The Letter to the Hebrews

The Letter to the Hebrews is one of the books in the New Testament. We don’t know who wrote it. Originally people thought it was St. Paul, but now many think it could have been someone else. The writer does not say who they are, but they clearly knew the Old Testament very well and had a strong faith in Jesus.

Hebrews was written to help Jewish Christians. Many of them were struggling with their faith. Some were thinking of going back to the old ways, like the Law of Moses. This letter was meant to help them stay strong. It reminded them that Jesus is greater than anything that came before.

The writer shows how Jesus completes the promises made in the Old Testament. He talks about priests, sacrifices, and worship. All of these things now point to Jesus. Jesus is the great high priest who offers the perfect sacrifice once and for all.

This letter encourages people to trust Jesus. It reminds them that faith is about more than just rules. Faith means following Jesus with courage. It calls people to keep going, even when life is hard.

The Letter to the Hebrews was written a long time ago, probably before the year 70. That was when the Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed. The writer talks about sacrifices as if the Temple is still standing. So it was likely written before that happened.

We don’t know who wrote Hebrews. The letter does not say. Some early Christians thought it was St. Paul, but the style is very different. It sounds like someone else. The writer knew the Old Testament very well. He also knew how to explain things clearly to Jewish believers.

The people who first read this letter were likely Jewish Christians. Many were going through hard times. Some were being left out or treated badly. Some were thinking about giving up their faith. The writer wanted to encourage them to keep going.

This letter helped them remember who Jesus is. He is greater than angels, Moses, and the high priests. The old ways were good, but Jesus brings something better. The writer wanted them to trust that and hold on.

The Letter to the Hebrews reads more like a sermon than a letter. It does not start like a normal letter. It jumps right into talking about Jesus. It sounds like someone preaching to a group, trying to help them stay strong in faith.

The writing is clear, but also full of strong pictures and stories. The writer often uses ideas from the Old Testament. He talks about priests, sacrifices, the tabernacle, and even heroes like Abraham and Moses. These pictures help explain how Jesus fits into the big story of God’s people.

Sometimes the language feels like poetry. There are rich phrases that stand out. The writer repeats ideas to make them stick. He also uses questions and warnings to get the reader’s attention.

This mix of preaching and poetry makes Hebrews stand out. It teaches deep truth in a simple but powerful way. It helps people see Jesus more clearly and trust him more deeply.

Hebrews has many important themes that connect with Catholic teaching. These ideas help us understand who Jesus is and how we should live.

Here are some of the main themes:

• Jesus is the great high priest. He stands between us and God. He offers himself as the one perfect sacrifice.
• The old sacrifices are now finished. We don’t need animal offerings anymore. Jesus gave his life once for all.
• Faith means trusting even when life is hard. Hebrews gives examples of people who kept going, like Abraham and Moses.
• The Mass reminds us of Jesus’ sacrifice. Every time we go to Mass, we remember what he did. This connects to the letter’s focus on worship.
• We are part of a holy family. The Church is the body of believers. We are called to grow in faith and stay strong together.

These themes are still part of our life today. They remind us to trust Jesus, take part in the sacraments, and stay close to the Church. Hebrews helps us see how Jesus leads us now, just as he did then.

The Letter to the Hebrews is made up of different parts. Each part has a purpose. Some sections teach. Others encourage. Some give warnings. Below is a simple way to look at how the letter is divided.

• Hebrews 1:1–4:13 – Jesus is greater than the angels and Moses. The writer tells us to listen to him and not harden our hearts.
• Hebrews 4:14–7:28 – Jesus is the great high priest. He is like Melchizedek, a priest from long ago. He is holy and never fails.
• Hebrews 8:1–10:18 – Jesus brings a new covenant. He gives a better way through his sacrifice. He replaces the old way of offering animals.
• Hebrews 10:19–12:29 – The letter calls us to keep going. It gives many examples of faith. These people trusted God even when it was hard.
• Hebrews 13:1–25 – Final advice and a blessing. The writer tells us to live with love, respect, and faith.

