We encourage parents to reflect on these questions at home with their children
May 16 The Ascension of the Lord Luke 24:46-53
Today’s Gospel reading is from the very end of Luke. Jesus is talking with his disciples and reminds them that it was written, “the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day.” He also reminds them that in the name of the Messiah, repentance and forgiveness of all sins would be preached from Jerusalem and throughout the world.
Then Jesus blesses the disciples and ascends into heaven.
Remember a time when you have told another person (or God) that you’re sorry for something you said or did. How did that make you feel? Why do you think it’s important to forgive and be forgiven?
May 23 Pentecost John 20:19-23
In this Sundays’ gospel passage, we hear that the disciples are all together in one room, the doors locked, and they are afraid. Jesus comes and stands in the room with them.
“Peace be with you.” He breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” The disciples are not afraid and go outside with Jesus.
Can you call on this gift of the Holy Spirit when you need strength in your life? How?
What times in your life could you have asked for strength and didn’t?
St. Patrick of the Forest Catholic Church 