Mere Christianity - Catching Up! ~ Book 2: What Christians Believe, Chapter 5 - The Practical Conclusion

Hi All!

Now that I'm all caught up with stuff I've already read, I'll hopefully be able to start posting Book 3 questions next Monday. I'm still behind when it comes to the reading schedule, but I'm betting others are also so we'll just go with it.

Here's an updated reading schedule:

Week of 8-10:   Book 3 - Chapters 1 and 2
Week of 8-17:   Book 3 - Chapters 3 and 4
Week of 8-24:     Book 3 - Chapters 5 and 6
Week of 8-31:   Book 3 - Chapters 7 and 8
Week of 9-7:   Book 3 - Chapters 9 and 10
Week of 9-14:   Book 3 - Chapters 11 and 12
Week of 9-21:   Book 4 - Chapters 1 and 2
Week of 9-28:     Book 4 - Chapters 3 and 4
Week of 10-5:   Book 4 - Chapters 5 and 6
Week of 10-12:   Book 4 - Chapters 7 and 8
Week of 10-19:   Book 4 - Chapters 9, 10 and 11

Chapter 5 - The Practical Conclusion

This chapter discusses how the "Christ-life" is within the Christian and how they can spread it to others. It also addresses how we often believe things on authority even when we can not exactly say why it should be so.

1.) Name some things you believe just on God's authority.

2.) What do Christians mean when they say they are "in Christ" and why is that important?

3.) After reading this chapter, what would you say to those who object to being Christian because there are people in the world who have never heard of Jesus Christ?

Mere Christianity - Catching Up! ~ Book 2: What Christians Believe, Chapter 4 - The Perfect Penitent

Chapter 4 - The Perfect Penitent

In this chapter, Lewis talks about various theories that people believe about why Christ died for us.

1.) In your own words, explain the meaning behind Christ's death. What distinction does Lewis make between the central Christian belief and the various theories of how atonement works?

2.) What is the basic problem with repentance? According to Lewis, how does God help us repent?

3.) How does Lewis  respond to the argument that suffering and dying was easy for Jesus because he was God? Do you think it was easy for Jesus? Consider Isaiah 53; Matthew 27_26-54; Luke 22:40-44 and Hebrews 2:10, 14-18, 4:15.

Mere Christianity - Catching Up! ~ Book 2: What Christians Believe, Chapter 3 - The Shocking Alternative

Chapter 3 - The Shocking Alternative

This chapter discusses God's decision to give humans free will even though He knew that it would allow us to choose to do evil things. God provided for that though, by ensuring that if we repent our sins would be forgiven. He wanted to make true joy possible when we choose good and follow Him, if we had another choice that is often the easier choice to make.

1.) How can a good God make creatures that are capable of doing wrong?

2.) How is Christ the "shocking" solution?

3.) After reading this paragraph containing Lewis’s famous “Lunatic, Liar or Lord” trilemma,  how would you answer the person who says that Christ was merely a good teacher?

Mere Christianity - Catching Up! ~ Book 2: What Christians Believe, Chapter 2 - The Invasion

Chapter 2 ~ The Invasion

 This chapter says religion is not simple, especially when there is both good and evil in the world. It talks about a couple of ways of reconciling these good and bad "powers", mostly focusing on Dualism.

1.) In your own words, explain the meaning of Dualism. What is the "catch" to it, according to Lewis?

2.) What is Christianity's solution to the problem of evil and a good God?C

3.) In what ways have you experienced the world as a place of spiritual warfare?

Mere Christianity - Catching Up! ~ Book 2: What Christians Believe, Chapter 1 - The Rival Conceptions of God

Long Time, No Blog Book Clubbers!

I'm obviously a bit behind in updating the blog with book club discussion questions as I've been a bit preoccupied the last 3.5 weeks having and taking care of our new little one, Lucas Mark Decker!  I'm slowly but surely coming out of the woodwork, but it really is a day by day adventure.

I've finished reading Chapter 2, so I'll post questions related to that this week and next week. That will give me time to catch up on reading Chapter 3.

Book 2: What Christians Believe

Chapter 1 ~ The Rival Conceptions of God

This chapter talked about the divisions of people who believe and don't believe in God. Lewis also discusses how he used to argue against God as an atheist and how that argument fell apart.

1.) The first major question everyone must confront whether they believe in God or not. How do you respond to the thinking that Christians have a more "liberal view" than atheists about the existence of God?

2.) What problem must be confronted if you reject the God of right and wrong because there is cruelty and injustice in the world?

3.) Where did your conception of God come from? How has it changed over the years?

Mere Christianity - Study & Discussion Questions - Book 1: Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe, Chapter 5 - We Have Cause to be Uneasy

Howdy Book Clubbers,

In Chapter 5, we are getting closer to calling the "Somebody" behind the Moral Law, God. He gives us three reasons why Christianity makes sense in the light of Moral Law (aka The Law of Human Nature).

For those of you who want a quick summary or a little more information on what we read in Book 1, check out these notes: http://www.opendiscipleship.org/mere-christianity-leaders-notes/

STUDY QUESTIONS

1.) Reason #1 is that humanity is on the wrong road. Do you agree/disagree? What evidence to do yo offer as support?

2.) What are the two bits of evidence we have about the "Somebody"? What conclusions can we draw from each piece of evidence? What does it mean that this "Somebody" behind the moral law is good, but also terrifying?

3.) Christianity makes no sense apart from a sense of the Moral Law and one’s personal inability to keep it. How much sense does Christianity make to you?

Mere Christianity - Study & Discussion Questions - Book 1: Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe, Chapter 4 - What Lies Behind the Law

Hi All!

This chapter talks about the two main views of the universe, the Materialistic View and the Religious View (although a third view, the Life-Force Philosophy, is also described). Lewis relates that science can not determine which of these views is right. He also begins to conjecture that there might be something behind the Law of Nature, a "Power" (not necessarily God...he hasn't gotten to proving that...yet...

