Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C, intermediate

Intermediate Session
Isaiah 6: -2a, 3-8
Luke 5:1-11

 

Opening Prayer

Let us pray.
Oh God, you speak to us through the scriptures and tradition.
Help us to hear your call.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

 

Opening Life Reflection

Provide each child with a pencil and a sheet of paper. Invite the children to list their favorite sports and hobbies on the paper.

Divide the large group into small groups of three or four. Allow time for the children to share their favorite sports and hobbies within their group. Discuss:

• Name some of your favorite sports and hobbies?
• Why are they your favorite?
• Are you talented at a particular sport or hobby?
• How is God revealed to you through your favorite sport or hobby?

Allow time for large group discussion. God is revealed to us in the ordinary events of our lives. Jesus revealed the God’s presence to Simon Peter while he was fishing in his boat.

 

Listening to the Word of God

In the Old Testament reading listen to the call of God.
Read Isaiah 6:1-2a, 3-8.
Allow for silence.

 

Scripture Discussion Starters

• How does God call the prophet?
• How is the prophet cleansed of his sin?
• What is the prophet’s response to God’s call?

In the Gospel reading Jesus enters a boat belonging to Simon Peter. Listen to find out what happens.

Read Luke 5:1-11.
Allow for silence.

• Why does Jesus need to get away from the crowd?
• How does Jesus teach the crowd?
• Why does Jesus ask Peter to let down his net for a catch?
• What does Peter tell Jesus?
• After the miraculous catch, what does Jesus tell Peter he will be fishing for from now on?

 

Scripture Background

Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings.

In the Old Testament reading today, we see how God’s revelation causes self-examination and remorse for one’s sins. A person’s encounter with God is shown in this reading as both terrifying and attractive. God assures the prophet that he is worthy of his calling to speak God’s own words to the people. This brings forth a whole hearted response from the prophet, “Here I am; send me!”

In the Gospel Jesus calls Simon Peter to follow him. Like the prophet in the Old Testament reading, Peter is also sent out to speak the word of God to the people.

The setting for today’s Gospel is in a boat on a lake. It is a familiar setting for Peter. We hear that Peter has been trying to catch fish all day with nothing to show for it. Jesus enters Peter’s boat and asks him to throw the net into the lake once again. Peter argues the point, yet he listens to Jesus. They let down the net and what a catch they have! The miraculous catch of fish is Peter’s encounter with the presence of God. This encounter is so powerful that Peter gets on his knees before Jesus. Jesus tells Peter, “Do not be afraid, from now on you will be catching people.” Peter receives Jesus’ call to discipleship. He leaves everything and follows Jesus.

 

Questions for Deeper Reflection

• Why does Jesus tell Peter that instead of catching fish he will be catching people?
• What do these readings tell you about God’s call?
• What do you think it means to leave everything and follow Jesus?

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

 

Doctrinal Discussion Starters

Tradition

Jesus called others to follow him and take on his mission of spreading the good news of the kingdom of God to the world. Peter and others accepted his invitation. They told others about Jesus’ life, his works, and the importance of the resurrection. Eventually, followers of Jesus wrote down the good news.

God’s revelation to us is not just a long-ago event that focuses on the first disciples. Catholics believe that while nothing is added to the content of God’s revelation through Jesus Christ, the mystery of God’s presence is unfolded throughout our lives today. God continues to speak to us through Scripture and Tradition. From the apostles we have inherited the sacred deposit of faith, contained in Scripture and Tradition. Tradition is “everything that serves to make the People of God live their lives in holiness and increase their faith.”

• What helps to increase your faith in God?
• How is the Catholic faith passed on to you?
• When do you listen to the good news about Jesus?
• When do you tell others the good news about Jesus?

 

The Gospel in Life

Thank God for the hobbies that you like and the sports that you are good at. Remember to thank God for the talents and gifts that make you good at these activities.

 

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 6
Grade 4, chapter 10
Grade 5, chapter 9
Grade 6, chapter 11

 

Blest Are We
Grade 5, chapter 20
Grade 6, chapter 12