Praying Together with children 2025
Praying Together with children 2025
GPO Box 282, Brisbane AUSTRALIA 4001 (07) 3324 3314 www.liturgybrisbane.net.au publications@liturgybrisbane.net.au Author: Katie Poli ISSN 2652-7529 © 2024 Liturgy Brisbane Acknowledgements Scripture quotations from the Contemporary English Version (CEV) © 1991 American Bible Society, New York. All rights reserved. Excerpts from the English translation of The Roman Missal © 1973-2010, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved. Cover Images from Shutterstock.com. Other images from Unsplash.com, Pixabay.com, Pexels.com, and Shutterstock.com. Used under licence/with permission.
Foreword Praying Together With Children 2025 is a daily prayer resource designed to help teachers, parents and catechists to lead prayer with a class or family. The electronic flipbook version of this book, which is designed to be viewed on screens or electronic whiteboards can be accessed here: https://www.liturgybrisbane.net.au/liturgybrisbane/PrayingTogether/PTWC2025KtPwl4MRk The structure of the prayer for each weekday is the same, so that prayer time may become a familiar routine with a predictable flow. Friday scripture readings are taken from the gospel for the following Sunday. Each page also features a cross aligned with the colour of the liturgical season or day. You may choose to begin each daily prayer session with the lighting of a candle and/or the sounding of a bell or chime to signal the start of prayer. Over time, young people begin to associate the sound of the bell or chime with a quietness of mind and heart and are able to enter into the prayer experience more readily. Similarly, at the conclusion of the prayer, the bell or chime might again be sounded and the candle extinguished. Following the opening prayer and short Scripture reading, there is a response to the reading that takes a variety of forms including short video clip, guided meditation, drama experience, short class discussion or action song. Many of these reflection activities draw on areas of social/emotional wellbeing, friendship, mission and justice, and compassion. These help to deepen the children’s engagement with the scripture reading and may provoke further discussion. The electronic flipbook version of Praying Together is designed to be projected onto a screen for children to follow along with the texts, and even lead the prayer liturgy. Clicking on the relevant hyperlink allows easy viewing of the multimedia reflection activities. The section of the prayer which includes a multimedia component is signalled with a video camera symbol. Praying Together with Children aligns with many areas of religious education curriculum, including liturgy, prayer and spirituality, religious knowing, sacred texts, mission and justice, profession of faith, and moral formation. You are welcome to use the daily liturgies in part or in full, depending on available time and logistics within your space. Teachers may choose to use the reflection activities separately to the prayer liturgy, as many of them could be integrated into curriculum content and other teachable moments. Tips for Praying with Children Set up a simple prayer table with a candle, bible, this prayer book, and perhaps some items from nature to suit the liturgical season. For example, during Easter, some yellow flowers might be placed on the table. Treat items on the prayer table with reverence and encourage children to do the same. Spend time teaching young people to observe sacred silence. Also spend some time talking with children about prayer as a conversation with God. Teach children that there are many ways and places to pray. Some people pray when they are in the garden, some people pray when they sing, some might say a prayer like the ‘Our Father’, while some people prefer to sit in silence to pray. As part of classroom prayer, children may wish to say thank you to God, ask for help with something, praise God for creation, or ask God’s blessing on someone they know who is sick. Children might like to pray these prayers aloud, or in their hearts.
