Primary Session
John 10:27-30
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Dear Jesus,
you are our good shepherd.
You love and care for your sheep.
Help us to always follow you as you
lead us toward what is good and right.
In the name of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
On this Fourth Sunday of Easter we are given the images of sheep and shepherd. Begin by inviting the children to reflect on the following questions:
- Who are the people in your life who care for you and watch over you?
- How do they care for you?
- Do you listen to them?
A good shepherd watches over and cares for his sheep.
- How is Jesus like a good shepherd?
- How are we like sheep?
Allow time for discussion. Jesus cares for us and watches over us. Jesus used the image of the good shepherd to describe his relationship to us. A good shepherd will lay down his life for his sheep.
Listening to the Word of God
Listen to what the gospel tells us about Jesus the Good Shepherd.
Read John 10:27-30.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- What does Jesus tell us about his sheep?
- What does Jesus promise to give his sheep?
- Who are Jesus’ sheep?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel.
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as Good Shepherd Sunday because the image of shepherd is used to describe the relationship between Jesus and those who belong to him.
In today’s gospel Jesus describes himself as a shepherd who loves and cares for his sheep. Those who follow Jesus are his sheep. Today’s gospel passage tells us that those who belong to Jesus are held safely in the hand of God.
Jesus also promises that his sheep will never perish. Not only does Jesus give his followers guidance and protection, they are also promised the gift of eternal life.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- How does it help you to know that you are safely held in God’s hand?
- How do you show Jesus that you love him?
- How can you help others to follow Jesus?
If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Divinity of Christ
We believe that Jesus and God are together as one. Jesus has shown us who God is as Father and Creator. Also, because of the total love that they share, Jesus reveals to us the nature of God.
At liturgy, the Church prays what we believe about the Trinity. We proclaim that Christ is “begotten, not made, one in Being with the Father.”
- What helps you to grow in your understanding of God?
- How does Jesus help you to know God better?
- What does it mean that Jesus and God are One?
The Gospel in Life
How can you show your family and friends this week that Jesus is the Good Shepherd and you are one of his sheep?
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 27
Kindergarten, p. 169
Grade 1, page 273 Parish and page 377 School
Grade 2, page 273 Parish and page 377 School
Grade 3, page 273 Parish and page 377 School
Blest Are We
Kindergarten, chapter 18
Grade 1, chapter 9
Grade 2, chapter 13
Grade 3, chapter 7
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