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33rd Sunday of Year B

November 17, 2024

Children

Children

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DETROIT CATHOLIC – Across the Archdiocese of Detroit, holy hours geared toward young children and families have become more common, introducing the littlest believers to a relationship with Christ. READ ARTICLE
write a 600 word essay written from a child’s perspective telling other children about xxxxxxxxxxxxx

The End Times

Ana

Hey there, friends! Today, I want to talk about a story from the Bible in Mark 13:24-32. It’s a part of the Bible where Jesus talks about the end times. I know it might sound a little scary, but don’t worry! If we believe in Jesus, we have nothing to be afraid of.

In this story, Jesus talks about some strange things that will happen before He comes back. He says that the sun and moon will become dark, and stars will fall from the sky. I know, it sounds like a scary movie, right? But remember, Jesus is with us, and He loves us very much.

Jesus also tells us that He will send His angels to gather His friends from all around the world. That’s us! He wants us to be with Him in Heaven, where everything is always perfect, and there’s no more sadness or pain.

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “But what if I’m not ready when Jesus comes back?” Don’t worry; we just need to believe in Jesus and try our best to follow His teachings. That means being kind to others, sharing our toys, and saying our prayers. It’s like getting ready for a big adventure!

One important way we can get ready for Jesus’ return is by going to Mass every Sunday. At Mass, we learn more about Jesus, listen to His teachings, and receive Him in the Eucharist. The Eucharist is a special gift from Jesus that helps us grow closer to Him and become more like Him. Going to Mass every week helps us stay connected to Jesus and reminds us of the amazing things He has done for us.

Another thing Jesus talks about is a big tree called the fig tree. He says that when we see its branches become soft and green, we’ll know that summer is coming. This is like a sign that lets us know something important is about to happen. So, when we see the signs Jesus talked about, we should remember that He’s coming soon.

So, even though Mark 13:24-32 might sound a bit scary, we don’t have to be afraid. Jesus is our best friend, and He wants us to be excited about living with Him in Heaven someday. All we need to do is believe in Him, try our best to be good, and watch for the signs He told us about. Then, when the time comes, we’ll be ready for the greatest adventure of all!

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CARTOON BIBLE (1:31)

No One Knows the Day or Time

KEY INSIGHTS w/ QUESTIONS

Signs of the End Times

Q: What indicates the nearness of the end times?
A: When the fig tree's branches sprout leaves, it signals that summer is near, and similarly, when signs like the sun darkening, moon not shining, stars falling, and powers in the sky shaking occur together, it indicates the end times are approaching.

Uncertainty of the Exact Moment

Q: Who knows the exact time of the end?
A: Only the Father knows the precise time and day of the end, while even the angels in heaven and the Son himself do not have this knowledge.

Preparedness for the End

Q: How should one prepare for the end times?
A: Be constantly alert and prepared, as if waiting for a master to return at any moment, whether it's evening, midnight, before dawn, or morning.

The Son of Man's Return

Q: How will the Son of Man appear during the end times?
A: The Son of Man will be seen coming in the clouds with great power and glory, accompanied by angels gathering the chosen ones from all corners of the Earth.

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PRAYER TABLEE

33rd Sunday of Year B

OBJECTS & SYMBOLSDISCUSSION
create a list of objects that could be placed on a prayer table, reflecting the themes and symbolism found in the given Scripture passages xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Items you can place on a prayer table that reflect the themes and symbolism found in this week’s Sunday readings.

FIRST READING

  1. A Bible opened to Daniel 12:1-3 – Represents the importance of faithfulness and deliverance during times of distress.
  2. An hourglass or a clock – Serves as a reminder to be watchful and prepared for the end times, echoing Mark 13:24-32.
  3. A journal and pen – Encourages personal reflection on one’s own journey of faith and trust in God’s promises.

SECOND READING

  1. A cross or crucifix – Signifies the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting to Hebrews 10:11-14, 18.
  2. A candle – Symbolizes the light of Christ that guides believers through darkness, offering hope and salvation.
  3. A piece of artwork or an image depicting a bright and hopeful future – Reflects the theme of God’s promise of a prosperous and abundant future found in “I Give to You a Future.”

