‘Come before the Lord, singing for joy.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines on 7 November, 2013, where Gerardo and Jovita Amantillo lived in Basey, a coastal region of Leyte Island, close to Tacloban. Water rushed into their home and the couple were swept out of the house. They grabbed hold on a neighbour’s roof for safety. They clung to the roof for two hours until the storm eased.

Winds of 230 km per hour struck the central islands. They destroyed entire towns and brought heavy rains and waves that resulted in flooding, landslides and widespread damage.

Over 6,300 people died as a result of typhoon Haiyan and four million people were left homeless. Not all typhoons have this force or cause such destruction but natural disasters are strong enough to uproot people from homes that aren’t built on a solid foundation.

Residents in such areas live in fear of storms, hurricanes, typhoons, tsunamis and floods. People who are poor are most vulnerable in these crises.

ABOUT THE WORD OF GOD

The readings proclaimed at Mass today can be heard via webcam or read from the Old Testament and New Testament.

The Gospel (Mt 7:21-29) proclaims the teaching of Jesus about discipleship. The crowds were struck by his teaching because he spoke with authority. In speaking with authority, Jesus on this and countless other occasions spoke in a language that people could easily understand in order to help them understand the meaning of the kingdom of Heaven. His authority spoke to the belief of others.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus used the image of a house built on rock and one built on sand. The meaning is obvious but Jesus is teaching the disciples that in order to reach the kingdom of Heaven they are asked to build their lives on a solid foundation of faith similar to the house that is built on rock.

They do this by responding to God’s call to show love and respect for God, by loving and showing kindness to oneself and one’s neighbour and by taking care of the environment.

 SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

By way of chat children will understand the importance of having a home. They are aware of the crisis of homelessness in Ireland and the world. Many children and families engage in work for people who are homeless on a daily basis. As well as having a home, they discuss the type of accommodation in which people live; how safe it is and how secure it is; and how it is built on a solid foundation.

Children in time recognise the importance of living their lives on a solid foundation. Today’s Gospel might encourage those accompanying children in their faith to explore Jesus’ mission as a teacher and hear his words and what he invites them to do. During the weeks of Covid-19, the children have been home schooled by their teachers and parents in many and creative ways. They have learned many new skills in this way. Jesus invites the children to love, to read and reflect on God’s word and to be kind to all.

The Gospel proclaims that Jesus taught with authority. People were struck by what he said. They understood his message. Children might take a moment to think of his/her teacher in school and thank God for him/her. On the ‘Five Finger Prayer’ they might thank God for the groups of people represented by each finger.

Firstly, the image of the house built on rock and sand might be an appealing topic for them. They might think about their own house and home. They recall areas of the world where houses and buildings aren’t built on a solid foundation as their home might be. The work of Trócaire will support this. On the Trócaire website children can read stories about families which will help them in their care of their common home. They recall why they work for the Green Flag in school.

God invites in response, that God’s people be generous in sharing with people who find themselves living in such conditions. They might think again of the annual Trócaire Box appeal.

Children recall how Jesus firstly called twelve apostles after Jesus was sent by God to share the Good News of God’s love for all. The apostles were the foundation of the Church and Peter was the first Pope.

Our love is concrete in our lives. It is not enough to say ‘I love God’ if I do not care for my family and friends. Children recall the words of St Paul, ‘Love is patient. Love is kind.’ Children pray for a spirit of love and kindness.

The sacrament of the Eucharist nourishes lives to love. In prayer, the disciple listens to Jesus and asks him to show him/her the way. God invites the disciple to love as she/he reads Scripture. What might God be inviting me to do today? To appreciate the beautiful world in which I live and to be grateful; to pray for those who are sick; to pray for those who care for the sick; show concern for those whose houses have been destroyed by natural disasters; to research places and people lives who have been left homeless; to pray for our country at this time as it prepares to open up again; to help at home; to forgive someone who hurt my feelings; to care for our common home; to share the Good News of God’s love with everyone.

Resources are available on the VERITAS website to support the above points, including the Children’s grow in Love e-books.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/ I nGrá Dé:

‘Jesus, the Way to the Father’ (John 14:1-3), ‘The Coming of the Holy Spirit’ ( Acts 2:1-13), ‘Jesus and Thomas’ (Jn 20:24-29), ‘The Great Commandment’ ( Luke 10:27), ‘God Calls Moses’ ( Ex 3:1-16),’ Jesus Heals a Man who was Deaf’ ( Mark 7:32-35),’ Jesus Teaching about Prayer’ ( Matthew 6: 5-14), ‘Jesus asked his followers to help others to know him’ (Mt 28:19-20).

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘Love’, ‘All things Bright and Beautiful’, ‘God has given us the Earth’.

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

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 atá ar neamh,

Go naofar d-ainm,

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

Mar a dhéantar ar neamh.

Ár narán laethúil tabhair dúinn inniu,

Agus maith dúinn ár bhfiacha,

Mar a mhaithimindne dár bhféachúna

féin,

Is ná lig sinn i gcathú,

Ach saor sinn ó olc. Áiméan.

‘Give your people knowledge of salvation, Lord, and forgive us our sins.’(Benedictus antiphon)

‘The Lord has satisfied and filled with good things those who hungered for justice.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

Rescue us O Lord, for the glory of your name. (Psalm 78:9).

 from LAUDATO SI’ ON ‘HAVING A HOME’

‘Having a home has much to do with a sense of personal dignity and the growth of families. This is a major issue for human ecology. In some places, where makeshift shanty towns have sprung up, this will mean developing those neighbourhoods rather than razing or displacing them. When the poor live in unsanitary slums or in dangerous tenements, “in cases where it is necessary to relocate them, in order not to heap suffering upon suffering, adequate information needs to be given beforehand, with choices of decent housing offered, and the people directly involved must be part of the process”. ‘(Laudato Si’, no. 152).

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee’.

Sr Anne Neylon

‘John rejoiced and pointed out the Lamb of God: come let us adore him.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

During the time of pandemic, the media portrayed significant birthday celebrations that occurred for individual persons. These celebrations filled the hearts of those with joy, whose birthdays needed to be celebrated in the ‘now’ rather than postpone to a further date.  For many reasons, waiting was not the best option. Images were highlighted on banners, cards, balloons and cakes. Joy and excitement were transmitted on our screens, as party goers maintained at a physical distance.

The birth of a baby at any time is a time to rejoice. However, the birth of a long awaited baby is even a greater source of rejoicing. This is the story of the birth of St John the Baptist, a long awaited baby, called by God to do a special task, ‘to foretell the coming of his Son.’

THE WORD OF GOD

The readings proclaimed at Mass today can be heard via webcam or read from the Old Testament and New Testament.

The first reading from the prophet Isaiah (Is 49:1-6) proclaims a message from God for God’s people. God’s call repeats itself in Scripture. The call to be a prophet came before the prophet was born. The Lord protects those he calls and assigns a special mission to them. The prophet acknowledges God’s call as prophet and he thought to himself, ‘I have toiled in vain, I have exhausted myself for nothing.’ Meanwhile this prophet is unknown to people and rejected by many. In time, the prophet recognises that he was ‘honoured in the eyes of the Lord’ that ‘my God was my strength’. The prophet is ‘to gather Israel’ to the Lord and to one another. God’s people will be restored from exile and saved. The further promise to the prophet is ‘I will make you the light of the nations’ so that all may know they are saved.

Such was the call to John in the womb of Elizabeth.

The Gospel tells the story of his birth. John was the one who prepared the way for Jesus.

The Gospel (Lk 1:57-66, 80) relates the birth of John the Baptist. This is a story of great joy that is mirrored in the first reading. Elizabeth’s relations, neighbours and friends were joyful and thankful to God, on hearing Elizabeth had given birth to a baby.

