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November 2016

Dear Friends in Christ,

Isaiah invites us to, "...walk in the light of The Lord." in the very first week of the Advent scriptures that kicks off this series of reflections for our Lectionary Based Small Christian Communities. This edition continues through the Christmas Season and concludes with the eighth weekend of Ordinary Time.

Even after the great light of Christ has come to us at Christmas and guided us at Epiphany, Isaiah and Matthew's Gospel remind us that, "a people who walk in darkness shall see a great light!"

Look for other powerful references to light in these readings and open yourselves up to the growing illumination of your shared discussion, prayer, reflection and fellowship that this resource encourages.

Please always remember what Jesus proclaims towards the end of this guide, "You are the light of the world!" and what we hear early in Advent, that "The Lord will come unexpectedly...” in your discussion.

God bless you in your shared faith.

Yours in Christ,

Fr. Terry Keehan

Lectionary Based Small Christian Community Guide

1st Sunday of Advent through 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time

1st Sunday of Advent . . . . . . . . . . . 4NOVEMBER 27, 2016

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time . . . . . 18JANUARY 15, 2017

2nd Sunday of Advent . . . . . . . . . . . 6DECEMBER 4, 2016

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time . . . . . 20JANUARY 22, 2017

3rd Sunday of Advent . . . . . . . . . . . 8DECEMBER 11, 2016

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time . . . . 22JANUARY 29, 2017

4th Sunday of Advent . . . . . . . . . . . 10DECEMBER 18, 2016

5th Sunday in Ordinary Time . . . . . 24FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Feast of the Nativity ofthe Lord . . . . . . . . . . . . 12DECEMBER 25, 2016


Solemnity Mary,the Holy Mother of God . . . . . . . . . 14JANUARY 1, 2017


Epiphany of the Lord . . . . . . . . . . . . 16JANUARY 8, 2017


Gathering of the Small Christian Community

Fostering a Prayerful Environment LBSCC Guide Holy Family Catholic Community Inverness, IL 60067 2

Lighting the Candle

Music, Silent Prayer

Praying the Covenant Prayer

God Sightings How has anyone experienced God’s presence or the movement or the will of

God in the events of your life or our world since the last time we met?

Breaking Open the Sacred Scripture Readings

DVD Reflection

Faith Sharing Questions

Responding to God’s Word What am I going to do, concretely, to live the message of the Scriptures this week?

What can we do, as a small Christian community, short-range or long-term, to

transform society in light of the Scriptures we have heard proclaimed?

What outreach or social justice mission should we embrace as a group?

Closing Prayer Petitions

Our Father

1 st Sunday of Advent November 27, 2016

FIRST READINGIsaiah 2:1-5A reading from the book of the Prophet Isaiah

SECOND READINGRomans 13:11-14A reading from the Letter of Saint Paulto the Romans

LBSCC Guide Holy Family Catholic Community Inverness, IL 60067 3

The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come,the mountain of the LORD’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it.Many peoples shall come and say,“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob;that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.”For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples;they shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks;nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!

Brothers and sisters, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep.For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near.Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us live honourably as in the day, not in reviling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarrelling and jealousy.Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.


1st Sunday of Advent • November 27, 2016

GOSPELMatthew 24:37-44A reading from the holy Gospelaccording to Matthew

Jesus spoke to his disciples:“As the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so too will be the coming of the Son of Man.Then two will be in the field; one will be taken and one will be left.Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken and one will be left.Keep awake, therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into.Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.”

FAITH SHARING QUESTIONS

1. In the course of your daily life, what does it mean to “walk in the light of the Lord”?

2. Considering the current state of the world, what would have to happen to make Isaiah’s prophecy in the first reading a reality?

3. What does it take to live the “wakeful” life that Paul describes?

4. How strongly do you feel that you are prepared for the “end times”?

5. What spiritual practices do you find helpful in “staying awake” spiritually?

SOCIAL JUSTICE QUESTION

Life’s “busyness” and distractions make it difficult to stay alert and ready at a moment’s notice, especially the lives of those less fortunate as they are burdened to continually meet their basic needs of food, clothing and shelter. What justice issue are you being called to be “awakened” to confront?


