• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Young Catholics

Youth Ministry, Vacation Bible School (VBS), and Family Resources

  • Resources by Date
  • Resources by Type
  • Resources by Theme
  • Resources by Topic
  • Free Graphics
  • Catholic Gifts
  • Email

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A (2023)

Filed Under: Feasts Holy Days and Seasons

Sunday, September 3, 2023

The readings for the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year A focus on our natural longing for God. In the first reading (Jeremiah 20:7-9) Jeremiah realizes he cannot escape his burning desire for God. The psalm (Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9) says ” My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.” The second reading (Romans 12:1-2) tells us that we must allow ourselves to be transformed. And in the gospel (Matthew 16:21-27) Jesus explains that following him means making sacrifices.

Possible themes for this weekend’s readings are sacrificial love, longing for God, prayer, and water. Here are some ideas:

Water Transfer Team Building Game
Water Transfer is a wet silly game for VBS or youth ministry. It also builds team spirit because group members need to work together to determine the best strategy to move their water.  It would work well for middle school Vacation Bible School, as a camp game, or as a youth group icebreaker.
Wild Wet Wiffle Ball
Wild Wet Wiffle Ball is a fun summer option for a youth group game. It is just like regular wiffle ball, only wetter.
Drip Drip Drop Game for Youth Ministry
This is a water game for teenagers which can be played indoors if you don't mind wiping up a few puddles at the end. It is basically Duck Duck Goose with water.
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
What Is My Cross? Reflection and Small Group Discussion Questions
This youth ministry reflection on Matthew 16:21-27 helps teens understand what it means to "take up your cross" and gives them some concrete ideas of how they can do this. This reflection would work well in conjunction with Stations of the Cross if time allows.
My Soul Is Thirsting for You, O Lord My God
My Soul Is Thirsting for You, O Lord My God - Psalm 63 (Social media graphic)
Why Do We Consume But Are Not Satisfied?
We live in a world where we are constantly consuming. We invest time, energy, and money on our gadgets, fancy food and drink, clothes, home decor, etc. We chase wealth, fame, and the admiration or notice of others. So why do so many people seem dissatisfied? The teachings of the Catholic Church can explain.
Christ, Source of Living Water
"Let us ask for the grace to cultivate a desire for Christ, source of living water, the only one who can satisfy the thirst for life and love which we bear in our hearts." Pope Francis

Tagged: Events

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Rate This




Primary Sidebar

St. Agnes of Rome
Thursday, January 21
St. Agnes of Rome was born in the year 291. Many eligible young men sought to marry her. But she saw herself as the spouse of Jesus. When she continued to resist, she was condemned to death and was martyred at the age of 13.
Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children
Friday, January 22
January 22 is the anniversary of the Roe vs Wade decision and is designated as the "Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children". It is a day of prayer and penance.
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year B (2021)
Sunday, January 24
The readings for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year B invite us to be transformed by the call of Jesus. So possible themes for this Sunday are evangelization, vocations, and discipleship.
The Conversion of St. Paul
Monday, January 25
January 25 is the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul.  St. Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus converted him from a persecutor of Christians to a fully committed follower of Jesus.
Sts. Timothy and Titus
Tuesday, January 26
January 26 is the feast day of Sts. Timothy and Titus.  St. Timothy is the patron saint of stomach ailments. St. Titus is the patron saint of the United States Army Chaplain Corps.
Yes No Game (Youth Group Game)
The Yes No game is a fun activity for your youth group or youth ministry meeting. It can be tied in with teaching by reminding us that we need to say "Yes" to God. It also works well with a meeting focused on our Blessed Mother, whose  "Fiat" ("let it be done") in answer to the Angel Gabriel at the Annunciation was an affirmation in her complete trust in the Lord.
Getting to Know You Bingo (Youth Group or VBS Game)
Getting to Know You Bingo works well as a VBS game or a youth group game. This set of 20 bingo cards can be used with youth group or Vacation Bible School.
Printable Ten Commandments Cryptogram
Today's activity from Young Catholics is a printable puzzle of the Ten Commandments. A key is also provided, in case you are not an expert in cryptography. :-)
St. Patrick’s Breastplate
St. Patrick's Breastplate is a prayer for protection and guidance. Christ is always with us providing us strength and wisdom.
Make an Origami Dove
Pentecost is right around the corner. Since the dove is often used as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, making origami doves can be a fun craft for kids on this holy day.

Popular

Discovery

© 2021 · Young Catholics