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A Prayer and Liturgy Resource for planning and celebrating the Christian faith in Catholic Schools

Being with God

A Crossways Companion Document

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This Crossways Companion Document can be located onlinehttp://online.cesanet.adl.catholic.edu.au/docushare/dsweb/HomePageReligious Education > Religious Education Integrating Faith, Life and Culture >

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Catholic Education SA116 George Street Thebarton South Australia 5031www.cesa.catholic.edu.auArchdiocese of Adelaide and Diocese of Port Pirie2014

A Prayer and Liturgy Resource for planning and celebrating the

Christian faith in Catholic Schools

Being with God

http://online.cesanet.adl.catholic.edu.au/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-3296

Planning and Celebrating the Christian Faith in Catholic Schools1A Prayer and Liturgy Resource

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CONTENTSForeword1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Welcome to this Resource for Prayer and Liturgy

1.2. Prayer and Liturgy in Catholic Schools

1.3. Liturgy

1.4. More About Prayer

1.5. Summary

2. PLANNING and CELEBRATING LITURGY AND PRAYER SERVICES2.1. Life-giving Communal Prayer

2.2. A Structure for Communal Prayer

2.3. Creating the Sacred Space

2.4. Practical Hints for Prayer

2.5. Music

2.6. Praying Scripture

2.7. Praying Outdoors

2.8. The Liturgical Year of the Church

2.9. Traditional Prayers in Crossways

2.10 Considerations for Students from other Traditions and Faiths

3. EXAMPLES of LITURGY3.1. Liturgy of the Word

3.2. Penitential Service

3.3. Liturgy of the Hours

3.4. Service of Healing

3.5. Ritual of Light

3.6. Liturgy of Blessing

3.7. Liturgy of the Word for a deceased member of

a school community

4. CELEBRATING the EUCHARIST with CHILDREN4.1. Meeting the Needs of the Children

4.2. Guidelines for Preparing Masses with Children

5. FORMAL PRAYERS6. RESOURCES for PRAYER and LITURGY7. GLOSSARY8. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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2 Being with GodPlanning and Celebrating the Christian Faith in Catholic Schools

FOREWORD: Letter of Endorsement from the Bishops of SA

Dear Educators

Your faith and commitment to the mission of the Church are crucial to the role of the Catholic school in sharing the joy of the Gospel, the Good News that Jesus lived and proclaimed. Prayer was central in how Jesus lived. Prayer is an encounter with the mystery of God and we all are invited into relationship with God through this encounter.

In Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation, The Joy of the Gospel, he says that the spiritual life is more than a few religious exercises which offer comfort; it is about encounter with others and with Jesus Christ, an engagement with the world, and a passion for evangelisation.1

Through prayer the human heart can seek meaning, purpose and fulfilment in life. Pope Francis reminds us, “The Lord tells us: ‘the first task in life is this: prayer.’ But not the prayer of words, like a parrot; but the prayer, the heart: gazing on the Lord, hearing the Lord, asking the Lord” (Oct. 8 2013 homily2).

This Being with God Prayer and Liturgy Resource will assist you with the planning and celebration of our Christian faith in shared prayer and Liturgy in our Catholic schools. We recognise that our Catholic schools are blessed with people who come from a variety of religious backgrounds. This calls us all to a wisdom which promotes an unambiguous Catholic identity of the school, honours the Catholic Tradition and respects the faiths and religious backgrounds of all in the school community. This resource aims to support you in this complex and privileged task.

We are pleased to authorise the use of Being with God in Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Adelaide and the Diocese of Port Pirie.

Teachers and all school staff are witnesses to, and sharers in, the Mystery which they themselves live and lovingly communicate to others. The witness that you give to your students and others in the way you pray and lead them into prayer lays the foundation for authentic religious education and formation.

We thank you for all that you do in responding to this privilege and responsibility.

Most Rev Philip Wilson DD JCL Most Rev Greg O’Kelly SJ AM DDArchbishop of Adelaide Bishop of Port PirieSeptember 2014

1 Pope Francis 2013, Evangelii Gaudium, nn. 77, 78, 91.2 www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-francis-prayer-is-not-simply-saying-words-like-a-parrot/

www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-francis-prayer-is-not-simply-saying-words-like-a-parrot/

3A Prayer and Liturgy ResourcePlanning and Celebrating the Christian Faith in Catholic Schools


“…prayer is a surge of the heart; it

is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both

trial and joy.”

St Therese of Lisieux

1. INTRODUCTION

This resource offers practical guidance for planning and celebrating prayer and Liturgy in the classroom and school community. Prayer and Liturgy are central to the life, celebration and curriculum of Catholic Schools. Teachers are often called to lead others in prayer and Liturgy and have the privilege of being positive role models and witnesses. Prayer is at the heart of Christian spirituality and teachers can help students to be aware of the presence of God in everyday life and to become persons of prayer. Over many centuries people of Catholic communities have devised certain styles and traditions and devotions in their practice of their Christian faith, and together these form a rich history of prayer forms.

Catholic schools give students opportunities to:

• learnaboutprayerintheCatholicTradition

• listenandrespondtoGod

• embracethebeautyandrichnessofprayerintheCatholic Tradition

• developskillsforpersonalandcommunalprayerandLiturgy.

In our Catholic school communities, everyone is encouraged to set aside time for personal prayer and to pray together with others.

When planning and celebrating prayer and Liturgy, teachers are encouraged to dialogue with the REC/APRIM, other school leaders, colleagues, and where appropriate the Priest Celebrant.

1.1 WELCOME to this RESOURCE for PRAYER and LITURGY


11.2 PRAYER and LITURGY in CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Liturgy is a particular form of prayer in the Catholic Tradition which is explored in the following section. The shape of Liturgy provides a useful framework for communal prayer in Catholic schools. With this framework ritual can be creatively explored and expressed in the context of the school and the students’ experience.

Prayer is an encounter with the mystery of God and we are invited into relationship with God through this encounter. Through prayer the human person, alone and in community, acknowledges God as the source of life and love, and the yearning in the human heart to find meaning and purpose in life.

Prayer takes many forms. Liturgy is the formal prayer of the Church, but not all prayer is Liturgy. Prayer may be private or communal, formal or spontaneous, silent or spoken. Prayer in the Catholic school is faithful to and founded in the richness of the Catholic Tradition.

In Catholic schools students learn about prayer and are given opportunities to experience prayer in many settings, including the classroom, whole school gatherings and retreats or reflection days. By experiencing different ways of praying personally and communally, spontaneously and formally, students learn how to pray, develop an appreciation for the richness of the Tradition, and are encouraged to make prayer part of their daily lives.


1.3 LITURGY

Within the Catholic Tradition, Liturgy designates the official public worship of the Church. It pertains to the work of the Church as it proclaims the life, death and resurrection of Christ and the action of the Holy Spirit.

Liturgyincludes

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults/

Children of catechetical age

Liturgy ofThe hours

ChristianFunerals

Blessings

Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism,

Confirmation, Eucharist

Eucharist

Sacraments of Healing: Reconciliation.

Anointing of the Sick

Sacraments of Vocation: Marriage,

Ordination

Religious Profession

Sunday, the “Lord’s Day”, is the principal day for the celebration of the Eucharist because it is the day of the Resurrection. It is the pre-eminent day of the liturgical assembly, the day of the Christian family, and the day of joy and rest from work. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1193)


When planning Liturgies, teachers need to be faithful to the ritual and form as prescribed by the Church.

The shape of Catholic liturgy is set by the Church; it contains two key elements: WORD and SYMBOL. These are framed by Introductory Rites (Gathering) and Blessing and Dismissal Rites (Sending Forth).

INTRODUCTORY RITES Celebrating Christ’s presence in the people gathered

These include the preparation of the sacred space, the opening song and greeting. We begin prayer with the Sign of the Cross, and the leader greets and welcomes people in the name of Christ.

THE PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD Celebrating Christ’s presence in the Word

• The Word of God links us to the death and resurrection of Jesus and to the story of the Christian community. The Word is proclaimed, that is, spoken from the heart with conviction and reverence.

• The Word includes the preaching of the Word, or a reflection to break open the Word.

• The Prayer of the Faithful concludes the Proclamation of the Word.

❱ the Church;

❱ leadership in society and the life of the world

❱ the poor and the needy

❱ the local community, especially the needs of the school community and class.

