19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

• First Reading – 1 Kings 19:9A, 11-13A: Elijah hides in a cave. God tells him to stand outside. A strong wind, an earthquake, and a fire pass by, but God is not in them. Then Elijah hears a quiet whisper. He knows God is there.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 85: God proclaims peace and salvation for the reverent. Kindness, truth, justice, and peace unite. The LORD grants benefits and prepares His path with justice.
• Second Reading – Romans 9:1-5: Paul feels deep sadness for his people. They have received many blessings from God. He loves them so much that he would give up everything if it could help them believe in Christ.
• Gospel – Matthew 14:22-33: Jesus goes to pray alone. His disciples take a boat across the lake. A storm comes, and they are afraid. Jesus walks on the water toward them. Peter tries to walk on the water too but starts to sink when he doubts. Jesus saves him. The disciples worship Jesus, knowing He is truly sent by God.

Lectionary Reference: 115

Upcoming dates: August 9, 2026, August 12, 2029, August 8, 2032

The readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A show how God works in quiet ways and in moments of struggle. They remind people to trust in God, even when things seem hard or uncertain.

• God’s Quiet Presence: God was not in the strong wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. This shows that God often speaks in quiet ways, not through loud or dramatic signs.
• Trust in God: Peter walked on water when he trusted Jesus, but he sank when he doubted. Faith means keeping our eyes on God, even when we are afraid.
• God’s Strength in Weakness: Elijah felt tired and afraid, but God still guided him. When people feel weak, God gives them what they need.
• Jesus Saves: Peter cried out when he was sinking, and Jesus reached out to help him. God does not leave people alone in their struggles.
• Faith Over Fear: The disciples were afraid of the storm, but Jesus calmed the wind and waves. Trusting God brings peace even in difficult times.
• Love for Others: Paul loved his people so much that he would give up everything for them to believe in Christ. True love wants others to know God.

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches about faith, trust, and listening to God. These lessons help people grow closer to God in daily life.

Do Not Be Afraid – Reflection and Discussion Questions

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A uses the gospel of Matthew 14:22-33, presenting a valuable lesson on fear and trust in God. The Do Not Be Afraid lesson plan includes a guided meditation on Jesus walking on water during a storm, encouraging participants to reflect on their fears, seek ways to trust in God, and overcome their anxieties practically. The passage’s powerful imagery serves as a catalyst for introspection, fostering courage, resilience, and a deep reliance on the Lord in their lives.

Prayer to the God of Peace and Justice

This prayer draws inspiration from Psalm 85, the responsorial psalm for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A. It highlights God’s desire for peace and justice to encompass all His beloved children. Understanding God’s boundless mercy and heeding His voice, we are compelled to fulfill His will and actively contribute to His Kingdom. As we embrace this calling, may we become instruments of love, compassion, and harmony, working tirelessly to bring forth the realization of God’s vision for a world filled with righteousness and unity.

Fearful Finds Relay

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A gospel urges us to confront fear. The Fearful Finds game involves players reaching into a box of unknown substance for coins, challenging their apprehensions. There will be funny reactions, leading to valuable insights. Reflection questions at the end deepen understanding of fears, fostering courage and resilience in facing uncertainties.

Paul’s Letter to the Romans: Faith, Grace, and Righteousness

The Second Reading for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is Romans 9:1-5. Paul sorrowfully bears witness in Christ’s truth, expressing anguish for his people’s salvation despite their blessings. He longs for their redemption as his own. Paul addresses both Jewish and Gentile Christians in his Letter to the Romans. He aims to familiarize them with his teachings, seeking their support for his mission to Spain. For more resources and background on the epistle, refer here.

Resources for the Gospel of Matthew

On the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, the Gospel reading is from Matthew 14:22-33. After feeding thousands, Jesus withdraws to pray alone. His disciples struggle in a storm while crossing the lake by boat. Jesus walks on water, calming their fears. Peter briefly walks on water but doubts and starts sinking, saved by Jesus. Witnessing this, the disciples worship Jesus, recognizing his divine power. To understand the Gospel of Matthew better, exploring its background and details sheds light on Jesus Christ’s life and ministry as portrayed by Matthew.

In the Storm? Look to Christ

In this video reflection, Bishop Robert Barron discusses the Gospel story of Jesus calming the storm and walking on water from Matthew 14. He emphasizes how this event holds deep meaning for the early Christians and symbolizes the Church’s journey through challenges. Barron highlights the importance of focusing on Christ’s divinity, not worldly figures, for courage and guidance in tumultuous times. Using theological insights, he draws parallels between the disciples’ experience and the Church’s struggles throughout history, emphasizing that trusting in Christ’s power can allow us to navigate even the stormiest waters. The reflection concludes with a reminder to worship and revere the divine presence that sustains the Church.

Hearing God’s Whisper

In this reflection for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Jeff Cavins discusses the instances where God speaks to His people. Through the story of Elijah in the cave and Peter walking on water, Cavins emphasizes that God often speaks in a small whisper or thought, rather than grand gestures. He encourages listeners to listen carefully for God’s gentle voice, and if they sense God’s calling, to take a step of faith like Peter did when he got out of the boat. By trusting God’s whisper and aligning it with Scripture and the teachings of the Church, one may discover the fulfillment of God’s plan for them.

