33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

• First Reading – Malachi 3:19-20A: A fierce day will consume the arrogant and wicked, says the Lord. But those who honor Him will see the healing sun of righteousness rise.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 98: Celebrate the LORD with music, for He comes to govern the earth and its peoples with justice and fairness.
• Second Reading – 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12: We worked hard among you as an example to follow. We taught that one must work to eat and advised against idleness and meddling.
• Gospel – Luke 21:5-19: Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple and describes future trials, including wars, natural disasters, and persecution. He promises divine wisdom for their defense and assures preservation for those who endure.

The 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C calls us to reflect on our actions and the end times. The readings remind us of the importance of staying faithful and diligent.

• Judgment Day: Malachi speaks of a fierce day when the arrogant and wicked will be punished. This day will bring justice and healing for those who honor God.
• Hard Work: In 2 Thessalonians, Paul emphasizes the value of hard work. He warns against idleness and encourages everyone to earn their keep.
• Future Trials: Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple and describes future hardships. He speaks of wars, disasters, and persecution that followers will face.
• Faithfulness in Persecution: Jesus promises to give wisdom to those who are persecuted for their faith. He assures them that they will be preserved if they endure these trials.
• Endurance: Endurance is highlighted in the Gospel as necessary for salvation. Those who stand firm in their faith will be saved.

The readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C encourage us to remain faithful and diligent in our work and faith. They remind us that despite the trials we face, God’s justice and healing will prevail.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C.

Scary Stuff – A Lesson Plan on the Second Coming

This lesson plan on Luke 21:5-19, for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, helps youth understand that the second coming of Christ is not something to fear, but we must be prepared. Jesus describes alarming events, but reassures believers that these signs mean our redemption is near. The Catechism teaches that the righteous will reign with Christ in a renewed universe, free from suffering and evil. This lesson encourages youth to live in a way that prepares them for Christ’s return by embracing the Church and sacraments. Get this free lesson plan here.

The Shaking of Three Worlds

Bishop Robert Barron explains the true meaning of “apocalypse” for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. He clarifies that apocalypse means unveiling, not the end of the world. Through the Resurrection of Jesus, the old religious, political, and natural orders are shaken. The temple, the political power of Rome, and even the natural reality of death are all overturned. The Resurrection reveals that Jesus is Lord, reshaping our understanding of religion, politics, and nature. This unveiling challenges us to reorient our lives to Christ.

Endings and Beginnings

In his reflection for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Jeff Cavins discusses the end times and the transition from the old to the new covenant. He highlights Malachi’s prophecy about the day of judgment and Jesus’ predictions of the temple’s destruction and persecution in Luke 21. Cavins emphasizes that believers should not fear but see this as a time to bear witness. He encourages us to trust that God will give us the words to speak and to be sources of healing and hope in the world.

Today is the Day

In his reflection for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Scott Hahn discusses the time between Jesus’ first and second comings. He highlights Malachi’s warning about the Day of the Lord and Jesus’ caution against false prophets. Hahn explains that the signs of the end times—famines, earthquakes, and persecution—are patterns for the Church’s life. Believers should persevere like the Apostles and joyfully proclaim the Lord’s coming. In the Eucharist, Jesus comes again as a sign and pledge of the Day to come.

The Lesser-Known Last Judgment

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains the difference between particular and final judgment for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. He discusses how, at our death, we face particular judgment based on our choices and relationship with God. The final judgment reveals how our lives fit into God’s plan, showing the impact of our actions. Fr. Mike highlights that we will fully know ourselves and each other, with no room for pride or shame, only joy. He encourages us to keep saying “yes” to God’s grace and trust in His plan.

Not One Stone Upon Another

Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the end times for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. He explains that as we near the end of the liturgical year, the readings focus on ultimate things. In Luke 21, Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple, symbolizing that nothing in this world lasts. We are reminded not to place our ultimate trust in worldly things but in God. Barron highlights that reorienting our lives to God will bring internal and external struggles. True followers of Christ should expect opposition when they prioritize God over worldly values.

What Remains?

Bishop Robert Barron discusses the apocalyptic readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. He explains that “apocalypse” means unveiling, revealing that we should not rely on worldly things for ultimate security. Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple, symbolizing that all earthly institutions, political powers, nature, and even our own bodies will eventually fade away. True security is found in persevering with the Gospel and clinging to Christ. Barron emphasizes that while everything else may fail, Christ remains constant, linking us to God’s eternity. Malachi’s prophecy assures us of God’s justice and healing for those who fear His name.

God’s Justice

The readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C remind us of God’s justice. Malachi tells us about a fierce day when the arrogant and wicked will be punished. This shows that God sees everything and will bring justice.

Those who honor God will see the sun of righteousness rise with healing. This means that living a good life will bring blessings. God rewards those who stay faithful.

