we also need to feed our spiritual needs.  In the Eucharist, God’s grace makes us strong and feeds us with God’s love. 

Today’s Gospel tells us about Jesus’ miracle and how He provided food to a very large crowd, five thousand with only five loaves of bread and two fish.  They even had leftovers, twelve baskets! 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions regarding the Gospel.
What does Jesus tell the disciples to do?  What do we learn about Jesus from this story? 

Family Prayer:  Dear Jesus, you feed us with your Body and Blood.  You fed the hungry crowds.  Open our eyes and hearts to the needs of others.  Amen

 

WhatisEucharist En

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6/11/23 - Body & Blood of Christ - Cycle A

Dear Families,

This Sunday is a very special feast day called Corpus Christi, a Latin word which means “Body of Christ”.  In John’s Gospel we hear how Jesus told the crowd that those that eat his flesh and drinks his blood has eternal life.  It was difficult then and now to understand, but our faith tells us that each time we go to mass the bread and wine becomes the Body and Blood of Jesus.  At mass listen to the words the priest says as he consecrates the bread and wine.  As he elevates the host remember this is now Jesus you are looking at.  When we receive the Eucharist, he nourishes our souls and strengthens our faith.  Jesus is truly with us; he is the living bread of eternal life.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
Why do you think Jesus gave us the Eucharist?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, you are truly the Bread of Life.  Thank you for your loving presence in the Eucharist.  Amen.

 

 

CorpusChristi En

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4/16/23 - Believing & Trusting - Cycle A

Dear Families,

Happy Easter!  Easter season is a celebration of fifty days, from Easter until Pentecost.

 

In this Sunday’s Gospel of John, Thomas is not with the Apostles when Jesus appears to them.  He is told that Jesus appeared to them but Doubting Thomas does not believe them and states that unless he sees him himself, he will not believe.  Jesus appears again and asks Thomas to touch him, and not be unbelieving.  Thomas touched him and said “My Lord and my God.”  The Lord asks Thomas “Have you come to believe because you see me?  Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”  Jesus was blessing us when he said these words to Thomas.  We are asked to show that we believe in Jesus as our Lord and God.  We believe because of the witnessing of all who have gone before us in the faith.

 

This Sunday is also Divine Mercy Sunday.  It is a special day when we remember God’s mercy.  When we sin, we offend God, but because he is merciful, he forgives us when we are sorry.  Like Thomas the Apostle we need to see and we have our doubts, but God understands us and forgives us.  We need to trust that he is always with us and loves us.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Do you doubt when you are with believers, or are you a believer who has doubts?  Do you trust our Lord and pray for understanding when you have doubts?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, I Trust in You!

 

 

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9/8/24 - Be Opened! - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Mark, we hear how a man who could not hear and did not speak well is brought to Jesus by his friends.  Jesus touched him and healed him.  Jesus asks people not to tell anyone what happened.  However, they were so excited they could not keep the Good News to themselves.

 

Right before the Gospel is proclaimed, we cross our forehead (to remember God’s words), our lips (to proclaim God’s words) and our hearts (to love and feel what we learn in the Gospel).  God wants us to listen, and open our hearts to his healing love for us.  Jesus wants us to speak and share the Goods News of how he heals and loves our family and friends.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
Do you need to listen to God’s words with your heart before you can use your voice to tell others about Jesus?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to hear the Gospel, understand it, and tell others the Good News of Jesus.  Amen.

 

 

Be Opened 2024 En 2024

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2/11/24 - Be Made Clean! - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Mark, we hear how Jesus was approached by a man who had leprosy.  The man asked Jesus to heal his leprosy.  Leprosy was a horrible contagious disease that had no cure, and during Jesus’ time lepers were not allowed to have contact with people who did not have the disease.  Jesus in his compassion touched and healed the leper.  He told the man not to tell anyone, but the man told everyone what had happened.  When people found out Jesus could heal, he was constantly followed by people who wanted to be healed.  He tried rest and quiet in the desert, but people followed him there also.  Still, he helped many people who came to him to be healed.

 

The Gospel story tells us that God loves every one of us, even outsiders, even those no one else seems to like.  Like Jesus we need to choose to love and help others.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
To whom does Jesus reach out?  To whom can you reach out?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, teach us to see when people are in need and reach out to them.  Amen.

 

 

BeMadeClean2024 En

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1/9/22 - Baptism of the Lord- Cycle C

Dear Families,

This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.  Many people in Israel thought John the Baptist was the Messiah.  John clears the confusion by explaining he baptizes with water but one mightier than he will baptize with the Holy Spirit.  After Jesus was baptized by John, the Holy Spirit came down in the form of a dove.  A voice from Heaven said, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”  The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are each present for this important event.  Jesus is not alone when he begins his mission.

