May 1 – Friday (St. Joseph the Worker)

Gospel Reading: Mt 13:54–58
Context: Jesus returns to Nazareth, the village where he grew up. In a small town, everyone remembers him as the boy who helped in the carpenter’s shop. When he begins to teach with profound wisdom and perform miracles, the locals are not happy; they are offended. They try to limit him by his humble background, calling him “the carpenter’s son.” Jesus feels the sting of being rejected by his own neighbors and old friends. Despite their lack of faith, he stays true to his mission, though he is amazed by their closed hearts. This day reminds us that even Jesus faced the pain of being misunderstood by those who should have known him best.
Word: “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” (Mt 13:55)

• Engage 1: Jesus keeps going with his work even when people look down on him or judge him because of his past.
• Incidents: Jesus stays on the Cross even when mockers tell him to prove himself by coming down (Mt 27:42); Jesus continues to teach even when his own relatives think he has lost his mind (Mk 3:21)
  (We can imitate this by not letting other people’s labels or low opinions stop us from doing what God wants us to do.)
• Engage 2: Jesus shows us that simple, physical work is a holy way to help others and serve God.
• Incidents: Jesus prepares a charcoal fire and cooks a warm breakfast for his tired friends (Jn 21:9); Jesus washes the dusty, travel-stained feet of his disciples (Jn 13:5)
  (We can imitate this by offering our daily chores or jobs as a prayer and a way to help others.)

May 2 – Saturday (St. Athanasius)

Gospel Reading: Jn 14:7–14
Context: During his final meal with the disciples, Jesus is trying to explain his deep relationship with God. Philip, speaking for the group, makes a very human request: “Lord, show us the Father.” They are still looking for a grand, terrifying vision of God in the clouds. Jesus gently corrects them. He explains that if they want to know what God is like, they only need to look at how He has treated them. Every act of kindness and every healing they saw Jesus perform was actually the Father working through him. He is inviting them into a circle of friendship where his own power and relationship with God are shared with them.
Word: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” (Jn 14:9)

• Engage 1: Jesus is very open with his friends, inviting them to look at how he lives to see what God is really like.
• Incidents: Jesus invites the first disciples to “come and see” how he lives before they follow him (Jn 1:39); Jesus reveals his true glory on the mountain to his three closest friends (Mt 17:1-2)
  (We can imitate this by living honestly so that our actions show God’s love to everyone we meet.)
• Engage 2: Jesus trusts his followers by promising they will do great things through the power of prayer.
• Incidents: Jesus sends out seventy-two disciples to heal and preach in his name (Lk 10:1); Jesus gives his disciples authority to cast out evil and heal the sick (Mt 10:1)
  (We can imitate this by encouraging people and trusting them with tasks that help them grow.)

May 3 – Fifth Sunday of Easter

Gospel Reading: Jn 14:1–12
Context: The disciples are paralyzed by fear because Jesus has just told them he is leaving. The atmosphere in the room is heavy with the thought of being alone. Jesus speaks directly to their racing hearts. He doesn’t give them a complicated theological lecture; he gives them a beautiful picture of a home. He describes heaven as his “Father’s house” with many rooms, and he promises that he is going there specifically to prepare a place for each of them. He wants them to know that their future is secure because their best friend is already there waiting for them. He turns their fear of the unknown into a promise of belonging.
Word: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” (Jn 14:1)

• Engage 1: Jesus thinks ahead and takes the time to comfort his friends about their fears for the future.
• Incidents: Jesus warns Peter about his upcoming failure not to shame him, but to help him recover later (Lk 22:31-32); Jesus explains the meaning of his death to the Emmaus disciples to heal their broken hearts (Lk 24:25-27)
  (We can imitate this by noticing when others are worried and offering them kind words of hope.)
• Engage 2: Jesus says he is the “Way,” showing that being his friend is all the guidance we need in life.
• Incidents: Jesus calls Peter out of the boat and onto the water, teaching him to trust his presence in the storm (Mt 14:29); Jesus tells the man born blind to go and wash, giving him a specific path to sight (Jn 9:7)
  (We can imitate this by helping people build a friendship with God instead of just giving them a list of rules.)

May 4 – Monday (5th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 14:21–26
Context: Jesus is still talking to his friends about the time after he is gone. He promises that he won’t leave them to figure everything out on their own. He says the Father will send a “Helper”—the Holy Spirit—who will teach them and remind them of everything Jesus said. He explains that love for him isn’t just an emotion, but a choice to live by his teachings. One of the disciples, Judas (not Iscariot), is confused about why Jesus doesn’t just show his glory to the whole world. Jesus explains that true friendship with God is an internal, personal experience that happens when we make a home for Him in our hearts.
Word: “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit… will teach you everything.” (Jn 14:26)

• Engage 1: Jesus prepares his friends well by giving them a “Helper” so they never have to feel alone or lost.
• Incidents: Jesus sends the disciples out two by two so they always have a partner for support (Mk 6:7); Jesus promises to be with his followers until the very end of time (Mt 28:20)
  (We can imitate this by making sure that when we ask someone to do a task, we give them the support they need.)
• Engage 2: Jesus cares more about what is inside our hearts than how we look on the outside.
• Incidents: Jesus tells the Pharisee that cleaning the inside of the cup is more important than the outside (Mt 23:26); Jesus praises the poor widow because her small gift came from a sincere heart (Mk 12:43-44)
  (We can imitate this by focusing on our character and being honest, rather than just trying to look good to others.)