This is a story of hope. At first, they all thought the baby would be called after his father Zechariah, but Elizabeth said ‘No’. His name was John. The people turned to Zechariah to check out what his name should be. As Zechariah wasn’t able to speak, since the angel visited him in the Temple, he wrote down clearly the name ‘John’. As soon as he did that, he began to speak again and praised God.

The people were afraid.  John is the prophet who announces the coming of the Saviour. He calls the people of Israel to return to the Lord and repent of their sins and to be baptised. Later on, he introduced Jesus to God’s people as the Lamb of God. Throughout his life he witnessed to a simple lifestyle, self-sacrifice, humility and justice, shown in Sacred Scripture.

For many centuries, the Jewish people, the Israelites believed that God would send a Messiah to save God’s people. God already did this during the time of the Exodus from Egypt. The prophets kept the hope alive.

The story of the birth of Jesus begins with the visit of the angel to Zechariah, John’s father.   Zechariah and Elizabeth were the parents of John the Baptist. They hoped to have a child one day and they waited. Zechariah prayed. He was a priest in the Temple. Eventually, the Angel Gabriel appeared to him and answered his prayers.  Elizabeth gave birth to a baby boy. John was the forerunner to the Messiah, his cousin Jesus and son of Mary and foster son of Joseph.

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

The Grow in Love RE programme provides many resources on the life and message of St John the Baptist. These resources coupled with the liturgy of the day provides disciples with a knowledge of the life of this great Saint as Jesus said of him, ‘Among those born of women there was no man greater than John the Baptist’, as recited in the antiphon of the Evening Prayer 11 of the Solemnity.

Today children might be encouraged to recall their own birth date and Baptism. They will identify why we remember such a person as John the Baptist and what is the meaning for their lives.

John the Baptist is introduced in the Grow in Love programme as an Advent character and a special person.

From Junior Infants/P1 and following through the classes the children are taught about John, whose name means ‘The Lord has shown favour’. John is an attractive figure for children and his time in the desert is always a source of wonder to them. John lived an austere life and was single minded in his love for God.

He was the prophetic voice of God and he lived a humble life. His words about his relationship with Jesus teaches God’s people how he stood before the One who was to come. John said, ‘He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’(Jn 1:27). John was sent to prepare the way for the Lord. Disciples also are called to show others by word and deed, the way to Jesus. How can children do this among family and friends?

So from the Gospel the children recall the visit of Angel Gabriel to Zechariah (Lk 1:8-24), the Annunciation (Lk 1:26-38), and the Story of the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth (Lk 1:39-56). Elizabeth and Mary were pregnant with John and Jesus respectively. Children identify Zechariah as the priest in the Temple to whom the Angel Gabriel appeared. They also identify Mary as the one to whom the Angel Gabriel also appeared.  Of course Zechariah was afraid when the angel appeared and spoke to him. The angel told Zechariah his wife would have a baby and the baby was to be called John.

When John was born and named, Zechariah praised God in a special prayer called the ‘Benedictus’ (Lk 1:68-79). This he said, when his speech returned after he named his son John.

The Benedictus is recited by God’s people daily as part of the Morning Prayer of the Church. This prayer is included with the formal prayers in the back pages of the Children’s Grow in Love e-book.

The poem called ‘Patient People’ in Fifth Class/P7 Grow in Love programme, might link with the theme of waiting during Covid-19, while the country waits for restrictions to be lifted or  children wait to go back to school, sports, church, etc.

Today children might explore the call of John the Baptist and how he baptised Jesus in the river Jordan. They might reflect on their own call received at Baptism to share the Good News and to love and help one another.

They might pray in thanksgiving and pray that God’s people might listen to what God asks of God’s people today. They might pray for all people who celebrate their birthday today with John the Baptist.

The story of the Birth of John the Baptist is accessible in the Children’s Grow in Love e-book. Other online resources including journal activities are available on the VERITAS website to explore the life of St John the Baptist.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/ I nGrá Dé:

‘God Sends the Angel Gabriel to Zechariah’, (Lk 1:8-24), ‘The Birth of John the Baptist’ (Lk 1: 57-66), ‘Benedictus’ (Lk 1:68-79), ‘The Annunciation’, (Lk 1:26-38), ‘The Visitation’, (Lk 1:39-56).

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘They’ll Know We Are Christians By our Love’, ‘Spirit-Filled Day’, ‘Come O Long Expected Jesus’

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

The Benedictus (Lk 1:68-79)

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;

he has come to his people and set them free.

He has raised up for us a mighty Saviour,

born of the house of his servant David.

Through his holy prophets he promised of old

that he would save us from our enemies,

from the hands of all who hate us.

He promised to show mercy to our fathers

and to remember his holy covenant.

This was the oath he swore to our father

Abraham:

to set us free from the hands of our enemies,

free to worship him without fear,

holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High;

for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,

to give his people knowledge of salvation

by the forgiveness of their sins.

In the tender compassion of our God

the dawn from on high shall break upon us,

to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death,

and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

THE SECOND JOYFUL MYSTERY OF THE ROSARY, THE VISITATION

OUR FATHER X 1

HAIL MARY x 10

GLORY BE TO THE FATHER x 1

‘Zachary opened his mouth and spoke this prophecy: Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel.’(Benedictus antiphon)

The child that is born to us today is greater than any prophet: this is he of whom the Saviour said, ‘Among those born of women there was no man greater than John the Baptist.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

I thank you for the wonder of my being. (Psalm 138:14).

from LAUDATO SI’ ON ‘THE WRITINGS OF THE PROPHETS’

‘The writings of the prophets invite us to find renewed strength in times of trial by contemplating the all-powerful God who created the universe. Yet God’s infinite power does not lead us to flee his fatherly tenderness, because in him affection and strength are joined. Indeed, all sound spirituality entails both welcoming divine love and adoration, confident in the Lord because of his infinite power. In the Bible, the God who liberates and saves is the same God who created the universe, and these two divine ways of acting are intimately and inseparably connected: “Ah Lord God! It is you who made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you… You brought your people Israel out of the land of Egypt with signs and wonders” (Jer 32:17, 21). “The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless” (Is 40:28b-29). ‘(Laudato Si’, no.73).

St John the Baptist, pray for us.

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee’.

Sr Anne Neylon

‘A mighty God is the Lord; come let us adore him.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

The Golden Rule simply says, treat others as you would like them to treat you.  In life, this may not always be as easy to do as it sounds.  St Vincent de Paul’s maxim states ‘….Charity is certainly greater than any rule. Moreover, all rules must lead to charity.’

THE WORD OF GOD

The readings proclaimed at Mass today can be heard via webcam or read from the Old Testament and New Testament.

The first reading from the second Book of Kings (2 Kg 19: 9-11. 14-21. 31-36) relates how Hezekiah’s prayer really mattered to God. When Hezekiah received the letter from Sennacherib’s messengers he went up to the Temple to pray. He placed the letter before God and prayed.  He praised God saying, ‘Lord of hosts, God of Israel…you alone are God…you have made heaven and earth.’ The Chosen people were the Israelites. Hezekiah heard the insults that Sennacherib made about God so he wanted God to act, so God might be honoured. Then everyone would know how powerful God is and they would respect God. Hezekiah’s acknowledgement, ‘You alone are God’, is the focus of the prayer.

Hezekiah prayed confidently, knowing from the prophet, that God would rescue Jerusalem. So Hezekiah had faith. He believed God’s Word.

The Gospel (Mt 7:6. 12-14) continues to relate Jesus’ teaching to his disciples on love. Jesus teaches the Golden Rule, ‘So always treat others as you would like them to treat you.’

The Gospel opens with this verse, ‘Do not give what is holy to the dogs, or throw your pearls to the pigs.’ One Bible Commentary, explains this by saying; Jesus gave this advice to his disciples living in a hostile world. ‘They should not tell everything to everyone. God has given each one of us wonderful gifts: we must not share them with everyone at once, believing that it will bring them to the faith.’(Christian Community Bible 2010). The disciples must discern what is appropriate to share.

