6th Sunday of Easter Year A

• First Reading – Acts 8:5-8, 14-17: Philip goes to Samaria and preaches the word of God to the people, performing many miraculous signs and healings, which resulted in many people believing and being baptized. Peter and John arrive in Samaria and prayed for the new believers, laying their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 66: A psalm of praise to God, encouraging all people to shout joyfully, sing praises, and proclaim His glorious deeds. The psalmist recounts God’s great works, including changing the sea into dry land and ruling by His might forever, and invites all who fear God to declare His goodness.
• Second Reading – 1 Peter 3:15-18: Peter instructs believers to always be ready to give a defense of their faith with gentleness and respect, even in the face of persecution. He then reminds them of the example of Christ, who suffered and died for our sins, but was raised to life by the power of God.
• Gospel – John 14:15-21: Jesus promises his disciples that if they love Him, they will keep His commandments, and He will ask the Father to send them the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, to be with them forever. He also promises that He will come to them and reveal Himself to them, and whoever loves Him and keeps His word will be loved by the Father, and they will dwell with Him.

Lectionary Reference: 55

Upcoming dates: May 10, 2026, May 6, 2029, May 2, 2032

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A focuses on faith, love, and the Holy Spirit. The readings show how God strengthens His people and stays with them always.

• Preaching and conversion: Philip shares the message of Jesus in Samaria, and many people believe. The Gospel reminds us that love for Jesus leads to action and obedience.
• The gift of the Holy Spirit: Peter and John pray for the new believers, and they receive the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit to those who love Him.
• Faith in suffering: Peter encourages Christians to stay strong when facing hardship. Jesus suffered for others, and His followers are called to remain faithful.
• Obedience to Christ: Jesus says that loving Him means keeping His commandments. Faith is not just words but actions that show love and commitment.
• God’s constant presence: Jesus promises that He will not leave His followers alone. The Holy Spirit is given to guide and help them.
• Love and relationship with God: Jesus says that those who love Him will be loved by the Father. This shows that faith is not just belief but a close relationship with God.

The readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A remind us that God is always with His people. Faith, love, and the Holy Spirit guide Christians in their daily lives.

I Am With You Lesson Plan

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A reminds us that Jesus does not leave us alone. He promises the Holy Spirit, who will always be with us. The Spirit teaches, guides, and helps us follow Jesus. When we feel lost or unsure, the Holy Spirit gives us wisdom and strength. This gift from God is a reminder of His love and care for us.

The Holy Spirit is not just around us but lives within us. Through Baptism, we receive the Spirit, who helps us make good choices and grow in faith. The Spirit encourages us to pray, love others, and trust in God. The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A calls us to be more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives. When we listen and pay attention, we can see how the Spirit leads us closer to Jesus every day.

The Holy Spirit Background Material

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A teaches that the Holy Spirit is always at work in the world and in the Church. From creation to Pentecost and beyond, the Spirit gives life, strength, and guidance. He helps people grow in faith and love. He teaches that every person has value and should be treated with respect.

The Holy Spirit continues to lead the Church today. He gives wisdom to believers and courage to live as followers of Jesus. He helps the Church teach truth and defend human dignity. The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A calls us to listen to the Spirit, trust in His guidance, and live with love and kindness.

Patient Trust Prayer of Teilhard de Chardin

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A shows that God does not leave us alone. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, who guides and helps us. Waiting for answers from God can be hard, especially when making big decisions. Trusting in His timing takes patience, but He is always leading us.

The Holy Spirit works in us slowly, helping us grow in faith and understanding. We may feel uncertain, but God’s plan unfolds in His time. The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A reminds us to rely on the Holy Spirit and believe that God is with us, even when the path is unclear.

What Are the Signs of the Holy Spirit?

Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A focuses on the Holy Spirit’s work in the Church and in believers. He explains that the Holy Spirit is the soul of the Church, giving it life and direction. The readings show five signs of the Holy Spirit: bold preaching, the defeat of evil, miracles, joy, and love. These signs reveal God’s presence and power.

Bishop Barron reminds us that true faith is not silent. The Holy Spirit moves people to speak about Jesus, seek truth, and love others. Joy is a key sign of the Holy Spirit, as is the ability to love selflessly. He encourages us to stay open to the Spirit’s guidance. The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A teaches that when we follow the Holy Spirit, we bring Christ’s love to the world.

Do You Love Jesus?

Jeff Cavins’ commentary for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A focuses on Jesus’ words, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” He explains that love for Jesus is shown through obedience. Keeping His commandments is not just about following rules but about trusting and relying on Him. Jesus does not leave His followers alone—He sends the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen them. The Holy Spirit is like the fletching on an arrow, helping believers stay on the right path toward Jesus.

