Current Liturgical Season: Eastertide

The great Fifty Days of rejoicing in the Risen Lord begins at the Great Vigil of Easter and leads us to the great feast of Pentecost. During this season, the Paschal Candle is lit at all worship services and "Alleluia" is sung on every possible occasion. It is a time of great festivity, especially after the simplicity and austerity of Lent and quiet solemnity of Holy Week. There is no fasting - and usually no kneeling since standing is the symbolic posture of living the risen life. The liturgical color is white, except for the day of Pentecost when red dominates as a reminder of the flame of faith brought by the Holy Spirit. Some other notable features of this season:

All through Eastertide, we read from the Acts of the Apostles, the story of the beginnings of the Church.
We focus on the post resurrection appearances of Jesus to the first disciples - a way of strengthening their faith until the coming of the Holy Spirit.
We acknowledge the coming of Spring in the celebration of Rogation Days in the Sixth Week of Easter - asking for God's blessing on the new life growing after winter sleep. This is also a time to focus our attention on our stewardship of Creation.
We reflect on how Jesus remains among God's people in the Holy Spirit.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we cannot yet gather as a group until conditions are safer. As we enter this joyous season, we are given the opportunity to give thanks to God and our express hopes for the future by making time to grow more deeply in our faith.

Since you know your family's needs better than anyone, you will be able to use these resources and suggestions in ways uniquely appropriate to your family.

Scroll down this page or click on the appropriate day at right to the current Sunday to find resources and suggestions for each week.

April 17, 2022: Easter Sunday
April 24, 2022: Second Sunday of Easter
May 1, 2022: Third Sunday of Easter
May 8, 2022: Fourth Sunday of Easter
May 15, 2022: Fifth Sunday of Easter
May 22, 2022: Sixth Sunday of Easter
May 29, 2022: Seventh Sunday of Easter
June 5, 2022: Pentecost

The Day of the Lord's Resurrection - Easter Sunday - April 17

On Good Friday, Jesus was carried into the tomb. This morning, the tomb is empty! As Christians, we hear this with happy ears, knowing that an empty tomb means that Jesus has been raised from the dead. And while Jesus is still with us, it is in a new and different way.

Readings for this Sunday

The readings for Easter Sunday:
(Click on the link for the text of each reading from this Sunday.)

Godly Play online!

Today's Godly Play video for this week begins a new series about knowing Jesus in a new way.

Acts 10:34-43 (Theme: Peter's missionary speech to Cornelius, a Gentile centurion, summarizes the basic message of the early Church - it is our foundational message about God's saving acts in the person of Jesus Christ.)
1 Corinthians 15:1-11 (Theme: Paul reminds us about the common ground we share in our faith. He also shows us that how we live our faith is as important as the message we get from the Scriptures themselves.)
John 20:1-18 (Theme: The discovery of the empty tomb is at the heart of our faith. It is at once the vindication of Jesus life and teaching and a promise to us of our own destiny in faith.)

Resource Corner

The video below tells the story of the resurrection.

Family Activity
We believe that because of the resurrection, Jesus remains with us in a new and different way. One way to understand this is my making empty tomb rolls.

There are many recipes out there, but the basic idea is that the dough rolled our to cover/ surround a large marshmallow. When the filled roll is based, the marshmallow seems to disappear, but the essence is there - it has been transformed into a part of the roll, just as Jesus is with us. We can extend this idea into our understanding of the Eucharist - and how we are changed and transformed by eating the bread of life - the Body of Christ.

If we are too busy on Easter Sunday with our extended family visits and celebrations, this activity is perfect for a weekday activity during the eight days following Easter - the Easter Octave.

Activities for Children

For kids in Grades 1, 2, and 3
Although the disciples are slow to recognize the significance of Jesus’ empty tomb, they come to realize that Christ is still with them. Help younger children understand that we feel joy at Easter because Jesus has given us the gift of salvation and the peace that comes in knowing we can be saved.

Materials Needed

none

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Ask: What is today? (Easter Sunday) Say: Yes, today we celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection! Ask: What is Jesus’ Resurrection? (when God raised Jesus from the dead on the third day after he died on the Cross) Say: We rejoice because through his Death, Resurrection, and Ascension into heaven, Jesus brings us the gift of salvation. In today’s Gospel, we’ll hear what happened when Jesus’ disciples went to his tomb three days after he died.
Read today’s Gospel, John 20:1–9.
Say: When Mary Magdalene went to Jesus’ tomb, she saw that the stone had been removed. She ran to get Peter and the beloved disciple. Ask: Did they find Jesus in the tomb? (No.) What did they find? (Jesus’ burial clothes and the cloth that covered his head rolled up in a different place). How do you think they might have felt? (Accept all reasonable answers, including confused and upset.)
Say: The disciples did not yet understand that Jesus had risen from the dead and left the tomb. In the days ahead, they will see the risen Christ, and he will give them the gift of peace. We can be peaceful knowing that Jesus has saved us from sin and is with us always.
Conclude in prayer together by praying today’s psalm, Psalm 118: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.”

For kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
During Lent we invited our young people to reflect upon and enter into the Paschal Mystery through their Lenten sacrifices of almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. Now we must invite the children to reflect and meditate on Jesus' Resurrection and the gift of eternal life that he gives to us.
Materials Needed

None

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Remind the group that last Sunday we heard and reflected upon the events of Jesus' passion and death on the cross. Ask: How do you think the disciples felt on the day of Jesus' death and during the days that followed? What do you think they were doing on these days? (gathering together to comfort one another, remembering Jesus' life and his importance to them)
Tell the group that today's Gospel reading is about what happened on the morning of the third day after Jesus' death. Invite one or two volunteers to read today's Gospel, John 20:1-9.
Say: Mary of Magdala found something unusual when she visited Jesus' tomb. What did she find? (The stone had been removed.) What did Mary do next? (She ran to tell Simon Peter and the disciple whom Jesus loved.)
Ask: If you were Mary of Magdala, Simon Peter, or the Beloved Disciple, what would you have thought when you found the stone removed and Jesus' tomb empty? (Accept all reasonable answers.) Say: Today's Gospel tells us that Mary of Magdala thought that someone had taken Jesus' body. The disciples did not yet understand that Jesus had been raised from the dead.
Say: During Lent we prepared ourselves to remember and celebrate Jesus' death and resurrection. During the season of Easter, the Church asks us to reflect and meditate upon Jesus' Resurrection and what it means for us as Jesus' disciples today. We can spend time during the Easter season thinking about Jesus' Resurrection and the gift of eternal life that he gives to us.
Conclude in prayer together by praying today's psalm, Psalm 118.

Facebook discussion group
Also available for parents is a special Facebook Group where parents can support one another, ask questions, offer advice, share ideas and insights as we work together to strengthen the faith of our children. For permission to participate in this discussion forum, please contact Mother Mary at youth@stlukeslebanon.org

The Second sunday Of Easter - April 24

This Sunday is often called "Thomas Sunday" because the gospel lesson focuses on Thomas, whose name means twin, stands alone in the gospel. Perhaps we are his twin, each of us standing in his shoes, asking to touch the wounds in which life became unsustainable, more inclined toward knowing the power that fascinates us, than the power that liberates us. Perhaps we need to focus less on Thomas' doubts and more on the fact that he believed.

Readings for this Sunday

The readings for The Second Sunday of Easter are:
(Click on the link for the text of each reading from this Sunday.)

Acts 4:32-35 (Theme: They were not of one heart and soul because they tried really hard. They did not sell their possessions because it was the right thing to do. Instead, everything they did was because of their belief in the resurrection.)
1 John 1:1-2:2 (Theme: We have for our advocate, someone who is not a mean person, but a person of whom it was said, "This is my beloved son." Not a guilty person, who stands in need of pardon for himself; but Jesus Christ himself the righteous one; not a mere petitioner, who relies upon the good graces of another, but someone that has "walked the talk.")
John 20:19-31 (Theme: Thomas comes to faith because he first has the chance to voice his doubt and questions and then experiences Jesus for himself.)

Resource Corner

IN this video, children tell and reflect on the story of Thomas from today's gospel lesson.

Here's the same story with a little different approach.

Peace Prayer
attributed to St. Francis (BCP p.810)

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.

Family Activity

Within normal family life, there are many opportunities for conflict. Jesus did not promise us the absence of conflict in our lives. Instead, he gave us the gifts of peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation so that we could reduce conflict. The measure of Christian family life is not the absence of conflict, but the manner in which conflict is resolved. Filled with the gift of the Holy Spirit, we ask Jesus to help us to bring peace and forgiveness to situations of conflict in our families.

As your family gathers, take this opportunity to examine how your family resolves conflict. Recall a recent argument or disagreement and discuss how the conflict was resolved. Consider whether the conflict was resolved peacefully, in the spirit of Jesus. If not, discuss alternatives that might be tried in the future.

Read together today’s Gospel, John 20:19-31. Recall that we have each received Jesus’ gift of the Holy Spirit and that the Holy Spirit helps us to be people who forgive others and seek peace. Pray together the Prayer to the Holy Spirit or the Peace Prayer of Saint Francis.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
And kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you will renew the face of the earth.

Lord,
by the light of the Holy Spirit
you have taught the hearts of your faithful.
In the same Spirit
help us to relish what is right
and always rejoice in your consolation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Godly Play Online!

Two friends were walking home from Jerusalem. They were puzzled about what happened to Jesus. A stranger walked and talked with them. When he stayed with them for supper, all of a sudden they knew who he was.

Putting faith into practice
(Use examples from everyday life to teach a vital truth about the faith. They don't need to be structured into a lesson plan but are part of how we live out our faith.)

Doubts. Doubts are in important part of learning in life. Asking questions is as important (and sometimes more so) than having an answer. It is through these kinds of doubts that science advances. Skepticism about the answers someone gives us can spur us on to discoveries that we never thought possible before. Doubts/questions about faith are an important step in deepening our knowledge and love of God.
Sharing. Sharing possessions becomes a mark of our personal generosity. It is a form of graciousness. We are taught from the time we a little to share what we have with our siblings and our friends. As we grow older, this kind of sharing can extend to more important things than toys or clothes.

Activities for Children

For kids in Grades 1, 2, and 3
Help younger children understand that the gift of peace and the gift of the Holy Spirit have been given to us. When we have these gifts, we can be people who forgive others as Jesus has taught us to do.
Materials Needed

None

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Cross your arms over your chest and gently place your hands on your upper arms. Speaking softly, invite children to do the same. Say: Let’s take a moment to settle in and be peaceful. Slowly breathe in and out a few times and notice that we are all being very quiet. If you like, you can close your eyes. Imagine that Jesus is sitting next to you. Allow a moment for children to be still.
Then say quietly: Let’s see if we can stay quiet and peaceful during our time together. Ask: When we are afraid or grumpy, is it hard or easy to be loving and forgiving? (It’s hard.) Say: After Jesus died, the disciples were afraid. They hid. The risen Jesus came to them. Let’s hear about the two gifts he gave the disciples to help them be loving and forgiving.
Read today’s Gospel, John 20:19–31.
Ask: What did Jesus say to the disciples when he first saw them? (“Peace be with you.”) Say: Jesus gave the disciples the gift of peace. Ask: What did Jesus say when he breathed on the disciples? (“Receive the holy Spirit.”) Say: Jesus gave the disciples a second gift—the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Say: The gift of peace and the gift of the Holy Spirit help us be Jesus’ loving and forgiving disciples.
Say: Let’s share Jesus’ gift of peace. We’ll stand up and slowly and prayerfully greet each other by saying, “Peace be with you.”
Conclude in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to help us be Jesus’ loving and forgiving disciples.

For kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
Some things just seem to go together. From this experience, we can help older children identify the gifts from Jesus given to us at Baptism that sustain us as his disciples: forgiveness of sins, the Holy Spirit, and peace.
Materials Needed

None

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Play the “What Am I Thinking” game. Name the first of a pair of items that we usually think about together and ask the students to complete the pairing. For example, Say: Peanut butter and [jelly]; pencil and [paper]; cheese and [crackers]; soap and [water]; socks and [shoes]. You might continue the game by asking volunteers to name the first of a pair and see if the group can name the second item.
Introduce today?s Gospel. Say: Jesus also paired together two important gifts when he greeted his disciples after his Resurrection. Listen carefully as we read today?s Gospel to identify the two gifts that Jesus gave to his disciples.
Invite one or more volunteers to read aloud today?s Gospel, John 20:19-31.
Ask: What gift is named is the greeting that Jesus spoke to his disciples after his Resurrection? (peace) What gift did Jesus them give to his disciples next? (the Holy Spirit) What did Jesus then send his disciples to do? (forgive sins)
Say: We have received the gift of the Holy Spirit in our Baptism. What also happened when we were baptized? (Our sins were forgiven.) The Holy Spirit, forgiveness of sins, and the gift of peace (which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit) are given to us. When we have these gifts, we can be people who forgive others as Jesus taught.
Conclude by praying together that we will allow the Holy Spirit to make us people who forgive others. Pray together the Prayer to the Holy Spirit.

THE Third SUNDAY OF EASTER - May 1

There are allusions in the gospel lesson to our gathering for the celebration of the Eucharist. In the Eucharist, we are fed by Jesus in the bread and wine that we believe to be his Body and Blood. The gifts we bring to the altar, bread and wine, are made from gifts that God gave first to us: grain and grapes, the fruit of the earth. God has no need of anything further. Yet God accepts the offering we bring—bread and wine, “the work of human hands,” and transforms our offering into the gift of his abiding presence among us.

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

The readings for The Third Sunday of Easter are:
(Click here for the texts of the readings for this Sunday.)

First Reading

Acts of the Apostles 5:27-32,40b-41

The apostles are brought before the Sanhedrin and ordered to stop speaking in Jesus' name.

Second Reading

Revelation 5:11-14

John describes his vision of the praises that will be sung to the Lamb by every creature on heaven and earth.

Gospel Reading

John 21:1-19

Jesus appears to the disciples for a third time after his Resurrection and shares a meal with them.

RESOURCE CORNER

Even the best Christians mess up, but Jesus is ready to forgive (and use them in His Service). This children’s message from John 21:1-19 teaches those lessons from Peter’s reinstatement.

This video is a film based telling of today's gospel lesson

Activities for Children

For kids in Grades 1, 2, and 3
Younger children have enjoyed special meals with their families. Lead them to see that God feeds us in many ways.
Materials Needed

photograph of a family meal celebrating a special event (a holiday or birthday)

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Show children the photograph and tell them what you were celebrating and what food you ate together. Invite children to tell you about a special meal, what event they were celebrating, and what foods they ate. Say: We share meals with family and friends to celebrate special events and enjoy one another’s company. Jesus shared meals with his disciples. After his Resurrection, he fed his disciples a meal. Let’s hear about the meal they shared together.
Read today’s Gospel, John 21:1–19.
Ask: What were the disciples doing when Jesus called to them? (fishing) Say: Jesus told them how to catch many fish. Ask: What food did Jesus feed the disciples? (fish and bread) How do you think the disciples felt to be able to have one more meal with Jesus? (Accept all reasonable answers, including happy and grateful.)
Say: Jesus fed his disciples, and he feeds us too. Bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus. Ask: When do we receive the Body and Blood of Jesus? (during the Eucharist, Holy Communion) Say: Jesus is truly present to us during the Eucharist.
Thank God for the many ways he feeds us in body and spirit. Pray together the Lord’s Prayer.

GODLY PLAY ONLINE!

The frightened disciples hid together in the room where they had their last meal with Jesus. Then Jesus appeared to them! But one of them was missing. Would he believe what they told him?

Family Activity

Today's Gospel describes what we can easily imagine as a picnic on the beach. Just as Jesus' miracle at the wedding feast at Cana blesses the love between man and woman celebrated in the sacrament of marriage, Jesus' attentiveness to food and mealtimes raises the possibility that our meal gatherings can be sacred times. In families, the domestic church, our meals together are everyday opportunities to gather and recall Jesus' presence with us. As in the Eucharist, we bring the gifts that God has given us, which have been prepared especially for our Mass, and at our family meals we share gifts that God has given to us and that we have worked together to prepare. This includes the food on the table and also the people who gather around the table. We ask God to bless these gifts and to be present among us in all of our interactions.

Consider a recent family meal: What food was served? Where did the food come from? Who prepared the food? Who served the food? Was mealtime a happy time? Why or why not? Observe that today's Gospel tells about a meal that Jesus shared with his disciples after his Resurrection. Read aloud today's Gospel, John 21:1-14. Reflect on the Gospel reading using the questions above. Talk about ways in which this meal that Jesus shared with his disciples might remind us of the meal we share at the Eucharist. You might choose to plan a special meal together as a family, encouraging each person to participate in the meal preparation. Pray together that Jesus will make his loving presence known in your family life. Pray together the Lord's Prayer.

For kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
Just as particular foods are associated with particular celebrations, bread and wine are integral to our celebration of the Eucharist. In the Eucharist, the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ.
Materials Needed

Pictures of a number of different celebrations that can be identified by the food served (birthday party, Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter dinner, wedding, and so on)

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Show pictures of a number of different celebrations that can be identified by the food served (birthday party, Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter dinner, wedding, and so on). Ask the children to identify the type of party shown. Have the children offer evidence from the picture to support their answer.
Say: We can often identify the celebration by the food that is shared. In the Gospels, we read about many meals that Jesus shared with his friends. In many cases, particular food is named.
Ask: What meals do you remember Jesus sharing with his friends? (the Last Supper, the feeding of the multitude) What were the foods that were shared at these meals? (bread, fish, wine)
Introduce today's Gospel. Say: This week's Gospel reading tells about another meal that Jesus shared with his friends. This meal was shared after Jesus' Resurrection. Let's listen to the story of this meal.
Invite one or more volunteers to read aloud today's Gospel, John 21:1-19.
Ask: What were the disciples doing when Jesus called to them? (fishing) What happened when Jesus told them to toss their nets on the right side of the boat? (They caught a large number of fish.) What do the disciples see on the fire when they bring in the fish they have caught? (fish and bread)
Say: That morning on the shore, Jesus fed his disciples. Jesus feeds us, too. What do we call the meal in which Jesus feeds us? (the Eucharist) What food do we find at this meal? (bread and wine that have become the Body and Blood of Christ)
Say: The Eucharist is the meal in which Jesus feeds us with his Body and Blood. When we eat the Body and Blood of Christ, we become one with Jesus. Jesus helps us grow in body, in soul, and in love.
Conclude by thanking Jesus for giving us the Eucharist. Conclude praying together the Lord's Prayer.

THE Fourth SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 8

Today's Gospel speaks powerfully about the familiarity and intimacy between Jesus and his disciples, expressed as recognizing and knowing another's voice. It also speaks to the relationship between Jesus and the Father. In the Gospel of John, Jesus identifies so closely with the Father that he tells us that they are one—not just close, but actually one. To know Jesus is to know the Father. Jesus doesn't just bring us closer to the Father, Jesus puts us directly into contact with God the Father, removing all distance between us. Our relationship with Jesus is an invitation to share in the life of God.

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

The readings for The Fourth Sunday of Easter are:
(Click here for the texts of the readings for this Sunday.)

First Reading

Acts of the Apostles 13:14,43-52

Paul and Barnabas preach the good news among the Gentiles and are expelled by the Jews.
Second Reading

Revelation 7:9-17

John describes his vision of the praises that the holy ones sing to the Lamb.
Gospel Reading

John 10:27-30

Jesus describes his care for his sheep.

GODLY PLAY ONLINE!

The disciples decide to go fishing, but they don't catch anything. Then a stranger on the edge of the lake calls out and tells them what to do now. Who can it be? And what a surprise they get!

RESOURCE CORNER

This world is confusing - kids need to learn who they can trust. This message from John 10:22-30 will help them listen for the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Watch the video teaching below.

Here is a telling of the story of the Good Shepherd.

Family Activity

Not only can we recognize family members' voices, we can also read the tone of their voices and know something about how they are feeling. In our relationship with Jesus, we know Jesus' voice and are called to follow. Jesus doesn't just bring us closer to the Father, Jesus puts us directly into contact with God the Father, removing all distance between us. In the Gospel of John, Jesus identifies so closely with the Father that he tells us that they are one—not just close, but actually one. Knowing Jesus means knowing the Father.

Read with your family today's Gospel, John 10:27-30.

Ask your family members to talk about some ways that Jesus brings them closer to God and closer to one another. Pray together the Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love.

Act of Faith
O my God, I firmly believe that you are one God in three divine Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I believe that your divine Son became man and died for our sins, and that he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe these and all that the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church teaches, because you have revealed them to us, and you can neither deceive nor be deceived.
Amen.

Act of Hope
O my God, relying on your infinite mercy and promises, I hope to obtain forgiveness of my sins, the help of your grace, and life everlasting, through Jesus Christ, my Lord and Redeemer.
Amen.

Act of Love
O my God, I love you above all things with my whole heart and soul, because you are all good and worthy of all my love. I love my neighbor as myself for the love of you. I forgive all who have injured me and I ask pardon of those whom I have injured.
Amen.

Activities for Children

for kids in Grades 1, 2, and 3
Help younger children understand our relationship with Jesus by teaching them that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, who loves, knows, and guides us, his sheep. He shows us the way to eternal life with God.
Materials Needed

Picture of a shepherd and sheep, or if possible, a video clip of a farmer herding sheep

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Show the picture or video clip. Ask: Does anyone know what a shepherd is? (Someone who cares for a flock of sheep.) Say: A shepherd guides sheep so that they don’t get lost. He protects them from danger.
Say: Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He loves us and guides us, just as shepherd guides and cares for his sheep. Let’s hear Jesus the Good Shepherd talk about his sheep in today’s Gospel.
Read today’s Gospel, John 10:27–30.
Say: We are the sheep that Jesus is talking about. Jesus loves us. He knows everything about us and is always with us. He shows how to be closer to God and gives us eternal life in heaven.
Pray together, Jesus, Good Shepherd, you love us and guide us. You show us how to be closer to God. We will follow you to the Father. Amen.

for kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
Older children use their lived experience to learn about the divine. In their capacity to know one another well we can invite them to consider the relationship between Jesus and those of us who are his followers.
Materials Needed

None

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Play this guessing game. Ask the children to put their heads down on their desk, eyes covered. When all eyes are covered, choose one volunteer to speak aloud. Ask the rest of the group to guess the name of the speaker. Play the game several times so a number of voices are identified.
Say: Was it easy or difficult to identify the voices you heard? We have to know a person pretty well to be able to recognize her voice without seeing her.
Say: This is what Jesus describes in today's Gospel, his close relationship with his followers. Let's listen carefully to this Gospel.
Invite one or more volunteers to read aloud today's Gospel, John 10:27-30.
Ask: How does Jesus describe the relationship he has with his sheep? (The sheep hear Jesus' voice and follow him; Jesus knows his sheep.) What does Jesus do for his sheep? (He protects them, and he gives them eternal life.) How does Jesus describe his relationship with the Father? (They are one.)
Say: We are Jesus' followers; we are the sheep he is talking about in today's Gospel. Jesus knows us as well as our family and our best friends. When we share eternal life, we will be closer to God as well. We will see God as he is and share fully in the life of God.
Pray together that you will all one day share fully in the life of God. Pray together the Act of Hope (see above).

THE Fifth SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 15

The Gospel does not present a sentimental view of love. This is a type of love that is shown in service and sacrifice. It is difficult to choose to love when faced with hatred and anger. Jesus tells the disciples that all will know that they are his disciples because of the love they show for one another. This is how others described the early Christian community: “See how they love one another.” Christian love is the hallmark of Christianity. We see it lived in the witness of the martyrs. We see it in the example of the lives of the saints. We see it in the holy women and men who live and love daily in our own time, making small and large sacrifices for others.

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

The readings for The Fifth Sunday of Easter are:
(Click here for the texts of the readings for this Sunday.)

First Reading

Acts of the Apostles 14:21-27

Paul and Barnabas proclaim the good news in many places.
Second Reading

Revelation 21:1-5a

John describes his vision of a new heaven and a new earth.
Gospel Reading

John 13:31-33a,34-35

Jesus gives his disciples a new commandment: love one another.

GODLY PLAY ONLINE!

In this Godly Paly - Online! video lesson, Jesus tells the disciples to meet him on a mountain. He has a special message for them about the work they will soon be doing.

RESOURCE CORNER

Here is a "movie version" of today's gospel lesson.

Try this very different "take" on Jesus' command to love!

Family Activity

Is love the first word your family members use to describe their interactions? Love is difficult. Jesus' sacrifice for us is an example of this. Yet because of love, the glory of God is fully revealed in Jesus. God's glory is revealed in us when we act as the Body of Christ, as individuals and as a community. In the love we have for one another—difficult, challenging, sacrificial love—we find Jesus.
Choose one or two occasions when your family was together during the week. Describe the family's interactions from an outsider's perspective. When is it less difficult to show love to family members? When is it more difficult? When love is difficult, what do we do?
Jesus didn't just tell us to love one another. He showed us how to love one another. In what ways did Jesus show us how to love? (in his acts of healing and forgiving; at the Last Supper as he washed his disciples' feet; in the gift of the Eucharist; through his death on the Cross)

Activities for Children

For kids in Grades 1,2, and 3
Help younger children to understand that when Jesus calls us to love others as he loves us, he is calling us to express our love in our words and actions.
Materials Needed

a hat or basket; pictures of children found in magazines or online; on each picture, write a statement of need to which children can respond, such as, “I am Min. I forgot my snack,” “I am Maggie. I feel sad,” “I am Kate. I broke my favorite toy,” and “I am Miguel. My dog ran away.” Fold the pictures and put them in the hat or basket.

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Show children the hat or basket, and pair older children with younger ones. Say: Let’s play a game. I’ll pass around the hat [basket], and you or your partner will choose a piece of paper out of it. Take a few moments to read the words and come up with ways you will help the child. Then, come up and show us your picture. Read aloud the words and tell us what you might say and do. After each pair’s turn, invite children to think of other words or actions that might be loving and helpful.
Say: All the words and actions you thought of as you played the games are ways we can show love. Ask: If we just felt love and didn’t do or say anything, would we be much help to the children? (No.) Say: When Jesus calls us to love, we are to show love through what we say and what we do. Let’s listen to today’s Gospel and hear what Jesus tells his disciples.
Read today’s Gospel, John 13:31–33a,34–35.
Say: What is Jesus’ new commandment? (“Love one another. As I have loved you, so you should also love one another.”) Say: We show we are Jesus’ disciples by loving one another. Jesus showed his love for us by dying on the Cross to save us from our sins. Loving like Jesus means being loving in our words and our actions, even when it might be hard.
Pray the Act of Love, inviting children to pray silently if they don’t know the prayer by heart.

For kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
Children learn by example. Jesus not only talked about love, he gave us his life as an example to show us how to love.
Materials Needed

Origami cup
Water
Several pieces of square paper

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Show an origami cup and pour water into the cup to demonstrate that it can actually hold water. Then show a piece of square paper. Ask: Which would be easier: to tell you how to make this cup or to show you how? (to show)
Then show the children how to make an origami cup, demonstrating and helping them as you give the directions. Tell them to fold a square sheet of paper in half to form a triangle. Have them place the triangles on their desks with the fold facing them. Tell them to bring the left and right points of the triangle to the middle of the opposite sides and crease them. This will produce a five-sided figure with the bottom being shorter in length than the sides. Fold the top points down on the front and back to form the cup. Squeeze the sides of the figure to open the cup.
Say: Now that you know how to make a cup, maybe someday you'll be able to teach someone else and perhaps make one for a small child who doesn't know how to sip water from a drinking fountain. If I had only told you how to make a cup and hadn't shown you how, it would have been difficult for you to learn.
Say: That's why Jesus didn't just tell us how to love, he showed us. The Gospel this week tells us that before Jesus died, he told his friends to love one another the way he had shown them how to love. He had just washed his disciples' feet at the Last Supper. This is what Jesus said.
Invite one or more volunteers to read aloud today's Gospel, John 13:31-33a,34-35.
Ask: How had Jesus shown love to his disciples? (He washed their feet.) How did Jesus say that people would recognize his disciples? (by their love for one another) What did Jesus do after this Last Supper to show love? (He died on the cross.)
Say: When you followed the example and directions I gave, you were able to make a cup. When you follow Jesus' example and words, you become a disciple and are able to make a different, more loving world.
Pray together the Act of Love.