STUDY QUESTIONS

1.) Why can't science help us decide which view, materialist or religious, is true? Do you agree?

2.) If we can't find out about the Law of Nature from science, how can we investigate whether it exists or not?

3.) When you look inside yourself, what hunger and desires do you have, that point to something beyond?

4.) According to Lewis, what makes the Life-Force view attractive?

Mere Christianity - Study & Discussion Questions - Book 1: Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe, Chapter 3 - The Reality of the Law

Hi!

In the Reality of the Law, Lewis talks about how humans ought to follow the Law of Nature, but that he won't necessarily choose to follow it. When we don't follow it, we often come up with excuses as to why we aren't.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1.) Considering the difference between the Laws of Nature and Law of Human Nature, what clues does this provide for understanding the world?

2.) What clues do we have, in a culture that is committed to a materialistic/naturalistic understanding of the world, that there is actually something "beyond"?

3.) Do you find the law pressing in on you? How?

Mere Christianity - Study & Discussion Questions - Book 1: Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe, Chapter 2 - Some Objections

Happy 4th of July!

In Chapter 2, C.S. Lewis addresses some objections and questions from people like us!  He addresses whether Moral Law is just a herd instinct or a social convention.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1.) How does Lewis distinguish Moral Law from a herd instinct?

2.) Do Moral Laws change over time? What about their application?

3.) How would you answer someone who has reservations about a universal morality?

Mere Christianity - Study & Discussion Questions - Book 1: Right and Wrong as a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe, Chapter 1 - The Law of Human Nature

Hola!

Chapter 1 was about The Law of Human Nature, that law in which we inherently know what is universally right and wrong and that as humans we are not always keeping it.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1.) Why does Lewis think it noteworthy to pay attention to the underlying dynamics of quarreling?

2.) Why is there good reason to believe that the idea of a universal law of nature is a solid truth?

3.) Lewis’s summary point is that while everyone believes in Right and Wrong, none of us is consistent in living that way. How do you respond when someone points out your inconsistent behavior?

Mere Christianity - Study & Discussion Questions - Preface

Hi Book Clubbers,

I'm trying to use all the brain power I can muster to come up with really thought provoking study and discussion questions for Mere Christianity since it is a book with so much meat in it, but I'm not sure I'm succeeding.

***So... If you have something that you would like to discuss or ask the group about with regards to a certain section of the book, let me know either in the comments or on the Facebook group!***

The Preface sets the stage for what C.S. Lewis is going to present in the rest of book. I especially liked the discussion on how words seem to lose their original meaning over time, so Lewis is very specific as to define words that may fall into this category (such as Christian). I also liked the analogy of the hall opening to several doors to describe how one might pick a specific denomination of Christianity. It was thought provoking and not too "over the top" of an analogy that was easy to understand.

What were your thoughts/favorite parts of the Preface?

STUDY QUESTIONS

1.) What does Lewis mean by 'mere' Christianity?

2.) What were your thoughts on Lewis's discussion of definitions (i.e. "gentleman", "Christian")? Are there any other words in modern society that also fall into this category?

3.) Consider the analogy of the hall and the rooms...  What criteria does Lewis give for picking the right room? What can we do to help those in the hallway as the discern which room to pick?

Mere Christianity Reading Schedule

Hi All,

Here is the reading schedule for Mere Christianity, by CS Lewis. The reading schedule is fairly slow, taking us through September since it is a relatively long and dense book. The reading questions will be both ones that help us better understand and then reflect on what we've read.

I'm not going to include page numbers since some people may be reading different editions or reading online. Here's a link to a free online copy I found: https://www.dacc.edu/assets/pdfs/PCM/merechristianitylewis.pdf

MERE CHRISTIANITY - READING SCHEDULE

Week of 6-22:   Preface, Book 1 - Chapters 1 and 2
Week of 6-29:   Book 1 - Chapters 3, 4 and 5
Week of 7-6:     Book 2 - Chapters 1, 2, and 3
Week of 7-13:   Book 2 - Chapter 4 and 5
Week of 7-20:   Book 3 - Chapters 1 and 2
Week of 7-27:   Book 3 - Chapters 3 and 4
Week of 8-3:     Book 3 - Chapters 5 and 6
Week of 8-10:   Book 3 - Chapters 7 and 8
Week of 8-17:   Book 3 - Chapters 9 and 10
Week of 8-24:   Book 3 - Chapters 11 and 12
Week of 8-31:   Book 4 - Chapters 1 and 2
Week of 9-7:     Book 4 - Chapters 3 and 4
Week of 9-14:   Book 4 - Chapters 5 and 6
Week of 9-21:   Book 4 - Chapters 7 and 8
Week of 9-28:   Book 4 - Chapters 9, 10 and 11

*GUEST POST* Catholic Charities of the East Bay to Provide Free Citizenship Services

Catholic Charities of the East Bay to Provide Free Citizenship Services

By Steve Mullin

Catholic Charities of the East Bay, the largest provider of immigration legal services in the East Bay, will provide free citizenship services at Hayward City Hall on June 13. In partnership with the East Bay Naturalization Collaborative and the City of Hayward, Catholic Charities is organizing a citizenship application workshop to provide citizenship services to those who might otherwise be unable to afford an attorney.

         “We want to help as many members of our community become citizens as we possibly can on June 13,” said Christopher Martinez, director of legal services at Catholic Charities and the logistics coordinator for the workshop. “Many in the immigrant community who are eligible for immigration relief simply cannot afford access to accredited counsel, and workshops like these help address that issue.”

         Those attending the event can receive free assistance with:

·         Step-by-step review of the naturalization process.

·         Assessment of their ability to naturalize.

·         Application preparation & document packaging, if eligible to naturalize.

·         Application review by an immigration attorney or qualified legal representative.

         “We want to thank Mayor Barbara Halliday and members of the city council for their leadership, and David Korth, Neighborhood Services Manager, who helped organize the event.” Said Mr. Martinez. “By providing free citizenship services at a venue like Hayward City Hall, we are responding to our church and government leaders in ‘welcoming the stranger’.”

