Primary Session
Matthew 9:36-10:8
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
O God, thank you for giving us the Church.
Help us live together as members of your Church family.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is the mystery of the Church. To begin write the word “Church” vertically down the side of a large sheet of poster paper. For each letter in the word CHURCH, invite the children to think of a sentence to express what “Church” means to them. Write down their responses. Discuss:
• Who is the Church?
• Why is the Church called the People of God?
• What do the members of the Church do?
Allow time for discussion. The Church is a community of people who believe in Jesus. Together we follow Jesus and share Jesus’ love with others.
Listening to the Word of God
In the gospel today, listen to find out how Jesus wants his followers to live.
Read Matthew 9:36-10:8.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
• Why does Jesus show concern for the people?
• How are the people like sheep without a shepherd?
• What does Jesus want his followers to do?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel using the Catechist Background section.
In today’s gospel, Jesus shows his love and care for the people. He shows his love by healing the sick and teaching the crowds about the love of God. Jesus wants his followers to continue his loving work on earth. The disciples are called by Jesus to help others who are sick, poor, or in need. The disciples are given the mission to share Jesus’ love with everyone. The Church continues this mission in the world today.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
• How does Jesus show his love and care for people?
• How does Jesus want his followers to show love for others?
• How does the Church help those who are sick, poor, or in need?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Mystery of the Church
We believe that the Church is the people of God. As Church, we are members of God’s family who live together with faith in Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Church includes all members who are alive now and all the followers of Jesus who have died.
As the Church we are one body, the Body of Christ. Jesus is the head of the Church and we make up his Body. We believe in Jesus Christ and we join with others to live as followers of Christ. As followers of Jesus we help others who are sick, hungry, or in need. We share our love for Jesus with one another.
• What do we believe about the Church?
• Who belongs to the Church?
• How do members of the Church live as followers of Jesus?
The Gospel in Life
How can you help others who are sick or in need this week?
Call Us Today!