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Lifelong Catechesis

Forming Catholic identity across generations
September 18, 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-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I : Jeremiah 20:7-9

I suffer for the sake of doing God's work.

  • The first reading refers to a time when the prophet Jeremiah has just come out of hiding in fear for his life.
  • Jeremiah is mocked and scorned for preaching against the sins of Israel.
  • Even at the cost of such suffering, preaching God's word is better for Jeremiah than suppressing it.

Reading II : Romans 12:1-2

Be transformed.

  • Paul proclaims self-surrender in the Letter to the Romans.
  • When we offer God our whole life, our prayer and rituals are meaningful.
  • Paul urges Christians to let their lives be transformed in the image of eternal life.

Gospel : Matthew 16:21-27

Take up your cross.

  • In a series of three passages, Jesus announces his imminent suffering and death, which is to be followed by his being raised from the dead.
  • In today's passage, a misunderstanding of the prediction is voiced by Peter. It becomes clear that fidelity to Jesus would ultimately cost the disciple life itself.
  • The paradox here is that the one who willingly gives up mortal life for Jesus' sake gains eternal life.