Each part of Hebrews builds on the one before it. The message is clear: trust Jesus, follow him, and don’t give up.

Even though Hebrews was written a long time ago, it still speaks to us today. Life can be hard, just like it was for the early Christians. Sometimes we feel tired, confused, or ready to give up. Hebrews tells us to hold on and trust Jesus.

This letter reminds us that Jesus understands us. He knows what it means to suffer. He walked the same path we walk. He is close to us when we pray. He helps us when we are weak.

Hebrews also helps us see the meaning of the Mass. Jesus gave his life for us. Every time we go to Mass, we remember that gift. We also hear the call to live with faith and love.

Finally, Hebrews shows us we are not alone. We belong to a family of believers. Others have gone before us. They kept the faith. Now it’s our turn to run the race and keep going.

The Letter to the Hebrews is read at Mass many times during the year. It is part of the Roman Catholic lectionary. This means it is one of the books chosen for readings at liturgies.

Hebrews shows up often on weekdays, especially during Ordinary Time. It is read in a row over several days. These weekday readings help us learn more about Jesus as our high priest and the meaning of faith.

Parts of Hebrews are also read on Sundays. Hebrews is also used during Lent and Holy Week. It reminds us of Jesus’ suffering and how he gave his life for us. These readings help prepare our hearts for Easter.

When we hear Hebrews at Mass, it invites us to trust Jesus, stay strong, and live with faith. Click on a link below for more information about a specific reading.

The Nativity of the Lord: Christmas

God Speaks Through His Son

In Hebrews 1:1-6, we are reminded that God used to speak through the prophets. Now He speaks through His Son. Jesus is the one who shows us what God is really like. He made the world and holds it together. He is greater than the angels.

This reading is used at Christmas because it helps us understand who Jesus truly is. He is not just a baby in a manger. He is God’s Son, full of glory. He came to save us and bring us close to the Father. His birth is the beginning of something new.

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Jesus Shares Our Life

In Hebrews 2:9-11, we hear that Jesus suffered and died so that we could have life. He was made lower than the angels for a time. He did this to bring many people to glory. His death was not a failure but part of God’s plan to save us.

Jesus is not ashamed to call us his brothers and sisters. He became like us so he could lead us back to God. His suffering connects him to our struggles. He understands what it means to hurt, and he walks with us.

The Presentation of the Lord

Jesus Knows What We Face

In Hebrews 2:14-18, we learn that Jesus became fully human to save us. He took on our flesh and blood so he could break the power of death. He came to free people who were afraid and trapped by sin and fear all their lives.

Because Jesus shared in our struggles, he can help us. He knows what it feels like to suffer and be tempted. He did not come to help angels, but to help people. Now he stands with us, as a merciful and faithful high priest, always ready to give us strength.

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

God’s Word Sees Everything

In Hebrews 4:12-13, we are reminded that God’s word is alive and full of power. It can reach deep into our hearts. It shows us what is true. Nothing is hidden from God. He sees all things clearly.

This reading tells us that we cannot hide our thoughts or actions from God. His word helps us know what is right and wrong. It also helps us grow and change. God sees everything, but He also cares for us. He watches over us with love and truth.

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Jesus Understands Us

In Hebrews 4:14-16, we are told to hold on to our faith because Jesus is our great high priest. He has gone into heaven and stands with God for us. He knows our struggles and has felt our weakness.

Jesus was tempted like we are, but he did not sin. That is why we can go to him with confidence. We can ask for help when we need it. He offers mercy and strength, especially when we feel weak or afraid.

Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion

Jesus Prays, Suffers, and Saves

In Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9, we are reminded that Jesus is our great high priest. He understands our pain and weakness. He has been through suffering and struggle, just like us. That’s why we can come to him with trust and ask for help.

Jesus prayed with tears during his suffering. He learned through obedience and gave his life to save us. Because of this, he became the source of life for all who follow him. On Good Friday, we remember this gift and thank him for staying with us, even in pain.

