This week we will deviate from the daily Mass readings to spend a little time in Isaiah and Acts. All the material is new for this year's Oriens and I hope it will have a positive impact on you. Beware of the action of the Enemy who may try to distract and discourage you from consistently praying this week. If you find yourself struggling at times, just know that struggles are a normal part of a pilgrimage. Take up your cross and perhaps offer some prayers and sacrifices for your fellow pilgrims. God be with you!

Small Group Outline

In addition to the daily prayer time, some folks might want to meet with friends or family for an in person or their own virtual group. Here is an outline to facilitate such a meeting.

1. Opening Prayer
   The leader opens the group with this prayer or with a prayer he or she has composed themselves. "Father in heaven, you have called us to be your children and blessed us with every spiritual gift. Help us to receive and live our true identity in Jesus Christ. Keep us from the distractions and discouragements of the Enemy. May your Holy Spirit to enlighten, guide, and bless us today. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen."
2. Group Check-In
   Go around the room and share a burden and a blessing you experienced this past week. Where did you see Jesus, or who were you Jesus to this week?
3. Suggested Discussion Questions
   
   1. If you meet early in the week, you can draw on some of the questions from week seven.
   2. Which scripture passage this week spoke to you most powerfully?
   3. What does it mean to call yourself a "servant of God?" How do I feel about that title?
   4. How have you experienced hunger, thirst, or exile in a spiritual sense?
   5. What helps you to remember God's "unshakeable love" for you?
   6. What lies have made me feel lost?
   7. What truths have helped me to find myself again?
   8. I experienced Jesus' personal love for me...
      
4. Group leader should not feel pressure to get every question answered. Allow people the space to say anything and to have an honest, fruitful discussion, while also being mindful of the time allotted. It is important to end the formal part of the Bible Study at the time agreed upon by the group.
5. Close with a prayer. Ask the group what they would like prayers for. Then conclude by praying an Our Father together.