St Brendan, abbot

Today is the feast of St Brendan. He was born in AD 484 in Tralee, Co Kerry
Feast days are special occasions in the Church. They are days to celebrate those women and men who lived lives of holiness. Of course, there are many people who lived good, holy and wholesome lives who don’t have the title of saint. Pope Francis said, “It is by living with love and offering Christian witness in our daily tasks that we are called to become saints” (Nov 19, 2014).
St Brendan is honoured as the patron saint of boatmen, mariners, sailors, travellers, and whales. He is considered as one of the “Twelve Apostles of Ireland”, one of those said to have been tutored by the great teacher, Finnian of Clonard.
At the age of twenty-six, Brendan was ordained a priest by Erc. He founded a number of monasteries. He was an abbot, which meant he was leader of the monks in the monastery. Brendan’s first voyage and foundation took him to the Aran Islands. On that voyage he also visited the island of Hinba (Argyll), Wales and Brittany. Brendan built monastic cells at Ardfert and Shanakeel, at the foot of Mount Brandon.
From there he allegedly embarked on his famous legendary voyage to the Isle of the Blessed. Brendan built a currach, a small boat of wattle, covered it with hides tanned in oak bark and softened with butter, and set up a mast and a sail. He and a small group of monks fasted for 40 days, having prayed on the shore and embarked in the name of the Most Holy Trinity.
The journey is described in the ‘Voyage of Brendan the Abbot’ of the ninth century. Many accounts exist that describe his voyage on the Atlantic Ocean with the monks, to search for the Garden of Eden. On the journey, Brendan is claimed to have seen Saint Brendan’s Island, a blessed island covered with vegetation. He also encountered a sea monster.
The First Reading proclaimed at Mass this morning (Acts 16:1-10), can be heard via webcam or read in the New Testament, also tells of a journey. The Scripture gives an account of the disciples Paul and Timothy who travelled from town to town to deliver ‘the decisions of the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey’ (Acts 16:4). It was a good time, ‘as the churches grew stronger in faith and increased in number every day’ (Acts 15:6).
Coinciding with the feast of St Brendan is the beginning of Laudato Si’ week (16-24 May 2020). It is held to honour Pope Francis’ encyclical on care for our common home. The theme of the week is “everything is connected.” During this week Catholic everywhere will reflect and pray for action. Resources are provided online to prepare for action from 16-24 May 2020. Preparation and action made this week will be celebrated during the season of Creation, when Pope Francis has invited Catholics to pray for our common home.
We can see a connection with Laudato Si’ in the sea-related themes of which St Brendan is patron that is, boatmen, mariners, sailors, travellers, and whales. We conclude from the facts of St Brendan’s life and the times in which he lived that he spent much time outdoors, in the country side and in the ocean as he journeyed. So his livelihood was spent in dependence on God’s creation.

“LAUDATO SI’ AND THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME’”
The idea of including Pope Francis’ encyclical “Laudato Si’” into the Grow in Love programme helps the home/parish/school link in understanding the Ecological Perspective informing ‘curriculum approach to content, the development of skills and the appreciation of values.’ (The Catholic Preschool and Primary Religious Education Curriculum for Ireland 2015, (CPPRECI)).
Children are taught from the Grow in Love programme beginning in Junior Infants/P1 and following the spiral curriculum, about the ‘unique and special place of God’s creation, the interconnection of all creation and are encouraged to develop affection, and care for all creation as a manifestation of the divine’ (CPPRECI, p.24).
Given that Grow in Love is designed to be used at home and in the school, it provides links with the parish community. Families are encouraged to teach their child about the faith they chose for them in Baptism, and continue to pass on every day. It is hoped that as children are formed in their faith they would become more aware of the ‘beauty and wonder of the natural world; that they begin to appreciate the love and care God has for God’s creation; and they begin to thank God for the gift of Creation.’
So this week, as the Church honours the fifth anniversary of Laudato Si’, the children grow in familiarity with the teaching of Pope Francis through Grow in Love. With the spiral curriculum, the work of one class level is built on a previous class level, so the Christian Morality Strand with Strand Units, ‘Human Dignity’, ‘Social Teaching of the Church‘ and ‘RSE in a Christian Context’ are built and taught on a solid foundation.
The care of the earth takes a prominent place in the curriculum and this is reflected in the Grow in Love programme. The CPPRECI states that, ‘In the Catholic school, ecological respect and concern are rooted in a scripturally- based theology of creation and related ethical considerations. God creates and gives us the gift of creation to care for and celebrate, and the Christian hope for the final renewal for all creation at the end of time encourages our commitment to cultivate and care for the earth (CCC 1042)’.
In Junior Infants/P1, the children are helped to develop a sense of wonder in the world. God is the author of creation. Children learn firstly, that God is all powerful and secondly, everything created by God is good. They are invited to take responsibility for the earth that God has created.
Grow in Love Junior Infants/P1 introduces the children to the story of Creation, from the Book of Genesis in the Old Testament of the Bible which is sacred to both Christians and Jews. In some parts of the Qur’an it states that the process of Creation is spaced out over six periods (cf. Surah 7:54). There are also Hindu creation stories, but Buddhists do not generally speculate on the ultimate origin of life.
At Junior Infant/P1 level children identify God as the Creator of the world. They tell the Creation story in their own words and they are invited to describe their favourite part of creation.

Resources are available including a Children’s Grow in Love e-book on the VERITAS Grow in Love website to support this theme.

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The following resources may be helpful: ‘A Poster on Creation’, Vimeos on ‘Our Wonderful World’ Creation Story, Part 1,2,3, from Genesis:1, the song and lyrics ‘Quiet and Still’, ‘Reflective Music’, a colouring page on ‘Creation’, and two more songs ‘Do you know who made the world?’ and ‘Thank You God.’
The children in Junior Infants also study the theme of Water as a preparatory lesson to Baptism. They identify some of the ways water is used on a daily basis. They recognise that in some parts of the world water is not freely available. They describe ways they can conserve water and they thank God for the gift of water.
This theme links with the work of Trócaire and the Society of Missionary Children where children are taught about the poverty that is brought about by a lack of water and the hazards of dirty water.
Children are taught that they can pray for people who live in poverty and can help them. They can also pray for a generous spirit for everyone and for justice for all.
Resources are available on the website that will help conversation. Activities are available online for conserving water and caring for water and a song about Water.

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

SIGN OF THE CROSS
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

COMHARTHA NA CROISE
In ainm an Athar, agus an Mhic agus an Spioraid Naoimh. Áiméan.

CARE FOR THE EARTH
God our Creator, you have given us
the earth, and the sky and the seas.
Show us how to care for the earth, not
just for today but for ages to come.
Let no plan or work of ours damage
or destroy the beauty of your creation.
Send forth your Spirit to direct us to
care for the earth and all creation. Amen.

CÚRAM DON DOMHAN
A Dhia ár gCruthaitheoir, thug tú an
talamh, an spéir agus na farraigí dúinn.
Taispeáin dúinn conas aire a thabhairt
don domhan, ní hamháin don l atá inniu ann,
ach do na haoiseanna atá
le teacht freisin.
Ná milleadh aon phlean ná obair
againne áilleacht do chruthithe.
Seol do Spioraid chugainn chun
cabhrú linn aire a thabhairt don
domhan agus don chruthú ar fad.

SONGS RELATED TO THE THEME OF CREATION: ‘When Creation Was Begun’, ‘Grow in Love’, ‘They Care for Me’, ‘I am Special’, ‘When Jesus was a Boy’, ‘Jesus Loves Children’, ‘The Gift of Love’, ‘Water’, ‘We Give Thanks’, ‘Summertime’.
‘Christ died and came to life again to establish his dominion over the living and the dead, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)
‘I shall ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever, alleluia.’ (Magnificat antiphon)
‘All you lands, acclaim the Lord.’ (Psalm 99:1)

St Brendan, pray for us.

Sr Anne Neylon

St Carthage, bishop

‘The Lord has truly risen, alleluia.’(Invitatory antiphon)

Various forms of media provide daily updates during this time of Covid-19 on the number of persons who died in the pandemic. These include people who work and minister in professional and pastoral services. Such people gave their lives in serving persons who are sick. Among them internationally are, health care workers, nurses, priests, chaplains, volunteers, doctors and others who died while working on the front line. Covid-19 continues to spread around the world mercilessly. The pandemic leaves workers in a very vulnerable position.

