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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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Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I : Isaiah 35:4-7a

Be strong! Fear not!

  • Today’s reading from Isaiah looks forward to a coming age of glory, when all Israel’s infirmities will be abolished.
  • This will be the age of the messiah; God’s anointed one, who comes to bring salvation to Israel.
  • The power of evil will no longer manifest itself in sickness or afflictions of any kind.

Reading II : James 2:1-5

Did not God choose the poor to become rich in faith?

  • The reading from James draws our attention to affliction and oppression.
  • If you shun people with physical impairments and those who are poor, you have missed Jesus’ message.
  • Faith in Jesus is expressed by working to free oppressed people.

Gospel : Mark 7:31-37

He makes the deaf hear!

  • Today’s Gospel story portrays Jesus’ healing as the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.
  • The deaf man with the speech impairment who is brought to Jesus is a Gentile.
  • The man is healed when Jesus touches the parts of him that are weak and impaired.