Junior High Session
Isaiah 62:1-5
John 2:1-11

Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Loving God, with all our imperfections you love us still.
You delight in who we are.
Help us to recognize your love in all our relationships.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The main topic for today’s session is the sacrament of marriage. To begin, invite the young people to reflect on all the wedding celebrations that they have attended. Discuss:
• What do you think are the most important elements of a wedding celebration?
• What do the bride and groom celebrate?
• What important symbols are used in a marriage celebration?

Allow time for discussion. Marriage is sacred. One of the first miracles that Jesus performed was at a wedding celebration. When Jesus changed water into wine at the wedding in Cana, he revealed his glory as the Messiah.

Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament listen to how God’s love is like that of a bridegroom.

Read Isaiah 62:1-5.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters
• What message is given to Jerusalem in this reading?
• What will the people of Israel be called?
• Why is the image of bride and bridegroom used to describe God’s relationship with Israel?

In the gospel reading Jesus attends a wedding celebration. Listen to learn what Jesus does for the bride and groom.

Read John 2:1-11.
Allow for silence.

• Who was with Jesus at the wedding in Cana?
• What was Jesus told by his mother?
• How did Jesus respond to the situation?
• What happened to the water that was put into the jars?
• Why did Jesus turn the water into wine?
• What was the reaction of the disciples?

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

The Old Testament reading today was written after Israel’s return from exile in Babylon. Because the people of Israel were uncertain about their future, the prophet writes to reassure them that Jerusalem will be restored to a place of honor. God’s promise of faithfulness is renewed.

The first reading is full of marital imagery. Israel is described as the spouse in whom God delights. The people are assured that God’s love is everlasting.

In today’s gospel Jesus reveals his glory at a wedding celebration in Cana. Jesus attends a wedding feast with his mother and his disciples. During the celebration, Jesus’ mother notices that there is no more wine. Knowing that this could be a problem for the bride and groom, she brings the situation to her son’s attention. Jesus listens to his mother. Even though he tells her that his time has not yet come, Jesus tells the servers to fill the jars with water. The water is then transformed into wine and the celebration goes on.

Today’s gospel describes the first of Jesus’ signs that he is the Messiah. As a result of the miracle at Cana, the disciples believe in Jesus.

In the midst of a wedding celebration, Jesus reveals the glory of God. This passage leads us to understand how in marriage Christ is present in the love that is shared between a husband and wife.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• What signs of God’s love do you see in your daily life?
• How do you celebrate occasions that are important to you?
• Why is it important to celebrate meaningful occasions?

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

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Sacrament of Marriage
Love is our source of happiness and fulfillment. Love is of God. The Catholic Church teaches that the love that is shared between husband and wife is a sign of God’s love. Marriage is not simply a human institution, but it is part of God’s plan in creation. Jesus confirmed the goodness of love in marriage by his presence at the wedding in Cana.

Marriage is a sacrament when two baptized persons freely enter into a permanent, loving and faithful relationship with one another. When two people unite themselves in this way they are graced with the presence of God. It is the love and grace of God that helps married couples to live up to the demands and expectations of marriage.

• What are some of the challenges that married couples face today?
• How can married couples rely on the grace of God to help them get through difficult times?
• When do married couples reflect the love of God?

The Gospel in Life
Watch the television shows that portray married couples this week and look for marriages that reflect the Church’s teaching on marriage.

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, themes 10 and 23
Junior High, Church and Sacraments, chapter 12

Connecting to Faith First®
At Home Family Guide, themes 10 and 23
Junior High, Liturgy and Morality, chapter 9