God's Faithfulness

• Prayer For The Return Of God's Favor • Isaiah 63:16b-17, 19b; 64:2-7
• Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19
• Thanksgiving • 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
• Need For Watchfulness • Mark 13:33-37

Key Passage: God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9)

Adult Question: How do you know when you're following Christ and living his teachings faithfully?

Child Question: What good thing might God be asking you to do right now?

Patience

• Promise Of Salvation • Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11
• Psalm 85:9ab+10, 11-12, 13-14
• Christ Will Come In Judgment • 2 Peter 3:8-14
• John The Baptist • Mark 1:1-8

Key Passage: The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)

Adult Question: With whom could you be more patient this week, as God has been patient with you?

Child Question: With whom can you be more patient?

Bringing Joy Through Justice

• The Mission To The Afflicted • Isaiah 61:1-2a, 10-11
• Luke 1:46-48, 49-50, 53-54
• Christian Conduct; Blessing • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
• John As Witness To The Light • John 1:6-8, 19-28

Key Passage: I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my whole being shall exult in my God; for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation. (Isaiah 61:10)

Adult Question: What work of justice could you do this week to bring someone joy?

Child Question: What could you do for someone this week to make them happy?

Acceptance Of God's Will

• The Lord's Promises To David • 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16
• Psalm 89:2-3, 4-5, 27+29
• Doxology • Romans 16:25-27
• The Annunciation Of The Lord • Luke 1:26-38

Key Passage: Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:38)

Adult Question: How do you open your heart to what God wants for you? How do you follow the pathway that leads to happiness?

Child Question: Is there something hard you need to do this week? What might make it easier?

At The Vigil Mass

• The Anointed One • Isaiah 62:1-5
• Psalm 89:4-5, 16-17, 27+29
• Paul's Address In The Synagogue • Acts of the Apostles 13:16-17, 22-25
• The Genealogy And Birth Of Jesus • Matthew 1:1-25

Key Passage: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel (Matt 1:23).

Adult Question: Where do you recognize God's presence in your life?

Child Question: What is your favorite part of the Christmas story?

Mass At Midnight

• The Prince Of Peace • Isaiah 9:1-6
• Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 11-12, 13
• Transforming Of Life • Titus 2:11-14
• The Birth Of Jesus • Luke 2:1-14

Key Passage: For a child is born to us, a son is given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. (Isa 9:5)

Adult Question: Why is knowing Jesus important in your life?

Child Question: How do you experience Jesus when you give a gift to someone else?

Mass At Dawn

• Your Salvation Comes • Isaiah 62:11-12
• Psalm 97:1+6, 11-12
• The Loving Kindness Of God Our Savior Appeared • Titus 3:4-7
• The Birth Of The Savior • Luke 2:15-20

Key Passage: Mary treasures these events in her heart. (Luke 2:19)

Adult Question: What will you do during this Christmas season to reflect in your heart, as Mary did, on God's gift of the Savior?

Child Question: What would you say to Jesus as you stand before the nativity scene in your church?

Mass During The Day

• The One Who Brings Glad Tidings • Isaiah 52:7-10
• Psalm 98:1, 2-3a, 3b-4, 5-6
• God Speaks Through His Son • Hebrews 1:1-6
• In The Beginning Was The Word • John 1:1-18

Key Passage: "His own did not accept him." (John 1:10–11)

Adult Question: If Jesus were to be born today, do you think you would accept him and follow him? Why or why not?

Child Question: What could you and your family do for others during the next week to celebrate the birth of Jesus?

Respect For Elders

• Promise Of A Great Nation • Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3
• Psalm 105:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
• The Faith Of Abraham • Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19
• The Presentation Of The Lord • Luke 2:22-40

Key Passage: "Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can. Just so," he added, "will your descendants be." (Gen 15:5)

Adult Question: What does your family do to honor and respect its oldest members?

Child Question: Who are the oldest people you know, and what can you learn from them?

Living With Uncertainty

• The Priestly Blessing • Numbers 6:22-27
• Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6+8
• Free Sons Of God In Christ • Galatians 4:4-7
• The Shepherds' Visit, The Circumcision • Luke 2:16-21

Key Passage: Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. (Luke 2:19)

Adult Question: When have you found it difficult to understand or accept a teaching of the church? What helps you be faithful?

Child Question: Who teaches you to have faith in God?

