Putting On The Light Of Christ

• Zion, The Messianic Capital • Isaiah 2:1-5
• Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4a, 4b-5, 6-7, 8-9
• Christian Use Of Time • Romans 13:11-14
• The Need For Watchfulness • Matthew 24:37-44

Key Passage: Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. (Romans 13:12b)

Adult Question: What will you do during Advent so that others can see that you have put on the light of Jesus Christ?

Child Question: What will you do during Advent so that others can see the light of Jesus in you?

Our Need To Change

• The Rule Of Emmanuel • Isaiah 11:1-10
• Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17
• Prayer Of Encouragement • Romans 15:4-9
• John The Baptist • Matthew 3:1-12

Key Passage: This is the one [John the Baptist] of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." (Matthew 3:3)

Adult Question: What do you need to change so that others can learn from watching you that Christ walks among us?

Child Question: What could you do so that others will see in you what it means to follow Jesus?

Actions Worthy Of Praise

• Israel's Deliverance • Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10
• Psalm 146:6c-7, 8-9a, 9b-10
• Patience • James 5:7-10
• Christ's Witness To John • Matthew 11:2-11

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he." (Matthew 11:11)

Adult Question: How do you prepare yourself to meet Christ in those around you?

Child Question: What good thing have you done so far during Advent to be like Jesus?

Welcoming Light

• Birth Of Emmanuel • Isaiah 7:10-14
• Psalm 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6
• Greetings From Paul • Romans 1:1-7
• The Birth Of Jesus • Matthew 1:18-24

Key Passage: When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took Mary as his wife. (Matthew 1:24)

Adult Question: Whom do you find it difficult to welcome in your life? What can you do to overcome that?

Child Question: What could you do this week to make someone feel welcome, as Joseph welcomed Mary?

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

• Duties Toward Parents • Sirach 3:3-7, 14-17a
• Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5
• The Practice Of Virtues • Colossians 3:12-21
• The Finding In The Temple • Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

Key Passage: Jesus went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. (Luke 2:51a)

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

Child Question: Why did Joseph leave Israel? How can he be an example for you?

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?

Pleasing To God

• The Servant Of The Lord • Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7
• Psalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 3b+9b-10
• Peter's Discourse; The Good News Of Peace • Acts of the Apostles 10:34-38
• Baptism Of Jesus • Matthew 3:13-17

Key Passage: And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." (Luke 3:2)

Adult Question: Do you think that God was "well pleased" by your actions in recent weeks? Why?

Child Question: What good thing could you do this week that would be pleasing to God?

Jesus, The Son Of God

• The Servant Of The Lord • Isaiah 49:3, 5-6
• Psalm 40:2+4, 7-8a, 8b-9, 10
• Greeting To The Church • 1 Corinthians 1:1-3
• John's Testimony To Jesus • John 1:29-34

Key Passage: [John said,] "I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel." (John 1:31)

Adult Question: We witness to Christ as John did, by living lives full of generosity, forgiveness, and mercy toward others. When do you find it most difficult to do this?

Child Question: Who has surprised you by doing something kind for you when you did not expect it?

Following Jesus

• The Prince Of Peace • Isaiah 8:23b—9:3
• Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14
• Factions • 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17
• Jesus In Capernaum • Matthew 4:12-23

Key Passage: Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people. (Matthew 4:23)

Adult Question: To whom could you preach the gospel of Jesus Christ this week with actions rather than words?

Child Question: What could you do for someone this week that would tell them something about Jesus?

Blessed Are We

• Promise For Jerusalem • Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13
• Psalm 146:6c-7, 8-9a, 9b-10
• Paradox Of God's Choice • 1 Corinthians 1:26-31
• The Beatitudes • Matthew 5:1-12a

Key Passage: Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:11–12)

Adult Question: When you heard the Beatitudes announced today, which one struck you most strongly?

Child Question: Who is welcome in the reign of God? Who would you like to tell about the reign of God?

