10th Week of Ordinary Time, Friday (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."

(From the Gospel)

(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 we, along with Jesus, are the light of the world. We have the light of Jesus, given to us as baptism, shining in us.

We "will shine in the world like bright stars" - this must be a very bright light! Imagine if we could see with our eyes the lights of all those who carry Christ's light within them. I wonder how much light we would all make together? Do you think it would be as bright as the sun? Brighter?

I wonder what it is like in Heaven, with so much of Christ's light shining?

Thank you, Jesus, for giving us Your bright light. Thank you that we can shine it in the world for everyone else, so they can find You and love You.

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."