As November begins, this season invites us to reflect and give thanks.
The month of November is a month of remembering all those we love who have died. The Church celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints, and All Souls Day, when we remember the men and women of faith who have gone before us. Nationally, on Remembrance Sunday, we remember those who have died in wars around the world.
Through this theme of remembrance and gratitude, our resources help children to reflect on Jesus, the King of Kings, who unites us with love and who is always with us, especially in times of difficulty.
This newsletter shares some of the content children will experience in school throughout November, and suggests ways for you to engage with them about it. We hope it is a useful resource for your family prayer time.
TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
The assembly for the second week in November highlights the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica which holds a special place as the ‘mother church’ of the universal Catholic Church.
In the Gospel (John 2:13-22), Jesus’ actions not only demand God’s temple to be a holy place but also point to His death and Resurrection. Children will learn that this feast day is not just a celebration of an important building, but also points to the unity of the worldwide Church. We are all called to be temples of the Holy Spirit and to share God’s presence with those around us.
With your child/ren, you may also like to …
- Research some facts about the Basilica of St John Lateran and create a model, drawing or poster together.
- Talk about how the Holy Spirit can help us, inspire us and guide our actions. Then pray together with the Prayer to the Holy Spirit.
- Watch the video on the Parent Portal used in the assembly and reflect on how places of worship, nature and our friendship with one another can help us to feel close to God’s presence.
KING OF KINGS
The assembly for the week of the 24th of November ends the liturgical year with the Solemnity of Christ the King. Children will celebrate Jesus as our King and Saviour, learning that if we accept Jesus as the King of Kings, we get to share in the Kingdom of God, just like the faithful criminal in the Gospel (Luke 23:35-43).
Through a time of prayer and reflection children will be invited to bring their worship, receive guidance and place their faith in Jesus, who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
With your child/ren, you may also like to …
- Think about different prayer postures, such as kneeling or bowing, which show honour to Jesus the King.
- Pray the Our Father together and ask God to help your family to be confident followers of King Jesus by accepting His love and guidance.
I TRUST IN JESUS
In the week of the 17th of November, the daily prayers remind children that Jesus is always there for us. Inspired by the ‘Litany of Trust’, children will remember that trusting Jesus releases us from our worries and helps us to face difficult challenges.
You may like to use this shortened Litany of Trust in your prayer time:
Lord Jesus, I believe:
That you love me for who I am,
Jesus, I trust in you.
That you care for me as your precious child,
Jesus, I trust in you.
That you are holding me in your arms,
Jesus, I trust in you.
That you are always with me,
Jesus, I trust in you.
That my life is a gift,
Jesus, I trust in you.
Amen
Credits:
Created with images by weyo - "A young girl lights a candle on a religious of all saints day" • Andy - "Uganda sunrise with trees, hills, shadows and morning fog" • Africa Studio - "Burning candles on dark background"