The SHAPE of CATHOLIC LITURGY

Suggested themes for the Prayer of the Faithful:

These four themes have their origins in the “Bidding Prayers” in the ancient Liturgy of Good Friday.


SYMBOL: Celebrating sacramentality

Symbols are gateways to deeper insights about the action of God in our lives and a sacramental understanding of reality. They inspire and awaken the imagination and point to a reality beyond their physical form.

Significant symbols and actions within the Christian community include:

• the people gathered• the Cross• bread and wine• the altar • lectionary and lectern (ambo)• candles and incense• oil• water• other symbols and actions within the sacred space e.g.

religious art, processions, blessings, movement and singing.

The Scriptures provide a variety of symbols and actions that also inspire creative ritual (e.g. fire, earth, wheat, seeds, silence, greetings of peace). These symbols and the accompanying actions are ways of drawing us into the sacred.

DISMISSAL RITES: Sending forth

Christian prayer calls us, as disciples, to mission. The blessing and ‘sending forth’ are calls to witness to God’s presence through charity and Christian love. They are rituals of encouragement and hope.


1.4 MORE ABOUT PRAYER

Prayer is the expression of our response to the sacred, a way of communicating with God in all the events of life – in word, song, silence, contemplation and symbol.

Prayer helps us to enter the inner quiet of our being to discover and communicate with God. Through the practice of prayer we are called to co-create a more just world.

“...There are many ways to pray. The challenge for each of us is to find the style of prayer that enables us to grow in an ever-increasing awareness that God desires our response in love. When we come to know that we are loved by God then we can never be the same again. If our relationship with God is strong our focus is directed outwards to the world. If we allow ourselves to be open to the transformative power of prayer then we will always be focused on God’s mission in the world...

To nurture our relationship with God we simply must be people who pray.”1

Why do we pray? We pray to imitate Jesus, to answer the deeper longing of our hearts, to respond to that spiritual sense that is in all of us, to answer the call that God makes to us in our hearts.

1Sourced from the article: “Why Pray?” located at http://www.catchingfire.qld.edu.au/prayer_ritual_liturgy

THEPLACEOFSILENCEThe Church encourages silence

❱ before the Scripture readings❱ after each Scripture reading ❱ after the Breaking Open of the Word

Be still and know I am God Ps 46:10

http://www.catchingfire.qld.edu.au/prayer_ritual_liturgy


The Christian tradition comprises three major expressions of the life of prayer: vocal prayer, meditation, and contemplative prayer. They have in common the recollection of the heart.

(Catechism of the Catholic Church 2721)

EXPRESSIONS of PRAYER

Vocal Prayer

Traditional

e.g. Sign of the Cross, Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, The Rosary, Confiteor, Act of Contrition, The Angelus

Formal e.g. Psalms, traditional prayers

Informal e.g. spontaneous prayers and blessings

Meditative Prayer ChristianMeditatione.g. guided meditation using Scripture, Lectio Divina

Contemplative Prayer Contemplation e.g. silence, mantras

Other expressions which can incorporate

prayer

e.g. art, music, journaling, dance/movement.

These expressions of prayer can be incorporated into both private and communal prayer. Communal prayer is experienced through Liturgy or Prayer Services. Well designed prayer services are often fashioned by the shape or form of Liturgy.

COMMUNAL PRAYER


1.5 SUMMARY

Prayer

can be

CommunalPrayer

is either

PrivatePrayer

PrayerServices

can be

follows the

ShapeofLiturgy

OtherPrayerRituals

has

Liturgy-BasedPrayer

has aparticular

Introductory Rites

Liturgy of the Word

Liturgy of Eucharist

Dismissal & Blessing Rites

Gathering

Word

Symbol

Sending Forth

Liturgy

is the

OfficialpublicprayeroftheChurch

e.g.

TheMass

has 4 parts


2. PLANNING and CELEBRATING LITURGY and PRAYER SERVICES


2

Life-giving communal prayer…

Uses appropriate music and lyrics

Is adapted to the age, religious background and

experience of the students

Uses symbols in keeping with the liturgical season

Takes place in a prayerful setting

Is shaped by the Catholic Tradition

Uses inclusive language and is respectful of the

Catholic Tradition

Actively involves students in the planning, preparing

and celebrating with the teacher

2.1 LIFE-GIVING COMMUNAL PRAYER

Vatican II called for full, conscious and active participation in liturgical celebrations. This is the foundation for life-giving communal prayer.

It follows that students and teachers work collaboratively to plan, design and celebrate Liturgies and prayer services.

The following principles underpin life-giving communual prayer.

When planning Liturgies, teachers need to be faithful to the ritual and form as prescribed by the Church.


“A clear distinction should be made between prayer and reflection. Reflection can lead to prayer, but is not a substitute for prayer...Reflection involves thinking about things such as a story or an event; if it just stops there, it is not prayer... Prayer is about a relationship with God. …If the reflection moves to the next step and invites participants to pray spontaneous prayers arising from the story, or to spend some time in being aware of the presence of God, and then concludes with a prayer all participants can offer together, then it is prayer. To lead people to pray is to invite them to become aware of the presence of God in their own lives.”

(Beth Nolen, 2008, Prayer Strategies – A Teacher’s Manual, Farrar House Publishing, North Lakes, Qld, p.21)

PRAYER and REFLECTION


2.2 A STRUCTURE for COMMUNAL PRAYER

Structure (Liturgy shape) Elements Ideas to animate

Preparing and Gathering

(Introductory Rites)

Creation of the space

Gathering

Introduction, welcome

Prayer

Selecting liturgical colour, symbols for sacred space, music

Location – outdoors, Church

Welcoming; introducing theme, event or feast

Listening

(Proclamation of the Word)

Scripture/Sacred Story

Selecting Scripture of the day

Welcoming the Gospel, singing Alleluia/Lenten Acclamation

Proclaiming the Word through mime, storytelling, choral reading, puppetry, etc.

Reading a picture book, story or poem

Viewing a section of film etc.

Reflecting and Responding

(Symbol)

Reflection

Sharing

Response

Ritual action

Writing / Praying response

Participating in ritual action

Reflecting through visual images

Meditating / Silence

Sending Forth

(Dismissal Rites)

Final blessing

Song

Call to action

Procession

Singing

The celebration of the Eucharist is ‘the source and summit’ of Catholic liturgical life. When planning and celebrating prayer with students in the classroom the shape of Liturgy provides a framework: Introductory Rites (Gathering), Proclamation of the Word, Symbol and Dismissal Rites (Sending Forth).

Teachers can provide opportunities for students to bring their ordinary life to prayer.


2.3 CREATING the SACRED SPACE

Providing students with a visual focus for prayer is important in creating an environment for prayer. Teachers often have a space in their classroom set aside for prayer. The local church or an outdoor setting may be appropriate too.

Symbols

Symbols help create the space, and movement helps to focus our attention. Of their nature symbols do not need explaining; they can speak to people in their own way. Too many symbols can be distracting.A key symbol is ‘the people gathered’ - a living sign of God’s presence in the world.

Other significant symbols within the Catholic prayer tradition include:

• Crucifix • Art and icons• Cross • Objects from nature• Bible • Students’ work• Colour • Movement and dance• Candles • Other ritual actions• Water• Oil• Bread• Wine• The Stole

The Scriptures also suggest a variety of symbols and actions that inspire creative ritual (e.g. fire, earth, wheat, seeds, silence, greetings of peace). These symbols and the accompanying action are ways of drawing us into the sacred.

Symbols that are part of the sacramental life of the Church, such as blessing with oil, pouring water on the head, breaking bread, carry special significance in Liturgy. When preparing Prayer Services teachers and students need to honour that significance by avoiding the use of symbols and rituals pertaining to the sacramental action in Liturgy.


2.4 PRACTICAL HINTS for PRAYER

Planning

Communal prayer provides opportunities for students to participate in preparing, planning and celebrating.

Timing

Choose an appropriate time of the day to pray with students. Daily prayer does not have to be first thing in the morning.

Allow sufficient time for prayer.

Reverence

Prayer is sacred time. Encourage participation of all but remember it is not a performance.

Negotiate and establish appropriate guidelines for behaviour during prayer – and as a teacher model these behaviours.

Ensure there are no interruptions during prayer time e.g. place a ‘Do not Disturb” sign on the door.

