Primary Session
John 10:1-10
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Jesus our Good Shepherd,
You care for us and keep us safe.
Thank you for giving your life for us.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is Jesus, the Good Shepherd. To begin, provide sheep patterns for the children by cutting out a basic lamb shape on card stock paper. Provide construction paper, cotton, scissors, crayons, and glue for the children to trace and cut out the pattern and create a fluffy lamb by gluing cotton balls on the body. The eye can be drawn on the face with a crayon. Explain to the children that Jesus tells us that he is our Good Shepherd and we are his sheep. Discuss:
- How do shepherds care for their sheep?
- Who cares for and protects you?
- How does Jesus care for you?
Allow time for discussion. A good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep. Jesus is our Good Shepherd.
Listen to the Word of God
In the Gospel today listen to how Jesus is like a good shepherd.
Read John 10:1-10.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- What does Jesus say about being like a good shepherd?
- What happens when he calls his sheep by name?
- What does Jesus tell the people about how he will lead them?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel using the Catechist Background section.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us that he is our Good Shepherd. Long ago in Jesus’ time, a good shepherd would lay down his life for his sheep. The sheep would recognize the shepherd’s voice and follow him. In those days, the shepherd would walk in front of the sheep and lead them.
Jesus knows us by name. We are the sheep of his flock. Jesus asks his followers to listen for the voice of the Good Shepherd and follow him. In today’s Gospel we see that Jesus is a leader who is willing to lay down his life for his flock. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who protects and cares for his followers with unending love.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- How is Jesus like a good shepherd?
- How does Jesus care for his flock?
- How can we listen for Jesus’ voice?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Jesus, the Good Shepherd
Jesus showed God’s love for us by caring for people. Jesus, the Good Shepherd helps us learn about God’s love. In the Scriptures, the Good Shepherd is the leader who lays down his life for his flock. He guides and protects his sheep. Jesus had all these qualities and even gave his life for us.
We are members of God’s flock, the Church. We put our faith and trust in God because God loves us and will always care for us.
- Why is Jesus our Good Shepherd?
- How does Jesus show God’s love for us?
- How can you show your love for Jesus?
The Gospel in Life
Bring home your lamb and tell your family about Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 27
Kindergarten, page 169
Grade 1, page 273 parish and page 377 school and chapter 34
Grade 2, page 273 parish and page 377 school and chapter 5
Grade 3, page 273 parish and page 377 school and chapter 5
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