We pray for all who have died. We pray for families who are bereaved and mourn the loss of a loved one. We pray for a spirit of courage, perseverance and trust for those who dedicate their lives to the care of the sick and dying. We pray for all who are suffering right now through war, violence, hunger, thirst and all forms of poverty and injustice. May our eyes and hearts be opened to their every need.

Sadly, many people die alone, and some deaths will never be recorded due to people dying in poor circumstances and lives of poverty.

We thank God for those who are cured from the coronavirus and are now reunited with their families.

The Gospel (Jn 15:12-17) the priest proclaims today at Mass may be heard via the webcam or read from the New Testament. Jesus commands the disciples to love one another. He says, ‘There is no greater love than this, to give one’s life for one’s friends; and you are my friends, if you do what I command you.’ Jesus explained to the disciples that he will not call them servants any more. He calls them friends. This is an endearing term because he says he has ‘made known to them everything I learned from my Father.’ It was Jesus who personally chose each one of them, ‘to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last.’ (Jn 15: 16). As the Father and Jesus are one, Jesus assures them that ‘everything you ask of the Father in my name, he will give you.’ (Jn 15:17). What the disciples are invited to do as friends of Jesus is ‘to love one another.’(Jn 15: 17). This is a big challenge, and Jesus promises his friends that he will be with them always to the end of time.

‘GIVING ONE’S LIFE FOR ONE’S FRIENDS’ AND THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

In Christus Vivit, the Apostolic Exhortation to the Young People and the Entire People of God, Pope Francis writes that ‘the heart of the Church is full of young saints who devoted their lives to Christ, many of them even dying a martyr’s death’ (no.49). These ‘young saints…in their day have been real prophets of change. He says, ‘Their example shows what the young are capable of, when they open themselves up to encounter Christ’ (no. 49). The Pope recalls some of the young people ‘who each in his or her own way, and at different periods in history, lived lives of holiness.’ (no.49).

The young people who prepare in Fifth Class/P7 and Sixth Class to receive the sacrament of Confirmation, using the Grow in Love Religious Education programme are introduced to a number of people who lived lives of holiness. Some of these were very young when they died. Many never received sainthood. Some did. Short passages about the lives of a selection of Christian heroes/ heroines and saints are accessible on the VERITAS Grow in Love website in the e-books.

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A series of questions about each hero/heroine/saint accompanies each short life story which allows for reflection on the life of the person and their contribution to life. Then the pupils reflect on their lives in the light of Christian values.

The final question about each Christian hero/heroine/saint is, ‘How might his/her life and the things he/she did and said inspire you?’ Pupils find this exercise very helpful and with discussion, prayer and reflection they come to a greater understanding and knowledge of themselves.

Pupils reflect on the variety of gifts and visions of these people: appreciation of the gift of life; giving up one’s life for others; do the ordinary things in life with an extraordinary love; dedicate their lives to prayer; work to promote unity; promote justice and fairness; cherish the gift of faith; cherish forgiveness and reconciliation; reach out to those who live in poverty and with injustice; care for persons who are homeless; are ecologically aware; values education; are ambassadors for peace; are loving parents and grandparents; and proclaim the Good News.

Pupils identify that people like St Oscar Romero (1917-1980) and St Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941) willingly gave up their lives for others and consequently they died. Jesus was the first to give up his life for all. He died on the Cross on Calvary. He is our Redeemer and Saviour.

Children learn that they too have to sacrifice their lives in small ways for example, sometimes putting other people before themselves; by sharing something they would like to keep for themselves; by listening to their parents and teachers. Through the guidance of their parents/guardian/teachers and the help of the Holy Spirit, children learn to make good choices.

Pupils are encouraged to see that the world needs them and their gifts and talents. Each one is chosen by God to follow Jesus and his way of love. Disciples are ‘sent to bear fruit, fruit that will last.’ God’s promise to them is, ‘And everything you ask the Father in my name, he will give you.’ (Jn 15: 17).

SONGS from Grow in Love that support this theme: ‘Whatsoever You Do’, ‘Go Tell Everyone’, ‘Love’, ‘Connected’, Circle of Friends’ ‘Spirit Anthem’, ‘Spirit Filled Day’, ‘Make a Good Choice’. All are available as video lyrics.

From GROW IN LOVE/ I NGRÁ DÉ

SIGN OF THE CROSS

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

COMHARTHA NA CROISE

In ainm an Athar, agus an Mhic agus an Spioraid Naoimh. Áiméan.

PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit, I want to do what is right. Help me.

Holy Spirt, I want to live like Jesus.

Guide me.

Holy Spirit, I want to pray like Jesus.

Teach me.

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.

Enkindle in us the fire of your love.

Send forth your Spirit and we shall be

created.

And you shall renew the face of the earth.

O God, who has taught the hearts

Of the faithful

By the light of the Holy Spirit,

Grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise

And ever to rejoice in his consolation,

Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

PAIDIR CHUIG AN SPIORAD NAOMH

A Spioraid Naomh, ba mhaith liom an rud ceart a dhéanamh.

Cabhraigh liom.

A Spioraid Naomh, ba mhaith liom maireachtáil mar a mhair Íosa.

Treoraigh mé.

A Spioraid Naoimh, ba mhaith liom

guí mar a ghuigh Íosa. Múin dom é.

‘S É DO BHEATHA, A MHUIRE

‘S é do bheatha a Mhuire,

atá lán do ghrásta

tá an Tiarna leat.

Is beannaithe thú idir mhná,

agus is beannaithe toradh do bhroinne,

Íosa.

A Naomh Mhuire,

a mháthair De,

guigh orainn, na peacaigh,

anois agus ar uair ár mbáis. Áiméan.

‘This is my commandment: love one another, as I have loved you, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)

‘A man can have no greater love than to lay down his life for his friends.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘I will give thanks to you O Lord among the people; I will sing praise to you among the nations.’ (Psalm 56:11).

St Carthage, pray for us.

Sr Anne Neylon

Feast of St Matthias, Apostle

‘Alleluia, the Lord is the king of apostles: come, let us adore him, alleluia’ (Invitatory antiphon).

When a person takes time to ponder on the wonder of God’s creation, the response can only be that of gratitude, wonder and awe. God saw that everything God created was good. God is goodness and love. God loves unconditionally. God’s people praise and thank God in song, praise and prayer.

The composer pays tribute to God in a four-line song, ‘Our God is an Awesome God’. (Grow in Love 8, Sixth Class)

The poet, Gerard Manley Hopkins, described the world as, ‘charged with the grandeur of God… through which Generations have trod, have trod, have trod.’ (God’s Grandeur).

Sometimes with the pace of life, we do not remain long enough to gaze on God’s creation or meditate on and contemplate God’s Word. Today Jesus invites the disciples to ‘remain in my love’ (Jn 15:9).

The Gospel proclaimed by the priest at Mass today describes an image from nature, the vine, the branches, and its fruit. This was a popular image for Jesus and the people of his time where they lived, so Jesus used the image to teach. Right now, we possibly must try to imagine an image of the vine with its branches and fruit.

The Gospel proclaimed today is ‘The Parable of the Real Vine’ (Jn 15:9-17) which can be heard at Mass via the webcam or read in the New Testament. In the parable, Jesus compares himself to the vine, and the members of the Church to the branches of that vine. Just as the branches are attached to the vine, God’s people, the Body of Christ remain united to Jesus. When united to Jesus, the disciples bear fruit in the world, because the sap runs from the vine through the branches.

Jesus’ desire is that the disciples remain in his love. The Father and Jesus are one and draw the disciples into that love, so in turn the disciples will share the love with others in the way Jesus invites them.

That is why we say the prayer, ‘Christ has no body now on earth but yours.’ Jesus depends on his disciples to witness to his love, by loving.

‘THE PARABLE OF THE REAL VINE’ AND THE GROW IN LOVE PROGRAMME

In exploring and reflecting on this parable (Jn 15:1-17) in the Grow in Love programme, the children begin to appreciate their role as members of the Body of Christ. They identify and talk about the ‘fruits of the Vine’ that others can see in them as a result of their being followers of Jesus. The fruit will show itself as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control. Children through chat, reflection on the Parable, and prayer learn how these fruits make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.

They also engage in journal activities alone and with family from the Grow in Love e-book from Sixth Class which is accessible on the VERITAS website. Resources are also available to support the teaching of this lesson e.g. ‘Look and Respond, Jesus the Vine’, Prayer Resources’ and ‘Interactive Activities’

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Pupils are taught how by receiving the Body of Christ at Mass, they become the Body of Christ in the world.