Relevance

Select prayer experiences that are relevant to the age and stage of faith development of the students.

Variety

Provide and model a wide variety of prayer experiences such as: praying with Scripture, guided meditation, silent reflection, journal writing, creative expression, movement, traditional prayers, music, song or story.

Liturgical language

Bring liturgical language into daily prayer e.g.

• In the Catholic Tradition, prayer services commence with the invocation of the blessed Trinity. (Signing ourselves “In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen”)

• Greetings such as, “The Lord be with you”, are followed by the response, “And with your spirit”.

• Readings from Scripture (not the Gospels) conclude with, “The Word of the Lord”, and the response, “Thanks be to God”.

• Gospel readings conclude with, “The Gospel of the Lord”, and the response, “Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ”.

• Ending a prayer with, “We make this prayer through Christ our Lord” is followed by the response, “Amen”.


Composing prayers to God(Based on the article “Why Pray?” located at;www.catchingfire.qld.edu.au/prayer_ritual_liturgy)

You: We begin by naming and addressing God. e.g. ‘Loving God’, ‘God of wisdom and compassion’, ‘Merciful Father’

Who: We recognize who God is for us an act or quality of God. We recognize the relationship that exists between God and ourselves.

e.g. ‘Model of forgiveness’, ‘You guide and protect your people’

Do : We name what it is that we are asking God to do.

e.g. ‘Bless us as we…’, ‘Give comfort to…’, ‘Give us your strength and courage to…’, ‘Help us to…’

Through: We address our prayers to God through Christ. e.g. ‘We ask this through Christ our Lord’, ‘In the name of Jesus, your Son’, ‘In Jesus’ name’, ‘Through Jesus, our brother’.

Example1:

You: Loving God,

Who: who gives life to us and all creation,

Do: help us to share your love with others and care for your world.

Through: We ask this through Jesus our brother, who lives with you and the Holy Spirit. Amen

Example2: (an ‘on-the-spot’ grace)

You: Gracious God,

Who: all that we have is your gift to us.

Do: Bless this food that we will share together and those who have prepared it for our enjoyment.

Through: We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen


2.5 MUSIC

Music and song in prayer acknowledges the sacredness of the moment, encourages participation of the people and expresses our relationship with God.

When selecting music in liturgy and prayer consider all of the following:

Is it theological? Do the words of the songs reflect the wisdom and teachings of the Catholic Church? Are Christian values reinforced?

Is it liturgical? Do the songs and music fit the theme, celebration or liturgical season? Does it add to the beauty, dignity and prayerfulness of the celebration? Is there mindfulness of the song’s genre for the particular liturgical purpose?

Is it pastoral? Does the music connect with the students and provide opportunities for active participation?

Is it musical? Is the music technically, aesthetically and expressively good? Is the melody able to be sung without too much difficulty?

“Those who sing well pray twice.”

“Singing is for one who loves.”

St Augustine


Somewaystousemusicandsonginclassroomprayer:

Gathering• Quiet music as people gather• A song to begin the celebration

Reflecting, Responding and Praying• A song or music reflecting the message of the Scripture

Concluding• A song to enthuse and energise• A song to send forth in hope.

There are many contemporary music resources available to Catholic schools. The development of a shared repertoire between the parish and school is strongly recommended.

In the context of prayer, Liturgy and worship, music is about participation, not performance. Songs from popular culture are appealing to students but care needs to be taken to ensure that their message fits the Gospel message.

“Singing is of great importance in all celebrations, but it is to be especially encouraged in every way for Masses celebrated with Children, in view of their special affinity for music. The culture of various groups and the capabilities of the children

present should be taken into account.”

(Directory for Masses with children n.30)


2.6 PRAYING SCRIPTURE

The classroom setting provides opportunities for meditation and reflection on Scripture. Throughout the liturgical year the readings of the day are arranged so that Christians can participate in the life of Christ.(See the Lectionary which contains the cycle of Scripture intended for liturgical use, or Daily Mass Book which gives references for the readings for the day). While we may teach in themes, we encounter God in everyday life. Using the readings of the day helps in this encounter. If the readings of the day are not suitable for a particular year level, the readings of the previous or following Sunday may be used. The readings may also contain symbols and actions that can be incorporated into prayer.

The Catholic Tradition has a rich history of praying the

Scriptures through:

❱ Guided meditation

❱ Contemplation

❱ Lectio Divina

❱ Liturgy of the Hours.


PRAYING SCRIPTURE: example

Teacher Preparation

Select the passage to be used, and read it aloud a number of times.Think about what you have read, and try to give answers to the following questions:

• What does this passage tell me about Jesus?• How does it encourage me to live my life?• What does it say to me about my relationship with God/

Jesus/family/Church/Parish?• In what way will my life change because of what I have

read?• Is there anything in this passage that challenges me? If so,

can I work out why?

Praying Scripture with Students

Proclaim the reading and allow a few moments of silence.Lead the students to reflect on what they have heard by using the following (or similar) questions:

• What word or phrase stood out for you in the reading? Is there a particular word or phrase that you remember?

• What did the reading tell you about Jesus?• What was challenging about the story?• Why do you think the writer told the story this way? How

would you feel if you were … (the name of one of the characters in the reading)?

• Can you think of a time in your own life when you felt the same as … (character in reading)?

• How do you think Jesus wants us to act, now that we have heard this reading?


2.7 PRAYING OUTDOORS

Praying outdoors can be an ‘action’ prayer.

At the time of the gifts being brought to the altar in the celebration of Mass, the priest prays over the gifts saying that they are the gifts of the earth and the work of human hands.

A prayer service which focuses on our relationship with creation can be experienced on a retreat or camp, or in the school grounds. The following prayer service invites students and staff to reflect on the wonder of God’s creation and human endeavour.

Process:o Students are invited outdoors and asked to focus on a

specific part of the created world i.e. a specific object (not a wide panorama).

o Students journal what they observe.

The following questions may be helpful:

What drew you to this particular part of the created world?Is it a gift of the earth? Is it the product of human labour?How does it speak of the wonder of God?How does it speak of the dignity of human work?

• A photograph is taken of each student’s ‘sacred object’. • Through a PowerPoint presentation, these gifts of the earth

and work of human hands are brought to prayer.


PRAYING OUTDOORS: exampleGathering:

(L) In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. All: Amen

(L) Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation

Students are now invited to go outside, and quietly ‘be’ with a specific object that catches their imagination. Allow about 10 minutes for this. The teacher may take photos (close up) of the object the student is observing.

Re-gathering:

Music can be played as the photos are shown to the students.

Prayer reflection: Psalm 104 (abridged) (L) Bless the LORD, O my soul.

O LORD my God, you are very great.You are clothed with honour and majesty, wrapped in light as with a garment. You set the earth on its foundationsYou make springs gush forth in the valleys;they flow between the hills, giving drink to every wild animal; the wild animals quench their thirst. By the streams the birds of the air have their habitation;they sing among the branches. You cause the grass to grow for the cattle,and plants for people to use,to bring forth food from the earth,oil to make the face shine, and bread to strengthen the human heart.The trees of the LORD are watered abundantly,the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.In them the birds build their nestsO LORD, how manifold are your works!In wisdom you have made them all;the earth is full of your creatures.

All Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit:

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen


The seasons of the Liturgical Year find expression in the Lectionary text, as they reflect upon the story of Jesus’ life and ministry. They focus especially on the paschal mystery: the death and resurrection of Christ.

In Advent, Catholics and many other Christian denominations prepare for the coming of Christ. As the season before the celebration of the birth of Jesus at Christmas, it is a time of expectant waiting and preparation which commemorates the ancient longing for the coming of the Messiah and prepares for the Second Coming of Christ. The colours are violet and purple; the mood is one of hope and anticipation. It is also penitential asking that our paths be made straight to prepare the way of the Lord. At Christmas, Christians celebrate the coming of the Christ as an historical person and as the Son of God, and into their lives today. The colours are white and gold; the mood is joyous.

During Ordinary Time, between Christmas and Lent, Catholics focus on Jesus’ call of his disciples and his ministry of healing. The colour is green; the mood is calmer and more operative. There is work to be done.

During Lent, Catholics prepare for Holy Week and the Easter season ahead. The colour is purple. The mood – as they look ahead to the cycle of suffering, death and resurrection – is pensive and penitential. They recall their own Baptism as they prepare to welcome new members into the Church at the Easter Vigil.