GOSPEL

  1. A map or globe – Serves as a reminder of the universality of God’s love and the importance of spreading the message of hope and salvation to all corners of the world.
  2. A piece of fabric or a banner with the words “faith,” “hope,” and “love” – Embodies the essential virtues that help one remain steadfast in their relationship with God.
  3. A simple piece of art or icon depicting people from different walks of life, reflecting the diversity of generations and the importance of loving God and our neighbors.nature of God’s love.
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key words and topics with a short description appropriate for young children related to the Sunday readings: the given Scripture passages xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Key words and topics appropriate for young children related to the Sunday readings:

FIRST READING

  1. Faithfulness – Trusting in God and staying true to His teachings.
  2. Deliverance – God’s saving power that helps people in times of trouble.
  3. Hope – Believing that something good will happen because God is in control.

SECOND READING

  1. Sacrifice – Giving up something important to help others, like Jesus giving up His life for us.
  2. Forgiveness – When we say sorry and choose to love and be kind again after someone does something wrong.
  3. Eternal life – The special life with God that lasts forever and ever.

GOSPEL

  1. Watchfulness – Paying attention and being ready for when Jesus comes back.
  2. Signs – Special things that help us know when something important is going to happen.
  3. Hope – Being excited and happy about the wonderful things God has planned for us.

Catechist Magazine Articles

November 17, 2024

Mark 10 Mission

Heidi Witte

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CHILDREN’S LITURGIES

33rd Sunday of Year B

FR. EDWARDMARY JO COLEFR. GLENNUGANDA CTVDOMINICAN SISTERS
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SOURCE: Holy Family FdL

What does God want us to do? Fr. Edward shares that all comes down to love in this week’s Children’s Liturgy of the Word.

KEY INSIGHTS w/ Timestamps

Core Teachings of Jesus

Q: What are the two greatest commandments according to Jesus?
A: Jesus stated the first commandment is to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and the second is to love your neighbor as yourself, which He deemed more valuable than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.

Q: How does God want us to demonstrate our love for Him?
A: God wants us to show our love by loving others through practical actions like taking out trash, helping with dishes, mowing lawns, exercising, and learning, which simultaneously express love for God and ourselves.

Practical Application of Faith

Q: How can we apply the commandment to love God with all our strength?
A: Loving God with all our strength can be demonstrated through physical activities like exercising, doing household chores, and engaging in learning, which show dedication to both God and self-improvement.

Q: What is the key to loving God according to the video?
A: The key to loving God is to ask in prayer: "God, how are you loving me today?", which helps us recognize and reciprocate God's love in our daily lives.

Understanding God's Plan

Q: What is God's ultimate goal for humanity according to the video?
A: God is creating a community of people who know how to love each other and God, with Jesus emphasizing that loving God and neighbor is the fundamental principle for achieving this goal.

Q: How do the 10 commandments and confession relate to loving God and others?
A: The 10 commandments and confession serve as signposts and guidance on how to practically love God and others in our daily lives and relationships.

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SOURCE: Mary Jo Cole

In today’s Gospel, we learn about Jesus coming back to Earth one day to gather up all his followers to live with Him forever in Heaven. We don’t know when that will be, so we want to live each day as Jesus did so we will be ready. This week, how can you prepare for the coming of Jesus?

KEY INSIGHTS w/ QUESTIONS

Preparation and Timing

Q: When will Jesus return?
A: The exact time is unknown, even to Jesus himself; only God knows when it will occur, which could be today, tomorrow, or thousands of years from now.

Q: How should one prepare for Jesus' return?
A: Live each day as if Jesus is coming by being loving, kind, helpful, praying, attending Mass, and following the Commandments.

Signs and Appearance

Q: What signs will accompany Jesus' return?
A: The sky and Earth will shake, the sun and moon will darken, and Jesus will appear in glorious, shining light.

Q: What natural signs should we watch for?
A: Look for signs like angels gathering followers and trees sprouting new branches and leaves.

Significance and Impact

Q: How will Jesus' return affect the world?
A: Jesus, the true light of the world, will shine so brightly that the sun and moon will no longer be needed.

Q: How is Jesus' return compared to other events?
A: It's likened to preparing for special occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas, requiring careful preparation.

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SOURCE: Edmonton Catholic School District

As the liturgical year ends, we are called to embrace hope and vigilance in anticipation of Advent, while reflecting on God’s promise of justice, peace, and love amidst life’s challenges.