When Jesus sent his disciples on mission he instructed them to be ‘wise as serpents, and harmless as doves’ (Mt 10:16).

So disciples discern and pray to the Holy Spirit for the best way to act in situations.

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

These readings proclaimed at the celebration of Mass today aren’t included in the Grow in Love programme. As this situation occurs in the liturgy, it provides a challenge and opportunity to those who accompany children in faith, to seek what might be familiar in God’s Word daily. What might children understand in the context of the readings from what they have experienced in life, in Scripture, in prayer, in their Religious Education?

From the first reading, children can be encouraged to see that Hezekiah’s prayer mattered a lot to God. While Jesus knows our needs, he also desires the disciples to ask. He says elsewhere, ‘Ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened’ (Mt 7:7). In speaking of the wide and narrow gates Jesus asks disciples to persevere, knowing and understanding the difficulties that are in the world that cause distraction from the way of love. God asks us to stay close to Jesus and pray for oneself and others. Prayer matters.

Disciples can pray anywhere because God is ever-present in the beauty of God’s Creation. Jesus prayed outdoors by the lake, on the mountain, in people’s houses as well as the synagogue.

Pope Francis gave people the ‘Five Finger Prayer’ to remind people of this. Hezekiah went to the Temple and prayed there. Where might families pray this day?

Resources are accessible on the VERITAS website; including the Children’s e-book and accompanying online resources to revise the following; Jesus’ teaching on love; Jesus teaching on prayer; prayer and its value; The Golden Rule; The Creation Story; Prayers of the Mass; Taking time to Pray; ‘Examen’.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/ I nGrá Dé:

‘The Story of Creation’ (Gen 1: 3-5, 24-28, 31), ‘God’s Call to Abram’ (Gen 12:102, 4-7), ‘The New Commandment’ (Jn 13:34), ‘The Great Commandment’ (Lk 10:27), ‘The Golden Rule’ (Lk 6:31), ‘The Lord Appears to Samuel’ (1 Samuel 3: 2-10), ‘Hannah’s Prayer’ (1 Samuel2:1, 2), ‘Magnificat’ (Lk 1:46-55).

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘The Great Commandment’, ‘Love’, ‘Psalm 37’, ‘Psalm 148’,’ Sign of the Cross Chant’, ‘Mass Parts’, Bernard Sexton.

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

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 Naoimh, ba mhaith liom an rud ceart a dhéanamh.

Cabhraigh liom.

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

Treoraigh mé.

A Spioraid Naoimh, ba mhaith liom

guí mar a ghuigh Íosa. Múin dom é.

COME HOLY SPIRIT

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.

TAR CHUGAM, A SPIORAID NAOIMH

Tar, a Spioraid Naoimh, líon croíthe

na bhfíréan.

Agus las ionainn tine do ghrá.

Cuir amach uait do Spiorad agus

cruthófar muid,

Agus déanfaidh tú aghaidh na talún a

athnuachan.

A Dhia, a mhúin croíthe na bhfíréan

Le solas an Spioraid Naoimh,

Deonaigh dúinn sa Spiorad céanna a bheith críonna go fíor,

Agus gairdeas a dhéanamh I gcónaí ina shólás,

Trí Chríost, ár dTiarna. Áiméan.

‘Lord, save us from the hands of all who hate us us.’(Benedictus antiphon)

‘When Zachary had entered the temple of the Lord, the angel Gabriel appeared to him, standing on the right of the altar of incense.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

God upholds his city forever. (Psalm 47:9).

from LAUDATO SI’ ON ‘TILLING AND KEEPING THE EARTH’

‘The biblical texts are to be read in their context, with an appropriate hermeneutic, recognising that they tell us to “till and keep” the garden of the world (cf. Gen 2:15). “Tilling” refers to cultivating, ploughing or working, while “keeping” means caring, protecting, overseeing and preserving. This implies a relationship of mutual responsibility between human beings and nature. (Laudato Si’, no. 67).

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.

Sr Anne Neylon

St Paulinus of Nola, (355-431) bishop

Ss John Fisher (1469-1535), bishop and Thomas More (1478-1535), martyrs

‘Let us rejoice in the Lord; with songs let us praise him.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

The minute’s silence held yesterday in honour of Detective Garda Colm Horkan was an emotional moment for all who engaged.

Later, this man was ‘described as one of nature’s gentlemen’ during the homily delivered by Monsignor Tommy Johnston, at Colm Horkan’s funeral Mass in  St James’ Church, Charlestown, Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Words used to describe Colm included, gentleness, respect, dedicated and diligent. His service in his work as a Detective was noted. Listeners heard that Colm ‘was a man of service, loved his life as a guard and gave it his complete commitment.’ The general public is left in no doubt about how Colm was so valued in his family and parish community and also his generous contribution to the life of others.

The Word of God was important to Detective Garda Colm Horkan. He was a Minister of the Word in St James’ Church, Charlestown, where he was baptised, received his First Eucharist, Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Colm had faith and trust in God and witnessed to God’s love in his work and as a kind and generous neighbour. Colm valued the work of justice and died in the line of duty; keeping people safe and protecting them.  May Colm’s soul rest in peace.

THE WORD OF GOD

The readings proclaimed at Mass today can be heard via webcam or read from the Old and New Testament.

The first reading from the second Book of Kings (2 Kg 17:5-8, 13-15, 18) tells of God, full of love rescued God’s people from slavery in Egypt. God made a covenant with the people and gave the Ten Commandments to Moses to help them keep the covenant. However the people turned away from God and turned towards other gods. They didn’t live the life God desired for them. They followed their own way. Moreover, they wouldn’t listen and remained stubborn.

The Gospel (Mt 7:1-5) teaches the disciples about exercising good judgements in life. Jesus calls the disciples to love one another as he as loved them; and by this everyone would know who were his disciples. Jesus continually taught about the dignity of every person and how precious each person is in God’s eyes.  Disciples continue to love one another and to pray for one another as Jesus teaches.

God wants to take first place in the disciples’ lives and hearts. The living God, the God of love is the source of life for the disciples and of God’s creation. God gives life to those who serve God’s people by following Jesus’ way of love. Disciples are called to live justly in building up God’s kingdom daily.

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

These readings proclaimed at the celebration of Mass today aren’t included in the Grow in Love programme. When this occurs, it provides a challenge and opportunity to those who accompany children in faith to seek what might be familiar in God’s Word for the day. What might children understand in the context of the readings from what they have experienced in life, in Scripture, in prayer, in their Religious Education?

From the first reading, children recognise the reference to God’s people being led from Egypt to the Promised Land. They can be encouraged to chat about the call of Moses; the task God gave to Moses; the covenant God made with God’s people; the Ten Commandments; the journey through the desert and its challenges; about the people who listened at first and then turned away from God. They might hear in the reading that the people were stubborn and they didn’t respect God’s law.

After this, they might reflect on their own lives and quietly invite God into their hearts and ask God to help them to listen to their Mams and Dads and those who are guiding them. They might think of times they were very willing to do what they were asked to do and then there were occasions they recall that they might have been stubborn. They might pray in thanks to God for their friend Jesus. They might be encouraged to read the story of Moses in the Bible.

Children preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation or those who have received the Sacrament might tune into the word judgement. They might recall the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and the gift of Right Judgement. They are taught that the gift of Right Judgement is also called the gift of Counsel. They are taught that, ‘Through the gift of Right Judgement the Holy Spirit inspires and guides Christians to make the right decisions and to do the right thing.’ Children might revise the lessons on the Sacrament of Confirmation in Fifth Class/P7 and Sixth Class. They might reflect on decisions they have made recently.

