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Lifelong Catechesis

Forming Catholic identity across generations
October 13, 2024
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Advent

The twofold character of Advent calls us to prepare for the remembering of the Word made Flesh at Christmas, and directs us to wait with alertness for Jesus’ second coming.

Sunday Readings and Backgrounds

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Fourth Sunday of Advent

Reading I : 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16

The Lord is with you.

  • In today's reading, David wishes to build a temple, a house for the Ark of the Covenant, and so he consults his court prophet Nathan.
  • Nathan relates to David the message that God does not want a house. The essence of God's message is: You will not build a house for me; I will build a house for you.
  • The word house implies a temple or dynasty.

Reading II : Romans 16:25-27

The Gospel reveals a mystery hidden for many ages.

  • In the letter to the Romans, Paul teaches about salvation and faith.
  • Paul stresses that the Gospel, made known to all, is for the salvation of everyone who has faith.
  • The mystery kept secret for ages is now made clear.

Gospel : Luke 1:26-38

Blessed are you among women!

  • The annunciation story in the Gospel of Luke presents Jesus as the fulfillment of the messianic hope.
  • In today's passage, Mary of Nazareth humbly accepts the will of God, revealed by the angel Gabriel.
  • Luke's Gospel highlights Mary's special role in God's plan of salvation.