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Chosen to Serve

In Hebrews 5:1-6, we learn that a high priest is chosen to help people in their relationship with God. The priest offers gifts and sacrifices for sins. He understands the weakness of others because he has weaknesses too. That’s why he also offers sacrifice for himself.

Jesus did not choose this role for himself. God called him, just like he called others before. He was named a priest in the line of Melchizedek, which means his priesthood is special and lasts forever. Jesus was chosen by God to bring us back to him.

5th Sunday of Lent Year B

Learning Through Suffering

In Hebrews 5:7-9, we see Jesus praying with cries and tears during his time on earth. He turned to God in his suffering and was heard because he trusted completely. Even though he is the Son, he still learned through what he went through.

By obeying fully, even in pain, Jesus became the source of salvation for all who follow him. His suffering was not wasted. It was part of his mission to save us. He shows us how to trust God, even when life is hard.

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Jesus Is the Perfect Priest

In Hebrews 7:23-28, we learn that old priests died and had to be replaced. But Jesus lives forever. He never needs to be replaced. He is always there to speak for us before God.

Jesus is holy and blameless. He does not need to offer sacrifices for himself like other priests did. He offered himself once, for all people, and that was enough. His priesthood is perfect and lasting. He is the priest we can always trust.

Corpus Christi Year B

A Better Offering

In Hebrews 9:11-15, we hear that Jesus is the high priest of the good things to come. He entered a better and greater place of worship. It was not made by human hands. He did not bring the blood of animals. He brought his own blood.

This offering was once and for all. It cleanses us deep inside. It sets us free from sin so we can serve God. Jesus brings a new promise between God and his people. Through his death, we are forgiven and given new life.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Once for All

In Hebrews 9:24-28, we learn that Jesus did not enter a man-made temple. He went into heaven itself to stand before God for us. He does not offer himself again and again like the old priests did.

Jesus offered himself once to take away our sins. He will come again, not to suffer, but to bring salvation to those who wait for him. His one sacrifice was enough. Now we wait with hope for his return.

Ascension of the Lord Year C

Jesus Opens the Way

In Hebrews 9:24-28; 10:19-23, we are reminded that Jesus entered heaven to stand before God for us. He offered himself once to take away sin. Now we wait for him to return and bring full salvation to those who follow him.

Because of Jesus, we can come close to God with confidence. He opened the way through his body and blood. We are called to stay strong in faith, keep our hope, and trust in God’s promises. Jesus is in heaven, and he leads the way for us.

4th Sunday of Advent Year C

Doing God’s Will

In Hebrews 10:5-10, we learn that Jesus came into the world to do God’s will. God no longer wanted animal sacrifices. Instead, Jesus offered himself.

By doing this, Jesus made us holy. His one offering was enough. On this Sunday when we remember the Visitation, it reminds us that Jesus came to serve, not with words alone, but with his whole life. Mary also said yes to God’s will, just like her Son.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

One Sacrifice, Forever

In Hebrews 10:11-14, 18, we are told that old priests stood every day, offering the same sacrifices over and over. But those could not fully take away sins. Jesus, however, offered one perfect sacrifice and then sat down at God’s right hand.

His one offering made people holy and clean. There is no need for more sacrifices. God forgives, and there is no longer any need to offer again for sins that are already forgiven. Jesus’ work is complete, and we are called to live in that grace.

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Trusting What We Cannot See

In Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19, we hear about the meaning of faith. Faith is trusting in what we hope for, even if we cannot see it. The reading gives examples of people who lived this way, like Abraham and Sarah.

Abraham followed God without knowing where he was going. He trusted God’s promise, even when it seemed impossible. Sarah believed she would have a child, even in old age. These people lived by faith and looked forward to a better home with God. Their trust shows us how to live with hope.

Feast of the Holy Family Year B

Faith in the Family

In Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19, we learn about Abraham’s trust in God. He followed God’s call, even without knowing where he was going. He believed God’s promise, and Sarah had a child, even in old age. Their faith led to a great family.

Abraham also trusted God when asked to offer Isaac. He believed God could still keep his promise. This reading is used on the Feast of the Holy Family to show how faith shapes family life. Like Abraham and Sarah, the Holy Family trusted God in every step.