Spreading The Light Of Christ

• True Fasting • Isaiah 58:7-10
• Psalm 112:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
• Preaching On Christ Crucified • 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
• The Similes Of Salt And Light • Matthew 5:13-16

Key Passage: Jesus said, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

Adult Question: In what way might you be hiding the light of Christ from others? What could you do to improve this?

Child Question: How can you let the light of Christ in you shine for others this week?

Implications Of The New Law

• Our Free Will • Sirach 15:16-21
• Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34
• True Wisdom • 1 Corinthians 2:6-10
• The Old Law And The New • Matthew 5:17-37

Key Passage: Jesus said, "So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift." (Matthew 5:23–24)

Adult Question: How do you reconcile with those who have offended or hurt you?

Child Question: When have you taken the first step to make up with someone who has hurt you or whom you have offended?

Overcoming Temptation

• The Fall Of Humankind • Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7
• Psalm 51:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14+17
• Humanity's Sin Through Adam • Romans 5:12-19
• The Temptation Of Jesus • Matthew 4:1-11

Key Passage: Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Matthew 4:1)

Adult Question: What helpful advice could you offer someone faced with a temptation?

Child Question: What helps you do the right thing when you want to do something wrong?

Call To Faithfulness

• Call Of Abraham • Genesis 12:1-4a
• Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20+22
• Exhortation To Faithfulness • 2 Timothy 1:8b-10
• Jesus Transfigured • Matthew 17:1-9

Key Passage: Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. (Matthew 17:1–2)

Adult Question: What difference does your faith in Jesus Christ make in your life?

Child Question: What does it mean to you to be a holy person?

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.

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?

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?

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 • Matthew 26:14-27:66

Key Passage: The Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times." (Luke 22:61)

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?

Encouraging Others

• Communal Life • Acts of the Apostles 2:42-47
• Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
• Thanksgiving • 1 Peter 1:3-9
• Appearance To The Disciples; Thomas • John 20:19-31

Key Passage: Then Jesus said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." (John 20:27)

Adult Question: We show our faith when we demonstrate courage in the face of difficulty. What could you do this week to help strengthen someone?

Child Question: What could you do this week to encourage someone who is sad or discouraged?

Recognizing The Lord

• Peter's Discourse • Acts of the Apostles 2:14, 22-33
• Psalm 16:1-2a+5, 7-8, 9-10, 11
• Filial Obedience • 1 Peter 1:17-21
• Emmaus • Luke 24:13-35

Key Passage: When he was at the table with the disciples, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. (Luke 24:30–31)

Adult Question: In what way have you come to know Jesus better through the breaking of the bread at Eucharist?

Child Question: When you join Jesus at the table of the Eucharist next Sunday, what would you like to thank him for?

Called To Be Shepherds

• Peter's Discourse • Acts of the Apostles 2:14a, 36-41
• Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6
• For The Slave • 1 Peter 2:20b-25
• The Good Shepherd • John 10:1-10

Key Passage: [The shepherd] goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. (John 10:4)

Adult Question: How are you a shepherd to those in your care?

Child Question: What will you do this week to show you love those around you?

Jesus, The Way

• The Need Of Assistants • Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7
• Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19
• Living Stones • 1 Peter 2:4-9
• Last Discourse: The Way, The Truth, And The Life • John 14:1-12

Key Passage: I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)

Adult Question: In a challenge you face right now, what will it mean to live the way of Jesus Christ?

Child Question: Name some ways you can be more like Jesus when you are playing with your friends or family.

The Strength Of Faith

• Philip In Samaria • Acts of the Apostles 8:5-8, 14-17
• Psalm 66:1-3, 4-5, 6-7, 16+20
• On Christian Suffering • 1 Peter 3:15-18
• Promise Of The Paraclete • John 14:15-21

Key Passage: Jesus said, "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever." (John 14:16)

Adult Question: The Spirit gives us inner wisdom and strength. When have you experienced this?

Child Question: The Holy Spirit makes you strong inside. When do you need to be strong?

Praying For Others

• Matthias Chosen • Acts of the Apostles 1:12-14
• Psalm 27:1, 4, 7-8
• Love For One Another • 1 Peter 4:13-16
• Jesus' Prayer For The Disciples • John 17:1-11a

Key Passage: [Jesus prayed to his Father,] "I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours." (John 17:9)

Adult Question: Who needs you to pray for them this week, as Jesus prayed for his disciples?

