Junior High Session
Daniel 7:13-14
John 18:33-37

Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Jesus, Lord of all,
everyone is welcome in your kingdom and your love is everlasting.
Help us to rely on your power when we are in need.
We pray in your name. Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The image for the session today is that of king. People in the United States do not have much experience with kingship. And the role of king has changed in recent history. Therefore the young people may need direction in order to reflect on the qualities of kingship that are the focus of today’s session. To begin ask the young people what the image of king means to them. Discus:
• What do you think are the qualities and characteristics of a good king?
• Today we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King. What does the image of Christ as king mean to you?

What we celebrate on the Feast of Christ the King, is that in the kingdom of God, Christ’s complete love and care for us has absolute power.

Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading glory is given to a king of all. Listen to the creation of an everlasting kingship.

Read Daniel 7:13-14.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters
• Who is presented before God?
• What does God give?
• What qualities of kingship are described?

In the gospel reading listen to Jesus tell us about the kingdom of God.

Read John 18:33-37.
Allow for silence.

• What does Pilate ask Jesus?
• How does Jesus answer?
• According to Jesus, why was he born into this world?
• Where does Jesus say he rules?

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

The Old Testament reading today in a prophetic reference to Christ stresses the everlasting dominion of Christ. All glory and kingship is given to him so that all people, nations and languages will serve him. The kingship of Christ will never be destroyed.

In the gospel reading when Pilate asks Jesus if he is “King of the Jews,” Jesus answers, “My kingdom does not belong to this world.” This confuses Pilate who is trying to find out the truth. Then, Jesus reveals the real truth, that his origin is divine. This reading has great significance because it testifies to the true identity and mission of Jesus.

Jesus has absolute power in the kingdom of God. This is good news because as we grow and become more independent, it is important to accept that we can’t do everything on our own. Sometimes we need help. Today’s gospel makes clear that Jesus is always there for us. We can count on the power of Christ’s love. And the gospel reading also speaks to the truth that in the kingdom of God, Christ is ruler of all.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• Name some people you think are good leaders.
• What kind of a ruler is Jesus?
• How can you rely on the power of Christ?

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

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Christ the King
The Church celebrates the feast of Christ the King on this last Sunday of the liturgical year. It is a feast that celebrates an aspect of Jesus’ identity. On the Feast of Christ the King, we recognize and honor Christ as ruler of all.

The kingdom of God exists wherever God is present among us. In this sense the kingdom of God already exists in this world. However, the kingdom of God is not yet here in fullness. The saving action of Christ continues throughout the world until the reign of God is here in full.

In the kingdom of God every person is included. No one is excluded, except those who exclude themselves. People of every color and race are welcome and of value. The kingdom especially belongs to those who are poor and lowly.

• When are you most aware of the kingdom of God on earth?
• What can you do help all people realize that they are welcome in the kingdom of God?

The Gospel in Life
All people are included in the Kingdom of God. What can you do to make the people you meet at school and in your community feel welcome and accepted?

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 11

Connecting to Faith First®
At Home Family Guide, theme 11
Junior High, Creed and Prayer, pp. 307-308 and chapter 17
Junior High, Liturgy and Morality, pp. 307-308