"Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths."

Where do we look for hope? Has God abandoned us or is God bidding us to look beyond what presently imprisons us in darkness? Sunday's Gospel for Dec. 7, 2014 tells us that John the Baptist faced very similar conditions during his day. And at the very outset, Mark declares his gospel to be the "good news."

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Second Sunday of Advent, Dec. 7, 2014 (2AdvB)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What is the Old Testament Root of Baptism?

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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
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 40, Verses 1-5, 9-11

1. Left to human management world history is a wasteland or at best a rough road. What in this reading makes the rough spots in life smoother? Is your road smooth all the time? Rough? Does God walk with you when you are in “rugged country”? How do you know that?

2. “For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” What “Word” has God spoken to us? Could the Word be the “shepherd gathering lambs in his arms? Do you think God has always been walking on the roads of world history, even before he spoke his Word?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 85:9-10-11-12, 13-14

1. Our psalmist says, "I will hear what God proclaims." For us, this verse can be seen as a reminder to study the Word of the Lord. Explain how your study of the Word is strengthening your faith.

2. The Psalm says that, "Truth shall spring out of the earth." This verse may foretell the coming of the Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ. What else about the Psalm prepares us for the birth of our Savior?
Second Reading
Second Letter of St. Peter, Chapter 3, Verses 8-14

1. What does the statement from this reading “With the Lord one day is like a thousand years and a thousand years like one day.” mean to you?

2. What is your relationship with earth? Do you take the earth for granted, or do you treat it with reverence? Give an example of treating earth with reverence.

Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 1, Verses 1-8

1. How do you share John the Baptist’s mission to proclaim Christ’s coming in the world? Do you do this with words or by the way you live? How is John’s message of repentance and judgment different from Jesus’?

2. Are there “noises” that block out John the Baptist’s cry, “Prepare the way of the Lord” for you? What are they? What can you do during Advent to block the “noises”?

Sunday Bible Study Group
Please reflect on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"Be watchful! Be alert!"

The Gospel passage for Sunday, November 30, 2014, proclaims the essential truth that will be celebrated in all its dimensions throughout the year -- namely, the "advent" truth that God has come in the person of Jesus Christ, and that the same Lord, now invisibly present through the Spirit, will come again in power and glory.
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
First Sunday of Advent, Nov. 30, 2014 (1AdvB)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Did John the Baptist go straight to heaven when he died?

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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
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 63, Verses 16-17, 19; Chapter 64, Verses 2-7

1. Picture a potter working with clay? Describe it. Even though we wander away from the Lord, God is our father and handles us as a potter handles the clay. Explain this metaphor.

2. “. . . that we were mindful of you in our ways!” Is there a veil that keeps you from seeing God’s presence at work in your life and in your world? How can you use Advent to lift that veil, to get more in touch with God in and around you?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19

1. The Psalm says, 'Lord, make us turn to you ....' Have you noticed at times when we stray off His path how the Lord tugs at each of us so that we return to His ways.  Give an example from your own experience.

2. Our psalmist is writing about the scattered people of Israel, but his words may apply to each of us in our separation from God. In what way are you inspired by the Psalm's verses to repent
and seek renewal?

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, Chapter 1, Verses 3-9

1. What gift does Paul say you have been given in order to do God’s work now, as you wait for Christ’s coming at the end of your life? The concern here is to make sure you are ready for life with God after death. Is there life with God before your death? Explain.

2. St. Paul says “that in him you were enriched in every way.” In what ways has God enriched you personally? To say Paul’s words in another way, his gift to us is the richness of everything in him. What richness in Christ is he passing on to you?

Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 13, Verses 33-37

1. As vigilant gatekeepers watching for the Lord of the house, what signs do you see that tell you God is present in the world and in your life?

2. As gatekeepers we are responsible for the preservation of the gift of the earth. What is the Church’s responsibility in the maintenance of the earth’s life? What is your responsibility in this?

Sunday Bible Study Group
Please reflect on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"He will give you another Advocate to be with you always"

This week, the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Readings move us forward in our consideration of the Easter Mystery. We move from the contemplation of Christ's appearances after the resurrection over the last few Sundays to a meditation on the continued presence of Christ in the Church through the Holy Spirit.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 25, 2014 (6EasterA)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings  
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What does the Holy Spirit do in your life?