At Mass, the gifts of bread and wine are presented to the priest, after which he blesses and offers them to the Lord. The assembly gathered offer themselves with Jesus as a sacrifice. Later, at the Consecration of the Mass, the priest blesses the bread and the wine and through the action of the Holy Spirit the bread is transformed into the Body of Christ and the wine is transformed into the Blood of Christ.

During the Rite of Communion, the priest or the Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist distributes Holy Communion to the people. This consecrated host is Jesus in sacramental form. The priest or the extraordinary minister of the Eucharist takes the consecrated host from the ciborium and shows the host to the person who will receive saying these words, ‘The Body of Christ’ to which the person responds, ‘Amen.’ The person receiving ‘The Body’ of Christ prays in preparation to receive Holy Communion and afterwards in thanksgiving, welcoming Jesus into his/her heart.

The term ‘The Body of Christ’ also refers to the People of God, the members of the Church. When the people of God receive the ‘Body of Christ’ at Mass, they are nourished and sent out to bring the Good News of Jesus’ love to others. Jesus remains with each person as they joyfully ‘go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your (their) lives.’ (Concluding Rite of the Mass)

At this time of the pandemic we receive a spiritual communion.

SONGS that are connected with this theme are, ‘O Sacrament Most Holy’, ‘We Come to You, Lord Jesus’, ‘More than Just’, ‘Céad Míle Fáilte Romhat’, ‘Our God Is an Awesome God’, ‘We Come to Your Feast’, ‘The Welcome Table’.

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

INVITATION TO HOLY COMMUNION

Celebrant: Behold the Lamb of God,

Behold him who takes away the sins of the world.

Blessed are those who are called to the supper

of the Lamb.

People: Lord, I am not worthy

that you should enter under my roof,

but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

WHEN RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION

Celebrant: The Body of Christ.

People. Amen.

CONCLUDING RITE

DISMISSAL

Celebrant: Go in peace.

People: Thanks be to God.

PRAYER BEFORE HOLY COMMUNION

Lord Jesus, come to me.

Lord Jesus, give me your love.

Lord Jesus, come to me and give me yourself.

Lord Jesus, friend of children, come to me.

Lord Jesus, you are my Lord and my God.

Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

PAIDIR ROIMH CHOMAOINEACH

A Thiarna Íosa, tar chugam.

A Thiarna Íosa, tabhair dom do ghrá.

A thiarna Íosa, tar chugam agus

Tabhair tú féin dom.

A Thiarna Íosa, a chara na bpáistí, tar

chugam.

A Thiarna Íosa, is tú mo Thiarna agus mo Dhia.

Moladh leat, a Thiarna Íosa Críost

PRAYER AFTER HOLY COMMUNION

Lord Jesus, I love and adore you.

You’re a special friend to me.

Welcome, Lord Jesus, O welcome,

Thank you for coming to me.

Thank you, Lord Jesus O thank you

for giving yourself to me.

Make me strong to show your love

wherever I may be.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask you to stay

Close by me forever and love me, I pray.

Bless all of us children in your loving care

and bring us to heaven to live with you there.

PAIDIR TARÉIS COMAOINEACH

A Thiarna Íosa, gráim agus adhraim thú.

Is tú mo chara dílis.

Fáilte romhat, a Thiarna Íosa.

Go raibh maith agat as teacht chugam.

Go raibh maith agat, a Thiarna Íosa,

as ucht tú fein a thabhairt dom.

Cabhraigh liom do ghrá a léiriú

cibé áit a mbím.

Bí taobh liom, a Thiarna Íosa,

fan in aice liom go deo.

Beannaigh sinn, na páistí atá faoi do chúram

agus tabhair ar neamh sinn chun cónaithe leat féin.

Táim reidh anois, a Thiarna Íosa,

tá grá agam go leor.

Taim reidh anois le do ghrá a thabhairt

sa bhaile is don saol mór. Áiméan.

‘The holy city of Jerusalem had twelve foundation-stones, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. The Lamb himself was the light of that city, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)

‘When all is made new and the Son of man sits on his throne of glory ‘, you will sit on twelve thrones to judge the twelve tribes of Israel, alleluia.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘He makes them sit with princes, with rulers of his people.’ (Psalm 112:8)

St Matthias, pray for us.

Sr Anne Neylon

Optional memorial of Our Lady of Fatima

‘Keep these days with joy, and give glory to the Lord, alleluia.’ (Antiphon, Morning prayer)

A child once described his mother’s love saying, ‘she loves me to the moon and back.’ Fleshing this out, the child couldn’t identify words quickly enough to describe his mother’s love who was caring, loving, kind and protective. This child also knew his mother wouldn’t give him everything he asked for, no matter how much he pleaded.  However, that didn’t stop him asking her. He trusted her and hoped it was possible for her to change her mind.

This month of May, the Catholic Church honours Mary, Mother of God and Our Mother. As the child pleads to his mother for something he wants, we too can ask Mary for our needs and those of the world. We wait like a child in hope. Right now we need an end to many injustices in our world and we need an end to Covid-19. We can pray and intercede through Mary. Mary always leads us to Jesus.

Today is the memorial of Our Lady of Fatima. Our Lady of the Rosary appeared to the three children, Lúcia, Jacinta and Francisco, on the 13th May, in summer of 1917. The ‘Lady’ asked the children to pray for sinners and for an end to the World war. In the final apparition on 13 October, the ‘Lady’ identified herself as Our Lady of the Rosary. Our Lady called for prayer and conversion. She taught the children several prayers. One of these prayers is sometimes recited after each decade of the Rosary. These two prayers are addressed to God.

‘O Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to heaven, especially those who are in most need of your mercy.’

Another popular Fatima prayer that is well known is, ‘My God, I believe, I adore, I hope and I love You! I ask pardon of You for those who do not believe, do not adore, do not hope and do not love You.

Today we recall that as Our Lady repeatedly asked the children to pray the Rosary, she is also inviting us to pray, ‘Continue always to pray the Rosary every day.’ We are free to accept her invitation.

Pope Francis shows a great confidence in Mary, Mother of God and in her love and protection. He prays regularly at various Marian Shrines. In August 2018, on the occasion of Pope Francis’ visit to Ireland for the ‘World Meeting of Families’, Pope Francis visited the Marian Shrine in Knock, Co Mayo.

On 25 April 2020, Pope Francis wrote a letter to the people of the world. He invited and encouraged them to pray the Rosary at home during the month of May.

In addition, the Pope offered two prayers to people to say daily, with the Rosary to pray for an end to the spread of the corona virus. If and when we choose to pray the Rosary, the Pope promises, ‘I myself will pray in the month of May, in spiritual union with all of you.’ (Pope Francis, 25-4-2020).

The Rosary is an ancient prayer in the Catholic Church.

THE ROSARY AND THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

There are many children and families who know how to pray the Rosary, but there are some who may not. The Grow in Love programme introduces the Rosary, a prayer dedicated to Our Lady, in the junior classes of the school. As they are taught the various mysteries of the Rosary, they come to know Mary, Mother of God and Our Mother as the Holy Family lived in Nazareth. They see that Mary always leads us to Jesus. They also read the Sacred Scripture and learn how Mary accompanied her Son, Jesus in times of sorrow and joy. Jesus grew up with Mary and Joseph. The family lived in Nazareth.

In school, the children are taught how to pray the Rosary and they can pray with their family and in their parish. Today, many children are the evangelisers in their own families. The school supports the home and the parish in Religious Education.

To pray a decade of the Rosary, we say one Our Father, ten Hail Marys and one Glory be to the Father.

When children use the Rosary beads to pray a decade of the Rosary their finger/thumb co-ordination develops. They also acquire other skills while praying, for example, they learn to be quiet and still; to focus; to ponder on the prayers; to count; to reflect; to pray with others; to read Sacred Scripture and learn about the life of Jesus.

When children pray the Rosary regularly they grow in appreciation of prayer and the life of Jesus. They also learn to honour Our Lady, Mother of God. The Mysteries of the Rosary are accessible in the e-books for all classes on the VERITAS Grow in Love website.

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The Grow in Love e-books for GIL First Classes/ P3 and Second Classes/P4 provide helpful child friendly resources for learning how to pray the Rosary. The prayers required i.e., The Sign of the Cross, Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father (revised from Junior Infants/P1) may be accessed at the back of the Grow in Love e-book.

The Grow in Love dashboard on the VERITAS website provides the following resources for GIL First Class/P3 and Second Class/P4; video of ‘The Presentation in the Temple’, slideshow of Jesus’ life, video of children praying the ‘Hail Mary’ using gestures, video of the Joyful Mysteries’, lyrics of ‘Grow in Love’, ‘Quiet and Still’ and ‘Mary Our Mother’, Colouring page of the ‘Rosary’ and ‘the Visitation’ and also an Art Activity and reflective music.

