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Breaking Open the Word at Home: Third Sunday of Advent

Sunday Mass Readings for the Ministry of Parents and Godparents

The Church professes Christian parents to be the “first” teachers of the faith and calls them to be the “best” teachers of the faith (The Rite of Infant Baptism). Godparents agree to assist in this ministry of parents. This resource from Catholic Lane is to assist you, parent or godparent, with using the Sunday Mass readings to teach the Catholic Faith and live the Catholic Faith as a family.

December 16th, 2018: The Third Sunday of Advent: Zephaniah 3:14-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Luke 3:10-18

SUMMARY OF READINGS

Advent is nearing its end and Christmas will soon be upon us. The first reading is a proclamation of the joy that comes from God.

The second reading continues the theme of joy and rejoicing, while calling us to let go of anxiety and find peace in God.

The Gospel this week gives us the words of Saint John the Baptist, a call to conversion from sin and an expectation of the coming of Jesus.

CATECHETICAL TALKING POINTS

The readings for this Sunday provide an opportunity to reflect upon the call to conversion, expectation, and joy. “CCC” refers to the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

TRUTH IN ACTION

Parents or godparents can also put the catechetical content into action through various activities. Here are just a few examples:

  • Review the promises you made at your Baptism. Review them with your child or godchild.
  • Spend some extra time preparing to receive Jesus in Holy Communion this week.
  • Take your child or godchild to Eucharistic Adoration, of any length, to reflect upon the coming of Jesus.
  • Pray for those that do not know Jesus Christ.

Bookmark Catholiclane.com for future Sunday Mass Readings for the Ministry of Parents and Godparents


Brandon Harvey is a Teacher, Speaker and Theological Consultant who resides in Omaha, Nebraska. He is married and is blessed with four children. He is the host of the Home Catechesis Podcast and the Home Catechesis Review (Vlog) on youtube.