Overcoming Jealousy

• Glory Of The New Zion • Isaiah 60:1-6
• Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13
• Commission To Preach God's Plan • Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
• The Visit Of The Magi • Matthew 2:1-12

Key Passage: Then Herod sent the [magi] to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage." (Matthew 2:8)

Adult Question: When have you been jealous or fearful of another person? When are such feelings harmful?

Child Question: When have you been jealous because something good happened to another person instead of you? What is the problem with feeling that way?

Time Come And See

• Revelation To Samuel • 1 Samuel 3:3b-10, 19
• Psalm 40:2+4, 7-8a, 8b-9, 10
• Against Sexual Immorality • 1 Corinthians 6:13c-15a, 17-20
• The First Disciples • John 1:35-42

Key Passage: They said to him, "Rabbi" (which translated means Teacher), "where are you staying?" He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. (John 1:38b–39)

Adult Question: What qualities do you have that would cause others to recognize you as a disciple of Jesus?

Child Question: What does it take to be a follower of Jesus?

Repent And Believe

• Conversion Of Nineveh • Jonah 3:1-5, 10
• Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
• Encouragement Within A Hostile World • 1 Corinthians 7:29-31
• Call Of The First Disciples • Mark 1:14-20

Key Passage: Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." (Mark 1:14–15)

Adult Question: What part of your life is Jesus calling you to change right now?

Child Question: In what way do you think you can be a better follower of Jesus?

Sharing Good News

• A Prophet Like Moses • Deuteronomy 18:15-20
• Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7b, 7c-9
• The State Of Virginity • 1 Corinthians 7:32-35
• Cure Of A Demoniac • Mark 1:21-28

Key Passage: They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. (Mark 1:22)

Adult Question: What can you tell others about Jesus with the most assurance?

Child Question: What is the most important thing you would like others to know about Jesus? How will you show or tell them?

Comfort For The Sorrowful

• Job's First Reply • Job 7:1-4, 6-7
• Psalm 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6
• Paul's Recompense • 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23
• Cure Of Peter's Mother In Law And Other Miracles • Mark 1:29-39

Key Passage: That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. And the whole city was gathered around the door. And he cured many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. (Mark 1:32–34a)

Adult Question: When have you felt the sadness of Job? When have you felt the joy of those who witnessed the healing works of Jesus?

Child Question: What could you do this week to comfort someone who is sad?

Models Of Christ

• On Leprosy • Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46
• Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 11
• Imitation Of Christ • 1 Corinthians 10:31—11:1
• Healing Of A Leper • Mark 1:40-45

Key Passage: Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1)

Adult Question: Would you have the courage to tell others to do as you do in order to be a Christian? Why or why not?

Child Question: What can you do this week to be an example to others?

A Change Of Heart

• Covenant With Noah • Genesis 9:8-15
• Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
• The Purpose Of Christ's Suffering • 1 Peter 3:18-22
• Jesus' Temptation; The Call To Conversion • Mark 1:12-15

Key Passage: For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. (1 Peter 3:18)

Adult Question: When or how could you step away from your daily responsibilities to renew yourself, so that you can do a better job of following in the footsteps of Jesus?

Child Question: What good habit could you work on during Lent so you could grow closer to God?

The Assurance Of Faith

• The Testing Of Abraham • Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18
• Psalm 116:10+15, 16-17, 18-19
• God's Love For Humanity • Romans 8:31b-34
• Jesus Transfigured • Mark 9:2-10

Key Passage: Then Peter said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." (Mark 9:5)

Adult Question: How deeply do you believe that since God is for you, no one can destroy you?

Child Question: What would you like to ask God to do for you and your family?

Source Of Strength

• Water From The Rock • Exodus 17:3-7
• Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7b, 7c-9
• Faith, Hope, And Love • Romans 5:1-2, 5-8
• The Samaritan Woman At The Well • John 4:5-42

Key Passage: Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life." (John 4:13–14)

Adult Question: Where have you found a source of "living water" for your own journey of faith?

Child Question: Name some times when your belief in Jesus helped make you stronger.

Trust And Doubt

• The Ten Commandments • Exodus 20:1-17
• Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
• The Wisdom And Folly Of The Cross • 1 Corinthians 1:22-25
• Cleansing Of The Temple • John 2:13-25

Key Passage: For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. (1 Corinthians 1:22–23)

Adult Question: When has the message of the cross seemed absurd to you, and when have you seen its wisdom?

