Intermediate Session
Genesis 14:18-20
Luke 9:11b-17
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Jesus, Bread of Life, thank you for your gift of Eucharist.
Help us to share with others as you share yourself with us.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
On the feast of The Body and Blood of Christ we celebrate our belief in the Eucharist. At Mass the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ. Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist. Begin today’s session by inviting the children to create a mealtime grace to share at home. Provide each child with paper cut out into the shape of a loaf of bread, and a pencil. Discuss:
• Why is sharing a meal important?
• When do you share meals with your family?
• How is partaking in Eucharist like sharing a meal?
Allow time for discussion. Jesus shared many meals with his friends. In the Eucharist, Jesus gives himself to us in the bread and wine.
Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading listen to how Abram is blessed in the sharing of a meal.
Read Genesis 14:18-20.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
• Who brings out the bread and wine?
• Who receives the blessing?
• Why is a meal shared?
In the gospel today listen to how thousands of people are fed.
Read Luke 9:11b-17.
Allow for silence.
• Why do the crowds follow Jesus?
• What are the disciples concerned about?
• How much food do they start out with?
• What does Jesus tell the disciples to do?
• What happens to the five loaves of bread and the two fish?
• Who is fed?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings.
The blessing of bread and wine is at the forefront of today’s Old Testament reading. The early Christians understood this scene as a foreshadowing of the eucharistic mystery. Melchizedek bestows a blessing of victory over Abram. The Israelites understood that this blessing would be passed down to all subsequent rulers on the throne of David.
The miracle of the loaves and fishes in today’s gospel tells of God’s abundance. All are welcome at the table of the Lord. There is plenty for everyone. The multiplication of the loaves and fishes is the only miracle found in all four Gospels. The language that is used in all of the Gospels (“taking…raised his eyes…pronounced a blessing…broke…gave”) makes clear the eucharistic significance of this miracle.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
• What do these readings tell us about sharing meals?
• What does the miracle of the loaves and fishes tell us about God?
• Why is it important to share with others?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Real Presence
On the feast of the Body and Blood of Christ we proclaim our belief in the Eucharist. At Mass the assembly gathers in faith, and God makes present Jesus, his body and blood, in the bread and wine offered in the Eucharist. This is the “real presence” of Christ.
Sharing in the Eucharist joins us with Christ and one another. We are fed so that we can go forth and love one another. We receive the Bread of Life so that we can share that bread with those who are hungry.
• What does it mean to believe that Jesus is really present in the Eucharist?
• How does the Eucharist help you to love others?
• How can you help people who are hungry?
The Gospel in Life
This week look into what organizations in your community work to feed the hungry. Find out how you and your friends can get involved.
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