During the Easter season, which extends from Easter Sunday through to Pentecost, Catholics celebrate the mystery of the resurrection and embrace the necessity of carrying on Jesus’ work. The colour is white; the mood is not the bubbly joy of the innocent but the deep joy of one who has seen suffering and death and triumphed.

During the post-Pentecost Ordinary Time, Catholics again focus on the everyday work of bringing Christ into the world in practical ways. The emphasis is on the continuing ministry of Jesus in our context. The colour is green.

During the Liturgical Year there are many feasts, such as Easter Sunday, the Annunciation, the Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi), the Transfiguration, Sacred Heart, St Mary of the Cross MacKillop and the Assumption. The Ordo is a resource which clarifies which feast has precedence when feast days and/or Sundays overlap.

2.8 THE LITURGICAL YEAR of the CHURCH


Purple: Seasons of Advent and Lent

White: Seasons of Christmas and Easter

Green: Season of Ordinary Time of the Church’s Year

Red: Pentecost, Good Friday, Feasts of Apostles and Martyrs

The Liturgical Year

ADVENT CHRISTMAS ORDINARY TIME LENT

EASTER

ORD

INAR

Y TI

ME

Pent

ecos

t

Epip

hany

Ash Wednesday

Holy Thursday

Good Friday

Holy WeekEaster Sunday

Christ The King Chr

istm

as D

ay

All Saints Day1st Sunday of Advent


“for where two or three are gathered

together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” MATTHEW 18:20

2.9 TRADITIONAL PRAYERS in CROSSWAYS

The Church has a rich tradition of prayer which includes many formal prayers. In planning and celebrating prayer teachers have a responsibility to pass on this tradition to students. The table below indicates the appropriate prayers for each standard for learning in RE and in the practice of prayer.

YearSuggested Traditional Prayers

Skills and Dispositions with prayer

Related Learning in RECrossways Outcome for Key Idea 10

Rec.Sign of the Cross

Grace before Meals

As a person of prayer the student is able to use simple gestures during prayer and ritual. The student uses skills to pray in different ways, with a sense of reverence for sacred space.

P.10 Becomes familiar with the pattern and purpose of prayer.

1 & 2

Hail Mary

Lord’s Prayer

Some responses at Mass

As a person of prayer the student is open to a personal relationship with God, a sense of reverence for holy space and joy in the experience of prayer. The student develops skills for setting up and celebrating simple prayer services.

1.10: Identifies and discusses a number of ways of praying and different kinds of individual and communal prayer.

3 & 4

Act of Sorrow (Contrition)

Glory Be

Morning Offering

Renewal of Baptismal promises

The Rosary

As a person of prayer the student appreciates the power of a variety of prayer forms and desires to be involved in the sharing of prayer and the celebration of liturgy. The student is able to organize different prayer experiences, with an understanding of the ways in which Scripture is used in liturgical celebrations.

2.10 Examines a variety of liturgical celebrations and prayers and explains how prayer is a dynamic encounter with God.

5 & 6Angelus

Responses used during Mass

As a person of prayer the student is able to locate and research Jesus’ teachings on prayer in the Gospels. The student appreciates movement, music and art as a means of prayer, and silence/reflection as leading to spiritual nourishment. Students work collaboratively to develop prayer experiences using traditional and original prayer forms and symbols.

3.10 Examines Gospel teachings on prayer and explores prayer through drama, art, movement and Scripture.

7- 12

The Creeds of the Church (Apostles’ and Nicene)

Other prayers of the tradition such as Peace Prayer of St Francis

As a person of prayer the student is able to enter into a space of meditation. The student understands the use of Scripture in prayer and is able to lead class and school celebrations. The student understands liturgy as the prayer of the Church.

4.10 Critically reflects on how the core elements of liturgy and prayer such as gathering, listening, responding and proclaiming, express the goodness and faithfulness of God.


Our Catholic schools are blessed with people who come from a variety of religious backgrounds. While most students are Roman Catholic, there are children and families who belong to Eastern Catholic Churches, other Christian communities and other faiths. Catholic schools, as part of the Church, are called to renew and make relevant all that is central to Catholic faith, in respectful dialogue with contemporary culture and the rich pluralistic nature of our communities.

Vatican II’s Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy (n.14) encourages the full, conscious and active participation of the faithful in liturgical celebrations. When preparing and celebrating liturgy and prayer services, teachers need to be mindful of the diverse religious backgrounds represented in their classrooms. This calls for a wisdom which promotes an unambiguous Catholic identity of the school, honours the Catholic Tradition and respects the faiths and religious backgrounds of all students.

The Universal Church – East and WestWhile most Catholics in South Australia belong to the Roman Catholic Church, there are some who belong to the Eastern Churches within the Catholic Church. Eastern Catholics in SA include Ukranian Catholics, Syro-Malabar Catholics, Maronites and Melkites and their liturgical celebrations differ in language, ritual, music and vestments from Roman Catholic liturgy. In the Eastern traditions, the three Sacraments of Initiation are celebrated together, usually during infancy. Eastern Catholics may receive Holy Communion at any Catholic celebration of the Eucharist. For further information, please consult

• Eastern Catholics in Australia (1997 Australian Catholic Bishops Conference) available online at www.catholica.com.au/misc/EasternCatholics.pdf

• To Breathe again with Two lungs: A resource for Religious Educators about Eastern Catholic Churches (1999 Catholic Education Office Melbourne)

• Breathing with Both Lungs – The Eastern Catholic Churches (Inform: faith and life matters number 125, 2010)

2.10 Considerations for Students from other Traditions and Faiths

www.catholica.com.au/misc/EasternCatholics.pdf


Other Christian Communities Catholic schools include students and adults from other Christian communities (e.g. Anglican, Uniting, Greek Orthodox). One of the primary goals of the Second Vatican Council was to promote ecumenism. The word ‘ecumenism’ is based on the New Testament words ‘oikos’ (household) and ‘oikumene’ which refers to the whole world, and so the ‘ecumenical movement’ which emerged during the twentieth century seeks the unity of Christians world-wide. In his Encyclical Letter (Ut Unum Sint) John Paul II said, “The Catholic Church embraces with hope the commitment to ecumenism as a duty of the Christian conscience enlightened by faith and guided by love” (n.8). The challenge for Catholic schools is to be sensitive to the diversity of Christian faith among the students whilst acknowledging that the celebration of the Eucharist, including the Liturgy of the Word, is a time of Catholic prayer.

The Catholic Church encourages ecumenical dialogue, which concerns relationships between the Christian churches:There increases from day to day the movement, fostered by the grace of the Holy Spirit, for the restoration of unity among all Christians. (Unitatis Redintegratio n.1; Vatican II’s Decree on Ecumenism)

Other FaithsCatholic schools include students and adults from other faiths and religions. These include Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim students to name a few. The Catholic Church rejects nothing that is true and holy in these religions. It regards with sincere reverence those ways of conduct and of life, those precepts and teachings which, though differing in many aspects from the ones it holds and sets forth, nonetheless often reflect a ray of that Truth which enlightens all. (Nostra Aetate n.2; Vatican II’s Decree on The Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions)

Some considerationsThe Code of Canon Law of the Catholic Church states: “It is never lawful for anyone to force others to embrace the Catholic faith against their conscience.” (can.748 #2). This supports the Declaration on Religious Freedom of the Second Vatican Council which states: “The individual must not be forced to act against conscience nor be prevented from acting according to conscience, especially in religious matters.” (n.3)


In the Congregation for Catholic Education’s document, The Religious Dimension of Education in Catholic School, there is the recognition that not all students in Catholic schools are Catholic and it goes on to say in this context:“The religious freedom and the personal conscience of individual students and their families must be respected, and this freedom is explicitly recognised by the Church. On the other hand, a Catholic school cannot relinquish its own freedom to proclaim the Gospel and to offer a formation based on the values to be found in a Christian education; this is its right and its duty. To proclaim or to offer is not to impose, however; the latter suggests a moral violence which is strictly forbidden, both by the Gospel and by Church law” (n.8).

