2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
Sunday March 16, 2025
Mass Readings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
- First Reading: Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18: God promised Abram countless descendants and the land from Egypt to the Euphrates. Abram believed, and God made a covenant with him, marked by a ritual with animal sacrifices.
- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 27: The Lord is my light and salvation. I seek His presence and help, trusting I will see His goodness. Wait for the Lord with courage.
- Second Reading: Philippians 3:17 – 4:1: Imitate those who follow Christ. Many focus on earthly things and face destruction. Our citizenship is in heaven, and Jesus will transform us. Stand firm in the Lord.
- Gospel: Luke 9:28B-36: Jesus took Peter, John, and James to pray on a mountain. His appearance changed, and Moses and Elijah appeared. A cloud overshadowed them, and a voice said, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”
While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.
Luke 9:29
Themes for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, the readings invite us to reflect on faith, transformation, and God’s promises. These themes help us to grow closer to God during Lent.
- God’s Promise to Abram: God promises Abram descendants as numerous as the stars. This shows God’s faithfulness and His plan for our salvation.
- Covenant with Abram: God makes a covenant with Abram, ensuring his future and the land for his descendants. This covenant is a sign of God’s commitment to His people.
- Faith and Righteousness: Abram’s faith is counted as righteousness. This teaches us the importance of faith in our relationship with God.
- Heavenly Citizenship: St. Paul urges us to follow his example and live as citizens of heaven. This reminds us to focus on our heavenly home and not just on earthly things.
- Christ’s Glory Revealed: In the Transfiguration, Jesus reveals His glory to Peter, James, and John. This shows His divine nature and prepares them for His suffering and death.
- Listen to Jesus: God the Father tells the disciples to listen to His beloved Son. This emphasizes the importance of Jesus’ teachings and following His example.
The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C calls us to deepen our faith and trust in God’s promises. It encourages us to listen to Jesus and live as citizens of heaven.
See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C.
Resources for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
Sunday March 16, 2025
Mountain Time
This lesson plan on mountains in the Bible helps youth explore their significance in Scripture. It focuses on why mountains are often depicted as special places to encounter God and invites participants to reflect on having their own “mountaintop” experiences. The Gospel reading for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, which describes Jesus’ Transfiguration, serves as a central focus.
Participants will also examine other biblical accounts of mountain encounters to understand how they reveal God’s presence and plans. The lesson encourages youth to seek and recognize God’s presence in their own lives.
Around the Mountain Game
The Around the Mountain Game is a fun icebreaker that combines elements of “I Would Never Ever” and “Musical Chairs.” This activity can help youth connect with the themes of the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C. As participants share and move around, they experience the idea of stepping out of their comfort zones, much like the disciples did during the Transfiguration.
The game encourages openness and movement, symbolizing the journey up the mountain to encounter God and returning transformed. It fosters a sense of community and readiness to explore deeper faith experiences.
Ups and Downs Discussion and Reflection
The Ups and Downs Discussion and Reflection helps youth understand life’s highs and lows through the story of the Transfiguration. On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, we reflect on how the apostles experienced an extraordinary moment with Jesus on the mountain, which strengthened them during tough times.
This lesson encourages youth to remember their own “mountaintop” experiences with God to find strength during everyday challenges. Reflecting on these moments helps us carry the light of those experiences into our daily lives.
More Lenten Ideas
Lent is a time for conversion and reflection, beginning on Ash Wednesday and lasting 40 days. During Lent, Catholics practice prayer, fasting, and almsgiving to grow closer to God. On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, we continue these practices by making small sacrifices, praying more, and giving to those in need.
This page offers over 75 ideas for how to engage in these Lenten practices, suitable for all ages. You can also find specific ideas for each Sunday in Lent and detailed information about Holy Week. Here are a few ideas from the page:
The Transfiguration – Lego Video: This engaging video tells the story of the Transfiguration with Legos. Kids of all ages will appreciate this presentation of this passage from the Gospel.
The Letter to the Philippians
On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, Paul’s message in Philippians 3:17–4:1 calls Christians to imitate faithful leaders and keep their eyes on heavenly, not earthly, goals. Paul warns that focusing on earthly pleasures leads to destruction, while our true home is in heaven. He assures believers that Christ will transform our bodies to be like His own, bringing us into eternal glory.
