📖 Readings (English, from USCCB)
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First Reading: 2 Timothy 4:10-17b USCCB+1
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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145:10-11, 12-13, 17-18 USCCB
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Alleluia Verse: John 15:16 USCCB
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Gospel: Luke 10:1-9 USCCB+1
You can also see them online here: USCCB daily readings for October 18 USCCB
☀️ Simple Explanations & Applications for Catechumens
First Reading: 2 Timothy 4:10-17b
Summary / Explanation:
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Saint Paul writes to Timothy. He laments that some close companions (Demas, Crescens, Titus) have left him, but notes that Luke remained faithful. USCCB+1
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He asks Timothy to bring Mark, to collect some items, including “parchments” (letters or writings). Catholic Gallery+1
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Paul warns of a colleague (Alexander the coppersmith) who opposed him, but he trusts God’s justice. Catholic Gallery+1
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He recalls that at his first defense many deserted him, yet “the Lord stood by me and gave me strength” so that the message might still reach the Gentiles. USCCB+2Catholic Gallery+2
Application for Catechumens:
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In your journey of faith, you may experience times when friends, or even some companions, drift away. Paul’s example shows that faithfulness matters more than popularity.
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Trust that even when you feel alone, the Lord is present and supports you.
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Be a faithful companion to others—in your catechumenate group, your sponsors, and your church community.
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Remember that your studies, prayers, writings, and reflections (the “parchments”) matter—they form part of your growing in faith.
Psalm 145:10-11,12-13,17-18
Summary / Explanation:
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The psalm praises God: all God’s works give thanks; God’s faithful ones bless Him. USCCB
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It speaks of God’s might, kingdom, dominion enduring through all ages. USCCB
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“The Lord is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth.” USCCB
Application for Catechumens:
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Praise and worship should be part of daily life, not only Sunday.
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Recognize that God is powerful and His reign is lasting.
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Most importantly: God is near to you, especially when you call on Him sincerely. You are not too weak, too distant, or too unworthy for God to be close.
Gospel: Luke 10:1-9
Summary / Explanation:
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Jesus sends out 72 disciples in pairs to towns He plans to visit. USCCB+1
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He says: “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” USCCB+1
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He gives them instructions: carry no excess baggage (no money bag, no sack, no sandals), greet no one on the road. Catholic Daily Readings+1
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In whatever house they enter, first say, “Peace to this household”; if that household is peaceful, their peace remains; if not, it returns to them. Catholic Daily Readings+2Catholic Gallery+2
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Stay and eat/drink what is offered; do not move from house to house. Catholic Daily Readings
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In a welcomed town, heal the sick there and proclaim: “The Kingdom of God has come near you.” Catholic Daily Readings+1
Application for Catechumens:
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You are being sent too—through your baptism, you will be sent into the world to share Christ’s life.
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The mission is urgent (“harvest is abundant”)—many need to hear the message of God’s kingdom.
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You don’t need to carry heavy burdens of pride, over-preparation, or fear. Trust in God’s provision.
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Bring peace—where you go, let your heart and speech give peace.
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Accept hospitality—stay and share what you have; don’t be “tourists” in faith but dwellers.
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Be a healer (in small ways)—your compassion, prayers, care, kindness can heal.
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Proclaim that the Kingdom of God is already near: you carry Jesus in you, and your life becomes the announcement of God’s presence.
🧭 Reflection / Questions for Your Heart
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In times when others drift away, how do you remain faithful to Christ and to your community?
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Do you trust that God stands by you when you’re discouraged or lonely?
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How can you “bring peace” in your daily interactions—at home, at work, among friends?
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What burdens or “baggage” do you need to let go so that you can be more free in your walk of faith?
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How is God calling you to be a “laborer for the harvest” in your immediate context, even now as a catechumen?
🙏 Prayer of Reflection
O Lord Jesus,
You have sent me forth, just as You sent Your disciples, to bring Your peace and to proclaim Your Kingdom.
Help me to walk lightly, without fear, trusting wholly in Your presence.
When I feel alone or discouraged, grant me the courage and assurance that You stand by me.
May my life—my words, my actions, my love—be a small healing in this world.
Send me into the harvest You desire, that souls may know You.
Through the intercession of St. Luke, whose feast we celebrate today, grant me the perseverance to follow You faithfully.
Amen.
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