Year AEasterSeventh Sunday of EasterJohn 17:1-11 Contextual Background: On the eve of his passion, Jesus prays for his disciples: that they may be one, protected in God’s name, and share in his joy and glory. Within the Jewish Tradition: High priestly prayers […]
Year AEasterSixth Sunday of Easter John 14:15-21 Contextual Background: Jesus promises the Advocate (Spirit of truth) to be with the disciples. “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Love and obedience are linked. Within the Jewish Tradition: Love of God and neighbor […]
Year AEasterFifth Sunday of Easter John 14:1-14 Contextual Background: In the farewell discourse, Jesus comforts his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” He assures them of a place in God’s house and declares, “I am the way, the truth, and […]
Year AEasterFourth Sunday of Easter John 10:1-10 Contextual Background: Jesus describes himself as the shepherd who knows the sheep by name, leads them out, and lays down his life. He contrasts his leadership with thieves who come to steal and destroy. The […]
Year AEasterThird Sunday of EasterLuke 24:13-35 Contextual Background: Two disciples walk in grief. The risen Jesus joins them, interprets scripture, and is revealed in the breaking of bread. Their hearts burn, and they return to share the news. Within the Jewish Tradition: […]
Year AEasterSecond Sunday of EasterJohn 20:19-31 Contextual Background: The risen Jesus appears to the disciples, saying “Peace be with you,” showing his wounds, and sending them as he was sent. Thomas later demands to see the wounds before believing; Jesus blesses those […]
Year AEasterResurrection of the Lord Matthew 28:1-10 Contextual Background: At dawn, Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” find the tomb empty. An angel announces resurrection: “He is not here; he has been raised.” They are told to go and tell the disciples. […]
Year AHoly WeekHoly Saturday Matthew 27:57-66 Contextual Background: The Vigil begins in darkness and tells the story of salvation: creation, covenant, exodus, prophets. The climax is resurrection: “He is not here; he has been raised.” Paul declares that in baptism we die […]
Year AHoly WeekMaundy ThursdayJohn 13:1-17, 31b-35 Contextual Background: On the night of betrayal, Jesus takes off his robe, ties a towel, and washes his disciples’ feet — an act reserved for servants. It may be that even servants would not be expected […]
Year ALentLiturgy of the Passion Matthew 27:11-54 Contextual Background: Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey to cries of “Hosanna.” By week’s end, he is betrayed, denied, tried, and crucified. The crowd shifts from praise to condemnation; Rome and religious authorities join to […]