Today's Gospel reading is from Matthew 13: 1 – 23. Jesus tells the Parable of the Sower to the crowds who followed Him to the seashore. He explains how we hear the Word of God and how we share the Word of God. Only the seed that is planted on good soil grows and multiplies. Sometimes we are distracted and completely misunderstand the call of God. The resources below include coloring pages, videos, and discussion questions to encourage our children to keep their hearts and minds open to receiving the Word.
You will notice that we have divided the content below into four groups to ensure we are addressing the needs of all our learners.
I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy is a fun sing-along song to teach children that when we live by the Word, our hearts will overflow with joy and love for God and each other.
Activity: Download and print the coloring pages that reflect the Parable of the Sower. Some discussion points while coloring:
God wants us to love everyone in our lives. That is the lesson in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus shows that the Kingdom of God consists of action, not just talk.
Activity: Discussion
Parents: This parable illustrates our prejudice and hard hearts toward the suffering of others. But God wants us to love everyone! Even people that we normally would not like. Share personal examples of how you could love others especially when they are different.
Ask your children: To do the same.
Activity: Discussion
Parents: The Gospel reads "whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me." Share with your child a story of a saint that you like who suffered in order to help others or read a story of such a saint together. Possibilities include Dorothy Day, Oscar Romero, Martin de Porres, or Miguel Pro.
Is Everyone Called to Holiness? is a video from Three Minute Catechism that addresses how we are ALL called to a life of holiness which simply means living a life of love of others.
Activity: Discussion
Parents: How do you overcome situations where a minimalist response may "pass" in a situation? Share with your teen how you find ways to selflessly give and share with others in need.
Ask your teens: To do the same.