19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

• First Reading – Wisdom 18:6-9:The ancestors had foreknowledge of the Passover, giving them courage. The salvation of the just and destruction of foes were awaited.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 33: The righteous are urged to rejoice in the Lord. The people chosen by God are blessed, and the Lord's gaze is upon those who respect Him. They await His mercy and protection.
• Second Reading – Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19: Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promise led him to a foreign land, where he and his descendants flourished. Their spiritual journey symbolizes a yearning for a heavenly homeland.
• Gospel - Luke 12:32-48: Jesus reassures his disciples, urging them not to fear and reminding them that it is God's pleasure to give them the kingdom. He encourages them to prioritize heavenly treasures rather than earthly possessions. Jesus then emphasizes the importance of being faithful and watchful servants, ready for his return, as he shares a parable about a master and his servants. He highlights the rewards for those found faithfully carrying out their assigned tasks and warns against neglect and unfaithfulness, stressing the principle of accountability.

The readings for 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C advise us to be prepared for we do not know when our time to move from this world to the next will come. In the first reading speaks of how the Passover came suddenly The psalm sings of how God rescues us. In the second reading we are reminded of the promise of eternal life. In the gospel Jesus tells us to be vigilant, like servants awaiting the return of their master. The end will come like a thief in the night.

• God's Kingdom: Jesus reassures His disciples that it is the Father's good pleasure to give them the kingdom, highlighting God's generous blessings and the significance of seeking His kingdom above all else.
• Faithfulness and Readiness: Jesus encourages His followers to be prepared and watchful, for they do not know when the Son of Man will return. He emphasizes the importance of being faithful stewards and using their time and resources wisely.
• Responsibility and Accountability: Jesus speaks of the faithful and wise servant who fulfills his responsibilities in the master's absence, contrasting it with the unfaithful servant who neglects his duties and faces severe consequences.
• Servanthood and Service: Jesus teaches the disciples about the role of a servant, emphasizing the need to faithfully serve others and be ready for the master's return.
• Greater Responsibility, Greater Accountability: Jesus emphasizes that those who are given greater responsibility will be held to a higher standard of accountability, stressing the importance of faithful stewardship in light of one's given opportunities and resources.
• Faithful Living: The passage underscores the call for believers to be prepared, faithful, and diligent in their walk with Christ, utilizing their time, talents, and resources for God's kingdom purposes.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C.

Scary Stuff – A Lesson Plan on the Second Coming

On the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, as we reflect on the readings, we are reminded of the significance of being prepared for the second coming of Christ. This lesson plan encourages youth that rather than being fearful, we should embrace this event with readiness. The plan explores the notion that our preparation is essential. It encourages the youth to deepen their understanding of the second coming, emphasizing the importance of living a life of faith, hope, and love, while eagerly anticipating the glorious return of our Lord.

The Power of God

On the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we are invited to praise the power of God and recognize the unwavering protection He offers us. Inspired by Psalm 33, this prayer serves as a beautiful expression of gratitude and adoration. It reminds us of the omnipotent nature of our Creator and the reassurance we find in His sheltering embrace. As we utter these words, we are reminded of the responsorial psalm for this Sunday, drawing us closer to the divine presence and acknowledging the steadfast love and care that God extends to each of us.

Guard the Treasure Game

On the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, the game "Guard the Treasure" offers an exciting opportunity to be ready for a thief. Set in a relatively small indoor area, one youth takes on the role of the guardian while others play the role of daring thieves attempting to steal the treasure. This game not only provides a fun-filled experience but also serves as a metaphorical reminder for the youth to protect and defend the precious gift of their faith. Through playful interactions, they learn the significance of safeguarding what is truly valuable in their lives.

Go on a Hero’s Journey

In this homily for 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Bishop Robert Barron explores the concept of faith as a willingness to trust and follow God on an adventurous journey. He highlights biblical figures like Abraham, Isaiah, and Jeremiah who stepped out of their comfort zones, and emphasizes that God himself embarked on a heroic journey to rescue humanity, inviting us to put our faith in Him.

Living Faith: Belief and Action

In this reflection for 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Jeff Cavins explores the concept of faith as not just intellectual agreement, but also entrusting oneself to God and taking action. Drawing from the example of Abraham and other biblical figures, he emphasizes that faith involves both belief and obedience, as a response to God's revelation.

The Greatest Surprise: Jesus' Second Coming

Father Mike Schmitz emphasizes the importance of living in the presence of Jesus now to prepare for His second coming, comparing it to surprising practical joke videos. By living with the awareness of Christ's presence and building up and encouraging others, the return of the Lord will be a joyful and incredible surprise rather than a disturbing one. Consider this when discussing the gospel for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C.

Faith of Our Fathers

In this reflection for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Scott Hahn highlights the praises sung for our fathers in the Liturgy, celebrating the defining moments in our family history of faith. The readings remind us of the trust and faith our ancestors placed in God's promises. While they did not witness the complete fulfillment of these promises, we now await the final fulfillment in Christ. As we live with readiness and vigilance, trusting in God's faithfulness, we anticipate His coming and the heavenly wedding feast. Through the Eucharist, we begin to taste the fulfillment of these promises, and by living in faith, hope, and love, we can receive His blessings and be delivered from death.

