Lectionary Resources
YOUR CATECHETICAL LIBRARY FOR THE LITURGICAL YEAR
Primary Session: Matthew 2:1-12
Let us pray.
God of Light,
may we shine with love like the star of Bethlehem.
Thank you for the best gift of all, the gift of your Son, Jesus.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
The theme for today is God’s universal gift of salvation. To begin, provide stars cut out of gold paper and pencils for each child. Invite the children to think of the greatest gift that God has given them and have them write it down on their star. Discuss:
Allow time for discussion. The wise men found their way to Jesus by following a star that gave great light. On today’s Feast of the Epiphany we celebrate that God’s loving gift of salvation is for all people.
In the Gospel today listen to find out how the wise men find their way to Jesus.
Read Matthew 2:1-12.
Allow for silence.
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel using the Catechist Background section.
Today the Church celebrates the Feast of the Epiphany. On Epiphany we recognize that Jesus, the light of the world, was made visible to the magi who searched for him. On today’s feast we celebrate that God’s saving love is offered to all people.
In the Gospel the wise men from the east find the Christ child by following the light of a star. These magi are foreigners, travelers from a different country. They are Gentiles who have never learned about the Law or the prophets. However, they find their way to Jesus and honor him. The wise men follow a star, which leads them to Jesus Christ, the light of salvation.
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Today’s feast of the Epiphany proclaims that God’s gift of salvation is for all people. The word Epiphany means to show forth or to make visible. On Epiphany we are reminded that Jesus, the Savior of the world was made visible to the magi. Jesus welcomes all those who seek him.
The Catholic Church believes that all are meant to share in God’s love. The Church works throughout the world to spread the good news about Jesus.
The Gospel in Life
How can you honor Jesus this week?
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 23
Grade 1, page 249 parish and page 359 school
Grade 2, page parish and page 359 school
Grade 3, page parish and page 359 school