Like Jesus, we are God’s beloved sons and daughters.  When we are baptized, we are not alone.  God is getting us ready for a special mission.  At our Baptism we become members of a community that continues Jesus’ work of healing and teaching.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What difference does being baptized make in the choices you make?

Family Prayer:  Thank you, Lord for making us members of your family through Baptism.  Amen.

 

 

BaptismofLord En

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

This Sunday’s Gospel is about the Baptism of the Lord.  Jesus was without sin.  He did not need to be baptized, but he allowed John to baptize him to show us how important this sacrament is.  The Blessed Trinity was fully revealed at Jesus’ baptism.  At Jesus baptism – God the Father says he is “well pleased” with His Son, Jesus.  God the Holy Spirit comes down on Jesus like a dove.  God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are the Holy Trinity.  They are united in love.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. Imagine yourself at Jesus’ baptism.  What do you see and feel?

Family Prayer:  Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of Baptism that makes us part of your family.  Help us to treat one another with love and respect.  Amen

 

baptism of the Lord

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10/8/23 - Bad Tenants and Wild Grapes - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells the chief priests and elders a parable about a man who plants a vineyard, and then leased it to tenants.  When the owner’s servants go to collect the produce from the tenants, they rebel and kill the servants.  Then he sends his son, and they killed him also.  The tenants thought they would be able to take the vineyard if the son was dead.  When he finishes the parable, he questions the chief priests and elders. He asks, what would they do?  And they answered that they would kill the wicked tenants.  Jesus is speaking about the failure of Jesus’ own people not accepting him.  When God sent His Son Jesus, the leaders were like the tenants.  They did not listen or respect him. They killed Jesus on the cross.

 

Jesus’ parable teaches us to be part of God’s vineyard, the Church.  Jesus is asking us to make good choices.  Not to be like the bad tenants who were selfish.  He is calling us to be a part of God’s kingdom.  To be a part of God’s kingdom we need to love, not be selfish, listen to Jesus’ teachings, and be responsible to what we say we will do.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How is God like the owner of the vineyard?  How are you responsible at school, home, church, and with other people?

 

Family Prayer:  God our creator, thank you for making us and sharing your wonderful world with us.  Amen.

 

 

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Dear Families,

This Sunday we celebrate the Assumption of Mary into Heaven.  The Catholic Church teaches that Mary, who was without sin, was taken, body and soul by God into Heaven.  The Gospel reading recalls Mary’s actions after the announcement of her pregnancy with Jesus by the Angel Gabriel.  The angel told her that her cousin Elizabeth was going to have a baby and Mary immediately leaves to visit her.  In her womb, Mary brings Jesus to her cousin, and they greet each other with joy.  Elizabeth’s baby (John the Baptist) leaps with joy in her womb.  Elizabeth recognizes Mary as the mother of God and greets her saying “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” (Phrase in Hail Mary).  Mary responds to Elizabeth’s greeting and sings with her song of praise (The Magnificat).  With eyes of faith, they see the power and salvation of God breaking through into their lives and into the world.

Mary’s song of praise reminds us that God is always working for the salvation of the world.  Let us foster a spirit of praise and thanksgiving and bring Jesus to others as Mary brought Jesus to her cousin Elizabeth.

As a family watch video in its entirety and ask each other this question.

How do we praise and thank God for the things that God is doing in our lives and in our world today?

Family Prayer:  Let’s make Mary’s prayer of thanksgiving (Luke1:46-47) our own.

Our souls proclaim the greatness of the Lord.  Our spirits rejoice in God our Savior.  Amen

 

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My dear families,

I pray this email finds you all well and praying as a family.

When the 11 disciples went to the mountain, Jesus said to them “Go and make disciples of all nations”.  The Ascension of the Lord, Thursday May 21st  is often called the “Great Commission”.  

We are called to be disciples and observe all that Jesus has taught and commanded us to do.  Through our actions we lead people to Christ. 

Witnesses to this “Great Commission” are our Pastor Father Stan, Father Victor, Father Charlince, lectors, cantors, musicians, and altar servers, seen when mass is livestreamed into our homes.  Deacon Andres setting the technology and managing the videos and Deacon John with his daily reflections. 

Our priests are not just taking care of our spiritual needs but also our physical needs by distributing food to our parishioners in need.  Marge who is always there for all of us.  All who donate to Parish Outreach and all volunteers who pack the food donated and keep our Church clean and looking beautiful.  Our families who through their trials are demonstrating the virtues of love, patience, kindness, humility.

