Hello Families,
Happy Easter!
In the Easter Gospel we hear about how the disciples found the tomb empty three days after Jesus’ death. We are also told that they do not yet understand the Scriptures or that Jesus had been raised from the dead. That understanding gradually unfolded for the disciples as they began to experience the risen Lord. Similarly, our understanding of Jesus’ Resurrection unfolds for us throughout our lives. In the weeks ahead, we will hear how the first disciples moved from confusion, doubt, and skepticism to faith. Their experience can teach us how we too might receive this gift of faith from God.
Gather your family members and ask them to share what they know about the events that happened in the days after Jesus’ crucifixion. Invite your family to imagine that they are among Jesus’ first disciples. Read together today’s Gospel, John 20:1-9. Reflect together on the Gospel with questions such as these: If you had been among the first disciples who heard that the stone had been removed from Jesus’ tomb and that Jesus’ body was no longer there, what would you think? What did Mary of Magdaia, Simon Peter, and the disciple whom Jesus loved think had happened? Recall that this experience is the first indication Jesus’ disciples have that he is risen. Throughout the Easter season, we will learn more about how the disciples came to believe that Jesus had been raised from the dead. Pray together using today’s psalm, Psalm 118: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.”
Liturgy Link – At the beginning of Mass, the priest sprinkles the congregation with holy water. What sacrament does this sprinkling rite help us to recall?
Family Challenge – In the time of Christ, the first Christians would greet one another saying, “Christ is risen,” and the response was, “He has risen indeed.” Greet your family members with these phrases for a whole week
www.loyolapress.com, 52sundays.com
Partners in Faith,
Phyllis Chudzinski
April 8th – No class
April 15th – Class Resumes, 2″ Grade Parent/Child Reconciliation Retreat