As we begin the new school year, let us pray that all school students may learn to seek God in all people and all events. (pause) God of new beginnings, may this year which we dedicate to you, bring us closer to you and to each other. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Monday Week 3 Ordinary Time 27 January 2025 We Listen We Gather Jesus showed us how to love others by helping them. With the person next to you, think of some ways you could show your love this year by helping others in your school community and in your family. Share your ideas with the class. We Reflect We Go into the World A reading from the first letter of St John (3:11, 18) From the beginning you were told that we must love each other. Children, you show love for others by truly helping them, and not merely by talking about it. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. May we follow the way of Jesus, and help others in our homes and our school. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 1
Go forth Let us Pray Saint Thomas Aquinas was a great scholar who helped us understand what we believe. Let us pray for all students. (pause) God of wisdom, in our learning, be our gentle guide and show us the right path. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. The Word of God A reading from the first letter of St Peter (4:10-11) Brothers and sisters: Use your gifts well. If you have the gift of speaking, preach God’s message. If you have the gift of helping others, do it with the strength that God supplies. Everything should be done in a way that will bring honour to God because of Jesus Christ, who is glorious and powerful forever. Amen. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Tuesday St Thomas Aquinas 28 January 2025 We reflect St Thomas Aquinas, who we remember today, is the patron saint of students. He was an intelligent and talented student who studied at university for many years and wrote some of the most important books in the Catholic tradition. However, school isn’t always easy... watch this short film on the value of working hard and trying your best. May God give us wisdom, perseverance, and courage in all we do. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 2
A reading from the letter of St Paul to the Ephesians (4:2-3, 6) Always be humble and gentle. Patiently put up with each other and love each other. Try your best to let God's Spirit keep your hearts united. Do this by living at peace. There is one God who is the Father of all people. Not only is God above all others, but he works by using all of us, and he lives in all of us. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Let us pray for the faith to recognise God’s presence in our world. (pause) Generous God, help us to cherish the gifts you have given us, And to share these blessings with others. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Wednesday Week 3 Ordinary Time 29 January 2025 We Gather We Listen Peace is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Watch this video to learn more about the fruits of the Spirit, and the peace of God. We Reflect May Christ the Lord walk beside us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. We Go into the World 3
United in God’s love, let us pray. (pause) O God, we see your power in your mercy. Forgive us our sins and bring us to everlasting life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. LET’S PRAY THURSDAY Week 3 Ordinary Time 30 January 2025 The men who were travelling with me saw the light, but did not hear the voice. I asked, 'Lord, what do you want me to do?' Then he told me, 'Get up and go to Damascus. When you get there, you will be told what to do.' The light had been so bright that I couldn't see. And the other men had to lead me by the hand to Damascus. LET’S LISTEN A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (22:6-11) One day about noon I was getting close to Damascus, when a bright light from heaven suddenly flashed around. I fell to the ground and heard a voice asking me, 'Saul, Saul, why are you so cruel to me?' 'Who are you?' I answered. The Lord replied, 'I am Jesus from Nazareth! I am the one you are so cruel to.' LET’S RESPOND As a young man, Paul (or Saul as he was known then) tried to have the followers of Jesus arrested. But after Jesus spoke to him one day, Paul changed! He spent the rest of his life telling people about Jesus and helping them know God. Watch this video to learn more about the story of Saint Paul. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. May God’s face shine upon us and be gracious to us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. LET’S PRAY 4
FRIDAY SAINT JOHN BOSCO Collect Today we celebrate the life of John Bosco. He inspired women and men to continue his work of educating poor students. Let us pray for their work around the world. (pause) O God, source of all wisdom, fill us with love and kindness so we may give ourselves to your service. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Scripture A reading from the holy gospel according to Luke (2:27-28, 30-32) When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple to do what the Law of Moses says should be done for a new baby, the Spirit told Simeon to go into the temple. Simeon took the baby Jesus in his arms and praised God, saying, "With my own eyes I have seen what you have done to save your people, and foreign nations will also see this. "Your mighty power is a light for all nations, and it will bring honour to your people Israel." The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. RESPONSE In the light of this new day, let us pray that God will make of our world a new creation. For new parents and their babies: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For thankful hearts that give praise to God: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the wisdom to keep our eyes on Jesus: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For children and families everywhere: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the prayers in our hearts today: (pause while students offer their prayers aloud) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. DISMISSAL May the light of Christ dwell in our hearts. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 31 JANUARY 2025 5
