Discussion Questions for the Sunday Readings of May 11, 2008
Pentecost Sunday (A)
By Anne Osdieck of the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University
SUNDAY READI NGS
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Questions on Sunday's readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Acts, Chapter 2, Verses 1-11
1. At the Tower of Babel (Genesis 2:1-9) the Lord “confused” the people’s speech so they could not understand each other. In this reading the opposite happened. Discuss.
2. Does the Holy Spirit still enhance communication at a deep level between people?
Second Reading
1 Corinthians, Chapter 12, Verses 3b-7, 12-13
1. The gifts of the Spirit are knowledge, wisdom, understanding, reverence, courage, right judgment and awe and wonder in the presence of God. How do these create unity in the Church? Discuss the idea that some people’s spiritual gifts are greater than others.
2. “To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” What are your gifts and for what reason were they given to you?
Gospel
John, Chapter 20, Verses 19-23
1. God breathed life into Adam in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:11). Here Jesus breathes on the disciples and gives them the Holy Spirit. How important is the Holy Spirit to you?
2. The disciples’ first task after receiving the Holy Spirit was to forgive sins. What does forgiveness of sin have to do with the Holy Spirit?
