29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

• First Reading – Exodus 17:8-13: Amalek attacked Israel. While Joshua fought, Moses stood on a hill with God’s staff. As long as Moses’ hands were raised, Israel prevailed. Aaron and Hur supported Moses’ hands, and Joshua defeated Amalek.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 121: Our help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He guards us constantly, protects us from harm, and watches over us always.
• Second Reading – 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2: Stay faithful to the Scriptures, which provide wisdom for salvation. All Scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching and training. Proclaim the word persistently, with patience and encouragement.
• Gospel – Luke 18:1-8: Jesus told a parable about a persistent widow to teach the importance of constant prayer. If an unjust judge grants justice, how much more will God respond to his chosen ones?

Lectionary Reference: 147

Upcoming dates: October 19, 2025, October 22, 2028, October 19, 2031

The 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C offers insights into perseverance, prayer, and the strength found in faith. The readings emphasize the importance of trusting in God and being persistent in our spiritual life.

• Persistence in Prayer: The Gospel of Luke shows Jesus encouraging persistent prayer through the parable of the unjust judge and the widow. This teaches that we should keep praying even when it seems difficult.
• Support in Community: In Exodus, Moses is supported by Aaron and Hur to keep his hands raised, symbolizing the power of community support. It reminds us that we need each other to sustain our faith.
• Faithful Endurance: The second reading from 2 Timothy emphasizes staying true to what we have learned and believed. It encourages us to endure hardships and be faithful to the teachings of Christ.
• Justice and Trust: The parable in the Gospel highlights the importance of seeking justice and trusting that God hears our prayers. Even when answers seem delayed, we should trust in God’s timing.
• Role of Scripture: Paul in 2 Timothy speaks about the importance of scripture in teaching and guiding believers. This reminds us of the value of the Bible in our daily lives and decision-making.
• Power of Intercession: The scene in Exodus, where Moses prays with uplifted hands, illustrates the power of intercessory prayer. It shows how praying for others can bring about God’s help and support.

The readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C remind us to be steadfast in our faith and persistent in prayer. They encourage us to trust in God’s timing and the strength found in community and scripture.

Strength in Numbers Game and Reflection Questions

The First Reading for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C (Exodus 17:8-13) shows how Moses needed help to keep his hands raised so Israel could win the battle. Aaron and Hur stood by his side, supporting him when he grew tired. This teaches that faith and perseverance are not meant to be done alone. We need the support of others to stay strong in difficult times.

The Strength in Numbers game connects with this message. It shows how working together makes challenges easier. Just like Moses needed help, we also need others in our faith journey. When we support each other, we can keep going even when things get tough. This reminds us that faith is not just personal—it grows when we help and encourage one another.

Psalm 121: My Help Comes from the Lord

You’re right to check. I should have been more careful with my wording. Let me take a moment to read the page and give you a proper response.

The Responsorial Psalm for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C (Psalm 121) reminds us that our help comes from the Lord, who is always watching over us. It speaks of God as our protector who never sleeps, never leaves us, and always keeps us safe. This psalm is a reminder to trust in God’s care, even when we face struggles.

This background information on Psalm 121 explains how the psalm reassures us that God is always present, guiding and guarding us like a watchful protector. It also reminds us that, just as travelers in biblical times looked to the hills for safety, we should lift our eyes to God when we need help. This reflection encourages us to rely on God’s strength and protection in our daily lives, just as the psalm teaches.

See a Prayer for Guidance and Protection based on Psalm 121

The Spiritual Life Is a Battle

In his homily for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Bishop Robert Barron discusses the battle between Israel and the Amalekites, interpreting it as a symbol of the spiritual struggle against sin and evil. He draws from Origen’s teachings, explaining that the enemies of Israel represent the forces of darkness.

Bishop Barron emphasizes that the spiritual life is a continuous battle, requiring the faithful to stay steadfast. He encourages unity and cooperation within the Church, with each member playing a unique role in this spiritual warfare.

Focus on Faith

In his reflection for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Jeff Cavins discusses the theme of faith, using the story of Moses and the battle against Amalek from Exodus 17.

Cavins highlights that faith is not just believing in God but being faithful in all aspects of life, such as marriage, finances, and parenting. He explains that like the Hebrew word “emunah,” faith involves steadfastness and loyalty. Cavins encourages us to be faithful in every area of our lives, especially during challenging times, relying on God’s wisdom rather than worldly advice.