This reading encourages us to “stand firm in the Lord” amid worldly distractions, finding strength in our heavenly citizenship and unity with Christ and His Church.
The Gospel of Luke
On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, Luke 9:28b-36 reveals the Transfiguration, where Jesus’ divine glory is shown to Peter, John, and James. In prayer, Jesus’ appearance changes, and Moses and Elijah appear, symbolizing the Law and the Prophets. God’s voice declares, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him,” confirming Jesus’ divine mission.
Luke’s Gospel often emphasizes prayer, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus’ compassion. Through unique parables like the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, Luke invites readers to mercy and humility, teachings central to Catholic faith and deeply relevant to daily life.
Homilies and Commentaries for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
Sunday March 16, 2025
Awaiting Resurrection
In his homily for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the mystical and transcendent themes in the readings. He explains how the covenant with Abraham, St. Paul’s message to the Philippians, and the Transfiguration of Jesus all point to a higher reality.
Bishop Barron emphasizes that our true citizenship is in heaven and that our bodies will be glorified like Jesus’ Transfigured body. These readings remind us of the ultimate goal of our faith journey and give us hope as we navigate life’s challenges.
Change and Covenant
In his reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, Jeff Cavins discusses the theme of change. He highlights Abraham’s faith in God’s promise despite not seeing immediate results, which was counted as righteousness.
Cavins also explains the Transfiguration, where Jesus discusses his upcoming sacrifice. He emphasizes that faith can lead to significant changes in our lives, just as it did for Abraham. The reflection encourages us to engage deeply with scripture and the Eucharist, where true transformation occurs.
The Glory in Sight
In his reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, Scott Hahn explains the significance of the Transfiguration. Jesus is seen speaking with Moses and Elijah about His upcoming “exodus,” symbolizing His death and resurrection that will liberate all people from sin and death.
This event fulfills the Old Testament teachings and reveals the glory of the Trinity. The divine voice instructs us to listen to Jesus, the chosen One, promising that if we have faith, we will share in His resurrection and be glorified like Him.
The Transfiguration and the New Exodus
In his reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, Brant Pitre discusses the Transfiguration in Luke’s Gospel, focusing on Jesus’ “Exodus.” This term, better translated as “departure,” connects to the Old Testament Exodus led by Moses. Jesus’ Exodus, discussed with Moses and Elijah, signifies a new journey through His death, resurrection, and ascension, leading not to an earthly promised land, but to a heavenly one.
Pitre emphasizes that this new Exodus both parallels and surpasses the old, showing Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecies and pointing towards His ultimate sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection.
Reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C invites us to reflect on God’s faithfulness, our heavenly citizenship, and His glory in our lives. The readings teach us about trust in God’s promises, living with an eternal focus, and allowing God’s glory to shine through us. These reflections help us deepen our faith during this Lenten season.
God’s Promise and Covenant
On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, we read about God’s promise to Abram. God tells Abram his descendants will be as numerous as the stars. This shows God’s faithfulness and His plan for our salvation. God’s promise is not just words but is backed by a covenant. This covenant assures Abram of his future and the land for his descendants.
God’s covenant with Abram is a powerful sign of His commitment to His people. Abram did not doubt God’s promise. He believed even when it seemed impossible. This faith is what made him righteous before God. We, too, are called to trust in God’s promises.
The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C teaches us about the importance of faith. Like Abram, we need to trust God’s plan for us. Even when we cannot see the future, we must believe that God is faithful. His promises are sure, and His covenant is everlasting.
We also see God’s commitment to His people through the covenant. It is a sign that God will never abandon us. He is always with us, guiding and protecting us. As we journey through Lent, let us remember God’s promise and covenant with us.
In our lives, we can apply this message by trusting in God’s promises. No matter what challenges we face, we can have faith that God is with us. His commitment to us is unchanging. Let us hold on to this truth as we continue our Lenten journey.
Living as Citizens of Heaven
The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C brings us St. Paul’s message to live as citizens of heaven. He urges us to follow his example. This reminds us to focus on our heavenly home and not just on earthly things. St. Paul’s words are a call to live with our eyes on eternity.
Living as citizens of heaven means prioritizing our spiritual life. We should seek to grow closer to God each day. Our actions and decisions should reflect our faith. We are called to live in a way that honors God and shows our hope in His promises.