THE Sixth SUNDAY OF EASTER - May 22

Jesus prepares his disciples in advance for his absence so that they will continue to believe in him and not feel all alone after his return to the Father. After the initial excitement of his Easter appearances, Jesus will remain with his followers in a very different way throughout the centuries.

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

The readings for The Sixth Sunday of Easter are:
(Click here for the texts of the readings for this Sunday.)

First Reading

Acts of the Apostles 15:1-2,22-29

The early Church community determines, with the help of the Holy Spirit, not to impose the requirement of circumcision on Gentile Christians.
Second Reading

Revelation 21:10-14,22-23

The vision of the splendor of the heavenly Jerusalem is described.
Gospel Reading

John 14:23-29

Jesus promises his disciples that the Father will send the Advocate, the Holy Spirit.

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Jesus meets the disciples in Jerusalem one last time. Then he led them outside the city where he left them in a most interesting way. And now they will wait for the Holy Spirit to come. Explore the meaning of this lesson in Godly Play Online!

RESOURCE CORNER

The video below tells the story that is part of the first lesson appointed for today's worship

The book of Acts is full of amazing stories featuring people who heard the Gospel of Christ and acted on it immediately. One of these early followers was Lydia, who Paul met in Philippi. These crafts celebrate Lydia, who sold purple cloth. A decorative “clothesline” combines hand-dyed items with cut fabric or paper to remember who Lydia was. . . . Break out the purple and have fun!

Family Activity

Parents are always helping their children prepare for something, whether that consists of getting ready for school, preparing for an exam, or making preparations to go on vacation. In today's Gospel, Jesus prepares his disciples for his Passion, death, and Resurrection. He promises his Holy Spirit, gives them the gift of his peace, and tells them not to be troubled.
As a family, talk about the kinds of events that you have prepared for together; surgeries, funerals, vacations, and first days of school are some examples. Talk about why it is important to prepare for important events in our lives. Then read aloud this Sunday's Gospel: John 14:23-29. Talk about how Jesus prepared his disciples for his Death and Resurrection and how he wanted them to be prepared for what would happen so that they would be able to believe.
Talk about how, as a family, you can prepare for Pentecost (only 2 weeks away), when we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit, our Advocate.

Activities for Children

For kids in Grades 1, 2, and 3
Jesus promised he would send the Holy Spirit to be our Advocate. Explain to younger children that the Holy Spirit, who comes to us in Baptism and fills us with God’s life, helps and guides us.
Materials Needed

none

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Ask: When we need help with something or we don’t know how to do something, what can we do? (Accept all reasonable answers, including ask someone for help.)
Ask: Whom do you think the Apostles asked when they needed help or wanted to learn about God? (Jesus) How do you think they felt when they learned Jesus was going to die on the Cross? (Accept all reasonable answers, including afraid and worried.) Say: Today we’ll hear what Jesus told his disciples before he died.
Read today’s Gospel, John 14:23-29.
Say: Jesus tells his disciples that he is going to be with God the Father in heaven. Ask: Whom will Jesus send to guide and teach the disciples? (the Holy Spirit)
Say: The Holy Spirit comes to us when we are baptized. He fills us with God’s life. When we need help and guidance, we can pray to the Holy Spirit.
Pray together a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to help and guide you. (See below for a sample prayer to the Holy Spirit.)

For kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
When touring a place of interest that we are not familiar with, it is helpful to have a guide who can help us to get the most out of our tour. Jesus gives us his Holy Spirit to help us and guide us during our journey of life.
Materials Needed

None

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Ask if any of the children have gone on a trip that included a tour guide (for example: to a museum, a national park, or a foreign country). Invite volunteers to share their experiences.
Ask: Why is it helpful to have a tour guide? (to help us understand what we are seeing and to guide us along the way)
Say: Jesus knew that we are in need of guidance in our lives, so he promised to send his Holy Spirit.
Invite one or more volunteers to read aloud today's Gospel, John 14:23-29.
Ask: What title does Jesus use when referring to his Holy Spirit? (Advocate)
Explain that an advocate is a helper. Say: Jesus gives us his Holy Spirit to be our advocate—our guide—so that we do not get lost on our journey to heaven.
Tell the children that we can benefit from the guidance of the Holy Spirit through prayer. Encourage them to pray often to the Holy Spirit for help and guidance.
Conclude by praying together the Prayer to the Holy Spirit.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
And kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you will renew the face of the earth.

Lord,
by the light of the Holy Spirit
you have taught the hearts of your faithful.
In the same Spirit
help us to relish what is right
and always rejoice in your consolation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

THE SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 29

Those who believe in Jesus will be empowered to do what Jesus himself has done. During his ministry, Jesus sent his disciples out to preach, to heal, and to drive out unclean spirits. Now, they are sent again to do these things and more. From his place with God in heaven, Jesus helped his disciples, and he continues to help us as we try to live as his followers.