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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 8, Verses 5-8, 14-17

1. In last week’s Gospel we listened to Philip ask for help with his belief. This week he has the city of Samaria high with “great joy.” What do you think caused the change? Why did the crowds “pay attention” to what Philip was saying? What gets your attention in spiritual matters?

2. The Samaritans saw many signs. What are the signs of the presence of God in your life? Do any signs fill you with joy?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 66: 1-7, 16, 20

1. The Psalm says, 'Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.' This is in response to the tremendous deeds of God.' Have you seen the works of God in your life? Explain.

2. Our psalmist says 'Hear now, all you who fear God, while I declare what he has done for me.' Have you given witness to what God has done for you? Give an example of how His presence has transformed you. 

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Peter, Chapter 3, Verses 15-18

1. Explain how Christ is a reason for your hope.

2. How does suffering for the sake of truth make us like Christ? How does suffering help us know Christ? What does “suffering for the sake of truth,” mean to you? Give an example of someone who suffers like this today.

Gospel
According to John, Chapter 14, Verses 15-21

1. Do you think you can understand the mysteries of God and how God works in your life simply by studying or reading or discussing? What else does it take? What/Who enables you to recognize the signs in the First Reading?

2. “Whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him.” Explain how and why you think this quotation works. How does love impact knowledge and understanding in any friendship?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share below your reflections on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"Whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst"

The story of the Woman at the Well in the Gospel of John for the Third Sunday of Lent is incredibly rich and full of meaning. It certainly offers plenty of material for fruitful meditation during this season of Lent.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Third Sunday of Lent, Mar. 23, 2014 (3LentA)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings  
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: "Can non-Catholic people go to heaven?"

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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
Book of Exodus, Chapter 17, Verses 3-7

1. Marching through the desert, panicky with thirst, the Israelites had some difficulty believing that God was with them. Can you relate to this situation in some way? It was a serious confrontation and Moses was afraid for his life. What did he do? What would help you?

2. Think of all the ways water is important in your life. The name of the mountain where Moses struck the rock was Horeb, which means “dry” or “desolate.” What is the significance of this and of the water imagery in salvation history?

Responsorial Psalms
Psalm 95:  1-2, 6-9

1. The Psalm says that we are the people the Lord shepherds. In what way do you feel like one of his sheep?

2. The Psalm mentions that our spiritual ancestors hardened their hearts at Meribah. Does that also happen to you sometimes? Do you turn away from the Lord and doubt that he cares for you? If so, what is it that allows you to trust the Lord again?

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 5, Verses 1-2, 5-8

1. Everything has been done for us. Christ died for all of us, made us deserving and gave us his Spirit to pour God’s love into our hearts. What is our part?

2. Paul says that “the Holy Spirit has been given to us.” What do these words mean to you? Do you rely on the Holy Spirit to come to your aid when you need help? How often do you call on the Holy Spirit?

Gospel
According to John, Chapter 4, Verses 5-42

1. “For Jews use nothing in common with Samaritans,” the Gospel says. But the woman at the well was a Samaritan. How did Jesus handle this problem, and also the gender issue at the well? When was the only other time Jesus mentions his thirst? Do you think it was the same thirst?

2. Why did the woman leave her jar and go into town to tell everyone what had happened? Does that part of the story have any significance for you? What does “living water” mean to you? For what do you thirst?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share below your reflections on the above Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.

“Receive the Holy Spirit."

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Pentecost Sunday, May 23, 2010 (PentecostC)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios
Prayer of the Hours
Burning Question: What do say when asked if you are a Christian?

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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 2, Verses 1-11

1. People from every nation were confused and amazed because through the Holy Spirit everyone understood what the apostles were saying. If you were completely open to the Holy Spirit, would you have a deeper understanding of all that you hear and see? Was the miracle in the speaking or the hearing? How does the Holy Spirit use the miracle of hearing with you?