Child Question: What puzzles you in the gospel stories? Which story makes you the most hopeful?

Source Of Light

• Samuel Anoints David • 1 Samuel 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a
• Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6
• Duty To Live In The Light • Ephesians 5:8-14
• The Man Born Blind • John 9:1-41

Key Passage: For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as Children of light—for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true. (Ephesians 5:8–9)

Adult Question: What are you doing in your life right now to move toward light rather than darkness?

Child Question: How can you let the light of your faith in Jesus shine for others to see?

Through The Eyes Of Faith

• Dissolution Of Judah • 2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23
• Psalm 137:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6
• Generosity Of God's Plan • Ephesians 2:4-10
• Jesus' Teaching To Nicodemus • John 3:14-21

Key Passage: Jesus said to Nicodemus, "Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him." (John 3:17)

Adult Question: Do you see the world as basically evil, or as good? What difference does this make in the way you live?

Child Question: Where do you see goodness in God's world?

Life Everlasting

• Prophecy Of Restoration • Ezekiel 37:12-14
• Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
• The Flesh And The Spirit • Romans 8:8-11
• The Raising Of Lazarus • John 11:1-45

Key Passage: Jesus said to Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25–26)

Adult Question: Christ calls us from death to new life. To what new life are you being called during this Lent?

Child Question: How does Jesus help you do what is good and avoid what is not?

The Reward Of Faith

• The New Covenant • Jeremiah 31:31-34
• Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 14-15
• Jesus, Compassionate High Priest • Hebrews 5:7-9
• The Coming Of Jesus' Hour • John 12:20-33

Key Passage: Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. (John 12:25)

Adult Question: When and in what way have you seen life come from death?

Child Question: When have you felt stronger because you sacrificed something for a friend or member of your family?

Palm Sunday At The Procession With Palms

• The Entry Into Jerusalem • Mark 11:1-10

Key Passage: Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! (Mark 11:9b)

Adult Question: What is your preferred way to pray or show honor to God?

Child Question: What is your favorite way to pray?

Love And Betrayal

• Salvation Only Through The Lord's Servant • Isaiah 50:4-7
• Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24
• Imitating Christ's Humility • Philippians 2:6-11
• The Passion Of Jesus • Mark 14:1-15:47

Key Passage: He began to curse and to swear, “I do not know this man about whom you are talking.” 14:70

Adult Question: When have you felt that you betrayed the confidence of another, as Peter did when he denied Jesus?

Child Question: When have you let someone down who trusted you? How did you feel?

Perfection Through Suffering

• Suffering And Triumph Of The Servant Of The Lord • Isaiah 52:13—53:12
• Psalm 31:2+6, 12-13, 15-16, 17+25
• Jesus, Compassionate High Priest • Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
• The Passion Of Our Lord Jesus Christ • John 18:1—19:42

Key Passage: When you make his life an offering for sin, he shall see his offspring, and shall prolong his days; through him the will of the Lord shall prosper. (Isaiah 53:10)

Adult Question: Can you say that you have grown through your experiences of physical or emotional suffering? Why or why not?

Child Question: How can the story of Jesus' suffering make it easier for you to face something painful or uncomfortable?

New Life In Christ

• First Story Of Creation • Use at least three, or up to seven readings from the OT, but always include #3: 1) Genesis 1:1—2:2 or 1, 26-31a; 2) Genesis 22:1-18 or 1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18; 3) Exodus 14:15—15:1; 4) Isaiah 54:5-14; 5) Isaiah 55:1-11; 6) Baruch 3:9-15, 32-4:4; 7) Ezekiel 36:16-17a, 18-28
• Responses after each OT Reading: 1) Psalm 104:1-2, 5-6, 10+12, 13-14, 24+35 or Psalm 33:4-5, 6-7, 12-13, 20-22; 2) Psalm 16:5+8, 9-10, 11; 3) Exodus 15:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 17-18; 4) Psalm 30:2+4, 5-6, 11-12a+13b; 5) Isaiah 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6; 6) Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11; 7) Psalm 42:3, 5; 43:3, 4 or 51:12-13, 14-15, 18-19
• The Testing Of Abraham • NT Reading: Romans 6:3-11; Response after the Epistle: Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23
• The Women At The Tomb • Gospels for Years A, B, C: A) Matthew 28:1-10; B) Mark 16:1-7; C) Luke 24:1-12

Key Passage: Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. (Romans 6:4)

Adult Question: What benefits has the new life of baptism brought to your life?