May 5 – Tuesday (5th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 14:27–31
Context: The time of the arrest is getting very close. Jesus can feel the pressure building, yet his main concern is for the peace of his disciples. He offers them a “Peace” that is different from the world’s peace—it isn’t just the absence of trouble, but a deep inner calm that comes from knowing God is in control. He tells them not to be afraid of the “ruler of this world” who is coming. Jesus shows a brave, selfless love by remaining calm for their sake, even as he prepares to face the darkest moment of his life. He wants his friends to see that his upcoming sacrifice is an act of love for the Father.
Word: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” (Jn 14:27)

• Engage 1: Jesus is unselfish and brave because he focuses on helping his friends feel calm even when he is about to suffer.
• Incidents: Jesus comforts the women of Jerusalem while he is carrying his own heavy Cross (Lk 23:28); Jesus ensures his mother is cared for while he is hanging in agony on the Cross (Jn 19:26-27)
  (We can imitate this by trying to be a peaceful presence for others even when we are going through hard times ourselves.)
• Engage 2: Jesus shows total trust in God, refusing to let the problems of the world shake his inner peace.
• Incidents: Jesus sleeps peacefully in the back of the boat during a violent storm at sea (Mk 4:38); Jesus stands silently and peacefully before the powerful governor, Pilate (Mt 27:11-14)
  (We can imitate this by trusting God quietly when things around us feel messy or scary.)

May 6 – Wednesday (5th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 15:1–8
Context: Jesus uses a very familiar picture for the people of Israel—the grapevine. In a vineyard, a branch can only grow grapes if it stays attached to the main vine. If it breaks off, it withers and dies. Jesus says he is the “True Vine” and we are the branches. He is teaching his friends that their strength and their ability to do good things don’t come from their own willpower, but from staying connected to him. He describes a life of “remaining” in his love. This isn’t about being busy; it’s about being connected. He wants them to know that apart from this friendship, they can do nothing meaningful.
Word: “I am the vine, you are the branches.” (Jn 15:5)

• Engage 1: Jesus shows us how to rely on God by living a life that is always connected to the Father’s will.
• Incidents: Jesus says he only does what he sees the Father doing (Jn 5:19); Jesus goes to a quiet place to pray before starting a busy day of ministry (Mk 1:35)
  (We can imitate this by admitting we need help and staying close to God through daily prayer.)
• Engage 2: Jesus wants us to live “fruitful” lives, meaning he wants our actions to produce kindness and love for others.
• Incidents: Jesus heals the man with the withered hand to show that doing good is always the priority (Mk 3:4-5); Jesus spends his time feeding and healing thousands of people because he is moved by their needs (Mt 14:14)
  (We can imitate this by making sure our actions are actually helping people and spreading love.)

May 7 – Thursday (5th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 15:9–11
Context: Jesus speaks about the “joy” that comes from being his friend. He tells the disciples that he loves them with the same intense love that the Father has for him. He isn’t giving them commandments as a burden; he is giving them a secret to happiness. He says that if they keep his commandments—which are all about love—his own joy will live inside them, and their joy will be “complete.” In this moment, Jesus reveals his motive: he doesn’t want servants who obey out of fear, but friends who are overflowing with the same happiness and love that he experiences.
Word: “I have told you this so that my joy might be in you.” (Jn 15:11)

• Engage 1: Jesus wants his followers to be truly happy, showing that following God is about joy, not just hard duty.
• Incidents: Jesus attends a wedding feast and provides the best wine to keep the celebration going (Jn 2:1-10); Jesus rejoices and praises God when his disciples succeed in their mission (Lk 10:21)
  (We can imitate this by helping others with a happy heart, knowing God’s love is meant to be enjoyed.)
• Engage 2: Jesus invites us to share in a life of love, treating us with the same affection that God has for him.
• Incidents: Jesus calls his disciples “friends” and shares all his secrets with them (Jn 15:15); Jesus takes his three closest friends with him to share in his most sacred moments (Mk 9:2)
  (We can imitate this by making our relationships about sharing life and love instead of just doing chores for each other.)

May 8 – Friday (5th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 15:12–17
Context: Jesus gives his disciples one specific command: “Love one another as I have loved you.” He then defines the highest form of love—laying down one’s life for a friend. This is a very emotional moment because Jesus is about to do exactly that for them. He stops calling them “servants” and officially calls them “friends.” A servant just follows orders, but a friend knows the heart and the reasons behind the work. Jesus has shared everything with them. He wants them to know that he chose them first; they didn’t have to win his friendship. It was a free gift of his heart.
Word: “I have called you friends.” (Jn 15:15)

• Engage 1: Jesus is an inclusive friend who chooses ordinary people to be his close companions and shares his heart with them.
• Incidents: Jesus shares the intimate Passover meal with his disciples despite knowing their weaknesses (Lk 22:14-15); Jesus spends time in the homes of people like Martha and Mary, sharing simple, everyday life (Lk 10:38-42)
  (We can imitate this by being open with our friends and treating them as equals.)
• Engage 2: Jesus takes the lead in loving us, choosing to give his life for us before we even asked for his help.
• Incidents: Jesus heals the man at the pool who didn’t even know who Jesus was (Jn 5:13); Jesus prays for the forgiveness of those who are in the act of crucifying him (Lk 23:34)
  (We can imitate this by being the first one to be kind or to forgive, without waiting for the other person to do it first.)

