Things to talk about:

• What are the two everyday objects Jesus uses to teach us something about God’s Kingdom and our place in it? Discuss why Jesus chose these two objects. How can we be like salt? Our light is our talents, how do you recognize or know your talents? How can you use your light to help others?
• What modern symbols might Jesus use today to tell us what is expected of us as Christians?
• Describe a time that you shared what you know about Jesus with others.
• Who have been “salt” and “light” in your life?

Things to do:

• After Mass, light a candle in the Chapel and offer a silent prayer for someone who needs the light of Jesus.
• In church, candles symbolize Jesus, who is the light of the world! Count how many candles are lit in church.
• Each morning this week, pray “Shine Brightly” and be intentional about sharing God’s Word and Love to people you encounter.
• Food pantries have supplies for those who need it—basic staples such as rice, pasta, beans and cans of soup. Consider “spicing” things up by donating different seasoning. Sea salt, black pepper, garlic, onion, red pepper, basil…. Add some new flavor to the typical donations the pantries receive.
   
   

Closing Prayer

Pray with the words to this song.

Name those who need our prayers. Close with the Sign of the Cross.

Catholic Insight

Salt and light, bread and wine. Jesus uses these common items to teach great truths. These objects remind us of who we are asked to be and become.  You are the light too! Be a good example to all you encounter. Shine Brightly!

Christians have a responsibility to the whole world. We are to tell the whole world about the reign of God so that they may be saved and renewed in Jesus Christ. We should be like salt, enhancing flavor and preserving the life of food: to bring the meaning of life to all. We are to be light by letting our lives and service show the love, healing, forgiveness and compassion that our faith compels us to live to glorify God before all. Some of the activities that this commitment leads us to living the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. When we feed the hungry, clothe the naked, console those who mourn… we are being the salt of the earth and the light of the world. When we respond as a community of faith, the Church, we are “a city set on a mountain” that cannot be hidden.

Additional key concepts for this week:

Disciples of Jesus – A disciple is a learner, pupil, or student. (Gk. mathētēs, from the verb manthanein, “to learn”). In Catholicism, all apostles are disciples, but not all disciples are apostles. “Apostle” means “messenger” or “one who is sent”.

The word “disciples” is used 233 times in the Gospels for Jesus’ followers. As disciples we pray, study and receive the sacraments to continue to learn more about Jesus. We share what we know and invite them into a life of discipleship too.

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Resources adapted from 52Sundays.com, Celebrating the Lectionary, At Home with the Word, Celebrating Families, Sunday Connection