Take Courage!

In this inspiring reflection, Fr. Mike Schmitz emphasizes the importance of courage or fortitude in living out virtues and embracing holiness. Drawing lessons from historical events and biblical characters, he highlights how courage is tested when facing challenges and difficult decisions. Fr. Mike encourages viewers to recognize that true courage is not only about grand gestures but also the daily choices to be virtuous and faithful. To become saints, he suggests embracing the cross, following Jesus, and developing the courage to live out the gospel truth in every aspect of life.

Peter Walked on Water Too!

Fr. Richard Rohr reflects on the Gospel for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, emphasizing that it symbolizes Jesus’ invitation for all of us to step out in faith and trust. Crossing the water represents moving beyond understanding and entering new levels of faith and consciousness. Fr. Rohr encourages the congregation to release fear and trust in Jesus as the absolute source. The homily’s message is that with Christ’s invitation and support, believers can transcend their limitations and trust in God’s guidance.

Sinking Fear

In this video reflection for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Scott Hahn discusses how we can discover God in the midst of life’s challenges and uncertainties. Drawing from the stories of Elijah and the disciples crossing the waters to meet Jesus, he highlights that God reveals Himself in tumultuous moments. We may feel afraid and doubt, but if we have faith and trust in God’s promises, we can find salvation and comfort in His presence, even in the most difficult times.

The Silent Presence of God

In this homily for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the stories of Elijah and Peter to emphasize the importance of discerning God’s presence in the midst of life’s challenges. Just as Elijah, a contemplative, recognizes God in the tiny whispering sound, we should weed out worldly fears and desires to hear God’s voice. When Peter keeps his eyes on Christ amid the storm, he walks on water, demonstrating that by not identifying with our fears, we can overcome life’s trials and find the capacity to follow God’s path.

Christ, the Son of God

In this homily for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Bishop Robert Barron emphasizes the Divinity of Jesus, contrasting him with merely inspiring spiritual teachers. Reflecting on the Gospel passage of Jesus walking on water, he highlights that Jesus’ power transcends worldly fears and gives lasting peace to the soul. By recognizing Jesus as the Son of God and the fulfillment of Israel’s promises, we find the confidence to walk above life’s challenges. Barron reminds us that only Jesus, as both God and man, can truly offer transformation and lasting assurance in the midst of life’s storms.

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds people to trust in God, listen for His voice, and keep faith in difficult times. The readings show that God is present in both quiet moments and life’s storms. Elijah finds God in a gentle whisper. Peter learns that faith keeps him steady when he focuses on Jesus. These stories encourage people to rely on God, even when they feel afraid or uncertain.

Discovering God in Life’s Quiet Moments

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us that God often speaks in quiet ways. In the first reading, Elijah is on Mount Horeb, tired and discouraged. He expects to find God in powerful events like wind, an earthquake, and fire. But God is not in them. Instead, Elijah hears a gentle whisper and knows that God is there.

This story teaches an important lesson. People often look for God in big signs or miracles. But God is also present in simple moments—through a kind word, a peaceful thought, or time spent in prayer. The world is full of noise, and it can be hard to hear God’s voice. But when we take time to be still, we may realize that He is already near.

Elijah’s experience shows that faith is not always about dramatic moments. Sometimes, it is about quiet trust. Even when life is hard, God remains with us. He does not always remove difficulties, but He gives strength and guidance. The “still, small voice” that spoke to Elijah also speaks to us.

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A invites people to pause and listen. Prayer, Scripture, and silence help us become aware of God’s presence. Like Elijah, we may feel lost at times. But if we listen with open hearts, we will find that God has never left us.

Strengthening Faith Amid Storms

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches about faith in difficult times. In the Gospel, Jesus’ disciples are in a boat during a storm. They are afraid when they see Jesus walking on water. Peter asks to walk toward Him but starts to sink when he becomes afraid. Jesus reaches out and saves him. Then the storm stops, and the disciples believe more deeply in Jesus.

This story is about trust. Peter was fine when he focused on Jesus, but when he focused on the storm, he became afraid. The same happens in life. When people focus on problems, they feel overwhelmed. But when they trust God, they find peace.

Storms in life come in different forms—worry, loss, fear, or uncertainty. It is easy to doubt in these moments. But the Gospel reminds people that Jesus is always near. Even when faith is weak, He is ready to help. He does not let people sink.

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A encourages trust in God. Faith does not mean life will be easy, but it means we are not alone. When struggles come, instead of focusing on fear, we can look to God. Like Peter, we can reach out and find His hand ready to lift us up.

Anchored in Faith

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A highlights faith during challenges. Elijah, in the first reading, finds God not in loud events but in a quiet whisper. In the Gospel, Peter walks on water but doubts and begins to sink. Both stories show that faith is about staying focused on God, even in hard times.

