Things to talk about:

• Who do the different people in the story represent (i.e., the landowner, servants, tenants, the son)? What does the vineyard represent?
• Why do some people turn away from the presence of God in their lives?
• What should we do to be good vineyard citizens?
• If you were accused of being a disciple of Jesus, would there be enough evidence in your life to convict you?

Things to do:

• Get involved in Transfiguration Serves October 14-15. Click HERE for details
• As you change to fall clothes, see what you can donate. Drop them off at the St Vincent de Paul thrift store, our clients receive credits based on our donations and volunteer hours. (I know this is mostly a mom job, but please share with your family what you are doing and why.
• Donate a propane cylinder for the unsheltered. Drop off on Friday, October 6 to Women in Faith in Social Hall or Joyce’s office, https://www.walmart.com/ip/Coleman-All-Purpose-Propane-Gas-Cylinder-16oz/20923696
• Drop off a note or gift for Priesthood Sunday to thank them for being Vineyard Citizens.

Did you know… that in this Gospel, Jesus refers to the stone that the builders rejected that becomes the cornerstone? This image is taken from Psalm 118. The Psalms are central to the Jewish worship. In Psalm 118, which thanks God or his mighty deeds, the verse Jesus quotes is intended to show that God takes what may seem insignificant to humans and uses it for great purpose.

Closing Prayer

Lord, we thank you for the many unique gifts you have given each of us. We will be vineyard citizen to use those gifts to serve others, which really serves YOU. Everyday we will look for opportunities to love others.

Catholic Insights

This Gospel is a foreshadowing of the passion of Christ. This parable reminds us that we are called to work in God’s vineyard and that we should make the most of the gifts we are given. Will others be able to tell that we are Jesus’ disciples by the work that we do?

Symbolically, the vineyard represents life in relationship with God. The servants sent by the vineyard owner represent the prophets. The son who is killed by the vineyard tenants represents Jesus. The fruit of the vineyard are our acts of love, kindness, compassion and mercy. The vineyard owner is God the Father. The tenants have become so overwhelmed with the sin of pride that they don’t even remember who gave them the fertile land.

We are all challenged to be vineyard citizens and use our God-given talents to serve others, which ultimately serves God.