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12/31/23 - Anna and Simeon

Dear Families,

Merry Christmas.  This Sunday we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family.  Today’s Gospel of Luke, tells us how Mary and Joseph being faithful Jewish parents took Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem and in accordance with the Jewish rite dedicated Jesus to the Lord.  In the Temple, they encounter Simeon and Anna, who recognized the infant Jesus and praised God.

 

We need to remember that the Holy Family is a model of what it means to be a family of faith and love.  We imitate the Holy Family by the ways we share our faith and love with our families and others.

 

As a family watch this Anna and Simeon video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
As a Catholic family, how are you expressing your faith like the Holy Family?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, open our hearts to your Word so that we may imitate the Holy Family.  Amen.

 

 

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12/18/22 - An Angel Speaks to Joseph - Cycle A

Dear Families,

 

In this Fourth Sunday of Advent, we learn about Joseph’s dilemma when he learns that Mary, who he is betrothed to, is expecting a child that is not his.  He could have accused Mary of adultery and subjected her to punishment.  But he was unwilling to take this step, so he decided to divorce her quietly.  However, an Angel appears to Joseph in a dream, and tells Joseph to take Mary as his wife for her pregnancy is an act of God.  The angel tells him to name the baby Jesus.  Joseph trusting God, makes a choice, and does what the Angel tells him.  He takes Mary into his home and names the baby Jesus which means “he will save”.

 

As the prophet Isaiah said, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel which means “God is with us”.  Let us not forget that God is always with us.  He is our Savior.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
When has God helped you make a choice when you needed help?

 

Family Prayer:  God, help us make choices that bring us closer to you.  Help us to follow your guidance.  Jesus, I trust in you.  Amen.

 

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Dear Parents,

Alleluia! this Sunday we celebrate Jesus Resurrection!  We have made it through the forty days of Lent, and walked with Jesus on his journey to the cross in Holy Week.  It is celebration time and Easter doesn’t end today.  Easter never ends, what Jesus did through his death and resurrection never ends.  Let’s look at the season of Easter, and for the next fifty days reflect on how the apostles responded to this good news.  Jesus’ resurrection changed everything for the apostles.  They were no longer afraid, now nothing was more important to them than sharing the good news. 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.

What does Jesus’ resurrection mean to us as his disciples today?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, you have triumphed over the grave and you have won new life for us.  Give us the eyes of faith to see you in your glory.  Amen

 

 

resurrection

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12/3/23 - Advent - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of Mark, Jesus tells his disciples “Be watchful!  Be Alert!”  He warns them to be prepared and ready because they do not know when the Lord of the house is coming.

 

It is the first week of Advent, and our new Liturgical Year begins.  Happy New Year!  We are preparing to celebrate Jesus’ birthday on Christmas Day when he was born in Bethlehem a long time ago.  However, in today’s Gospel Jesus is telling his disciples to be alert.  We need to reflect on what Jesus said to his disciples about his second coming.  During these four weeks of Advent, let’s remember the importance of prayer and faithfulness to honor Jesus’ command telling us to be alert and ready for his return.  Only God knows when this day will come.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
How do you stay alert to Jesus’ coming in your life?  Are you ready for his return?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us to pay attention to your words and teachings.  Help us to follow you always.  Amen.

 

 

Advent2023 En

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12/1/24 - Advent

Dear Families,

Happy New Year!  The Church’s new year begins on this First Sunday of Advent.  This week’s Gospel focus is on the Second Coming of Jesus.  Jesus tells his disciples about the end of everything.  “He tells them that there will be signs in the sun and the moon and the stars.  And on earth, distress among the nations”.  We learn that earthly things do not last forever.  But we are not to fear, because he also tells his disciples that after this devastation they will see “The Son of Man coming on a cloud with great power and majesty”.  Everything on earth will end but God is eternal and He will be with us forever.

 

This first Sunday of Advent we begin to prepare to celebrate Jesus’ birth at Christmas.  When you come to Mass during Advent you will see a candle lighted each week and pray for hope, peace, joy and love.  Let the light of these candles bring these prayers and the light of Christ to your family, friends, neighbors.  Let’s celebrate his First Coming by being good to others and ourselves which will also prepare us for his Second Coming.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What are your hopes for yourself, your family, our world?  What are ways you can prepare for Jesus’ coming?

 

Family Prayer:  Lord, during Advent give us the grace to work on those things we need to correct or improve and become your shining light to the world.  Amen.