Child Question: If someone who was not a Christian asked you what difference it makes to be baptized, what would you say?

Made New By Christ

• Peter's Discourse • Acts of the Apostles 10:34a, 37-43
• Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23
• Mystical Death And Resurrection • Colossians 3:1-4
• Peter And The Disciple At The Tomb • John 20:1-9

Key Passage: Clean out the old yeast so that you may be a new batch, as you really are unleavened. For our paschal lamb, Christ, has been sacrificed. (1 Corinthians 5:7)

Adult Question: What change could the hope of the resurrection of Christ inspire you to make?

Child Question: What bad habit would you like to "clear out" during the hopeful time of this Easter season?

Following The Example Of Jesus

• Life Of The Christians • Acts of the Apostles 4:32-35
• Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
• Belief In Jesus Christ • 1 John 5:1-6
• Appearance To The Disciples • John 20:19-31

Key Passage: Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul; no one claimed private ownership of any possessions; everything they owned was held in common. (Acts 4:32)

Adult Question: What could you do this week to inspire your family to resemble the early Christians more closely?

Child Question: What could you and your family do to help others who are in need?

The Living Christ

• Peter's Discourse On Jesus' Resurrection • Acts of the Apostles 3:13-15, 17-19
• Psalm 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9
• Keeping The Commandments • 1 John 2:1-5a
• Jesus Appears To The Eleven • Luke 24:35-48

Key Passage: Jesus said to them, "Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself." (Luke 24:38–39)

Adult Question: What questions about Jesus still arise in the midst of your faith?

Child Question: What question would you like to ask someone about Jesus' appearance to the Apostles?

Called To Be Shepherds

• The Stone That Has Become The Cornerstone • Acts of the Apostles 4:8-12
• Psalm 118:1+8-9, 21-23, 26+21+29
• Recognizing The Son • 1 John 3:1-2
• The Good Shepherd • John 10:11-18

Key Passage: Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:11)

Adult Question: Whom are you shepherding in your life right now, and who shepherds you?

Child Question: Who has been like a shepherd to you by their example? For whom could you be a shepherd?

Strengthening Your Faith

• Saul Visits Jerusalem • Acts of the Apostles 9:26-31
• Psalm 22:26-27, 28+30, 31-32
• The Actions Of Believers • 1 John 3:18-24
• The Vine And The Branches • John 15:1-8

Key Passage: [The vine grower] removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. (John 15:2)

Adult Question: When have you been "pruned" by your experiences in a way that led to greater abundance?

Child Question: When have you felt stronger or better because you did something hard to help another person?

Love Of Your Neighbor

• Peter In Caesarea • Acts of the Apostles 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48
• Psalm 98:1, 2-3a, 3b-4
• God's Love And Ours • 1 John 4:7-10
• A Disciple's Love • John 15:9-17

Key Passage: Jesus said, "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." (John 15:12)

Adult Question: How is love of others connected to love for God?

Child Question: Who needs Jesus' love this week? How can you show them his love?

Prayer For Others

• Stephen's Martyrdom • Acts of the Apostles 1:15-17, 20a, 20c-26
• Psalm 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20
• Blessed Are Those Who Follow The Lamb • 1 John 4:11-16
• Prayer For All Believers • John 17:11b-19

Key Passage: Jesus prayed, "I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me." (John 18:20–21)

Adult Question: What are some of the most important things to ask of God?

Child Question: What are some of the most important things to ask of God?

Live In The Spirit

• Descent Of The Holy Spirit • Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11
• Psalm 104:1+24, 29-30, 31+34
• Fruits Of The Spirit • Galatians 5:16-25
• Coming Of The Holy Spirit • John 15:26-27; 16:12-15

Key Passage: And they were all filled with the holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues (Acts 2:4)

Adult Question: When have you felt filled with the Spirit and emboldened to act with courage?

Child Question: When have you felt strength from outside of yourself to do what was right?

Signs Of God's Love

• Proofs Of God's Love • Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40
• Psalm 33:4-5, 6+9, 18-19, 20+22
• Sons Of God Through Adoption • Romans 8:14-17
• Commission Of The Apostles • Matthew 28:16-20

Key Passage: Moses said to the people, "For ask now about former ages, long before your own, ever since the day that God created human beings on the earth; ask from one end of heaven to the other: has anything so great as this ever happened or has its like ever been heard of?" (Deuteronomy 4:32)

Adult Question: What signs of God's love have you witnessed in your life?

