Primary Session
Mark 5:21-43
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Dear Jesus,
You heal us in ways we sometimes don’t even know. Please give us the faith to trust in you. Help us always remember to take our cares to you. In Jesus’ name we pray,
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
Think of a time when you were very sick. Who took care of you? What did they do? Think of a time when someone in your family was sick. What did you to take care of them?
Listening to the Word of God
Jesus recognized the faith of the two people in today’s Gospel. He honored them for their faith and told them that because of their great faith, healing happened.
Read Mark 5:21-43
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
• Why do you think the sick woman and the girl’s father came to Jesus in the Gospel story today?
• What do you think was going through the mind of Jesus’ disciples when Jesus asked them who in the crowd had touched him?
• Why do you think the people from the man’s house tried to get him to leave Jesus and go home?
Scripture Background
There are two people in this Gospel whose faith is strong—strong enough for Jesus to cure the woman and heal the man’s child. Other people, like the ones who came to get the father, did not have faith. They knew the little girl was dead and nothing more could be done except for the father going home. Jesus’ actions in today’s Gospel remind us that faith in Jesus goes beyond suffering and death.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
• Who do you know whose faith is very strong?
• What are some ways that we can deepen our own faith?
• Is there a way we can help bring about healing to those who are hurt and sad?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Sanctity of Human Life
God is the author of all life and therefore, every life is sacred. Together with God and one another, it is our responsibility to keep all of God’s creation safe. This means we cannot hurt or destroy another person on purpose. One of the Ten Commandments God gave us is “You shall not kill.” For the common good of all people we must work together with and obey God, keeping all of creation safe.
• What are some areas of creation that are at risk today?
• Who are some people you see working with God to protect creation?
• What do you do to help God protect creation?
Sacrament Connection
Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament that gives faith, hope and love for God to people who are very sick or dying. We can receive this sacrament anytime we are seriously ill. The sacrament helps join us to Jesus who knows how it feels to suffer. Sometimes people recover from their illness, but other times, the sacrament helps us prepare for our journey back to God.
The Gospel in Life
How can you bring about healing in someone’s life this week? Is there someone you know who is in pain? Is there something you can do to help lighten another’s load or give him/her courage?
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