Resources for the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary and songs/ hymns/ prayers to Mary are available in Third Class/P5 and Fourth Class/P6.

Resources for Fifth Classes/P7 and Sixth Classes are also accessible on the website. Additional prayers are included at this level to pray the Rosary, i.e. The Sign of the Cross, The Apostles’ Creed and the ‘Hail Holy Queen’.

SONGS to sing from Grow in Love during the month of May: ‘Mary our Mother’, ‘Quiet and Still’, ‘Mary’, ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’, ‘Bring Flowers of the Rarest’, ‘The Magnificat’, ‘Regina Coeli’. All these are available as video lyrics on the VERITAS website.

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

SIGN OF THE CROSS

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

COMHARTHA NA CROISE

In ainm an Athar, agus an Mhic agus an Spioraid Naoimh. Áiméan.

OUR FATHER

Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name;

thy kingdom come,

thy will be done

on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass

against us;

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil. Amen

AN PHAIDIR

Ár nAthair ata ar neamh,

go naofar d-ainm,

go dtaga do ríocht, go ndéantar do thoil ar an talamh

mar a dhéantar ar neamh.

Ár naran laethúil tabhair dúinn inniu,

agus maith dúinn ár bhfaicha,

mar a mhaithimindne dár bhféachúna

féin,

is ná lig sinn i gcathú,

ach saor sinn ó olc. Áiméan.

HAIL MARY

Hail Mary, full of grace,

the Lord is with thee.

Blessed art thou among women,

and blessed is the fruit of thy womb,

Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God,

pray for us sinners,

now and at the hour of our death.

Amen.

‘S É DO BHEATHA, A MHUIRE

‘S é do bheatha a Mhuire,

atá lán do ghrásta,

tá an Tiarna leat.

Is beannaithe thú idir mhná,

agus is beannaithe toradh do bhroinne,

Íosa.

A Naomh Mhuire,

a mháthair Dé,

guigh orainn, na peacaigh,

anois agus ar uair ár mbáis. Áiméan.

GLORY BE TO THE FATHER

Glory be to the Father,

and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning,

is now and ever shall be,

world without end. Amen

GLÓIR DON ATHAIR

Glóir do Athair,

agus don Mhac

agus don Spiorad Naomh,

mar abhí ó thús,

mar atá anois,

mar a bheas go brách,

le saol na saol.

Áiméan.

THE MYSTERIES OF THE ROSARY

The Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Nativity (The Birth of Jesus)
4. The Presentation
5. The Finding of the Child Jesus in the Temple

The Mysteries of Light

1. The Baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan
2. The Wedding Feast of Cana
3. The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God
4. The Transfiguration of Our Lord
5. The Institution of the Eucharist

The Sorrowful Mysteries

1. The Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. The Crowning With Thorns
4. The Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion

The Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles
4. The Assumption of Our Lady to Heaven.
5. The Crowning of Mary, Queen of Heaven

‘I, am the true vine, alleluia; you are the branches, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)

‘If you remain in me and my words remain in you may ask what you will and you shall have it, alleluia.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘Listen, O daughter, pay attention. Forget your father’s house and your nation.’ (Psalm 44:11).

Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us.

Sr Anne Neylon

‘The Lord has truly risen, alleluia.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

Certain products can never be bought, regardless of whether one has money or not. Something very sought after in the 21st century, more particularly in this time of Covid -19, is peace. Peace is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. People seek peace in a variety of ways. In the current world people seek calmness, quiet, stillness, tranquillity, silence, harmony and serenity. They will pay any price to experience this state which is good for their well-being.

However, the peace that Jesus offers ‘is not as the world gives peace.’ (Jn 14:27). Besides peace being a fruit of the Holy Spirit, others include love, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control. St Paul spoke to the people of Galatia about the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). The Holy Spirit is our helper and teacher and will remind us of how Jesus taught and showed his disciples how to love. Then we too with the help of the Holy Spirit will try to live the way of love.

Every year Catholic schools, primary and post-primary, celebrate Catholic Schools Week. This year, 2020, the theme for Catholic Schools Week was ‘Living in Harmony with God’s creation’. Catholic schools celebrated how each person is called to promote peace, unity and harmony in the world, in their words, thoughts and actions. When God’s people strive to live in this way, they follow the way of Jesus, the way of love. Each day of Catholic Schools Week held a focus i.e. Living in Harmony with God; Living in Harmony with Neighbours; Living in Harmony with All Generations; Living in Harmony with the Earth; and Living in Harmony in our Catholic School. This week is hugely positive in Catholic Schools and great efforts are made to build the partnership between school, parish and home. Celebrating such a week helps focus on the lived ethos of the Catholic School and highlights its inclusivity.

In today’s Gospel (Jn 14: 27-31) proclaimed by the priest at Mass which can be heard on the webcam or read in the New Testament, Jesus says, ‘Peace be with you! My peace; not as the world gives peace do I give it to you.’ Jesus desires to give his apostles his gift of peace and tells them, ‘Do not be troubled; do not be afraid.’ In this first farewell discourse to his apostles, Jesus is trying to draw near to them. Jesus is gently telling them he is going away but he will not leave them alone. That’s why he says if they loved him, they would be glad he was going. Jesus loves the Father and is doing what the Father taught him.

Jesus now wants his disciples to do what he has taught them. Disciples today are invited to live in the same way. Jesus assures us, his disciples that there is no need to be afraid. He will give us his gift of peace and remain present to us. We thank God for his presence among us always and for the gift of peace. We pray for peace in our world.

THE GROW IN LOVE PROGRAMME AND THE MASS

From the early stages of the Grow in Love series the celebration of the Eucharist is taught. Children are taught about the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. In time they recognise the sequence of the Mass, the gestures the priest uses at Mass, the parts of the Mass where the assembly of people sit and stand. They are taught how to pray for and offer a sign of peace, how to prepare and receive Holy Communion. They also come to understand that Jesus is present in four ways at Mass: in the priest, the assembly of people, under the appearance of bread and wine and in the Word. They are taught that when Mass is finished, everyone present is sent out to live like Jesus and to proclaim the Good News.

Because today’s Gospel (Jn 14:27-31) has a focus on Jesus offering peace to his disciples, it might be a good opportunity to see how within the Mass, the priest prays for peace and blesses the assembly with peace at Mass. These prayers from the Mass follow on below.

The Prayer of St Francis is one of the formal prayers taught in Sixth Class as children prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.

There are lessons in all the Grow in Love e-books on the Mass with resources to support the teaching of the Mass. All are available on the Grow in Love website.

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Helpful resources from the GIL might include: vimeos on the ‘First Reading’, ‘the Psalm’, ‘Gospel’, from a Mass setting,’ Interactive Activities’, ‘The Eucharistic Prayer’.

SONGS that might suit the theme of peace: ‘The Lord, He is my Shepherd’,’ Gathering Song’, ‘Alleluia’, ‘Psalm 148’, ‘We Come to You, Lord Jesus’, ‘Parish Anthem’, Céad Míle Fáilte Romhat’, ‘Eat This Bread’, Ithigí an t-Arán Seo’, ‘Spirit Anthem’. There are songs in the Fifth Classes/P7 and Sixth Classes programme, including songs/hymns to the Holy Spirit and on the theme of peace available as video lyrics on the website.

PRAY from Grow in Love/ I nGrá Dé

PRAYER OF ST FRANCIS

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace

where there is hatred, let me sow love

where there is injury, pardon

where there is doubt, faith

where there is despair, hope

where there is darkness, light

and where there is sadness, joy

O Divine Master, grant that I may

not so much seek to be consoled as to console

to be understood, as to understand

to be loved, as to love

for it is in giving that we receive

and it is in pardoning that we are pardoned

and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life

Amen.

PRAYERS FROM THE MASS

(where peace is invoked and offered)

INTRODUCTORY RITES

Celebrant: Grace to you and peace from God our

Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

THE GLORIA

Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace to men of good will.

We praise You.

We bless You.

We adore you.

We glorify You.

We give You thanks for Your great

glory.

Lord God, heavenly King,

O God, almighty Father.

Lord Jesus Christ, Only-Begotten Son

Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the

Father,

you Who take away the sins of the world,

have mercy on us;

you take away the sins of the world,

receive our prayer;

you Who sit at the right hand of the Father,

have mercy on us.

