During an Atrium session earlier this year, children (3rd and 4th graders) were welcomed into the Atrium and then the catechist stepped out for a few minutes. Upon returning, the adult entered quietly and enjoyed observing the children as they continued with their freely chosen work. Ten minutes passed before any of the children seemed to realize that the catechist had entered the Atrium. In the Montessori Method it is often said that the children will reach a place of working independently in such a way that it will not matter if the adult is present. This group of children showed the beauty of this reality.
In the readings for this Sunday we hear about many different places. Jesus is called "the Nazarene" because he came from Nazareth. The people Peter is speaking to are called "Israelites" because they come from Israel. We hear about Jerusalem and Emmaus. All of these names refer to real places because the Bible tells us about real people who lived, spoke, and made decisions. Reading about their words and actions can help us to think about how we speak and live.
The Mass is the greatest way in which we, as Christians, live out our relationship with God. It is where we receive the best gift, Jesus, and it is where we respond to God with praise and thanks for all of His many gifts, especially for the gift of Jesus.
Alleluia! The Lord is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!
As we enter into Holy Week, we remember that this most sacred week is an opportunity for extra attentiveness to the voice of the Good Shepherd who so willingly laid down His life for His sheep. In order to listen, however, we need to take time to do so. One way to enter more fully into this week is to recall Jesus' words and actions. Perhaps some of the following ideas will be helpful to you and your family during this unique Holy Week of 2020. Take time to prepare some way of celebrating each day of the Triduum as a family.
As we near the end of the Lenten season, we know that this year many aspects of Lent will continue because of the current challenges our world is facing. However, as with the children, whenever we proclaim, "Christ has died," we continue with, "And He is risen!" Several weeks ago, during Parent Child Night at WOS, two young siblings were talking as they looked at the articles displayed in the Baptism area. The boy (4) said, "Jesus died." Immediately his older sister (6) said, "And He is risen." The boy said, again, "Jesus died," and his sister responded, again, "And He is risen." This happened five times in immediate succession. As we ponder the struggles and challenges of this moment in history, let us never forget that the Light is ALWAYS stronger than the darkness.
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Carolyn Kohlhaas
CGS Catechist and Formation Leader (Levels I, II, and III) Categories
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April 2024
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