Primary Session
Mark 14:1-15:47 [or short form 15:1-39]
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Loving God, you are always with us.
Sometimes when we are hurt or sad, you may seem far away.
Remind us that you love us, and hold us gently in your arms.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The topic of today is the Gift of Perseverance. To begin, ask for volunteers to act out a situation where someone reaches out to another person who is hurt or sad. You may want to have different volunteers act out several situations. Discuss:
• What was it like to see someone help another person who is hurt or sad?
• How can you reach out to others at school and at home?
• Who can you turn to when you feel hurt or sad?
Allow time for discussion. God loves and cares for us. We can turn to God when we are feeling hurt or sad.
Listening to the Word of God
In the gospel reading today, listen to hear the story of Jesus' suffering and death.
Read Mark 14:1-15:47 [or short form 15:1-39].
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
• Where are Jesus' friends when he is arrested?
• What happens when Jesus is handed over to Pilate?
• What does Jesus cry out to God before he dies on the cross?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel using the Catechist Background section.
On this Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion, the Church's Holy Week begins. In today's celebration we recall the time when Jesus rode into Jerusalem, and the people praised Jesus and spread palm branches in his path. Upon Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, the people spread palm branches and shouted, "Hosanna in the Highest!"
In this gospel we hear the story of Jesus' suffering and death. In this account of the passion, Jesus' friends leave him alone to face his suffering and death. Jesus is handed over to Pilate where he is condemned to death. The horrible method of Roman execution at the time is crucifixion. Pilate follows the wishes of the crowd and gives Jesus over to be crucified. Jesus cries out to God from the cross feeling like even God has left him as he faces his death alone.
In today's gospel, Jesus' passion is not only a story of how Jesus is left to face his death alone. It is also the story of the Son of God who never gave up on in his mission. Even when Jesus felt alone and cried out to God in prayer, he had faith in God's love. Through his death, Jesus healed the relationship between God and God's people forever.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
• When do you feel hurt or alone?
• Do you turn to God for help?
• How can God help you when you are hurting?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Gift of Perseverance
Throughout our lives we experience difficulties along the way. While Jesus came to bring God's kingdom among us, it is not yet here on earth in full. Suffering, evil, and sin exist in our world. Despite these experiences of difficulty, evil and sin, we Catholics believe that God is with us, lovingly guiding us through it all.
As we experience blessings and trials throughout our lives, we trust that our lives are in the hands of God. The love of God guides us on right paths. When we are hurt or sad we can pray for the gift of perseverance. Perseverance means that even in hard times we are people of hope. Catholics believe that God saves us and guides us through every difficulty that we face.
Jesus Christ has shown us how to persevere. He is our model, guide, and teacher. Sometimes when we are hurt or sad, God may seem far away. We need to remember God's love for us. Even in the toughest situations, we can hold on to our faith in God.
• What is the gift of perseverance?
• What helps remind you of God's love for you?
• Why is Jesus a model and guide for us?
Sacrament Connection
In the Sacrament of Confirmation we are strengthened by the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Our faith in God is made stronger. In times of difficulty we can call on the power of the Holy Spirit to help us persevere.
The Gospel in Life
How can you turn to God when you are feeling sad or alone?
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