Intermediate Session
1 Samuel 3:3b-10, 19
John 1:35-42

Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
O God, your love surrounds us.
Help us listen for your voice and follow your guidance in our daily lives.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The topic for today is Vocation. Divide the group into pairs and explain that they are going to play a listening game. Invite the children to take turns asking their partner to tell three things that are important to them. Each partner will listen while the other is talking. When all the pairs finish sharing, invite each child to introduce his or her partner by telling the large group what three things are important to them. Discuss:
• Why is it important to be a good listener?
• How can you be a good listener?
• Who are the people you listen to?

Allow time for discussion. Listening to those who love and care for us gives our lives direction. God loves us and wants what is best for us. We are called to listen to and respond to God.

Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading Samuel hears the voice of God. Listen to find out what happens.

Read 1 Samuel 3:3b-10, 19.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters
• How does Samuel hear the voice of God?
• Who helps Samuel recognize God’s voice?
• How does Samuel finally respond to God’s call?

In the gospel today, listen to the call of the first disciples.

Read John 1:35-42.
Allow for silence.

• Who are the disciples looking for?
• Why do they follow Jesus?
• What does Jesus invite the disciples to do?

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

In the first reading Samuel experiences a personal call from God. Samuel is called to serve God in all things. At first Samuel does not respond to the Lord’s call, but God does not give up. Eli helps Samuel understand that he must listen for the voice of God. The call of Samuel shows the importance of obedient listening. Samuel listens and responds to God’s call to be a prophet.

Today’s gospel also deals with the call of the Lord. The disciples respond to God’s call to follow Jesus. Jesus challenges his followers by asking the question “What are you looking for?” Jesus wants his disciples to listen and respond to God’s call thoughtfully. The disciples are invited to come and see who Jesus is. The call of the first disciples in today’s gospel reminds us that we too are called by name to get to know Jesus personally and to live as his followers.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• When are you invited to come to a friend’s house?
• Why does Jesus invite the disciples to come and stay with him?
• How can you listen and respond to God’s call in your daily life?

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

Doctrinal Discussion starters

Vocation
Listening and following God’s call is an ongoing process for all believers. The word vocation comes from the Latin word “vocatus” which means “a calling.” All people are created by God to know and love him. We are born with a desire for God. Listening for the voice of God in our lives helps us to live our vocation.

God invites all people to share in the divine life and to be a member of God’s kingdom. The call to be a disciple of Jesus is central to the faith of all the Baptized. The sacrament of Baptism celebrates our call to follow Jesus and to live lives of holiness. An important part of living out our vocation is to share the Good News of our salvation with others.

Catholics believe that we live out our baptismal commitment in structured ways such as married life, single life, the priesthood, and the consecrated life as a member of a religious community. Whether one is married or single, a priest or a member of a religious order, all believers are called to be holy as Jesus taught us. The Church helps all believers to live lives of holiness.

• What helps us listen to the voice of God?
• What did Jesus teach us about living a holy life?
• How does the Church help us to follow Jesus?

Sacrament Connection
Baptism is the sacrament that celebrates our call to be a disciple of Jesus and it incorporates us into the life of the Risen Lord. We live out our baptismal commitment by responding to God’s call to live holy lives.

The Gospel in Life
What is one thing that you can do this week to show others that you are living as a follower of Jesus?

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 14
Grade 4, chapters 3 and 5
Grade 5, chapter 20
Grade 6, chapter 19

Connecting to Faith First®
At Home Family Guide, theme 14
Grade 4, chapter 3
Grade 5, chapter 20
Grade 6, chapter 19