Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A, Primary

Primary Session

Matthew 11:25-30

Opening Prayer

Let us pray.
Dear God, friends are special and they bring us joy.
Thank you for giving us friends.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection

The topic for today is the virtue of chastity. Begin by inviting the children to brainstorm how they show care and respect for their friends. Write down their responses. Discuss:

• What makes a person a friend?
• How do friends bring joy to each other?
• How do we treat our friends?

Allow time for discussion. A friend is someone to share with. Friends bring joy to each other by showing they care. Jesus taught us to treat one another with respect and love. The virtue of chastity helps us to care for and share with our friends in ways that are respectful.

Listening to the Word of God

In the gospel today listen to how Jesus cares for his friends.

Read Matthew 11:25-30.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters

• How does Jesus show care for his friends?
• What does Jesus tell the others about his relationship with God the Father?
• What comforting message does Jesus give his followers?

Scripture Background

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

In today's gospel, Jesus tells his followers that he has a special relationship with God the Father. He says that the Father has given "everything" over to him. Jesus says he is God's Wisdom made flesh. Wisdom from God is given as a gift to the "merest children" and not to the clever. Jesus shows that it is important to be humble and treat all God's children with respect.

In the gospel today Jesus gives his listeners a comforting message. He invites the people who are burdened to come follow him. Following Jesus is easy and the burden is light because it is fueled by love. Jesus lets us know that if we turn to him, he will always be with us helping us through the tough times.

Questions for Deeper Reflection

• Why do Jesus and God the Father have a special relationship?
• Why does Jesus want us to follow him?
• How can Jesus help you through tough times?

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

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Chastity
God has created human beings as both male and female. Everything God created is good. God has created all human beings with the capacity to love and share with one another. The virtue of chastity helps us respect ourselves and share our love with others in proper ways.

Being a follower of Jesus influences the way we think and act toward others. Jesus treated all people with respect and love. We are called to treat others with love and respect as Jesus did.

• How does the virtue of chastity help us?
• How do you show respect for yourself?
• What are some actions that show respect for others?

Correlation to Faith First©
Faith First Grade 1, Chapter 20, pp. 165-169
Faith First Grade 2, Chapter 19, pp. 197-199
Faith First Grade 3, Chapter 20, pp. 204-211

The Gospel in Life

How can you show love and respect for your friends this week?