November 10, 2024 – 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Our Great Journey

The theme is “I Give my All” based on Mark 12:38-44 / Marcos 12:38-44

All pray the Sign of the Cross

Lord our God, hep us to live our Baptism and to find ways to do what Jesus did: to bring joy and life, to lift up the suffering, and to tell people about the new life Jesus has brought us. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

In addition to our prayers from the heart, our prayers for November are the Glory Be & Morning Offering. Please pray these prayers daily to learn them.

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

Things to talk about:

What is the difference between how the Scribes behaved vs. how the poor widow behaved in this Gospel? What can we learn from this?
Do you know someone who displays the virtue of humility? Tell a story about that person and why you admire him or her.
Why is it important to contribute to the needs of the Church by sharing our time, talent and treasure?

Things to do:

Pumpkin muffins—in honor of the widow’s contribution of two coins, make this simple two-ingredient recipe. 1 spice cake mix, 1 can pure pumpkin. (not the pumpkin pie filling.) Mix the ingredients. Preheat oven to 350. Use cupcake holders or spray muffin tin. Fill each muffin 1/2-3/4 full. Bake 20-30 minutes.
At what point during Mass do we make contributions to the church? What do we contribute? What do you think the money we give to the church pays for in our parish?
Practice the virtue of humility by being mindful not to brag or talk about yourself excessively this week.
Start a Thankful Turkey, read more

Closing Prayer

Listen to the song Open My Eyes, by Jesse Manibusan. Reflect on the lyrics and share what speaks to you through this song.

Name those who need our prayers.

Catholic Insights

In this Gospel, Jesus points out that it’s important to examine our motives. In the story of the poor widow, we learn that we should also think about why we are doing good.

Prior to this scene, Jesus was criticizing the scribes. They were men who wrote legal documents and were the keepers and interpreters of Jewish religious traditions. Jesus warned against acting like them, as their hearts seemingly were not in the right place as they always sought recognition but did not follow the spirit of the law when it came to helping the poor.

Amidst the flashy displays of almsgiving, Jesus notices the poor widow’s donation. Even when we think no one sees what we do, good or bad, God knows.

Many of us might not have great wealth, influence or power, but what we do have is time and talent and energy. We are encouraged to “Give our all.” We show our love for God best when we open our hearts and give of our very selves.

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