KEY INSIGHTS w/ QUESTIONS

Historical Context

Why was the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in 70 AD significant? The destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in 70 AD was a catastrophic event for Jewish people, feeling like the end of the world, as their lives revolved around it.

When and why was the Gospel of Mark written? The Gospel of Mark, written around 70 AD, has an end times feel due to Jesus speaking about the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple.

Biblical Imagery

What are the key elements of the end times described in Mark 13:24-32? Mark 13:24-32 describes darkened sun and moon, falling stars, shaken heavens, the Son of Man coming in clouds, angels gathering the elect, and the fig tree lesson.

Liturgical Significance

How does the liturgical year prepare for Advent? The liturgical year ends with end times readings to prepare for the Advent season of hope, awaiting the coming of the newborn king Jesus.

Theological Interpretation

What is the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection in relation to the Temple's destruction? Jesus' death and resurrection brought hope and new life, contrasting with the despair caused by the Temple's destruction.

Spiritual Message

What is the key message about hope in the context of these events? God aims to plant invincible hope in the heart, even amidst events that feel like the end of the world.

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SOURCE: Uganda Catholic Television

Children are invited to come together in prayer and preparation for Jesus’ return, while also engaging in creative activities like jewelry-making to express their faith and support for others.

KEY INSIGHTS w/ QUESTIONS

Preparation for Christ's Return

How should we prepare for Jesus' second coming? Prepare daily by loving, helping, and forgiving others, while praying and readying our hearts to receive Christ with warmth and smiles.

What does the Gospel of Mark 13:24-32 teach about Christ's return? It instructs us to remain vigilant and alert for Jesus' coming, as the exact time is unknown.

Prayer and Remembrance

What special focus does November have in the Catholic faith? November is dedicated to praying for the souls of the dead, especially those who have no one to pray for them.

Judgment and Vigilance

What is the purpose of Christ's second coming according to the Creed? Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead, emphasizing the need for constant preparedness.

Scriptural References

Which key Bible passages discuss Christ's return? The Gospel of Mark 13:24-32 and the Book of Daniel 12:1-3 provide significant teachings on Christ's second coming and final judgment.

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SOURCE: Redemptorist Publications

The message of hope and support from Jesus encourages us to recognize signs of change in our lives and to embody love and compassion for others, especially during challenging times.

KEY INSIGHTS w/ QUESTIONS

Understanding Jesus' Teachings

Q: What does Jesus mean by "reading the signs of the times"?
A: Jesus encourages us to be aware of our surroundings and notice when others need help, such as recognizing if a friend or family member is having a hard day and requires support.

Q: How can we be "Jesus for others"?
A: We can embody Jesus by bringing his love, joy, peace, and hope to others, especially when they're experiencing difficulties, and reminding them that Jesus cares for them.

Practical Application of Faith

Q: What are some examples of "reading the signs of the times"?
A: Examples include noticing if someone is quieter than usual or if a family member seems distracted, and taking action by approaching them and asking, "Are you okay?"

Q: How can we emulate Jesus' qualities in our daily lives?
A: We can strive to be kind, loving, caring, patient, hopeful, and joyful like Jesus, even when we're having a bad day ourselves.

Spiritual Guidance

Q: How does Jesus support us in difficult times?
A: Jesus is always with us, even when we're not physically together, and wants us to maintain great hope and awareness of our surroundings, even when it's challenging to sense his presence.

Q: What should we do when we see others struggling?
A: Jesus encourages us to love them more and be there for them, offering support and embodying his teachings to help them through their difficulties.

BIG AL & FATHER JOE

33rd Sunday of Year B

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SOURCE: Most Sacred Heart Parish, Eureka, MO

Prayer and positive activities can help individuals cope with life’s unfairness and challenges by reminding them of their blessings and preparing them for tough times.

CATHOLIC MOM

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HANDOUTS

33rd Sunday of Year B

SDC WORKSHEETCATHOLIC KIDS BULLETINCATHOLIC MOM WORD SEARCH

Download 8 1/2 x 10 (PDF)

S.D.C. is a Catholic Society that works in the field of Catechesis and the spreading of the Word of God in different ways.  READ MORE
SOURCE: SDC Sunday Liturgy Resources

Download 4-pages (PDF)

The Kids’ Bulletins are a resource for Catholic kids who would like to have some fun while learning about the readings from the Sunday Mass every week. (Ordinary Form)  They are made by a mom in Canada who is happy to share them with anyone who can use them to help learn or teach about the truth and beauty of the Faith.
SOURCE: Catholic Kids Bulletin

