Intermediate Session
Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15
John 6:24-35

Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Thank you, God, for your goodness and mercy.
You care about our every need.
Help us to never overlook your constant love.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The topic for today is Eucharistic Celebration. To begin, invite the children to think of a time when they really wanted or needed something. Divide the group into small groups of three or four and invite each child to share with their group a story of receiving something that they have wanted or needed. Discuss:
• What do you do when you need or want something?
• Who do you complain to about not getting what you want or need?
• What is it like to receive something that you have wanted or needed?

Allow time for discussion. We can ask God for what we need or want. God cares about our every need.

Listening to the Word of God
Listen to find out what happens when the Israelites complain about not getting what they want.

Read Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters
• Why do the Israelites complain to Moses?
• What do the people need?
• How does God give the Israelites what they need?

In the gospel today, listen to find out what the people really need from Jesus.

Read John 6:24-35.
Allow for silence.

• Why are the people looking for Jesus?
• What do the people really need?
• What gift has God given to the world?

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

In today’s first reading from the Old Testament the people are grumbling to Moses because they are tired and hungry. The Israelites complain against God because they have been wandering in the desert for years. God responds to their cries about lack of food by providing quail and manna for them to eat. Moses helps the people understand that the food has come from God by calling the manna “the bread that the Lord has given you to eat.”

In the gospel Jesus discusses the real meaning of his miracles and teachings. When the crowd asks, “When did you come here?” Jesus accuses them of failing to understand the miracle he worked—the multiplication of loaves in last week’s gospel. The people came looking for him not because of the wonder he worked, but because of the bread that filled their bellies. Jesus wants the people to understand the real reason for the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Jesus tells the crowd that he will give them food to satisfy a deeper hunger. The food that God offers lasts forever. Jesus is speaking of the bread of God which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. The people want Jesus to give them this bread. They do not see that standing before their eyes is Jesus, the bread of life.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• Who cares for you when you are tired and hungry?
• When do you ask God for what you need?
• Why is Jesus the bread of life?

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

Doctrinal Discussion Starters

Eucharistic Celebration
From the earliest times, believers gathered together to break bread and celebrate the Eucharist. The basic structure of Mass as we celebrate it today has been handed down from those days. The structure has two parts. The first part of the Mass is called the Liturgy of the Word, and the second part is called the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

In the first part, the people gather to listen and respond to God’s Word that is proclaimed. After the readings, a homily is offered. This helps us understand and live the Gospel. We then pray for the needs of the Church, the world and our local parish. In the second part—the Liturgy of the Eucharist—the assembly brings the gifts of bread and wine to the altar. After these are prepared, the Eucharistic Prayer is offered. Then the whole assembly joins in singing or praying aloud the Lord’s Prayer before sharing communion. We receive the Body and Blood of Christ in Holy Communion. The presider then offers concluding prayers and we are sent forth to carry on the work of Jesus in the world.

When we share in the Eucharist we share in the fullness of the life of Jesus. We are given the strength to live as followers of Jesus.

• What are the two parts of the Mass?
• How do you show reverence for the Eucharist?
• What are we sent forth to do at the end of Mass?

Sacrament Connection
We believe that Jesus Christ is really and truly present in the Eucharist. The consecrated bread, which is the Body of Christ, is called the Blessed Sacrament.

The Gospel in Life
Think of one way you will participate more fully in Mass this week.

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 27
Kindergarten, chapter 16
Grade 1, chapter 14
Grade 2, chapter 8
Grade 3, chapter 13
Grade 4, chapter 12
Grade 5, chapter 14
Grade 6, chapter 15
Junior High, Church and Sacraments, chapter 10

Connecting to Faith First®
At Home Family Guide, theme 27
Kindergarten, chapter 16
Grade 1, chapter 14
Grade 2, chapter 8
Grade 3, chapter 16
Grade 4, chapter 12
Grade 5, chapter 14
Grade 6, chapter 15
Junior High, Liturgy and Morality, chapter 6