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Lifelong Catechesis

Forming Catholic identity across generations
October 13, 2024
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Ordinary Time

For a large part of the liturgical year, we devote ourselves to listening to the mystery of Christ in all its aspects unfolded as we seek God's truth and understanding.

Sunday Readings and Backgrounds

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Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I : Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15

The Lord provides what we need.

  • The people speak of death twice in this passage, which reflects anxiety due to hunger.
  • When God provides manna and quail, they ask, “What is this?”
  • This all occurred one month after leaving Egypt.

Reading II : Ephesians 4:17, 20-24

Be renewed in the spirit of your mind; put away your old self.

  • The young Church is persuading the people to put away the ways of the world, possibly numerous gods and immorality—much as it is in any society at any time.
  • The passage moves back and forth between denunciation and urging.
  • The central point is that a radical change is needed.

Gospel : John 6:24-35

Do not work for food that perishes; work for food that endures for eternal life.

  • Jesus appears to be aware that the people are shallow in their commitment.
  • The crowd has focused on the sign and failed to believe its message.
  • Jesus is the manna, the provision from God to quench spiritual hunger; he is the Bread of Life.