The children identify situations in their lives where it is difficult to make right judgement in situations, especially due to peer pressure. They explore the ways they can make good choices and the role the Holy Spirit plays in helping them do what is right. They understand that our human nature doesn’t always lead us to make good choices so people need help to make some choices. People need not be afraid to ask for help in discerning choices. The Holy Spirit is the helper.

The children are taught too that Jesus calls us to love and respect God, oneself, one’s neighbour and the environment. God created each one and loves each person unconditionally. God invites us to love, not to make judgements about others or to condemn them. The images of splinters and planks, though literal images, make good conversation for the children. In yesterday’s Gospel, Jesus told the disciples they ‘are worth more than many sparrows.’ (Mt 10:31). He also told them that God knows them so well ‘that even the hairs on their head have been counted.’

Jesus understands that sometimes people turn away from God’s ways and follow their own stubborn ways. He is always ready to forgive those who repent and he welcomes them into his loving heart. Disciples choose with the help of the Holy Spirit to the way of hope, trust and understanding of God’s love.

Resources are accessible on the VERITAS website; including the Children’s e-book and accompanying online resources to revise the following; The Story of Moses; The Passover Meal; The Sacrament of Confirmation; The Gifts of the Holy Spirit; Jesus teaching on Love and Forgiveness.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/ I nGrá Dé:

‘Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples’ (John 21:1-14), ‘Parable of the Real Vine’ (John 15: 1, 4-5, 7-10, 16-17), ‘Zephaniah’ ( Zephaniah 3:17-8), (Matthew 10:29-31), ‘The Beatitudes’ (Mt 5:3-12),’ The Woman Caught in Adultery’ ( Jn 8:1-11), ‘Parable of the Prodigal Son’ ( Lk 15:11-32), ‘The Coming of the Holy Spirit’ ( Acts of the Apostles 2:1-8, 11-12, 14, 22, 32-33, 38, 41-2),

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘Grow in Love’, ‘Beginning Today’, ‘I watch the Sunrise’, ‘Our God is an Awesome God’, ‘Bible Rap’, ‘Creation Story’, ‘Love’, ‘God has Given Us The Earth’.

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

ACT OF SORROW

O my God, I thank you for loving me.

I am sorry for all my sins, for not loving

others and not loving you.

Help me to live like Jesus and not sin again. Amen.

GNíOMH DÓLÁIS

A Dhia, gabhaim buíochas leat as ucht do ghrá dom.

Ta brón orm faoi mo pheacaí uile:

Nach raibh grá agam duitse ná do dhaoine eile.

Cabhraigh liom mo shaol a chaitheamh

ar nós Íosa agus gan peaca a dhéanamh arís.

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.

Áiméan.

‘Blessed be the Lord for he has visited us and freed us.’(Benedictus antiphon)

‘Let my soul proclaim your greatness forever, O my God.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

Hear us, O Lord, and help us.’(Psalm 59:7)

from LAUDATO SI’ AND ‘UNCHECKED HUMAN ACTIVITY’

‘In 1971, eight years after Pacem in Terris, Blessed Pope Paul VI referred to the ecological concern as “a tragic consequence” of unchecked human activity: “Due to an ill-considered exploitation of nature, humanity runs the risk of destroying it and becoming in turn a victim of this degradation”. ’ (Laudato Si’, no. 4).

St Paulinus of Nola, pray for us.

Ss John Fisher and Thomas More, pray for us.

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.’

Sr Anne Neylon

‘We are the people of the Lord, the flock that is led by his hand: come let us adore him, alleluia.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

Happy Father’s Day! Today, this festive day is celebrated throughout the country and on various days in many parts of the world all throughout the year, often in the months of March, May and June. The celebration acknowledges ‘fatherhood and paternal bonds, as well as the influence of fathers in society.’  Celebrations are as unique as each family. Seamus O’Rourke writer, director, poet and actor had one of his poems read on RTE radio recently. It was about his father and a worthwhile read in honour of Father’s Day. Let’s remember fathers, living and deceased.

The readings proclaimed at Mass today can be heard via webcam or read from the Old and New Testament.

The first reading from the prophet Jeremiah (Jer 20:10-13) proclaims how Jeremiah is rejected and denounced because he speaks about his personal mission which the people do not accept. Jeremiah remains steadfast because the Lord, ‘a mighty hero’ is at his side. Jeremiah declares he has ‘committed my [his] cause to you.’ The prophet is not afraid because the prophet trusts in God’s Word and presence.

As stated in Scripture for Evening Prayer 1 of the Church, ‘… For no prophetic message ever came from the will of man, but men were carried along by the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God.’ (2 Peter 1: 19-20).

The second reading from St Paul’s letter to the Romans (Rm 5: 12-15) offers hope, that Jesus has come not only to recognise sinners but the whole of humanity.

The Gospel (Mt 10:26-33) proclaims that if the disciples acknowledge Jesus, he in turn will acknowledge them before his Father in heaven. Jesus puts himself on the same level as the Father. If the disciples do not acknowledge Jesus, Jesus will not acknowledge them before the Father. Jesus invites us to live as people of faith and to proclaim the Good News in words and by doing good deeds. Jesus says ‘do not be afraid’.

Just as disciples acknowledge Mary as Our Mother in Heaven, they can lovingly call God, Our Father, and source of all life. Disciples pray the ‘Our Father’, the prayer Jesus taught his disciples.

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

None of these readings from Mass today are included in the Grow in Love programme, though children grow in the understanding that God is love. This experience of love is first found in the family, among friends, in the parish community and in the school. Children experience the love and beauty of God in relationships of love, friendship and the wonder of nature.

Children today enjoy this day of celebration for their Dads’, grandad, uncle or guardian. They might pray for all Dads and light a virtual candle accessible on the VERITAS website. They might pray thank you to God our Father in heaven. St Joseph was Jesus’ foster father. They might chat about his role in the family life at Nazareth.

The children are introduced to the prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah and they recognise that the prophet speaks the Word of God. On many occasions prophets are not listened to by the people, especially those close to them. They are urged on in their mission by God, who promises to support them. The prophet stands up for what is right and just. God’s people are called to be prophets of God’s Word. They need not be afraid because Jesus promised to be with them always to the end of time.

As children grow in faith and in God’s love they are hopeful of God’s promises. God raised Jesus to new life at the Resurrection and this is our hope. Jesus loves his disciples and forgives them their sins.

God sent Jesus into the world to proclaim the Good News. Children recognise that the Good News is that God loves God’s people with a very special love. They are taught that the Trinity is a communion of persons who live in a loving relationship. The Trinity is the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. God desires that the disciples pray to the persons of the Trinity and that they honour the three persons. Children explore the formal prayers taught to them and identify prayers addressed to the Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Children spend time in prayer and reflecting on God’s Word and they explore its meaning for their lives. For instance, on reading verses from Psalm 136, they read that God’s love is eternal. This phrase ‘his love is eternal’ is repeated throughout the psalm. Children recognise that God’s love is theirs forever and ever. Their response is to say thank you to God.

The Father sent Jesus so those who follow and believe may have eternal life with God in heaven. God desires that all may enjoy everlasting life.

Resources are accessible on the VERITAS website; including the Children’s e-book and accompanying online resources.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/ I nGrá Dé:

‘The New Commandment’ (John 13: 34-5), ‘God is Love’ ((1 John 4:7-8), ‘Psalm 136:1, 5-9, 26),  ‘Jesus asked his followers to help others to know him’ (Matthew 28:19-20), ‘Psalm 18:2’, ‘Psalm 23’, ‘Psalm 31:14-5’, ‘The Preaching of John the Baptist’ (Lk 3:3, 15-16).

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘Grow in Love’; ‘Sign of the Cross Chant’; ‘Love’, ‘Whatsoever You Do’, ‘Go Tell Everyone’, ‘Our God is an Awesome God’

PRAY from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

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.

GRACE BEFORE MEALS

Bless us, O God, as we sit

together.

Bless the food we eat today.

Bless the hands that made the

food.