Child Question: Who will you pray for this week?

Gifts For Service

• Descent Of The Holy Spirit • Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11
• Psalm 104:1+24, 29-30, 31+34
• Many Gifts, One Spirit, And The Analogy Of The Body • 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13
• Appearance To The Disciples • John 20:19-23

Key Passage: Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord. (1 Corinthians 12:4–5)

Adult Question: What gift of service have you received from the Holy Spirit and how well are you using it right now?

Child Question: What gift do you hope to receive from the Holy Spirit? How could you use it to serve others?

A God Of Love

• Renewal Of The Tablets • Exodus 34:4b-6, 8-9
• Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55
• Farewell • 2 Corinthians 13:11-13
• Belief In The Son Sent By The Father • John 3:16-18

Key Passage: For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. (John 3:16)

Adult Question: We live within the Trinity whenever we live in love. How does this mystery connect to your daily life?

Child Question: How do you choose to live as a more loving person?

Bread For Others

• God's Care • Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14b-16a
• Psalm 147:12-13, 14-15, 19-20
• The Eucharist Vs. Pagan Sacrifices • 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
• The Living Bread • John 6:51-58

Key Passage: 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: What does it mean for you right now to be bread for others as Jesus was?

Child Question: In what ways can Jesus' presence in the Eucharist help you do good things for others?

The Compassion Of Jesus

• Requirements Of The Covenant At Sinai • Exodus 19:2-6a
• Psalm 100:1-2, 3, 5
• Sinners Saved By Christ • Romans 5:6-11
• The Compassion Of Jesus; Mission Of The Twelve • Matthew 9:36—10:8

Key Passage: Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. (Matthew 10:8)

Adult Question: What responsibility do you have to the less fortunate, and how actively are you meeting it?

Child Question: In what ways can you be generous to others this week?

The Reassurance Of Faith

• Jeremiah's Faith In Crisis • Jeremiah 20:10-13
• Psalm 69:8-10, 14+17, 33-35
• Mankind's Sin Through Adam • Romans 5:12-15
• Reassurance To The Twelve • Matthew 10:26-33

Key Passage: Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. (Matthew 10:28a)

Adult Question: When has your faith in Jesus been most seriously tested?

Child Question: What could you do to encourage someone who is feeling hurt?

Showing Christ To Others

• Elisha And The Shunammite Woman • 2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16a
• Psalm 89:2-3, 16-17, 18-19
• Death To Sin, Life In God • Romans 6:3-4, 8-11
• Conditions And Rewards Of Discipleship • Matthew 10:37-42

Key Passage: Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. (Matthew 10:39)

Adult Question: When have you felt more fully alive by giving of yourself to another?

Child Question: When have you been able to put what someone else needs ahead of what you want for yourself?

Laying Down Your Burdens

• Restoration Under The Messiah • Zechariah 9:9-10
• Psalm 145:1-2, 8-9, 10-11, 13-14
• Indwelling Of The Spirit • Romans 8:9, 11-13
• Jesus And His Father • Matthew 11:25-30

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28–29)

Adult Question: When has Jesus refreshed you when you felt burdened by problems?

Child Question: What burden do you need Jesus to help you carry?

Seeds Of Faith

• Triumph Of God's Word • Isaiah 55:10-11
• Psalm 65:10, 11, 12-13, 14
• Destiny Of Glory • Romans 8:18-23
• Parable Of The Seed • Matthew 13:1-23

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty." (Matthew 13:7–8)

Adult Question: How do you provide "good soil" for the faith of others to grow?

Child Question: What are you doing to help the seeds of your faith grow each day?

Overcoming Weakness

• On God's Mercy • Wisdom 12:13, 16-19
• Psalm 86:5-6, 9-10, 15-16
• The Intercession Of The Spirit • Romans 8:26-27
• The Parable Of The Weeds • Matthew 13:24-43

Key Passage: Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. (Romans 8:26)

Adult Question: What weakness can the power of the Spirit help you overcome?

