November 16, 2025 Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Welcome Father Eckhard Today’s Readings: Mal 3:19-20a | 2 Thess 3:7-12 | Lk 21:5-19

Jesus said: “…they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” (Luke 21:16-19)

###Background on the Gospel Reading

In the context of Luke, today’s Gospel appears near the end of Jesus’ teaching in Jerusalem, just prior to the events that will lead to his crucifixion. His warnings and predictions are ominous but can be read in many ways.

To those who first heard Luke’s Gospel, those may have been words of encouragement. The destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem by the Romans was history (70 A.D.); Luke’s Gospel, Catholic scholars propose, was written between 80 and 90 A.D. His audience was probably Gentile Christians. Luke here tries to interpret the fall of Jerusalem for them and to locate it in God’s plans for humankind (salvation history). At the same time, Luke is suggesting to his audience that there will be a considerable elapse of time before Jesus’ final coming. Luke’s listeners have likely seen much upheaval and are anxious to know if these are the signs of Jesus’ coming. Luke is urging greater patience.

In the second part of today’s Gospel, Jesus warns that his followers will face persecution for their beliefs. Luke presents persecution as an opportunity for the followers of Jesus for “It will lead to your giving testimony” (Luke 21:13). In persecution God’s wisdom and power will be shown in the example of followers of Jesus. Perseverance in the face of persecution will lead to their salvation.

Here Jesus is assuring his followers that God is present to all believers, even in times of trouble. Ultimately, Jesus will witness to this with his own death. As disciples of Jesus, we try to follow his example, trusting in God’s mercy and protection, even when we are facing difficulties.

Source of reflection: “Sunday Connection” for the 33rd Sunday C, https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/sunday-connection/ Source of image: “Destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem” by Francesco Hayez, 1867. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Francesco_Hayez_017.jpg

News

16 November - Monthly opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation: Father Eckhard is available to listen to confessions before Mass (ca. 12:20 to 12:45) and after Mass, as usual.
16 November - The Parish Team meets at 14:30 in the parish hall meeting rooms. Everyone interested in our plans and decision-making is warmly welcome to join. On the agenda this time: Advent/ Christmas program and appointment process of new parish team.
30 November - For all kids and young people interested in joining the altar server ministry, we will have a training session before Mass (11:30-12:30). We will also consider the small changes in the Liturgy that are coming up in Advent so that we are well prepared. Kindly contact us if you have questions.