Sunday July 14, 2024
Mass Readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
- First Reading – Amos 7:12-15: Amaziah orders Amos to leave Bethel and prophesy elsewhere. Amos responds he was called by God from his life as a shepherd to prophesy to Israel.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 85: I pray to hear God’s promises of peace and witness his glory in our land. His salvation is near, and he blesses us with abundant harvests and righteousness.
- Second Reading – Ephesians 1:3-14 or 1:3-10: We are blessed in Christ with spiritual riches, chosen to be holy, redeemed by his sacrifice, and sealed with the Holy Spirit, fulfilling God’s plan for unity and glory.
- Gospel – Mark 6:7-13: Jesus empowered the Twelve, sending them with minimal provisions to preach repentance, expel demons, and heal the sick. They were to stay in welcoming homes and leave unwelcoming places.
Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave. Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.
Mark 6:10-11
Themes for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
On the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, the readings focus on God’s call and mission. We see how God chooses ordinary people to carry out His work.
- God’s Call: Amos was a shepherd when God called him to prophesy to Israel. This shows that God can call anyone for His mission.
- Spiritual Blessings: In Ephesians, we learn that we are blessed with spiritual riches in Christ. This means we are chosen, redeemed, and sealed with the Holy Spirit.
- Mission of the Twelve: Jesus sends out the Twelve apostles to preach, heal, and expel demons. They are to rely on God and the hospitality of others.
- Repentance and Faith: The apostles were sent to preach repentance. This teaches us the importance of turning away from sin and believing in God’s message.
- Relying on God: Jesus instructs the apostles to take minimal supplies. This shows that we should trust God to provide for our needs.
The themes for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B remind us that God calls us all to serve Him. We are blessed in Christ and should trust in God as we carry out our mission.
See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B.
Resources for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Sunday July 14, 2024
Who’s Your Buddy? A Lesson Plan on Friendship
This lesson plan on friendship relates to the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. In the Gospel reading (Mark 6:7-13), Jesus sends out the Twelve apostles in pairs. He knew the value of having support on their faith journeys. Good friends in faith help us stay strong and focused. The lesson plan emphasizes forming these supportive relationships. Jesus’ approach shows that we don’t have to go it alone in our faith. By having Christian friends, we can encourage each other and stay committed to our mission, just as the apostles did.
Pair Off Square Off Icebreaker
The “Pair Off Square Off” game is a fun and engaging icebreaker activity for youth groups. It helps participants feel at ease and encourages interaction by having them find their partners based on famous pairs. This activity relates to the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, where Jesus sends the apostles out in pairs (Mark 6:7-13). Just as the apostles supported each other on their mission, this game fosters communication and connection among participants, setting a positive tone for the group.
Understanding the Book of Amos
The first reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B is from the Book of Amos. This book tells the story of Amos, a shepherd and farmer from Tekoa, who is called by God to be a prophet. He delivers strong messages to Israel, condemning their social injustices and false worship. Amos criticizes the rich for oppressing the poor and the leaders for their corruption. He calls for true worship and righteous living. Amos’ message remains relevant today, urging us to act justly, help those in need, and be sincere in our faith and worship. His teachings remind us to align our actions with our beliefs and live out our faith daily.
Prayer to the God of Peace and Justice (Based on Psalm 85)
This prayer, based on Psalm 85, connects to the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. Psalm 85 is the responsorial psalm for this Sunday, emphasizing God’s desire for peace and justice. Just as Jesus sent out the apostles to spread His message and heal in pairs, this prayer reminds us of our role in promoting God’s peace and justice. It highlights the importance of forgiveness, mercy, and working towards a just world. As we reflect on these themes, we are inspired to actively pursue peace in our lives and communities.
Resources for the Gospel of Mark
The Gospel of Mark is a unique account of Jesus’ life and ministry, known for its brevity and fast-paced narrative. This article explores key sections of the Gospel, showing how each part contributes to the overall message of Jesus’ ministry. This relates to the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, where Jesus sends out the apostles (Mark 6:7-13). This commissioning of the Twelve highlights the importance of discipleship and active participation in spreading the Gospel. Understanding Mark’s storytelling helps us appreciate the significance of Jesus’ teachings and the call to follow Him.
Homilies and Reflections for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Sunday July 14, 2024
Proclaiming Christ in the Culture
In his homily for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the story of Amos and emphasizes that all baptized people are called to be prophets. He points out that like Amos, ordinary people can be called to speak God’s word and act justly. Bishop Barron encourages us to let the language of faith be on our lips, always be ready to explain our hope, speak out against social injustices, and be prepared for unpopularity. He underscores the importance of prayer in maintaining a prophetic voice.
What a Rich Inheritance We Have in Christ!
In his reflection for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Jeff Cavins explores Ephesians 1. He compares discovering an inheritance in a will to realizing the spiritual riches given by God. Cavins lists these blessings: being chosen, redeemed, knowing God’s will, and being sealed with the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is the guarantee of our inheritance, like a downpayment or a ring. Cavins encourages us to recognize and walk in these riches as sons and daughters of God.
The Church’s Mission
In his reflection for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Scott Hahn compares the mission of the Apostles to the Israelites’ exodus. Jesus’ instructions to the Twelve echo those given to the twelve tribes, emphasizing reliance on God’s providence. Hahn highlights that the Apostles, like Amos, are ordinary men called to lead others to the kingdom of heaven. The Church’s mission involves faithfulness despite rejection. Paul reminds us that we are chosen to live for God’s glory. Hahn urges us to give thanks for the Church and commit to spreading the Gospel.