Child Question: When will you need the help of the Holy Spirit this week?

Commitment

• Wisdom Of Solomon • 1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
• Psalm 119:57+72, 76-77, 127-28, 129-30
• God's Love For All • Romans 8:28-30
• The Treasure And The Pearl • Matthew 13:44-52

Key Passage: The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. (Matthew 13:44)

Adult Question: What would you be willing to "sell," or do without, in order to achieve your dreams for yourself or your family?

Child Question: What good thing do you want so much that you would give up something else to get it?

Acting With Courage

• Invitation To Grace • Isaiah 55:1-3
• Psalm 145:8-9, 15-16, 17-18
• Indomitable Love Of Christ • Romans 8:35, 37-39
• Jesus Feeds Five Thousand • Matthew 14:13-21

Key Passage: For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38–39)

Adult Question: To whom could you bring the assurance of Christ's love this week?

Child Question: Jesus fed the crowds today. How does he offer you spiritual nourishment?

Faith In The Lord

• Elijah's Flight To Horeb • 1 Kings 19:9a, 11-13a
• Psalm 85:9ab+10, 11-12, 13-14
• Grief For The Jews; God's Free Choice • Romans 9:1-5
• Jesus Walks On Water • Matthew 14:22-33

Key Passage: Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:31)

Adult Question: When have you doubted the loving care of God for you as the apostles did in the boat?

Child Question: How do you know that Jesus is with you at all times?

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?

All Are Welcome

• The Lord's House Open To All • Isaiah 56:1, 6-7
• Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6+8
• Israel's Final Conversion; The Triumph Of God's Mercy • Romans 11:13-15, 29-32
• Faith Of The Canaanite Woman • Matthew 15:21-28

Key Passage: For my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. (Isaiah 56:7)

Adult Question: The woman in this story was persistent in prayer. For what do you pray insistently?

Child Question: For what do you ask God to give you most often?

Representatives Of Christ

• Eliakim Chosen By God • Isaiah 22:19-23
• Psalm 138:1-2a, 2b-3, 6+8
• Praise Of God • Romans 11:33-36
• Peter The Rock • Matthew 16:13-20

Key Passage: He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." (Matthew 16:15–16)

Adult Question: If you were asked, how would you explain Jesus to a person who had not heard of him?

Child Question: Who do you tell people Jesus is?

Come, Follow Me

• Jeremiah's Interior Crisis • Jeremiah 20:7-9
• Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
• Sacrifice Of Body And Mind • Romans 12:1-2
• First Prophecy Of Passion And Resurrection; Doctrine Of The Cross • Matthew 16:21-27

Key Passage: Then Jesus told his disciples, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." (Matthew 16:24)

Adult Question: In what concrete ways do you take up your cross and follow Jesus?

Child Question: When has it been difficult to be a follower of Jesus?

Helping Others Grow

• The Prophet A Watchman • Ezekiel 33:7-9
• Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7b, 7c-9
• Love Fulfills The Law • Romans 13:8-10
• Fraternal Correction • Matthew 18:15-20

Key Passage: Jesus said, "If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone." (Matthew 18:15)

Adult Question: How have you been able to follow Christ more closely because others patiently loved you?

Child Question: How can you help another person do the right thing?

Forgiveness And Mercy

• Call To Forgiveness And Mercy • Sirach 27:30—28:7
• Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12
• To Live And Die For Christ • Romans 14:7-9
• The Merciless Official • Matthew 18:21-35

Key Passage: Then Peter came and said to him, "Lord, if another member of the church sins against me, how often should I forgive? As many as seven times?" Jesus said to him, "Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times." (Matthew 18:21–22)

Adult Question: When someone hurts you, how do you forgive them?

Child Question: When have you forgiven someone who treated you unfairly?

God's Generosity

• Seeking The Lord • Isaiah 55:6-9
• Psalm 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18
• Spreading The Gospel • Philippians 1:20c-24, 27a
• The Laborers In The Vineyard • Matthew 20:1-16a

Key Passage: [The landowner] said "Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?" (Matthew 20:14–15)

Adult Question: What lessons do you draw from today's Gospel? How has God been generous to you in this way?

