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Sunday Mass Readings for the Ministry of Parents and Godparents: October 7th, 2018

The Church calls Christian parents to be the “first” teachers of the faith and 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 about the Catholic Faith and live the Catholic Faith as a family.

“CCC” refers to the Catechism of the Catholic Church

Lectionary Readings for October 7th, 2018: Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

October 7th: Genesis 2:18-24, Hebrews 2:9-11, Mark 10:2-16 (Ordinary Form)

SUMMARY OF READINGS: The first reading, Genesis 2:18-24, ends with insight into the marital union between a man and a woman. The second reading, from Hebrews 2, ends with a declaration that the Baptized are not only adopted sons and daughters of God but also brothers and sisters of Christ. The Gospel, building upon the first reading, is Jesus’ proclamation of the union between a husband and wife that is forged by God and cannot be undone by divorce.

CATECHETICAL TALKING POINTS: This is a perfect weekend to discuss with your children or godchildren, the truth concerning the Sacrament of Matrimony. There are various topics that can be chosen to be relearned by adults and discussed with the youth under their care.

  • An overview of the basics of Matrimony (CCC 1659-1666).
  • The marital bond is established and guaranteed by God (CCC 1639-1640, 1644-1651).
  • The sacramental grace in Matrimony (CCC 1641-1642).
  • Human Sexuality as it relates to Matrimony (CCC 2360-2372)
  • The requirement of Marriage to be open to life (CCC 1652-1654)
  • Marriage and the Christian Family (CCC 1655-1658)

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

  • Pray for the vocation and faithfulness of that vocation of your child or godchild.
  • Invite your children to pray for your marriage.
  • Look at photos or video from your wedding day.
  • Pray the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary and spend extra time reflecting on the Wedding at Cana.
  • Take the child(ren) to a jewelry shop and have your rings cleaned. Allow them the opportunity to see the shine of the rings and talk about the role the rings played in the marriage liturgy.

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.