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Why Catholic? GENERATIONS OF FAITH” THEME-------ADVENT 2010-ADVENT 2011   WHY CATHOLIC?
                              

                                           Sixth Sunday of Easter

     The readings this Sunday could remind us of the childhood hymn: “Jesus loves me this I know, ‘cause the Bible tells me so.” Jesus tells us of what the fullness of love consists: “To lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” He exemplifies this love in His own total gift of Himself on the cross. He tells us to do likewise, “ Love one another as I love you.”

     These readings that focus on God’s love, are beautifully appropriate for Mother’s Day.  There’s no greater earthly example of God’s unconditional, life-giving, nurturing, and sacrificial love than the love of a wonderful mother!  Like God, our mothers loved us first—before we could ever respond.  Like God, our moms know us most intimately and love us unconditionally through all the struggles of our lives.  Like the Lord, we know we can count on her to provide constant love, support, encouragement, counsel and a listening ear.  Moms guide us in the way of God’s commandments, because they desire what Jesus desires for us: fruitful lives and complete joy. Thank You, Lord, for mothers whose lives are shinning reflections of Your love. (Adapted from the My Daily Visitor reading).

   We find this theme echoed in today’s Gospel reading through the image of a vine its branches. John uses this metaphor to describe the intimate relationship between Jesus and believers. The Father prunes the branches and causes them to grow more fruit. Only the one who bears fruit in this manner is a true disciple lives the life of Christ. The second reading offers some advice: Love, not in word or speech, but in deed and truth.

     If you have signed up for Why Catholic? and have not been contacted by a small group leader, please contact Glory Kramer, 765-5476 x 231 or gkramer@stjames-etown.org.
The Celebration of the Christian Mystery: Sacraments book is available for purchase at $10 each. You may stop by the parish office, or request a book through your group leader.  A supplementary book for the sessions, United States Catholic Catechism for Adults, is available at Word of God Bookstore (next to Clark’s Jewelers, on Poplar) at a discounted rate for Why? participants.