Free Resources and Reflections
Mass Readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
Sunday May 25, 2025
- First Reading – Acts 15:1-2, 22-29: The apostles decided not to burden Gentile believers with circumcision but asked them to avoid certain practices. They sent a letter with representatives to confirm this decision.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 67: May God bless us and guide the nations, so all peoples praise Him with joy and respect His ways.
- Second Reading – Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23: The angel showed me Jerusalem, shining with God’s glory. It had twelve gates and foundations named after the tribes of Israel and apostles. God and the Lamb are its temple and light.
- Gospel – John 14:23-29: Jesus promises the Holy Spirit will teach and remind us of His words. He leaves His peace and tells us not to be afraid, preparing us for His return to the Father.
The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.
John 14:26
Themes for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
The 6th Sunday of Easter Year C brings us closer to the heart of the early Church’s journey. It invites us to reflect on key themes from the Mass readings and consider how they apply to our lives.
- Unity in Faith: The first reading shows the early Church dealing with disagreements. It reminds us that unity in faith requires listening and compromise.
- Guidance of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit helps guide the decisions of the apostles in Acts 15:28. We see how the Holy Spirit still guides the Church today.
- New Jerusalem: The second reading describes the vision of the New Jerusalem. It represents the hope and promise of a future with God.
- God’s Presence: In Revelation 21:22-23, we learn there is no need for a temple because God’s presence is everywhere. This shows us that God is always with us.
- Obedience to Jesus: The Gospel speaks about keeping Jesus’ word as a sign of love. Obeying Jesus’ teachings brings us closer to Him.
- Gift of Peace: Jesus promises peace in John 14:27. This peace is different from what the world offers and calms our hearts.
These themes highlight important lessons for our faith journey. The 6th Sunday of Easter Year C encourages us to seek unity, listen to the Holy Spirit, and embrace the peace Jesus gives us.
See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C.
Resources for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
Sunday May 25, 2025
I Am With You Lesson Plan
The “I Am With You” lesson plan for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C helps youth understand the role of the Holy Spirit. Through this lesson, young people learn that the Holy Spirit is a gift from God, sent to guide and support them. By exploring John 14:23-29, they see how the Holy Spirit acts as a constant companion, teaching and reminding them of Jesus’ teachings. This lesson emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is always with us, helping us live as disciples of Jesus.
Prayer to the Holy Spirit by St. Augustine
The prayer to the Holy Spirit by St. Augustine connects beautifully with the Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, John 14:23-29. In this Gospel, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, who will teach and remind us of His teachings. St. Augustine’s prayer asks the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts, actions, and hearts towards holiness. It reflects the role of the Holy Spirit as our helper and teacher, as mentioned in the Gospel. This prayer helps us seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in living a holy life.
Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit Cryptogram Worksheet
The Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit Cryptogram Worksheet helps introduce young people to these important concepts. It includes definitions and encrypted answers for each gift and fruit. This ties in with the Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, John 14:23-29, where Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, who will teach and remind us of His teachings. The worksheet reinforces the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding us towards virtues like wisdom, understanding, and peace.
Acts of the Apostles
The first reading for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, Acts 15:1-2, 22-29, provides insight into the early Church’s challenges and growth. The passage focuses on the First Council of Jerusalem, where Church leaders, including Peter and James, decided that Gentile believers should not be required to follow the Mosaic law. This decision was important for the spread of Christianity beyond Jewish communities. It highlights the importance of unity and inclusion in the Church. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the early Church’s efforts to build a diverse and unified community.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving (Psalm 67)
“A Prayer of Thanksgiving,” based on Psalm 67, expresses gratitude to God for His blessings and asks for His light and guidance. This prayer reflects the responsorial psalm for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, emphasizing God’s goodness and the joy it brings to the world. It calls for all nations to recognize and serve God, trusting in His fairness and justice. By letting God’s goodness shine through us, we help others see His greatness. This prayer reminds us to always give thanks and praise to God for His endless blessings.
Understanding the Book of Revelation
Understanding the Book of Revelation can be challenging, but it offers a vision of hope and God’s glory. The second reading for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23, describes Jerusalem shining with God’s glory, with twelve gates and foundations named after the tribes of Israel and apostles. It shows that God and the Lamb are the temple and light of the city. This vision reminds us that every Eucharistic celebration connects heaven and earth, inviting us to experience God’s presence and light.
Resources for the Gospel of John
The Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, John 14:23-29, is part of Jesus’ Last Supper discourse. In this passage, Jesus speaks about his departure, the coming of the Holy Spirit, and the need for his disciples to love one another. He promises that the Holy Spirit will teach and remind them of his teachings. This section highlights the importance of belief in Jesus, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the centrality of love in Christian life. Understanding and embracing these teachings help us grow closer to God and share His love with others.