May 9 – Saturday (5th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 15:18–21
Context: Jesus gives his friends a realistic warning. He tells them that because they are his friends, the world might treat them harshly, just as it has treated him. In this culture, being “hated” meant being an outsider or a social outcast. Jesus is honest with them: following him won’t always lead to popularity. He explains that the world often reacts poorly to the light of God. He wants them to be prepared for the pressure so that when it comes, they won’t feel surprised or abandoned. He identifies with them, promising that they are suffering because they belong to him.
Word: “If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first.” (Jn 15:18)

• Engage 1: Jesus is honest about how hard life can be, rather than promising his friends that everything will be easy.
• Incidents: Jesus tells a potential follower that the Son of Man has no place to lay his head (Mt 8:20); Jesus tells the disciples they will be dragged before governors and kings for his sake (Mt 10:18)
  (We can imitate this by being truthful with others about challenges, so they are ready to face them.)
• Engage 2: Jesus stands with his friends by reminding them that he has already gone through the same hard times they are facing.
• Incidents: Jesus stands up to defend the woman caught in adultery against an angry crowd (Jn 8:7); Jesus tells his disciples to “take courage” because he has already overcome the world (Jn 16:33)
  (We can imitate this by standing by people who are being treated badly and letting them know they aren’t alone.)

May 10 – Sixth Sunday of Easter

Gospel Reading: Jn 14:15–21
Context: In the Upper Room, Jesus is looking into the eyes of men who will soon be orphans. He knows that without him, they will feel lost and defenseless. He promises to ask the Father for “another Advocate”—the Holy Spirit—who will be their constant, internal companion. Jesus explains that love is more than just words; it is shown by keeping his commandments of love. He makes a staggering promise: he won’t leave them like fatherless children. He will come to them and live inside them. This is the promise of permanent friendship that physical distance or even death cannot break.
Word: “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” (Jn 14:18)

• Engage 1: Jesus is a loyal protector who makes sure his friends never have to struggle by themselves.
• Incidents: Jesus stays in the boat during the storm, ensuring his disciples reach the other side safely (Mk 4:38-40); Jesus stands by Paul during his trial, telling him to take courage (Acts 23:11)
  (We can imitate this by being a reliable friend who shows up and stays when someone is in trouble.)
• Engage 2: Jesus invites us into a life of love where our actions show how much we care about him.
• Incidents: Jesus calls the disciples his “friends” if they do what he commands (Jn 15:14); Jesus reveals the Father’s love to the Samaritan woman, inviting her into a new life (Jn 4:10)
  (We can imitate this by showing our love through what we do, which builds deeper trust in our relationships.)

May 11 – Monday (6th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 15:26—16:4
Context: Jesus continues to talk about the Holy Spirit, whom he calls the “Spirit of Truth.” He explains that this Spirit will speak the truth about Jesus and will also help the disciples to be witnesses. He gives them another hard warning: people will kick them out of the synagogues and some might even think they are serving God by killing them. Jesus tells them this “so that you may not fall away.” He is acting like a good captain preparing his crew for a storm. He knows that if they are prepared mentally, they will be stronger spiritually.
Word: “When the Advocate comes… he will testify to me.” (Jn 15:26)

• Engage 1: Jesus is honest because he wants to protect his friends; he tells them the truth about the future so they aren’t caught off guard.
• Incidents: Jesus warns Peter three times that he will deny him, helping Peter’s eventual repentance (Lk 22:34); Jesus tells the disciples about his upcoming death multiple times to prepare them (Mt 16:21)
  (We can imitate this by having the courage to say difficult things that help others stay safe or do the right thing.)
• Engage 2: Jesus values the truth, showing that a real friendship is built on honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable.
• Incidents: Jesus tells the wealthy young man the hard truth that his riches are keeping him from God (Mk 10:21); Jesus rebukes Peter for thinking like the world instead of like God (Mt 16:23)
  (We can imitate this by being people of integrity who choose what is true over what is easy.)

May 12 – Tuesday (6th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 16:5–11
Context: The disciples are silent and sad because Jesus said he is leaving. Jesus gently points out that they are so focused on their own loss that they haven’t even asked where he is going. He tells them a surprising truth: “It is better for you that I go.” He explains that if he stays, the Holy Spirit cannot come to live within them. Jesus is showing a very selfless love; he is willing to leave his physical presence behind so that his friends can receive an even greater gift—the Spirit of God inside their own hearts.
Word: “It is better for you that I go.” (Jn 16:7)

• Engage 1: Jesus shows selfless love by being willing to step back so his friends can grow and get what they really need.
• Incidents: Jesus sends the disciples across the lake ahead of him so they can practice their faith in a storm (Mk 6:45); Jesus tells Mary Magdalene not to “hold onto him” so he can return to the Father and send the Spirit (Jn 20:17)
  (We can imitate this by knowing when to move aside and let others take the lead or find their own strength.)
• Engage 2: Jesus focuses on what is best for his friends in the long run, even if it means a painful goodbye for a little while.
• Incidents: Jesus goes to the desert for forty days to pray and prepare for the mission that will save the world (Mt 4:1-2); Jesus chooses to go to Jerusalem to die, knowing it is the only way to bring eternal life to all (Lk 9:51)
  (We can imitate this by making choices that help others in the future, even if those choices are hard right now.)