Faith is not about avoiding struggles. It is about trusting God through them. Elijah was afraid, but God was with him. Peter doubted, but Jesus saved him. These stories remind people that God does not leave them, even when they feel uncertain.

Sometimes, faith wavers, just like Peter’s. Fear and doubt can creep in. But God is always present, offering help and strength. The key is to keep looking toward Him. Faith does not mean never struggling—it means trusting God even in the struggle.

The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A calls people to anchor their faith in God. Life has storms, but faith keeps people steady. By trusting in God, they find the strength to move forward, knowing He will always be there.

Faith is not about having all the answers or never feeling doubt. It is about trusting God even when things seem unclear. The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches that God is always near, whether in silence or in struggles. By listening to Him and keeping faith, people find strength and peace.

Prayer

Lord, help me to trust You in all things. When life feels uncertain, remind me that You are near. Teach me to listen for Your voice in quiet moments and to hold onto faith during struggles. Strengthen me when I feel weak and guide me closer to You each day. Amen.

• When have you felt God’s presence in a quiet moment?
• What distractions make it hard for you to listen to God?
• Have you ever been afraid to trust God? Why?
• How do you handle doubts in your faith?
• What storms in life have tested your trust in God?
• How do you see God working in difficult times?
• What helps you focus on Jesus when you feel overwhelmed?
• How can you encourage someone who is struggling with faith?
• What lessons can you learn from Peter’s experience on the water?
• How can prayer help you grow in trust and faith?

• A Shelter in the Time of Storm by Michael Joncas
• All the Ends of the Earth by Bob Dufford
• At the Name of Jesus by Christopher Walker & Caroline Maria Noel
• Be Not Afraid by the St. Louis Jesuits
• Canticle of the Sun by Marty Haugen
• Do Not Be Afraid by Bernadette Farrell
• Eternal Father Strong to Save by John Bacchus Dykes, Robert N. Spencer & William Whiting
• God of Wonders by Steve Hindalong & Marc Byrd
• How He Loves by John Mark McMillan
• I Have Decided to Follow Jesus by Jadon Lavik
• I Sing the Mighty Power of God by Isaac Watts, Robert E. Kreutz, William H. Monk & Randall Debruyn
• I Will Follow by Chris Tomlin
• Lord, Let Us See Your Kindness by Scott Soper
• Mighty to Save by Laura Story
• Oceans by Hillsong United
• Our God Saves by Paul Baloche
• Sacred Silence by Tom Booth
• Save Us O Lord by Bob Dufford
• Sing Out, Earth and Skies by Marty Haugen
• Stand by Me by Tom Kendzia
• We Walk by Faith by Marty Haugen

What date is the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

The next date is Sunday August 9, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

What are the Mass readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

The Mass readings for Sunday August 9, 2026 are:
First Reading – 1 Kings 19:9A, 11-13A: God’s Gentle Whisper
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 85: God’s Proclamation of Peace
Second Reading – Romans 9:1-5: Sorrow for His People
Gospel – Matthew 14:22-33: Jesus Walks on Water

What does Elijah’s experience on Mount Horeb teach us?

Elijah expected to find God in strong forces like wind, an earthquake, and fire. But God was in a gentle whisper. This teaches that God often speaks in quiet ways, not through loud or dramatic signs.

Why was Elijah hiding in the first reading?

Elijah was afraid and discouraged because people had turned against him. He went to Mount Horeb to seek God’s help and guidance.

What does the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teach about listening to God?

The readings show that God does not always speak in obvious ways. Sometimes, He speaks through quiet moments, prayer, or a sense of peace. People need to take time to listen.

Why did Jesus walk on water?

Jesus walked on water to show His power over nature and to strengthen the faith of His disciples. It was also a lesson in trust, especially for Peter.

What lesson do we learn from Peter trying to walk on water?

Peter was able to walk on water when he trusted Jesus. But when he became afraid and doubted, he started to sink. This teaches that faith keeps us steady, but fear and doubt can pull us down.

What does the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teach about fear?

The disciples were afraid during the storm, and Peter was afraid when he walked on water. Fear can make it hard to trust God, but faith helps people overcome their fears.

Why did Peter start to sink?

Peter lost focus on Jesus and started paying attention to the wind and waves. This made him afraid, and he began to sink.

How does the first reading connect to the Gospel?

Both readings show that God works in ways people do not always expect. Elijah found God in a whisper, not in powerful events. Peter learned that trusting Jesus helped him do what seemed impossible.

What does the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teach about faith?

Faith means trusting God even when things are difficult. It does not mean life will always be easy, but it means God is always near and ready to help.

How can I apply these readings to my life?

You can make time for quiet prayer to listen for God, like Elijah. You can also trust God in hard times, like Peter needed to do. Faith grows stronger when people focus on God instead of their fears.

Why did the disciples worship Jesus after the storm?

They saw His power and realized more deeply who He was. They understood that He was sent by God and that He had control over nature.

What does the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teach about trusting God in hard times?

Life can feel like a storm, full of problems and fears. These readings remind people to keep their eyes on God. He is always near, even when things seem difficult.