For you alone are the Holy One,

you alone are the Lord, you alone, are the Most High,

Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,

in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

COMMUNION RITE

Celebrant: Deliver us, Lord, we pray,

from every evil,

graciously grant peace in our days,

that, by the help of your mercy,

we may be always free from sin

and safe from all distress,

as we await the blessed hope

and the coming of our Saviour, Jesus

Christ

People: For the kingdom,

the power and the glory are yours

now and forever.

SIGN OF PEACE

Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be

with you always.

People: And with your spirit.

Celebrant: Let us offer each other

the sign of peace

AGNUS DEI

Lamb of God, you take away the sins

of the world, have mercy on us.

Lamb of God, you take away the

sins of the world,

have mercy on us

Lamb of God, you take away the sins

of the world,

grant us peace.

CONCLUDING RITE

DISMISSAL

Celebrant: Go in peace.

People: Thanks be to God.

‘Peace, I leave you, alleluia: it is my own peace I give you, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon).

‘If you loved me you would be glad that I am going to the Father, alleluia.’(Magnificat antiphon)

‘They will tell of the glory of your kingdom that all may know of your mighty deeds, your reign and its glorious splendour.’ (Psalm 144:12)

St Nereus, Pray for us.

St Achilleus, pray for us

St Pancras, pray for us

Sr Anne Neylon

‘The Lord has truly risen, alleluia.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

Numerous young people prepared to receive the sacrament of Confirmation during these weeks and months. However, because of restrictions put in place due to Covid-19, the celebration of the sacrament was temporarily postponed. Naturally, this is a great source of disappointment for the young people, their families, friends and all associated with the conferring and celebration of the sacrament. These young people in partnership with their parents/guardian, families, priests and teachers worked diligently for this great event of the coming of the Holy Spirit with the sevenfold gift.

This preparation is ongoing from the time that the young person received Baptism. In Baptism, the first sacrament of initiation, a person becomes a member of God’s family and receives the Holy Spirit and the gift of faith. Confirmation is the second sacrament of initiation which by a ritual enables a baptised person to confirm the baptismal promises made on their behalf at baptism. Confirmation signifies the strengthening of a person’s faith enriching it with the sevenfold gift which helps bear fruits of love in daily life.

In the Gospel proclaimed at Mass today (Jn 14:21-26), which can be heard on the webcam or read in the New Testament, tells of the coming of the Holy Spirit. We hear that the Holy Spirit is the Helper who will be sent by the Father in the name of Jesus. He will teach the disciples all things and remind them of that Jesus has told them. (Jn 14: 26).

What a blessing to have the Holy Spirit as a helper! The Holy Spirit is also a teacher. The Gospel tells us that the Holy Spirit will teach us all things and remind us of all Jesus has taught us. That is why it is important to pray to the Holy Spirit.

Pope Francis in his Apostolic Exhortation, Christus Vivit, encourages young people when he invites them, ‘to ask the Holy Spirit each day to help you experience anew the great message….the Holy Spirit can change your life, fill it with light and lead it along a better path….the Holy Spirit helps you find all that you need in the best possible way… let yourself be prompted by the Holy Spirit.’ (CV, no.131).

In these days of lockdown, perhaps young people and their families might continue to prepare to receive the sacrament of Confirmation by praying to the Holy Spirit. Because the Holy Spirit is a helper they might ask the Holy Spirit to remind the people of the world to pray for an end to the pandemic. By way of preparation, they might also continue to do acts of love at home and be patient and kind.

The Fifty days of Easter concludes with the celebration of Pentecost Sunday. This year the Church celebrates Pentecost Sunday on 30 May 2020. At Pentecost, ‘the Church was made manifest to the world, by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.’ (CCC, 1076).

THE GROW IN LOVE PROGRAMME AND THE HOLY SPIRIT

From Junior Infants/P1 of the Grow in Love Religious Education programme, the children are taught about the Holy Spirit.

From the Catholic Preschool and Primary Religious Education Curriculum for Ireland (2015), Level 1, the children engage with the following concepts in learning about the Holy Spirit; that Christians are baptised in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit; view the objects in the church such as holy water, holy water font and baptismal font; that when children are baptised they become members of the Church family; that at Baptism water is poured on the person’s head and the priest says, ‘….. I baptise you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit’; that blessing oneself with holy water reminds a person of their Baptism.

From Junior Infants/P1 there is much to be learned about the Holy Spirit. What is taught at this class standard will be reinforced as children progress through the school.

In Junior Infants/P1, children are taught about Baptism and the pouring of holy water on the person’s head; they will describe the uses of holy water; they will bless themselves with holy water and they will pray. Some of the children in the class are baptised. Though they may not remember the experience, it may be recalled through chat with family or prompted by images taken on the day of Baptism.

At school in Junior Infants/P1, children hear stories about water and Baptism which are central to the experience of the sacrament. Children pray the Sign of the Cross and Glory be to the Father. They engage in the ritual of blessing themselves with holy water in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. They are taught about the priest who blesses holy water. They can bless themselves with holy water by dipping their finger in the holy water font in the church or at home. On a visit to the church, the children may have seen the baptismal font. They will sing the song ‘Water’.

At home with their families/parents/guardian the children can chat about their Baptism. They might have photos of people who were at the celebration and shared a meal. The Grow in Love e-book for Junior Infants will be helpful for discussion, prayer and activity. This e-book and other resources are available on the VERITAS Grow in Love website.

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Resources on the dashboard of the website that may help in understanding Baptism include, a vimeo on ‘Enestina’, lyrics for songs ‘Quiet and Still’, and ‘Water’; a link to ‘Water Conservation for Kids’, and an interactive online activity on ‘Caring for Water’

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

SIGN OF THE CROSS

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

COMHARTHA NA CROISE

In ainm an Athar, agus an Mhic agus an Spioraid Naoimh. Áiméan.

GLORY BE TO THE FATHER

Glory be to the Father,

And to the Son,

And to the Holy Spirit;

As it was in the beginning,

Is now, and ever shall be,

World without end. Amen.

GLÓIR DON ATHAIR

Glóir don Athair,

Agus don Mhac,

Agus don Spiorad Naomh,

Mar abhí ó thus,

Mar atá anois

Agus mar a bheas go brách,

Le saol na saol. Áiméan.

PRAYER TO THE TRINITY

Praise to the Father,

Praise to the Son,

Praise to the Spirit,

The Three in One.

PAIDIR DON TRÍONÓID NAOFA

Moladh do Athair,

Agus don Mhac,

Agus don Spiorad Naomh,

An Triúr ina aon.

PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit, I want to do what is right. Help me.

Holy Spirt, I want to live like Jesus.

Guide me.

Holy Spirit, I want to pray like Jesus.

Teach me.

PAIDIR CHUIG AN SPIORAD NAOMH

A Spioraid Naomh, ba mhaith liom an rud ceart a dhéanamh.

Cabhraigh liom.

A Spioraid Naomh, ba mhaith liom maireachtáil mar a mhair Íosa.

Treoraigh mé.

A Spioraid Naoimh, ba mhaith liom

guí mar a ghuigh Íosa. Múin dom é.

‘Work not for the food that cannot last, but work for food that endures to eternal life, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)

‘The Holy Spirit, the Advocate, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all I have said to you, alleluia.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name be the glory, for the sake of your love and faithfulness.’ (Psalm 113B:1)

Sr Anne Neylon

‘The Lord has truly risen, alleluia.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

A number of people currently live and work in Ireland, and are now far from their homeland. Some are health care workers struggling on the frontline in hospitals, nursing homes and in private homes. Family life is difficult for them because they always live in fear of Covid-19. Quality of life deteriorates and families are challenged in such circumstances. These same families are worried about their own families ‘back home’. On coming to Ireland originally, they said goodbye to family and friends and promised to return. Please God they will return. Hope prevails.

The opening words of the Gospel (John 14:1-12) proclaimed at Mass today are, ‘Do not be troubled! Trust in God and trust in me! These words Jesus spoke to his apostles. He told them he would leave them and ‘go to prepare a place’ for them, but he would return again and he would ‘take’ them to him. He wanted them to know he would be always with them. Thomas claimed ‘we don’t know where you are going; how can we know the way?’ Philip asked Jesus ‘to show us the Father’. They were slow to believe in Jesus’ words.

Pope Francis spoke recently about the way ‘the Lord wants to comfort and console’ God’s people, by ‘drawing near to them’, by speaking ‘the truth gently without wounding’ and offering them ‘hope’. Pope Francis acknowledged that ‘it is not easy to allow ourselves be comforted by the Lord.’ Such was the situation for the apostles.