Child Question: How can you be a sign of God's love to others this week?

Bread For Others

• Ratification Of The Covenant • Exodus 24:3-8
• Psalm 116:12-13, 15-16, 17-18
• The Sacrifice Of Jesus • Hebrews 9:11-15
• Passover Preparation • Mark 14:12-16, 22-26

Key Passage: While they were eating, he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said, "Take; this is my body." (Mark 14:22)

Adult Question: In what ways have you practiced the words of Jesus and been bread for others?

Child Question: What can you do to prepare to celebrate Holy Communion with your parish family?

Love For All

• The Fall • Genesis 3:9-15
• Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
• Paradox Of The Ministry • 2 Corinthians 4:13—5:1
• Jesus And Beelzebul; Jesus And His Family • Mark 3:20-35

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother." (Mark 3:35)

Adult Question: In what way could you widen the circle of your family to include someone in need?

Child Question: Whom could you invite to share a happy time with your family?

Living In God's Kingdom

• Prophecy Of The Restoration Of Israel • Ezekiel 17:22-24
• Psalm 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16
• Walking By Faith • 2 Corinthians 5:6-10
• Seed Grows By Itself And The Mustard Seed • Mark 4:26-34

Key Passage: Yet when [the mustard seed] is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade. (Mark 4:32)

Adult Question: What is the "good soil" that has allowed your faith to grow like the mustard seed and provide shelter for others?

Child Question: How do you help your faith grow like the mustard seed?

Gift Of Peace

• The Lord's Speech To Job • Job 38:1, 8-11
• Psalm 107:23-24, 25-26, 28-29, 30-31
• The Ministry Of Reconciliation • 2 Corinthians 5:14-17
• The Storm On The Sea • Mark 4:35-41

Key Passage: Jesus said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, "Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?" (Mark 4:39–40)

Adult Question: When has the Lord calmed the stormy seas of your life?

Child Question: What fear would you like the Lord to help you overcome?

Rich In Love

• God's Justice And Its Rejection By The Wicked • Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24
• Psalm 30:2+4, 5-6, 11-12a+13b
• Liberal Giving • 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15
• The Daughter Of Jairus; The Woman With A Hemorrhage • Mark 5:21-43

Key Passage: For you know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. (2 Corinthians 8:9)

Adult Question: When have you felt enriched by a sacrifice you made for another?

Child Question: Whom could you help by your acts of kindness this week?

Self Acceptance

• The Lord Speaks To Ezekiel • Ezekiel 2:2-5
• Psalm 123:1-2a, 2bc, 3-4
• Paul's Weakness • 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
• Jesus At Nazareth • Mark 6:1-6

Key Passage: [Paul said,] Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:8)

Adult Question: What unavoidable weakness in yourself do you struggle to accept?

Child Question: What have you wished would be different or better about you?

Sharing Good News

• Amos Called By God To Prophesy • Amos 7:12-15
• Psalm 85:9ab+10, 11-12, 13-14
• Blessing For Jew And Gentile • Ephesians 1:3-14
• The Mission Of The Twelve • Mark 6:7-13

Key Passage: He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. (Mark 6:7)

Adult Question: What good news of Jesus can you share with others this week?

Child Question: What good news of Jesus can you share with others this week?

Come Away And Rest

• Messianic Reign • Jeremiah 23:1-6
• Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6
• All United In Christ • Ephesians 2:13-18
• Return Of The Disciples • Mark 6:30-34

Key Passage: The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." (Mark 6:30–31a)

Adult Question: What do you do to rest so that you can return to work refreshed?

Child Question: When will you take time to stop and pray this week?

Gifts Of Hope

• Elisha: The Multiplication Of Loaves • 2 Kings 4:42-44
• Psalm 145:10-11, 15-16, 17-18
• Unity In The Mystical Body • Ephesians 4:1-6
• Multiplication Of The Loaves • John 6:1-15

Key Passage: When [the people] were satisfied, he told his disciples, "Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost." So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets. (John 6:12–13)

Adult Question: When has the generous gift of another offered you hope?

Child Question: What loving gift could you give to another person this week?

