The Holy Family (October 16th)

**It may seem strange to jump from Creation to the Holy Family, but with Advent right around the corner, this lesson provided a way for the children to begin connecting the very beginning of life with the redemption of life to come. This lesson helps children to understand the bond between two of God's amazing creative acts in Genesis and in the Christmas story.** 

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Gospel texts

As Advent and the celebration of Christmas draw closer, we will begin to focus our attention on what life was like when Jesus was born. By learning more about Mary and Joseph and their family, we can begin to understand the way in which God chose to send his son into a simple normal family, one perhaps not far different from our own. Mary and Joseph were in a nique situation, of course, but the children today disussed them as individuals like themselves. They will wonder together about the ways that God in in situations that often seem unfortunate or difficult. Sometimes, God comes to us in surprising and unique ways that are often totally unexpected. Another topic of discussion today was the way in which creatures such as cows, donkeys, and sheep were present on the day that Jesus was born. What a humbling thought! Animals bowed down to our savior as well. Wise Men, who knew so much about the stars and science; shepherds, who were surely as stunned as their flock to see this miraculous sight.... the story is full of mystery and will hopefully lead to some fruitful discussion as Advent begins. 

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder what part of the Holy Family you like best? 

I wonder which of the members of the Holy Family is most like you?

I wonder if other people understood how special the Holy Family was?

I wonder what part of the Holy Family is the most important part? 

I wonder if there is any of the Holy Family we can leave out and still have all that we need? 

Prayer:

“Dear God, as the weather begins to cool and Christmas is around the corner, help me to begin thinking about why it is such a special, important season. Help me to remember that you came to be with us when you sent your son in such a surprising way. I love you Lord- thank you for loving us. Amen.”

Looking forward: Now that we have laid the groundwork for Advent and the culmination in many ways of God’s desire to have relationship with us, we will look back at the other ways in which God came near to us in unique and surprising ways. I encourage you to read over the story of Noah and the Ark with Genesis 6:9- 9:29.