Jesus gently tries to tell the disciples that he remains near to them. He asked them, ‘Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me?’ He urges them to believe in him because he is doing the works of the Father (Jn 14:11). Those who believe in Jesus will do the same works. Jesus promises that, ‘anything you ask in my name, I will do.’ (Jn 14:14). Disciples are invited to believe that Jesus is the way and to follow him. Jesus is always with them.

THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME AND FINDING THE WAY OF LOVE

The Grow in Love Religious Education programme explores Jesus’ desire to show the way of love to the disciples. Jesus wants to remain close to each one and wants them to believe in him. Believing in Jesus means believing in God and doing God’s work. He promises them the gift of eternal life.

Jesus was a witness to God’s love and surrendered to God’s will. In proclaiming the Good News, Jesus taught the apostles and the disciples about love, about being loved and about loving.

The children always begin contemplating God’s love by reflecting on the experience of love in their own lives among family, friends, parish and school. Gradually, they learn and experience God’s love in their daily lives. God created the world from love for love. God sent Jesus to proclaim the Good News of God’s love. On reading Sacred Scripture hearts and minds are opened through the Holy Spirit to the power of God’s love. In time, children learn how to love God and others. They make choices about love and live the consequences of the choices they make. In prayer, they learn to communicate with God.

In teaching the disciples about love, Jesus taught the new commandment, ‘And now I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples’ (Jn 13:34-35).

The disciples heard the Great Commandment, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and love your neighbour as yourself.’

(Lk 10:27)

Jesus also taught them the Golden Rule, ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’ (Mt 7:12).

The way of Jesus is love. The Holy Spirit teaches children to pray and give thanks to God for the gifts they have. They learn to use these gifts to bring joy and gratitude to their lives and to others. Children witness to and reflect on role models in life who lead lives of holiness.

Children are taught the call of justice to look after those who are in need in our society and those who live in poverty because of war and famine in other countries. They engage in the work of Trócaire and the Society of Missionary Children, the mission where ‘children help children.’

Social justice is a very important part of GIL and children explore the values of justice, charity and mercy.

They also explore the letter from Pope Francis, Laudato Si’, On the Care of our Common Home’.

Resources on the theme of love and working for social justice are accessible on the VERITAS website. From the e-books and the Bible, the children read the Scripture passages about Jesus and about how he shared the Good News by loving, healing, teaching and forgiving.

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A Sample of resources that may help are: ‘A Vox Pop with Young Travellers’, a vimeo on ‘The Good Samaritan’, An Interactive Activity on ‘Human Rights’, ‘Climate Change Stories’, ‘Climate Justice Explained’, a vimeo on ‘Greta Thunberg, Climate Activist’, a slideshow on the ‘Rescue of Migrants’, a poster on ‘A map of Israel’, and a vimeo on ‘Working Together for Social Justice’.

SONGS related to the theme of love include: ‘Whatsoever You Do’, ‘God Has Given Us the Earth’, ‘The Summons’, ‘Love’ ‘They’ll Know We Are Christians By our Love’, ‘The Great Commandment’, ‘Where Your Treasure Is’, ‘Make A Good Choice’, ‘Whatsoever You Do’, ‘Use What You’re Given’. All are available as /lyrics video lyrics.

SING from the song ‘The Summons’

‘Will you come and follow me

if I but call your name?

Will you go where you don’t

know and never be the same?

Will you let my love be shown; will you let my

name be known;

Will you let my life be grown

in you and you in me…?’

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

PRAYER ON OPENING THE BIBLE

Bless me, O God, so that

in opening this Bible

I may open my mind and heart

to your Word.

May it nourish me

as it nourished Jesus. Amen.

PAIDIR AR AN MBÍOBLA A OSCAILT

Beannaigh mé, a Dhia, ionas

nuair a osclaím an Bíobla seo

go n-osclóidh mé m’intinn agus

mo chroí

do do Bhriathar.

Go gcothaí sé mé

faoi mar a chothaigh sé Íosa.

Áiméan.

PRAYER ON CLOSING THE BIBLE

Bless me, O God, so that

in closing this Bible

I may enclose your Word

in my heart and in my mind

as Jesus enclosed it in his. Amen.

PAIDIR AR AN MBÍOBLA A DHÚNADH

Beannaigh mé, a Dhia,

agus an Bíobla seo a dhúnadh agam

go gcoinneoidh mé do Bhriathar

i mo chroí agus i m’intinn

faoi mar a rinne Íosa.

Áiméan.

‘Whoever remains in me, and I in him, bears fruit in plenty, says the Lord, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon).

‘I give you a new commandment: love one another, as I have loved you, says the Lord, alleluia.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘May your love be upon us O Lord, as we place all our hope in you.’ (Psalm 32:22)

Sr Anne Neylon

St Louise de Marillac, Patroness of Social Workers

‘The love of Jesus crucified urges us.’

It is delightful and challenging to read Pope Francis’ writings. In his recent Apostolic Exhortation, ‘Christus Vivit’ addressed to ‘Young People and to the Entire People of God (2019), the Pope writes with a very youthful heart, mind and disposition.

ABOUT POPE FRANCIS AND THE SYNOD, ‘YOUNG PEOPLE FAITH AND VOCATIONAL DISCERNMENT’

Pope Francis wrote, ‘I have let myself be inspired by the wealth of reflections and conversations that emerged from last year’s Synod.’ This Synod, the 15th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops took place in 2018, with its theme ‘Young People, Faith, and Vocational Discernment’. In this document, the Pope echoed ‘the myriad voices of believers who made their opinions known to the Synod’ and the young people who, were not believers ‘shared their thoughts’ and ‘raised issues ‘that led’ the Pope ‘to ask new questions’ (Christus Vivit).

The Pope focused on ‘Jesus, Ever Young’ in Sacred Scripture and continued to say to the readers ‘You, are the Now of God.’ This is powerful Good News. He praised the work of many young saints and encouraged the youth saying, ‘Through the holiness of the young, the Church can renew her spiritual ardour and her apostolic vigour.’ (no. 50). Young saints are introduced in this chapter of the Exhortation.

CHRISTIAN HEROES AND HEROINES IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

Throughout the Grow in Love programme, a variety of saints’ lives are explored. In Grow in Love 8, Sixth Class, a new feature emerges, which briefly describes the life of A Christian hero/heroine. These heroes/heroines include recognised saints and people who lived their lives in holiness. The condensed accounts are accessible on the VERITAS Grow in Love website in the e-book for Sixth Class.

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The Church honours the saints, firstly, because each one loved God and loved other people in daily life. Secondly, saints are honoured because they are exemplars to imitate. Several saints became saints because their lives were influenced by the lives of the saints they read.

St Thérèse of Lisieux wrote, ‘I love to read the lives of the saints very much. The account of their heroic deeds inflames my courage and spurs me on to imitate them.’ (catholicism.org)

Today, 9 May, the Church honours St Louise de Marillac (1591-1660), co-foundress of the Daughters of Charity with St Vincent de Paul. She is one of the Christian heroines included in Grow in Love. The children read a brief account of the life of St Louise. Louise allowed Jesus to show her the way, (this lesson is entitled, ‘Jesus Shows Us the Way’). Jesus continues to shows his disciples the way. This is the way of love. Helpful resources on the dashboard of the Grow in Love website include, the songs ‘Use What You’re Given’, ‘Who Do You Say That I Am’? and a vimeo of ‘The Parable of the Three Servants’ (Mt 25:14-30).

ST LOUISE DE MARILLAC, PATRONESS OF SOCIAL WORKERS

St Louise de Marillac was born in Paris in 1591. Louise never knew her mother, which caused her sadness and suffering, but her Dad loved her. She attended school in the Dominican Abbey at Poissy, and received a very good education. Later, she went to live in a boarding house with other young girls. The mistress of the house was poor so Louise helped with daily housekeeping and encouraged the other girls in residence there, to engage in craftwork to assist in the upkeep of the boarding house. Louise was always willing to help those in need and she used her skills and talents to recruit the assistance of her colleagues.

These two characteristics of Louise- a willingness to help those in need and her skill in collaboration were instrumental, as well as her deep love for God, in her contribution to founding the Company of the Daughters of Charity.

Prior to her marriage, Louise desired to join the Capuchin nuns. She was refused on the grounds of ‘delicate health.’ On 5 February 1613, Louise married Antoine Le Gras and later they were blessed with the birth of their son Michel Antoine. They were happily married but Antoine got sick. He required constant nursing care and Louise devoted herself entirely to him. Antoine died in December 1625.

