8th Week of Ordinary Time, Tuesday (Cycle II)

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

"You will shine in the world like bright stars
because you are offering it the word of life."

(Gospel Acclamation)

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

We have talked a few times about Jesus being the Light of the World. We've also talked about how we have that light in us, because we have been baptised.

Have you ever thought about how your light shines in the world?

"You will shine in the world like bright stars because you are offering it the word of life."

We will shine in the world like bright stars. Can you imagine all the Christians all over the world, shining like the stars in the sky? Imagine if we each had a candle that people could see - what a lot of light we would make!

How wonderful that there are so many people shining with the light of Christ.

Thank you, Jesus, for giving us Your light. Thank you that we can shine it in the world for everyone who has not yet found it.

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."