         There is a huge need in south Alameda County for these types of services. “People come to us from San Leandro, Union City, Newark, Fremont and beyond- and it’s growing,” explained Mr. Martinez. “Events like this allow us to provide services where the need is greatest.”

         Pulling off an event like this is no small feat. Volunteers are a crucial part of a successful event. Anyone interested in volunteering can learn more at the East Bay Naturalization Collaborative website.

            
The Catholic Church is the largest provider of social services throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Catholic Charities, founded in 1935, is the visible face of the Diocese of Oakland in that work, and is a Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) recognized organization with licensed attorneys and BIA-accredited representatives on staff. For more information on the event, or to register, visit www.cceb.org.

Next Book Club Selection: Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

Hi Book Clubbers,

After we had a couple of suggestions two Tuesdays ago to read Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, and it is a relatively easy book to get online for free, at the library or for relatively cheap, I decided to pick this as our next AS YAM Book Club book.

I plan on posting the reading schedule probably a week from Monday on June 22 so that gives people who are interested in participating time to get the book.

Since this book is a bit more philosophical in nature, I'm probably going to have the reading schedule go a bit slower. Also, I will post some discussion questions as usual and links to video resources I've found to help better understand what we are reading. I do encourage those who are participating though to post your own questions in the comments or on our Facebook page so we can help each other really understand the meat of what C.S. Lewis is saying.

We will probably be in the middle of this book when I have the baby, so there may be a few weeks where I get off schedule. If anyone is interested in posting about the book during this time, let me know and we can get you access to the blog.

As always, let me know if you have any comments or suggestions.

Week Six: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 6 ~ A New Level of Thinking and the Epilogue - Discussion Questions - Set 3

Discussion Questions

1.) How would your parish change if everyone in your parish read this book?

2.) Are you ready to let Jesus take you to the next level in your spiritual life?

Week Six: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 6 ~ A New Level of Thinking and the Epilogue - Discussion Questions - Set 2

Discussion Questions

1.) Which of the key concepts in the book was most intriguing to you? Why?

2.) How has this book changed your view of Catholicism and the way you approach your spiritual life?

3.) Who else in your life would you like to read this book?

Week Six: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 6 ~ A New Level of Thinking and the Epilogue - Discussion Questions - Set 1

Last "Official" week of posting discussion questions about The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic! Don't fret if you are still catching up, the posts will still be here when you are ready. The type A personality in me just wants to make sure I stay on schedule in the off chance someone is actually caught up.

The last section of the book talks about how we can move forward to encourage Catholics to become more engaged. What is that "Game Changer" going to be? How can we begin turning the tide locally just within our own parish?

Discussion Questions

1.) At what time in your life did you feel the best about being Catholic? Why?

2.) How would you like your parish to become more dynamic in the coming year? Are you willing to get involved and help make that happen?

_________________________________________________________________________________

CALL FOR BOOK SUGGESTIONS!!

I'm trying to get together a list of books that would be good for either young adults who are fallen away from their faith, wanting to learn more about their faith, or ways to continue to grow in our faith that we can continually pick from for our next Book Club selection. They can be of any genre, fiction, non-fiction, biography, etc. So please, please, please, let me know if you have any suggestions of awesome books you have read, that have been suggested to you or that you really want to read. With my new baby coming soon, I still really want to keep up with posting and think that having a good list to choose from would be awesome!

Week Five: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 5 ~ Evangelization - Discussion Questions - Set 3

1.) Are you open to being SENT by God on a mission? Are you nervous about what God might ask of you if you make yourself completely available to him? Why?

2.) What is the simplest way you can share your faith with others in the coming week? 

Week Five: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 5 ~ Evangelization - Discussion Questions - Set 2

1.) At what times in your life do you feel like God has won you over to his ways the most? Are you open to letting God WIN you in new ways at this time in your life?

2.) We all evangelize about different things. What types of things have you evangelized about in your life? Your phone...a vacation spot...a car...a handbag...shoes...a college?

P.S. - This week we are reading Chapter 6: A New Level of Thinking and The Epilogue - pages 189-216.  Also, if you have any suggestions for our next book club book, please please let me know. I want to try to get a couple of books in the pipeline so that I can prep for it before the baby comes!

Week Five: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 5 ~ Evangelization - Discussion Questions - Set 1

Hi Fellow Dynamic Catholics in Training!

I must be honest and say that I haven't yet finished this chapter yet. From what I have read so far though, I'm really liking Kelly's very basic approach to evangelization. It's all about helping yourself and others become the best version of yourself and living a life of virtue. We have to determine ways that we can win others over with regards to faith, incrementally build their faith so that it is easy for people to do and then be sent out to continue the cycle.

Discussion Questions - Set 1

1.) If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

2.) Did you watch the news with the Ten Commandments in front of you? What conclusions did you come to through this exercise?

Week Four: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 4 ~ Generosity - Discussion Questions - Set 3

Discussion Questions - Set 3

1.) Did this chapter inspire you to set a financial giving goal for this year?

2.) Do you think you will be happier if you are a more generous person? If so, what holds you back from being more generous?

Week Four - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 4 ~ Generosity - Discussion Questions - Set 2

Discussion Questions - Set 2

1.) How did this chapter inspire you to be more generous?

2.) What relationships really test your generosity?

PS - This week we are reading Chapter Five: Changing the World pages 143-187. Also, if anyone has any suggestions for our next book club selection, let me know!

Week Four - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 4 ~ Generosity - Discussion Questions - Set 1

Hi Book Clubbers,

Chapter 4 was all about generosity....generosity of time, talent and treasure. I think for young adults this is probably one of the more challenging signs of being a dynamic Catholic. Current culture tells us that we need to work hard at our careers, to earn and save money so we can be "successful". This chapter gave some really easy ways where we can incrementally increase our generosity in a way that doesn't seem to be as challenging.

Discussion Questions - Set 1

1.) What are you grateful for at this time in your life?