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Keep Going with Jesus

In Hebrews 12:1-4, we are told to keep running the race of faith. Many others have gone before us and stayed faithful. We should leave behind anything that slows us down and keep our eyes on Jesus.

Jesus endured pain and shame because of the joy that was coming. He did not give up. When we feel tired or discouraged, we can think about what he went through. This helps us stay strong and not lose heart.

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Learning Through Struggles

In Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13, we are reminded that God teaches us through challenges. Just like a father trains his children, God allows us to grow through hard times. It may not feel good in the moment, but it helps us become stronger and better.

Later, we see the good that comes from it. Struggles can lead to peace and a better life. So we are told to keep going, lift our heads, and help others stay strong too. God is shaping us for something good.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

A New Mountain of Hope

In Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24A, we hear about two mountains. The first one was scary. It had fire, darkness, and fear. That was Mount Sinai, where God gave the law to Moses. The people were afraid to come near.

But now we come to a new mountain—Mount Zion. This one is full of joy. It is the home of angels and the faithful. Jesus is there, and his blood brings peace. This reminds us that we belong to a new covenant, full of hope and life with God.

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Selections from Hebrews are also read at weekday Masses:

• Monday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 1:1-6: The Son’s Glory and Authority
• Tuesday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 2:5-12: Humanity and Jesus’ Sacrifice
• Wednesday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 2:14-18: Jesus’ Shared Humanity and Sacrifice
• Thursday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 3:7-14: Heeding the Spirit’s Warning
• Friday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 4:1-5, 11: Urgency to Enter God’s Rest
• Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time I –  Hebrews 4:12-16: God’s Word and Jesus Our High Priest
• Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 5:1-10: Christ, the Eternal High Priest
• Tuesday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 6:10-20: Enduring Hope and God’s Promise
• Wednesday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 7:1-3, 15-17: Melchizedek’s Eternal Priesthood
• Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 7:25-8:6: Jesus, the Eternal High Priest
• Friday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 8:6-13: New Covenant of Heart and Mind
• Saturday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 9:2-3, 11-14: Christ’s Eternal Redemption
• Monday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 9:15, 24-28: Christ’s Mediatorial Sacrifice
• Tuesday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 10:1-10: Christ’s Sacrifice Supersedes the Law
• The Annunciation – Hebrews 10:4-10: The Superior Sacrifice
• Wednesday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 10:11-18: Christ’s Ultimate Sacrifice
• Thursday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 10:19-25: Hold Fast to Hope
• Friday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 10:32-39: Faith and Perseverance
• Saturday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19: Faith of the Patriarchs
• Monday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 11:32-40: Faith of the Ancients
• Tuesday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 12:1-4: Perseverance in Faith
• Wednesday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 12:4-7, 11-15: Embrace God’s Discipline
• Thursday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 12:18-19, 21-24: You’ve Come to Mount Zion
• Friday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 13:1-8: Remain Steadfast in Love
• Saturday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 13:15-17, 20-21: Offer Praise and Follow Leaders
• Saturday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time I – Hebrews 11:1-7: The Power of Faith

Jesus Is Greater, and He Calls You Family

In this episode of The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about chapters 1 through 4 of the letter to the Hebrews. He says it was likely written to Jewish Christians. These were people who knew the Old Testament well. Some of them were facing hard times. They may have been tempted to walk away from Jesus and return to their old ways.

Fr. Mike explains that the letter shows how Jesus is greater than angels. He is also greater than Moses. Jesus is not just a servant. He is the Son. He reflects God’s glory. He is one with the Father. Fr. Mike says this is how we know who Jesus really is.

Fr. Mike also says Jesus chose to suffer. He didn’t need to suffer for himself. He suffered for us. Because of this, he can help us when we suffer too. Jesus even calls us his brothers and sisters. Fr. Mike reminds us: Jesus is not ashamed of us. He made us part of his family.

