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6th Sunday of Easter Year C

Sunday May 21, 2028

Peace That Stays With Us

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year C reminds us that Jesus wants us to live in peace. He tells His friends that the Holy Spirit will guide them and help them remember all He said. This promise gave them hope when He returned to the Father. It still gives us hope today.

In the readings for this Sunday, we see how the early Church learned to live out that peace. The apostles made choices that welcomed others instead of creating walls. They trusted the Holy Spirit to help them find the right path. Their example shows how faith grows stronger through unity and care.

The Gospel tells us that peace is Jesus’ gift to us. It is not the same as the world’s peace. His peace stays with us even when life is hard. On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we are reminded to listen to the Spirit and let this peace guide our words and actions every day.

Mass Readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C

  • 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.

Lectionary Reference: 57

The readings above are for lectionary cycle C. For other years see the links below:
6th Sunday of Easter Year A
6th Sunday of Easter Year B

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.

Resources for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C

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: Mercy and Inclusion

In Acts, the early Church learns how to live the Gospel in a growing, diverse community. This reading shows the apostles deciding that faith in Christ, not following old laws, makes one part of God’s people. The Church chooses mercy and unity instead of division. This moment reflects how Acts celebrates the spread of the Gospel to all nations.

This passage also shows the apostles’ trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance. They send messengers with their decision, showing a Church built on discernment and cooperation. On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we see the Church living out Christ’s message of peace through shared understanding.

Learn more about the Acts of the Apostles.

Psalm 67: Praise That Reaches the Nations

Psalm 67 celebrates God’s blessing and His desire for all people to know His ways. It shows the link between Israel’s joy and the hope that every nation will praise God. This psalm fits within the Book of Psalms as a song of mission and gratitude, reminding us that God’s goodness is meant to be shared.

The psalmist’s vision points to a world shaped by justice and joy under God’s rule. On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, it echoes the Church’s mission to spread Christ’s light everywhere.

Explore more reflections on Psalm 67.

See a contemporary prayer based on Psalm 67.

The Book of Revelation: The City of God’s Light

Revelation reveals a vision of hope and renewal. This passage shows the new Jerusalem, symbolizing God’s eternal dwelling with His people. The beauty and order of the city reflect God’s faithfulness to His covenant and His plan to unite all creation. Its foundations honor both Israel and the apostles, showing the fullness of salvation history.

There is no temple in this city because God and the Lamb are its center. Light flows from their presence, showing that true holiness and peace come from God alone. On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we glimpse the joy of heaven already breaking into the world.

Discover more about the Book of Revelation.

The Gospel of John: Peace from the Father and Son

In John’s Gospel, Jesus prepares His followers for His return to the Father. This passage comes from His farewell discourse, where He promises the Holy Spirit will teach and strengthen them. It reflects the Gospel’s focus on love, faith, and unity between God and His people. Jesus’ peace is His lasting gift to His disciples.

This peace is not freedom from trouble but trust in God’s plan. Jesus reminds them that His words are life and truth, given through the Spirit. On the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, we are reminded to live with calm hearts, confident in the Spirit’s guidance.

Read more about the Gospel of John.

Homilies and Commentaries for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C

Pillar and Foundation: Says Who?

In his homily for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about an important question: is the Church optional? He explains how some people ask if something is from the Bible or “just from the Church,” as if the Church’s teaching is less important. Fr. Mike Schmitz points to Acts 15, where the apostles gathered to answer a major question about salvation. Jesus had not given a clear answer on that topic, but the Church, through the apostles, made a decision that still stands today.

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that the Bible does not teach “Bible alone” as the only authority. Instead, it shows that both Scripture and Tradition are needed. He highlights 2 Thessalonians 2:15, where Paul tells believers to hold fast to both written and spoken teachings. The Church, especially the Catholic Church, is not a side option—it is God’s plan for salvation and the foundation of truth for all followers of Jesus.

The Holy Spirit Will Teach You Everything

The readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C focus on the Holy Spirit. Jesus tells his disciples that the Spirit will teach and guide them. Bishop Barron explains how the Holy Spirit helps us understand God’s word over time. He says truth grows like a river or tree—it changes to stay alive and true. Ideas deepen through reflection, conversation, and the Spirit’s help.

Bishop Barron points to the first Church council in Acts. The early Christians talked, prayed, and decided together with the Spirit’s guidance. He says Church history is full of these moments where the Spirit leads the Church into truth. The second reading from Revelation shows the final goal: the New Jerusalem, where all is complete. But we’re not there yet. We live in a time of growth, led by the Holy Spirit.

