Primary Session
John 14:23-29
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Dear Jesus,
you give us the gift of peace.
Help us to be peacemakers in our world.
In the name of Jesus we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is peace. Begin by inviting the children to brainstorm what they consider to be peaceful words and actions. Write down their responses. Discuss.
- What does it mean to be a peacemaker?
- Name some things that you can do at home, in school and with friends to help make the world a more peaceful place.
Jesus gave us the gift of his peace. We share that gift when we are peacemakers. Peacemakers try to get along with others and work to solve problems peacefully.
Listening to the Word of God
In the Gospel today Jesus leaves his disciples with a special gift. Listen to learn what it is.
Read John 14:23-29.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- What is Jesus trying to tell his disciples?
- What special gift does Jesus give them?
- What helper is coming to remind the disciples of what Jesus taught them?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel.
In the Gospel reading today Jesus tells his disciples that he will be leaving them to go back to his Father. Jesus tries to help his friends understand that even though he is leaving them, he will always be with them. Jesus tells his disciples that they will not be left alone. The Father will send the Holy Spirit to help them remember all that Jesus has taught them.
Jesus tells his disciples that he his leaving them with a very special gift, the gift of peace. The peace that Jesus gives his followers is different from the peace that the world has to give. The peace that Jesus gives lives in the hearts of believers forever. Jesus brings comfort and peace to his disciples by telling them that he will always be with them.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- How can you thank Jesus for the gift of peace?
- How can you share the gift of peace with others?
- What helps you feel peaceful?
If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Peace
The Catholic understanding of peace comes from the gift of peace that Jesus left with his disciples. This understanding of peace means more than the absence of fighting. The meaning of the word peace is found in the Hebrew word “shalom” in the Old Testament. “Shalom” means well being, total harmony with nature, God, and self. It is the benefit of God’s presence with his people.
Catholic teaching on peace calls us to be peacemakers at home, in school, and with our friends. We are called to work together to help make the world a more peaceful place.
- Who are people you know that help to make the world a more peaceful place?
- How can you help them?
- Where can you learn more about being peacemaker?
The Gospel in Life
Think of one thing that you can do at home or in school this week to be a peacemaker.
Connecting to Be My Disciples
Grade 1, chapter 7
Grade 2, chapters 7, 11
Grade 3, chapter 6
Blest Are We
Kindergarten, chapter 21
Grade 1, chapter 15
Grade 2, chapter 18
Grade 3, chapter 20
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