Our Great Journey
The theme is “Children of God” based on Mark 9:30-37 / Marcos 9:30-37
All pray the Sign of the Cross
Help us to live our Baptism to the fullest and to find ways to do what Jesus did: to bring joy, to help those who are suffering and to tell other people about Jesus. We ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen.
In addition to our prayers from the heart, our prayer for September is the Hail Mary. Please pray this prayer daily to learn it..
Using the Bible, invite a family member to read the Gospel aloud.
Things to talk about:
- Think of some examples of people you consider important. Who are they? What qualities do they have?
- Why was it hard for the disciples to grasp the idea that Jesus would be killed?
- What does Jesus mean when he says, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all”?
- Share a time when you have welcomed someone “in Jesus’ name,” that is, for the sake of Jesus.
Things to do:
- Ancient Appetizers – Serve food that your family’s favorite Bible heroes ate. Make a first century Palestine “charcuterie” board by creating a plate of appetizers that includes rustic loaves of bread or crackers, including those made with ancient grains, such as spelt or millet. Finger foods include dried fruits such as figs, dates or apricots, and sliced olives. Ensure that pits are fully removed for the safety of small teeth. Add some hummus and pita bread and enjoy!
- Jesus defines discipleship by using the example of a child. Focus on helping an organization that helps single moms or bringing kid friendly food to the St. Vincent de Paul Pantry. (baby food, cereal, diapers…)
- Download this word find to review words used in this Gospel and have some fun!
- Celebrate the Feast of St Vincent de Paul on September 27. Bring some items to the food pantry at Church (you can leave donations on the cart in the Church foyer). In his honor, make Poor Man’s Caviar.
Closing Prayer
Listen to the Song of the Cross. Reflect on the lyrics what Jesus’ death and resurrections mean to you.
Name those who need our prayers. Pray the Hail Mary.
Catholic Insights
In this Gospel, we again hear Jesus’ prediction about his passion, death and Resurrection. The disciples did not understand what Jesus was talking about and were afraid to ask for clarification. Such hesitation is not characteristic of their behavior with Jesus.
Upon entering a house in Capernaum, Jesus asks his disciples about the argument they were having. Again, they are uncharacteristically quiet and afraid to answer. Jesus then teaches that those who would be first in God’s kingdom must be servants of all.
Jesus calls forward a child and teaches the Apostles that to receive a child in Jesus’ name is to receive both Jesus and the Father. This was huge! In first-century Palestine, children had no status or power, no legal rights. Jesus is teaching us that when we serve the least among us, we serve Jesus himself.
Who are the people without power or status in our society that Jesus is calling us to serve? Jesus teaches that God’s judgment will be based on this criterion alone.
Did you know?….. Sts. Louis and Zelle Martin are the first married couple to be canonized together. They were serious about offering their children to God and they raised a saint and Doctor of the Church, St. Therese!
Resources adapted from 52Sundays.com, Celebrating the Lectionary, At Home with the Word, Celebrating Families, Sunday Connection
Subscribe to our Blog
Upon subscribing, you will be sent a confirmation email - click the link in the email to complete sign-up.
← Back to Blog Archives