Primary Session John 14:1-12
Let us pray. Jesus, you show us the way. Help us to love one another as you love us. It is in your name that we pray. Amen.
The theme for today is our baptismal call to love and serve the Lord. Begin by inviting the children to create “helping hands.” Explain that as baptized Catholics, we follow Jesus’ example by helping others. On a large sheet of newsprint paper write the words “We can help others” across the bottom. Provide each child with a half-sheet of construction paper, scissors and a marker. Have glue available. Invite the children to spread their fingers apart and trace the shape of one of their hands on the paper. Have them write their first name on the hand and cut it out. Invite the children to come forward and glue their handprint to the large poster. Discuss:
Allow time for discussion. Jesus shows us how to live. He is the way the truth and the life. Our Baptism helps us to follow the example of Jesus.
In the Gospel today, listen to Jesus help his followers find their way. Read John 14:1-12. Allow for silence.
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel using the Catechist Background section. In today’s Gospel the disciples are troubled about Jesus leaving them. So Jesus helps his followers understand that they will not be left alone. When they want to know where he is going, Jesus comforts his friends. He tells them that he will return and take his followers with him. They have a place in his Father’s house. In this Gospel, the departure of Jesus is not seen as a loss. Jesus reassures his followers that there is room enough for everyone in God’s House. Today’s Gospel passage also makes the point that all believers are called to take action and continue the work of Jesus in the world.
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Jesus Christ is the one high priest. Jesus shows his followers how to lead by serving others. Jesus was sent by the Father to serve the needs of the world and to bring about our salvation. Jesus is with us always. He sends the Holy Spirit upon all members of the Church. All the faithful are made holy by baptism. By our baptism we share in the priesthood of Jesus. The Holy Spirit helps us continue the work of Jesus in the world. The ordained priesthood exists to help and serve the baptismal call of all. The center of the ministerial priesthood is the celebration of the Eucharist.
How can you live as a follower of Jesus this week? Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition At Home Family Guide, theme 27 Kindergarten, chapter 9 Grade 1, page 275 parish and page 379 school and chapters 17 and 6 Grade 2, page 275 parish and page 379 school and chapter 17 Grade 3, page 275 parish and page 379 school and chapter 17