Catholic resources for youth ministry, religious education, and families
This Week's Resources, Sunday Readings, Weekday Readings, and Feast Days
Recently Shared Resources
ABC Prayer Circle
The ABC Prayer Circle is a group prayer activity that brings variety and creativity to youth ministry. Each person is given a letter of the alphabet and prays for something that begins with that letter. It helps young people break out of routine prayers and discover new ways to talk to God. This activity works well with themes like prayer, intercession, listening, and building community. It can also be tied to Scripture and Catholic teaching. Great for youth groups, families, and religious education classes. Try it as a way to build confidence in prayer and help youth speak from their own experience.
Actions Speak Louder than Words Lesson Plan
This Actions Speak Louder than Words lesson plan on the Parable of the Two Sons helps us consider that we cannot just say we are Christians. We must also act. And we must sometimes have the humility to admit we were wrong and then do the right thing.
Have No Anxiety: A Lesson Plan on Trusting In God
This Have No Anxiety reflection on Philippians 4:6-9 encourages youth to consider how trusting in God can alleviate fear and help us to live in freedom.
Love Definitions Icebreaker Game
The Love Definitions game invites youth to explore what love means by creating short, creative definitions in five words or fewer. This simple and engaging activity helps young people connect faith and daily life while reflecting on God’s call to love. It works well for youth ministry sessions focused on love, mercy, kindness, or forgiveness. The game encourages laughter, thought, and faith-sharing as participants learn how love shapes their relationships and their understanding of God.
Our Lady Undoer of Knots
Our Lady, Undoer of Knots is a special title for Mary. She helps untangle the struggles, sins, and worries in our lives. This devotion comes from an old painting that shows Mary untying knots in a ribbon. Many people turn to her when they feel stuck or overwhelmed. She takes our problems to Jesus and helps us trust God’s plan. This devotion has grown over time, and even Pope Francis has shared its importance. If you are facing difficulties, Our Lady, Undoer of Knots is ready to help. Learn more about her story and how she can guide you through life’s challenges.
Sunday Readings, Weekday Readings, and Feast Days
Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels
The archangels are leaders of angels in the army of God. These three archangels are mentioned in scripture. Their feast day is on September 29.
St. Jerome, Priest and Doctor
St. Jerome was born in 347 A.D. He became a Christian in his late teens.He is best known for translating the Bible into Latin. His translation is called the Vulgate. He is considered a Doctor of the Church for his efforts in spreading the Word of God.
Wednesday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time II
In the gospel for Wednesday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time, Luke 9:57-62, several individuals express their desire to follow Jesus, but they present conditions or voice concerns. Jesus offers pointed responses to each. This exchange provides insights on the demands and challenges of discipleship relevant for contemporary Catholics.
Thursday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time II
In the gospel for Thursday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time, Jesus tells the disciples to go out and preach the Good News. He knows he must send out laborers to spread his message. He cannot do it alone. And he does not tell them to go alone, but he sends them in pairs.
Friday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time II
In the gospel for Friday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time, Jesus has stern words for those who reject his message. We all have the choice to accept or reject the Good News.
Holy Guardian Angels
Each of us has a guardian angel who watches over us. October 2 is the Memorial of the Guardian Angels.
Saturday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time II
In the gospel for Saturday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time, Luke 10:17-24, narrates the return of the seventy-two disciples from their mission, rejoicing in their successful ministry. This passage provides insights into the nature of discipleship, authority, and the joy of divine revelation.
27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
The readings for the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A show God's care and expectations. The Gospel warns against rejecting God’s messengers and missing out on His kingdom. The second reading encourages trust, prayer, and right thinking. These lessons remind us to stay faithful and bear good fruit in our lives.
Saint Francis of Assisi, Religious
St. Francis of Assisi was a 13th century Italian. He was the son of a wealthy merchant, but he gave away his possessions and started a religious order. October 4 is his feast day.
Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, Priest
Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos Feast Day: October 5 Patronage: Immigrants, the sick, those seeking healingKey Symbol: Crucifix, Redemptorist habit, confessionalTime Period: 1819–1867Location: Germany; Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and New OrleansGood For Lessons On: Kindness, joy, welcoming others, serving the sickScripture: Matthew 25:36; Romans 12:12Why This Saint Matters: He teaches us to serve with joy, gentleness, and hope. […]
Monday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time II
In the gospel for Monday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan. He asks us to reflect on who we see as our neighbors.
St. Faustina Kowalska, Virgin
St. Faustina is known for her devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. Her family had ten children and was very poor. She joined the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy and experienced several visions of Jesus. She is known for her diary and for promoting devotion to Jesus as the King of Mercy which is particularly done by praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet.
Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, Virgin
Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher was a quiet woman with strong faith. She started a group of sisters in Canada to teach young girls, even when she was sick and had little support. Her life was simple, but her work helped many people. She trusted God, cared for others, and believed in the power of teaching. Her story reminds us that small acts of love can make a big difference. Read more about her life, her mission, and how she still inspires teachers, students, and all who serve. Discover how her quiet courage can speak to you today.
Saint Bruno, Priest
Saint Bruno lived a quiet life, far from the noise of the world. He left behind success and comfort to follow a simple path of prayer and silence. He started the Carthusian Order, a group of monks who live in solitude and stillness. Bruno's life may seem small, but his example still speaks today. He reminds us that peace often comes in silence. His feast day is October 6. He is the patron of those who seek prayer and calm. Learn about the man who chose a quiet life and still made a lasting mark on the Church.
Tuesday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time II
In the gospel for Tuesday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time, Jesus visits Martha and Mary in Bethany. There is a great contrast between the way these two sisters respond to his presence. We can reflect if we are more like Martha or Mary.