2.) Who is the most generous person you know? What are some examples of their generosity?

Week Three - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 3 ~ Study - Discussion Questions - Set 3

Discussion Questions Set 3

1. How do you see Relativism influencing you in your daily life? How do you see it impacting your family and friends?


2. At the end of this chapter the author encourages us to read five pages of a Catholic book every day for the rest of our lives. How would your faith life be different five years from now if you took on this habit?

Week Three - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 3 ~ Study - Discussion Questions - Set 2

Discussion Question Set 2

1. What question about Catholicism would you like to find answers to? What steps are you going to take to get the answers to that question?


2. Describe a time in your life when you were not interested in knowing the truth about a particular issue or situation.


P.S. - This week we are reading Chapter Four - The Happiest People I Know, pages 109-140.

Week Three - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 3 ~ Study - Discussion Questions - Set 1

Hola Book Clubbers!

We are half way through learning about the Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic. I especially liked this chapter on "Study" because it was one that I could really connect with and that I'm actively working on every day. (I really do love reading and studying things! :-)) Again,  Matthew Kelly focused on just doing a little bit of study on the faith at a time and in the end that will make a huge difference in each individuals life and even our parish as a whole. Joining this book club could be one way that you could really embark on cultivating the "Study" sign in your own life, and we'd LOVE to have you join along at any time!

Here are our first set of Discussion Questions:

1.) At what time in your life have you been hungriest for answers to questions about your Catholic faith? What caused that hunger?

2.) What’s the best Catholic book you ever read? How did it help you to grow in your faith? (I hope lots of people respond to at least this question because it will be treasure trove of future book club selections!)

Week Two - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 2 ~ Prayer - Discussion Questions - Set 3

Discussion Questions - Set 3

1.) Have you tried The Prayer Process since you read about it? If so, how did it help you pray?

2.)Does your family have a "prayerful giant"? Who is it?

Week Two - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 2 ~ Prayer - Discussion Questions - Set 2

Discussion Questions - Set 2

1.) How does prayer make life better for you?

2.) How consistent is your prayer life? What prevents you from praying on days when you don't?

P.S. - Reminder: This week we are reading Chapter 3: The Genius of Catholicism, pages 75-106.

Week Two - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Chapter 2 ~ Prayer - Discussion Questions - Set 1

Hi Book Clubbers!

Chapter 2 was all about how Dynamic Catholics have a routine of prayer and then have a routine within a routine. They always pray at the same time, in the same place, in the same way. They know how they are going to pray, by trying different things and determining what works best for them. We need to find this time for silence and prayer because it is in this silence that God talks to us. We shouldn't try to get all crazy and elaborate with our prayer routine, but to keep it simple and focused. Just setting a small amount of time each day (that can increase in length over time) will present many benefits to our lives.

I really enjoyed a lot of the practical tips on how we can easily improve our prayer lives (and the summaries at the end of every chapter!)

Discussion Questions - Set 1

1.) Can you tell when you are and are not spiritually healthy? What are the indicators?

2.) Do you have a daily routine of prayer? If so, what is it? If not, what would you like it to be after reading this chapter?

Week One - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Discussion Questions - Set 3

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1.) How can you apply the concept of continuous improvement in your life to grow in the Four Signs?

2.) How can you be more intentional in your spiritual life THIS WEEK? How can you hold yourself accountable?



PS - This week we are reading Chapter 2: Are you Spiritually Healthy? - pages 41 - 71. :-)

Week One - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Discussion Questions - Set 2

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1.) Rate yourself in the 4 Signs of Being a Dynamic Catholic (1-low, 10-high): Prayer, Study, Generosity, Evangelization.

2.) Which of the four signs is strongest in your life today and why?

3.) Which of the four signs is weakest in your life today and why?




PS - This week we are reading Chapter 2: Are you Spiritually Healthy? - pages 41 - 71. :-)

Week One - The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Discussion Questions, Set 1

Hi All,

Welcome to our first week of discussion on our current book The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic by Matthew Kelly. The questions this week are related to the Prologue and Chapter One: Incredible Possibilities.

I'm using most of the questions from the study guide that accompanies the book that I found HERE. I figured instead of transposing the Opening and Closing prayers that we would use if we were meeting in person, that I would let you click over and read it if you were interested. That way I can keep these posts short and sweet.

Like our last book discussion, I'll post a few discussion questions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and you can go ahead and just comment with your responses. If those of you reading along would like me to post questions on less days/more days, let me know. I didn't want to bombard everybody with 6-8 questions at once! Feedback is always welcome and appreciated!

Looking forward to becoming more dynamic Catholics with you all! :-)

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1.) Do you know a Dynamic Catholic? What characteristics do you see in them?

2.) How do you sense God is calling you to grow at this time in your life?

Mercy in the City on the Jennifer Fulwiler Show Podcast

Hi All!

Quick Friday post from me to all of you who have read Mercy in the City, are reading it, plan to read it, or are even just interested in being merciful!

I came across this short podcast where Jennifer Fulwiler interviewed Kerry Weber, the author of Mercy in the City. I found it interesting, so I thought I would pass it along!

Happy listening!

http://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/show/jenniferfulwiler/id/3505058

~ Jen

The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - Reading Schedule

Hi Book Clubbers!

Are you all ready to become a Dynamic Catholic??


Below is the reading schedule for this selection. Following the Dynamic Catholic Study guide, I'll be posting an opening prayer, some reflection questions and a closing prayer associated with each week, throughout the following week (i.e. questions for this week's reading will be posted on the blog next week.)

 April 20 - April 26

THE PROLOGUE &

CHAPTER 1: INCREDIBLE POSSIBILITIES

Read pages 5–37

April 27 - May 3

CHAPTER 2: ARE YOU SPIRITUALLY HEALTHY?