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

In many places, the readings on this Sunday are the reading's from the Feast of the Ascension. We provide the readings from the Ascension here so that our children and their parents have an opportunity to reflect on this important event in the life of Jesus and the disciples. Click here for the texts.

First Reading

Acts of the Apostles 1:1-11

Jesus is taken up to heaven in the presence of the Apostles.

Second Reading

Ephesians 1:17-23

God raised Jesus from the dead and seated him at his right hand.
Gospel Reading

Luke 24:46-53

Jesus is taken to heaven and the disciples remain in Jerusalem awaiting his sending of the Spirit.

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The disciples did not have to wait any longer. The Holy Spirit came to them in a surprising way. They began to tell everyone about Jesus and many people were baptized and joined them.

RESOURCE CORNER

Jesus ascends into heaven and tells the disciples to baptize all nations in His Name.

Ascension! A fun reflection for kids based on the readings for the Ascension of Our Lord.

Activities for Families

Any family that has tried to sit down to a family dinner or packed the car for a trip has heard children argue at least once about who should sit where. To sit next to someone, especially if that person is important, is to have a place of honor. Jesus has this place of honor, seated now at the right hand of the Father (as we say in the Nicene Creed and the Apostles' Creed), but there's more to this metaphor than where Jesus sits in relation to God. To be in the place of honor is also to be in a place of power. Knowing people in powerful places can be very helpful. Children remind us of this each time we are called upon to referee a conflict. Jesus, honored now at God's right hand, is a powerful ally for us.

As you gather as a family, recall a time when there was a discussion, or perhaps even an argument, about where people were going to sit. Talk about why it might be important to a person to sit in a particular place. Mention that in this Sunday's Gospel we learn about Jesus' place in heaven. Read together Luke 24:46-53.

Talk about how in the Creed we describe Jesus' place in heaven as “seated at the right hand of the Father.” Discuss what we might learn about the relationship between God and Jesus from today's Gospel and from the Creed and what we can learn about Jesus' relationship to us. Observe that one of the things we learn is that Jesus continues to help us from this place of honor in heaven. Pray together the Apostles' Creed.

Activities for Children

For kids in Grades 1, 2, and 3
Disciples throughout the centuries have followed Jesus’ instruction to preach his Gospel to all nations. We can lead younger children to understand that their own knowledge of Jesus’ life and teachings is a result of the disciples’ faithful commitment to continue Jesus’ mission.

Materials Needed

none

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Invite children to name or briefly describe an event that happened before they were born. Say: We learn about these events because the people who were there remembered them and talked about them. Jesus’ ministry, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension happened many years ago. Ask: How do we know about them? (We read about them in the Bible; we hear about them at Mass; our parents, priests, or teachers tell us about them.)
Say: Today we celebrate the Ascension of the Lord, the day when Jesus was raised up to heaven by God. Let’s listen carefully to hear what Jesus asked of his disciples before he was taken up to heaven.
Read today’s Gospel, Luke 24:46–53.
Say: Before Jesus ascended into heaven to be with God the Father, he gave the disciples important instructions. They were to tell people all over the world about Jesus’ life, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension. They were to preach repentance—or turning our hearts away from sin and back to God—and forgiveness of sins.
Say: Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ followers have followed these instructions for all this time. Ask: Who are some people who have taught you about Jesus? (Accept all reasonable answers.) Say: Let’s pray for all those who share God’s Word as Jesus taught us to do.
Conclude by praying that God watch over all those who share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.

For kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
The Ascension of Jesus marks the definitive entrance of Jesus' humanity into God's presence, where he sits at God's right hand. From there he will come to judge us all at the end of time.

Materials Needed

None

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Ask the young people to think about a time when they called upon another person who they believed had more knowledge and/or power to help them. Perhaps they have asked a parent to help resolve a conflict with a sibling or asked a teacher for help to resolve a classroom matter.
Say: As we mature, we are able to do many more things on our own. But each of us, every now and then, requires a little extra assistance from someone who has more knowledge and power than we have. In some ways, we can think about the assistance that we receive from Jesus in this way. This is one of the things we remember as we celebrate the Feast of the Ascension.
Say: In this Sunday's Gospel, we hear the instructions that Jesus gave to his disciples before he was taken up to heaven. Let's listen carefully to this Gospel. Invite one or more volunteers to read Luke 24:46-53.
Ask: What instructions does Jesus give to his disciples? (Preach repentance for the forgiveness of sins to all nations, be witnesses, and remain in the city until they are clothed with power from on high.)
Ask: What do you think Jesus was talking about when he told the disciples that they would be clothed with power from on high? (They will be filled with the Holy Spirit.) Say: Forty days after his Resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven. We certainly have a very powerful ally in Jesus. If we ask him, he will help us to follow his example.
Conclude by praying that we will remember to call upon Jesus to help us as we try to follow his example. Pray together the Apostles' Creed.

PENTECOST SUNDAY - jUNE 5

The season of Easter concludes with today's celebration, the feast of Pentecost. On Pentecost we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit sent upon the Apostles as they gathered in the upper room in Jerusalem. This event marks the beginning of the Church as the People of God, the Body of Christ. The story of Pentecost is found in the opening chapters of the Acts of the Apostles (written by the evangelist Luke). The account in today's Gospel, taken from the Gospel of John, recounts how Jesus gave the gift of the Holy Spirit to his disciples in a way distinct from how the evangelist Luke portrays it. There is no need to try to reconcile these two accounts to each other. What is important for us is that, after his death, Jesus fulfilled his promise to send to his disciples a helper, an advocate, who would enable them to be his witnesses throughout the world.

