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Lifelong Catechesis

Forming Catholic identity across generations
December 07, 2023
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Sunday Readings and Backgrounds

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I : Jeremiah 23:1-6

Woe to those who mislead their sheep.

  • Preaching just before the Babylonian exile, Jeremiah warns the people that they will lose the land and be driven into exile unless they turn from their evil ways.
  • The people do not turn from their evil ways.  They and Zedekiah, their ruler, are taken into exile.
  • The leaders of the exiled people, like good shepherds, kept the people united and nourished them with hope.

Reading II : Ephesians 2:13-18

He announced the Good News to those who were far off and to those who were near.

  • The Letter to the Ephesians emphasizes the unity between Jews and Gentiles.
  • All who are redeemed through Christ are one body in him.
  • Christ is the way to peace for all people.

Gospel : Mark 6:30-34

They went to a deserted place to rest.

  • The disciples have just returned from their first missionary journey and Jesus knows that they need rest.
  • The attempt to get away from the crowds is useless because the people are hungry to hear the word of God.
  • Jesus, the Good Shepherd, responds to the people with compassion.

Segunda Lectura : Efesios 2, 13-18

Vino como evangelizador de la paz: paz para ustedes que estaban lejos, y paz para los judíos que estaban cerca.

  • La carta a los Efesios enfatiza la unidad entre judíos y gentiles.
  • Todos los que son redimidos por medio de Cristo son un solo cuerpo en Él.
  • Cristo es el camino a la paz para todas las personas.