The challenge for Catholic schools is to respect the cultural and religious background of all students and promote the Catholic identity of the school in this context. The following statement from the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People may assist schools in developing a positive inclusion policy: “Catholic schools must not renounce their own characteristics and Christian-oriented educational programs when children of another religion are accepted. Parents wishing to enrol their children should be clearly informed of this. At the same time no pupil must be compelled to take part in a Catholic liturgy or to perform actions contrary to his or her religious convictions”. ‘Erga migrantes caritas Christi’ (The Love of Christ towards migrants), 2004 n. 62.

Some principles• All are welcome to pray together. Through access to communal prayer

(prayer services and Liturgies) in Catholic schools, all students are invited and encouraged to grow in their own faith whether it is Catholic or not. This calls for a wisdom which promotes an unambiguous Catholic identity of the school, honours the Catholic Tradition and respects the faiths and religious backgrounds of all students.

➢ While the Catholic school has the mission to proclaim the Gospel and to offer a formation based on the Catholic values, the school community respects the faith positions of students and their families from other denominations or faiths, and consequently the proselytisation (conversion) of these students to the Catholic faith should not be sought by the school community.

➢ While parents have chosen a Catholic education for their child with the knowledge that the life of Catholic school will involve prayer services and Liturgies, the way this communal prayer is conducted can hold together the respect of religious freedom and the expectation of appropriate student participation in the school’s prayer life. Students can never be forced to participate in a manner which requires personal faith assent to Catholic faith and practice that is against their will.


• Welcomed to pray as part of the school community, the presence of students of other faiths and Christian denominations at prayer services and Liturgies is valued and important. While it would be reasonable for the school to expect all students to attend communal prayer, a student’s participation in the prayer itself always needs to be a free response to the invitation to participate. In general what might be an appropriate activity for students who are Christians will differ from what is appropriate for students of other faiths. This is because the faith that Roman Catholics have in Jesus Christ and his saving death and resurrection is shared with other Christians but not with people of other faiths.

➢ While attending communal prayer, students of other faiths and Christian denominations do not have to participate in the prayer but could be encouraged to use the time to pray quietly in their own way and be invited to participate where appropriate. For example, a Muslim or Greek Orthodox student would normally be present at an Ash Wednesday liturgy but, unless the student chose to, would not come up for the ash blessing nor respond with the prayers. (There might be occasions when the school might also need to use discretion should a student from another faith or Christian denomination

ask not to be present at communal prayer, particularly Liturgies.)

• With prayer services which are not Liturgy, there is significant scope for the participation of all students in various roles. Care and sensitivity need to still be exercised to balance the invitational inclusion of all, the respect of the diverse religious backgrounds and freedom, and the Catholic identity underpinning all communal prayer.

• With regard to Liturgy and in particular the Mass, there are certain expectations that the Church has set out. Pastoral care and discretion need to be exercised as these expectations are held together with the local context and with the desires expressed by students who are not Catholic, particularly with young students seeking to be involved in particular ways.

➢ The Eucharist is a memorial celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus and as such is “the summit and source” of the Church’s life and mission. The Eucharist is the climax of Christian initiation and Catholics who are fully initiated can partake in Holy Communion. In Catholic schools, the celebration of the Mass welcomes the attendance of all including those not fully initiated into the Church and those who are not Catholic.

➢ The Directory for Masses with Children states that “The principles of active and conscious participation are in a sense even more significant for Masses celebrated with children. Every effort should therefore be made to increase this participation and to make it more intense. For this reason as many children as possible should have special parts in the celebration” (n.22).


➢ There are opportunities for the voluntary participation in particular liturgical roles for all students including children who are not Catholic. Examples include entrance procession, singing, after communion reflection. The Church teaches that leadership and liturgical ministries in its liturgical assembly, such as being reader of the Liturgy of the Word or a Special Minister of the Eucharist, belong to those who are baptized in the Catholic Church1. (In a similar way, for example, it would not be appropriate for a senior student who was not Catholic to assist with the distribution of ashes at an Ash Wednesday liturgy). Catholics schools need to exercise pastoral wisdom in how students are selected for roles in ways that hold together a welcoming celebration of Liturgy and Church norms. In celebrations of the Mass with young students, the teachers would have some discretion with the selection of readers which also takes into account the desires of students wanting to read.

• While there are appropriate ways to sensitively explore and learn about the rituals of other faiths in educational settings (to pursue Crossways Learning Outcomes), it would not normally be appropriate for these rituals to be conducted in Catholic schools as a form of prayer or as re-enactment in a manner which invites students not of that faith into an actual sacred space of participatory prayer.

Schools are encouraged to work with parents, students and staff to ensure these principles are understood by all participants.

1. According to the Directory for the Application of Principles and Norms on Ecumenism an Eastern Christian (ie from an Orthodox Church) may be invited to be a reader (n.126), and the Bishop may permit in special circumstances other Christians to be a reader (n.133).


3. EXAMPLES of LITURGY and PRAYER


3

3.1 LITURGY of the WORD

BACKGROUND

Christians have always gathered to read and be nourished by the Word of God. The purpose of the Liturgy of the Word is to open up the Scriptures - to enable people to listen, reflect and make meaning in their own lives. The Liturgy of the Word is a dialogue between God and the assembled community. It is one of the major components of the Mass but can be celebrated as a liturgy in its own right.

KEY ELEMENTS

• Sacred Space (prepare the prayer space)• Gathering (welcome, gathering song)• First Reading and Responsorial Psalm (optional)

The First Reading concludes with, “The Word of the Lord”, and the response, “Thanks be to God”.

• Second Reading (optional) The Second Reading concludes with, “The Word of the Lord”, and the response, “Thanks be to God”.

• Gospel Acclamation (ideally sung)• Gospel

Gospel readings conclude with, “The Gospel of the Lord”, and the response, “Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ”.

• Breaking Open the Word (e.g. ‘Godly Play’, reflection, role-play, PowerPoint)

• Prayer of the Faithful (prayers of petition placed before God to express concern for the parish community and the wider world)

• Sending Forth

Approved translations of Scripture for Liturgy

The New Revised Standard Version of the BibleJerusalem Bible

New American BibleGood News Bible

Children’s Lectionary


LITURGY of the WORD: example 1

Gathering

Decorate the sacred space with words and symbols reflecting the students’ uniqueness. Set a focus table with Bible, candles, cloth, family photos and a large mirror.Display a large banner: “DISCOVERING me - Thank you God”

Students wear a “Me” badge, depicting words/pictures about themselves.

Introduction

Welcome to our celebration.

Boys: “We want to thank God because we are boys.”

Girls: “We want to thank God because we are girls.”

All: “We all thank God because we are God’s Family.”

Through our Baptism we have been given the chance to bring the spirit of Jesus to everyone we meet. Please join in our Gathering song.

Gathering Song:

First Reading: (e.g. Isaiah 43: 1-5 “I have called you by name, you are mine.”)

Response to the First Reading: (e.g. Psalm 116:1-2, 5 and 12)Response: Now I will walk at your side.

Gospel Acclamation: (sung not spoken; omit if not singing)Alleluia (not during Lent)

Gospel: (e.g. Gospel of the day or Mark 10:13-16 Jesus welcomes the children)

Breaking Open the Word:Students celebrate positive traits: “I love being a girl/boy because I am able to …”

Prayer of the Faithful:

Oh Lord (before We pray for the Church…)Dear God (before We pray for families…)

We pray for the Church throughout the world.May we be one, unique and unrepeatable sign of God’s Love.Lord hear us. R. Lord hear our prayer.

We pray for families,In the similarities and differences we share, let us celebrate life.Lord hear us. R. Lord hear our prayer.

We pray for ourselves,As we keep growing and discovering, let us always be thankful. Lord hear us. R. Lord hear our prayer.

We pray for all those who have asked for our prayers.(Pause) Lord hear us. R. Lord hear our prayer.

The Lord’s Prayer

Concluding Prayer:

God of Love, May the sense of unity and uniqueness we have shared in this liturgy help us to live as brothers and sisters. Let us go now in peace to bring love, peace and joy to everyone we meet.Amen


LITURGY of the WORD: example 2

Gathering

Arrange seating in a circle around a sacred space that includes the Bible, candle, and coloured cloth.

Introduction

Today we gather to reflect on the message of Jesus. We are the hands of God, the face of God, and the voice of God to each other. We are called to treat everyone with respect and compassion.

Gathering Song

Let us bring our minds and hearts to God as we sing …

Gospel Acclamation

Gospel The Gospel of the day is preferred. Sunday readings may be used.