Read pages 41–71

May 4 - May 10

CHAPTER 3: THE GENIUS OF CATHOLICISM

Read pages 75–106

May 11 - May 17

CHAPTER 4: THE HAPPIEST PEOPLE I KNOW

Read pages 109–140

May 18 - May 24

CHAPTER 5: CHANGING THE WORLD

Read pages 143–187

May 25 - May 31

CHAPTER 6: A NEW LEVEL OF THINKING

& THE EPILOGUE

Read pages 189–216

As always, let me know know if you have any questions, comments or suggestions. 

Also, if you have any ideas for future book club selections let me know. I'd like to try to pick the next book soon, so that I might be able to get a bit of a head start before the baby comes!

The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic by Matthew Kelly - NEXT BOOK CLUB SELECTION!

Hi All,

Hope those of you who read Mercy in the City enjoyed it! Also, if you haven't had a chance to read it yet, feel free to catch up whenever you want to. The blog posts will be there and available for the discussion to continue when you are ready! If you are interested in putting what you learned into action, I know that there are some service opportunities coming up in the near future where you can do this. Stayed tuned to the ASYAM Newsletter for more information!

Our next book club selection is The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic by Matthew Kelly. I chose this book because it seems to be one lots of people have OR a book that some of us have multiple copies that we can share with others. Also, I think that it would be great to learn more about the signs of being a Dynamic Catholic especially as we are working as a group to create and grow more leaders within our very own All Saints Hayward Young Adults Ministry!

I'm going to use the study guide created by Matthew Kelly as a guide for our discussion here on the blog (and may throw in a few other questions that better apply to us if I think of some). The reading schedule will begin next Monday, which will give those who want to participate a chance to get the book. If you don't have the book and would like a copy, let me know and I'll try to connect you with someone who has one (I personally have 1 extra copy.). Those of you who do have extra copies, if you could bring them to either The Call or The Haven this week to share with those who are interested that would be awesome.

As always, if you have any questions, let me know!

Looking forward to reading with you!

~ Jen

Week 3 - Mercy in the City - Discussion Questions Chapters 25 and Epilogue

Last set of Mercy in the City discussion questions!

Ch 25 - It is easy to become complacent with our faith especially if we have been a Catholic our whole lives. How can you respond to the call of your faith everyday and show pride in being Catholic?

Epilogue - How can you sign your own personal covenant to begin a journey of mercy?

Now its time to pick our next book...

I picked up The Church of Mercy by Pope Francis at the library since I saw it and thought it complemented the fact that I am reading the Joy of the Gospel and taking an online course applying it to youth ministry. I haven't looked at it yet, but it is an option. I also requested the Seven Levels of Intimacy by Matthew Kelly, but probably won't get that one for a week or so...

I'm totally open to other ideas though, so if someone's got one, shout it out (or post it in the comments below...)

Week 3 - Mercy in the City - Discussion Questions Chapters 22 - 24

Hi!

More questions to get you thinking...

Ch 22 - How are your doing what you are called by God to do? (i.e. How are you loving and serving in your everyday life?)

Ch 23 - How is your faith (or current "cross") helping you to be a new person?

Ch 24 - Have you ever just wandered through a cemetery? What was the experience like? How can we help "bury the dead"?

Week 3 - Mercy in the City - Discussion Questions Chapters 19 - 21

Hi!

I just finished reading Mercy in the City yesterday and it was a great book. Most challenging part of reading it though is figuring out how to put what I read about into action in a way that fits in to my life. Need to find time to answer all of the discussion questions that I wrote up though, which should help!

Hope everyone else who is reading along is enjoying the book!

Without further ado...some discussion questions:

Ch 19 - What are some practical ways of "visiting the imprisoned"?

Ch 20 - We may not be in a physical prison, but is there something that is keeping you in a figurative "prison"? Is there something you need to forgive yourself for that will help you break out of that "prison"?

Ch 21 - How can you act less like a robot and instead go out and share your faith with others?

Week 2 - Mercy in the City Discussion of Chapters 16 through 18

Hello!

He is almost Risen! Let's all keep the RCIA candidates in our prayers since they will be fully received into the Church this evening during the Easter Vigil this evening!

Here's are last set of Week 2 questions:

Ch 16 - What do you think of when you hear the word "water"? Where do I need this water and for what?

Ch 17 - "This is part of the beauty of faith, that God's waters are offered, they're ready for us, ready to fill our thirst, but never forced on us." pg 92; What does this statement mean to you or how has it applied to your life?

Ch 18 - "Sometimes hope comes in the form of a million faces you have yet to meet." pg 100 What are some ways that you can imagine hope coming to you in the form of a face you have yet to meet?

Happy day before Easter!

Week 2 - Mercy in the City Discussion Questions for Chapters 13 through 15

Hola!

Our next set of Week 2 questions based on Chapters 13 - 15.

Ch 13 - When has being hospitable made more of an impact on you than you imagined it would or made you recognize the walls of your heart expanding in love?

Ch 14 - Have you ever had a thought provoking conversation with someone who is homeless or down on their luck and been changed?

Ch 15 - What is your favorite Station of the Cross and why?

Hope you are all having a blessed Holy Week so far!

"I Thirst"

Allo!

So, first of all, thanks to everyone who came! We've been averaging about 12 people per night these days- this is exciting!

Tonight Monica led the night by sharing her personal reflection on Jesus's last words, "I thirst." Hers is one of 7 reflections that will be shared by parishioners this Friday at 1:30pm in the Church.

Two quotes/ references from the night:
+ "Our hearts are restless until they rest in you."
+ Mother Teresa's "I Thirst."

After Monica shared her story and we asked/ discussed her story and the quotes/ words above, Monica prompted us to reflect on a few questions:
1. Describe a deep thirst in your life. What did or do you long for? Why do you thirst for this?
2. Has God and Jesus quenched your thirst, your longing? How so? If not, do you desire to? Why do you desire to?
3. Describe a/ the moment you decided to actively pursue your faith, or string of moments that led you to following Christ. What brought you closer to God/ Jesus/ the faith? How did it bring you closer?