2 nd Sunday of Advent December 4, 2016

FIRST READINGIsaiah 11:1-10A reading from the book of the Prophet Isaiah

On that day: A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.The spirit of the LORD shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.His delight shall be in the fear of the LORD.He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.Righteousness shall be the belt around his waist, and faithfulness the belt around his loins.The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them.The cow and the bear shall graze, their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den.They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.

On that day the root of Jesse shall stand as a signal to the peoples; the nations shall inquire of him, and his dwelling shall be glorious.


Brothers and sisters:Whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the circumcised on behalf of the truth of God and in order that he might confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy.As it is written: “Therefore I will confess you among the Gentiles, and sing praises to your name.”


2nd Sunday of Advent • December 4, 2016


In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.This is the one of whom the Prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’”Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.

But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, John said to them, “You brood of vipers!Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?Bear fruit worthy of repentance.Do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham.Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.I baptize you with water for repentance, but the one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals.

He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”


1. “The wolf shall live with the lamb”, “the leopard shall lie down with the kid”: what would it take to achieve this in your family, your neighborhood, your church?

2. Paul teaches that the Scriptures are the fertile ground for hope. Have you found that to be true? If yes, in what way? If no, why not?

3. Has there been someone who has been a ‘voice crying out in the wilderness’ for you? What message did that ‘voice’ impart to you?

4. What are some of the concrete ways that you/we can “Prepare the way of the Lord” today?

5. The theme of Hope runs through all three readings. What are the signs of hope in each of the readings? Why is hope such an important virtue in the life of a Christian?


How do you tap into Jesus’ compassionate love to bring about justice in an unjust world?


3 rd Sunday of Advent December 11, 2016

FIRST READINGIsaiah 35:1-6a, 10A reading from the book of the Prophet Isaiah

The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing.The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon.They shall see the glory of the LORD, the majesty of our God.Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees.Say to those who are of a fearful heart, “Be strong, do not fear!Here is your God.He will come with vengeance, with terrible recompense.He will come to save you.”Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy.And the ransomed of the Lord will return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they will shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

SECOND READINGJames 5:7-10A reading from the Letter of Saint James

Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord.The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.You also must be patient.Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.Brothers and sisters, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged.See, the Judge is standing at the doors!As an example of suffering and patience, brothers and sisters, take the Prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.


3rd Sunday of Advent • December 11, 2016


When John the Baptist heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples who said to Jesus, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?”Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them.And blessed is anyone who takes no offence at me.”As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out to the desert to look at?A reed swayed by the wind?What then did you go out to see?Someone dressed in soft robes?Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces.What then did you go out to see? A Prophet?Yes, I tell you, and more than a Prophet.This is the one about whom it is written, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”


1. In the 1st reading Isaiah expresses trust that God will, at an unknown future time, bring new life to his people. Who do you know that needs to hear Isaiah’s message today? How could you bring this message of hope to them?

2. What are the areas of your life, the life of a loved one, the world , the Church that are in need of the renewal that Isaiah promises in the 1st reading?

3. Patience is a virtue that many find hard to acquire. Do you consider yourself to be basically patient or impatient? How does that affect your faith life?

4. How is John the Baptist a model for us as followers of Christ?

5. How do we or how should we exercise our own call to be “prophet”?

6. This Sunday is called “Gaudete” Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice”. Look at each reading and find what words or phrases cause you to rejoice.


How do you see caring for the poor related to the coming of Jesus?


4 th Sunday of Advent December 18, 2016

FIRST READINGIsaiah 7:10-14A reading from thebook of the Prophet Isaiah

The LORD spoke to Ahaz, saying,“Ask for a sign of the LORD your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.”But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, and I will not put the LORD to the test.”Then Isaiah said: “Hear then, O house of David!Is it too little for you to weary the people, that you weary my God also?Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign.Look, the young woman is with child and shall bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.”


From Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle set apart for the Gospel of God, which God promised beforehand through his Prophets in the holy Scriptures: the Gospel concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and was declared to be Son of God with power according to the spirit of holiness by resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord.Through Christ we have received grace and apostleship, to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles for the sake of his name, including yourselves who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.To all God’s beloved in Rome, who are called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.