A reading from the book of Deuteronomy (30:10-12, 14) Moses said to the people: “You must obey the Lord your God and follow all the laws and commands that are in the book of the Law. You must trust him with all your heart and soul. “What I am commanding you today is not too hard. It isn’t out of your reach somewhere up in the sky. You don’t have to ask yourselves, ‘Who will go up to the sky and get it for us? Who will bring it down and tell us what we must do?’ No! What I am commanding is as near as your mouth or your heart. All you have to do is obey.” The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. WE LISTEN MONDAY Moses had a simple message for the people - follow God and trust him with all your heart and soul. Listen to this song “I Will Follow” by Chris Tomlin, and then sing it together with your class to celebrate our faith and trust in God. You might like to create some actions for the chorus words. WE RESPOND Let us pray for all who follow the way and life of Jesus. (pause) God our Creator, strengthen us to be your witnesses and to be fearless proclaimers of the gospel. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. WE GATHER May Christ the Life create us anew. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. WE GO FORTH WEEK 4 ORDINARY TIME 3 FEBRUARY 2025 6
WEEK 4 ORDINARY TIME We gather We listen to God’s word Tuesday We respond We go forth Let us pray that God will give us peace. (pause) Almighty and merciful God, walk with us in our busy lives and keep us free from anxieties and worries. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (14:27) Jesus said to his disciples: “I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.” The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Quieten your minds and reflect on these powerful words of Jesus – “Don’t be worried or afraid”. Sometimes, even when we try to be calm, our minds can be full of anxious thoughts. Try this three-minute meditation that will help you let go of any worries you may be carrying with you today. May the peace of God remain with us today. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 4 February 2025 7
Today we remember the faith and courage of Saint Agatha. Let us pray for all those who suffer persecution in the world. (pause) Faithful God, May we remain true to the gospel of Jesus in good times and in bad. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. WE PRAY WEDNESDAY WE LISTEN A reading from the letter to the Hebrews (12:1-3) Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won’t let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us. We must keep our eyes on Jesus, who leads us and makes our faith complete. He endured the shame of being nailed to a cross, because he knew that later on he would be glad he did. Now he is seated at the right side of God’s throne! So keep your mind on Jesus, who put up with many insults from sinners. Then you won’t get discouraged and give up. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. St Agatha kept on following Jesus, even when she knew it would cost her life. Even though we don’t have to fear the same consequences today, it can still be hard to follow Jesus sometimes. Let’s listen first then sing this song together: I Have Decided to Follow Jesus. WE SING May we show our love for Jesus by caring for others today. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. WE GO SAINT AGATHA 5 FEBRUARY 2025 8
Today we remember Saint Paul Miki and his Japanese friends who were killed because they were Christians. (pause) God, our strength, may the example of Saint Paul Miki and his friends make us strong in our faith. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. We Respond A reading from the book of Proverbs (21:2-5, 13) We may think we are doing the right thing, but the Lord always knows what is in our hearts. Doing what is right and fair pleases the Lord more than an offering. Evil people are proud and arrogant, but sin is the only crop they produce. If you plan and work hard, you will have plenty; if you get in a hurry, you will end up poor. If you won’t help the poor, don’t expect to be heard when you cry out for help. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Thursday St Paul Miki & Companions 6 February 2025 We Pray Today let’s give thanks to God that we live in a country where we can pray and go to church in freedom. There are many places in the world where life is not so safe and peaceful. As we listen to some quiet music, pass an item from your prayer table (eg small cross, prayer stone) around the prayer circle. When you receive the item, make a prayer for peace either aloud or in your heart, before you pass it to the person next to you. We Listen May we show our love for Jesus by caring for others today. Amen. May God make us instruments of his peace. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. We Pray 9
FRIDAY WEEK 4 ORDINARY TIME 7 FEBRUARY 2025 A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (5:3-4, 6, 8-11) Jesus sat down in the boat to teach the crowd on the shore. When Jesus had finished speaking, he told Simon, "Row the boat out into the deep water and let your nets down to catch some fish." They did it and caught so many fish that their nets began ripping apart. When Simon Peter saw this happen, he knelt down in front of Jesus and said, "Lord, don't come near me! I am a sinner." Peter and everyone with him were completely surprised at all the fish they had caught. His partners James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were surprised too. Jesus told Simon, "Don't be afraid! From now on you will bring in people instead of fish." The men pulled their boats up on the shore. Then they left everything and went with Jesus. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. What an amazing miracle story! Talk together about what Jesus might have meant when he told Simon Peter that he would now be catching people instead of fish. Even though Simon Peter didn’t feel important enough for this job, Jesus told him not to be afraid. Jesus says the same to us. With Jesus, we can achieve great things. To reflect on this story again, you could watch the short film Jesus’ Miracle Catch of Fish. Let us pray for a sense of awe and wonder. (pause) God our Father, though we have not actually seen Christ with our own eyes, open our hearts to your truth and deepen our faith in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. May Christ the Lord walk beside us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 10
