Lectionary Resources
YOUR CATECHETICAL LIBRARY FOR THE LITURGICAL YEAR
Junior High Session
Acts 2:14, 36-41
John 10:1-10
Let us pray.
Jesus our Shepherd, lead us on the path of goodness.
Help us to hear and know your voice.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
The theme for today is Jesus, the Good Shepherd. To begin the session, mark three columns on a large sheet of poster paper or chalkboard. Title the first column, Media, the second column, Contemporary Music, and the third, Jesus. Invite the youngsters to brainstorm some messages that they receive from the first two columns. Write down their responses. In the column titled, Jesus, brainstorm with them what they think Jesus is calling them to. Write down their responses. Discuss:
Allow time for discussion. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his flock. Jesus offers us a relationship of trust and love.
In the first reading from Acts of the Apostles, Peter tells the people about following Jesus. Listen to his powerful message.
Read Acts 2:14, 36-41.
Allow for silence.
In the Gospel today listen to how Jesus is like a good shepherd.
Read John 10:1-10.
Allow for silence.
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings using the Catechist Background section.
Today’s first reading from Acts is taken from Peter’s sermon on the day that the Holy Spirit is poured out on the disciples. Peter spreads the word that Jesus is Lord and Messiah. Some of the crowd are struck by Peter’s Spirit-filled testimony and they ask, “What are we to do?” Peter commands that they believe and be baptized. Many accepted Peter’s message and the community of Christians grew rapidly. In today’s passage from Acts we see that when the good news is proclaimed it demands a response from listeners.
The gospel reading today makes clear that believers are to trust in Jesus Christ alone, the true shepherd. The imagery of shepherd and sheep found in today’s gospel relies on the understanding of the shepherding practices of the time. In first century Palestine the shepherd knew each one of his sheep and he protected them. The sheep would recognize the shepherd’s voice and, when called, would respond to no other. In those days, the shepherd would walk in front of the sheep and lead them.
In today’s Gospel passage, the description of Jesus as shepherd shows how he protects and cares for his followers by laying down his life for them. Jesus the good shepherd offers his followers a close relationship that brings life.
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Jesus reveals who God is for us. Jesus, the Good Shepherd helps us to know about God’s unending love. In the Scriptures, the Good Shepherd is the leader who lays down his life for his flock. He is a caring companion who protects his sheep. The sheep recognize the good shepherd’s voice and they follow him. Jesus had all these qualities and even gave his life for us.
We are members of God’s flock, the Church. We put our faith and trust in God because God loves us and will always care for us.
How can you choose to be a “good shepherd” and care for others this week?
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 27