Junior High 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 young people to reflect on what obstacles they face in their present lives. Provide a blank sheet of paper and pencils. Invite the young people to list three obstacles or problems that they face on the paper. Have them choose one and explain how dealing with the problem can help make them a stronger and more faithful person. Discuss.
• What helps you deal with obstacles in life?
• Why is faith in God important?
• How can overcoming obstacles help you become a stronger person?
Allow time for discussion. Dealing with obstacles in life requires faith and courage. Mary is a model for us. She shows us that with faith and trust in God, we can overcome obstacles and grow closer to God.
Listening to the Word of God
In today’s first reading, listen to how a great sign appears 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 reading 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. This 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.
Today’s 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 triumph over evil?
• How does Mary’s faith in God inspire you?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Assumption of Mary
The 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 model of faith?
• How does today’s feast give all believers hope in everlasting life with God?
The Gospel in Life
Think about how you can say “yes” to God—as Mary did—this week.
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