Liturgical Bible Study Guide: Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
Introduction Epiphany means revelation or manifestation. Epiphany was originally an Eastern Church celebration. It was originally and primarily a celebration of baptism, the first Epiphany or manifestation. As the celebration moved westward, it took on the meaning of the revelation of Jesus to the Gentiles. The central point of this celebration is that God’s salvation is intended not only […]
Liturgical Bible Study Guide: Feast of the Holy Family Cycle B
Introduction The Feast of the Holy Family honors the family group of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. This feast developed only in the 17th century. Built on the Gospel accounts, this family is looked upon as an excellent domestic unit representing the ideal family life. To promote family life and build up devotion to the Holy […]
Liturgical Bible Study Guide: 4th Sunday of Advent Cycle B
Introduction Anticipation and preparedness are the watchwords for Advent. Anticipation of the celebration of the birth of our Lord some 2000 years ago and the festivities, gifts, parties and family get-togethers which accompany that celebration. Preparedness because we are reminded that Jesus will come at the end of the world (the parousia) and all will […]
Liturgical Bible Study Guide: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Cycle A
1st Reading – Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31 The book of Proverbs is attributed to Solomon and is the oldest collection of inspired texts in the body of Wisdom literature. The book takes its name from the Hebrew word masal which means “a provocative saying;” a saying which gets the listener’s attention. In the early stages, these sayings […]
Liturgical Bible Study Guide: 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Cycle A
1st Reading – Wisdom 6:12-16 This book, which the Vulgate calls “Wisdom” and the Septuagint calls “The Wisdom of Solomon,” is one of the most typical books of Wisdom literature. Although the book itself claims that it was written by Solomon, it is a case of pseudonymity: a device often used in the ancient world to […]