4th Sunday of Advent • December 18, 2016


The birth of Jesus the Christ took place in this way.When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child from the Holy Spirit.Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.But just when he had resolved to do this, an Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the Prophet: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means “God is with us.”When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the Angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife.


1. Have there been times when you were afraid to ask God for something? If so, what might have been the reason?

2. When have you in times of trial or stress received a sign of God’s love?

3. Paul says that the Romans, and we ourselves, are called to be saints. What does it mean to be a saint? Do you see yourself as ‘saint material’ or others as ‘saint material’?

4. What gifts/talents have you been given by God that you use to proclaim the Gospel?

5. Discuss a time when “doing the right thing” caused you embarrassment or discomfort. What enabled you to do it anyway?

6. In what ways have you experienced the “Coming of the Lord” this Advent? Are you ready to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas?


The Gospel talks about having faith – and only faith - in believing that God can make something good out of something seemingly disastrous. What roles as responsibilities do we have in fulfilling God’s will for others? How do you give and share?


Feast of the Nativity of the Lord December 25, 2016

FIRST READINGIsaiah 9:2-4,6-7A reading from the bookof the Prophet Isaiah

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them light has shone.You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom.He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore.The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

SECOND READINGTitus 2:11-14A reading from the Letter of Saint Paulto Titus

Beloved:The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ.He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds.

GOSPELLuke 2:1-16 + +A reading from the holy Gospelaccording to Luke

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.All went to their own towns to be registered.Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David.He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child.


Feast of the Nativity of the Lord • December 25, 2016

And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.Then an Angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the Angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ, the Lord.This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.”And suddenly there was with the Angel a multitude of heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours!”When the Angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.”So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger.


1. Which of the names given to ‘the child born to us’ in the first reading would be the one which you would most often associate with Jesus?

2. How zealous do you feel that the people of this age are for good deeds as Paul describes in the 2nd reading?

3. Luke’s Gospel account of Jesus’ birth is very familiar to us. Which part(s) are most impactful to you? Has that changed for you in any way through the years?

4. Describe your past Christmas experiences. How did they help you see the wonder and glory of the Incarnation?

5. When you were young, what family traditions did you have that helped you understand the spiritual significance of Christmas? How do you celebrate the spiritual reality of Christmas at this time in your life?


Jesus came into the world to model a lifestyle of living justly and devoutly, rejecting godless ways and worldly desires. What might you need to reject in order to model a just lifestyle for others?


Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God January 1, 2017

FIRST READINGNumbers 6:22-27A reading from the book of Numbers

The Lord spoke to Moses: Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the children of Israel: You shall say to them, The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.So shall they put my name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.

SECOND READINGGalatians 4:4-7A reading from the Letter of Saint Paulto the Galatians

Brothers and sisters:When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption to sonship.And because you are sons and daughters, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”So you are no longer slave but son, and if son then also heir, through God.


Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God • January 1, 2017

GOSPELLuke 2: 16-21A reading from the holy Gospelaccording to Luke

The shepherds went with haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger.When they saw this, they made known what had been told to them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them.But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told to them.After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was called Jesus, the name given by the Angel before he was conceived in the womb.


1. A blessing of peace is offered at the beginning of this New Year. What do you understand by ‘peace’? What is essential for peace to exist in our lives/ in our times?

2. What are your hopes for the New Year in terms of your discipleship?

3. How strongly do you identify as a ‘son /daughter of God’?

4. How does Mary inspire you to be a better disciple of Jesus?

5. Mary ‘pondered’ what the shepherds told her. What ‘ponderings’ are in your heart as we begin this New Year?


Mary began her motherhood entrusting herself to God’s will. Like Mary, how do you balance your faith, prayer life and actions dedicating yourself to God’s will, especially God’s will to have a just and peaceful society?


