Primary: Presentation of the Lord

Primary Session
Luke 2:22-40

Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Creator God, the earth is filled with your blessings.
Help us to be thankful for the wonders of your creation.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The topic for today is the belief that Jesus is fully human and fully divine. For today’s session provide blank sheets of white paper and crayons. Invite the children to draw pictures of God’s creation. Have volunteers share their pictures with the group. Discuss:
• Where do you find beauty in God’s creation?
• What is special about human beings?
• How can people bring beauty into the world?

Allow time for discussion. Jesus is both human and divine. Jesus shows all human beings how to live as God’s children.

Listening to the Word of God
In the Gospel today listen to find out what happens when Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple.

Read Luke 2:22-40.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters
• Why do Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple?
• Who do Mary and Joseph meet at the temple?
• What do Simeon and Anna tell Mary and Joseph?

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

Today’s feast of the Presentation invites us to celebrate the coming of Jesus Christ into the world. We remember Jesus’ coming as God’s coming into the world offering the light of salvation.

Today’s gospel shows that Jesus is part of a family that is faithful to God’s law. In keeping with the Law of Moses, Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple to present him to the Lord. Simeon and Anna, two faithful people of Israel, recognize Jesus as the Son of God. Today’s gospel celebrates that Jesus’ coming brings God’s love into the world.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• How is Jesus part of a family?
• Why is it important to follow God’s Law?
• How do you show your faithfulness to God?

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

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Two Natures
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus possesses two natures: Jesus Christ is fully human and fully divine. Jesus is both the Son of God and the Son of the Virgin Mary. In the one person Jesus, God and humanity are united.

The feast of the Presentation celebrates that Jesus, the light of all peoples, is the only Messiah. Jesus is fully human and truly divine. Because of Jesus’ humanity, he can identify totally with us. Because of Jesus’ divinity he helps us to live as children of God.

• What does the Catholic Church teach about Jesus?
• What does the feast of the Presentation celebrate?
• How does Jesus help us live as God’s children?

Sacrament Connection
In the Sacrament of Baptism we are joined to Jesus Christ. We become his followers and members of the Body of Christ, the Church. In Baptism we are reborn as God’s children.

The Gospel in Life
How can you learn more about Jesus this week?

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, chapter 25
Kindergarten, chapters 8 and 10
Grade 1, chapters 3 and 5
Grade 2, chapter 20
Grade 3, chapters 5 and 20