What followed was a very deep and personal conversation that didn't end until about 11pm! (This is why we used to meet on Fridays!). Thank you to everyone who shared and allowed themselves to be vulnerable tonight. I'm glad you felt comfortable enough in the group to do so (in my mind, that's one of the main reasons why we exist!).

May you have a blessed Holy Week.

Week 2 - Mercy in the City Discussion Questions for Chapters 10 through 12

Hi All,

Hope those of you who are reading with us are enjoying the book so far. I know for me it is really getting me thinking...especially about how I act/react to those less fortunate than me that I encounter when I'm out in about.

This popped up in my blog reader which I thought was interested and especially timely.

http://www.catholicsistas.com/2015/03/30/feed-hungry/

Seems like they'll be doing a series on the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, so I'll share if the article is interesting.

Without further ado...our first set of Week 2 discussion questions. Had a bit more trouble coming up with them this week so if anyone has any other thoughts to discuss be sure to let me know!

Ch 10 - What do you need to let go of (be it clothes, some other material goods or something not tangible)?

Ch 11 - What are you failing to do?

Ch 12 - Has there been a time when you were able to either look someone in the eye you didn't know or who you didn't necessarily "love" and see God? Describe the experience and what it meant to you.

See you all tomorrow!

Week 1 - Mercy In the City - Discussion of Chapter 7 through 9

Howdy!

Went to a Garth Brooks concert last night, so I'm feeling a little bit country this morning.

Here are our final discussion questions from Week 1. Can't wait to start discussing the Week 2 reading with you next week!

Ch 7:

We are all at different stages of our spiritual journey. How are you, right now, being called to "continuing conversion"?

Ch 8:

What does it mean to you to be merciful? How can you apply this practically to your daily life?

Ch 9: 

How have you been willing to give up what you have to the point of discomfort? How do you uniquely clothe yourself with love (i.e. live out love on a daily basis)?

Have a blessed Holy Week!

Week 1 - Mercy In the City - Discussion of Chapter 4 through 6

Hi ASYA Book Clubbers!

Hope you are still enjoying Mercy in the City! We are currently reading Chapter 10 through 18 and discussing Chapters 4 - 6 today.

Here's our next set of discussion questions.

Ch 4:

This Lent so far, how have you used the absence of a particular comfort in order to feel the presence of God? How are you working to better understand how to live out God's will for you?

Ch 5:

Where has your Lenten journey taken you so far this year? Is it what you expected? Are you tired and waiting expectantly for Easter or are you energized with the progress you've made thus far?

Ch 6: 

Reread the quote from Simone Weil on page 31. How have you opened the door to God to let Him plant a seed of faith in you? How did you accept it to let it grow?

Final discussion questions for first week of reading to come Saturday.

Forgiveness & A Change

Allo all! Sorry there was no post last week! It totally slipped my mind! 

Tonight we watched the following video from a priest out in Michigan, Fr. John Riccardo! The title of this video is "How Forgiveness Sets Us Free."

Because the video was a little over 40min long, we weren't able to discuss it for very long. We touched on Fr. Riccardo's questions at the end of his talk though-- what is forgiveness not?

It's not:  a feeling, getting revenge, holding a grudge. 

It is: a choice, healing, something we can do when we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. 

Want more Fr. Riccardo? Check out the rest of his talks in his Alpha 201 series here! (Sorry for the super light link!)

Random, but not so random administrative note-- this blog will soon move over to allsaintshaywardyam.blogspot.com! We're changing our name from "All Saints Young Adults (ASYA)" to "All Saints Young Adult Ministry (ASYAM)". Exciting stuff, but also a lot of work, so pls bear with us as all the changes are happening and as we transfer everything over to the new site! 

Thanks, and have a great week! 

Edit: Here's some notes Amanda took from tonight's discussion!

What is forgiveness not:

Condoning

Putting up a front/acting

Feeling good

Forgetting 

Keeping count 

What does forgiveness mean:

Letting it go

Putting on Christ's mind

Openness to the spirit when you think of that person

Accepting the situation 

Leslie's summary of forgiveness class from Stanford: 

1. Be mindful of your emotions

2. Put a positive twist on the hurtful memory

3. Stop complaining about it - complaining makes it seem bigger than it is

Week 1 - Mercy In the City - Discussion of Intro through Chapter 3

Hi All!

Hope all of you that are joining us in reading Mercy in the City by Kerry Weber (and if you haven't started yet, no worries, it is a really easy read so start anytime!)

Since as I've been reading, I've found a little nugget of information in each chapter that I think would be great to discuss, I decided to split up the discussion questions into 3 separate posts to be posted on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This way it won't feel overwhelming in one post. Feel free to add a comment with your answers to all or some of the discussion questions or ask your own questions that you came up with while reading that others can answer...whatever the Spirit calls you to.

So far I've really enjoyed how real Kerry has been with some of struggles with completing the Corporal Acts of Mercy thus far, but how when she perseveres, the rewards are great. I'm looking forward to reading more to see where her story takes her!

Without further ado...the discussion questions!

Intro: 

Kerry had an experience where the nun said she like the shoes she had been self-conscious about. That experience gave her an overwhelming feeling that everything would be ok and she later recognized it as the Spirit. Have you ever had an experience like this? If so, what was it and how did you know it was the Spirit?

Ch 1:

Have you ever felt that if you can't adhere to your Lenten sacrifices perfectly, that maybe you shouldn't try at all? If so, what was your response?

Ch 2:

Reread the St. Basil the Great quote on page 9. It is a challenging statement. What have you done in your life to give drink to the thirsty? How do we know when and how to act?

Ch 3:

What has been your experience with public expressions of religion, like going out and about with ashes on Ash Wednesday? Have they been positive or negative?

More questions Thursday!

Have a blessed week!

ASYA Book Club ~ Mercy in the City Reading Schedule & Future Book Suggestions

Hi All!

Jen here, your official ASYA Book Club moderator/leader!

