On the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, we learn about the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the importance of using our gifts to serve God’s kingdom. Jesus tells a story of a master who entrusted his servants with money (talents). Two servants doubled their talents through wise investments, while the third servant hid his in fear. The master rewarded the faithful servants and punished the one who did nothing. Jesus also speaks of future signs of His coming, warning about false messiahs, wars, and disasters. He assures His followers of His return with power and glory, urging them to stay watchful. Despite persecution, Jesus promises protection and encourages endurance for eternal life.
See more resources for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time for youth ministers, catechists, teachers, and parents below. See how to determine the correct year.
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C:
Mass Readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
See resources, homilies, and more for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A readings here.
- First Reading – Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31: A worthy wife is a priceless treasure, bringing goodness always. She works diligently, helps the needy, and her true value lies in her reverence for the LORD. Her deeds earn her praise.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 128: Blessings await those who respect the LORD and follow His paths. Their work thrives, family flourishes like a fruitful vine and olive plants, and they enjoy lasting prosperity.
- Second Reading – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6: The day of the Lord will arrive unexpectedly like a thief at night. Despite sudden disasters, those who live in light, staying alert and sober, will not be overtaken.
- Gospel – Matthew 25:14-30: Jesus tells a parable about a master who entrusts his servants with different amounts of money (talents) before going on a journey. Two of the servants invest and double their talents, while the third servant buries his out of fear. When the master returns, he rewards the faithful servants but punishes the one who did nothing with what was given. This parable teaches the importance of using our God-given abilities and resources wisely for His kingdom.
Mass Readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
See resources, homilies, and more for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B readings here.
- First Reading – Daniel 12:1-3: During a time of extreme distress, the Archangel Michael will arise. Many will awake from sleep, with the wise shining brightly and justice leaders likened to everlasting stars.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 16: The Lord is my portion and provides stability. I am joyful and confident, knowing I won’t be abandoned. The Lord guides me to life, overflowing joy, and eternal delight.
- Second Reading – Hebrews 10:11-14, 18: Priests repeatedly offer sacrifices, yet sins persist. But one offered a single, perfect sacrifice for all sins and sat beside God, bringing eternal perfection to the consecrated through forgiveness.
- Gospel – Mark 13:24-32: Jesus describes the future signs of His coming, stating that the sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall. He assures His disciples that He will return with great power and glory. Jesus emphasizes that no one knows the exact time of His return, not even the angels, but only the Father. Therefore, His followers must be alert and watchful for His coming.
Mass Readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
See resources, homilies, and more for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C readings here.
- First Reading – Malachi 3:19-20A: The imminent day will blaze, reducing the proud and wicked to ashes. However, for those respecting the LORD’s name, the healing sun of justice will rise.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 98: With instruments and joy, we praise the LORD. Let nature join in this jubilation. For the LORD arrives to govern the earth with fairness and justice for all peoples.
- Second Reading – 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12: We set an example of hard work and self-reliance for you to follow. If one isn’t willing to work, they shouldn’t eat. We encourage everyone to work quietly and mind their own business.
- Gospel – Luke 21:5-19: Jesus speaks of the temple’s destruction and warns His disciples about false messiahs, wars, and natural disasters, which are signs of the end times. He assures them that they will face persecution but encourages them to stand firm, as their testimony will bear witness to Him. Jesus promises that not a hair on their heads will perish, and by their endurance, they will gain their lives.
More About Lectionary Cycles
Learn more about the difference between a Bible and a Lectionary, how the Lectionary is arranged, and translations of the Bible used at Mass for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time.
How to Determine the Liturgical Year for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
The liturgical cycle is a three-year sequence of A, B, and C.
- 2024 is Year B
- 2025 is Year C
- 2026 is Year A
- 2027 is Year B
- 2028 is Year C
- 2029 is Year A
- 2030 is Year B
- 2031 is Year C
- … and so on
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