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Preparing for Year C
By Steven Ellair

Recently I went to the optometrist for a regular checkup. Although I thought I could see just fine and didn’t feel my eyesight had changed in any way, the doctor suggested a different prescription. Still in a bit of disbelief, I tried the new prescription nonetheless and was shocked. The clarity that was revealed through the new lenses was amazing. My vision was completely transformed.

As we approach another liturgical year, the Church offers us another chance to sharpen our vision as disciples, this time through the “lens” of Luke’s Gospel. Described by Dante as “the scribe of the gentleness of Christ,” Luke emphasizes Jesus’ mercy and compassion for the poor, the sinner, the outcast, and the afflicted. Luke uses parables for relaying important insights about Jesus and the identity of a Christian disciple, and some of the most well-known parables, such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, are found only in his writing. Luke is also unmatched in his emphasis on the role of the Spirit, the importance of prayer, and Jesus’ concern for women.

As catechetical leaders, it is always helpful to prepare in advance for the coming liturgical cycle. In this way, we can journey along with the Gospel more fully and assist others in doing the same. As we reflect on the rich themes offered in the Gospel of Luke, our vision will not remain the same. We aren’t just revisiting words whose meaning has been exhausted. What we will find is that our vision becomes sharpened and clarified as the Good News continues to transform our lives.

Here are some ways you might prepare for Year C:

• Read commentaries on Luke.
• Review the Church’s liturgical cycles and look over the readings for Year C.
• Gather with a group to proclaim, listen to, reflect upon, and share Luke’s Gospel.
• Attend or offer a Bible study on Luke’s Gospel.
• Use the Lectionary Background Resources in the Catechists and Teachers link at www.FaithFirst.com for reflections, discussion starters, and thematic connections to the Faith First curriculum.
• Help families prepare for the Gospel reading each week by encouraging them to go to www.FaithFirst.com. Invite them to click on Sunday Gospel Reflections in the Faith First for Families section.
• Assist the whole community in reflecting on the readings, using the Questions of the Week for adults and children. Visit www.WholeCommunityCatechesis.com.
• Incorporate Foundations in Faith as a rich resource that will assist you, a small group, or the larger community in preparing to hear and reflect on God’s word each week.
• Utilize the lectionary-based resource The Faith Connection to help your community further reflect on the weekly readings from Luke’s Gospel.
• Choose one way you will put the Gospel into action in your life and your community.

Adult Formation
The Faith Connection®

Whole Community Catechesis
Online Resource

Sacrament Preparation
Eucharist and Reconciliation

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