Things to talk about:

• Jesus describes some terrible events but reminds us of God’s care for us always. Share a time when you felt God’s care during a difficult time.
• Jesus warns that his followers will face persecution for their beliefs. Share a time when you were teased or mistreated for your beliefs.
• Is it easy to trust God when difficult things happen? Why or why not?

Things to do:

• A stone or plaque is often placed near the entrance of a church to remember the year it was built. Find the cornerstone for our church. How old is our church?
• The Catholic Church is active in assisting people who are suffering or in distress. Research some of the organizations who provide help: Catholic Charities, Catholic Relief Services, St. Vincent de Paul, Catholic Missionaries. Pray for all who serve in God’s name to provide relief as well as for those who are impacted by persecution, distress and disasters.
• November is Black Catholic History Month. Visit https://nbccongress.org/ for resources provided by the National Black Catholic Congress.

Closing Prayer

One Day at a Time

This prayer reminds us to ask for God’s wisdom when things feel overwhelming.

Lord, I know you love me and have great plans for me.

But sometimes I am overwhelmed by the thought of my future.

Show me how to walk forward one day at a time.

May I take heart while I search openly for what it is you want me to do with my life.

Inspire in me wisdom and understanding to see your vision for my life and respond with openness to whatever you call me to be. Show me your way Lord! Amen.

Prayer #39 from http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/prayers/prayers-for-vocations.cfm

Name those who need our prayers. Close with the Sign of the Cross.

Catholic Insights

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus predicts the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and warns his followers that persecution will come before the end time.

Jesus warns that his followers will face persecution for their beliefs, but also assures us that God is present to all believers, even in times of trouble. 

The destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem by the Romans was history (70 A.D.); Luke’s Gospel, Catholic scholars propose, was written between 80 and 90 A.D. Luke is suggesting to his audience (Gentile Christians) that there will be considerable time before Jesus’ final coming. They have seen much upheaval and are anxious to know if these are the signs of Jesus’ coming. Luke urges greater patience.

This is a hard Gospel to hear, but relevant to all the scary events occurring in our world. Having faith will save us; even in the face of danger, war, natural disasters, diseases…. We can always rely on God for the courage needed. He will even give us the words to respond in difficult situations. When we pray, we also need to listen for God’s response. We strengthen our faith through prayer, attending Mass and receiving the Sacraments. God is faithful and good, all the time.

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Resources adapted from 52Sundays.com, Celebrating the Lectionary, At Home with the Word, Celebrating Families, Sunday Connection