Bless us, O God. Amen.

GRACE AFTER MEALS

Thank you, God, for the food

we have eaten.

Thank you, God for all our friends.

Thank you, God, for everything.

Thank you, God. Amen.

ALTÚ ROIMH BHIA

Beannacht ó Dhia orainne atá ag suí

chun boird le chéile.

Beannacht ar an mbia a ithimid inniu.

Beannacht ar na lámha a d’ullmhaigh

dúinn é.

Beannacht a Dhia dílis orainn féin.

Áiméan.

ALTÚ TARÉIS BIA

Go raibh maith agat, a Dhia, mar is tú a

thug bia dúinn.

Go raibh maith agat, a Dhia, mar is tú a

thug cairde dúinn.

Go raibh maith agat, a Dhia, mar is tú a

thug gach rud dúinn.

Go raibh maith agat, a Dhia. Áiméan.

‘Save us, Lord, we are in danger God, give the command, and there will be peace.’(Benedictus antiphon)

‘If any man wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross, and in that way, he must follow me.’ (Magnificat antiphon)

‘In your great love, answer me, O God.’(Psalm 68:14)

ABOUT Laudato Si’

‘Care for nature is part of a lifestyle which includes the capacity for living together and communion. Jesus reminded us that we have God as our common Father and that this makes us brothers and sisters. Fraternal love can only be gratuitous; it can never be a means of repaying others for what they have done or will do for us.  ’ (Laudato Si’, no. 228).

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.’

St Joseph, please pray for all fathers.

Sr Anne Neylon

Optional memorial of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary,

Optional memorial of the Irish Martyrs,

‘The Lord’s is the earth and its fulness: come, let us adore him.’ (Invitatory antiphon).

The early days of Covid-19 were a serious source of stress for everyone, in particular families of those working on the front line. There was a sense of unknowing what to do and what might happen next. Very quickly with good, quick thinking and organisation, the Government imposed restrictions and social distancing.  Generally, people conformed to what they were asked to do. Life continues.

The Church also acted promptly in the pandemic and called people to prayer.  Archbishop Eamon Martin invited priests and bishops to join with him in consecrating Ireland and her people to the Immaculate Heart of Mary for protection from the coronavirus. The special prayer was ‘The Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary’ and was to be said on 25^th March 2020, after the Angelus. He also called for the novena prayer to be said for nine days from Saint Patrick’s Day (17-25 March, 2020). Pope Francis also called the people to pray in solidarity daily for individuals and groups of people throughout the panic. Everyone is included. This prayer was held on the 25th March, Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord.

Today, following the celebration of the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Church celebrates the memorial of The Immaculate Heart of Mary. This is a devotional name used to refer to the interior life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, her joys and sorrows, her virtues and her whole being. It also includes her love for God the Father, her love for Jesus and her protective and compassionate love for all God’s people.

ABOUT THE DEVOTION TO THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY

The devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary is based on Scripture. The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:35) relates that Mary’s heart would be pierced with a sword. In St Luke’s Gospel (Lk 2: 1-52) the evangelist reports that Mary kept all things in her heart, that there, she might ponder over them.

Traditionally, the image of the Immaculate Heart is depicted pierced with a sword. Flowers or roses may be wrapped around the heart.

Today’s readings from the prophet Isaiah (61:9-11) and the Gospel (Lk 2: 41-51) are proclaimed at Mass via the webcam or read from the Old and New Testament.

In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah rejoices in his love for God because God brings justice and praise to the nations.

In the Gospel, the story of Jesus in the Temple sitting among the teachers and the doctors of the law is proclaimed. Jesus went with his parents to Jerusalem to celebrate the feast of Passover. He didn’t go home to Nazareth with them, but they found him three days later in the Temple.

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

Neither the memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary nor the memorial of the Irish Martyrs are included in the Grow in Love programme. That gives families and parish personnel an opportunity to draw from the readings what might be familiar to the children.

The reading from the prophet Isaiah points the children to the value of justice and the virtue of joy. This Gospel story proclaimed today is introduced in First Class/P3. Needless to say, there are countless conversations among the children on how Jesus went missing for three days! To them, according to the norms of Child Protection, it seems very negligent on the part of the parents/ guardian to arrive home without their son from the festival.

Children might read this Gospel of the day (Lk 2:41-51) from the Bible or e-book.

The Fifth Joyful Mystery of the Rosary is the Finding of Jesus in the Temple. There might be a time to pray that decade of the Rosary.

The Prayer of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary refers to Mary as Queen of Ireland, Loving Mother, Mother of Divine Love, Blessed Mother, and a Naomh Mhuire, a Mháthair Dé. These titles for Mary might be explored with children.

In the senior classes children, among other feast days are taught about the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated on 8 December annually. They recognise that Mary was born free from original sin. This could prompt a chat about the sacrament of Baptism and chat about children’s Baptism. They are taught that sin is a break in relationship with God and with self, their neighbour or the environment.

Mary, Mother of God takes a very prominent role in the Grow in Love programme. Children are introduced to all the Mysteries of the Rosary, Sacred Scripture, and Hymns, Mary’s apparitions at Knock, Lourdes and Guadalupe. They are introduced to the icons of Our Lady of Czestochowa and Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

Children are taught a variety prayers to Mary. They recognise Mary as the first disciple as she leads them to her Son, Jesus. They identify Mary as a loving, kind, obedient, caring, faith filled, courageous, humble, hopeful, decisive, and just woman. They begin to honour Mary as Mother of God and Our Mother.

Many resources are accessible on the VERITAS website to support the Marian theme.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

‘The Finding of Jesus in the Temple’ (Lk 2:41-51).

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘A Mhuire Mháthair’, ‘When Creation was Begun’, ‘The Bells of the Angelus’, ‘Mary’, Mary Our Mother’

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

THE FIFTH JOYFUL MYSTERY OF THE ROSARY

THE FINDING OF JESUS IN THE TEMPLE

OUR FATHER X 1

HAIL MARY x 10

GLORY BE TO THE FATHER x 1

THE ANGELUS (pray outside the Easter season)

The Angel of the Lord declared unto

Mary,

and she conceived of the Holy Spirit.

Hail Mary, etc…

Behold the handmaid of the Lord.

Be it done unto me according to Your Word.

Hail Mary, etc…

And the Word was made flesh,

And dwelt among us.

Hail Mary, etc…

Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.

That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Lord,

fill our hearts with your love,

and as you revealed to us by the message of an angel,

the coming of your Son as man,

so lead us through his suffering and

death,

to the glory of his resurrection,

for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

one God for ever and ever . Amen.

FÁILTE DON AINGIL

Thainig aingeal an Tiarna le scéala chun Muire,

agus ghabh sí ón Spiorad Naomh.

‘S é do bheatha, a Mhuire…

Féach, mise banóglach an Tiarna,

go ndéantar dom de réir d’fhocail.

‘S é do bheatha, a Mhuire…

Agus ghlac an Briathar colainn

dhaonna,

agus chónaigh sé inár measc.

‘S é do bheatha, a Mhuire…

Guigh orainn, a Naomh- Mháthair Dé

ionas go mb’fhiú sinn geallúna

Chríost.

A Thiarna,

líon ár gcroíthe le do ghrá,

agus faoi mar a nocht tú dúinn trí

aingeal

teacht do mhic I gcolainn dhaonna,

treoraigh sinn, dá bhrí sin, trína

fhulaingt agus a bhás

go glóire a aiséirí,

mar is é a mhaireann agus a rialaíonn

in éineacht leatsa

agus leis an Spiorad Naomh,

Aon Dia, trí shaol na saol. Áiméan.

‘Give your light Lord, to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death.’ (Benedictus antiphon).

‘If anyone bears witness to me before men, I will also bear witness to him in the presence of my Father.’ (Magnificat antiphon).