This reading encourages us to live justly and honor God. It reminds us that our actions have consequences. We should always strive to do good.

The Value of Hard Work

In 2 Thessalonians, Paul talks about the importance of working hard. He says that they worked hard to be an example. Paul teaches that everyone should work and not be idle.

Idleness leads to trouble and meddling. Paul advises against being lazy. Instead, we should be productive and contribute to our community.

This reading for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C highlights the dignity of work. It shows that hard work is pleasing to God. We should avoid idleness and always strive to be useful.

Facing Future Trials

The Gospel from Luke talks about the destruction of the temple. Jesus warns of future trials like wars and disasters. These events can be scary, but Jesus tells us not to be afraid.

Jesus also mentions that his followers will face persecution. He promises to give them wisdom to defend themselves. This shows that Jesus is always with us, even in hard times.

The Gospel for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C teaches us about endurance. Jesus assures that those who stand firm will be saved. We must stay strong in our faith, no matter what happens.

Endurance and Salvation

Endurance is a key theme in these readings. Jesus tells us that those who endure will be saved. This means that staying faithful is very important.

When we face trials, we should remember Jesus’ promise. He will give us the strength and wisdom we need. Our faith will help us endure anything.

The readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C encourage us to be faithful and diligent. They remind us that God’s justice and reward are certain. We must remain steadfast in our faith and actions.

Prayer

Lord, help us stay faithful and diligent in our work and faith. Give us strength to endure trials and wisdom to face challenges. May we always trust in Your justice and blessings. Amen.

• How can I live more justly in my daily life?
• What are some ways I can honor God in my actions?
• How does my work reflect my faith?
• Am I avoiding idleness and being productive?
• How can I contribute more to my community?
• What trials am I currently facing, and how can I endure them with faith?
• How does Jesus’ promise of wisdom and strength comfort me?
• In what ways can I strengthen my faith?
• How do these readings change my understanding of justice and reward?
• How can I encourage others to stay faithful and diligent?

For the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, the themes of perseverance, hope, and God’s protection stand out. We can use uplifting and hopeful songs that inspire faith and trust in God. Music that speaks of God’s constant presence and the promise of His coming Kingdom fits well. Songs with strong, encouraging lyrics and a mix of traditional and contemporary styles can help the congregation feel connected and hopeful.

• All the Ends of the Earth
• All the Earth Proclaim the Lord
• At The Sound
• Blessed Be Your Name
• Bring Forth the Kingdom
• Everlasting God
• Glorious
• How Can I Keep from Singing
• I Know You Are Near
• I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light
• In the Day of the Lord
• Just Like You
• Lord, Every Nation
• Lord of All Hopefulness
• Love Divine All Loves Excelling
• Prayer of Abandonment
• Send Down the Fire
• Stand By Me
• Shelter Me O God
• Soon and Very Soon
• The King Shall Come When Morning Comes
• Wait for the Lord
• With One Voice

Music directors and musicians, try out these suggested songs and see how they fit with your community. Feel free to share your own music selections and experiences in the comments. Let’s enrich our worship together with the gift of music.

What date is the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The next date is Sunday November 16, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

What are the Mass readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday November 16, 2025 are:
First Reading – Malachi 3:19-20A: Day of Judgment
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 98: Just Rule Coming
Second Reading – 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12: Work and Conduct
Gospel – Luke 21:5-19: End Times Warning

What does Malachi mean by a “fierce day” in the first reading for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

Malachi speaks about a day when the arrogant and wicked will be punished. It means that God will bring justice to those who do wrong.

Who are the “arrogant and wicked” in Malachi’s reading?

The arrogant and wicked are those who do not follow God’s ways. They live without considering God’s commandments.

What is the “sun of righteousness” in Malachi’s reading?

The “sun of righteousness” represents God’s blessing and healing for those who honor Him. It means that good people will receive God’s favor.

Why does Paul talk about working hard in the second reading for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

Paul wants to show that working hard is important. He says that everyone should work and not be lazy.

What does Paul mean by idleness?

Idleness means being lazy and not doing any work. Paul warns that idleness can lead to trouble and meddling in others’ affairs.

Why does Jesus predict the destruction of the temple in Luke’s Gospel?

Jesus wants to prepare His followers for future events. He tells them about the temple’s destruction to show that difficult times are coming.

What kind of trials does Jesus talk about in the Gospel for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

Jesus talks about wars, natural disasters, and persecution. These trials are meant to test the faith of His followers.

How can we endure the trials mentioned in the Gospel?

We can endure by staying strong in our faith. Jesus promises to give us wisdom and strength to face these challenges.

What does it mean to “stand firm” in our faith?

To “stand firm” means to remain faithful to God even in hard times. It means not giving up on our beliefs.

How do the readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C apply to our lives?

The readings teach us to be just, work hard, and stay faithful. They remind us that God’s justice and rewards are certain, and we must endure trials with faith.