The Epiphany of the Lord January 8, 2017

FIRST READINGIsaiah 60:1-6A reading from thebook of the Prophet Isaiah

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!For darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will appear over you.Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.Lift up your eyes and look around; they all gather together, they come to you; your sons shall come from far away, and your daughters shall be carried on their nurses’ arms.Then you shall see and be radiant; your heart shall thrill and rejoice, because the abundance of the sea shall be brought to you, the wealth of the nations shall come to you.A multitude of camels shall cover you, the young camels of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come.They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall proclaim the praise of the LORD.

SECOND READINGEphesians 3:2-3a, 5-6A reading from the Letter of Saint Paulto the Ephesians

Brothers and sisters:Surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given me for you, and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation.In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind as it has now been revealed to his holy Apostles and Prophets by the Spirit: that is, the Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the Gospel.


The Epiphany of the Lord • January 8, 2017


In the time of King Herod after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men came from the east came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews?For we observed his star at its rising and have come to pay him homage.”When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born.They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for it has been written by the Prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah; are by no means least among the rulers of Judah, for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.’”Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared.Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I too may also go and pay him homage.”When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was.When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.

On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage.Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.


1. Isaiah tells Jerusalem to ‘rise and shine in glory once again’. How can we, as American Christians, better reflect the glory of the Lord?

2. What needs to happen so that all Christian denominations might be gathered into one?

3. The Gospel says that the Magi went home a different way. Our encounter with God can lead us to go a different way. How has your encounter with God led you to go a different way?

4. Have you ever had a dream that seemed to indicate a change in the direction in your life?

5. If you were chosen to bring a gift to the newborn king in our day what gift would you bring?

6. How do the wonders of God’s creation draw you closer to God?


Can you name the thick cloud, which covers a particular justice issue for you?


2 nd Sunday in Ordinary Time January 15, 2017

FIRST READINGIsaiah 49:3, 5-6A reading fromthe book of the Prophet Isaiah

The LORD said to me: “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.”And now the LORD says who formed me in the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honoured in the sight of the LORD, for my God has become my strength.He says, “It is too small a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the survivors of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”

SECOND READING1 Corinthians 1:1-3A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians

From Paul, called to be an Apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and from our brother Sosthenes.To the Church of God that is in Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, together with all those who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.


2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time • January 15, 2017

GOSPELJohn 1:29-34A reading from the holy Gospelaccording to John

John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!This is he of whom I said, ‘After me come a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.”And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and remain on him.I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.”


1. The Lord called the Israelites to be a light to the nations. What does the Lord expect of our community of faith? In what ways are we living up to that expectation? In what ways could we improve?

2. How and when do you most often recognize that ‘God has become my strength’?

3. Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are a ‘sanctified community’. What are the characteristics that a ‘sanctified community’ should possess?

4. Do you think that it is harder to be a disciple of the Lord today than it was in the time of Paul’s Corinth? Why/ why not?

5. In the Gospel John acknowledges that ‘I did not know him’ referring to Jesus. Can you remember a time in your own life when you could have said the same?

6. How would you respond if someone asked if you have a personal relationship with Jesus? How would you explain your answer?


John the Baptist challenges us to be a witness of the power of the Holy Spirit. In terms of justice, what does this look like? What is the cost of this witnessing?


3 rd Sunday in Ordinary Time January 22, 2017

First ReadingIsaiah 9.1-4A reading from thebook of the Prophet Isaiah

There will be no gloom for those who were in anguish.In the former time the Lord brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shone.You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.

Second Reading1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17-18A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paulto the Corinthians

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in agreement and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same purpose.For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there are quarrels among you, my brothers and sisters.What I mean is that each of you says, “I belong to Paul,” or “I belong to Apollos,” or “I belong to Cephas,” or “I belong to Christ.”Has Christ been divided?Was Paul crucified for you?Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?For Christ did not send me to baptize but to proclaim the Gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its power.For the message about the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.


3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time • January 22, 2017

GospelMatthew 4:12-23A reading from the holy Gospelaccording to Matthew

When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee.He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what had been spoken through the Prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali, on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles - the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.”From that time Jesus began to proclaim “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”As he was walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen.And he said to them, “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of people.”Immediately they left their nets and followed him.As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them.Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.

Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.