Breaking Open the WordThink about a time when you reached out to someone in need. Through us, God brings healing to the sick and needy.

Reader: You are my hands to reach out to my people.

All: I am the hands of God.Reader: You are my voice to tell my

people I love them.All: I am the voice of God.Reader: You are my eyes to see and

guide my people.All: I am the face of God.

I now invite you to bless the hands of the person next to you and say “[Name]…you are the face of God to me”.

Prayer of the Faithful

The Holy Spirit brings us together to form a community that works, prays and plays together.

We pray that we are ‘welcoming people’ always searching for ways to reach out to others in love. God of Justice, hear us. R. God of Justice, hear our prayer.

We pray for the people in our world who are victims of poverty and exploitation. May we find ways to bring the message of Jesus to our world. God of Justice, hear us. R. God of Justice, hear our prayer.

The Lord’s Prayer

Sending Forth


3.2 PENITENTIAL SERVICE

BACKGROUND‘Penance’ refers to the practices of prayer, fasting and works of charity as means of furthering conversion. It is also the name given to the sacrament in which God forgives our sins through the person of the priest. Through the sacrament of Penance, also called the sacrament of Reconciliation, the Church assists us in seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with God and each other. While the sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation requires a priest to administer it, any gathering of Christians can celebrate a Penitential/Reconciliation Service.

KEY ELEMENTS

PreparationA key focus may come from a unit of work, school/class issue, liturgical season or world event.

Gathering Song

Opening Prayer

Scripture ReadingSelect one reading relevant to the focus.

Breaking Open the WordThis could be a homily, guided reflection, drama, PowerPoint or song.

Examination of Conscience*The community members reflect upon their own lives in response to the Gospel through a series of questions or statements, allowing time for personal reflection.The Ten Commandments, Micah 6:8 or Matthew 22:36-39 (Jesus’ command to love God and neighbour) may form the basis for this reflection.

Prayer of Sorrow*This is a communal prayer expressing sorrow for our failings and praise for God’s forgiveness.

Concluding Rites• Prayers of Intercession

(optional)• Lord’s Prayer• Sign of Peace (may lead into

a prayer and song of praise for God’s mercy)

• Concluding Prayer• Blessing and Song

Sending Forth

(*See the Rite of Penance for ideas for Examination of Conscience and Prayers of Sorrow/Contrition)


PENITENTIAL SERVICE: example(Focus: Refugees in Australia)

PreparationPrepare a PowerPoint presentation depicting the rich and varied cultures of our refugees.

Gathering Song

PowerPoint presentationStudents bring candles to the altar/table for each country represented.

Opening PrayerGod of Welcome,You call us to treat others with respect and compassion and to be inclusive of all. As we embrace the people who have been forced to flee their own country and settle among us, help us to recognise the ways we have not been as welcoming as we should. Amen.

Scripture Reading Select one reading relevant to the focus e.g. Luke 10:25-37

Breaking Open the WordThe following questions may help students to reflect on the difficulties refugees encounter in a new and strange country:

• How would it feel to leave family and friends behind and live with strangers?

• What would it be like to have few or no possessions?

• How would it feel to be surrounded by people speaking another language?

• What would need to be learnt in a new country?

Examination of Conscience Christ taught us that we should love others as ourselves and that all people are our brothers and sisters. So when we act in hurtful ways towards them, we are not abiding by the teachings of Jesus.Let us now think of the times when we have not accepted others.

Prayer of Sorrow Act of Contrition or spontaneous prayer (See Section 6)

Concluding PrayerGod of Unity, As we go forth to our classroom may we be people of compassion and inclusivity. Help us to welcome others with generosity and warmth, especially those who have been forced to leave their homelands. Amen.

Blessing

Sending Forth


3.3 LITURGY of the HOURS

The Liturgy of the Hours is a daily prayer which is part of the official worship of the Church. Traditionally small communities gathered at specified times of the day to praise and thank God, using the sacred Scriptures, hymns and psalms. This practice became known as The Liturgy of the Hours, or the Divine Office. The practice of praying The Liturgy of the Hours, once the public prayer of the Church, became the domain of the Clergy and those in Religious Orders. One of the goals of liturgical renewal of the Second Vatican Council was to reclaim the daily prayer of the Church for the whole people of God.

Today the Liturgy of the Hours is prayed throughout the world, lifting up the world to God in prayer. Whether prayed alone or in the context of community, the prayer unites us as one world-wide Church community.

KEY ELEMENTS

Gathering of the Community• The Liturgy of the Hours

is prayed by alternating between one side of the assembly and the other, and people should be invited to sit accordingly.

Invitation to Prayer• A few remarks to introduce

the liturgy may be helpful but are not necessary. A procession may be suitable for special occasions. The Liturgy may begin directly with the invitation to prayer.

Psalm of Praise• The Psalms may be sung or

said in unison by the whole community, or alternated between two sides of the community, or between the community and the leader. Each Psalm is followed by a period of silence.

Scripture Reading

Reflection (A moment of silence).

Canticle• A canticle is a song of praise

to God taken from one of the books of Scripture apart from the book of Psalms.

The Canticle of Zechariah (Luke 1:68-79) is used for Morning Prayer and the Canticle of Mary (Luke 1:46-55) for Evening Prayer.

Prayers of Intercession • The form of intercessions

given in the Liturgy of the Hours is different from that of the Mass liturgy. It may be more like a litany.

The Lord’s Prayer

Concluding Prayer• This may be taken from the

Opening Prayer of the Mass of the day.

Blessing and Sending Forth• The blessing uses one of the

formulas composed for the Liturgy of the Hours.

BACKGROUND


LITURGY of the HOURS: example

Create a sacred space. This may include candles, incense, cloths which reflect the colour of the liturgical season, and the Bible.

Gathering Song

Invitation to Prayer

Leader: Lord open my lips.Response: And my mouth will proclaim your praise.Leader: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.Response: As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen

Psalm of Praise

Psalm 8 (or the Responsorial Psalm of the day with its response)Response: “O Lord our God how great is your name through all the earth.”

Scripture Reading

Reflection Silence

Canticle Luke 1: 68 - 79

Prayers of Intercession

Leader: Let us praise Christ in whom is the fullness of grace.All: Grant us your Spirit.Leader: We praise you, God, and we thank you for all your blessings.All: Grant us your Spirit.Leader: Give us peace of mind and generosity of heart.

All: Grant us your Spirit.Leader: May your love be with us, guide us in our work.All: Grant us your Spirit.Leader: Be with those who have asked for our prayers.All: Grant us your Spirit.

The Lord’s Prayer

Sign of Peace

Concluding Prayer

Leader: God of all people, We praise you for giving us new life in Jesus your Son. Fill us with the warmth of your love so our lives may be a reflection of you in the world. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. All: Amen Sending Forth


3.4 SERVICE of HEALING

BACKGROUND

An important part of Jesus’ life was his healing ministry. Jesus reached out to people who were suffering in body and mind with love and compassion.

This service offers opportunities to experience the healing touch of Jesus, to pray for those who need healing, and to reflect on the importance of being a healing presence in our world.

KEY ELEMENTSGathering of the community

• To provide support for those who are in need of healing, to remind them that they are not alone

The Word • First Reading (optional)

• Psalm (optional)

• Gospel Acclamation

• Gospel Reading

• Breaking open the Word

• Prayer of the Faithful

Rite of Healing – symbols may be used e.g.o the cross - as the sign of reconciliation and healing for the

Christian community

o a stone - to hold and then place in water to symbolize our bringing hardness of heart to the waters of Baptism

Litany

• A series of short prayers, formally asking God or Jesus for healing

Concluding Rite

• Concluding Prayer

• Final Blessing

• Sending Forth


SERVICE of HEALING: example

Gathering

Students sit in a circle. Place a Bible, candle and cross in the centre of the sacred space.

Introduction

Today we gather to celebrate the healing presence of God in the world, as we are reminded of Jesus’ healing ministry. Jesus reached out to people who were suffering with love and compassion. We too can experience this healing touch. Gathering Song

Greeting

We begin by making the sign of the cross.

Penitential Rite

Confiteor (See Section 5 Formal Prayers)

Opening Prayer

Healing God,You sent your Son Jesus to show us how to show your love and compassion. Hear us as we ask for your loving help, and seek the wholeness that comes from your Word.Amen

Gospel

Read a healing story or the Gospel of the day followed by quiet reflection or guided meditation.