Faith and the Reasoning of the Religious Mind

In this homily for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Bishop Robert Barron emphasizes that faith is not unintelligent or irrational, but rather the reasoning of the religious mind. He counters the criticisms of faith as superstition or immaturity and highlights the profound thinkers and saints throughout history who exemplify intelligent faith. Scientific analysis alone cannot capture the essence of God, as God transcends scientific inquiry. Instead, faith is a rational response to the mystery of God and a trustful surrender to His providential care. Through the examples of Abraham and Jesus' teachings, Bishop Barron invites the faithful to embrace the questing and trusting reason of faith in encountering God.

Shifting Focus and Being Ready

In the readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we consider the early Christians' anticipation of Jesus' second coming. They thought He would return after His resurrection, but instead, they faced tough times like persecution and the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. These challenges made them realize that they needed to let go of worldly things and be ready for the end times.

The Scriptures tell us that the things we have in this world don't last forever. Even if we gather wealth and power, it won't bring lasting happiness. What really matters is the love we show to others. As followers of Jesus, our main goal should be to serve Him and help our neighbors.

When we become too attached to material possessions and care too much about what others think of us, we lose sight of Christ's presence in our lives. That's why it's important to be watchful and focus on prayer and acts of kindness. By aligning our hearts with God's plan, we become wise servants who are ready to welcome the Lord when He comes to us.

Faith and Letting Go

The readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C remind us about the faith and trust shown by God's people in the past. They believed in God's promises and were willing to give up their worldly security to stay faithful to Him. For example, Abraham, mentioned in the Second Reading, obeyed God even when he didn't fully understand His plan. Their stories encourage us to trust in God's guidance and let go of our own wants and attachments.

Sometimes we become too attached to our things, wanting others to notice and like what we have. We may even put our possessions before our relationship with God and helping others. But we should remember that true wealth comes from the love we give, the kindness we show, and the impact we have on others' lives. Let us reflect on this and consider where our priorities lie.

Living with Faith and Purpose

In the gospel for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Jesus tells His followers not to worry or be afraid. He assures them that God the Father loves and takes care of them. He reminds them that their true treasure is in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus wants His followers to be ready, stay alert, and use their resources wisely to help others. He stresses the importance of being faithful and responsible servants, ready to explain how they have used what God has given them when He comes back.

This message serves as a gentle reminder for us to think about what really matters in our lives and align our hearts with God's plan. We should let go of things that don't last and focus on building God's kingdom by showing love, kindness, and service to others. When we do this, we will be ready to meet Jesus whenever He shows Himself to us, both in extraordinary moments and in our everyday encounters.

• How do I recognize when the Lord is present in my life? Do I notice signs of His love and guidance, like moments of grace or answered prayers? How can I become more aware of God's presence in my everyday life?
• What can I do to strengthen my spiritual life and grow closer to God? Do I spend time in prayer, reading the Bible, or participating in religious practices? How can I nurture my faith and deepen my relationship with God?
• When I think about the important things in my life, what do I value the most? Is it material possessions, accomplishments, or what others think of me? How can I shift my focus to treasure things that have lasting worth, like love, compassion, and the well-being of others?
• Are there things or desires that hold me back from growing spiritually and following God's plan? How can I let go of these attachments and trust in God's plan for my life?
• How can I avoid being too focused on material things and seeking approval from others? What steps can I take to be content and grateful for what I have, rather than always wanting more?
• How can I use my time, talents, and resources to help others and make a positive difference in their lives? How can I contribute to building a world where God's love is felt?
• How can I show love, compassion, and kindness in my daily interactions? Are there specific ways I can be of service to others and make their lives better?
• How can I be responsible and faithful in using the gifts and blessings God has given me? Am I using them for God's glory and the benefit of others? How can I show accountability for how I use these resources when needed?
• What can I do to align my priorities with God's will and detach myself from temporary pleasures and distractions? How can I focus more on eternal values and strive to live a holy life?
• How can I create space in my life to encounter the Lord? How can I cultivate a heart that listens to His guidance and is ready to welcome Him whenever He reveals Himself to me?

• Alleluia, Sing to Jesus
• As It Is in Heaven
• Be Thou my Vision
• Better Is One Day
• Blessed The People the Lord Has Chosen
• Bring Forth the Kingdom
• Christ Be Our Light
• Do Not Be Afraid
• Everlasting God
• Eye Has Not Seen
• Faith of our Fathers
• Find Us Ready Lord
• In Christ Alone
• Lead Me Lord
• Marvelous Light
• May Your Kingdom Come
• O God, Our Help in Ages Past
• Only This I Want
• Open The Eyes of My Heart, Lord
• We Walk by Faith
• Where Your Treasure Is
• Yes I Shall Arise

What date is the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The upcoming dates are August 10, 2025
For other years see the links below:
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A: August 9, 2026
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B: August 11, 2024

What are the Mass readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The Mass readings for August 10, 2025 are:
First Reading – Wisdom 18:6-9: The Night of Passover and the Divine Salvation
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 33: Blessings for Those Chosen by the Lord
Second Reading – Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19: Faith and Promise in Abraham's Life
Gospel - Luke 12:32-48: Trust in God and Faithful Servanthood
See the readings section of this page for a longer summary of these readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C and links to the readings.

What Are the themes for the Mass readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The readings for August 10, 2025 encourage believers to prioritize seeking God's kingdom, be diligent in their service, fulfill their responsibilities faithfully, and be prepared for the return of the Lord. It calls for a life of faithful stewardship, using one's time and resources wisely in service to God and others.
See the themes section of this page for an expansion on these themes for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C.