May 13 – Wednesday (6th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 16:12–15
Context: Jesus looks at his disciples and realizes they are at their limit. He has so much more to tell them about God and the future, but he says, “You cannot bear it now.” This shows a very human, sensitive side of Jesus. He doesn’t dump all the information on them at once. He promises that the Spirit of Truth will guide them “into all truth” slowly, at the right pace. Jesus shows that he is a teacher who cares about the emotional capacity of his students. He trusts that their friendship will continue to grow through the Spirit even after he is gone.
Word: “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now.” (Jn 16:12)

• Engage 1: Jesus is very thoughtful; he doesn’t give his friends more than they can handle at one time.
• Incidents: Jesus uses simple stories (parables) to teach the crowds because they weren’t ready for direct spiritual mysteries (Mk 4:33); Jesus stays with the disciples for forty days after rising, teaching them as they were able to understand (Acts 1:3)
  (We can imitate this by being patient as people learn and not expecting them to know everything at once.)
• Engage 2: Jesus shows us a partnership of sharing, giving us everything he has received from God.
• Incidents: Jesus shares the “glory” he received from the Father with his disciples (Jn 17:22); Jesus gives his disciples the same power to heal and preach that he has (Lk 9:1)
  (We can imitate this by being generous with what we know and what we have to help others.)

May 14 – Thursday (St. Matthias, Apostle)

Gospel Reading: Jn 15:9–17
Context: On this feast of Matthias, who was chosen to replace Judas, the Gospel reminds us of the core of an Apostle’s life: being a friend of Jesus. Jesus tells them that he doesn’t want them to be “slaves” who just do what they are told without understanding. He calls them “friends” because he has shared his Father’s heart with them. He reminds them that he is the one who chose them. He is building a community based on love, not on rank or power. Matthias was one of the men who had been with Jesus from the beginning, witnessing this humble and inviting friendship.
Word: “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you.” (Jn 15:16)

• Engage 1: Jesus takes the first step by picking ordinary people to be his best friends and choosing them first.
• Incidents: Jesus calls simple fishermen like Peter and Andrew to leave their nets and follow him (Mt 4:18-19); Jesus sees the tax collector Matthew and chooses him to be an Apostle (Mt 9:9)
  (We can imitate this by reaching out to people who feel lonely or left out and being the first one to be kind.)
• Engage 2: Jesus believes that staying connected in love is more important than any job or project.
• Incidents: Jesus tells Martha that her sister Mary chose the “better part” by simply sitting and listening to him (Lk 10:42); Jesus invites his tired disciples to come away to a quiet place just to rest with him (Mk 6:31)
  (We can imitate this by making our relationships and our time with God more important than our busy “to-do” lists.)

May 15 – Friday (6th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 16:20–23
Context: Jesus uses the beautiful, human image of a woman in labor to explain the pain the disciples are feeling. He says that while she is giving birth, she is in anguish, but as soon as the baby is born, her joy is so great that she forgets the pain. He tells his friends that they are in their “time of pain” now, but he will see them again. When that happens, their hearts will rejoice with a joy that “no one will take from you.” Jesus is showing deep empathy for their sadness, but he is also giving them a perspective that turns their suffering into the “birth pains” of a new, joyful life.
Word: “Your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” (Jn 16:22)

• Engage 1: Jesus understands our feelings deeply; he uses everyday examples to show his friends that their pain will eventually turn into joy.
• Incidents: Jesus is moved to tears when he sees the grief of Mary and Martha at the tomb of Lazarus (Jn 11:33-35); Jesus feels “pity” for the widow of Nain and tells her “Do not weep” before healing her son (Lk 7:13)
  (We can imitate this by listening to people when they are hurting and helping them see that there is hope for the future.)
• Engage 2: Jesus offers us a joy that cannot be broken, promising a happiness that stays strong even during trouble.
• Incidents: Jesus rejoices in the Holy Spirit and praises God even when he is facing rejection (Lk 10:21); Jesus tells the disciples to be glad and rejoice even when they are mistreated for doing good (Mt 5:12)
  (We can imitate this by keeping a peaceful heart that doesn’t depend on everything going perfectly.)

May 16 – Saturday (6th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 16:23–28
Context: Jesus is preparing the disciples to have a direct relationship with the Father. He tells them that up until now, they haven’t asked for anything in his name, but now they should. He says something very beautiful: “The Father himself loves you because you have loved me.” Jesus is stepping out of the way as the “middleman” and introducing them to the Father as their own Father. He is sharing his own family with them. He explains that he came from the Father into the world, and now he is leaving the world to go back home. He wants his friends to feel the same confidence and love that he feels when he speaks to God.
Word: “The Father himself loves you because you have loved me.” (Jn 16:27)

• Engage 1: Jesus is very generous by sharing his own Father with his friends and inviting them to have the same close relationship.
• Incidents: Jesus teaches his disciples to pray by calling God “Our Father,” just as he does (Mt 6:9); Jesus tells Mary Magdalene to tell the disciples he is going to “My Father and your Father” (Jn 20:17)
  (We can imitate this by introducing our friends to each other and building a community of support.)
• Engage 2: Jesus encourages us to be bold when we pray, wanting us to ask for what we need so we can be fully happy.
• Incidents: Jesus tells the story of the friend who knocks at midnight to encourage persistent prayer (Lk 11:5-8); Jesus tells the blind Bartimaeus to ask specifically for what he wants (Mk 10:51)
  (We can imitate this by being honest about our needs and asking for help when we need it.)