1. Have there been times of ‘darkness’ on your faith journey? If so, did the ‘light of the Lord’ finally shine through? If so, how?

2. In what way(s) have you been able to bring God’s light into the darkness of our Church, our world or another person?

3. Have you been part of a faith community that struggled with divisions? Were they healed? If so, how? If not, what prevented the healing?

4. In accepting the invitation to follow Christ what have you left behind? What do you still need to leave behind?

5. What do you think it might have been about the message of Jesus that inspired the disciples to follow Him? What is it about the message of Jesus that inspires you to follow Him?


What justice issue do you feel called to address? Who would you choose as your “disciples” to join your efforts? Why did you choose these certain individuals?

4 th Sunday in Ordinary Time January 29, 2017 LBSCC Guide Holy Family Catholic Community Inverness, IL 60067 21

First ReadingZephaniah 2.3, 3.12-13A reading from thebook of the Prophet Zephaniah

Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, who do his commands; seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the Lord’s wrath.For I will leave in the midst of you a people humble and lowly.They shall seek refuge in the name of the Lord – the remnant of Israel; they shall do no wrong and utter no lies, nor shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouths.Then they will pasture and lie down, and no one shall make them afraid.

Second Reading1 Corinthians 1.26-31A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians

Consider your own call, brothers and sisters: not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth.But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, things that are not, to reduce to nothing things that are, so that no one might boast in the presence of God.God is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption, in order that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time • January 29, 2017 LBSCC Guide Holy Family Catholic Community Inverness, IL 60067 22

GospelMatthew 5.1-12A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him.Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.Blessed are those who are persecuted for Righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the Prophets who were before you.”


1. In what ways do you “seek the Lord”?

2. What does it mean to “boast in the Lord? In what way(s) can you “boast in the Lord?

3. How do you contrast ‘human wisdom’ with the ‘wisdom of God’?

4. Which of the Beatitudes can you most readily embrace and which seem more difficult to grasp?

5. Discuss in your group concrete ways to implement each of the Beatitudes?


More and more people are quick to tell others how to live yet rarely make a difference themselves. Jesus has the ultimate authority, but it is not because of what he says but because of what he does. Who do you know who needs to make a change in their life? Are you willing to walk along with that person on their journey?


5 th Sunday in Ordinary Time February 5, 2017

First ReadingIsaiah 58:6-10++++A reading from the book of theProphet Isaiah

Thus says the LORD: Is this not the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not hide yourself from your own kin?Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly; your vindication shall go before you, the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am!If you remove the yoke from among you, the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil, if you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday.

Second Reading1 Corinthians 2:1-5A reading from the firstLetter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians

When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in lofty words or wisdom.For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.And I came to you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling,My speech and my proclamation were not with plausible words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God.


5th Sunday in Ordinary Time • February 5, 2017


Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored?It is no longer good for anything, but it is thrown out and trampled under foot.You are the light of the world.A city built on a hill cannot be hidden.No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.In the same way, let your light shine before human beings, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”


1. In a month we will begin to celebrate the Season of Lent. How could the first reading shape your Lenten fasting?

2. Why does it seem that it is easier to ‘speak words of wisdom’ rather than to act righteously? How can we avoid that pitfall?

3. Paul warns the Corinthians not to rely on human wisdom. What makes us vulnerable to the lure of ‘human wisdom’?

4. We are called to be salt and light. How do we/you do this?

5. What positive action, that demonstrates genuine concern for the needy in our midst, could you personally or your group together do in response to this week’s Scriptures?


Jesus came to announce God’s kingdom; a reign of wholeness, healing, restoration and life. In what acts of service are you invested to bring about the light of God to your family, your parish, your neighborhood?



First ReadingSirach 15:15-20A reading from the Book of Sirach

If you choose, you can keep the commandments, and they will save you.If you trust in God, you too shall live, and to act faithfully is a matter of your own choice.The Lord has placed before you fire and water; stretch forth your hand for whichever you choose.Before each person are life and death, good and evil and whichever one chooses, that shall be given.For great is the wisdom of the Lord; he is mighty in power and sees everything; his eyes are on those who fear him, and he knows every human action.He has not commanded anyone to be wicked, and has not given anyone permission to sin.

