BISHOP HYING’S COLUMN

Page 5

1.     According to Bishop Hying, during this season of Thanksgiving, what does the Lord direct us to do?
2.     In what ways are we dependent on the Lord?
3.     According to the bishop, what does this dependence allow us to do? How does it give us, not only freedom, but assurance?
4.     Do you believe the life you were given is a gift, a privilege? Discuss.
5.     What does the bishop mean when he writes, “We grow so much from what is tested and tried in the crucible of suffering.”
6.     What are the things in your life you are grateful for this Thanksgiving?

ENGAGING

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1.     Why is hospitality an important part of our Christian tradition?
2.     In this article, it is said that, “Instead of judging the people for where they’re not, we meet them where they are and challenge them to develop a greater faith life and to live that out in very joyful ways.” Discuss.
3.     In what ways has St. Matthias made an effort to be a welcoming community?
4.     In what ways is your parish a welcoming community?
5.     In what ways do you try to be a welcoming person?

OPENING

Page 9

1.     What is a time capsule?
2.     What was found in the time capsule of the now-closed Sacred Heart parish in Michigan City?
3.     What did it tell people about the history of the parish?
4.     In what was this a powerful moment for the people who were parishioners at this parish?
5.     If you were to leave a time capsule so that future generations would know about you, what would you put in it?

UNWILLING

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1.     According to Pope Francis, what often triggers grumbling and complaining?
2.     In the time of Jesus, as the pope explained, what kept the Scribes and Pharisees away from those who sinned?
3.     What does the phrase, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice,” mean?
4.     Why do you believe Jesus often tended to be around sinners?
5.     Do you think that, as a society, we tend to avoid those we deem tarnished? Why?
6.     What would Jesus ask us to do instead?

SISTER PEG

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1.     Explain the ministry at Sojourner Truth House in Gary.
2.     What honor was Sister Peg Spindler recently awarded?
3.     How has she made a difference in the lives of the women she serves?
4.     What services do the homeless women receive from STH during the day?
5.     How has the addition of their kitchen garden helped the ministry?