The Eyes Of Faith

• Manna In The Desert • Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15
• Psalm 78:3-4, 23-24, 25+54
• Renewal In Christ • Ephesians 4:17, 20-24
• Discourse On The Bread Of Life • John 6:24-35

Key Passage: So they said to Jesus, "What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing?" (John 6:30)

Adult Question: When has your faith helped you believe without "seeing signs" from God?

Child Question: Who helps you believe in things you cannot see?

Life For The World

• Elijah's Flight To Horeb • 1 Kings 19:4-8
• Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9
• Vices To Be Avoided • Ephesians 4:30—5:2
• Discourse On The Bread Of Life, Continued • John 6:41-51

Key Passage: Jesus said, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh." (John 6:51)

Adult Question: When has the bread of life given you the strength you needed to face a difficult situation in your life?

Child Question: What will you ask Jesus to help you with when you receive Holy Communion this week?

Assumption

• The Ark Brought To Jerusalem • Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a; 10ab
• Psalm 45:10, 11, 12, 16
• Glorification Of The Body • 1 Corinthians 15:20-27
• True Happiness By Keeping The Word Of God • Luke 1:39-56

Key Passage: "Death has been swallowed up in victory." (1 Cor 15:54)

Adult Question: How does your belief in external life affect your daily life?

Child Question: What does it mean to have hope?

Promise Of Eternal Life

• Forsake Foolishness • Proverbs 9:1-6
• Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
• Sing Praise To The Lord • Ephesians 5:15-20
• Discourse On The Bread Of Life, Continued • John 6:51-58

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day." (John 6:54)

Adult Question: How does Jesus' promise of eternal life affect the way you live today?

Child Question: How often do you think about heaven? Does it make a difference in the choices you make?

Christian Marriage

• Reminder Of The Divine Goodness • Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b
• Psalm 34:2-3, 16-17, 18-19, 20-21
• Christian Wives And Husbands • Ephesians 5:21-32
• Effect Of The Bread Of Life Discourse • John 6:60-69

Key Passage: This is a great mystery, and I am applying it to Christ and the church. Each of you, however, should love his wife as himself, and a wife should respect her husband. (Ephesians 5:32–33)

Adult Question: In what way has the example of Christian marriage (your own or that of another couple) helped you understand the relationship between Christ and his church?

Child Question: What can you do for your family to show them Jesus' love and care?

Doers Of The Word

• Advantages Of Fidelity • Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8
• Psalm 15:2-3a, 3b-4a, 4b-5
• Response To God's Gift • James 1:17-18, 21b-22, 27
• Jesus And The Pharisees • Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

Key Passage: Welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. (James 1:21–22)

Adult Question: Which words of Jesus provide the most inspiration for the Christian work that you do?

Child Question: How do you welcome the words of Jesus into your heart?

Rich In Faith

• Israel's Deliverance • Isaiah 35:4-7a
• Psalm 146:6c-7, 8-9a, 9b-10
• Against Favoritism • James 2:1-5
• Healing Of A Deaf Mute • Mark 7:31-37

Key Passage: Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters. Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and to be heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love him? (James 2:5)

Adult Question: When has your faith in Jesus enabled you to speak out on an issue of importance?

Child Question: What does your belief in Jesus mean to you?

Time Faith And Works

• Salvation Through The Lord's Servant • Isaiah 50:4-9a
• Psalm 116:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
• Faith And Good Works • James 2:14-18
• First Teaching Of The Paschal Event And The Doctrine Of The Cross • Mark 8:27-35

Key Passage: Faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from your works, and I by my works will show you my faith. (James 2:17–18)

Adult Question: Why should faith always lead to good works?

Child Question: What good works can you do to show your faith in Jesus?

True Wisdom

• The Wicked Speak • Wisdom 2:12, 17-20
• Psalm 54:3-4, 5, 6-8
• True Wisdom And Worldly Desires • James 3:16—4:3
• Second Teaching Of The Paschal Event And Words Against Ambition And Envy • Mark 9:30-37

Key Passage: He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, "Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all." (Mark 9:35)

Adult Question: What evidence do you see in the world around you that many do not accept Jesus' teaching on power and ambition?

Child Question: Why do you think Jesus says if you want to be first you should take care of others?

Setting Priorities

• Sharing The Gift Of Prophecy • Numbers 11:25-29
• Psalm 19:8, 10, 12-13, 14
• Saving The Right Focus • James 5:1-6
• Sharing Our Possessions • Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48

Key Passage: Listen! The wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. (James 5:4)

Adult Question: What are the three most important values motivating your daily decisions?

