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Lifelong Catechesis

Forming Catholic identity across generations
December 11, 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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Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I : Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b

We will serve the Lord!

  • The Book of Joshua describes the story of the Israelites as they take possession of the Promised Land.
  • The people are a new generation of Israel.
  • Joshua gathers the people in the center of the land at Shechem to renew their covenant commitment to God.

Reading II : Ephesians 5:21-32

Christ loves us as spouses love each other.

  • The reading from the Letter to the Ephesians describes the mutual respect that should prevail in ordinary human relationships because of the new life shared in Christ.
  • The relationship of marriage is particularly significant because the marriage relationship stands as a symbol of the covenant relationship between the people and God.
  • The fidelity and love between wife and husband symbolize the fidelity and love between God and the people and between Christ and his Church.

Gospel : John 6:60-69

You have the words of eternal life.

  • Jesus' divinity is clearly implied in the Gospel of John.
  • In today's passage the disciples are faced with a choice.
  • Peter, representing the Twelve, affirms their decision to stay with Jesus.