Breaking Open the Word

In silence, pass a wooden cross around the circle, allowing each student to bring their pain to the cross of Christ.

Our Father

Sign of Peace

Concluding Prayer

God of Compassion, You offer us the gift of healing and peace. May we who celebrate your healing touch reach out to others with love. Amen


3.5 RITUAL of LIGHT

BACKGROUND

The Ritual of Light is a key element of the Easter Vigil which is celebrated on Easter Saturday night.The Easter Vigil is the climax of the Liturgical Year. This is the night when we fill the Church with light, recall the story of salvation, renew our Baptismal Promises, and celebrate the Risen Christ.

In the story of creation, light becomes a sign of God’s presence. Without light, creation would be in darkness and chaos. The themes of light and darkness permeate the Scriptures and the Christian tradition. For the peoples of the First Testament, the Law of Moses, the Wisdom of God and the Word of God are the source of light for God’s people. With light comes life, holiness and joy. With darkness comes death, evil and sadness.

In the Gospels, Jesus is ‘the light of the world’ (John 8:12) and invites us to be ‘the light of the world’ (Matthew 5:14).In Luke’s gospel, the shepherds are immersed in the light of God (2:1-18).In Matthew’s account, the light of the star leads the magi to Jesus (2:1-12).John’s gospel declares that Jesus is ‘the light of the world’ (8:12).

In the Church’s liturgical year, the seasons of Advent and Lent/Easter journey with the themes of light/darkness. Light stands for all that enlightens humanity’s path to God.

The Church, through the Second Vatican Council, encourages Christians to see themselves as the light of the world. They are called to holiness and prophetic witness.

KEY ELEMENTS

Fire • We recall the blessing of

the fire that occurred at the Easter Vigil.

The Paschal Candle

• The signs and symbols of the Paschal Candle, including the Greek letters of alpha and omega and the numerals of the current year, as well as the five points of the cross, which recall the wounds of Christ (the hands, feet and side of Christ), are explained.

• The sign of the cross is traced on the paschal candle and someone is invited to light it while a prayer is recited.

Sharing the light

• The light of Christ is passed to those present.


RITUAL of LIGHT: example(Focus: Blessing class candles from the Paschal Candle)

This ritual is adapted from the Easter Vigil and is best celebrated in the parish Church, using the Paschal Candle as a prayer focus.

Greeting and Introduction

Today we come together as our school community to share the light of Christ from the Paschal Candle.

The Paschal Candle

We recall that the Pascal Candle was lit from the Easter fire, a sign of hope, light and life for God’s people.

A student traces the sign of the cross on the Paschal Candle; another proclaims:

Trace the vertical arm of cross Christ yesterday and todayTrace the horizontal arm The beginning and the endAlpha, above the cross AlphaOmega, below the cross And omegaFirst numeral, upper left corner All time belongs to himSecond numeral, upper right corner And all the agesThird numeral, lower left corner To him be glory and powerLast numeral, lower right corner Through every age for ever. Amen.

Scripture readingJohn 8:12 or Matthew 5:14-16 (During the Easter season use the Gospel of the day.)

Procession / sharing the lightIndividual class candles are lit from the paschal candle.

Final prayer of thanksgivingCandles are carried to classrooms.

1 By his holy2 And glorious wounds3 May Christ our Lord4 Guard us5 And keep us. Amen.

1

4 2 5

3


3.6 LITURGY of BLESSING

BACKGROUND

A tradition of blessing is based upon Scripture. God is seen as the source of all goodness, the perfect blessing. Jesus Christ is the epiphany of God’s blessing in the fullness of human personhood. Jesus gives substance to God’s blessing with the example of his own life. The healings, the feeding of people, the meals with his disciples – all have blessings at their foundation.

“… every baptized person is called to be a “blessing” and to bless. Hence lay people may preside at certain blessings; the more a blessing concerns ecclesial and sacramental life, the more is its administration reserved to the ordained ministry (bishops, priests, or deacons). (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1669)

KEY ELEMENTS

Invitation to prayer

• These prayers and statements set the scene and highlight the focus of the blessing. They usually include a response.

Scripture• The reading of the Word is

integral to a blessing liturgy and Scripture passages that focus on the blessing theme can be chosen.

Intercessions or common prayer

Blessing prayer and gesture

• A common gesture is to bow one’s head and pray for God’s blessing. The leader then extends his/her right hand (or both hands) over the person(s) or object(s) to be blessed and prays the prayer of blessing (except when leading with the Sign of the Cross). In some cases a group may extend their hands over the person(s) or object(s) to be blessed.

• When a lay person is leading the blessing the words used are in the first person plural (e.g. “May God bless us…”), as distinct from when an ordained minister blesses, in which case the words used are in the second person plural (e.g. “May God bless you…”).

• Another common symbol is holy water which is sprinkled in the Rite of Blessing.

• Sample prayers of blessing are found in the Roman Missal. There are also books of blessings available. These may be adapted for classroom use.

Formal Blessings of school staff, buildings etc.

Prayers for such occasions can be found in the Church’s ‘Book of Blessings’.

(Catholic Church, US National Conference of Catholic Bishops, Book of Blessings, Catholic Book Publishing, NY, 1989)


LITURGY of BLESSING: example (Focus: Belonging – we belong to a family, school and parish community)

This Liturgy is suitable for welcoming the Reception/new students at the beginning of the year or may be adapted for students leaving school at the end of the year.

PreparationDesign a ‘tree of life’ (or vine) and write the names of each new student on a leaf shape.

Gathering Song

Welcome

Opening prayer:

God our Friend,You welcome children and bless them with your love. Open our hearts and minds to celebrate your goodness. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Gospel Reading

Mark 10:13-16 (Jesus blesses the children)


We pray for all who are new to our school community. May we welcome them with love.God of Blessing, hear us. God of Blessing, hear our prayer.

We pray for all the students of (school). May they continue to grow in wisdom.God of Blessing, hear us. God of Blessing, hear our prayer.

We pray for all those who witness to the love and life that God gives to each of us. God of Blessing, hear us. God of Blessing, hear our prayer.

The Lord’s Prayer

Blessing

Reception/new students come forward and place their names on a branch of the tree (or vine). Other students extend their right hands as a gesture of blessing for the new students.

May God bless us and keep us. All: AmenMay the face of God shine upon us and be gracious to us. All: AmenMay God look upon us with kindness and give us peace. All: Amen

(Based on Numbers 6:24-26)


3.7 LITURGY of the WORD for a deceased member of the school community

BACKGROUNDSometimes school communities experience the death of a student, staff member or a member of a family associated with the school. This liturgy is based on the Order of Christian Funerals.

This Liturgy may be adapted for ANZAC Day (April 25th) and All Soul’s Day (Nov 1st).

KEY ELEMENTS

• Sacred Space (prepare the prayer space) • Gathering (welcome, gathering song)• First Reading and Responsorial Psalm (optional;

first reading followed by a moment of silence)• Gospel Acclamation (sung)• Gospel• Breaking Open the Word • Prayer of the Faithful (prayers of petition placed before

God to express concern for the parish community and the wider world)

• Sending Forth

This structure can be adapted to suit various age groups, cultures and contexts.

Death and grief calls us to be respectful of the sensitivities and needs of all.

The following insights which underpin Catholic Funeral Rites may be helpful in designing a Liturgy of the Word for a deceased member of the school community.

Christian funerals are often described as celebrations of the life of a deceased person. While this is true, they are much more. The celebration of a Christian funeral is grounded in the Passover of Christ from death to life. The Church:

• worships, praises and thanks God for the gift of life;• prays for the forgiveness of the sins of the deceased;• brings hope and consolation to the living.


LITURGY of the WORD: example

Sacred Space

The sacred space can be very simple: Bible, candles, flowers. A white cloth symbolizes Baptism and the deceased person’s place in the community of faith.

Gathering and Welcome

A powerful symbol for this ceremony may be silence – a time of reflection and personal prayer.

Some reflective music may be used. If a suitable song is available it may also be sung after a moment of silence.

L: We gather and pray in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

May the God of hope give you the fullness of peace, and may the Lord of life be with you.

R: And with your spirit.