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Enjoy Catholic coloring pages, lesson plans, Mass worksheets, puzzles, and more to help you prepare for Sunday Mass. These activities, prepared by the Catholic Mom Sunday Gospel Team, are free for you to print and share with your family, classroom, or parish.
SOURCE: Catholic Mom

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OBJECT LESSONS

33rd Sunday of Year B

MINISTRY TO CHILDRENSERMON 4 KIDSSERMON WRITERBOOK OF THE WEEK
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SOURCE: Ministry to Children

CRAFT IDEAS

KEY INSIGHTS w/ QUESTIONS

Jesus' Second Coming

Q: How should believers prepare for Jesus' Second Coming?
A: Stay awake and watchful every day, not just at night, as Jesus' return will be sudden and unexpected, like a master returning home at any time (Mark 13:32-37).

Q: What signs will precede Jesus' Second Coming?
A: Frightening events including the sun and moon darkening, stars falling, and powers shaken, but believers can prepare by loving God and hoping in him daily.

God's Promises and Word

Q: Why can believers trust in Jesus' promises?
A: Jesus promised to keep his promises, including sending a Messiah and returning for believers, demonstrating his unwavering love and care even in unpredictable times.

Q: What did Jesus say about the permanence of his words?
A: Jesus stated that heaven and earth will pass away, but his words will remain forever, providing believers with peace and encouragement during uncertain times.

Hope and Preparation

Q: How should believers view Jesus' Second Coming?
A: As a wonderful day when Jesus takes believers to be with him, just as he came as a baby to save us from sin, so one can anticipate it with joy and hope.

Q: How does Jesus' Second Coming relate to modern life?
A: It serves as a reminder to be prepared for the unexpected and to trust in God's promises, even when life is unpredictable, as experienced by the speaker with canceled plans and virtual events.

There’s a Great Day Coming

OBJECTS: A calendar with some important dates marked on it.

This calendar is very important to me. I have a circle drawn around the most important days of the year on this calendar. Do you see the circle around this date? That’s my birthday. Every year my birthday is the same day. I always know when it is. Here is Christmas Day. That’s an important day, isn’t it? December 25th is Christmas day. It may be any day of the week, but it is ALWAYS on December 25th. Your birthday is an important day too. If I want to be sure to remember your birthday, I will draw a circle around it and write a note that says, this is Mary’s birthday. That way I will always know when it is your birthday.

In our Bible lesson today, Jesus told his followers that a very important day was coming. He told them that a day was coming when people would see him coming in the clouds with power and glory. He told them that on that day he would send his angels to gather his people and take them home to heaven to be with him.

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SOURCE: Sermon 4 Kids

Be Ready

OBJECTS: Camera, tripod, camera batteries, lens, or other miscellaneous camera equipment. Interesting photographs.

It is fun to take pictures and have them to look at later. Do you like to look at your baby pictures and see what you looked like then? Do you have a picture of a special birthday party or a Christmas celebration with your family? A picture helps us remember those good times. Maybe you have a picture of a flower, a sunset, or snow on a mountain that makes you feel peaceful. I know of a little boy who kept a picture of his mommy in his pocket on his first day of school as a way of keeping her close.

Professional photographers make their living taking pictures. Some photograph weddings and others take portraits – close up pictures of people’s faces. Still others photograph sports events, animals, or things in nature such as trees, rivers, and clouds.

Photographers must always be ready to take a picture at just the right moment and often those moments come unexpectedly. It may be a baby’s smile, or a picture of a soccer player scoring a goal, or a butterfly that appears without warning.

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SOURCE: Sermon Writer

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STORY TIME (7:59)

Word of the Week

PERSEVERANCE

Wangari’s Trees of Peace

This is the true story of Wangari Maathan, a young girl growing up in Kenya. During her childhood, Wangari’s village was always surrounded by trees and the songs of birds. A very bright student, Wangari is awarded a scholarship to study in the United States and is away for six years. When she returns home to Kenya, she is shocked to see the barren land: deforestation has taken place while she has been away, and the trees and bird songs are all gone. Wangari is determined to do something, and so she plants nine seedling trees. Although Wangari faces ridicule and imprisonment, she perseveres in her pursuit to do good.

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SOURCE: Markkula Center for Applied Ethics