"Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them"

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Second Sunday of Easter, April 11, 2010 (2EasterC)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Readings (Cycle C)
Lecturas y Comentarios
Prayer of the Hours
Burning Question: Must you Confess before receiving Communion?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 5, Verses 12-16

A large number of people . . . gathered, bringing the sick
and those disturbed by unclean spirits, and they were all cured.

1. What is the connection between all these life-giving miracles and the resurrection? Discuss the apostles’ missionary efforts in the light of “Power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10, 13:4). Do you want Christ to use you on behalf of others? If yes, what are the implications?

2. “They were all cured.” What are some signs and wonders of God’s healing love that you see today?

Second Reading
Book of Revelation, Chapter 1, Verses 9-11, 12-13, 17-19

1. Once, when John the Evangelist is “caught up in spirit,” Christ touches him and speaks to him. Are there others in history, “suffering for their faith,” who have received clear understanding and revelations? Can good things come from suffering?

2. John says he fell down “as though dead.” Christ, “who once was dead but now is alive,” touched him and raised him up. Does this vision give you strength to do good things? Are you part of what, in Christ’s words, “will happen afterwards”?

Gospel
According to John, Chapter 20, Verses 19-31

1. Why do you think Jesus breathed on the disciples when he gave them the Holy Spirit? What effect did this have on the disciples’ fear? How about your fear, and every aspect of your life? What do forgiveness of sin and resurrection have in common?

2. How do you resolve your questions/doubts? What is your attitude toward people who, like Thomas, doubt some truths that you hold dearly? How did Jesus handle Thomas and his doubts?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
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