Saint Scholastica, like her twin brother Saint Benedict, lived a holy life in a monastery. Let us pray that we will give ourselves to God in our prayer, our learning and our play. (pause) God, our life and our joy, may everything we do turn our minds and hearts to you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. A reading from the first letter of St Paul to the Thessalonians (5:16-18) Brothers and sisters: Always be joyful and never stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Dear Lord, Inspire us to be like Saint Scholastica in our love of learning. St Scholastica, pray for us. Please help us to be curious like her, wanting to know more about the world and about You. St Scholastica, pray for us. Give us the courage to ask questions when we are confused and the patience to listen and understand the answers. St Scholastica, pray for us. Help us to share what we learn with our friends and family, spreading the joy of knowledge. St Scholastica, pray for us. And when things get tough, remind us that it it okay to make mistakes because that is how we learn. St Scholastica, pray for us. MONDAY Saint Scholastica 10 February 2025 May the love of God and the love of learning be alive in us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 11
We Pray... Let us pray that God will watch over us and protect us. (pause) Almighty and merciful God, watch over your family and keep us safe in your care, for all our hope is in you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. We Go Forth... May Christ the Life create us anew. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 3 We Respond... In groups, retell the story of Jesus healing Jairus’s daughter. Firstly, choose group members to be the various characters, and silently act it out whilst your teacher reads the story. Secondly, retell the story on your own, using voices, sounds and movements. We Listen... A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (5:35-36, 38-42) Some men came from Jairus’ home and said, “Your daughter has died! Why bother the teacher anymore?” Jesus heard what they said, and he said to Jairus, “Don’t worry. Just have faith!” They went home with Jairus and saw the people crying and making a lot of noise. Then Jesus went inside and said to them, “Why are you crying and carrying on like this? The child is not dead. She is just asleep.” But the people laughed at him. Jesus took the twelve-year-old girl by the hand and said, “Talitha, koum!” which means, “Little girl, get up!” The girl got right up and started walking around. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Week 5 Ordinary Time 11 February 2025 Tuesday 4 2 1 12
WEDNESDAY WEEK 5 ORDINARY TIME Collect Let us pray for the day when all will be one. (pause) God of oneness and peace, help us recognise your rich gifts in others and build unity from our differences. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Scripture A reading from the book of the prophet Jeremiah (31:33) They will be my people, says the Lord. The Lord says this: “This is the agreement that I, the Lord, will make with the people of Israel: I will write my laws on their hearts and minds. I will be their God, and they will be my people.” The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. RESPONSE By saying “I will write my laws on their hearts”, God is telling Jeremiah that he gives us a conscience so we can decide right from wrong. Through making good decisions and following in Jesus’ footsteps, we can be people of God. Using some blank paper, draw a large heart, and write some simple ways to follow the “law of God” and choose right over wrong. Colour your heart, and either create a class mural, or glue it into your RE book. DISMISSAL May the love and generosity of God guide our minds. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 12 FEBRUARY 2025 13
We Listen A reading from the letter of St Paul to the Philippians (4:4-7) Always be glad because of the Lord! I will say it again: Be glad. Always be gentle with others. The Lord will soon be here. Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Thursday Week 5 Ordinary Time 13 February 2025 We Pray Let us pray that we will honour and respect God’s name. (pause) God of the Universe, we rejoice to call you Father. Keep us always in your love and fill our hearts with thanks and praise. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. We Respond Let’s sing a song of praise to God, who has done great and marvellous things! Join in lifting your voices to sing ‘Holy is the Lord’ by Chris Tomlin. We Go Forth May the peace of God remain with us today. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 14
Scripture Dismissal May God fill us with his mercy. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (6:20-23) Jesus looked at his disciples and said: "God will bless you people who are poor. His kingdom belongs to you! God will bless you hungry people. You will have plenty to eat! God will bless you people who are crying. You will laugh! "God will bless you when others hate you and won't have anything to do with you. God will bless you when people insult you and say cruel things about you, all because you are a follower of the Son of Man! Long ago your own people did these same things to the prophets. "So when this happens to you, be happy and jump for joy! You will have a great reward in heaven." The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Collect Let us pray that God will care for us and all those we love. (pause) O God, bless us and keep us safe as we go about doing your work in the world. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. FRIDAY SAINTS CYRIL AND METHODIUS 14 FEBRUARY 2025 Response With a partner, create your own simple actions to the Beatitudes. Act out your movements as your teacher re-reads the Gospel. Alternatively, join in with the actions to this song: The Beatitudes 15
As brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pray to God as our Father. (pause) God our Father, look upon us with love and make us your children in the one family of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. LET’S PRAY MONDAY Week 6 Ordinary Time 17 February 2025 "But I will give you more than you have asked for. I will make you rich and respected. You will be the most famous king of your time. And if you obey me and keep all my laws and commands, as your father David did, I will give you a long life." The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. LET’S LISTEN A reading from the first book of the Kings (3:11-14) The Lord said to Solomon: "I will answer your prayer. You will be wise and know more than anyone who has ever lived or ever will live. You didn't ask to live a long time or to be rich, and you didn't ask for your enemies to be destroyed. All you wanted was to be honest and fair. LET’S RESPOND Rejoicing in God’s care for us, let us pray for the needs of the world. For honesty and fairness in the world: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For eyes to recognise Christ in other people: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For an attitude of joy in serving others: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the wisdom to desire what is right: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the prayers in our hearts today: (pause while students offer their prayers aloud) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. LET’S GO FORTH May the love of God guide our minds. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 16
TUESDAY 18 FEBRUARY 2025 We Gather... Let us pray that God will make us more like Jesus. (pause) God our Father, teach us to imitate the love and compassion of Jesus, and help us to be like him in word and deed. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Week 6 Ordinary Time We Listen... A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (5:43-45) Jesus said to his disciples: “You have heard people say, ‘Love your neighbours and hate your enemies.’ But I tell you to love your enemies and pray for anyone who mistreats you. Then you will be acting like your Father in heaven. He makes the sun rise on both good and bad people. And he sends rain for the ones who do right and for the ones who do wrong.” The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. We Reflect... Form mixed groups of three people (ie not with your usual friends). Your teacher will call out various numbers. With your group, you will need to have exactly that many points of contact with the floor... eg the number 4 might mean two people need to stand on one foot. We Go into the World... May God give us hearts that are welcoming and kind. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. After the activity, find a quiet space in the room and reflect: How did your team work together? Was it easy to work with people who are not your usual friends? Did it feel good when you came up with solutions together? 17
Go forth Let us Pray Let us pray to God, our protector. (pause) God of the universe, we praise your power. God of kindness, we invoke your blessing. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. The Word of God A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah (26:1-4) The time is coming when the people of Judah will sing this song: "Our city is protected. The Lord is our fortress, and he gives us victory. Open the city gates for a law-abiding nation that is faithful to God. The Lord gives perfect peace to those whose faith is firm. So always trust the Lord because he is forever our mighty rock. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Wednesday Week 6 Ordinary Time 19 February 2025 Sing together God is our fortress, strong and mighty, and there’s nothing that God cannot do! Rejoice in this message by singing along to the song in this video. May God’s strength protect us from all harm. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 18
WE RESPOND WE GATHER WE GO FORTH Thursday Week 6 Ordinary Time A reading from the first letter of St Paul to the Corinthians (1:26-27, 30) My dear friends: remember what you were when God chose you. The people of this world didn’t think that many of you were wise. But God chose the foolish things of this world to put the wise to shame. He chose the weak things of this world to put the powerful to shame. You are God’s children. He sent Christ Jesus to save us and to make us wise, acceptable, and holy. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. WE LISTEN Let us pray that we will trust in God and worship with joyful hearts. (pause) All-powerful God, increase our faith and help us to understand that you will make everything happen at the right time. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. May the Holy Spirit enlighten us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 20 February 2025 Trusting that God sees and hears us, let us pray for the needs of the world. Pass an item from your prayer table (eg small cross, prayer stone) around the prayer circle. When you receive the item, make a prayer either aloud or in your heart, before you pass it to the person next to you. We pray together: For those who work hard to achieve at school: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For those who feel weak or helpless: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For those who are sad or ashamed: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. 19
Friday Week 6 Ordinary Time We gather We listen to God’s word We reflect We go forth Let us pray that we grow in our love of God and other people. (pause) God our Father, help us to be more like your son, Jesus, and keep your love alive in our hearts. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (6:27-28, 31) Jesus said to his disciples, "This is what I say to all who will listen to me: Love your enemies, and be good to everyone who hates you. Ask God to bless anyone who curses you, and pray for everyone who is cruel to you. Treat others just as you want to be treated." The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Spend a few quiet minutes reflecting on who your ‘enemies’ might be in any particular situation. Jesus tells us that we should love and pray for the people who make life hard for us, and that we should treat others with kindness – just as we like to be treated. Watch this engaging video clip called “Love Your Enemy” and then talk about how the characters have changed by the end of the video. May the joy that comes from God fill our hearts. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 21 FEBRUARY 2025 20