The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C challenges us to evaluate our priorities. Are we more focused on earthly success or on our relationship with God? St. Paul’s message encourages us to shift our focus. We should live in a way that prepares us for our heavenly home.
This reflection helps us understand the temporary nature of our earthly life. Our true home is with God in heaven. Everything we do should point towards this reality. As we reflect on St. Paul’s words, let us commit to living as citizens of heaven.
In practical terms, this means making choices that reflect our faith. It means being kind, loving, and generous. It means staying close to God through prayer and the sacraments. On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, let us renew our commitment to live as citizens of heaven.
Seeing God’s Glory in Our Lives
The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C reminds us that God’s glory is always present in our lives. Sometimes we are too attached to our own expectations to see it. We might be too set in our ways, unwilling to let God change us. But God’s glory shines through when we let go and let Him work in us.
We often miss God’s glory because we are focused on ourselves. We want to project a certain image to the world. But this blocks others from seeing God’s work in us. The readings teach us to have faith in God’s promises, like Abraham did. When God told him his descendants would be as numerous as the stars, Abraham believed even though he couldn’t see it.
The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C calls us to let go of our own plans. We need to trust God’s vision for our lives. Abraham’s faith is an example for us. He believed in God’s promises even when it seemed impossible. We are called to have the same faith.
As we reflect on these readings, we are reminded to look for God’s glory in everyday life. It might be in small acts of kindness or moments of peace. When we open our hearts to God, His glory shines through us. We need to let go of our own image and let God’s light be seen.
Applying this to our lives means being open to change. It means trusting God’s plan and believing in His promises. On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, let us commit to letting God’s glory shine through us. This Lent, may we grow in faith and openness to God’s work in our lives.
As we reflect on the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, we are called to deepen our faith in God’s promises, live with an eternal focus, and let God’s glory shine through us. These reflections guide us to trust God more fully and live as true citizens of heaven. Let us embrace these lessons and continue our Lenten journey with renewed faith and hope.
Prayer
Lord, help us to trust in Your promises like Abram. Guide us to live as citizens of heaven, focusing on Your glory. Open our hearts to Your work in our lives. May we reflect Your love and light to the world. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
- What does God’s covenant with Abram teach you about His commitment to you?
- How can you trust in God’s promises more fully in your life?
- What does it mean to you to live as a citizen of heaven?
- How can you let go of your own plans to see God’s glory more clearly?
- In what ways can you reflect God’s light to others?
- How does Abram’s faith inspire you in your own faith journey?
- What changes can you make to prioritize your spiritual life?
- How can you open your heart to God’s work in your life?
- What steps can you take to grow closer to God during Lent?
- How can you show kindness, love, and generosity in your daily life?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
Like the disciples, we too are in need of God’s light, that makes us see things in a different way: it attracts us, it reawakens us, it reignites our desire and strength to pray, to look within ourselves, and to dedicate time to others.
Pope Francis
Music Suggestions for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
Sunday March 16, 2025
The music selections for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C focus on themes of faith, trust in God’s promises, and the glory of Jesus. These songs help us reflect on God’s commitment to us and our call to live as citizens of heaven. They also remind us of the need to open our hearts to God’s work in our lives and let His light shine through us. These songs create a reflective and uplifting atmosphere that aligns well with the Lenten journey.
- All that is Hidden by Bernadette Farrell
- At the Name of Jesus by Suzanne Toolan & Caroline Maria Noel
- Be Thou My Vision by Audrey Assad
- Beautiful Savior
- Beyond the Days by Ricky Manalo
- Breathe on Me, O Breath of God by Edwin Hatch
- Bring Forth the Kingdom by Marty Haugen
- Christ Be Our Light by Bernadette Farrell
- Empty and Beautiful by Matt Maher
- Gracious God by Jesse Manibusan
- Immortal, Invisible God Only Wise by Walter C. Smith
- In Every Age by Janèt Sullivan Whitaker
- In This Place by Trevor Thomson
- Lead Me Home by Matt Maher
- Love Divine, All Loves Excelling by Rowland H. Pritchard & Charles Wesley
- Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory
- O Beauty, Ever Ancient by the St. Louis Jesuits
- O God, Our Help in Ages Past by William Croft & Isaac Watts
- Praise to You, O Christ, Our Savior by Bernadette Farrell
- Psalm 27: The Lord is My Light by Randall Debruyn
- Psalm 27: The Lord Is My Light and My Salvation by Rawn Harbor
- Shine Jesus Shine by Graham Kendrick
- The Glory of These Forty Days by Gregory the Great
- The Lord Is My Light by Christopher Walker
- There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy by Fredrick William Faber
- Tis Good, Lord, to Be Here by Joseph A. Robinson
- Transfiguration by Ricky Manalo
- Transfigure Us, O Lord by Bob Hurd
- What Wondrous Love is This by Connie Campbell Hart & Randall Debruyn
- You Are Near by Dan Schutte
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections and consider how they enhance the themes of the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C. Feel free to share your own suggestions and experiences in the comments. This collaborative effort will help enrich our worship and deepen our understanding of these important themes.