‘I will keep my love for him always.’ (Psalm 88 :2).

From Laudato Si’

‘Mary, the Mother who cared for Jesus, now cares with maternal affection and pain for this wounded world. Just as her pierced heart mourned the death of Jesus, so now she grieves for the sufferings of the crucified poor and for the creatures of this world laid waste by human power. Completely transfigured, she now lives with Jesus, and all creatures sing of her fairness…. She treasures the entire life of Jesus in her heart (cf. Lk 2:19, 51), and now understands the meaning of all things. Hence, we can ask her to enable us to look at this world with eyes of wisdom.’ (Laudato Si’, no. 241).

ABOUT THE IRISH MARTYRS

Seventeen Irish martyrs, men and women, cleric and lay, put to death for the Catholic faith between 1579 and 1654, were beatified by Pope John Paul 11 in 1992. We intercede through them for the people of Ireland and for Christians who suffer for their belief.

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.’

Sr Anne Neylon

‘The heart of Jesus was wounded for love of us: come let us adore him.’ (Invitatory antiphon).

During this time of pandemic many gestures of love are shown by individuals, organisations, families, neighbours, relations, businesses and friends. The Post Office also shows a gesture of love, by offering the public, post-cards to send messages to their loved ones. The message on one printed card reads ‘Sending Love’ Come Together (Tar le chéile), Write Now (Scríobh anois) #Write Now (# Scríobh anois). These can be sent free to anyone in Ireland and can be picked up at any local post office.

On this day the Church invites God’s people to reflect on and to pray to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, whose heart flows with God’s love and mercy for all people. What a great gift to receive at this opportune moment.

Today’s readings from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deut 7:6-11), the first Letter of St John (1 John 4: 7-16) and the Gospel (Mt 11:25-30) are proclaimed at Mass via the webcam or read from the Old and New Testament.

The first reading from the Book of Deuteronomy proclaims God’s love. God’s people are consecrated to God. They are chosen to be God’s people from all the people on earth. They are chosen because God loves them. God showed God’s love for them by bringing them from slavery in Egypt and releasing them from the power of Pharaoh. God is true and faithful and keeps the covenant. God instructs the people to keep the commandments, that means loving God and loving one’s neighbour.

The second reading encourages God’s people to love one another as God loves God’s people.

In the Gospel, Jesus prays to God his Father and praises God for revealing God’s self to all people, not just to ‘the wise and learned.’ Jesus acknowledges his intimate and unique relationship with his Father, who has entrusted everything to Jesus. Only Jesus can reveal the Father to those whom he chooses.

Jesus invites all those who are carrying heavy burdens to come to him to be refreshed. He encourages the disciples in their mission of discipleship. Jesus comforts them by inviting them to ‘learn from him’, because he says, ‘I am gentle and humble of heart.’

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

Many families show devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. They may have a statue of the Sacred Heart at home or an image of the Sacred Heart and light a candle and pray. Others may have never heard of this devotion.  This is a very attractive feast as the readings are so filled with the universal, bountiful and lavish love of Jesus. Jesus draws those who desire into his loving heart to share in this love.

Children reflect on the experience of love in their personal lives as they communicate with family and friends. Loving gestures and acts of kindness are encouraged in homes, parishes and schools each day. God’s love is expressed in concrete ways. Children begin to appreciate God’s love in God’s Creation. They reflect on the wonders of nature and the loving events of life. They begin to show gratitude and praise while they grow in trust. Gratitude fosters love.

Children recognise that God with great love sent Jesus on earth to proclaim the Good News to God’s people. Jesus healed the sick, forgave sinners and set people free from what stopped them loving God. Children recognise too that they are chosen and blessed by God in many ways. By their Baptism they identify their mission as partaking in Jesus’ mission.

Once again, children are prompted to recall the story of Moses and how he was called to lead God’s people from slavery into the Promised Land. God protected the people all the way.

Through reading Scripture, both Old and New Testament children are taught the various attributes of God. God protects, loves, shares, is true, faithful and compassionate. Jesus came to earth to show God’s people how good God is and Jesus showed the way of love. He also taught the way of love in the new commandment and the Great commandment.

God asked the people to keep the commandments. Children might revise the Ten Commandments and chat about their meaning for their lives. God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses. These commandments help disciples to live in freedom as they strive to love God and one another and the environment.

In the Gospel the children read that Jesus prayed to his Father. In praying to him, Jesus praised him. Children too can praise and thank God for his love and care. Jesus had a special relationship with the Father and children are taught that Jesus draws us all into this love, into his heart. Jesus teaches all who believe about the Father.  Jesus encourages the disciples to follow him and bring their burdens to him. Jesus is ‘gentle and humble of heart.’ He calls the children and disciples also to gentleness and humility.

Children also recall the Crucifixion of Jesus and how when he was pierced with a spear, blood and water flowed from his side. Jesus is our Redeemer and Saviour. Jesus rose to new life and this is our hope.

The blood and water are symbols of the sacraments of Eucharist and Baptism.

In the Divine Mercy image seen by St Faustina, the blood and water rays are visible.

Today children are encouraged to reflect on the life of Jesus – his life, death and resurrection. The statue of the Sacred Heart is situated in many parish churches. People like to light a candle to the Sacred Heart and ask for help for a certain person or situation. People nationally and internationally, believe in the love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Many schools and institutions and Religious Congregations take the Sacred Heart as their Patron.

A popular prayer people say is, ‘O Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You.’

As children grow in the love of Jesus, they learn to trust more and more in his compassion and mercy.

Resources on the VERITAS website are available ‘to support the mystery of Christ’s birth, death and resurrection.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

‘God Calls Moses’ (Ex 3:1-16), ‘The Covenant at Sinai’ (Ex 19:3-8), ‘The Ten Commandments’ (Exodus 20:1-17), ‘Psalm 139:1-6, 13-16’, ‘Jeremiah 31:33-4’, ‘Jesus Heals a man with a paralysed hand’ ( Mt 12:9-14), ‘Jesus is the Messiah’ ( Lk 4:16-22), ‘The Road to Emmaus’ (Lk 24).

ACT OF SPIRITUAL COMMUNION

My Jesus, I believe that You are in the Blessed Sacrament.

I love You above all things, and I long for You in my soul.

Since I cannot now receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart.

As though You have already come, I embrace You and unite myself entirely to You;

never permit me to be separated from You.

Amen.

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘Grow in Love’, ‘Take Off Your Shoes’, ‘The Great Commandment’, ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’, ‘Céad Míle Fáilte Romhat’, ‘Close to You’, ‘ Bible Rap’, ‘Song for a young prophet’, ‘Love’, ‘The Summons’.

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

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.

‘In his tender mercy God has visited us; he has redeemed his people, alleluia.’ (Benedictus antiphon).

‘The Lord has received us into his own self, into his heart, remembering his mercy.’ (Magnificat antiphon).

‘The love of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold him in fear.’ (Psalm 102:17).

‘Love, overflowing with small gestures of mutual care, is also civic and political, and it makes itself felt in every action that seeks to build a better world. Love for society and commitment to the common good are outstanding expressions of a charity which affects not only relationships between individuals but also “macro-relationships, social, economic and political ones” That is why the Church set before the world the ideal of a “civilization of love”’ (Laudato Si’, no. 231).

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You.

Jesus, I trust in You.

Sr Anne Neylon

‘Come, let us adore the Lord, for he is our God.’ (Invitatory antiphon).

It might be worthwhile to explore this phrase ‘less is more.’ Perhaps as the restrictions due to Covid-19 are lightened, it is an appropriate time to evaluate what became less available to citizens during lockdown and thus provided more of something better e.g. less shopping, more money; less driving, more walking; less working hours, more SMART work; less commuting, more family time; less junk food, more home cooked meals; less carbon footprint, more fresh air; and less socialising, more personal time. In having less, one can create a life of more.