Child Question: Who is generous to you, even when you do not always deserve it?

The Challenge To Forgive

• Personal Responsibility • Ezekiel 18:25-28
• Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
• Imitating The Humility Of Christ • Philippians 2:1-11
• Parable Of The Two Sons • Matthew 21:28-32

Key Passage: A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, "Son, go and work in the vineyard today." He answered, "I will not"; but later he changed his mind and went. The father went to the second and said the same; and he answered, "I go, sir"; but he did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father? They said, "The first." (Matthew 21:28–31)

Adult Question: When have your actions not measured up to your promises? What was the outcome?

Child Question: Why is it important to follow through on your promises to others?

Dealing With Injustice

• The Vineyard Song • Isaiah 5:1-7
• Psalm 80:9+12, 13-14, 15-16, 19-20
• Joy And Peace In Christ • Philippians 4:6-9
• Parable Of The Tenants • Matthew 21:33-43

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that will produce its fruit." (Matthew 21:43)

Adult Question: How have you used your talents and abilities well for the Reign of God?

Child Question: What can you do in your week to help the love of God grow in the world?

Living Our Faith

• A Feast For All Peoples • Isaiah 25:6-10a
• Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6
• Generosity • Philippians 4:12-14, 19-20
• The Wedding Banquet • Matthew 22:1-14

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Many are invited, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14)

Adult Question: How do you translate your faith into the work of the Reign of God?

Child Question: What three things can you do this week to show that you are a follower of Jesus?

Social Responsibility

• Rewards To Cyrus, King Of Persia • Isaiah 45:1, 4-6
• Psalm 96:1+3, 4-5, 7-8, 9-10
• A Model For Believers • 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5b
• Paying Tax To The Emperor • Matthew 22:15-21

Key Passage: At that [Jesus] said to them "Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor's, and to God the things that are God's." (Matthew 22:21)

Adult Question: How much responsibility do you feel the government should take for meeting the needs of the less fortunate in our society? How willing are you to contribute?

Child Question: Who needs help in your neighborhood or community? What could you and your family do to help?

Love Of Neighbor

• Social Laws • Exodus 22:20-26
• Psalm 18:2-3a, 3b-4, 47+51
• A Model For Believers • 1 Thessalonians 1:5c-10
• The Greatest Commandment • Matthew 22:34-40

Key Passage: [Jesus] said to him " 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Matthew 22:37–39)

Adult Question: In a practical sense, what is one thing that would change in your life if you loved your neighbor as yourself?

Child Question: Why is it hard sometimes to love your neighbor?

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?

Actions And Consequences

• The Availability Of Wisdom To Those Who Seek • Wisdom 6:12-16
• Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
• Resurrection Of The Dead • 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
• Parable Of The Ten Virgins • Matthew 25:1-13

Key Passage: Jesus said, "Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour." (Matthew 25:13)

Adult Question: We meet Christ sometimes when we least expect it. How can you be ready to see him in all the ways he is present?

Child Question: What are some surprising ways in which you meet Christ in your daily life?

Using Your Gifts

• The Ideal Wife • Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31
• Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5
• The Need For Preparation • 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6
• Parable Of The Silver Pieces • Matthew 25:14-30

Key Passage: [The servant said,] "Master, you handed over to me five talents; see, I have made five more talents." His master said to him, "Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master." (Matthew 25:20b–21)

Adult Question: What gift have you not developed as you had hoped? What could you still do?

Child Question: What gift has God given you? What do you want to do with it?

The Final Judgment

• Parable Of The Shepherds • Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17
• Psalm 23:1-2a, 2b-3, 5, 6
• Christ, The First Fruits • 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28
• The Last Judgment • Matthew 25:31-46

Key Passage: [The Son of Man] will answer them, "Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me." (Matthew 25:45)

Adult Question: Who are the least of your sisters and brothers for whom you do care? Who are those whom you ignore?

Child Question: To which person did you especially try to show the love and care of Jesus?