May 17 – The Ascension of the Lord

Gospel Reading: Mt 28:16–20
Context: On a mountain in Galilee, the eleven disciples meet the risen Jesus. In a very human detail, the Gospel says that though they worshiped him, “some doubted.” Jesus doesn’t get angry at their hesitation. He moves toward them and declares that he has all authority in heaven and on earth. He then gives them a massive, worldwide mission: to make disciples of all nations. But he ends with the most important promise of all: “I am with you always.” He isn’t flying away to a distant heaven to leave them alone; he is changing the way he is present. He promises to be their invisible companion in every single moment until the end of time.
Word: “Behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Mt 28:20)

• Engage 1: Jesus shows he trusts everyone by giving a huge mission to his friends, even though they were still struggling with doubt.
• Incidents: Jesus chooses Thomas the doubter to be one of his main witnesses (Jn 20:27-28); Jesus calls Peter to be the leader of the Church even after he had publicly failed (Jn 21:15-17)
  (We can imitate this by trusting people with responsibility even when they aren’t perfect, to help them grow.)
• Engage 2: Jesus gives us total security by promising to always be with us in our normal, everyday lives.
• Incidents: Jesus appears to the disciples while they are working on their fishing boat (Jn 21:4); Jesus walks with two discouraged friends on their long walk home (Lk 24:15)
  (We can imitate this by being there for our friends and letting them know they can always count on us.)

May 18 – Monday (7th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 16:29–33
Context: The disciples finally feel like they understand Jesus. They tell him, “Now you are speaking plainly!” But Jesus knows they still don’t realize how weak they are. He warns them that the hour is coming when they will all be scattered and will leave him alone. Yet, he immediately adds, “But I am not alone, because the Father is with me.” He tells them these things not to make them feel guilty, but so that they will find “peace” in him. He knows the world will be hard for them, but he gives them his final battle cry: “Take courage, I have overcome the world.” He is the Hero who wins the war so his friends can live in peace.
Word: “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” (Jn 16:33)

• Engage 1: Jesus shows he is forgiving by knowing his friends will fail him, but offering them peace instead of blaming them.
• Incidents: Jesus looks at Peter with mercy immediately after Peter denied him (Lk 22:61); Jesus greets the disciples who abandoned him with the word “Peace” when he first sees them after the Resurrection (Jn 20:19)
  (We can imitate this by choosing to forgive people before they even make a mistake and being ready to be kind afterward.)
• Engage 2: Jesus has a victorious heart, refusing to let hard times crush his spirit or stop him from loving his friends.
• Incidents: Jesus continues to heal and help others even while he is being arrested (Lk 22:51); Jesus promises Paradise to a dying criminal while he is himself dying in agony (Lk 23:43)
  (We can imitate this by staying positive and helping others even when things are going wrong for us.)

May 19 – Tuesday (7th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 17:1–11
Context: Jesus stops talking to the disciples and starts talking to the Father. He begins his great “High Priestly Prayer.” He asks the Father to “glorify” him so that he can glorify the Father. He looks back at his life and says he has finished the work God gave him to do. But then his prayer shifts to his friends. He says that he is not praying for the whole world right now, but specifically for those the Father gave him. He calls them “his glory.” He is about to leave the world, but they are staying in it. He begs the Father to “keep them in your name” so that they can be one, just as he and the Father are one.
Word: “I pray for them… because they are yours.” (Jn 17:9)

• Engage 1: Jesus spends his last moments of freedom praying for the safety and unity of his friends.
• Incidents: Jesus tells Peter that he has prayed specifically for him so that his faith might not fail (Lk 22:32); Jesus prays for all those who will believe in him in the future, including us (Jn 17:20)
  (We can imitate this by making it a habit to pray for our friends and family, especially when they have problems.)
• Engage 2: Jesus shows us how much we matter to him by saying that his friends are his greatest pride and joy.
• Incidents: Jesus praises the faith of the Roman centurion in front of the whole crowd (Mt 8:10); Jesus commends Mary for her act of love, saying it will be remembered wherever the Gospel is preached (Mk 14:9)
  (We can imitate this by seeing the best in people and telling them how much we value them.)

May 20 – Wednesday (7th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 17:11–19
Context: Jesus continues his prayer for the disciples. He says that while he was with them, he protected them and “guarded them,” and none were lost. Now that he is leaving, he asks the Father to protect them from “the evil one.” He doesn’t ask God to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe in it. He speaks about the “joy” he wants them to have in abundance. He then says something profound: he “consecrates” himself (sets himself apart for sacrifice) so that they might be consecrated in the truth. Jesus is willing to pay the ultimate price to ensure his friends are holy and safe.
Word: “Consecrate them in the truth; your word is truth.” (Jn 17:17)

• Engage 1: Jesus has a guardian’s heart, taking responsibility for the safety and health of the people he leads.
• Incidents: Jesus steps forward in the Garden to protect his disciples, saying “Let these men go” (Jn 18:8); Jesus feeds the hungry crowd because he is concerned they might collapse on their way home (Mt 15:32)
  (We can imitate this by taking good care of the people we are responsible for and making sure they have what they need.)
• Engage 2: Jesus believes that truth is the foundation of a good life, and he wants his friends to follow God’s word rather than lies.
• Incidents: Jesus tells the woman at the well the truth about her life in a way that helps her change (Jn 4:16-18); Jesus tells the disciples that the truth will set them free (Jn 8:32)
  (We can imitate this by being honest and helping others understand the truth in difficult situations.)