We Go Forth We Respond We Pray Monday Week 7 Ordinary Time 24 February 2025 We Listen Let us pray that God will give us the grace to follow Christ. (pause) God, our hope and strength, do not let us falter as we strive to follow your will. Through Christ our Lord. Amen A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (4:1-9) Jesus used stories to teach the people many things. “A farmer went out to scatter seed in a field. While the farmer was scattering the seed, some of it fell along the road and was eaten by birds. Other seeds fell on thin, rocky ground and quickly started growing because the soil was not very deep. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched and dried up, because they did not have enough roots. Some other seeds fell where thorn bushes grew up and choked out the plants. So they did not produce any grain. But a few seeds did fall on good ground where the plants grew and produced thirty or sixty or even a hundred times as much as was scattered.” Then Jesus said, “If you have ears, pay attention.” The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ To reflect on this important parable of Jesus, watch this video together which depicts the story of the seeds and the farmer, and explains the important messages it contains. This video comes from Crossroads Kids’ Club, called God’s Story: Seeds and a Farmer. May the Lord look upon us with kindness and give us peace. Amen May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen 21
SCRIPTURE RESPONSE GATHER DISMISSAL TUESDAY WEEK 7 ORDINARY TIME 25 FEBRUARY 2025 A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (4:16-19) Jesus went back to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and as usual he went to the meeting place on the Sabbath. When he stood up to read from the Scriptures, he was given the book of Isaiah the prophet. He opened it and read, “The Lord’s Spirit has come to me, because he has chosen me to tell the good news to the poor. The Lord has sent me to announce freedom for prisoners, to give sight to the blind, to free everyone who suffers, and to say, ‘This is the year the Lord has chosen.’” The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. God not only sent Jesus to spread his word, but has chosen each and every one of us to bring the good news to everyone! Listen to this song that reminds us that we are all part of God’s chosen people. If you catch on to the melody, you can join in. Let us pray that we will come with confidence to God in prayer. (pause) God of wisdom, you know us and love us. Be close to us and hear the prayers of all who call on you. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. May the God choose us and send enlighten us with his Holy Spirit. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 22
WEDNESDAY Let us pray that God will grant us the joy of lasting peace. (pause) Faithful God, Pour out on us the spirit of understanding, truth and peace as we place all our hope in you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Week 7 Ordinary Time 26 February 2025 WE LISTEN TO GOD’S WORD A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah (32:15-20) When the Spirit is given to us from heaven, deserts will become orchards, and orchards will turn into fertile forests. Honesty and justice will prosper in the deserts and orchards. Then justice will produce unending peace and quiet. My people will live in peace, secure and undisturbed, even if hailstones flatten forests and cities. They will have my blessing, as they plant their crops beside streams and let their donkeys roam freely about. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. WE PRAY Let us ask for God’s blessing upon us all today, and upon those who need God’s help in a special way. The reading from Isaiah we have just heard talks about living in peace. What is it like to have a peaceful mind and a peaceful body? Spend some time now doing this guided meditation to bring a sense of peace into your whole self. WE REFLECT May God’s motherly love surround us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. WE GO FORTH 23
THURSDAY WEEK 7 ORDINARY TIME Collect Let us pray that those who put their faith in God will be richly blessed. (pause) O God, show us your kindness and help us to turn to you in times of need. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Scripture A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah (30:18) The Lord God is waiting to show you how kind he is and to have pity on you. The Lord always does right, and he blesses everyone who trusts him. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. RESPONSE As today’s reading tells us, God will always be kind to those who trust him. Kindness is like a ripple - its effect can keep going far beyond the initial kind deed. Watch this video on the ripple effect of kindness. As a class, create a Kindness Chart, with ways you can be kind to your friends, teachers, families, neighbours, loved ones, and other people in your community. DISMISSAL May the joy that comes from God fill our hearts. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 27 FEBRUARY 2025 24
Let us pray that we will show our love for each other through our actions. (pause) Merciful God, be our guide as we strive to help those who are in need. May your love within us be seen in what we do. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. WE LISTEN WE PRAY WEEK 7 ORDINARY TIME 28 FEBRUARY 2025 WE GATHER FRIDAY A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (6:43-45) A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot produce good fruit. You can tell what a tree is like by the fruit it produces. You cannot pick figs or grapes from thorn bushes. Good people do good things because of the good in their hearts. Bad people do bad things because of the evil in their hearts. Your words show what is in your heart. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Rejoicing in the presence of Christ, let us pray for the needs of the world. For hearts that are filled with good fruit: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the patience to speak kind words: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the energy to do good deeds: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For persistence in choosing to do what is right: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the prayers in our hearts today: (pause while students offer their prayers aloud) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. May the love of Christ inspire us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. WE GO 25
We Pray We Respond Monday Week 8 Ordinary Time 3 March 2025 We Listen May God’s promises fill us with joy. Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. We Go Forth A reading from the holy gospel according to John (3:16-17) Jesus told Nicodemus: "God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never die. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn its people. He sent him to save them!" The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Let us pray for God’s protection. (pause) O God, whose love never fails, keep us from danger and provide for all our needs. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. This scripture reading reminds us of the wonderful news that God sent Jesus to save us! Listen to this song by Chris Tomlin called “Thank You God For Saving Me”. You might like to sing aloud or pray the words quietly in your heart. 26