Child Question: Could a poor person who is wise be richer in a way than a foolish person who has many things? Why?

Childlike Faith

• Second Story Of Creation, The Creation Of Woman • Genesis 2:18-24
• Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6
• Jesus' Exaltation Through Abasement • Hebrews 2:9-11
• Question Of Divorce And Jesus Blessing The Children • Mark 10:2-16

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it." (Mark 10:15)

Adult Question: What could keep you from embracing the kingdom of God like a little child?

Child Question: How do you feel when you hear the wonderful stories of God's love for you?

Danger Of Riches

• Solomon And The Riches Of Wisdom • Wisdom 7:7-11
• Psalm 90:12-13, 14-15, 16-17
• God's Living Word • Hebrews 4:12-13
• The Danger Of Riches: Jesus And The Rich Man • Mark 10:17-30

Key Passage: Jesus said, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." (Mark 10:25)

Adult Question: How can the pleasures and comforts of this world become barriers to your relationship with God?

Child Question: What favorite toy, game, video, etc., of yours would you be willing to share with someone this week?

Quiet Sacrifice

• The Suffering Servant • Isaiah 53:10-11
• Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20+22
• Jesus, Compassionate High Priest • Hebrews 4:14-16
• Ambition Of James And John • Mark 10:35-45

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all." (Mark 10:44)

Adult Question: Why is it hard to do good works if you will not be acknowledged for them?

Child Question: Are you willing to do a good deed even if no one knows that you did it? Why?

The Eyes Of Faith

• The Restoration • Jeremiah 31:7-9
• Psalm 126:1-2a, 2b-3, 4-5, 6
• Jesus, The High Priest • Hebrews 5:1-6
• The Blind Bartimaeus • Mark 10:46-52

Key Passage: Jesus said to him, "Go; your faith has made you well." Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way. (Mark 10:52)

Adult Question: What have your eyes of faith helped you see in a new way?

Child Question: What do you like most about the story of Bartimaeus? Why?

All Saints

• Rejoicing Of The Elect • Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14
• Psalm 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6
• Children Of God • 1 John 3:1-3
• The Beatitudes • Matthew 5:1-12a

Key Passage: See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God. (1 John 3:1)

Adult Question: What qualities do you see in yourself that mark you as a child of God?

Child Question: What is good about being a child of God?

The Greatest Commandment

• The Great Commandment • Deuteronomy 6:2-6
• Psalm 18:2-3a, 3b-4, 47+51
• Jesus, The Eternal High Priest • Hebrews 7:23-28
• The Greatest Commandment • Mark 12:28b-34

Key Passage: [The scribe] asked him, "Which commandment is the first of all?" Jesus answered, "The first is, 'Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.'" (Mark 12:28–30)

Adult Question: Why is love of neighbor as important as love of God?

Child Question: When do you show that you love God and your neighbor with your whole heart?

Giving From Our Need

• Elijah And The Widow • 1 Kings 17:10-16
• Psalm 146:6c-7, 8-9a, 9b-10
• The Sacrifice Of Jesus • Hebrews 9:24-28
• Hypocrisy Of The Scribes, And The Widow's Mite • Mark 12:38-44

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on." (Mark 12:43–44)

Adult Question: What are you willing to give out of love for God that would be a hardship for you?

Child Question: What would you be willing to give up for someone else?

Ready For The Lord

• Daniel's Conclusion To The Apocalypse • Daniel 12:1-3
• Psalm 16:5+8, 9-10, 11
• Christ's Eternal Sacrifice • Hebrews 10:11-14, 18
• The Second Coming • Mark 13:24-32

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come." (Mark 13:33)

Adult Question: What would you be doing differently in your life if you truly believed you would meet Christ soon?

Child Question: What would you do for others today if you thought you would not have another chance to do it?

Given The Kingdom

• Daniel's Vision Of One Like The Son Of Man • Daniel 7:13-14
• Psalm 93:1a, 1b-2, 5
• Praise To Jesus Christ • Revelation 1:5-8
• The Blood And Water • John 18:33b-37

Key Passage: To him who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood, and made us to be a kingdom, priests serving his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (Revelation: 1:5b–6)

Adult Question: In what ways is Jesus the ruler of your life?

Child Question: How can you show that you honor Jesus as the king of your life?