May 21 – Thursday (7th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 17:20–26
Context: In the final part of his prayer, Jesus looks far into the future. He says, “I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word.” He is praying for us. His dream is that all his followers would be “one”—so united in love that the world will see it and believe that God sent him. He wants us to be with him where he is, to see his glory. He ends by saying that he has made the Father’s name known and will continue to do so, so that the very same love God has for Jesus can live inside of us. It is a prayer for total unity and shared love.
Word: “That they may all be one… as you, Father, are in me and I in you.” (Jn 17:21)

• Engage 1: Jesus has a heart for everyone, reaching out through time to pray for every single person who will ever believe in him.
• Incidents: Jesus heals the servant of a foreigner (the Centurion) and praises his faith (Mt 8:5-13); Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan to show that everyone is our “neighbor” (Lk 10:30-37)
  (We can imitate this by being kind to everyone, thinking about how our actions today can help people in the future.)
• Engage 2: Jesus wants his friends to be perfectly united, knowing that being together in love is the best way to show God to the world.
• Incidents: Jesus washes the feet of all the disciples to show them they must serve one another in unity (Jn 13:14-15); Jesus tells his followers that they will be known as his disciples by their love for one another (Jn 13:35)
  (We can imitate this by being peacemakers and trying to bring people together instead of causing arguments.)

May 22 – Friday (7th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 21:15–19
Context: On the shore of Galilee after breakfast, Jesus takes Peter aside for a walk. This is a very tender and important moment. Peter had denied Jesus three times, and he likely felt like a failure. Jesus asks him three times, “Do you love me?” With each answer, Jesus gives Peter a job: “Feed my lambs,” “Tend my sheep.” He doesn’t bring up Peter’s past mistakes. He only asks about his heart. He is restoring Peter to his position as a leader through a conversation of love. He then tells Peter about the difficult future he will face, and ends with the same simple invitation he gave him years ago: “Follow me.”
Word: “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” (Jn 21:16)

• Engage 1: Jesus focuses on helping his friends move forward; he looks at their love and potential instead of their past mistakes.
• Incidents: Jesus restores the sight of the blind man Bartimaeus and then invites him to follow (Mk 10:52); Jesus defends the woman caught in sin and gives her a new start (Jn 8:10-11)
  (We can imitate this by giving people second chances and helping them move past their failures with kindness.)
• Engage 2: Jesus shows us that love is the most important thing we need to lead and serve others.
• Incidents: Jesus says that the greatest among us must be the one who serves the most (Lk 22:26); Jesus calls the tax collector Matthew to be his follower, looking at his heart rather than his unpopular job (Mt 9:9)
  (We can imitate this by checking our own hearts to make sure we are helping people out of love, not for power.)

May 23 – Saturday (7th Week of Easter)

Gospel Reading: Jn 21:20–25
Context: Peter sees the “Beloved Disciple” (John) following them and asks Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” It’s a very human question—Peter is comparing his own difficult future with John’s. Jesus gives a direct but gentle answer: “What if I want him to remain until I come? What is that to you? You follow me.” Jesus is teaching Peter to stop comparing his journey with others. He wants Peter to focus on his own unique friendship with God. The Gospel ends by saying that Jesus did so many other things that all the books in the world couldn’t hold them. It is an invitation to realize that Jesus’ friendship and work are bigger than anything we can imagine.
Word: “What if I want him to remain… What is that to you? You follow me.” (Jn 21:22)

• Engage 1: Jesus gives each of us personal attention, showing that he has a special plan for every single person.
• Incidents: Jesus has a very different, personal conversation with Nicodemus than he has with the woman at the well (Jn 3 & Jn 4); Jesus calls each of his sheep by their own specific name (Jn 10:3)
  (We can imitate this by not comparing our lives to others and respecting everyone’s unique journey.)
• Engage 2: Jesus teaches that we find peace by focusing on him, rather than worrying about what other people are doing.
• Incidents: Jesus tells Martha to stop worrying about what her sister is doing and focus on the “one thing necessary” (Lk 10:41-42); Jesus tells the disciples not to be distracted by who is the “greatest” among them (Mk 9:34-35)
  (We can imitate this by focusing on our own jobs and our own growth in kindness.)

May 24 – Pentecost Sunday

Gospel Reading: Jn 20:19–23
Context: It is the evening of the first Easter, and the disciples are still locked away in fear. Suddenly, Jesus stands in their midst. His first word is “Peace.” He shows them his wounds, connecting their past pain with his current victory. Then, he does something profoundly intimate: he “breathes” on them. This breath recalls the creation of man in Genesis. He is giving them his own life—the Holy Spirit—and sending them out with the power to forgive sins. Pentecost is the day Jesus breathes his own heart and his own mission into his friends, turning a frightened group into a bold, living Church.
Word: “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” (Jn 20:21)

• Engage 1: Jesus brings peace to his friends when they are afraid, helping them feel calm instead of anxious.
• Incidents: Jesus calms the storm with a single word, bringing peace to the terrified disciples (Mk 4:39); Jesus meets Mary Magdalene in her weeping and gives her the peace of his name (Jn 20:16)
  (We can imitate this by being a peaceful presence when things are stressful, helping others feel at ease.)
• Engage 2: Jesus shares his work with us, trusting us to show the same mercy and forgiveness that he showed to others.
• Incidents: Jesus tells the paralyzed man his sins are forgiven before healing his body (Mk 2:5); Jesus defends the woman caught in adultery and offers her a clean start (Jn 8:10-11)
  (We can imitate this by being quick to forgive and showing kindness to everyone in our community.)