WE LISTEN TUESDAY WE RESPOND WE GATHER WE GO FORTH WEEK 8 ORDINARY TIME 4 MARCH 2025 A reading from the first letter of St Paul to the Corinthians (12:12-13) The body of Christ has many different parts, just as any other body does. Some of us are Jews, and others are Gentiles. Some of us are slaves, and others are free. But God’s Spirit baptised each of us and made us part of the body of Christ. Now we each drink from that same Spirit. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. If someone asked you, “What is your special talent?” what would you say? Maybe you’re good at writing, or singing, or building things? Maybe you’re good at sport, or gardening or playing a musical instrument? One thing is for sure – nobody has the same mix of special gifts as you. Watch this video together to learn more about the many different parts of the body of Christ and how we can use our gifts to serve God. Let us pray for the faith to recognise God’s presence in our world. (pause) Generous God, help us to cherish the gifts you have given us And to share these blessings with others. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. May Christ smile graciously upon us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 27
Ash Wednesday Wednesday With ashes as our sign, we begin the forty days of Lent and commit ourselves to fasting, prayer and good works. Let us pray that we may be faithful to Jesus’ call to turn back to him. (pause) Merciful God, tenderly guide us through this Lenten season. May the ashes we wear today lead us to Christ and the Gospel. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Let’s pray... A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah (58:6-8) I’ll tell you what it really means to worship the Lord. Remove the chains of prisoners who are chained unjustly. Free those who are abused! Share your food with everyone who is hungry; share your home with the poor and homeless. Give clothes to those in need; don’t turn away your relatives. Then your light will shine like the dawning sun, and you will quickly be healed. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Let’ Let ss listen to God’s word... Spend a few minutes as a group discussing ways that you might share your food with the hungry, or give clothes, toys or other belongings to those in need during Lent. Watch together this short film of a man who was eating in a restaurant and saw a hungry boy outside. What would you have done? 5 March 2025 Let’s Reflect... Let’s Go Forth... May God bless us and protect us and bring us to eternal life. Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 28
Thursday THURSDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY We gather We listen to God’s word We respond We go forth As we begin our Lenten journey, let us pray. (pause) God of love and mercy, walk with us through this Lenten season. May your love within us be seen in what we do. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (6:1,16-18) Jesus said to his disciples: “When you do good deeds, don’t try to show off. If you do, you won’t get a reward from your Father in heaven. When you go without eating, don’t try to look gloomy as those show-offs do when they go without eating. I promise you that they already have their reward. Instead, comb your hair and wash your face. Then others won’t know that you are going without eating. But your Father sees what is done in private, and he will reward you.” The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Have you heard of “Random Acts of Kindness”? It is a worldwide movement, where people help others, or give unexpected gifts to people they do not know. The act is often done anonymously, not for reward or thanks... merely to spread a little happiness! Watch this short video on the importance of those small acts of kindness that can make a huge difference to other people. Can you think of any Random Acts of Kindness you could do today? May God fill our hearts with kindness and joy. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 6 March 2025 29
Let us pray that the special time of Lent will help us to lead better lives. (pause) Wise and loving God, by our Lenten prayers and actions, may we discover your wonderful gifts of mercy and grace. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (4:1-4) When Jesus returned from the Jordan River, the power of the Holy Spirit was with him, and the Spirit led him into the desert. For forty days Jesus was tested by the devil, and during that time he went without eating. When it was all over, he was hungry. The devil said to Jesus, "If you are God's Son, tell this stone to turn into bread." Jesus answered, "The Scriptures say, 'No one can live only on food.' " The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. This Sunday is the first Sunday of Lent. Each year on this liturgical day, people attending church will hear the story of Jesus’ temptation in the desert. The reading you have just heard is only part of the story. Watch this short video, The Temptation of Jesus, to hear the full story of Jesus’ time in the desert. FRIDAY Friday after Ash Wednesday 7 March 2025 May God bless us and protect us and bring us to eternal life. Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 30
RESPONSE COLLECT DISMISSAL SCRIPTURE MONDAY 10 MARCH 2025 Week 1 Lent Let us pray for the courage to trust in God. (pause) Father, our source of life, you know our weakness. May we reach out with joy to grasp your hand and walk more readily in your ways. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. A reading from the book of Lamentations (3:22-25) We would have been destroyed, if the Lord had not been kind. But his mercy never fails. The Lord can always be trusted to show mercy each morning. Deep in my heart I say, “The Lord is all I need. I can depend on him!” The Lord is good to everyone who trusts and worships him. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Lent is a time when we remember how important it is to put Jesus first. Even though there are lots of things we need to pay attention to every day, this song reminds us that we can always say: “Jesus, You’re All I Need.” May Christ the Life create us anew. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 31