L: Lord in our grief, our sadness, we turn to you. Hear our cries. Listen to our prayers for N whom you have called out of this world;

Lead N to your kingdom of light and peace.

Proclamation of the Word

First Reading: Romans 8: 38-39 (Nothing can come between us and the love of God)

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23 (The Lord is my Shepherd)

Gospel: Matthew 11:28-30 (You will find rest for your souls) ORMark 10:13-16 (The kingdom of God belongs to little children)

The leader may share a short reflection, or those gathered may sit in silence for a few moments.



Let us pray to the Lord, the God of Hope and Peace.

1. For N that he/she may now enjoy the place prepared for him/her in your great love. We pray to the Lord.

R. Lord hear our prayer.2. For the family of N, as they suffer his/her loss. May they

know our love and support in their grief. We pray to the Lord.

R. Lord hear our prayer.3. For our school community, that we will help one another

at this sad time. We pray to the Lord. R. Lord hear our prayer.4. For all who mourn. May they be comforted. We pray to

the Lord. R. Lord hear our prayer.5. For all who are in need. May the fearful find peace, the

weary rest, the oppressed freedom. We pray to the Lord. R. Lord hear our prayer.

L. We bring our prayers together in the Prayer of Jesus Our Father who art in heaven …

L. Eternal rest grant unto her/him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her/him. All. May his/her soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen.

AlternativeblessingafterOurFather: May the love of God and the peace of our Lord Jesus ChristBless us and comfort usAnd gently wipe away every tear from our eyes:In the name of the Father,And of the Son and of the Holy SpiritAmen.

All leave in silence

LITURGY of the WORD: example (cont.)


4. CELEBRATING the EUCHARIST with CHILDREN

This section draws upon the Directory for Masses with Children:www.catholicliturgy.com/index.cfm/FuseAction/DocumentContents/Index/2/SubIndex/11/DocumentIndex/477

The online resource Together at One Altar is useful to assist with understanding, preparing for, and celebrating the Mass.www.togetheratonealtar.catholic.edu.au

www.catholicliturgy.com/index.cfm/FuseAction/DocumentContents/Index/2/SubIndex/11/DocumentIndex/477www.togetheratonealtar.catholic.edu.au


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4.1 MEETING the NEEDS of CHILDREN

In 1973 the Congregation for Divine Worship published the Directory for Masses with Children, a document designed as a supplement to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal. In accordance with the changes inspired by the Second Vatican Council the document provided all the details concerning the celebration of the Eucharist with children.

Today the Directory for Masses for Children is still a rich source of information and inspiration for teachers preparing and celebrating Masses with children.

THE DIRECTORY highlights some of the key elements ➢ Children are invited to a participation that is “active, conscious and authentic… accommodated to the age and mentality of the children” (n.12).

➢ “The development of gestures, postures and actions is very important … in view of the nature of the liturgy as an activity of the entire person …” (n.33).

➢ Children can help to decorate the place of celebration and prepare the chalice, paten and cruets … “such activity will help develop the spirit of community celebration” (n.29).

About Introductory Rites➢ It is not always necessary to include every element of the Sunday

Introductory Rites (see below) in masses with children; however, none should be continuously omitted (n.40).

INTRODUCTORY RITESGathering procession

Penitential Rite – includes the call to silent reflection, and forms include:

• Blessing and sprinkling of Holy Water• The Confiteor (“I confess...”)• Short Invocations (followed by “Lord have mercy” …)

o These invocations recall Christ’s saving action. o This form is common in Masses with children as they can

proclaim the invocations. o There are samples in the Missal; they can also be freely

composed, using the Scriptures of the Mass that are to follow.

The Gloria

Collect The text of prayers of the Roman Missal may be adapted to the needs of children, but the purpose and substance of the prayer should be preserved. (n.51)


About Liturgy of the Word

➢ Masses with children should always include a Bible reading (n.41).

➢ The number of readings may be reduced but the Gospel reading should never be omitted (n.42).

➢ Readings may be chosen from the Lectionary for Mass or the Bible, taking into account the liturgical seasons (n.43).

➢ For the sake of understanding it may be necessary to omit a verse of scripture, but this should be done with caution so that the sense of the passage is not altered (n.43).

➢ The quality of the reading is more important than the length (n.44).

➢ Paraphrases of scripture should be avoided. Translations authorised by the Bishops Conference are recommended (n.45).

About Liturgy of the Eucharist *

➢ Communion under both species: The Eucharist is best celebrated with communicants receiving both the Body and Blood of Christ. Such actions support the very nature of Eucharist:• Jesus’ action at the Last Supper

• Eucharist as meal

• The new Covenant in Christ’s Blood

• The promise of the heavenly banquet

➢ Communion under both kinds is an ancient practice of the Church for adults and children.

About Singing at Mass

➢ The introduction of the revised translation of the Roman Missal encourages the singing of the Mass.

➢ Singing is an asset to any celebration, and in view of children’s special affinity for singing, it is to be encouraged in the celebration of children’s Masses (n.30).

➢ Parts of the Mass that lend themselves to singing include the ‘Lord Have Mercy’, the psalm, the Alleluia verse, the acclamations in the Eucharistic Prayer (Holy, holy; Memorial Acclamation; Amen), the Lord’s Prayer and the ‘Lamb of God’ (n.31).

ConclusionThe Directory for Masses with Children concludes with the following:

“The contents of the directory are intended to help children quickly and joyfully to encounter Christ together in the eucharistic celebration and to stand in the presence of the Father with him. If they are formed by conscious and active participation in the eucharistic sacrifice and meal, they should learn day by day, at home and away from home, to proclaim Christ to others among their family and among their peers, by living the “faith, which expresses itself through love” (Gal 5:6) (n.55).

* Note: The Revised Translations of the Eucharistic Prayers for Children are now available from the Office of Worshipwww.adelaide.catholic.org.au/our-faith/office-for-worship

www.adelaide.catholic.org.au/our-faith/office-for-worship


4.2 GUIDELINES for PREPARING MASSES with CHILDREN

INTRODUCTORY RITE PART POSSIBILITIES

TEXTS to be chosen or composed

MUSIC to be chosen

Entrance

•Procession: everyone•Procession: Priest &

ministers•Banners•Dance•Book of the Gospel

brought forward• Incense•Symbols

Entrance song

PenitentialAct

•Rite 1•Rite 2•Rite 3•Spoken responses•Sung responses•Sprinkling Rite

Penitential prayers

Penitential responses

GlorytoGod

(for feast or season)

•Spoken (all)•Sung (all) Glory to God

TheCollect Of the day Opening prayer


LITURGY OF THE WORD PART POSSIBILITIES


MUSIC to be chosen

(a) with two readings FirstReading

• Brief introduction• Solo reading• Group reading• Mime• Dramatization• Posters, etc.• Slides, etc.• Overheads/PowerPoint• Followed by silence

From the Old or New Testament – not the Gospels

Response

• Psalm read, refrain said

• Psalm read, refrain sung

• Singing in psalmody form

• Alleluia with simple verse sung instead of psalm

Psalm

Alleluia not said during

Lent

Sung refrain

Sung Psalm

Alleluia with verse

WelcomingtheGospel

• Alleluia with verse spoken or sung (all)

Alleluia song (if

not sung as response above)

Gospel • Solo reading Gospel of the day

Homily/Reflection

• By the Priest• By a lay person or

Religious. Only in cases of Masses with children (according to The Directory for Masses with Children)

• Followed by silence (optional)


LITURGY OF THE WORD PART POSSIBILITIES


MUSIC to be chosen

(b) with only one reading

WelcomingtheGospel

• Alleluia with verse spoken or sung (all) Alleluia song

Gospel • Solo reading Gospel of the day

Homily

• By the Priest• By a lay person or

Religious. Only in cases of Masses with children (according to The Directory for Masses with Children)

Response(optional)

• Singing• Silence Sung response

(c) after either (a) or

(b)

ProfessionofFaith(for feast or season only)

• Apostles’ Creed• Renewal of Baptism• Spoken• Sung

CreedSung

GeneralIntercessions(Prayers of the

Faithful)

• Prepared by children• Occasionally

spontaneous• Spoken response• Sung response• Visual aids

Sung response


LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST

PART POSSIBILITIESTEXTS to be chosen or composed

MUSIC to be chosen

Preparationofthegifts

• Preparati