23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A (2023)

The readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year A focus on a conversion of heart. In the first reading (Ezekiel 33:7-9) we are warned to turn away from wickedness. The psalm (Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9) says “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” The second reading (Romans 13:8-10) encourages us to go beyond merely following the letter of the law and to truly love. And in the gospel (Matthew 18:15-20) Jesus teaches about converting from sin and coming to reconciliation.

Possible themes for this weekend’s readings are conversion of heart, the sacrament of Reconciliation (confession), or overcoming hatred. Here are some ideas:

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

Washed Away Prayer Service

This prayer service makes a nice accompaniment to the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  It could also be used for a youth ministry meeting about forgiveness or baptism. #YouthMinistry #forgiven

How to Pray for Somebody Who Has Hurt You

Today for Lent, why not pray for someone who has hurt you? This is especially powerful if you are still harboring some resentment. Pray from your heart, but if you are having trouble getting started, try this prayer.

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.

If Today You Hear His Voice, Harden Not Your Hearts

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. - Psalm 95 (Social media graphic)

Together We’re Better Reflection and Discussion Questions

This reflection focuses on Matthew 18:15-20. Jesus tells us to point out our friends' faults. Is that really a good idea? Are we really supposed to point out each other's sins?

Psychiatrist Icebreaker Game

In this game, the group has a problem. The psychiatrist has to figure out what it is. This icebreaker requires no prep or materials. It works well for six or more people.

Tangled Web Game

This game (sometimes called "spider web") uses a ball of string to create a tangled mess. It is often used as an icebreaker. It can also be used as an example of how sin can create a tangled mess in our lives.

Is It OK to Judge Someone? (Video)

Is it OK to say that a person's behavior is wrong? Or is that judgmental? Fr. Mike Schmitz explains in this video. Jesus tells us not to judge a person's heart, but he does command us to judge the actions of others. So we should not condemn someone's heart, but we can discern that actions are wrong.