Second Reading1 Corinthians 2:6-10A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paulto the Corinthians

Brothers and sisters:Among the mature we do speak wisdom, though it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to perish.But we speak God’s wisdom, secret and hidden, which God decreed before the ages for our glory.None of the rulers of this age understood this; for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.As it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him.”These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.




Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not murder’; and ‘whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.’But I say to you that the one who is angry with their brother or sister, will be liable to judgement; and whoever insults their brother or sister, will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to the hell of fire.So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.

Come to terms quickly with your accuser while the two of you are on the way to court, or your acccuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison.Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to go into hell.It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce’..But I say to you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.Again you have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord.’But I say to you: Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.


And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.Let your word be ‘Yes,’ if ‘Yes,' or ‘No,’ if ‘No’; anything more than this comes from the evil one.”


1. What strategies do you use to help you choose good over evil?

2. The Book of Sirach reminds us that we have been given the right to choose. What responsibilities come with this right?

3. What does it mean to be truly wise in the ways of the Lord?

4. How does someone achieve the spiritual maturity that Paul describes in the 2nd reading?

5. How does Jesus expand the Law beyond the letter to the heart in the Gospel passage? Give examples from the Gospel.

6. How seriously do you take the instruction to leave your gift before the altar and go; first be reconciled with your brother or sister? Have you ever done this?


The teaching of moral behavior for Christians stresses respecting the life of one self and others. The death penalty is legal in many states. How do you interpret the Church’s teaching on moral behavior as it applies to the death penalty?



First ReadingLeviticus 19:1-2, 17-18A reading from the book of Leviticus

The LORD spoke to Moses: “Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.You shall not hate in your heart anyone of your kin; you shall reprove your neighbour, or you will incur guilt yourself.You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbour as yourself: I am the LORD.’”


Brothers and sisters:Do you not know that you God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person.For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.Do not deceive yourselves.If you think that you are wise in this age, you shall become fools so that you may become wise.For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”So let no one boast about human beings.For all things are yours - whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or the present or the future - all belong to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.




Jesus said to his disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer.But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them also the second mile.Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous.For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have?Do not even the tax collectors do the same?And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others?Do not even the Gentiles do the same?Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”


1. What does it mean to love your neighbor as yourself?

2. What constitutes the holiness of God? How can we strive for the holiness of God?

3. Have there ever been occasions when others saw you as foolish because of your adherence to the will of God? If so, how did you respond or react?

4. Why does love, at times, appear as foolishness?

5. In calling us to go the extra mile, to turn the other cheek, to outdo others in generosity, to rise above the fray, Jesus is not suggesting that we allow ourselves to be abused. What is he suggesting?

6. Not seeking retribution is difficult. What are alternatives to retribution that have worked for you?


Violence and hatred exists in many parts of the world. What can you do to promote peace in distant lands such as Syria and Sudan?



First ReadingIsaiah 49:14-15A reading from thebook of the Prophet Isaiah

Zion said, “The LORD has forsaken me, my LORD has forgotten me.”Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb?Even these may forget, yet I will never forget you.


Brothers and sisters:Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries.Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court.I do not even judge myself.I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted.It is the Lord who judges.Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart.Then each one will receive commendation from God.




Jesus taught his disciples, saying, “No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other.You cannot serve God and wealth.Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear.Is not life more than food; and the body more than clothing?Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.Are you not of more value than they?And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to their span of life?And why do you worry about clothing?Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin. yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you – you of little faith?Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.

But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own.Today’s trouble is enough for today.”


1. In times of distress and trial how have you been reminded that God will not abandon you?

2. Why do you think that some are not able to accept that God will not abandon them? How strong is your personal belief that God will not abandon you?

3. What defines a ‘trusting steward’? How do you see yourself in this regard?

4. How does being trustworthy apply to faith?

5. What do you worry about? How does worrying diminish faith or stunt the growth of faith?

6. What would you identify as the core message of today’s Gospel?


The Gospel tells us that we cannot serve both God and wealth (mammon). Do you serve more than one master which keeps you from strengthening your relationship with God and others who need your attention?


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