 

 

Advent 2024 En

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2/25/24 - Abraham, Isaac, and Jesus Transfigured - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Second Sunday of Lent, in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a mountain and they witness Jesus’ Transfiguration.  His clothes became dazzling white and then Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus.  Peter, James, and John were amazed and afraid.  Then a cloud came and made a shadow over them.  A voice spoke from the cloud and said “This is my beloved Son.  Listen to him”.  They wonder what all this means.  Coming down the mountain Jesus told Peter, James, and John not to tell anyone what happened until after He rose from the dead.

 

The Transfiguration remind us that even though Jesus suffered and died on the Cross, he rose in glory and gave us the opportunity for a new life forever in Heaven.  It helps us understand that hard times will come and we need to think about Jesus because he understands our pain and suffering.  There is a better life waiting for us when we are faithful.  Each Lent gives us the opportunity to grow closer to Jesus, and become the person God created us to be for His glory.

 

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What are some ways you can listen to Jesus?  How will you listen to Jesus to change and grow during Lent?

 

Family Prayer:  Jesus, show us the way to God the Father.  Helps us listen so that we can hear you and follow you.  Amen.

 

 

AbrahamIsaacJesus Transfigured2024 En

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My dear families,

I pray this email finds you all well and praying as a family.

In this week’s video in the Gospel of John, Jesus prays to the Father for His Disciples. We are His Disciples. What a blessing to know that Jesus prays for us. Jesus is working for, in, and through us.

Thank the Lord for all his works and words. Ask the Lord to show you how to be in the world, but not of the world. Remember to always love one another as He loves you.

As a family, ask each other how are we Jesus’ Disciples? How can you witness to each other that you are a disciple of Christ?

May the peace of the Lord be always with you.

 

Jesus Prays

Jesus Prays

 

John 17:1-11

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My dear families,

I pray this email finds you all well and that you are praying as a family. Trusting God is watching over all of you.

In this Sunday’s gospel Jesus tells us that he will not leave us orphans. Even in the midst of our struggles we can rest assured that Jesus is with us to comfort and strengthen us. Know that Jesus loves you and hugs you. As a family ask each other these questions. How are you feeling Jesus loving hugs? How are you hugging Jesus? How do you know Jesus loves you? Do you love Jesus?

 

Jesus holding child

 

“If you love me”

John 14:15-21
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Dear Parents,

In this week’s Gospel, Jesus meets a man who is sick with leprosy and people stay far, far away from him.  When the man pleads with Jesus to heal him so he can be with other people.  Jesus sees and hears the man and feels compassion for him.  He heals the man.  In this Gospel story, we learn that God loves every one of us, even outsiders, even those no one else seems to like.  When people found out Jesus could heal, they constantly asked him to do so.  He tried to find rest and quiet in the desert, but people followed him there too.  Still, he helped many people who needed healing.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions. How do you reach out to people in your area that need help?  How can you find the strength to help them?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, teach us to see when people are in need, and give us the strength to reach out to them.  Amen

 

Jesus meets a leper

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Dear Parents,

In this Sunday’s Gospel Jesus cured Simon’s mother-in-law.  Jesus also cured many others who were brought to him, healing their illnesses and driving out demons.  The Gospel also remind us that Jesus took time to pray so he could carry out his healing ministry.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. How do you feel when you see people who are sick or struggling?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, help us to do your work of feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, and comforting others.  Amen

 

Jesus cures simons mil

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Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus loves teaching others about God the Father!  Jesus’ power is shown when He sends away a bad spirit.  Jesus has authority over all things, including us.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. Do we recognize Jesus’ authority over us and his ability to teach us?

Family Prayer:  Jesus, please help us to listen to you in all things.  Amen

 

Jesus authority

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11/14/21 - 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus tells his disciples what will happen at the end of time.  The sun and moon will become dark and the stars will fall down from the sky.  These are scary things to hear, but then he also says he will return.  He tells them that only God the Father knows when this will happen.

This Gospel is a reminder we should be prepared for Jesus’ coming at all times to enter God’s Kingdom.  We need to stay close to God and away from sin.  Christ will come again.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What can you do to show Jesus he is welcome in your home and heart every day?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us make loving choices every day as we wait for your return.  Amen

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Dear Families,

This Sunday’s Gospel is about multiplying the gifts God gives us.  The best gift is the Good News of Jesus’ Birth, Death and Resurrection.  When we use our talents to spread the Good News, we give glory to God.

As a family watch video in its entirety than ask each other this question. What talent has God given you?  How can you use it to tell others about Jesus?

Family Prayer:  Lord, help us to discover our talents.  Show us how you want us to use them.  Amen

 

talents

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