In the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A, Jeff Cavins reminds us that Jesus will not leave us as orphans. He gives the Holy Spirit as a helper and source of strength. Those who seek to know Jesus more deeply must obey His words. When they do, Jesus reveals Himself to them in their daily lives. Obedience is the key to a closer relationship with Him.

Alive in the Spirit

Scott Hahn’s commentary for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A explains that Jesus does not leave His followers alone. He promises to send the Holy Spirit, who will keep them united with Him and the Father. The first reading shows this promise being fulfilled when Peter and John lay hands on the newly baptized in Samaria. This moment reflects the Sacrament of Confirmation, where believers receive the Holy Spirit and are strengthened in faith.

Scott Hahn reminds us that the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A calls us to remain in God’s grace by loving Christ and keeping His commandments. The Holy Spirit helps us bear witness to our faith, even when the world rejects it. Jesus suffered and died to bring us to God, and through His resurrection, He gives us hope. Because He lives, we also will live with Him forever.

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A reminds us of the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Jesus promises that He will not leave His followers alone. The Holy Spirit is our guide, our strength, and our helper. The readings also encourage us to trust in God, share our faith, and live in obedience to His teachings. These reflections help us think about how we experience the Holy Spirit and how we can grow in faith.

Finding Comfort and Strength

In the Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A, Jesus promises His disciples that they will not be left alone. He tells them that He will ask the Father to send the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, who will be with them forever. This is a great promise of comfort and strength for His followers.

As Catholics, we believe that the Holy Spirit is always with us. The Holy Spirit gives us guidance, wisdom, and courage. Through Baptism and Confirmation, we receive the Holy Spirit and become part of the Church. This means we are never truly alone, even in difficult times.

Jesus also says that He will not leave His followers as orphans. This is a reminder that God is always near. Even when we feel abandoned, He is with us. The Holy Spirit connects us to God and to one another.

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A encourages us to trust in the presence of the Holy Spirit. When we pray, when we face challenges, and when we try to follow Jesus, the Holy Spirit gives us strength. We are not alone, and God’s love is always with us.

We Are Not Evangelizing Alone

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A reminds us that sharing our faith is not something we do by ourselves. In the first reading, Philip preaches in Samaria, and many people believe. Later, Peter and John come to pray for them, and they receive the Holy Spirit. This shows that the Holy Spirit is active in spreading the faith.

Jesus tells His disciples that the Holy Spirit will teach them and remind them of everything He has said. This is important for all who share the Gospel. We do not have to rely only on our own knowledge or strength. The Holy Spirit helps us speak and act in a way that brings others closer to God.

The early Christians trusted in the Holy Spirit, and amazing things happened. People heard the message of Jesus, believed, and were baptized. The Holy Spirit worked through the apostles and gave them courage. Even in difficult times, they continued to share the Good News.

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A reminds us that we, too, are called to share our faith. We do not have to be afraid, because the Holy Spirit is with us. When we trust in God’s guidance, we can help others know His love.

Loving God Through Obedience

Jesus says in the Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A that those who love Him will keep His commandments. Love is not just words or feelings. It is shown through actions and choices.

Keeping Jesus’ commandments means following His teachings in everyday life. It means loving others, forgiving, and trusting in God. It is not always easy, but the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to do what is right.

In the second reading, Peter encourages believers to be ready to explain their faith. He reminds them to do this with gentleness and respect. This is another way of showing love for God—by sharing the truth with kindness.

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A teaches that real love for Jesus is shown through obedience. When we follow His ways, we grow closer to Him. The Holy Spirit helps us live in a way that reflects God’s love to the world.

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year A calls us to trust in God’s presence and live out our faith with love and obedience. The Holy Spirit is always with us, giving us strength and guidance. When we follow Jesus’ teachings and share His message with others, we grow closer to Him. May we always be open to the Holy Spirit and live as faithful disciples of Christ.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help me to trust in Your presence and follow Your ways. Give me the courage to share my faith with others and the wisdom to live in obedience to You. Strengthen my love for You each day. Amen.

• How have you experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life?
• What helps you find comfort and strength in your faith?
• How can you share your faith with others in everyday life?
• What does it mean to you to be guided by the Holy Spirit?
• How can you grow in trust that God is always with you?
• What are some ways you can show love for Jesus through obedience?
• How do you respond when faith becomes challenging?
• What role does prayer play in deepening your relationship with the Holy Spirit?
• How can you help others feel God’s presence in their lives?
• What message from the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A speaks to you the most?

