Harcourt Religion Publishers

SUNDAY READINGS

Reading II: Romans 9: 1-5

Gospel: Matthew 14: 22-33

SCRIPTURE BACKGROUND

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Week of August 10, 2008

First Reading:

The reading from Kings refers to a time after the death of King Solomon, when the Israelite kingdom was split in two.
Elijah confronts the unfaithfulness of the people and their leaders.
God comes to Elijah in the stillness of silence.

Second Reading:

In the letter to the Romans, Paul declares the revelation of God in the Israelites.

The messiah, God's fullest revelation, came into the world through them.

Paul is grieved that so many of the Israelites refuse to accept Jesus.

The story of Peter walking on the water is found only in the Gospel of Matthew.
Peter is being prepared for his role as leader. He begins to sink when he takes his eyes off Jesus.
The presence of God in Christ is Peter's strength.

FAITH SHARING QUESTIONS

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Week of August 10, 2008

Theme: If we believe, we will be saved.

HOME ACTIVITIES

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Week of August 10, 2008

Choose one of the following activities as a way to further reflect on the Sunday readings:

The disciples were afraid of the storm but Jesus reassured them that everything would be OK. Discuss how your family can be there for others in the storms of their life.
Pray Psalm 139 as your family prayer this week. Talk about your relationship with God. When do you find it difficult to trust in God? When do you feel close to God?
Seniors have a wealth of stories about the faith they witnessed in their lives. Interview senior members of your family or parish. Ask them about their lives and how their faith in God helped them through difficult times.
Tell about a time when you were involved in a stormy situation. What went wrong? How did you feel? What did you do? Did your faith in God help you to change the situation?