Sunday Seeds
Sunday, 8 November 2026

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel: Matthew 25:1–13

“Stay awake, because you do not know either the day or the hour.” Matthew 25:13

Liturgical colour: Green
Ten Bridesmaids and Their Lamps: worksheet for age 6
for age 6
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Keep Your Lamp Shining!: worksheet for age 4
for age 4
Open PDFDownload

For grown-ups

This Sunday’s readings are about being ready and awake for God. Wisdom is described as radiant and easily found by those who look for her, and the Psalm sings of a soul thirsting for God. Jesus’ story of the ten bridesmaids shows that readiness is quiet and everyday: the wise ones simply brought extra oil. St Paul adds comfort, that those who have died in Christ are not lost, and we will be with the Lord for ever.

For a family, the oil is ordinary habits: a bedtime prayer, saying sorry before the day ends, going to Mass even when everyone is tired. None of it is dramatic, but it keeps the lamp lit. And Jesus is not trying to frighten us; he wants every one of us at his joyful feast. This week, notice the small things that keep your home’s light burning, and be gentle with yourselves when the oil runs low.

Dinner-table questions

  1. What did the wise bridesmaids bring to keep their lamps shining?
  2. What is one thing we do every day to get ready for Jesus?
  3. Who is someone we love who is with Jesus now, and what do you remember about them?
This week’s family practice: Before bed each night, light a small candle or torch, say one thing you did today to love someone, and pray together: “Jesus, help us be ready for you.”

This Sunday’s readings

First reading
Wisdom 6:12–16
Psalm
Psalm 62(63) — My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.
Second reading
1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
Gospel
Matthew 25:1–13