Scripture Dismissal May God bless us and protect us and bring us to eternal life Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah (46:4) Jesus looked at his disciples and said: "The Lord said: “Even when you are old I will still be the same, and I will take care of you. I created you, and I will carry you and always keep you safe. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Collect Let us pray that God will care for us and all those we love. (pause) O God, bless us and keep us safe as we go about doing your work in the world. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. TUESDAY WEEK 1 LENT 11 MARCH 2025 Response We can enjoy the wonderful comfort that comes from this reading. God promises to be the same even when we are old, and to take care of us always. No matter where we go, God will carry us and keep us safe. Enjoy some moments of peace and comfort now as you do this ‘Happy Place’ meditation together. 32
We Reflect... We Gather... 12 MARCH 2025 WEDNESDAY Week 1 Lent Let us pray for God’s care and protection. (pause) All-powerful God, your love never fails. Hear our call, keep us from danger, and remind us to trust in you whenever we are afraid. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. We Listen... A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah (41:10) The Lord says this: Don’t be afraid! I am with you. Don’t tremble with fear. I am your God. I will help you to be strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. In small groups, create a freeze frame for each sentence/line of the scripture reading. Rehearse your freeze frames with your group, then share your frozen sculptures with another group. Finally, as a class, perform your series of freeze frames at the same time, whilst your teacher reads the scripture passage. We Go Forth... May God bless us and protect us and bring us to eternal life. Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 33
Go forth Let us Pray Let us pray that we will have a deep respect for God’s name. (pause) God of the Universe, we rejoice to call you Father. Keep us always in your love and fill our hearts with thanks and praise. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. The Word of God A reading from the book of Revelation (15:3-4) Lord God All-Powerful, you have done great and marvellous things. You are the ruler of all nations, and you do what is right and fair. Lord, who doesn’t honour and praise your name? You alone are holy, and all nations will come and worship you, because you have shown that you judge with fairness. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Thursday Week 1 Lent 13 March 2025 In reflection The reading today speaks of God always being right and judging fairly. Sometimes in our lives, we judge too quickly, and fail to realise a person’s true character. Watch this short film called “Snack Attack” that reminds us not to ‘judge a book by its cover’. May God bless us and protect us and bring us to eternal life. Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 34
Let us pray for those who work for peace by letting God shine in their lives. (pause) God of peace and justice, help us to listen to Jesus and bring his light to the world. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. LET’S PRAY FRIDAY Week 1 Lent 14 March 2025 Peter and the other two disciples had been sound asleep. All at once they woke up and saw how glorious Jesus was. Then a shadow from a cloud passed over them, and they were frightened as the cloud covered them. From the cloud a voice spoke, "This is my chosen Son. Listen to what he says!" The Gospel of the Lord. LET’S LISTEN A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (9:28-32, 34-35) Jesus took Peter, John, and James with him and went up on a mountain to pray. While he was praying, his face changed, and his clothes became shining white. While he was praying, his face changed, and his clothes became shining white. Suddenly Moses and Elijah were there speaking with him. They appeared in heavenly glory and talked about all that Jesus' death in Jerusalem would mean. LET’S RESPOND Walking by the light of Christ, let us pray that Christ will dispel the darkness of this world. For those who struggle to hear Jesus’ voice: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the courage to do what Jesus asks of us: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer . For people who cannot find restful sleep: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For those who mourn the death of a loved one: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. LET’S GO FORTH May the love of God guide our minds. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. For the prayers in our hearts today: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. 35
WE GATHER Saint Patrick was a bishop who preached the love of Christ in Ireland. Since then, Irish people have spread the gospel to the ends of the earth. Let us pray for all missionaries. (pause) Eternal God, as you sent Saint Patrick to teach the Gospel to the people of Ireland, so may we bring peace and joy to others. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. A reading from the book of the prophet Jeremiah (1:4-8) The Lord said to Jeremiah, “Before I gave you life, and before you were born, I chose you to be a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah replied, “Lord God, how can I speak for you? I’m too young.” The Lord answered, “Don’t say you’re too young. Go to everyone I send you to and tell them everything I command you. Don’t be afraid of them! I, the Lord, will be with you to keep you safe.” The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. WE LISTEN TO GOD’S WORD WE RESPOND St Patrick devoted his life to spreading the gospel to the people of Ireland. The celebration of St Patrick’s day has become a celebration of Irish culture in many parts of the world, where people dress in green clothing and have colourful parades. But how much do you actually know about the life of St Patrick? Watch this video to find out! The History of Saint Patrick – A Short Story WE GO OUT INTO THE WORLD May God’s face shine upon us and be gracious to us. Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. MONDAY SAINT PATRICK 17 MARCH 2025 36
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