Questions and Answers for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C
What date is the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C?
The next date is Sunday March 16, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
2nd Sunday of Lent Year A
2nd Sunday of Lent Year B
What are the Mass readings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C?
The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday March 16, 2025 are:
First Reading: Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18: God’s Covenant with Abram
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 27: The Lord Is My Light
Second Reading: Philippians 3:17 – 4:1: Stand Firm in the Lord
Gospel: Luke 9:28B-36: The Transfiguration of Jesus
What is the meaning of God’s promise to Abram in the first reading for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C?
We learn that God promises Abram many descendants. This shows God’s faithfulness and His plan for the future of His people.
Why did God make a covenant with Abram?
God makes a covenant to show His commitment. It ensures Abram’s future and the land for his descendants.
What does it mean that Abram’s faith was counted as righteousness?
We see Abram trusted God completely. His faith made him right with God, teaching us the value of trust in God.
How can we apply the message of God’s promise to Abram in our lives?
We learn to trust in God’s promises, even when we cannot see the future. This teaches us to have faith in God’s plans for us.
What can we learn from Abram’s example of faith?
Abram’s trust in God shows us how to live faithfully. We are encouraged to trust God in all things.
How can we live as citizens of heaven according to the second reading for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C?
By following Jesus’ example and focusing on spiritual growth. This reminds us to live in a way that honors our heavenly home.
What is the significance of St. Paul’s message in Philippians 3:17?
St. Paul encourages us to live as citizens of heaven. We should focus on our spiritual journey and not just on earthly concerns.
Why does God the Father tell the disciples to listen to Jesus in the Gospel for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C?
God the Father wants the disciples to follow Jesus’ teachings. It emphasizes the importance of listening to and obeying Jesus.
How does the Transfiguration relate to Lent?
Jesus shows His glory in the Transfiguration. This prepares the disciples for His coming suffering and reminds us to focus on His divine nature.
Why is the Transfiguration important for our faith?
It shows Jesus’ divine glory and prepares the disciples for His suffering. The 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C helps us understand the importance of Jesus’ divine nature.
God’s Promises, Faith, and Glory
On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, the readings encourage us to reflect on God’s promises, the call to live with our eyes on heaven, and the gift of faith. In the reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that his descendants will be as countless as the stars. God then makes a covenant with Abram, showing His commitment to Abram and his people. Abram’s strong faith, even when he couldn’t see the future, is counted as righteousness. We are reminded to have this same faith, trusting that God’s promises are true.
In Philippians, St. Paul urges Christians to live as citizens of heaven. He encourages us to follow his example and not to be caught up in earthly things. Living as citizens of heaven means focusing on our relationship with God and not being distracted by temporary things. This helps us keep an eternal perspective and prepares us for life with God. St. Paul’s words invite us to think about our own priorities and to make choices that reflect our faith.
Finally, in the Gospel of Luke, the Transfiguration shows Jesus’ glory. Peter, James, and John see Jesus speaking with Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets. A voice from the cloud tells them to “listen to Him,” reminding us to follow Jesus’ teachings. This moment on the mountain strengthens the disciples, preparing them for what is to come. The Transfiguration invites us to see God’s glory in our lives and to be open to His work in us.
These readings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C invite us to trust in God’s promises, live with an eternal focus, and open our hearts to God’s presence in our lives. They encourage us to deepen our faith, listen to Jesus, and live as true citizens of heaven.
Your Turn
On the 2nd Sunday of Lent Year C, think about the messages in these readings. How do they relate to your life? Consider the call to trust in God’s promises and to live as a citizen of heaven. Reflect on how you can see God’s presence in your daily life.
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section. This Lent, let’s grow in faith together.
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