May 25 – Monday (8th Week in Ordinary Time)

Gospel Reading: Mk 10:17–27
Context: A wealthy young man runs up to Jesus and kneels down, asking how to get eternal life. He has followed all the rules since he was a boy. The Gospel says something beautiful: “Jesus, looking at him, loved him.” Jesus sees the man’s sincere heart but also sees the one thing holding him back—his many riches. He tells the man to sell everything and give it to the poor. The man goes away sad because he is very rich. Jesus isn’t being harsh; he is trying to set the man free from the “heavy bags” he is carrying. He explains to the disciples that while it is hard for humans to let go, “all things are possible for God.”
Word: “Jesus, looking at him, loved him.” (Mk 10:21)

• Engage 1: Jesus is honestly loving; he loves people deeply but still tells them the hard truth they need to hear to be free.
• Incidents: Jesus tells Martha she is “anxious about many things” to help her find rest (Lk 10:41); Jesus tells the woman at the well the truth about her past to help her find “Living Water” (Jn 4:17-18)
  (We can imitate this by being honest with our friends in a kind way that helps them grow.)
• Engage 2: Jesus wants us to be free from things that distract us from God and from being kind to others.
• Incidents: Jesus tells his disciples to travel light, taking no extra clothes or money (Lk 10:4); Jesus praises the poor widow for giving everything she had to God (Mk 12:44)
  (We can imitate this by simplifying our lives and sharing what we have with people who need it.)

May 26 – Tuesday (8th Week in Ordinary Time)

Gospel Reading: Mk 10:28–31
Context: After seeing the rich man walk away, Peter speaks up: “We have given up everything and followed you.” He is wondering if the sacrifice is worth it. Jesus gives a very generous and warm promise. He says that anyone who has left home, family, or lands for his sake will receive a “hundredfold” back—not just in the future, but “now in this time”—along with the strength to face persecutions. He describes the Church as a new family where we find many brothers, sisters, and mothers. He ends with a warning that “the last will be first,” flipping the world’s idea of success upside down.
Word: “There is no one who has given up… who will not receive a hundredfold.” (Mk 10:29-30)

• Engage 1: Jesus is extremely grateful, promising that God will be very generous to anyone who gives of themselves to help others.
• Incidents: Jesus notices and points out the extreme generosity of the woman who anointed him with expensive oil (Mk 14:6-9); Jesus promises that even a cup of cold water given in his name will be rewarded (Mt 10:42)
  (We can imitate this by being deeply thankful when others help us and being generous back.)
• Engage 2: Jesus gives us a new family, showing that friends who follow God can have bonds as strong as brothers and sisters.
• Incidents: Jesus points to his disciples and says, “Here are my mother and my brothers” (Mt 12:49); Jesus invites his friends to share the most intimate meal of his life with him (Lk 22:15)
  (We can imitate this by treating our friends and neighbors with the same care and loyalty we show our own families.)

May 27 – Wednesday (8th Week in Ordinary Time)

Gospel Reading: Mk 10:32–45
Context: Jesus is walking toward Jerusalem, and the disciples are afraid. He tells them again that he will be arrested and killed. While he is talking about his sacrifice, James and John ask for the “highest seats” in his kingdom. They are still thinking about power. The other disciples get angry. Jesus gently calls them all together. He tells them that in the world, rulers “lord it over” people, but his friends must be different. He says, “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant.” He uses himself as the ultimate example: he didn’t come to be served, but to give his life for everyone.
Word: “The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve.” (Mk 10:45)

• Engage 1: Jesus stays focused on helping others even when his closest friends are being selfish and thinking only of themselves.
• Incidents: Jesus continues to pray for his disciples even when they are sleeping instead of supporting him (Mt 26:40-41); Jesus heals the ear of the man who came to arrest him (Lk 22:51)
  (We can imitate this by focusing on being kind, even if the people around us are just competing for attention.)
• Engage 2: Jesus says that being truly great means being a servant and helping as many people as you can.
• Incidents: Jesus takes the role of the lowest slave by washing his disciples’ feet (Jn 13:14); Jesus spends his time with the “lowly” people that others ignored, like children and lepers (Mt 19:14, Mk 1:41)
  (We can imitate this by looking for small ways to help every day without needing anyone to thank us.)

