Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B.

REFLECTION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE – by Lisa-Marie Calderone-Stewart

When Joshua tells the tribes of Israelites that he and his family have chosen to serve the one true God, he is able to speak on behalf of his wife and children. In his culture children and women are property. Whatever the husband and father says, the wife and children have to agree with.

Do you disagree with any of the opinions that your parents have? Do you and your parents have the same preferences in the area of religious beliefs and practices? Or do you have different styles of faith and prayer? If there are differences, how are they dealt with at home?

Do you think that life would be simpler, better and easier if all children were required to agree with their parents and go along with whatever they say? Why or why not?

When children disagree with parents, what are some respectful and courteous ways to communicate with parents and discuss important issues? How can children and parents get along and deal with huge differences that can separate them and cause negative feelings?

© St Mary’s Press
Lisa-Marie Calderone-Stewart (1958-2011) gained her doctorate in education from Cardinal Stritch University and was associate director of early adolescent ministry in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. Previously she served for six years as the director of youth ministry for the Diocese of Grand Island, Nebraska. She also established “Tomorrow’s Present”, a youth leadership ministry. She was a highly regarded speak and wrote many books on spirituality and youth ministry.