5th Sunday of Easter Year C

• First Reading – Acts 14:21-27: Paul and Barnabas revisited cities, encouraging disciples and explaining hardships in God’s kingdom. They appointed church leaders, entrusted them to the Lord, and shared their mission success in Antioch, emphasizing God’s outreach to non-Jews.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 145: The Lord’s compassion and mercy extend to all, slow to anger and full of love. His works praise Him, and His followers speak of His eternal kingdom and majestic power.
• Second Reading – Revelation 21:1-5A: John describes a new heaven and earth, with the old gone. He sees a splendid New Jerusalem and hears God proclaim His eternal dwelling with people, erasing all pain and making everything new.
• Gospel – John 13:31-33A, 34-35: Jesus spoke of his imminent glorification, intertwining his honor with God’s. He shared a new commandment with his disciples: to love one another as he loved them. This mutual love among his followers would be the defining mark of their discipleship.

Lectionary Reference: 54

Upcoming dates: May 18, 2025, May 14, 2028, May 11, 2031

The 5th Sunday of Easter Year C focuses on the growth of the early Church and Jesus’ command to love one another. These readings highlight the importance of faith, community, and the promise of a new heaven and earth.

• Spreading the Gospel: Acts 14:21-27 shows Paul and Barnabas spreading the good news. This theme emphasizes the importance of sharing our faith with others.
• Endurance in Faith: Paul and Barnabas encourage believers to remain true to the faith despite hardships. This reminds us to stay strong in our faith through difficulties.
• New Creation: Revelation 21:1-5A speaks of a new heaven and a new earth. This theme assures us of God’s promise to make all things new.
• God’s Presence: In Revelation, God dwells with His people. This theme highlights the closeness of God and His presence in our lives.
• Love One Another: John 13:34-35 emphasizes Jesus’ command to love one another. This theme is central to Christian life and shows how we should treat others.
• Glorifying God: Jesus speaks of being glorified in John 13:31-33A. This theme teaches us to honor God in all we do.
• Community Support: The early Church supported each other as seen in Acts. This theme reminds us to help and support one another in our faith journeys.

These themes for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C encourage us to live out our faith in practical ways. They remind us of the importance of love, community, and the hope we have in God’s promises.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C.

Love One Another – A Lesson Plan on Love

On the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, the lesson focuses on Jesus’ new commandment to love one another. Love is not just an emotion but a choice and action. It means being patient, kind, forgiving, and wanting the best for others, just as Jesus loved us.

This type of love often requires sacrifice and putting others’ needs before our own. By loving this way, we show we are true disciples of Christ.

A Prayer to Love One Another

On the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, the Gospel reading reminds us of Jesus’ command to love one another as He loves us. This prayer asks God for the grace to show love, patience, kindness, and compassion to others. It seeks knowledge and unity with the world and the strength to help those in need.

By praying for these blessings, we ask for the ability to live out Jesus’ commandment and truly embody His love in our daily lives.

Emotion in Motion Game

The Emotion in Motion Game is a fun activity for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C. In this game, youth sit in a circle and use their facial expressions to pass emotions like happy, sad, or surprised around the circle.

This game highlights how our faces can reflect our feelings, helping us understand and connect with each other better. There are no winners or losers, making it a simple and engaging way to explore emotions and the importance of expressing love and compassion as Jesus taught.

Guide Me to Heaven Game

The Guide Me to Heaven Game is a great activity for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C. It teaches youth the importance of clear guidance and mutual support. Players rely on teammates to guide them safely, building trust and community.

The game shows how following the Church’s teachings can make our journey smoother and emphasizes helping each other reach “heaven.” This fun and meaningful experience brings the teachings of the Church to life, reinforcing lessons about faith and cooperation.

Psalm 145: God’s Greatness and Mercy

Psalm 145, the responsorial psalm for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, is a hymn of praise by King David. It speaks of God’s greatness, kindness, and constant care for all His creation. Despite the many challenges faced by the people of Israel, David reminded them of God’s goodness and mercy. This psalm was used in temple worship, helping the community stay united in faith.

Today, Catholics continue to use Psalm 145 in prayers and worship, celebrating God’s enduring love and faithfulness.

See a Prayer of Praise and Trust based on Psalm 145.

Understanding the Book of Revelation

The second reading for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C describes a new heaven and earth, with the old world gone. John sees a glorious New Jerusalem and hears God declare His eternal presence with people, removing all pain and making everything new.

The imagery and rituals in Revelation directly relate to the Mass, where we experience the heavenly banquet of the Lamb of God. The Mass reflects this vision, showing us God’s promise of eternal joy and communion with Him.

Resources for the Gospel of John

The Gospel for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, John 13:31-33A, 34-35, emphasizes Jesus’ new commandment to love one another as He has loved us. This teaching is part of the Last Supper discourse, where Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure and highlights the importance of love, the coming of the Holy Spirit, and unity among believers.

Jesus’ message underscores that love is the foundation of Christian life and morality. By loving one another, we show that we are His disciples.

Rescued from the Depths

In his homily for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, Bishop Robert Barron discusses the final chapters of Revelation. He explains how the Bible begins with creation out of chaos and ends with a new creation.