I'm really looking forward to starting this reading journey with you all.  I'm finding that reading Catholic/Christian related books & discussing them, in addition to attending our ASYA meetings on Tuesdays, are really helping me to learn more about our faith and grow closer to Jesus. I'm hoping that some of you feel the same way! It also doesn't hurt to have a group setting to hold me accountable for actually staying on top of reading a book either!

The plan is to pick a book to read and then discuss here on the blog. I'll be posting a link to each blog post on Facebook for those of you who haven't yet really dived into the blog world (Warning: It's addictive!).

Our next ASYA book club read was inspired by Fr. Michael's talk last week at Soup Supper. It is Mercy in the City - How to Feed the Hungry, Give Drink to the Thirsty, Visit the Imprisoned, and Keep Your Day Job,  by Kerry Weber.

Below is the description from Amazon (<-- link to Amazon, can't figure out how to change the color to be able to see it better!):
When Jesus asked us to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, and visit the imprisoned, he didn’t mean it literally, right? Kerry Weber, a modern, young, single woman in New York City sets out to see if she can practice the Corporal Works of Mercy in an authentic, personal, meaningful manner while maintaining a full, robust, regular life. Weber, a lay Catholic, explores the Works of Mercy in the real world, with a gut-level honesty and transparency that people of urban, country, and suburban locales alike can relate to. Mercy in the City is for anyone who is struggling to live in a meaningful, merciful way amid the pressures of “real life.”

For those who feel they are already overscheduled and too busy, for those who assume that they are not “religious enough” to practice the Works of Mercy, for those who worry that they are alone in their efforts to live an authentic life, Mercy in the City proves that by living as people for others, we learn to connect as people of faith.

I think this is going to be a great book to end Lent with as we enter into the Easter season; perhaps with more energy to take what we've learned in our reading and really apply it to live a more merciful life.

Mercy in the City Reading Schedule

This is a loose reading schedule that I'm hoping we can follow. No worries if you can't though, as these posts will always be here for you to add to the discussion at any point you get to reading.

This schedule starts this Sunday which will allow those who are interested to participate to get the book. The chapters are actually really short (4-10 pages in length) and seem like fairly easy reading. My plan is to post discussion questions related to the previous week's reading every Monday. You can then post your responses, thoughts, etc. in the comments. If that ends up seeming like too much "discussion" for one post, I might break it up, but I'll reassess as we go. If anyone else has any discussions questions that you can think of while reading, be sure to either let me know or post them in the comments.

Week 1:  3/15/15 - 3/21/15 ~ Intro through Chapter 9 - pages xi - 48

Week 2: 3/22/15 - 3/28/15 ~ Chapter 9 through Chapter 18 - pages 49 - 100

Week 3: 3/29/15 - 4/4/15 ~ Chapters 19 through Epilogue - pages 101 - 150

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Book Suggestions??

I want to start compiling list of books that would be of interest to the group to read so that we can keep on reading as we finish each book. I have some on my list, but lots of them are faith based parenting or marriage books, which I know won't appeal to the masses (but might appeal to some of you so just let me know!). So if you have a book on your shelf that you think would be great for the group to read together or you are looking for an excuse to buy a book that you have been wanting to read for awhile, leave a comment on this post or on the link I'll put on Facebook.

Please don't hesitate to let me know if you have any questions or suggestions related to our new ASYA Book Club!

Transforming Our Weaknesses with Jesus

Allo all!

What a great night! After all the housekeeping, Monica led the group in a talk/ reflection on how Jesus transformed the disciples and how we can learn from them to allow Jesus to transform us! She did an AWESOME JOB! Here's some of what she covered:

The apostles we just like you and I-- they weren't perfect saints.
Examples:
+ Apostles were afraid when travelling through the storm with Jesus
+ Apostles fell asleep when Jesus was in the garden
+ Peter had a temper
+ Thomas doubted

Old Testament prophets had weaknesses too:
+ Moses- was a nervous speaker, had to ask his brother to speak for him
+ Elijah was depressed all the time (the "emo prophet")
+ King David- had an affair

How did they accomplish what they did despite their weaknesses?
They were transformed. Why?
+ They were teachable, humble.

Humility-
In the humblest form, you are open to more graces and able to see God more.
Through weakness, you see God's power.

It's hard to be humble. Where am I consciously being humble in my daily life?

"Meekness isn't weakness. It's power under control."
"Humility is seeing yourself as you really are; through God's eyes."

If you want to be more humble, hang our with people who are.

Jesus acknowledged the apostles' weaknesses and gave them a vision of what they could be.

Those moments when we feel like "we can't do it", give your best and let God do it.

Peter isn't defined as "the Jesus deny-er", he is defined as St. Peter.
He wasn't faithful because he was successful, he was successful because he was faithful.

2 Corinthians 12:9

In your weakness, cling to Jesus.

Life lessons from the Disciples:
+ Peter- Failure does not disqualify you from serving Jesus.
+ John- Your Christian life is a work in progress. AND Your ability to love others is related to your understanding of God's love for you.
+ Paul- Adversity is an opportunity for you to trust God.

Thanks Monica for a great night!!!

2 in 1!

Allo!

So, last week I failed at writing about what we discussed at the meeting! We started off our Lenten Series by reading/ reflecting on the following article: http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Lent/BeyondChocolate.html
How do we make Lent about more that just what we gave up??
Because it was a week ago, I don't remember much about our conversation, though we did resolve a few Lent dilemmas and discussed how for some of us, what we gave up is making us think a lot more than we had expected!

This week we had a guest speaker: Tamara Rozofsky! A friend of Eunice, she came to us from Chicago and presented for us a talk about Theology and Humor. I had almost forgotten to take notes, but there was a LOT of excellent points made as she paralleled 4 rules of improv with the spiritual life! And what happens when WE are asked to improv a few things?

So what were those rules of improv and the associated words of wisdom?
1. "YES, and..."
When doing improv, you must always have the attitude of "yes, and..." Whatever your partner adds to the scene/ story, you accept and build on.
How does this connect? Consider Mary's "Yes", Peter when he first called while fishing, and (from last Sunday's first reading) Abraham when he was asked to sacrifice his son. All of these individuals said "YES" to their situation/ what they were asked to do "and...."