May 28 – Thursday (8th Week in Ordinary Time)

Gospel Reading: Mk 10:46–52
Context: As Jesus leaves Jericho, a blind man named Bartimaeus is sitting by the road begging. When he hears Jesus is passing by, he shouts for help. The crowd tells him to be quiet and get out of the way. But Bartimaeus shouts even louder. Jesus stops. He doesn’t just keep walking; he says, “Call him.” The man throws off his cloak and runs to Jesus. Jesus asks him a beautiful question: “What do you want me to do for you?” After the man is healed, Jesus commends his faith and says, “Go your way.” But Bartimaeus chooses to follow Jesus “on the way.” Jesus sees the person that everyone else was trying to ignore.
Word: “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mk 10:51)

• Engage 1: Jesus notices people that everyone else ignores; he stops his journey to give his full attention to someone who needed help.
• Incidents: Jesus stops a huge crowd to find the woman who touched his cloak in secret (Lk 8:45-47); Jesus notices the tax collector Zacchaeus hidden in a tree and calls him down (Lk 19:5)
  (We can imitate this by stopping what we are doing to really listen to someone who feels ignored.)
• Engage 2: Jesus treats people with respect by asking what they need instead of just deciding what is best for them.
• Incidents: Jesus asks the man at the pool, “Do you want to be well?” (Jn 5:6); Jesus asks the two disciples on the road what they are talking about, letting them share their pain first (Lk 24:17)
  (We can imitate this by asking people how we can help them, rather than just telling them what to do.)

May 29 – Friday (8th Week in Ordinary Time)

Gospel Reading: Mk 11:11–26
Context: Jesus enters Jerusalem and goes into the Temple. He sees people buying and selling, turning the “house of prayer” into a noisy marketplace. He is moved by a “holy anger” because people are being cheated and the focus on God is lost. He drives them out, protecting the sacredness of the space. Later, he teaches the disciples about a fig tree that has no fruit. He tells them that if they have “faith in God,” they can move mountains. He emphasizes that when we pray, we must “forgive” anyone we have a grudge against so that our own relationship with God can be clear. Jesus is teaching us about keeping our hearts and our prayers “clean” and focused on love.
Word: “When you stand to pray, forgive anyone against whom you have a grievance.” (Mk 11:25)

• Engage 1: Jesus stands up for what is right and sacred, even when he has to have a difficult argument to protect it.
• Incidents: Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for using religious rules to hurt people instead of help them (Mt 23:23-24); Jesus defends the woman who anointed him against those who were complaining about the cost (Mk 14:6)
  (We can imitate this by standing up for people or values that are being mistreated, but always out of love.)
• Engage 2: Jesus teaches that our friendship with God is connected to how well we forgive our own friends and neighbors.
• Incidents: Jesus teaches the disciples to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors” (Mt 6:12); Jesus tells Peter that we must forgive others seventy-seven times (Mt 18:22)
  (We can imitate this by making sure we forgive people quickly so that we can pray with a clean heart.)

May 30 – Saturday (8th Week in Ordinary Time)

Gospel Reading: Mk 11:27–33
Context: Jesus is walking in the Temple again. The religious leaders come to him and demand to know “by what authority” he is doing these things. They are trying to trap him. Jesus, with great wisdom and wit, asks them a question back about John the Baptist. He says that if they answer him, he will answer them. The leaders realize that no matter how they answer, they will look bad. So they say, “We do not know.” Jesus calmly replies, “Neither shall I tell you.” He refuses to play their game of power and trickery. He shows that he is a friend who is wise, calm, and won’t be bullied by those who don’t have a sincere heart.
Word: “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.” (Mk 11:33)

• Engage 1: Jesus is wise and stays calm; he refuses to get into useless arguments with people who are being dishonest.
• Incidents: Jesus remains silent before the mocking questions of King Herod (Lk 23:9); Jesus gives a clever answer to those trying to trap him into not paying taxes (Mt 22:21)
  (We can imitate this by staying calm when someone tries to argue with us and knowing when it’s better to just be quiet.)
• Engage 2: Jesus values honesty and chooses to share his heart only with people who are truly looking for the truth.
• Incidents: Jesus explains the deep mysteries of his parables only to his disciples in private (Mk 4:34); Jesus has a long, sincere conversation with the Samaritan woman because she is open to the truth (Jn 4:7-26)
  (We can imitate this by spending our time and our deep conversations in relationships where there is real honesty.)

May 31 – The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

Gospel Reading: Jn 16:12–15
Context: In his final teachings, Jesus admits that the disciples aren’t ready to hear everything yet. He shows a very human sensitivity to their limitations. He promises that the “Spirit of Truth” will come to guide them slowly into the full truth. Jesus describes a beautiful, selfless relationship between himself, the Father, and the Spirit. Everything the Father has belongs to Jesus, and the Spirit takes what belongs to Jesus and gives it to us. It is a perfect circle of sharing. Jesus isn’t just teaching a doctrine about the Trinity; he is inviting us into the very life and friendship of God.
Word: “Everything that the Father has is mine… the Spirit will take from what is mine and declare it to you.” (Jn 16:15)

• Engage 1: Jesus is very patient; he doesn’t overwhelm his friends and waits for the right time to tell them deeper things.
• Incidents: Jesus uses simple parables to teach the crowds because they weren’t ready for direct spiritual mysteries (Mk 4:33); Jesus stays with the disciples for forty days after the Resurrection, teaching them as they were able to understand (Acts 1:3)
  (We can imitate this by being patient with ourselves and others as we grow and learn new things.)
• Engage 2: Jesus is extremely generous, sharing everything he gets from God with us through the Holy Spirit.
• Incidents: Jesus gives his own Mother to the beloved disciple while hanging on the cross (Jn 19:26-27); Jesus shares the “glory” he received from the Father with his disciples (Jn 17:22)
  (We can imitate this by being generous with our time and love, reflecting God’s sharing heart in our own lives.)