Louise struggled greatly for some years. She spent time at spiritual reading, prayer, writing and she took care of Michel and provided for him, until he could do so for himself. She reflected arduously on what God wanted her to do with her life. St Vincent de Paul was her spiritual director and over time, Louise ‘devoted herself to prayer and works of mercy among the poor.’ On Pentecost 1623, Louise in her prayer was enlightened by the Holy Spirit and was cleared of doubts which she experienced.

In 1629, Louise began her work in earnest with St Vincent de Paul and the Confraternities of Charity that were set up in parishes around Paris and in the country areas. She worked with the Ladies of Charity and helped them in their mission of corporal and spiritual works of mercy for the poor.

In 1633, St Louise de Marillac and St Vincent de Paul founded the Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul to assist the Ladies of Charity in their work of alleviating poverty. Originally some of these girls were servants of the Ladies of Charity. Sometimes the Ladies, instead of visiting the sick and the poor in their homes sent their servants instead.

The Company of the Daughters of Charity began with some of these servants of the Ladies. Louise gathered a small number of women to live in community to serve the sick and poor people. Initially, like the mustard seed, numbers were small but increased with time.

St Vincent and St Louise were ‘two persons whose hearts and souls’ saw Jesus Christ in every person who was poor. The Sisters identified those who lived in poverty with Christ. This was the founding spirit and it still lives on today. The Sisters still strive to give themselves to God, to live in community and to serve those who live in poverty.

The first Sisters visited the sick poor in their homes and the young girls who lived in poor circumstances needed to be educated. Gradually, the Sisters extended the ministry to include hospital visits, galley slaves, the foundlings, the soldiers on the battlefields, those who suffered in war torn villages and those with mental health issues.

Throughout her life, St Louise prayed to the Holy Spirit for guidance and enlightenment. She was devoted to Mary, Mother of God. She encouraged the Daughters of Charity to imitate Mary’s virtues so that they could better love God in community and in their neighbour, especially those who lived on the margins of society. The motto of the Daughters of Charity is, ‘The Charity of Jesus crucified urges us.’

Today, by God’s grace, the ministry of the Daughters of Charity continues internationally and the Vincentian Family includes a wider collaborative membership, including the Daughters of Charity.

St Louise de Marillac is the patron saint of sick people, widows and orphans, and in 1960, Pope John XXIII, now St John XX 111 proclaimed her the Patroness of Social Workers.

SING from the video lyrics of the Grow in Love website: ‘Who Do You That Say I Am?’, ‘Go Tell Everyone’, ‘Whatsoever You Do’, ‘Use What You’re Given’, ‘They’ll Know We Are Christians By Our Love’, ‘Christ Be Our Light’, and ‘Where Your Treasure Is’.

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

SIGN OF THE CROSS

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

COMHARTHA NA CROISE

In ainm an Athar, agus an Mhic agus an Spioraid Naoimh. Áiméan.

ACT OF FAITH

O my God, I believe in you

and in all that your holy Church teaches

because you have said it

and your Word is true.

You are the Christ,

the Son of the living God.

Lord, I believe; increase my faith. Amen.

ACT OF HOPE

O my God, I put my hope in you

because I am sure of your promises.

Deliver us, Lord, from every evil and

grant us peace in our day,

as we wait in joyful hope for the coming of our Saviour,

Jesus Christ, Amen.

ACT OF LOVE

O my God,

I love you with all my heart,

with all my soul, and with all my strength.

Lord, increase our love.

Help us to love one another. Amen.

‘All will recognise you as my followers when they see the love you have for one another, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)

“I tell you most solemnly, what you did for the least of my brothers and sisters, you did for me.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘He has not forgotten his love nor his faithfulness to Israel. The furthest ends of the earth all have seen God’s saving power.’ (Psalm 98:2)

‘We must have continually before our eyes our model, the exemplary life of Jesus Christ. We are called to imitate this life.’ (Louise de Marillac, Spiritual Writings, (L. 217, p.261).

St Louise de Marillac, pray for us.

Sr Anne Neylon

‘The Lord has truly risen, alleluia.’(Invitatory antiphon)

What is in a name? A person’s name identifies him/her personally. A name is the most important word about a person. To call someone by her/his name is a way of recognising them. A person’s name is used with respect and dignity. The Lord called the prophet Isaiah and said, ‘I have called you by your name. You are mine’ (Is 43:1).

During the month of May, the Catholic Church honours Mary, Mother of God by showing devotion to her in many ways such as engaging in ritual, reading Sacred Scripture, expression in art form and through song and prayer.

Many prayers invoke Mary including the ‘Litany to the Blessed Virgin Mary’. These invocations describe Mary as a loving, faithful Mother of all. Mary is ‘Our Mother of Perpetual Help’. We intercede through her by naming her as, ‘Holy Mary’, ‘Holy Mother of God’, Mother of Christ’, ‘Mother of Divine Grace’, Mother of Good Counsel’ and many others.

For example, by taking one title we can pray, ‘Mother of Divine Grace, pray for us.’

Mary is also given the title of Queen, for example, ‘Queen of Apostles,’ ‘Queen of Martyrs’, Queen of All Saints’, ‘Queen of the Most Holy Rosary’, ‘Queen of All Saints’, ‘Queen of Peace’

We can pray, by just taking one title, ‘Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, pray for us.’

From the litany we also appreciate Mary’s virtues. Mary is admirable, prudent, merciful, faithful and just.

Mary is described by attractive images. For example, we invoke her by calling on her as, ‘Mirror of Justice’, ‘Cause of our Joy’, ‘Spiritual Vessel’, ‘Mystical Rose’, ‘Gate of Heaven’, ‘Morning Star’, ‘Health of the Sick’, ‘Refuge of Sinners’ and ‘Comforter of the Afflicted’. Mary is also the ‘Help of Christians’. Just to chat or reflect on any one of these images gives one a sense of Mary’s all embracing, inclusive love for God and every person.

THE GROW IN LOVE PROGRAMME

In addition to what the children have already been taught in junior classes, the Grow in Love programmes for Fifth Classes/P7 and Sixth Classes/P8, use two additional lessons to teach about Mary, Mother of God. The children reflected on Mary, Mother of God from Junior Infants/P1 in Sacred Scripture, song and prayer.

At these senior class standards in the Catholic Preschool and Primary Religious Education Curriculum for Ireland (2015) GIL is written to the Strands and Strand Units in Level Four.

It is hoped that the children will recognise in Mary’s life, that God graced Mary in a special way for her mission; that Mary accepted her role in God’s plan of salvation when she willingly became the Mother of God; that Mary was a woman of faith, obedience and wisdom; that Mary grew in faith and she devoted herself to the person and work of her Son; that Mary was totally preserved from the stain of original sin and she remained pure from all personal sin throughout her life (Immaculate Conception); Mary was taken up body and soul into heaven when her earthly life was finished (Assumption).

In addition, students will read passages from Sacred Scripture about Mary and they will pray in her honour. Building on prior knowledge, teachers will introduce the pupils in Fifth Class/P7 to the Polish Mary: the Black Madonna of Czestochowa.

In Sixth Classes/P8, GIL introduces the Mysteries of Light (the Luminous Mysteries). St John Paul 11 introduced these mysteries to help people meditate on significant moments in Jesus’ life.

It may be a good idea to do a Bible Search on each of the Mysteries of Light; The Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan, The Wedding Feast of Cana, The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God, The Transfiguration of Our Lord, and The Institution of the Eucharist.

GIL 8, also introduces the icon of ‘Our Mother of Perpetual Help.’ The prayer ‘Hail Holy Queen’ is also taught.

Families together recall and identify Marian Shrines where people go on pilgrimage to honour Mary. They recognise stories associated with these places of apparition.

Children will be taught the origins and significance of the Black Madonna.

Using the Grow in Love programme, families are invited to grow in appreciation of the variety of images of Mary by artists over time. Through this they will grow in a deeper understanding of Mary and her faith.

The Rosary becomes a familiar prayer that is central to all Marian devotions internationally.

The image of ‘Mary Undoer of Knots’ was made known to the world by Pope Francis. He saw the image in Augsburg while he was studying in Germany and brought it back to Argentina. He then spread devotion to Mary, Undoer of Knots. Families are reminded on looking at this image that Mary will help us undo the knots, or problems in our lives. This is now a very popular devotion.

Listening to these songs and watching the video lyrics might be helpful in fostering devotion to Mary, Mother of God: ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’, ‘Bring Flowers of the Rarest’ ,’When Creation Was Begun’, ‘Mary’, ‘Mary our Mother’ ‘Hail Mary’, ‘Regina Coeli’, ‘Magnificat’.