Jesus Is the Forever Priest

In this episode of The Bible in a Year Podcast, reading from chapters 5 through 8 of Hebrews, Fr. Mike Schmitz explains how Jesus is our perfect high priest. He says Jesus is greater than the old priests from the tribe of Levi. Jesus didn’t come from that group. Instead, he is a priest like Melchizedek. That means his priesthood never ends.

Fr. Mike says the old priests had to offer sacrifices again and again. But Jesus offered himself once, and that was enough. Jesus is holy and without sin. He didn’t need to make a sacrifice for himself. He gave his life for us.

Fr. Mike also talks about the new covenant. He says Jesus brings us into a better promise. This new covenant is not like the old one. We belong to it now. Fr. Mike reminds us that Jesus always lives to help us. He stands with us forever.

Jesus Brings a Better Way

In this episode of The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how chapters 9 and 10 of Hebrews shows Jesus as the perfect high priest. In the old covenant, priests had to offer animal sacrifices over and over. But Jesus gave himself once, and that was enough. His sacrifice takes away sin for good.

Fr. Mike explains that when Jesus went up to heaven, he didn’t just leave. He went into the real holy place, like the high priest entering the temple. But Jesus brought something much better—his own life. That’s what the Ascension means. He went into heaven and offered himself to the Father for us.

Fr. Mike says this is why we have hope. Jesus made a way for us to come close to God. He gives us a clean heart. We don’t need to be afraid. We just need to hold on to our faith and trust in him.

Keep Running the Race

In this episode of The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how the final chapters of the letter to the Hebrews encourages us to keep going in our faith. He says we are not alone. Many saints have gone before us. They are cheering us on like a crowd at a race. Fr. Mike reminds us that we are also surrounded by others here on earth who are walking with us.

He points to Jesus as our guide. Jesus kept going, even when it was hard. He didn’t give up, and we shouldn’t either. Fr. Mike says we need to keep our eyes on Jesus, just like Peter did when he stepped out of the boat.

He also talks about God’s love. Even when we feel pain or suffering, God has not left us. He is still speaking. Fr. Mike says God wants to bring us to a better place. So don’t stop. Keep trusting. Keep walking. You are not alone.

The Bible

If you want to learn more about the Bible, there’s a great place to start. The Bible can feel big and hard to understand, but it helps to have simple tools and ideas to guide you.

This page at Young Catholics explains what the Bible is and how to use it. It’s made for teens, but adults can learn from it too. Check it out here.

Who wrote the Letter to the Hebrews?

We don’t know for sure. The writer does not give a name. Some early Christians thought it was St. Paul, but most now believe it was someone else.

Why was Hebrews written?

It was written to help Jewish Christians who were struggling. Some were thinking about going back to old ways. The letter encourages them to stay strong in their faith.

What is the main message of Hebrews?

Jesus is the great high priest. He gave his life as the perfect sacrifice. We should trust him and not give up.

Is Hebrews used in the Mass?

Yes. Hebrews is read during both Sunday and weekday Masses. It is often used in Ordinary Time and Lent.

What does Hebrews say about the Old Testament?

It shows how Jesus completes the old ways. Things like sacrifices and priests were signs that pointed to him.

The Letter to the Hebrews is a message of hope for people who feel tired or unsure. It was written for early Christians who were struggling with their faith. They came from a Jewish background and were thinking about turning back. Hebrews tells them to stay with Jesus.

This letter shows that Jesus is the great high priest. He gave his life as a perfect offering. He brings a new and better way to live with God. The old sacrifices are no longer needed. Jesus gave everything once and for all.

Hebrews also reminds us that faith means trusting even when life is hard. It tells the stories of people like Abraham, Moses, and others who followed God even when they could not see the full picture. Their stories are meant to give us courage.

This letter is still for us today. It calls us to keep going, stay close to Jesus, and live with faith, love, and hope.

Take a little time this week to read the Letter to the Hebrews. You don’t need to read it all at once. Pick a small part and sit with it. Think about what it says about Jesus and about your own faith.

Have you read Hebrews before? What part stood out to you? Share your thoughts in the comments. Your words might help someone else who is also trying to stay strong in faith.