Anything is possible.
Saying "yes" opens doors.

2. Encounter
Simple things (gestures, eye contact, movement) influence the scene.
We receive what our partners give to us.
The important things are happening NOW.
How does this connect? Consider Elijah when he encounters God in the "still small voice" (1 Kings 19:9-12). God is always coming to us in ways we haven't experienced before.

3. Today's the Day
You just have to go with whatever is given to you.
You have to act as if whatever someone said is *exactly* what you've been wanting to hear!

4. Triggers and Wants
Triggers give clues/ better direction of what/ where we're going.
In our spiritual lives, triggers help us determine where/ how to use our gifts.

One takeaway of the night: Don't get caught up calculating/ analyzing everything in life! Just go with it. Trust God.

What a great night! Thanks to everyone who came! Looking forward to next week as our Lenten journey continues.....!

Mardi Gras, Lent, The Haven, & a Hike

Hi all!

I know, I know-- it says to come by every Tuesday night and see what we discussed, and there was no blog post on Tuesday night! But WOW, it was a busy, busy week, so I figured I'd just write this up on Saturday (today).

Tuesday was our Mardi Gras party, so we kept it casual. There were several different conversations happening at different times with topics ranging from Lent, Catholic Answers Live, potty training, and the single life (for the two of us singles who were there). Gladys also shared with us that a recent episode of Oprah's Super Soul Sunday featuring Fr. Richard Rohr! (Fr. Richard Rohr is a Catholic, Franciscan priest and plentiful author. Check out some of his work!).
I also took a new group picture. :)

Wednesday was Ash Wednesday-- I attended the 6pm Liturgy of the Word, and MAN was that PACKED! It always amazes me how many people show up for Ash Wednesday. Can you imagine what Mass and the Church would be like if that many people attended Mass EVERY Sunday??

Thursday was the first night of the Lenten Soup Dinner series! Every Thursday, it's a FREE dinner (donations accepted) along with a talk/ discussion related to Sunday's Gospel. The last ASYA meeting when we read/ discussed the Sunday's readings was a HUGE success and was well received by all. Though the soup dinners are not conducted in the same style as our previous meeting (Lectio Divina), it's still an excellent opportunity to be prepared for Mass and to spend time thinking about what God wants to say to us during this Lenten season.

Friday was the inaugural night of an exciting new branch of the ASYA: The Haven. Coordinated by Amanda Vernon, it was a prayerful, musical, thought-provoking evening, followed by a an after-party with wine and cheese. Because I have a commitment on Friday evenings, I was unable to make it to the music/ speaker portion of the night, but I was told that the message from the speaker was essentially this: spend Lent discerning your gifts and letting go of attachments so that in Easter you can fully utilize them.

And finally, today was our first ever fellowship hike up Mission Peak! What a great way to start off Lent. :) Judging by the pictures I've seen, it wasn't very "desert like" (it was very green, lol!), but it was an uphill climb, and how representative is that of our own lives and part of what Lent is about? :) Love it! I wasn't able to attend, but it seemed like everyone had a great time! Thanks Monica and John for coordinating this! Hopefully we'll have more hikes in the near future!

...phew! As I said, long week. :)

Anyway, may you have a blessed and fruitful Lent!
Hope to see you on Tuesday for our Lenten series!

New Structure, Setting Boundaries, Upcoming Events!

Hi all!

So, tonight we changed things up a bit, and did a form of Lectio Divina! Lectio Divina is a form of meditating with Scripture. You read the Scripture passage at least 3 times. The first time you just read it to get yourself familiar with the passage and what is says. Then you read it again and pay attention to what stands out to you. Then you read it a THIRD time to reflect on how whatever passage, phrase, or image connects with your life. Leaving out the personal stories, here's several of our insights from the night!

+ It's important to set boundaries, have time for yourself.
+ Pray for wisdom.
+ When it starts compromising your spirituality, it's a sign that you're doing too much!
+ Everyone who approached Jesus, got healed/ what they wanted.
+ Humility: seeing yourself the way God sees you

And a final insight from David:
+"You have to be careful to not highlight everything cause then you've highlighted nothing!"

It was a GREAT night of faith sharing. I was slightly nervous about it, but everyone really enjoyed it, so after the Lent and Easter series, you can expect to have more Lectio Divina nights!!

Speaking of Lent and Easter, our meetings during these times will definitely be more structured. We will start around 7:15-7:20. After that there will be [something! surprise!], followed by small group discussions. We've decided that we really need to set an alarm for like, 8:50 so people are aware of what time it is, and that before the first person who has to leave goes, we'd make sure to say a closing prayer. If we were deep in discussion, we could definitely keep that going, but if not we'd all head on home!

Also, we talked a little about the Easter series coming up (I know, Easter... it's not even Lent yet!). I got excited with an idea and tossed it out there and already planned most of the sessions in partnership with Jean. We'll be sponsoring the series, which really just means that we'll show up, maybe have a bit of info about the group, I'll introduce the speakers/ help keep time during the evenings, and things like that. Most of the legwork is on me, lol. The only thing I'd ask of the group is to help set up/ clean up and things that like that which can be taken care of in the evening. Those of you who play music might be asked to help lead play a few songs/ lead the parishioners in a 2-3 worship songs, but there's also several others at the parish who play, so we wouldn't be playing every single night. ;) I'll hopefully have all the details fleshed out and will be reaching out to several of you soon! In the meantime, can you think of any praise and worship songs related to discernment and hearing God's call? I have a list ("Here I Am, Lord", "Follow Me" by Leeland, etc), but I need a few more songs! If you think of any, pls email me or leave a comment below......

Anyway, I thought tonight was GREAT and am looking forward to the next few weeks!

Thanks, as always, for being leaders and attending the group! See ya next week for the Mardi Gras Party!!!

As ya were
As ya are
As ya be
You are welcome.
~ASYA

:)