7th Week of Ordinary Time, Thursday (Cycle II) (St Pancras)

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

"Blessed are you, Father,
Lord of heaven and earth,
for revealing the mysteries of the kingdom to mere children."

(Gospel Acclamation)

(Read the quote, then each line slowly, with pauses to allow the children (and us!) to reflect on the questions.)

The other day we talked about how Jesus welcomes little children with such love.

Today He tells us something else about children. He says that thy mysteries of the kingdom have been revealed to them. That sounds quite special!

Often, adults think they know best about things to do with Jesus. We often know many facts and pieces of information, but many times children actually understand things better.

Can you think of a time when it seemed like adults didn't understand something very obvious to you?

Us adults can learn so much from you children if we take the time to watch and listen. Maybe today you could ask Jesus to help all the adults in your life watch and listen so we can learn some of the things He has shared with you?

Thank you, Jesus, for showing such wonderful things to children. Thank you that we can all learn from the children you have placed in our lives.

(Allow any spontaneous prayers, perhaps leading by example. 3-6 year olds relate most naturally to God through prayers of praise and thanksgiving; 6+ will have started thinking about their needs and the needs of those around them in prayers of intercession. Some children may also just want quiet time to speak with God in their hearts.)

(Sing a simple hymn or chant if your children like singing. Or even if they don't ;) This can also be done at the beginning. )

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