July 27, 2025 – Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Our Great Journey

This week our theme is “Our Father” based on Luke 11:1-13/ Lucas 11:1-13

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Opening Prayer:

All pray the Sign of the Cross

Dear God,
Thank you that we can celebrate Jesus
Thank you for all He did for us
And all that He continues to do
Help us to trust in you
Even when we don’t understand what’s happening
We know you work things for good
Thank you for your love
We love you, God!
In Jesus name, Amen!

Using the Bible, invite a family member to read the Gospel aloud.

Things to talk about:

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is teaching us how to pray. How do you like to pray?
How can you make your prayers more open and honest with God?
What does calling God “Father” mean to me in my prayer life?
How do I bring my needs and the needs of others to God?
When have I experienced persistence in prayer making a difference in my life?
How do I trust in God when my prayers are not answered right away?

Things to do:

The Our Father, also known as the Lord’s Prayer, is central to the Gospel reading for this Sunday. Jesus teaches this prayer to His disciples, inviting them to approach God with trust and sincerity. Each phrase of the prayer reflects a deep relationship with God, focusing on His holiness, His will, and our reliance on Him for daily needs, forgiveness, and guidance.
Take time to pray the Lord’s Prayer together and talk about each line as you pray. Praying the Lord’s Prayer thoughtfully can help us grow closer to God. Reflecting on each part of the prayer encourages us to align our lives with its meaning. This practice reminds us to trust in God’s care, seek His forgiveness, and strive to live according to His will, just as Jesus taught.
If a friend comes to your house asking for bread, you will have some to offer! Make Homemade Bread, click Here for recipe.
Play a game outside with a family member or friend. As you play take turns saying one line in the Our Father until you have said the entire prayer. For example, if you are playing basketball the first person says “Our Father, Who are in Heaven” while bouncing the ball – then they take a shot. The next person continues with “hallowed by Thy name, Thy Kingdom come” while bouncing the ball and then takes a shot. Continue until the prayer is done.

Closing Prayer

Our Father

Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

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

Catholic Insights

Asking, Trusting, Receiving

The 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time invites us to think about how we talk to God. The readings remind us that prayer is not just about saying words. It is about trust, hope, and knowing that God is listening.

Abraham speaks honestly with God. He asks questions and waits for answers.

In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us the Our Father. He also tells us to keep asking, seeking, and knocking. God is not far away. He wants to hear from us and give us good gifts.

Paul writes about baptism and new life. He reminds us that God has forgiven our sins. We are alive with Christ. This is the good news that gives us courage to keep praying.

This Sunday’s readings help us to remember that God hears us. He is kind, strong, and close. When we pray, we can trust that He is paying attention.

Play this Song: “The Lord’s Prayer” and dance together!!

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