The sea, symbolizing chaos and sin, is no more. God renews the world through Jesus, the Lamb who was slain and risen. This signifies the end of sin and death. God invites us to help create this new world through acts of love and care. Bishop Barron emphasizes that this transformation fulfills the story of the Bible.

A New Commandment

In his reflection for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, Jeff Cavins emphasizes Jesus’ new commandment to love one another as He has loved us. This love is a sign to the world that we are His disciples.

Cavins highlights the importance of demonstrating this love in all our relationships, whether with family, neighbors, or colleagues. He also references Revelation, noting that as the Church, we are the bride of Christ, called to show God’s love in our actions. Cavins encourages us to be God’s billboard, displaying His love through our lives.

New For All Ages

In his reflection for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, Scott Hahn emphasizes the Church as the new Jerusalem, where God makes all things new. Paul and Barnabas proclaim this good news, showing that God’s kingdom is open to all who have faith.

The Church is described as eternal, with priests and bishops ensuring its continuity. Jesus’ new commandment to love one another as He loved us is highlighted, showing that this supernatural love is possible through the Spirit given at Baptism. By living this love, we glorify the Father and demonstrate to the world that we are God’s people.

How Do I Know You’re a Christian?

In this reflection for the Gospel for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, Jeff Cavins discusses Jesus’ new commandment to love one another as He has loved us, with a sacrificial love. This agape love, unlike brotherly love, is selfless and rooted in a covenant relationship.

Cavins emphasizes that true discipleship is shown through this kind of love, which can transform hearts and demonstrate Christ to the world. He urges Christians to prioritize sacrificial love over political views or prestige, as this love is the true witness needed in our culture. The reflection challenges us to embody this love in our daily interactions.

On the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, the readings invite us to reflect on God’s presence among us, the importance of love and faith in times of betrayal, and the need to support one another in our faith journeys. These themes remind us of the central messages of Christianity: God’s closeness, the call to love, and the strength found in community.

God’s Presence Among Us

On the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, we reflect on the comforting theme of God dwelling with His people. In Revelation, we see a vision where God lives with us, wiping away every tear and taking away pain and suffering. This image assures us of God’s constant presence and care in our lives.

God being close to us means He is involved in our daily lives. He is not distant or far away but is always near, offering comfort and guidance. This presence can be a source of strength and hope, especially during difficult times.

The promise of God dwelling with us also means we are never alone. No matter what challenges we face, we can trust that God is with us. This closeness gives us the courage to move forward, knowing that God’s love and support are always available.

The 5th Sunday of Easter Year C encourages us to recognize and cherish God’s presence in our lives. It reminds us to seek His guidance and feel His comfort. By embracing this closeness, we can live with a deeper sense of peace and assurance that God is always with us.

Love and Faith in the Face of Betrayal

On the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, we reflect on the themes of love and faith found in the readings. At this point in the Gospel of John, Jesus and His disciples are in Jerusalem for the Passover. Jesus is aware of His impending betrayal by Judas and the plots against Him. Despite this, Jesus chooses to speak about love and service, showing His trust in the Father.

In the reading from Acts, Paul and Barnabas encourage the early Church to remain strong in their faith. They show us the importance of community and support. In the face of hardships, they continue to spread the Gospel, teaching us that faith and perseverance go hand in hand.

The passage from Revelation offers hope with the vision of a new heaven and a new earth. It reminds us that God is with us, wiping away our tears and promising a future free of pain and suffering. This vision encourages us to hold on to our faith, knowing that God is always near.

Finally, Jesus’ new commandment to love one another as He has loved us is a powerful message for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C. Despite knowing He would be betrayed, Jesus focuses on love and service. His example teaches us to love others even in difficult times and to trust in God’s plan.

Reflecting on these readings, we learn the importance of staying strong in our faith, supporting one another, and focusing on love and service. The 5th Sunday of Easter Year C reminds us that, even in the face of challenges and betrayal, our faith and love for others should remain unwavering.

Supporting Each Other in Love

On the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C, we are reminded of the importance of supporting each other in our faith journeys. The early Church, as seen in Acts, shows us how believers helped one another. Paul and Barnabas encouraged the new Christians to stay strong in their faith despite challenges. This support was crucial in building a strong and united community of believers.

Jesus’ command to love one another, highlighted in the Gospel, is central to Christian life. He taught this lesson at a time when He knew He would be betrayed. Instead of focusing on His own troubles, Jesus emphasized the importance of loving others. This teaches us that love should be the foundation of our relationships, even in difficult times.

Helping and supporting one another in our faith journeys means being there for each other through both good and bad times. It means offering a listening ear, a helping hand, and a kind word. By doing this, we follow Jesus’ example and build a community rooted in love and care.

The 5th Sunday of Easter Year C calls us to reflect on how we can better support each other in our faith. It reminds us that love and community go hand in hand. By loving and supporting one another, we live out the true essence of our faith and strengthen the bond within our community.