The music selections for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A focus on themes of the Holy Spirit, love, and the call to follow Jesus. Some songs celebrate the promise that Jesus will not leave us alone but will send the Holy Spirit to guide us. Others emphasize love as the foundation of faith, reminding us that keeping Jesus’ commandments is a sign of love for Him. There are also hymns of praise, lifting voices in gratitude for God’s presence and care. Some selections reflect the joy of Easter and the hope that comes from knowing Christ is alive. These songs help the congregation pray, reflect, and celebrate the message of this Sunday’s readings.

• All Creatures of Our God and King by David Crowder Band
• Alleluia! Sing to Jesus by Rowland H. Pritchard, William C. Dix, Robert E. Kreutz & Randall Debruyn
• Canticle of the Turning by Rory Cooney
• Christ in Me Arise by Trevor Thomson
• Christ, the Lord, Is Risen Again
• Come, Holy Ghost by Louis Lambillotte
• Hail the Day That Sees Him Rise
• Holy (Jesus You Are) by Matt Redman
• Holy Is the Lord by Chris Tomlin
• How Great Is Our God by Chris Tomlin
• I Give You a New Commandment by Bob Hurd
• Let All the Earth by Ken Canedo
• Love Came Down by Kari Jobe
• Love Divine, All Loves Excelling by Rowland H. Pritchard & Charles Wesley
• Love Goes On by Bernadette Farrell 
• O Breathe On Me, O Breath of God by Edwin Hatch
• One Spirit, One Church by Kevin Keil & Maryanne Quinlivan
• Open Up the Heavens by Vertical Worship
• Peace by Gregory Norbet & Weston Priory
• Psalm 66: Let All the Earth Cry Out by Rory Cooney

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections and find what works best for their communities. Consider how these songs support the themes of the readings and invite people into deeper prayer. Share your own recommendations in the comments and help others find meaningful music for worship.

What date is the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A?

The next date is Sunday May 10, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
6th Sunday of Easter Year B
6th Sunday of Easter Year C

What are the Mass readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A?

The Mass readings for Sunday May 10, 2026 are:
First Reading – Acts 8:5-8, 14-17: The Power of the Holy Spirit in Samaria
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 66: Shout for Joy
Second Reading – 1 Peter 3:15-18: The Example of Christ’s Suffering
Gospel – John 14:15-21: The Promise of the Holy Spirit

What does Jesus mean when he says He will not leave us as orphans?

Jesus promises that He will not abandon His followers. He sends the Holy Spirit to be with them always, guiding and strengthening them.

Who is the Holy Spirit, and what does He do?

The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God sent by Jesus and the Father. He helps believers understand the faith, make good choices, and stay close to God.

Why did Peter and John go to Samaria in the first reading?

Philip preached in Samaria, and many people believed and were baptized. Peter and John came to pray for them so they could receive the Holy Spirit.

What does the first reading teach about the Holy Spirit?

The Holy Spirit is given to those who believe in Jesus. This shows that faith and baptism are just the beginning, and the Holy Spirit strengthens and completes the journey.

Why does Jesus connect love and obedience in the Gospel?

Jesus teaches that true love for Him is shown by following His commandments. Obedience is a sign of trust and faith in Him.

How does the second reading relate to suffering?

Peter encourages believers to stay faithful even when they suffer. He reminds them that Jesus also suffered and was raised to life by God.

What is the message of the Psalm for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A?

The Psalm celebrates God’s power and faithfulness. It reminds believers that God has saved His people in the past and will continue to help them.

How does the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A help us in daily life?

It reminds us that we are never alone because the Holy Spirit is with us. It also encourages us to love Jesus by following His teachings.

Why does the world have trouble accepting the Holy Spirit?

Jesus says that the world does not recognize the Holy Spirit because it does not know Him. People who do not believe in God may not understand His presence.

How can we recognize the Holy Spirit in our lives?

The Holy Spirit gives us peace, strength, and guidance. When we feel encouraged to do good, pray, or trust in God, the Holy Spirit is working in us.

What does the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A teach about sharing our faith?

It shows that the Holy Spirit helps us speak about Jesus with confidence. Like Philip in the first reading, we are called to share the Gospel with others.

Why is hope important in the second reading?

Peter reminds believers that Jesus suffered but was raised to life. This gives hope that God’s promises are true and that He is always with His people.

How can we follow Jesus’ commandments?

We can follow Jesus by loving God and others, forgiving, being honest, and living with kindness. The Holy Spirit helps us make good choices.

What does the 6th Sunday of Easter Year A tell us about God’s love?

It shows that God never leaves His people alone. He gives the Holy Spirit to guide them, and He promises to be with them always.