Today’s readings from Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) (Eccles, Sir 48:1-14) and the Gospel (Mt 6:7-15) are proclaimed at Mass via the webcam or read from the Old and New Testament.

The first reading compliments Elijah and Elisha.

The Gospel proclaims the prayer Jesus taught to the disciples, ‘Our Father’. Jesus directly tells the disciples how to pray-no need to babble or use lots of words. Less is more. The value of prayer lies in the faith and love of God. It is possible that when persons pray to God saying the ‘Our Father’ they can identify that lift their hearts, souls and minds to God as Father and friend; to a God who loves each one unconditionally, always waiting for the person’s attention and presence and to share a silent moment or a gaze of love. To pray is not so much to use many words but to do recognise God’s love and surrender to God’s will. The ‘Our Father’ incorporates everything that is needed in prayer. Prayer is communication with God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit – verbal and non-verbal.

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

Prayer is an integral part of the Grow in Love programme. Faith is nourished by prayer. Through prayer children can explore their relationship with God. Children are invited to appreciate God’s presence in their lives and they are invited to take a moment to chat and listen to God as they would their friend or their parent/guardian.  Children are provided with many opportunities for prayer throughout each lesson.

Prayer is much more than saying prayers. Prayer is raising one’s heart and mind to God.

Formal prayers provide the language for prayer and also enable children to pray as a group, answer Mass responses or pray for common intentions. Children light the virtual candle daily  in school and pray for personal or class needs or those of the world.

On reaching Sixth class children have been taught all the formal prayers required. As children are taught these prayers, they identify to whom they are praying, the Father, Son and/or the Holy Spirit. The children are taught new prayers by saying them line by line and are taught to take one phrase and reflect on it.

Children pray to God in different ways and different times. Sometimes they offer a prayer of thanksgiving, a prayer of intercession, a prayer of sorrow, or a prayer of adoration.

Children are encouraged to pray with their families at home.  In the ‘Our Father’, the children are taught that God is our Father; God’s name is holy; they pray for God’s Kingdom of love, joy and peace to be a reality in their lives; that each one may do God’s will on earth and in heaven. The children then are taught that they ask God for daily bread, that which will sustain them; they ask for forgiveness for themselves and to grant forgiveness to others; they ask God not to allow them to be led into temptation; and to be delivered from evil. They end the prayer by saying Amen.

This great prayer can be sung and gestures can be used to enhance its meaning. Children learn that singing is a form of prayer. Children explore how doing acts of love and being selfless is also a form of prayer.

Children pray and reflect on the psalms. They identify that sometimes those who prayed the psalms felt very loving, joyful and thankful to God. Sometimes they expressed their anger and at other times their fear. God understands all our feelings and continues to seek each person out in love.

Children recognise that prayer is a very essential part of daily life and they reflect on the prayer life of the saints.

At different points in the Liturgical year they engage in a wide variety of prayers. They can pray alone or with others; with words or without words. They keep a prayer journal.

Children are introduced to a prayer space and the value of having an atmosphere of prayer in which to pray. They form the habit of praying before meals and after meals and at regular times through the day.

Children are offered opportunities to mediate, to reflect and to acquire the skills of contemplation. By doing such exercises as Lectio Divina and Visio Divina they learn to pray with Scripture.

Jesus teaches us to pray by praying to his Father. Children also pray to Mary and they are taught her great song of praise ‘The Magnificat.’

Resources on the VERITAS website are available on Prayer and all prayers are accessible in the Children’s Grow in Love e-book.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

‘Our Father’ (Mt 6:7-15), ‘Benedictus’ (Lk 1:68-79), ‘The Magnificat’ (Lk 1: 46-55).

SING from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé:

‘Our Father’, ‘Spirit –Filled Day’, ‘O Sacrament Most Holy’, ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’, ‘Jesus remember Me’, ‘Wherever You Go’, ‘Creation Story’.

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

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 atá ar neamh,

Go naofar d-ainm,

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

Mar a dhéantar ar neamh.

Ár narán laethúil tabhair dúinn inniu,

Agus maith dúinn ár bhfiacha,

Mar a mhaithimindne dár bhféachúna

féin,

Is ná lig sinn i gcathú,

Ach saor sinn ó olc. Áiméan.

‘Let us serve the Lord in holiness, and he will deliver us from the hands of our enemies.’ (Benedictus antiphon).

‘I have come to spread fire on earth, and how I wish it were blazing already.’ (Magnificat antiphon).

‘Rejoice, you just in the Lord.’ (Psalm 96:12).

‘… we Christians ask for inspiration to take up the commitment to creation set before us by the Gospel of Jesus.’ (Laudato Si’, no. 246).

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.’

Sr Anne Neylon

‘Let us adore the Lord, for it is he who made us.’ (Invitatory antiphon).

‘Never let your left hand know what your right hand is doing’; this is a popular phrase used in different contexts. In the Biblical sense it means, ‘doing good for God alone.’

St Louise de Marillac, co-foundress of the Daughters of Charity with St Vincent de Paul (1633) and Patroness of Christian Social Workers, was ever conscious of the presence of Jesus Christ in the person of the poor. She urged the Sisters in their serving others, to do so with ‘gentleness and respect.’ She warned them of ‘troublesome self-love’ cautioning them that ‘it causes us to lose our perspective and even at time to forget God.’

God provides many opportunities for people to serve Godself in the person of the poor. God wants the hearts and the love of those who serve God by practicing God’s ‘goodness, gentleness and charity towards their neighbour.’

St Louise taught the Sisters that one’s life may be solely for Jesus and for one’s neighbour so that, ‘by means of this unifying love, I may love all that Jesus loves.’

That gave meaning to St Louise’s prayer, fasting and almsgiving in secret, as today’s Gospel proclaims.

The reading from the second Book of Kings (2 Kings 2:1, 6-14) and the Gospel (Mt 6:1-6) are proclaimed at Mass via webcam or read in the Old and New Testament.

The first reading tells how Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind.

In the Gospel Jesus teaches the disciple the spirit of working for God alone. In Jesus’ eyes, the disciple does everything for God and keeps God at the centre of their lives. Disciples should not be seen to be praying, doing a fast or giving alms or parading their good deeds. This would make them look like hypocrites. Their left hand must not know what their right hand is doing. It suffices that God alone will see the good work that goes on. In his humility and selflessness, Jesus models this for the disciples.

SEEK GOD’S LOVE IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

This Scripture (Mt 6:1-6) is included in the Grow in Love programme for Third Class/P5, in the lesson entitled, ‘Jesus the Teacher’. Children are taught that the first time people heard Jesus speak in public was when he was in the synagogue reading the words (Lk 4:18-9) from the prophet Isaiah. This leads children to identify Jesus as the anointed one, the Christ, the promised Messiah for whom people have been waiting.

Jesus does not come with power, authority and might but he comes humbly and confidently, as one of the people, a carpenter’s son from a nondescript place called Nazareth. Jesus explains to the people what his mission is, what he is about. As a teacher he proclaims the Good News about the Kingdom of God being near. This is the mission in which the disciples will share. Children identify that mission as theirs also as they follow the way of Jesus.

The children are taught that Jesus was a Jew and was brought up in the Jewish faith. He was like any other child of his time. He lived in a family, prayed, played, went to school, heard and read stories from the Hebrew and he worshipped in the synagogue. He celebrated the Jewish festivals and feasts. He loved God the Father and prayed to him. He taught his disciples to pray the Our Father. Today children might be encouraged to pray Our Father/Ár nAthair.

In First Class P/3, Third Class/P5, Fifth Class children are taught about the Jewish faith tradition.

Children read about Jesus attending the Jewish Festival of Passover with his family and neighbours. As well as teaching the people in the synagogue, Jesus taught them in the fields, beside the lake, in the boat, and on the mountains.  He continues to teach his disciples. Children recall such places where Jesus taught and they recall what he taught about prayer, fasting, forgiveness, almsgiving, love and the Kingdom of God. They discuss how Jesus continues to teach, what he teaches and where this happens.

