Christ the King, Year B, intermediate

Intermediate Session

Daniel 7:13-14
John 18:33-37

 

Opening Prayer

Let us pray.
Jesus, ruler of all, you love and care for all God’s children.
Thank you welcoming us into your kingdom.
In your name we pray. Amen.

 

Opening Life Reflection

The image for today is that of king. Because children in the U.S. do not know the experience of being ruled by a king, begin with the following activity. On a large sheet of paper or chalkboard write the words, King, Ruler and Leader. Brainstorm with the children the qualities that they think of when they look at these words. Discuss:

• How would you describe the role of a king, ruler or leader?
• Today the Church celebrates 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 Christ is ruler of all. The love and care that Jesus has for us is everlasting, and Christ has absolute power in the kingdom of God.

 

Listening to the Word of God

In the Old Testament listen to God give glory to a king of all people.
Read Daniel 7:13-14.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters

• What is given to the person presented before God?
• Who will the king rule?
• What are the qualities of this kingship?

In the gospel reading listen to Jesus tell us where he is king.
Read John 18:33-37.
Allow for silence.

• What question does Pilate ask Jesus?
• How does Jesus answer?
• Why does Jesus say that he was born?
• Where does Jesus rule?

 

Scripture Background

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

The Old Testament reading today stresses the everlasting dominion of Christ. All glory and kingship was given to him so that all people, nations and languages would 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. In today’s gospel 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. Therefore, we can always count on Jesus to be there for us. We can turn all our troubles over to Jesus with confidence that our prayers are heard. The gospel reading today makes it clear that we can rely on the power of Christ’s love. And it also assures us that in the kingdom of God, Christ is ruler of all.

 

Questions for Deeper Reflection

• Look at the qualities of a king that you put on the chalkboard or paper.
• Which of those qualities apply to Jesus?
• Does it comfort you to know that in the kingdom of God, Christ is ruler of all? Explain.

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.

• How can someone exclude himself or herself from the kingdom of God?
• Where do you see God’s presence in the world?
• What can you do to make the kingdom of God more present in the world?

 

The Gospel in Life

The power of Christ’s love is all around us. How can you be more aware of the presence of Christ in the world? How can you be a sign of Christ’s presence?

 

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 11
Grade 4, chapter 11
Grade 5, chapter 11
Grade 6, chapter 12