Primary Session John 14:1-12
Opening Prayer
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.
Opening Life Reflection
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:
- Who are people in your community that may need help? (Perhaps a new child at school, an elderly neighbor, or someone at home.)
- How can you reach out to help others?
- How does Jesus show us how to help others?
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.
Listen to the Word of God
In the Gospel today, listen to Jesus help his followers find their way. Read John 14:1-12. Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- Why are the disciples concerned about Jesus leaving them?
- How does Jesus comfort his friends?
- What does Jesus tell his followers about his Father’s house?
- Why does Jesus tell his friends to continue his work?
Scripture Background
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.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- What does Jesus tell his friends about his Father’s house?
- How can the work of Jesus continue in the world?
- Who does the work of Jesus in the world today?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Sacrament of Holy Orders and the Common Priesthood of the Baptized
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 did Jesus lead others?
- How can you follow Jesus’ example?
- Who are some leaders in your community?
The Gospel in Life
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