The 5th Sunday of Easter Year C encourages us to embrace God’s presence, practice love and service even in difficult times, and support each other in our faith. By reflecting on these themes, we are reminded to live out our faith with trust in God and love for one another, building a stronger community in the process.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for Your constant presence in our lives. Help us to love one another as Jesus taught us. Give us the strength to support each other in our faith journeys and to trust in Your plan. Amen.

• How does the idea of God dwelling with us comfort you?
• In what ways can you feel God’s presence in your daily life?
• How can you show love to others, especially when facing challenges?
• What can we learn from Jesus’ focus on love and service despite betrayal?
• How did the early Church support each other, and how can we do the same today?
• Why is community support important in our faith journeys?
• What steps can you take to offer more support to those around you?
• How does the vision of a new heaven and a new earth give you hope?
• What does Jesus’ command to love one another mean to you personally?
• How can you apply the lessons from the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C in your life this week?

The music selections for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C focus on themes of love, renewal, and praising God. These songs celebrate the new commandment to love one another as Christ has loved us. They highlight the renewal of creation, the joy of Christ’s resurrection, and the importance of unity within the Church. These themes are conveyed through uplifting anthems, reflective hymns, and joyful praise songs that encourage the congregation to embrace and live out the message of love and renewal.

• All Are Welcome, All Belong by Jesse Manibusan & Ken Canedo
• Alleluia! Alleluia! Let the Holy Anthem Rise by Timothy R Smith
• As It Is in Heaven by Matt Maher
• At the Sound by Robbie Seay & Ike Ndolo
• Be Thou My Vision by Audrey Assad
• Christ Is Risen by Matt Maher
• Christians, Let Us Love One Another by Claudia Foltz
• City of God by Dan Schutte
• I Give You a New Commandment by Bob Hurd
• I Received the Living God
• I Will Praise Your Name Forever: Psalm 145 by Tanya Smith
• Jesus Is Risen by Ralph Vaughan Williams
• Love Divine All Loves Excelling by Rowland H. Pritchard & Charles Wesley
• Love One Another by Bob Dufford
• New Creation by Jackie François
• Open Up the Heavens by Meredith Andrews
• Peace by Gregory Norbet & Weston Priory
• Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven
• Psalm 145: I Will Praise Your Name Forever by Bob Hurd
• Rejoice, the Lord Is King by John Darwall, Charles Wesley & Randall Debruyn
• See, I Make All Things New by Sean Holmes & Ken Canedo
• Sing a Joyful Song by Jim Farrell
• Song of Hope by Robbie Seay Band
• Soon and Very Soon by Andrae Crouch
• They’ll Know We Are Christians by Jars of Clay
• This Is My Commandment by Carey Landry
• To Jesus Christ, Our Sovereign King by Martin B. Hellriegel
• We Gather Together by Edward Kremser & Robert E. Kreutz
• Where Charity and Love Abide by Trevor Thomson & Karen Bolduc

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to try these selections and consider how they enhance the worship experience. Feel free to share your own suggestions and favorites in the comments to help create a rich and inspiring liturgical celebration.

What date is the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C?

The next date is Sunday May 18, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
5th Sunday of Easter Year A
5th Sunday of Easter Year B

What are the Mass readings for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C?

The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday May 18, 2025 are:
First Reading – Acts 14:21-27: Paul and Barnabas Strengthen Churches
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 145: Everlasting Mercy and Kingdom
Second Reading – Revelation 21:1-5A: Vision of the New Jerusalem
Gospel – John 13:31-33A, 34-35: Jesus’ Teaching on Love

What is the main message of the first reading for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C?

In Acts 14:21-27, Paul and Barnabas encourage the early Church to stay strong in faith. They show the importance of sharing the Gospel and supporting each other.

Why is endurance in faith important?

Endurance in faith is important because it helps us stay committed to God, even when life is hard. Paul and Barnabas remind us that we must face hardships to enter the kingdom of God.

What can we learn from the early Church’s support of each other in Acts 14:21-27?

We learn the importance of community and helping one another. The early Church’s support shows us the value of being united and caring for each other.

What does Revelation 21:1-5A mean by “a new heaven and a new earth”?

Revelation 21:1-5A speaks of a new creation where everything is made new. This means that God will renew and perfect the world, giving us hope for the future.

What hope does Revelation 21:1-5A give us?

It gives us hope that God will make everything new and perfect. We can look forward to a future without pain or suffering.

How does God show His presence in the second reading for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C?

God shows His presence by living with His people. He promises to be with us, wipe away our tears, and remove pain and death.

What does Jesus mean by “a new commandment” in the Gospel for the 5th Sunday of Easter Year C?

Jesus means that we should love one another as He has loved us. This is a new way to show we are His disciples.

How can we apply the command to love one another in our daily lives?

We can apply this by being kind, helping others, and showing forgiveness. Loving others as Jesus loves us means putting others first.

Why is glorifying God important according to John 13:31-33A?

Glorifying God is important because it shows our respect and honor for Him. Jesus speaks of His glorification to remind us to live in a way that honors God.

How does the theme of spreading the Gospel apply to us today?

It reminds us to share our faith with others. We can do this by talking about Jesus, living according to His teachings, and inviting others to church.