2nd Sunday in Advent – Year B (2023)

The readings for the Second Sunday in Advent for Year B tell us of John the Baptist and his call to repentance. The first reading (Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11) foretells the coming of John the Baptist. The psalm (Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19) reminds us that the Lord is kind and just. The second reading (2 Peter 3:8-14) encourages us to grow in holiness. And in the gospel (Mark 1:1-8) John the Baptist is baptizing people in preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ.

Some possible topics for this weekend are baptism, reconciliation, or the sacraments in general. Here are some ideas:

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

Sacrament Scavenger Hunt for Youth Ministry or VBS

This scavenger hunt introduces some of the symbols and concepts of the sacraments in a fun way. Hide various sacrament related items around your meeting space or grounds. Here is a list and some tips. Some of the items are directly related to sacraments. Others are more "fun" to start up a conversation. Use whatever you feel is best for your group and meeting. These are just ideas.

Have a Prayer Service While Hanging a Wreath

Put out a wreath today for your Advent activity. Wreaths are commonly used during Advent and at Christmas, so tie this holiday tradition in with its spiritual meaning.  Hang a wreath on your front door or elsewhere in your house. Use the this prayer service to make the wreath serve as a reminder of our salvation.

Water Drop Race (Youth Ministry or VBS Game)

This is another indoor water game. It is not messy at all! This works well with any age group also. It would go well with any topic related to water, such as baptism, or a community theme, since the water drop sticks together.

Nativity of St. John the Baptist

The Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist celebrates his birth. St. John the Baptist was the cousin of Jesus and came to prepare the world for the coming of the Messiah.

Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Consider going to reconciliation as a family or with youth group or youth ministry. And then do something afterwards to celebrate this beautiful gift of grace from our Lord. Go out for pizza together or something similar. 

The Baptism of the Lord

The feast of the Baptism of the Lord marks the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of ordinary time. On this day we remember when John the Baptist baptized Jesus Christ in the Jordan river. This is a good day to think about our own baptism. What does it mean to be baptized? What impact does this have on my daily life? Find ideas for youth ministry, religious education, classrooms, and your home.

What Are You Waiting For? Reflection and Discussion Questions

This discussion and set of reflection questions helps youth consider John the Baptist's message that "One mightier than I is coming after me." Some things are worth waiting for.

Baptized with the Holy Spirit

One mightier than I is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.

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.

Baptism Word Search Puzzle

This word search puzzle includes words typically associated with baptism. It is suitable for use with your Children's Liturgy of the Word, Vacation Bible School (VBS), or Youth Ministry.

Put Up the Tree and Do a Christmas Tree Blessing

Doing a Christmas tree blessing helps us focus again on the true meaning of this busy season, which is especially important as we draw nearer to Christmas and are worrying about things like purchasing few more gifts or getting ready for guests.

One Mightier than I Is Coming after Me (Video)

This video from Holy Heroes shows us the humility of John the Baptist, which is the gospel for the Second Sunday in Advent for Year B. A coloring sheet and Mass quiz are also available for each week. Use these to prepare for Sunday Mass at home or for Children's Liturgy of the Word.

Second Sunday of Advent – Year B: Life Teen Summit Reflection

In this video from Life Teen, Joel Stepanek helps us understand the readings for the Second Sunday of Advent for Year B. This week we are called to prepare our hearts for Christ.

Sea Slime (for VBS or Youth Ministry)

Slime is easy to make and fun for kids to play with. Mix up a batch of sea slime for your ocean themed Vacation Bible School or youth group meeting.