Homilies and Reflections for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
Sunday May 25, 2025
Obeying God’s Word
In his reflection for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, Jeff Cavins discusses Jesus’ words in John 14 about the connection between loving Him and obeying His word. He emphasizes that as Catholics, we must value both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. Cavins encourages us to delve deeper into these sources to understand God’s will. He also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and teaching us, both individually and as a Church. The reading from Acts shows the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the early Church, giving us confidence in our faith through Apostolic succession.
Council of Jerusalem
In his reflection for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, Scott Hahn discusses the significance of the Council of Jerusalem from the First Reading. The council decided that Gentile converts did not need to follow Jewish ritual laws, shaping the Church as a universal family of God. Hahn highlights the Church’s four marks: One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic. The Church is united in its teachings, guided by the Holy Spirit, universal in its mission, and founded on the Apostles. This reflection emphasizes that the Church, led by the Holy Spirit, ensures true teaching and remains a source of confidence for believers.
The Holy Spirit in the Life of the Church
Bishop Robert Barron, in his homily for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, discusses the early Church’s handling of controversies in Acts 15. He explains how the Holy Spirit guided the apostles to resolve issues about following Jewish law. This early instance of Church deliberation shows that the Holy Spirit guides the Church’s formal decisions. Bishop Barron highlights the Church as a living organism, constantly adapting while maintaining essential beliefs and structures. This balance between change and stability is crucial for the Church’s life and mission.
More Thoughts for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we reflect on the significant role of the Holy Spirit in our faith journey. We can explore how the Holy Spirit guided the early Christians, continues to guide the Church, and assures us of God’s constant presence. These insights help us understand the enduring impact of Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit and its relevance in our lives today.
The Ever-Present Advocate
After the Ascension, Jesus no longer appeared to the early Christians in physical form. However, they still witnessed mighty works and experienced God’s presence through the Holy Spirit. This shows that Jesus continued His work through the “Advocate” He promised. The Holy Spirit is the outpouring of God’s perfect love, allowing the early Christians to encounter and experience this love.
Jesus often spoke of the Father’s love and taught His disciples how to live according to it. This love became present to the first Christians through the Holy Spirit. Despite facing persecution, they found peace and strength in the presence of the Holy Spirit. It was this divine love that empowered them to continue Christ’s mission.
On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we are reminded of the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The same Spirit that guided and empowered the early Christians is available to us today. By embracing the Holy Spirit, we can find peace and strength to continue Christ’s mission in our own lives. Let us open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and allow God’s love to work through us.
The Guidance of the Holy Spirit
On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we reflect on how the Holy Spirit, promised by Jesus in the Gospel, guides the Church. In the first reading, we see the apostles making important decisions with the help of the Holy Spirit. This guidance was crucial in resolving issues and uniting the early Church. The Holy Spirit provided clarity and direction, helping the apostles stay true to Jesus’ teachings.
The role of the Holy Spirit didn’t end with the apostles. The Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church, offering wisdom and support to leaders and believers alike. This presence helps the Church remain faithful to the mission of Christ, even in challenging times. The decisions made by the Church are influenced by the Holy Spirit, ensuring they align with God’s will.
As we celebrate the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we are reminded to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our own lives. By opening our hearts to the Holy Spirit, we can find the strength and wisdom needed to make good decisions. Let us trust in the Holy Spirit to lead us, just as it led the apostles, and continue to guide the Church in truth and unity.
Embracing God’s Presence Everywhere
On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we learn from the second reading that there is no need for a temple because God’s presence is everywhere. This powerful message shows us that God is always with us, not confined to a specific place or building. It reassures us that we can experience God’s presence in our daily lives, wherever we are.
This idea ties in beautifully with the Gospel reading, where Jesus promises the Holy Spirit to His disciples. The Holy Spirit is God’s presence with us, guiding and comforting us. Jesus’ promise means that we are never alone; the Holy Spirit is always there to support us and help us understand God’s will.
As we reflect on the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we are encouraged to recognize the presence of God in our lives. We don’t need to go to a specific place to find God. Instead, we can feel His presence in our hearts and in the world around us. By being aware of this, we can draw strength and comfort from knowing that God is always with us through the Holy Spirit.
Let us embrace this truth and open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. In doing so, we can live our lives with the assurance that God is guiding us every step of the way. This constant presence is a source of peace and strength, helping us to navigate life’s challenges with faith and confidence.