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

The readings for Pentecost Sunday are:
(Click here for the texts of the readings for this Sunday.)

First Reading

Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11

The Holy Spirit descends upon the Apostles gathered in Jerusalem.

Second Reading

Romans 8:8-17

We are all one in Christ Jesus.

Gospel Reading

John 14:8-17, (25-27)

Jesus promises the gift of the Holy Spirit at the Last Supper.

GODLY PLAY ONLINE!

The disciples are waiting for the Holy Spirit, just as Jesus told them to. They are so surprised when the Spirit comes, and so energized, too!

RESOURCE CORNER

Watch the video below for the story of Pentecost as we hear it from the Acts of the Apostles.

The Feast of Pentecost celebrates what happened in Jerusalem 50 days after the resurrection of Jesus at Easter. This video tells you what happened. With LEGO!

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
And kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you will renew the face of the earth.

Lord,
by the light of the Holy Spirit
you have taught the hearts of your faithful.
In the same Spirit
help us to relish what is right
and always rejoice in your consolation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Activities for Families

Pentecost is sometimes called the birthday of the Church. The Gospel for Pentecost reminds us that the Church begins with the command to forgive. Within the family, the domestic Church, we learn how to forgive and we learn to accept forgiveness. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit that enables us to do both. Today is a fitting time to share a family celebration of reconciliation.
As you gather together as a family, sit quietly for a few minutes, inviting all to reflect upon their need to forgive and to receive forgiveness. If there is a situation or issue within the family that needs attention, spend some time reflecting upon the concern and how your family might address it.

Read together today's Gospel, John 20:19-23. Talk together about how Jesus gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us in the work of forgiveness and to bring us peace. Pray together The Prayer to the Holy Spirit (see above), asking that the Holy Spirit help your family. Share with one another the sign of peace.

Activities for Children

For kids in Grades 1, 2, and 3
Younger children are learning how to be a good friend to others. As Christians, we are called to be agents of peace and forgiveness. We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us.

Materials Needed

Hearts of different sizes, cut out of various colors of posterboard or paper; tape
On each heart, write an action we can take to be a peacemaker, such as forgive, say sorry, welcome, be kind, understand. Cut the hearts in half for children to match.

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Give half a heart to each child. Have children walk around to find the child who has the other half. Help children tape the halves together. Say: As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers. We can be peacemakers by taking care of relationships, just as we took care of the hearts by putting them back together.
Say: On each heart is written a way we can be peacemakers with our friends and family. Take turns telling us what your heart says. (Help younger children as needed.) Discuss how each action helps make a relationship more peaceful.
Say: The risen Jesus greeted his disciples with words of peace. Let’s listen.
Read today’s Gospel, John 20:19–23.
Ask: What words of peace did Jesus use to greet the disciples? (“Peace be with you.”) Say: Jesus gave the disciples the gift of the Holy Spirit to help them spread his message of peace and forgiveness. We can pray to the Holy Spirit to help and guide us. Let’s do that now.
Pray to the Holy Spirit that we will be peacemakers in all our relationships.

For kids in Grades 4, 5, and 6
Young people are aware of, sensitive to, and sometimes even a part of situations of conflict. As we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, our Gospel reminds us that this same Holy Spirit helps us to be agents of God's peace and forgiveness in the world.
Materials Needed

None

Preparation for Sunday Scripture Readings

Ask the group to name some situations in which greater peace is needed. These situations could be world or national current events, historical events, or things from school or family life.
Invite the group to choose one of the situations named. For this situation, help the group to identify some of the issues involved in this conflict. Ask questions such as, Why is peace lacking in this situation? What are some of the issues being contested? What would it take to restore peace in this situation?
Say: When Jesus appeared to his disciples after his Resurrection from the dead, his first words to them were a greeting of peace. This was welcome news to the disciples. Let's listen to today's Gospel to find out why this was such welcome news to the disciples.
Invite one or more volunteers to read today's Gospel, John 14:8-17, (25-27).
Ask: Why might Jesus' greeting of peace have been so welcome to his disciples? (They were gathered in the upper room in fear; they had witnessed Jesus' death on the Cross). Say: As witnesses to Jesus' death, Jesus' disciples had been very much a part of a situation of conflict. They gathered together in fear, perhaps because they thought that some people would seek their deaths as well. They very much needed to hear Jesus' words of peace and reassurance.
Say: The Feast of Pentecost celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus' first disciples. This same Holy Spirit is still with us. After breathing upon them and giving them the gift of the Holy Spirit, what does Jesus tell his disciples to do? (to forgive sins)
Say: Just as Jesus sent his disciples to forgive the sins of others, so too we are sent to bring peace to the world. We also have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us with this task.
Say: Looking back at the situation of conflict we talked about at the beginning, what might the Holy Spirit lead us to do to help bring peace to this situation of conflict? (Accept all reasonable answers. If appropriate, make a choice to do one of these actions as a group.)
Conclude by praying together that the Holy Spirit will continue to work through us to bring peace to the world. Pray together today's psalm, or The Prayer to the Holy Spirit (see above).

The Day of the Lord's Resurrection - Easter Sunday - April 17

Readings for this Sunday

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The Second sunday Of Easter - April 24

Readings for this Sunday

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THE Third SUNDAY OF EASTER - May 1

​READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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​THE Fourth SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 8

​​READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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​THE Fifth SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 15

​​​READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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THE Sixth SUNDAY OF EASTER - May 22

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THE SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 29

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PENTECOST SUNDAY - jUNE 5

​​​​​READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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THE Fourth SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 8

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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THE Fifth SUNDAY OF EASTER - MAY 15

READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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READINGS FOR THIS SUNDAY

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