Intermediate Session
Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10
Luke 1:39-56
Opening Prayer
Let us pray the Hail Mary.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you!
Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The focus for today is Mary’s assumption into heaven. To begin invite the children to brainstorm people whom they consider to be role models. Write down their responses on a chalkboard or large sheet of poster paper. Provide thin markers and strips of cardstock paper cut in the shape of bookmarks. Invite the children to create a bookmark that promotes heroic activities and encourages loving actions that children can take in their own communities. Discuss:
• How does your bookmark encourage children to take loving action?
• Who are some people today who reach out to others with love and concern?
• How can role models help us strive to be the best we can be?
Allow time for discussion. True heroes model faith and courage while showing love for others. Mary is a role model of faithfulness and trust in God. Mary is an example for us of how we should live.
Listening to the Word of God
In today’s first reading, listen to find out what appears in a vision in the sky.
Read Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
• What great sign appears in the sky?
• How is the woman clothed?
• What happens to the woman and her son?
In the gospel reading listen to Mary praise God for the great things God has done for her.
Read Luke 1:39-56.
Allow for silence.
• Who does Mary visit?
• What happens when Mary greets Elizabeth?
• How does Mary praise God?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background on the readings using the Catechist Background section.
Today’s first reading from the book of Revelation was written to help the early Christian community overcome obstacles during a time of persecution. The passage introduces a vision of a woman “clothed with the sun.” The woman gives birth to a son. Both the woman and child are close to God and despite obstacles, they remain in God’s care. Today’s reading is a tale of God’s ultimate triumph over evil forces at work in the world. The Christian community is encouraged by the understanding that they too are in God’s care.
This gospel reading from Luke reflects on the identity and mission of Jesus. The spotlight is on Mary who enjoys great blessings by virtue of her offspring. Mary’s proclamation reminds us of our faith in “God who is mighty [and who] has done great things.”
Questions for Deeper Reflection
• What great things has God done for you?
• Where do you see signs of God’s love in the world?
• How does Mary show great faith in God?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Assumption of Mary
Today’s feast of the Assumption of Mary celebrates a unique participation in Christ’s resurrection. This doctrine teaches that the resurrection we hope for, Mary now enjoys completely. The Mother of God has been taken up fully into the life of God which awaits us all. Today’s feast celebrates Mary as a model of faith for all believers.
• What does today’s feast celebrate?
• Why is Mary a role model of faith?
• What does Mary teach us about everlasting life with God?
The Gospel in Life
This week invite your family to pray a decade of the rosary together.
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