Intermediate Session
Acts 6:1-7
John 14:1-12

Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Faithful God, you sent us your Son Jesus to show us the way.
Help us to live as followers of Jesus.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is our baptismal call to love and serve the Lord. To begin, draw two lines to represent a road that leads the way to God’s House on a chalkboard or large sheet of paper. Invite the children to brainstorm what leads them to God. Write down their responses on the chalkboard or paper next to the road. Discuss:
• Who helps you find your way to God?
• How does Jesus show the way to the Father?
• Who is welcome in God’s House?

Allow time for discussion. Jesus shows us the way to God. All are welcome in God’s House.

Listen to the Word of God
In the first reading from Acts of the Apostles, listen to how the disciples go out to serve others.

Read Acts 6:1-7.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters
• Why do the twelve disciples gather the whole community together?
• How are they given strength to serve others?
• How do the disciples increase in number?

In the gospel today, listen to Jesus tell his followers that he is the way, the truth, and the life.

Read John 14:1-12.
Allow for silence.

• Why are Jesus’ followers troubled?
• How does Jesus comfort his friends?
• How does Jesus show the way to God?
• What does Jesus tell the others about his Father’s house?

Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings using the Catechist Background section.

Today’s first reading from Acts describes the spread of the gospel from Jerusalem to Samaria and beyond. As the number of Christians grows, the disciples experience tension between the ministries of spreading the word and helping those in need. The twelve disciples gather the community together to help resolve the conflict. They come up with a solution that supports both ministries. The apostles lay hands on those who are chosen for service. The Church has come to understand today’s passage as pointing to ordained ministry, where service to the community is empowered by the laying on of hands.

In today’s gospel Jesus reassures his followers that they will not be left alone. The disciples are troubled and they want to know where Jesus is going. Jesus consoles his friends, telling them that they have a place in his Father’s house. In this gospel, the departure of Jesus is not seen as a loss. Jesus will return and take his followers with him. There will be room enough for everyone in God’s eternal presence.

This gospel passage provides encouragement for the disciples, and it makes the point that all believers are called to take action and continue the work of Jesus in the world.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• Why did the apostles lay hands on those chosen for service?
• Who are the people you know who serve others in the community?
• How can believers continue the work of Jesus in the world?

[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Sacrament of Holy Orders and the Common Priesthood of the Baptized
Jesus Christ is the one high priest, and his ministry is accomplished as a servant. Jesus was sent by the Father to serve the needs of the world and to bring about our salvation.

Jesus is with us always. He sends the Holy Spirit upon all members of the Church. All the faithful are made holy by baptism. By our baptism we share in the priesthood of Jesus Christ. We are called and empowered to continue the work of Jesus in the world.

The ordained priesthood exists to assist and serve the full flowering of the baptismal call of all. The center and high point of the ministerial priesthood is the celebration of the Eucharist.

• What kind of a leader was Jesus?
• How does your baptism help you to follow the example of Jesus and serve others?
• How does ordained priesthood serve the community?

The Gospel in Life
How can your words and actions bring God’s love to others this week?

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 27
Grade 4, page 275 parish and page 379 school and chapter 16
Grade 5, page 275 parish and page 379 school and chapter 17
Grade 6, page 275 parish and page 379 school and chapter 18

Connecting to Faith First® Original Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 27
Grade 4, page 314 and chapter 16
Grade 5, page 314 and chapter 17
Grade 6, page 314 and chapter 18