Primary Session
Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
O God, bless all our families
so that we may love one another and follow the example of the Holy Family.
In the name of Christ our Lord we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The focus for today is family. To begin, invite the children to draw a picture of their favorite or most memorable family event. Provide paper, pencils, and crayons. Invite the children to share their picture with the large group. Discuss:
- What family activities make you happy?
- How do the members of your family help each other?
- Do you listen to your parents?
Allow time for discussion. Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family. Jesus’ life with Mary and Joseph was holy. Therefore, family life is a source of holiness for all Christians.
Listening to the Word of God
In today’s Gospel listen to find out about the Holy Family.
Read Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- How does Joseph listen to God?
- How does Joseph take care of his family?
- Why does Joseph take Mary and Jesus to Egypt?
- Why does Joseph take Mary and Jesus to Nazareth?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the Gospel.
On today’s feast of the Holy Family the Church celebrates that Jesus was born into a family. Because Jesus was born into a family we recognize his humanity. Jesus’ life with Mary and Joseph was holy. The Holy Family helps us to see that family life is a source of holiness for all Christians.
In today’s Gospel Joseph listens to God and cares for his family. Joseph guides his family to safety with God’s help. Joseph, Mary, and Jesus listen to the angel of the Lord and they leave Egypt and settle down in Nazareth.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- Who are the members of the Holy Family?
- Who takes care of you?
- How is your family holy?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Fourth Commandment: Honor Your Father and Mother
In the Old Testament God shows his love for the people of Israel by giving them commands to live by. The Law was given to help God’s people live holy lives. The commands of God are meant to be a guide for people, not a burden.
In the New Testament Jesus follows God’s commands closely. When Jesus is asked which commandment is the greatest, he says to love God and to love one’s neighbor.
God gave us the commandment to honor our parents, to show us how to love others. We honor our family members by showing them respect. Catholic teaching on the Fourth Commandment tells family members how to treat one another. Children are to respect and obey their parents and guardians. Parents and guardians are to provide for their children’s growth and wellbeing, remembering that they are children of God.
- How do God’s commandments guide us?
- What does the Fourth Commandment tell us about how we should treat our parents and family members?
- How does your family show love and respect for you?
The Gospel in Life
How can you show respect for your parents and other family members this week?
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 25
Kindergarten, page 161 and chapters 8 and 10
Grade 1, page 247 parish and page 357 school and chapter 3
Grade 2, page 247 parish and page 357 school and chapter 20
Grade 3, page 247 parish and page 357 school and chapter 5
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