5th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A (2023)

The readings for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time focus on evangelization and service. The first reading (Isaiah 58:7-10) tells us that when we care for those in need, the darkness in our lives will turn to light. The psalm (Psalm 112:4-5, 6-7, 8-9) reminds us “The just man is a light in darkness to the upright. ” The second reading (1 Corinthians 2:1-5) helps us remember that we do not rely on our own wisdom when we speak and act, but on God. And the gospel (Matthew 5:13-16) is a reminder that we should boldly spread the Light of Christ throughout the world.

So some themes to focus on are evangelization, works of mercy, and justice. Here are some specific helps.

Fox and Chickens Tag (Game for Youth Ministry or VBS)

This is a variation on tag which the person who is it tries to tag the last person in line. The people at the front of the line try to protect the last person. This game could be used with a theme of how God protects us and loves us even better than a mother hen protects her chicks. Or it could be used for a social justice theme about protecting the marginalized.

All Together Now: A Lesson Plan on Racism

Racism can be a difficult topic to discuss with teens. It is popular to think that we are "color blind". But the fact is that the playing field is not level and that minorities do not have the same advantages as the majority.  This lesson plan introduces the topic of institutional racism.

People Sort Activity

This is an activity which can be used as an icebreaker or opening activity for a youth group meeting focused on human dignity, immigration, or institutional racism. Use the debrief time to have an honest discussion about why we group people by race rather than other characteristics. 

Do One of the Spiritual Works of Mercy

The Spiritual Works of Mercy are a way for us to accompany and encourage each other on our faith journey.  The Spiritual Works of Mercy are acts of charity through which we show our love for each other by . #Lent #WorksOfMercy #LoveOneAnother

Do One of the Corporal Works of Mercy

The gospels show us that Jesus reached out to those in need. His life is a model for how we should interact with others. One way to do this is through the Corporal Works of Mercy. Consider looking at these and doing one with the Catholic youth in your life. #service #charity #mercy #LoveOneAnother

Give Something You Like to Charity

Giving away clothes or toys to a charity is a good way to practice almsgiving. But just giving away something you don't want or use anymore is more like an act of closet cleaning than an act of sacrifice. Consider including at least one item you use frequently and enjoy.

Melt My Icy Heart Game (for Youth Ministry)

This is a fun game to go with a meeting focused on stubbornness or belief. Or just for fun. Your teens will love it. Each team must try to melt a giant ice cube.

Not in My Basket! (Game for VBS or Youth Ministry)

This is an active game where youth try to get their own balls in their own basket while keeping the other team's balls out. This can be a good game to play for the topics of racism and immigration. If you use the option to change the rules mid-game, this makes a good tie in with a lesson on authority or Magisterium.

Do’s and Don’ts of Evangelization

This very funny video from Life Teen shows teenagers how (or how not) to introduce their friends to Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. It's a great resource for getting a youth ministry group talking about evangelization.

Privilege Walk for Teens

A Privilege Walk is an exercise where participants consider how circumstances in their lives can be benefits or detriments. These are circumstances which are beyond their control, largely related to the families they were born into and the resources they have.

The Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Life Teen Summit Reflection

In this video from Life Teen, Joel Stepanek helps us understand the readings for the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year A. What defines a fan of a team? What does it mean to be a Christian?

You Are the Light of the World (Video)

This video from Holy Heroes tells us that we must let the light of Christ shine through us, which is the gospel for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year A. A coloring sheet and Mass quiz are also available for each week. Use these to prepare for Sunday Mass at home or for Children's Liturgy of the Word.

You Are the Light of the World

You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house.