2. How were the disciples different after the Spirit’s arrival? In your own life do you tend to see the Holy Spirit as dynamic and constant or only occasional? Rate you awareness on a scale of 1 to 10 of your belief in the Holy Spirit as your constant companion. Are you different when you are confident that the Spirit is with you? Explain.

Second Reading
Romans, Chapter 8, Verses 8-17 or
First Corinthians, Chapter 12, Verses 3b-7, 12-13

1. How do the gifts of the Spirit (knowledge, wisdom, understanding, reverence, courage, right judgment, awe and wonder in the presence of God) create unity in the Church? Think about one of the worst problems in the world today. What has the Spirit given to help eradicate that problem?

2. Were Puccini and Shakespeare given gifts for their own pleasure? Then what for? What are your gifts from the Holy Spirit and how do you see yourself using them?

Gospel
According to John, Chapter 20, Verses 19-23 or
John, Chapter 14, Verses 15-16, 23b-26

1. Jesus said, “I have much more to tell you…. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth will guide you in all truth.” Now the Spirit has come. Do we know the whole truth about God’s salvific plan? Explain.

2. Compare God breathing life into Adam, and Jesus breathing on the disciples when he gave them the Holy Spirit. What is the significance for you? The disciples’ first task after receiving the Holy Spirit was to forgive sins. What impact does forgiveness of sin have on peace?


Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your reflections on the above Sunday Readings with other ParishWorld readers. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.

"Whoever loves me will keep my word"

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 9, 2010 (6EasterC)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Readings (Cycle C)
Lecturas y Comentarios
Prayer of the Hours
"What does the Holy Spirit do in your life?"

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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 15, Verses 1-2, 22-29

1. Is there any growth without tension? Would the Church be better off if there were never dissension and debate? Do the present shames and accusations against the Church have any growth value (besides all the harm done). Is it all “their” fault, or are we all involved?

2. Was this a ceasefire or did the early Christians in this story actually make concessions? Discuss the value of both listening and then representing your own view when coming to work out a problem. How are your listening skills? Do you try to see the other person’s point of view?

Second Reading
Book of Revelation, Chapter 21, Verses 10-14, 22-23

1. Is all of salvation history included in John’s vision? Whichever answer you give, tell why.

2. In his vision John describes what we will see when we meet Christ face to face. How do we see Christ now? Where do we meet him now?

Gospel
According to John, Chapter 14, Verses 23-29

1. When you love someone you want to be with that person. How does this relate with the statement, “Whoever loves me, we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.” How do you feel about Jesus when he talks like this? What does it tell you about God?

2. The second great gift in this reading is the promise of the Holy Spirit who will teach us everything. Do you think there could be a direct proportion between how much a person loves and how much the Holy Spirit is being allowed to live in that person?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your reflections on the above Sunday Readings with other ParishWorld readers. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.

November 29, 2009, First Sunday of Advent - "Be vigilant at all times"

Sunday Readings Reflections
First Sunday of Advent, November 29, 2009 (1AdvC)

Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: What does "pray without ceasing" mean?


First Reading
Jeremiah, Chapter 33: Verses 14-16

1. Advent is a process of looking back at Christ’s birth and the inauguration of his kingdom on earth and looking forward to it fulfillment. What does Advent awaken in you? Does anything in your daily life interfere with your spiritual Advent preparation?

2. Why is Advent called the season of hope? Why is hope vital to your life? What would your life be like without hope? What can you do to bring hope to people you know?

Second Reading
1 Thessalonians, Chapter 3, Verse 12 - Chapter 4, Verse 28

1. St. Paul says that the same Jesus who lived and died and rose from the dead is present and active among us now making us increase (in numbers) and abound in love for one another and for all. How do you think “increasing in numbers” correlates with “abounding in love for one another and for all”?

2. St. Paul said he “abounded in love” for the Thessalonians to strengthen their hearts. Discuss “abounding in love” as an effective method of strengthening hearts or eliciting change of any kind. Do you think great change or growth ever happens without immense love?

Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 21, Verses 25-28, 34-36

1. Jesus tells us to pray for strength. Do you believe that if you ask for strength you will receive it? Could God send it through other people? Could you be a source of strength for others?

2. Jesus is God’s last Word (Christ’s Incarnation) to us. Discuss this idea.

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