Some people believed in the teachings of Jesus but not everyone did.

In first century Palestine, Rabbi was the title given to a teacher who taught in a synagogue. The rabbi was an expert on the Torah, the Jewish sacred scripture, could decide Jewish law and could lead the Jewish people in prayer. Jesus was frequently called Rabbi.

The children explore what Jesus taught about prayer, fasting and almsgiving and why it was in secret.

They explore the word secret in terms of not hiding but being humble and not showing off.

They reflect on the experiences of prayer, almsgiving and fasting in their lives. They will not always pray in secret because on occasion they will pray with others. Sometimes almsgiving and fasting are associated with the Lenten season but times of fasting and abstinence are part of the Church teaching throughout the Liturgical Year. Children reflect on what happens in their lives when they pray, fast and give alms. What does this teach disciples? Why do disciples do this? Why does Jesus ask disciples to do this?

In inter religious education children will learn about the Jewish and Islam traditions of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.

Children are introduced to the lives of the saints at each level of the Grow in Love programme.

St Louise de Marillac is included.

Resources on the VERITAS website support the prayer, fasting and almsgiving of the Jewish, Christian and Islam faith traditions.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

READ from Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

‘Do everything for God Alone’ (Mt 6:1-6), ‘The Mission of Jesus’ (Lk 4:18-9)

SING:

‘The Summons’, ‘The Servant Song’, ‘Go Tell Everyone’, ‘Who Do You Say That I Am?’

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

ST PATRICK’S BREASTPLATE

Christ be with me,

Christ be beside me,

Christ be before me,

Christ be behind me,

Christ be at my right hand,

Christ be at my left hand,

Christ be with me, wherever I go,

Christ be my friend forever and ever.

Amen.

LÚIREACH PHÁDRAIG

Críost liom.

Críost romham.

Críost I mo dhiaidh.

Críost ionam.

Críost ar mo lámh dheas.

Críost ar mo lámh chlé.

Críost I mo chuideachta is cuma cá dtéim.

Críost mar chara agam, anois go buan. Áiméan.

‘Show us your mercy, O Lord; remember your holy covenant.’ (Benedictus antiphon).

‘The Almighty has done great things for me; Holy is his name.’ (Magnificat antiphon).

‘Let your heart take courage; all who hope in the Lord.’ (Psalm 30:25).

“If we scan the regions of our planet, we immediately see that humanity has disappointed God’s expectations.”’ (Laudato Si’, no. 61).

‘O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.’

Sr Anne Neylon

‘The Lord is a great king: come let us adore him.’ (Invitatory antiphon)

In a recent interview on RTE radio, Kerry Kennedy, daughter of Senator Robert F. Kennedy (1925-1968), spoke of her father and her reaction at the time to his sudden and shocking death. She also spoke about her work as a human rights activist and writer. Continuing her father’s work for Human Rights, Kerry is President of R.F. Kennedy Human Rights, a non-profit human rights advocacy organisation.

Kerry was eight years old and woke very early on 5 June 1968 and switched on the TV. She wanted to watch cartoons but instead there was a special news broadcast, in which she heard her father was shot in Los Angeles. Robert Kennedy died at 42 years of age. May his soul rest in peace.

Kerry remembered at the time lying on her bed. She cried and prayed. She prayed to God that they wouldn’t kill the person who killed her father because she didn’t want any other family to have to endure this pain. Neither did she want a ‘mother to lose another son and, if this man had children, for them to lose their father.’ Kerry wanted an end to the violence.

Even though Kerry and her family were broken hearted at the loss of their Dad, she doesn’t carry bitterness in her heart. She loved her Dad but knew that no amount of hate or bitterness would bring him back from death. She continues the good and much loved work of her father in her work of advocacy.

The psalmist might describe Kerry as a person who goes ‘through the bitter valley and makes it a place of springs.’ (Psalm 84:6).

Today’s reading and Gospel (Mt 5:43-48), may be heard proclaimed via the webcam or read from the Old and New Testament.

In the first reading from the Book of Kings (1 Kings 21:17-29), Ahab having been part of the plot with his wife Jezebel to kill Naboth to seize his vineyard, repents before God.

In the Gospel, Jesus continues his teaching on love. He also tells the disciples to pray and to ‘be perfect as his heavenly Father is perfect.’ Jesus is trying to teach the disciples the difference between the Old Law and the New Law. Jesus enlightens the disciples’ minds to model the love of our neighbour on the love of the Father for each and every person. Jesus knows as a victim of injustice, that it is not easy to love everyone.

SEEK GOD IN THE GROW IN LOVE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMME

The children on hearing the first reading might be drawn towards the angry words and threats used by Elijah to Ahab.  Ahab himself knew what he did was wrong and as a sign of repentance ‘he tore his clothes and put on sackcloth.’ God noticed that Ahab was remorseful and repentant.

Children from their introduction to the Grow in Love programme are offered times of quiet and moments of silence to reflect on their lives. In the daily experiences of life they will learn the importance of saying ‘thank you’, ‘sorry’ and ‘I forgive you’.

In preparation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation they learn further about God’s love and desire to forgive. They chat with family, teacher and friends and discuss secular stories and the Parables about forgiveness. When they say ‘The Act of Sorrow’, they realise, before ever they say sorry to God, they thank God for God’s great love, ‘O my God, I thank you for loving me.’

Children explore what it means to repent, to turn away from sin and turn towards God. God is love and loves each person unconditionally. Jesus asks his disciples to love also. Children recognise the call of John the Baptist to the people, ‘Turn away from your sins, because the Kingdom of heaven is near!’

Children grow in the realisation of God’s kingdom in the reality of their lives. They identify their personal role in building up God’s kingdom in the way they live their daily lives. Each day in their Morning Prayer at school, children are invited to acknowledge God’s unique and special love for them and for every person in the whole world. The Holy Spirit is the helper.

Children chat about loving their neighbour; the neighbour means every other person in their lives. They are taught about God’s love for everyone and that God has no favourites. God’s love is inclusive. The disciples’ love is also inclusive. Jesus was inclusive in loving.

In Senior Classes the theme of social justice offers children many opportunities to explore the principles of Catholic Social Teaching and The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Sixth Class).

Resources are available on the VERITAS Grow in Love website including the Children’s e-books to help children and families deepen their knowledge of Jesus’ inclusive for all, the need for repentance and the sacrament of Reconciliation.

Logon: www.veritas.ie

Email: trial@growinlove.ie

Password: growinlove

INVITATION TO:

SING: ‘Jesus Remember Me When You Come into Your Kingdom’, ‘O Lord hear my Prayer’, ‘The Summons’, ‘They’ll Know We Are Christians By Our Love’, ‘Close to you’, ‘Christ Be Our Light’, ‘Whatsoever You Do’.

READ: ‘John the Baptist ((John 1:6=9, 15), ‘The Preaching of John the Baptist’ (Matthew 3:1-2, 4-6, 11), ‘Parable of the Prodigal Son’ (Luke 15:11-32), ‘The Woman Caught in Adultery’ (John 8:1-11).

PRAY with Grow in Love/I nGrá Dé

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.

‘The Lord has raised up a mighty servant for us, as he promised e through the lips of his prophets prophets.’(Benedictus antiphon)

‘My spirit exults in the Lord God, my saviour.’ (Magnificat antiphon).

‘For I acknowledge my wrongdoings and have my sins ever in mind.’ (Psalm50:3).

‘…Such evasiveness serves as a licence to carrying on with our present lifestyles and models of production and consumption. This is the way human beings contrive to feed their self-destructive vices: trying not to see them, trying not to acknowledge them, delaying the important decisions and pretending that nothing will happen.’(Laudato Si’, no. 59).

Sr Anne Neylon