COVID-19 Vaccines & Catholic Morality

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

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Watch video as a family.

(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

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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Watch video as a family.

(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

It is the third Sunday of Advent. In this Sunday’s Gospel, John the Baptist not only prepares for Christ’s arrival, but also gives his testimony. We too are called to tell our stories of Jesus coming into our lives. We are asked to be other “voices in the desert”, proclaiming Jesus to the world.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. Who are the people whose words and actions have taught you about Jesus? How can we pray without stopping?

Family Prayer: Dear Jesus, show us how to teach others about you. Help us to be voices of faith. Help us rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in all circumstances give thanks. Amen

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Watch video as a family.

(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

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Watch video as a family.

(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

In this week’s Gospel Jesus reminds us that when we care for the poor, hungry, sick, tired, and lonely, we are loving him. We also remember this Sunday that Jesus is the King. If we wish to be in service to our King, we must be in service to those in need.

As a family watch video in its entirety than ask each other this question. How can you recognize the needs of others and help fill those needs?

Family Prayer: Jesus, help us to notice when someone is poor, sick, lonely, hungry, or in need in any way. Amen