Hope from on High

In his reflection for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Scott Hahn focuses on the theme of divine intercession. Hahn explains how Moses, with the help of Aaron and Hur, raised the staff of God to intercede for Israel against the Amalekites, symbolizing Christ’s ultimate intercession on the Cross. He draws a parallel between Moses’ actions and Jesus on Calvary, who intercedes for us against sin and death.

Hahn encourages us to remain faithful and persistent in prayer, trusting that God will guard us against all evil.

On the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, the readings invite us to reflect on the themes of persistence in prayer, the support of our faith community, and the importance of scripture. Through the stories of the persistent widow, Moses, and Paul’s advice to Timothy, we are encouraged to trust in God’s timing and stay faithful in our journey. These reflections will explore how these themes can be applied to our daily lives, offering guidance and hope.

The Power of Persistent Prayer

On the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, the Gospel highlights the power of persistent prayer through the parable of the persistent widow. This story teaches us that even when we feel like our prayers are unanswered, we should continue to pray and trust in God’s timing. The widow’s determination in asking the unjust judge for justice is a powerful example of how we should approach prayer with persistence and faith.

The early Christians believed that the “Day of the Lord” would come soon, ending their struggles under Roman rule. This expectation, rooted in Jewish tradition, anticipated a new world led by a king from the line of David. Jesus, however, teaches that this new world requires patience and trust in God’s timing. The persistent widow’s actions remind us that we should not lose heart when answers to our prayers are delayed.

Sometimes, we may feel discouraged when our prayers seem unanswered. It can be tempting to think that God is not listening. However, the Gospel reassures us that God hears every prayer, even if the response is not immediate. Like the widow, we must continue to pray and trust that God will bring about justice and peace in His perfect time.

The Role of Community and Patience

The First Reading from the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C highlights the importance of community support in our spiritual journey. In this reading, Moses needed help to keep his hands raised in prayer, and Aaron and Hur supported him. This story shows that we cannot sustain our faith alone; we need the support and encouragement of others in our community.

When we face difficulties or feel tired in our spiritual lives, it is important to lean on our faith community. Just as Aaron and Hur helped Moses, our friends and family can help us stay strong in faith. Being part of a community offers support, encouragement, and accountability, which are essential in maintaining our spiritual growth and perseverance.

Patience is another key theme in these readings. Often, we want quick solutions, especially when facing injustice or suffering. However, God’s timing is different from ours. We are called to trust that God is at work, even if we cannot see immediate results. This trust requires patience and faith, knowing that God’s plans are for our good.

Scripture, Action, and Hope

The Second Reading from 2 Timothy on the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C emphasizes the role of scripture in guiding our lives. Scripture is described as useful for teaching, correcting, and training in righteousness. It provides us with the knowledge and wisdom needed to navigate life’s challenges and live according to God’s will. Engaging with scripture helps us understand God’s desires for us and strengthens our faith.

The readings also remind us that prayer should lead to action. The persistent widow in the Gospel did not just pray; she actively sought justice. This teaches us that while prayer is crucial, we must also be willing to act on our prayers. We are called to work for justice, peace, and goodness in our daily lives, inspired by our faith and the teachings of scripture.

On the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we are encouraged to maintain hope and persistence in our faith journey. Even when we face challenges or delays, we can trust that God is with us and is working for our good. This hope sustains us, helping us to persevere in prayer, action, and trust in God’s ultimate plan for justice and peace.

As we reflect on the lessons from the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we are reminded of the importance of patience, community, and scripture in our spiritual journey. These readings call us to persistent prayer and active faith, trusting that God hears and responds to our needs. Let us carry these lessons with us, remaining hopeful and faithful as we navigate life’s challenges.

Prayer

Lord, help us to be persistent in our prayers and faithful in our actions. Strengthen us with the support of our community and guide us through your word. May we trust in your timing and always seek justice and peace in our lives. Amen.

• How can the example of the persistent widow inspire you to be more steadfast in your prayer life?
• In what ways can you support others in your faith community, similar to how Aaron and Hur supported Moses?
• What does patience in prayer look like for you, and how can you cultivate it?
• How does scripture help you in your daily decisions and actions?
• What challenges do you face when it comes to trusting in God’s timing?
• How can you actively work for justice and peace in your community?
• How do you respond when your prayers seem unanswered?
• What role does your faith community play in your spiritual journey?
• How can you encourage others who are struggling with their faith?
• How can you incorporate the lessons from the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C into your daily life?

The music selections for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C focus on themes of faith, trust, and reliance on God. These songs emphasize the importance of seeking God’s guidance, celebrating His creation, and finding peace in His presence. The music ranges from traditional hymns to contemporary worship songs, all highlighting God’s constant care and protection. The selections encourage us to lift our eyes to God, acknowledging Him as our help and refuge in times of need, just as the readings remind us of God’s unwavering support and faithfulness.

