Primary Session
John 21:1-19
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for always being with us.
Help us to recognize you
in the faces of everyone we meet.
In the name of Jesus we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
On this Third Sunday of Easter we celebrate the Risen Christ who is with us always. Today’s session highlights how we are nourished by Jesus’ presence in the Eucharistic meal. To begin, invite the children to draw a picture of themselves and their family sharing a meal. Provide each child with a sheet of paper and crayons. Discuss:
- What special meals do you celebrate with your family?
- What special meal do we celebrate when we go to Mass?
Allow time for discussion. Jesus shared special meals with his family and friends. After he was raised from the dead, Jesus’ friends recognized him when they shared a meal together. At Mass we celebrate a special meal called Eucharist. Every time we celebrate Mass, Jesus is present.
Listening to the Word of God
In the gospel listen to how the disciples recognize Jesus when they share a meal.
Read John 21:1-19.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- What are the disciples doing when Jesus calls out to them?
- Are they having any luck catching fish?
- What does Jesus tell them to do?
- What happens when they do what Jesus tells them?
- What meal does Jesus share with the disciples?
- When do his followers recognize Jesus?
- What does Jesus ask Peter?
- How does Peter answer Jesus?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel.
Today’s gospel begins with the disciples having trouble catching fish. Then Jesus appears and tells them where to cast their nets. The result is a catch so great that the nets are bulging.
Jesus and the disciples take the fish that are caught and they share breakfast on the beach. As they share this meal together, the disciples know that the risen Lord is with them.
After the meal, Jesus asks the disciple who betrayed him, “Peter do you love me?” He asks the question three times. Each time Peter answers, “Yes.” Jesus responds with a request, “Feed my sheep.” Like a shepherd who cares for his flock, Jesus is asking Peter to nourish and care for all people. Peter is being called to follow Jesus and in doing so to give his very life.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- How does Jesus help you when you are having a hard time with something?
- Where do you see Jesus?
- When do you celebrate Jesus’ presence at a meal?
If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Eucharist and Mission
Christians are called to follow Jesus. Followers of Jesus love and care for others. The risen Christ strengthened the first disciples so that they could love and care for others.
The risen Christ strengthens us as well. Catholics believe that the meal of Eucharist gives us the strength to love God and others. The Eucharistic meal increases our love for the poor and it renews our faith. The Eucharistic liturgy, the Mass, strengthens us to live as followers of Jesus.
- What do we celebrate at Mass?
- How does the celebration of Eucharist help us to live as followers of Jesus?
The Gospel in Life
How can you live as a follower of Jesus this week at home, in school and with friends?
Connecting to Be My Disciples
Grade 1, chapter 11
Grade 2, p. 13, all Disciples Power reviews
Grade 3, chapter 1, all Disciple Power reviews
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 27
Kindergarten, page 169
Grade 1, page 271 Parish and page 375 School
Grade 2, page 271 Parish and page 375 School
Grade 3, page 271 Parish and page 375 School
Blest Are We
Kindergarten, chapter 21
Grade 1, chapters 1,2
Grade 2, chapter 11
Grade 3, chapters 5,11
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