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15th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A (2023)

Filed Under: Feasts Holy Days and Seasons

Sunday, July 23, 2023

The readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time tell of how our relationship with God helps us grow, which in turn allows our lives to bear fruit. The first reading (Isaiah 55:10-11) explains that God’s Word is like the rain, which falls on the earth and makes it fertile. The psalm (Psalm 65:10, 11, 12-13, 14) tells us that God prepares the world for a bountiful harvest. The second reading (Romans 8:18-23) reminds us that a new creation is going to emerge. And in the gospel (Matthew 13:1-23 or 13:1-9) Jesus tells the parable of the sower and explains that our hearts must be ready to receive the Word of God.

So discipleship, scripture, and evangelization are some possible themes for this week. Here are some ideas:

Start a Prayer Journal
Lent is a time when we explore ways to deepen our prayer lives. A prayer journal is a good way to stay focused during prayer. I find this an especially helpful practice for teens who are trying to develop a deeper prayer life. But it is appropriate for all ages. #prayer
Fruit Salad Game
This is an easy no-prep circle game for youth ministry, Vacation Bible School (VBS), church camp, or religious ed. It could be used for a lesson on the Fruits of the Spirit or to accompany discussion about "bearing good fruit".
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.
Some Seed Fell on Rich Ground
"But some seed fell on rich soil, and produced fruit, a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold. Whoever has ears ought to hear.” - Matthew 13:8 (Social media graphic)
Follow the Holy Father on Twitter
Did you know Pope Francis tweets almost every day on Twitter? Follow him for daily inspiration and then share his messages with others on your own social media outlets.
Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina means "divine reading". It is a prayer practice which trusts that God speaks to us through scripture. This is a practice I started doing regularly a few years ago.

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Second Sunday of Lent – Year B (2021)
Sunday, February 28
The readings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent make us think of God's revelation of himself to us and how we recognize him. Some possible themes for this weekend are prayer, listening to Jesus, and taking time away to encounter Jesus
3rd Sunday of Lent – Year B (2021)
Sunday, March 7
The readings for the 3rd Sunday of Lent for Year B help us understand that we must follow God's commandments and truly live them in our hearts to find life. Some possible themes for this weekend are the Ten Commandments, morality, and Church authority.
4th Sunday of Lent – Year B (2021)
Sunday, March 14
The readings for the 4th Sunday of Lent for Year B focus on God's faithfulness in drawing us closer to him. Discussions for these readings could include topics such as God's love for us, light and darkness, and our longing for God. Here are some ideas.
St. Patrick
Wednesday, March 17
March 17 is the Feast of St. Patrick.  St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, engineers, and paralegals.
St. Joseph, Husband of Mary
Friday, March 19
March 19 is the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Joseph was a just and holy man, chosen by God to be the foster father of Jesus. St. Joseph is the patron saint of fathers, carpenters, immigrants, happy death, the Catholic Church, and more.
Anyone who turns away from the Cross, turns away from the Resurrection. - Pope Francis
Anyone who turns away from the Cross, turns away from the Resurrection.
"Anyone who turns away from the Cross, turns away from the Resurrection." – Pope Francis
Listen to Him
Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them.

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