• All Creatures of Our God and King by Passion and David Crowder Band
• Be Still and Know and Know That I Am God by Tom Booth
• Bread of Life, Source of Peace by Craig Colson
• Came to My Rescue by Hillsong United
• Christ Be Beside Me by Laura Wasson
• Cry the Gospel by Tess
• Down to the River to Pray by Alison Krauss
• Empty and Beautiful by Matt Maher
• For the Beauty of the Earth
• Give Me Jesus by Jeremy Camp
• Good, Good Father by Chris Tomlin
• He’s Got the Whole World by Glen Campbell
• Holy God We Praise Thy Name by Michael Card
• How Can I Keep from Singing by Audrey Assad
• I Sing the Mighty Power of God by Isaac Watts, Robert E. Kreutz, William H. Monk & Randall Debruyn
• In Every Age by Janèt Sullivan Whitaker
• O God Beyond All Praising by Catholic Music Initiative
• O God Our Help in Ages Past by William Croft & Isaac Watts
• O Breathe on Me, O Breath of God by Liam Lawton & Theresa Donohoo
• Open My Eyes by Jesse Manibusen
• Our Help Is From the Lord by John Foley
• Our Help Is From the Lord – Psalm 121 by Craig Colson & Kristen Colson
• Psalm 121: Our Help Is from the Lord by Francis Patrick O’Brien
• Sacred Silence by Tom Booth
• Save Us, O Lord by the St. Louis Jesuits
• Seek Ye First by Karen Lafferty
• Shelter Me, O God by Bob Hurd & Anawim
• There Is a Longing by Anne Quigley
• This Is Amazing Grace by Phil Wickham
• To You, O God, I Lift Up My Soul by Bob Hurd
• Whom Shall I Fear, God of Angel Armies by Chris Tomlin
• Word of God, Speak by MercyMe
• Your Promises by Elevation Worship

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections and consider how they can enhance worship. These songs are meant to inspire and uplift, reflecting the themes of faith and trust found in the readings. Feel free to try these pieces and share your own song suggestions for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C in the comments, fostering a collaborative and enriching worship experience. Let’s work together to create a meaningful and joyful atmosphere in our worship services.

What date is the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The next date is Sunday October 19, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

What are the Mass readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The Mass readings for Sunday October 19, 2025 are:
First Reading – Exodus 17:8-13: Moses’ Hands and the Battle with Amalek
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 121: The Lord, Our Guardian
Second Reading – 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2: Remain Faithful and Proclaim the Word
Gospel – Luke 18:1-8: The Persistent Widow

Why did Moses need help to keep his hands raised in the first reading for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

In the reading from Exodus, Moses needed help because he got tired. His raised hands were a sign of prayer and trust in God, and Aaron and Hur helped him to show the importance of supporting each other in faith.

What role does the community play in our faith journey, according to the first reading?

The community helps support and strengthen our faith, just like Aaron and Hur helped Moses. We should support each other in our spiritual lives.

How does the story of Moses relate to our prayer life?

Moses raising his hands symbolizes persistent prayer. It shows that sometimes we need to keep praying, even when we are tired, and that having others support us can help.

Why is scripture important according to the second reading on the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

In 2 Timothy, scripture is described as useful for teaching and guiding us. It helps us to grow in faith and make good choices in our lives.

What does 2 Timothy say about enduring hardships?

2 Timothy encourages us to stay strong and keep believing in Christ, even when life is difficult. It tells us to be faithful to what we have learned.

What is the main lesson from the Gospel of Luke on the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The Gospel teaches us to be persistent in prayer. It shows that we should keep praying and not give up, even if we don’t get an answer right away.

What does the parable of the unjust judge teach us about God?

The parable in the Gospel of Luke teaches us that if an unjust judge can eventually grant justice, God, who is just and loving, will definitely hear and answer our prayers. We should trust that God listens to us.

How can we apply the lesson of persistence from these readings to our lives?

We can apply the lesson by not giving up on prayer and trust in God, even when things are tough. We should keep praying and believing that God is with us.

What is the meaning of “justice” in the context of the Gospel reading for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

In the Gospel, “justice” refers to getting what is right and fair. The widow kept asking the judge for justice, which shows we should keep praying and asking God for what we need.

Why is the widow in the Gospel an example for us?

The widow is an example of persistence and faith. She kept asking for justice, showing that we should keep praying and trusting God, even when it’s hard.