March 2006 Discussion Questions

Adults

Food is probably the first and most obvious of God’s gifts for which we should be grateful. Do you say grace before meals? Why or why not?

The first woman in the parable was a good steward in so many simple ways – grateful for the gift of food, conscientious about her health, sharing what she had with someone who had less… In what ways are you a good steward? Of what aspects of your life might you be a better steward?

The fast on Ash Wednesday is meant to help us experience first-hand the hunger felt by the poor – and to help us be more grateful for all that we take for granted. What will you do this Lent to sustain that awareness until Easter?

Teens

“Fast food,” junk food,” – what’s your ’tude about food? Do you always have enough to eat? Do you take it for granted or remember to be grateful?

Jesus considered eating together so important that he used a meal to institute the Eucharist. When was the last time you sat down to eat with your family? Was it a joy or an obligation? Why?

Prayer, almsgiving (giving to the poor), and fasting are the three traditional Lenten practices. Why do you think “fasting” made the big three? What will you fast from this Lent?

Children

One lady in this story was very sensible; the other one was quite greedy. Which one did you like best? Which one are you most like?

What is your favorite food? When do you get to eat it? Who prepares it for you? If someone could see you eating it, would they be able to tell that you are thankful for it? How?

During Lent, grown-up Catholics are asked to give up something that gets between them and God (to fast), to be kind and generous to the poor when they can (to give alms), and to pray more often or more deeply. Will you do something special this Lent to help you grow closer to God? What will it be?