As we reflect on the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we see how the Holy Spirit, promised by Jesus, plays a vital role in our faith. Whether guiding the early Church, offering wisdom today, or assuring us of God’s constant presence, the Holy Spirit remains our Advocate. Let us embrace the Holy Spirit in our lives, finding peace, strength, and guidance in every step of our journey.
Prayer
Holy Spirit, guide us and fill our hearts with your love. Help us to follow your will and stay true to Jesus’ teachings. Be our comfort and strength in all we do. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
- How do you experience the Holy Spirit in your daily life?
- What does it mean to you that God’s presence is everywhere?
- How can you open your heart more to the guidance of the Holy Spirit?
- In what ways does the Holy Spirit help you make decisions?
- How does understanding the Holy Spirit’s role in the early Church inspire you?
- What steps can you take to feel more connected to God’s presence?
- How can you share the love of the Holy Spirit with others?
- What challenges do you face in recognizing the Holy Spirit’s guidance?
- How does the Holy Spirit help you find peace in difficult times?
- How can you incorporate the teachings of the Holy Spirit into your actions and choices?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
Music Suggestions for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
Sunday May 25, 2025
These music selections for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C focus on themes of unity, peace, and guidance from the Holy Spirit. Some songs celebrate the presence of God in our lives, reminding us that He is always with us. Others focus on the peace Jesus promises, helping us find calm and comfort. Several selections encourage us to walk in the light of Christ, showing our love through our actions. There are also songs that inspire gratitude and thanksgiving, as well as hymns that call us to spread the message of peace and unity within our community and the world.
- Come, Christians, Join to Sing
- Come, Holy Ghost
- Creator Spirit, by Whose Aid
- Dona Nobis Pacem
- Dwelling Place
- For the Healing of the Nations
- Forth in the Peace of Christ We Go
- How Great Is Our God/How Great Thou Art
- I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light
- Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
- Let There Be Peace on Earth
- Love One Another
- Now Thank We All Our God
- Peace
- Peace I Leave with You
- Peace My Friend
- Peace My Friends
- Peace Is Flowing like a River
- Psalm 67: O God, Let All the Nations
- Revelation Song
- Sacred Silence
- Salvation Belongs to Our God
- Send Us Your Spirit
- Sing Out, Earth and Skies
- Sing with All the Saints in Glory
- Though Not Seeing You
- You Are Mine
- You Are the Light
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections and find those that resonate most with their congregation. Try these songs and consider sharing your own suggestions in the comments. Let’s come together to create a beautiful and meaningful worship experience for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C.
Questions and Answers for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C
What date is the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C?
The next date is Sunday May 25, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
6th Sunday of Easter Year A
6th Sunday of Easter Year B
What are the Mass readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C?
The Mass readings for Sunday May 25, 2025 are:
First Reading – Acts 15:1-2, 22-29: The Jerusalem Council’s Decision
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 67: Praise from All Nations
Second Reading – Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23: The Vision of the Holy City
Gospel – John 14:23-29: The Promise of the Holy Spirit
Why did the apostles discuss circumcision in Acts 15?
In Acts 15, some people said Gentile believers needed circumcision. The apostles met to decide if this was necessary for all Christians. This shows us the importance of discussing and resolving disagreements in the Church.
What does Acts 15:28 mean by the Holy Spirit guiding the apostles?
The Holy Spirit helped the apostles make decisions for the early Church. It teaches us that we should pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our lives too.
How can we apply the lesson of unity from Acts 15 to our lives?
We can work towards unity by listening to others and seeking common ground. This helps us build a stronger community of faith.
What is the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21?
The New Jerusalem is a vision of the future where God lives with His people. It represents the hope and promise of being with God forever.
Why is there no temple in the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21?
There is no temple because God’s presence fills the city. This shows that God is always with us, not just in a specific place.
What does Jesus mean by keeping His word in John 14?
Jesus means we show our love for Him by following His teachings. When we obey Jesus, we grow closer to Him.
What kind of peace does Jesus give in John 14?
Jesus gives a peace that calms our hearts and minds. This peace is different from what the world offers and helps us stay calm even in tough times.
How can the vision of the New Jerusalem inspire us?
The vision of the New Jerusalem reminds us of our future hope with God. It encourages us to live faithfully, knowing that God has a wonderful plan for us.
What does the Holy Spirit’s guidance mean for us today?
The Holy Spirit’s guidance means we should pray and seek God’s will in our decisions. Trusting the Holy Spirit helps us make wise choices.
How does Jesus’ promise of peace affect our daily lives?
Jesus’ promise of peace helps us stay calm and trust in Him. It reminds us that no matter what happens, Jesus is with us, offering His peace.
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