Mismatched Socks

In the Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C, Jesus offers his peace—not like the world gives, but a deep peace from God. Sr. Mary Ellen Green reflects on this gift as something we all long for. She shares a story of a man who wore mismatched socks until there is world peace, reminding us how much people hope for peace.

Sr. Mary Ellen explains that true peace starts within. It comes from the Holy Spirit, who fills us with love and calm. This peace removes fear and brings us closer to others. It guides us and helps us trust that we are never alone. Peace is not just a dream, but a promise from God. We are called to live it out, starting with ourselves. As the song says, “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.”

God’s Gift for You Today

The Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C speaks of love, peace, and the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises that if we love Him and follow His word, He and the Father will dwell with us. He gives us peace—not like the world gives—and tells us not to let our hearts be troubled or afraid. He promises the Holy Spirit will teach us everything and remind us of His words.

Matthew Kelly invites us to open our hearts and ask the Holy Spirit to guide us each day. He encourages us to listen for one word or idea from the Gospel and let it stir something in us. He reflects on how we often lose our sense of peace in a busy world, but Jesus still offers it. The question is whether we will let Him give us peace again through prayer, silence, and trust.

A City Beyond Walls

The reading for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C shows a vision of the new Jerusalem, full of beauty and light. The city is described with jewels, gold, and gates named after the tribes of Israel. Its foundation honors the apostles. Most important, there is no temple building in the city. God and the Lamb are its temple.

Fr. Greg Friedman shares the insight of Fr. Steven Doyle, saying that the vision speaks to hearts broken by the loss of the temple in Jerusalem. He reminds us that churches are special places, full of memories and meaning. But the real Church is not a building. It is the people gathered in Jesus’ name, wherever they are. As churches close or merge, this vision gives hope. The living Church goes on wherever faith, word, and love are alive.

The Heavenly City

Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C focuses on the end of the Book of Revelation, highlighting the vision of the new Jerusalem. He explains that the Bible, carefully assembled by the Church, reaches its climax with this vision of the heavenly city. This city symbolizes the union of heaven and earth, where God’s glory shines and the whole community is rightly ordered. The new Jerusalem is not just a place but represents the fulfillment of God’s plan, where everything is aligned with His will and becomes a place of perfect praise.

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.

Reflection 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?

Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C

If you would like an image to be made available as a specific product (card, poster, mug, etc.) or as an extra high resolution image for personal use just post a comment about what you want and we will create a link to our online store for you.

Spirit of Peace and Light

This image for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C captures the promise of Jesus in John 14:23-29. The dove reminds us of the Holy Spirit, who brings peace and teaches us to remember Christ’s words.

Use this artwork in your parish bulletin, newsletter, or youth ministry materials to reflect on the gift of peace and the presence of the Spirit in our lives.

Paid subscribers may download a large copy this digital artwork without watermarks, suitable for use in bulletins, social media, newsletters, etc., free of charge by clicking here. You must be logged in as a paid subscriber to access the file.

Only current paid subscribers have the rights to use the artwork.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.

Music Suggestions for the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C

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.

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

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.

Guided by the Spirit

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year C helps us see how God works through the Holy Spirit to guide the Church and our lives. The readings remind us of the importance of listening to the Spirit, trusting in God’s presence, and following Jesus’ teachings. These lessons encourage us to stay close to God in all that we do.

The first reading shows how the early Church relied on the Holy Spirit to solve disagreements and stay united. The apostles prayed and listened to the Spirit, helping them make good decisions. This reminds us that the Holy Spirit can guide us, too, when we face hard choices.

The Gospel highlights Jesus’ promise to send the Holy Spirit. Jesus calls the Spirit our Advocate, always with us to guide and comfort us. This promise assures us that God’s presence is not limited to a place but is everywhere we go.

The second reading speaks of the New Jerusalem, where God is always present, and there is no need for a temple. This shows us that God is not confined to buildings or rituals. He is with us in our everyday lives, offering peace and strength.

The 6th Sunday of Easter Year C reminds us to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and peace. By trusting in the Spirit, we can face challenges with faith and live out Jesus’ teachings with confidence.

Your Turn

Take some time to think about the lessons from the 6th Sunday of Easter Year C. How has the Holy Spirit guided you in your life? What moments have reminded you of God’s constant presence?

We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your reflections and experiences in the comment section below. Let’s learn from one another and grow together in faith.

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