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.
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
26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A focuses on God’s justice, repentance, and true obedience. The readings show that actions matter more than words. Jesus teaches that those who truly follow God are the ones who do His will, not just those who say the right things. Paul encourages humility and unity, reminding believers to serve others as Jesus did. This Sunday is a call to live with faith and sincerity. It is a reminder that God welcomes those who turn back to Him with honest hearts.
Saint Vincent de Paul, Priest
Saint Vincent de Paul was a priest who gave his life to helping the poor and the sick. He started groups that cared for people in need and taught others to serve. He believed that small acts of love could change lives. He worked with all kinds of people—rich and poor, young and old—to bring comfort and hope. His life reminds us that we can all do something to help. We can visit someone who is lonely, bring food to a neighbor, or listen to someone who is sad. This article tells the story of Saint Vincent’s life and work and shows how we can follow his example.
Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time II
Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 teaches us about humility, unity, and trusting God during trials. Job stays faithful even after losing everything, showing us how to rely on God in hard times. In the Gospel, Jesus reminds His followers not to stop others from doing good just because they are different. He also highlights the importance of childlike humility. These readings help us reflect on our own faith and how we treat others. We are encouraged to support good wherever we see it and to remain humble and faithful through life’s challenges.
Saint Lawrence Ruiz and Companions, Martyrs
Saint Lawrence Ruiz was the first Filipino saint. He was a husband, a father, and a man of faith. He died in Japan for refusing to give up his belief in Jesus. His story is simple but strong. He did not plan to be a saint, but he stayed faithful when life got hard. He reminds us that faith can be lived in daily life and in times of trouble. He shows that anyone, even a regular person, can become a saint by staying true to God. Learn how this quiet man became a strong witness for the Church.
Saint Wenceslaus, Martyr
Saint Wenceslaus was a young ruler who lived in Bohemia during the 900s. He followed Christ, helped the poor, and worked for peace in a divided land. Though his rule was short, people remembered his strong faith and his care for others. He was killed by his own brother, but the Church honors him as a martyr. His feast day is September 28. He is the patron saint of the Czech Republic. His life reminds us to lead with kindness and courage, even when it’s hard. Learn more about this well-known saint and how his faith can still speak to us today.
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.