Readings and Themes for the Week of November 1, 2009

Readings for Faith Sharing
Week of November 01, 2009,
Solemnity of All Saints

Reading I Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14

The saints rejoice in the heavenly liturgy.

Psalm 24

“Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.”

Reading II John 3:1-3

We shall be like God.

Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12a

Jesus offers a glimpse into the kingdom.

THEME:
We become blest by being children of God.

This festival day offers a glimpse into the wonders of heaven. The book of Revelation tells of heaven’s glory, of the brightly robed saints who bear the palm branches of eternal life. The First Letter of John says in simple and beautiful language something that is more than anyone can imagine, we shall be like God. The Lord Jesus has the last word about the inhabitants of heaven: Blessed are the persecuted, the sorrowful, the peacemakers, and the lowly. These are the children of God.

Question for Children:

When have you become a peacemaker?

Among your friends? In your family? At school? Other times?

Question for Youth:

All Saints Day gives us a chance to remember the saints of our Church and of our lives. Who are the people who have been saints in your life?

Question for Adults:

When you heard the Beatitudes today, which one did you hear most clearly as a summons for your own life?