More Thoughts for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Mission and Blessings
In the first reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, we hear about Amos. He was a simple shepherd. God called him to be a prophet. Amos did not seek this role. He obeyed God’s call and spoke His message to Israel. This shows us that God can call anyone, no matter their background.
In the second reading from Ephesians, we learn about the spiritual blessings we have in Christ. We are chosen to be holy. We are redeemed by Jesus’ sacrifice. We are sealed with the Holy Spirit. This reminds us that our blessings are not just physical but spiritual.
The Gospel reading shows Jesus sending out the Twelve apostles. He gives them authority over unclean spirits. He tells them to travel light and rely on God. They are to preach repentance and heal the sick. This teaches us about faith and trust in God.
Living Out Our Call
God calls each of us to a mission. Amos was called from being a shepherd. The apostles were called from their daily work. We too are called to serve God in our lives. We should listen for His call and be ready to respond.
Trust is key in our mission. Jesus told the apostles to take only what was necessary. They had to rely on the hospitality of others. This means trusting God to provide for us as we do His work.
Repentance is also important. The apostles preached repentance to everyone they met. This is a call for us to turn away from sin and follow God more closely. Repentance leads to a closer relationship with God.
Our Response
We are blessed with spiritual riches. Ephesians reminds us of this truth. We are chosen, redeemed, and sealed with the Holy Spirit. These blessings should inspire us to live holy lives and share God’s love with others.
The readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B remind us of our mission. God calls us to serve Him and trust in His guidance. As we respond to His call, we grow in faith and love.
Let us pray for the grace to hear God’s call and the courage to respond. May we trust in His care and preach His message of repentance and love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to hear Your call and respond with faith. Give us the courage to follow where You lead. Help us to trust in Your care and share Your message of love with others. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
- How do you hear God’s call in your life?
- What can you learn from Amos’ response to God’s call?
- How do the spiritual blessings in Ephesians encourage you?
- What does it mean to you to be chosen, redeemed, and sealed with the Holy Spirit?
- How can you trust God more in your daily life?
- What does Jesus’ instruction to the apostles teach you about relying on God?
- How can you practice repentance in your life?
- What mission do you feel God is calling you to?
- How do the readings inspire you to serve others?
- How can you share God’s love with those around you?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Music Suggestions for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Sunday July 14, 2024
The music selections for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focus on themes of mission, calling, and trust in God. These songs emphasize being sent out to spread the Gospel, following Jesus’ instructions to the apostles. The music reflects the themes of being chosen by God, walking in His light, and sharing His love with others. There are songs about service, hope, and faithfulness, which align with the readings’ messages about God’s guidance and our role in His plan. This music can inspire the congregation to embrace their mission and live out their faith.
- After All (Holy)
- Anthem
- Companions on the Journey
- Go Into the World
- Go Out, Go Out
- Go Make Disciples
- God Has Chosen Me
- God Is Love
- I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light
- Let God Arise
- Lord, Let Us See Your Kindness
- Lord, Let Us See Your Kindness – Psalm 85
- Make the Love of God Known
- Maranatha
- Miracle of Grace
- Out of Darkness
- Servant Song
- Song of Hope
- Surrender
- Take My Life
- Take the Word of God With You
- Tell the Good News
- The Servant Song
- Tis the Gift to Be Simple
- Ubi Caritas
- We Belong to You
- With One Voice
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to try these selections and see how they enhance the worship experience. Feel free to share your own music choices and suggestions in the comments to enrich our community’s musical selections.
Questions and Answers for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
What date is the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
The next date is Sunday July 14, 2024.
For other years see the links below:
15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
What are the Mass readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday July 14, 2024 are:
First Reading – Amos 7:12-15: Amos’s Called Mission
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 85: Prayers for God’s Mercy
Second Reading – Ephesians 1:3-14 or 1:3-10: Inheritance of Grace
Gospel – Mark 6:7-13: Mission of the Twelve
Why did God call Amos to be a prophet in the first reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
God called Amos, a shepherd, to be a prophet because He wanted to deliver a message to Israel. It shows that God can choose anyone for His work, no matter their background.
How can we apply the lesson from Amos to our lives?
We can apply Amos’ lesson by being open to God’s call. No matter our job or status, God may call us to serve Him in different ways.
What does it mean to be “sealed with the Holy Spirit” in the second reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
Being “sealed with the Holy Spirit” means we belong to God. It is a sign that we are protected and guided by the Holy Spirit.
What does it mean to be chosen in Ephesians?
Being chosen means God has a special purpose for us. We are called to live holy lives and share His love with others.
How do spiritual blessings help us?
Spiritual blessings, like being chosen and redeemed, give us strength and hope. They remind us of God’s love and our mission to live for Him.
Why did Jesus tell the apostles to travel light in the Gospel for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
Jesus told the apostles to travel light so they would rely on God for their needs. It teaches us to trust in God’s care and not depend too much on material things.
What can we learn from the apostles’ mission?
We learn to spread God’s message and help others. We should rely on God and be willing to go where He sends us.
What is the main message of the Gospel reading?
The main message is about preaching repentance and healing. Jesus sent the apostles to help people turn away from sin and find healing through God’s love.
How can we practice repentance?
We can practice repentance by acknowledging our sins, asking for forgiveness, and making an effort to change our ways. This helps us grow closer to God.
Why is trust important in the readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
Trust is important because it shows our faith in God’s care. The apostles trusted God to provide for them, and we should do the same in our lives.
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