"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower."

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 6, 2012 (Easter5B)
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 are the four marks of the True Church?

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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 9:26-31

1. What motivated Paul to speak out boldly? Think of examples of people who speak out to bring about changes in social justice. How does the “speaking out” impact the speaker’s life? Do their efforts bring about immediate change? Explain.

2. What cries out to you to be changed? Name some ways to “speak out” without using your voice?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 22: 26-27, 28, 30, 31-32

1. Our psalmist says, "I will fulfill my vows before those who fear the LORD." Does this verse inspire you to confirm your faith boldly and take up God's praise in the company of your fellow believers? Discuss.

2. The Psalm ends with an uplifting call for us to proclaim the Lord's truth to the next generation. Describe how you have answered the Lord's call and how you go about telling others about God's love.

Second Reading
Acts 9:26-31


1. St. John says to “walk the walk, not just talk the talk.” Where do you fit on a continuum between walkers and talkers?

2. What would your world look like if every day, you performed a kind deed for some unsuspecting person? Who would benefit from these acts?

Gospel
John 15:1-8

1. How could you use this Gospel to explain Paul’s actions in the First Reading? If you (the branches) remain in Jesus (the vine), whose life runs through you? What kind of fruit will you yield?

2. “And every one that does (bear fruit) he prunes so that it bears more fruit.” Have you ever felt like you were being “pruned?” Explain. At times do you have “dead wood” that needs to be pruned? Discuss.

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