On the dashboard of the VERITAS website there is access to resources which will help families learn about Mary, the Mother of God. Resources for prayer are accessible in the Grow in Love e-books, especially for Fifth/ P7 and Sixth Classes.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

Resources include a slideshow on the images of Mary, a slideshow and an online interactive activity on the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary; prayer; video lyrics for ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’, ‘Bring Flowers of the Rarest’; a Multi lingual version of ‘Hail Mary’ and a Map of Marian Shrines.

There are a variety of journal activities, prayers and reading from Sacred Scripture to help pupils to pray, chat and grow in faith and love. Throughout the Liturgical Year in the various themes and lessons, students will come to understand and know that Mary is a role model for disciples. She is the first disciple.

Those who desire to imitate Mary’s attributes and virtues can ask her in prayer for that grace so as to grow more in love of God and others each day. Mary always leads us to Jesus as we grow in discipleship.

From GROW IN LOVE/ I NGRÁ DÉ

SIGN OF THE CROSS

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

COMHARTHA NA CROISE

In ainm an Athar, agus an Mhic agus an Spioraid Naoimh. Áiméan.

HAIL HOLY QUEEN

Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy.

Hail our life, our sweetness and our hope!

To thee do we cry,

poor banished children of Eve.

To thee do we send up our sighs,

mourning and weeping in this valley of tears!

Turn, then, O most gracious Advocate,

thine eyes of mercy toward us,

and after this, our exile,

show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

O clement, O loving,

O sweet Virgin Mary.

THE MYSTERIES OF THE ROSARY

The Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Nativity (The Birth of Jesus)
4. The Presentation
5. The Finding of the Child Jesus in the Temple

The Mysteries of Light

1. The Baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan
2. The Wedding Feast of Cana
3. The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God
4. The Transfiguration of Our Lord
5. The Institution of the Eucharist

The Sorrowful Mysteries

1. The Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. The Crowning With Thorns
4. The Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion

The Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
4. The Assumption of Mary
5. The Crowning of the Blessed Virgin as Queen of Heaven and Earth

‘I am going now to prepare a place for you, and I shall return to take you with me; so that where I am you also may be, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)

‘The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep, alleluia.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘Before the mountains were formed, before you made the earth and the world, from eternity to eternity-you are God.’ (Psalm 88:2).

Sr Anne Neylon

‘The Lord has truly risen, alleluia.’(Invitatory antiphon)

When Pope Francis visited Ireland for the World Meeting of Families in 2018, he spoke to the Irish people with the message of hope of God’s constant and personal love for all God’s people. God’s desire is that the hope and presence of God’s love will sustain and nourish peoples’ trust, faith and confidence during this time of pandemic and for eternal life.

The Marian Shrine in Knock, Co Mayo is a place of pilgrimage. It is the site of an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1879. St Joseph, St John the Evangelist, a lamb representing Jesus, the Lamb of God and the Cross, the angels and the altar were also visible at the apparition. Pilgrims travel there annually. Pope Francis once said that, ‘pilgrimage is a way of believers expressing their faith in God.’ Pilgrimages are integral to many world religions – Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Jews.

In the Apparition Chapel in the Marian Shrine, Knock, Co Mayo, Pope Francis through the intercession of Our Lady prayed for the families of the world and particularly for families in Ireland. He acknowledged that Mary our Mother knew ‘the joys and struggles’ within each family. He assured those listening of Mary’s love for them. He spoke confidently that Mary would bring these ‘joys and struggles’ to her Son.

Pope Francis gifted the people of Ireland with ‘a golden rosary’, in Knock, aware of the tradition of the family rosary in Ireland. Today, during this time of pandemic, the Pope urges us to pray the rosary, knowing that in times past, many people drew ‘comfort and strength’ from ‘Our Lady’s participation in the joyful, luminous, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of Christ’s life!’

Concluding his prayer, Pope Francis invited the people to pray the Angelus prayer.

In the Easter season, the prayer, ‘O Queen of Heaven’ is recited instead of The Angelus Prayer. This is in hymn form in the Grow in Love, Fourth Class /P6 programme (Theme 7, Lesson 3).

ABOUT PILGRIMAGE AND THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

The Grow in Love programme for Third Classes/P5 and the Fourth Classes/P6 introduces children to the concept of Christian pilgrimage. Many children may have experienced going on a pilgrimage with their families. It may have been a pilgrimage to a local well, a Christian site associated with a saint, or the Marian Shrine, Knock or even further afield e.g. Lourdes.

A pilgrimage is a journey and it is different to a holiday though sometimes a pilgrimage and a holiday are combined. People go on pilgrimage to express their faith, to say thank you to God or to pray for a special intention. The Marian Shrines introduced in Grow in Love to these classes are located in Knock, Lourdes and Guadalupe.

Christians are pilgrim people. On a pilgrimage one leaves behind the sense of what’s familiar and walks the path with God and possibly seeks a new perspective, insight or outlook on life. In ancient times, pilgrims walked for hundreds of miles carrying little with them. In modern times, pilgrims still journey to sacred places but with modern amenities the journey may not as strenuous.

In the Scripture, children explore Abram’s journey (Gen 12:1), the journey of the Israelites (Book of Exodus) and Mary’s journey to visit Elizabeth in the hill country of Judea to visit Elizabeth (Lk 1: 39-56). A pilgrimage is a journey.

Children learn to identify Lourdes as a place of pilgrimage and a place of healing. They hear the story of how Our Lady appeared to St Bernadette and how Our Lady became known as Our Lady of Lourdes. The lesson is taught in the context of ‘The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.’ Children pray for people who are sick and those who care for them. They also learn the Angelus prayer which honours the story of the Annunciation (Lk 1:26-38), at which time Mary identified herself as servant of the Lord. They sing ‘The Bells of the Angelus’.

Children are also taught the story of the apparition of Our Lady at Knock and they discuss its relevance for their lives. They discuss journeys and the differences between a ‘tourist and a pilgrim’. They pray to ‘Our Lady of Knock’ and sing ‘When Creation was Begun’. They view the image of the mosaic in the Basilica of Our Lady of Knock and relate it to the story of the apparition. They discuss the place of the prayer during a pilgrimage.

The children hear the story of ‘Our Lady of Guadalupe’ and her appearance to Juan Diego in 1531.

Children continue to pray to Mary and allow her to lead them to her Son, Jesus. They also honour her as Mother of God and our Mother. They begin to read and sing ‘The Magnificat (Lk 1: 46-55), Mary’s great song of praise to God marvelling at the great things God has done for her. ‘The Regina Coeli’ replaces the Angelus prayer during the Easter season. This song expresses the joy of Mary being the mother of Jesus. We sing and pray Alleluia. The prayer ‘The Memorare’ is also introduced gently to the children where they grow in confidence that Mary is one in whom they can confide in prayer.

The children in these middle standards also learn the ‘Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary’. They revise the story of The Annunciation and the Scripture passages included in the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary.

A number of resources are available on the VERITAS website to help teach the content of these lessons e.g. ‘The Story of Lourdes’, ‘The Story of ‘Our Lady of Guadalupe’, a vimeo on ‘Pilgrims at Guadalupe’, ‘A virtual Tour of Lourdes’ a vimeo on ‘the Rite of The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick’, an icon of St Kevin and prayers used at a Prayer Service. The Grow in Love e-books are also accessible.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

SONGS to sing at this time, ‘Mary’, ‘Mary our Mother’, ‘Magnificat’, ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’, ‘Bring Flowers of the Rarest’, ‘The Bells of the Angelus’, ‘Alleluia’ ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’, ‘When Creation Was Begun’ ‘A Celtic Blessing’. All are available as lyrics and video lyrics on the website.

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

O, QUEEN OF HEAVEN (pray from Easter Sunday to Pentecost instead of the Angelus)

O Queen of heaven, rejoice, Alleluia;

For He whom you were worthy to bear, Alleluia;

has risen as He said, Alleluia.

Pray for us to God, Alleluia.

Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, Alleluia.

Because our Lord is truly risen, Alleluia.

Let us pray.

O God, who by the Resurrection of Your Son our Lord Jesus Christ,

didst deign to give joy to the world:

grant we beseech You, that through His Mother, the Virgin Mary,

we may obtain the joys of everlasting life.

Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

‘The disciple is not above his master; but the fully trained disciple will be like his master, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon)

I am the shepherd of the flock; I have come so that they may have life, and have it in all its fulness‘, alleluia.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘I will sing forever, O Lord, of your love and proclaim your faithfulness from age to age.’ (Psalm 88:2)

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.

Our Lady of Knock, pray for us.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us.

Sr Anne Neylon