Season of Eastertide

This coming Sunday is the liturgical celebration of the Ascension of the Lord, when Jesus was taken to heaven on the 40th day after Easter. This year our Gospel is taken from the conclusion of the Gospel of Luke. In the Synoptic Gospels—Mark, Matthew, and Luke the accounts of Jesus' Ascension are similar. In each account, Jesus assigns his disciples the task of proclaiming the Gospel to the entire world. Our focus scripture for 2019 (Matthew 28 16-20) is taken from Matthew ‘s account and is titled ‘The Great Commission.’

The Synoptic Gospels, which all convey the same vital message of continuing Jesus’ work when he is no longer with us, have distinct differences. These differences can be explained and understood by looking at these scriptures through the Worlds of the Text:

• World Behind the Text: How is an understanding of this text influenced by what we can learn about its context?
• World of the Text: How is an understanding of this text influenced by what is actually in it?
• World in Front of the Text: For whom might this text be relevant today?

In the Gospels of Mark and Matthew, the disciples are sent by Jesus to baptise as well as to preach. In Luke's Gospel, however, this commission to baptise is absent. Instead, Jesus directs the disciples to return to Jerusalem to await the fulfillment of his promise to send them the Holy Spirit. Curiously, only Mark and Luke actually report Jesus' Ascension into heaven.  Our focus scripture for 2019, (Matthew's Gospel) concludes with Jesus' promise to remain with his disciples forever. Those who believe in Jesus will be empowered to do what Jesus himself has done and try to live as his followers.

As you reflect on the Gospels of Luke and Matthew with your family this week, talk about how to follow Jesus’ example in your life.

Student Prayer Focus

Our Student Prayer Focus this week centres on the Gospel of Luke and connects to our 2019 focus Scripture from Matthew. In classes students hear the scriptures and respond to the question:

What do I wonder about the Gospel this week?

As a part of our Student Prayer Focus this week you will see that another white leaf is being  added to our trees in each class prayer space. The white leaf symbolises the season of Eastertide. On each leaf of a word or phrase is written which symbolise how each class member will work to glorify Christ with their life during the week.

How will you Glorify Christ with your life this week?

Sacramental Information

Sacrament of First Holy Communion

It was wonderful to see many school and parish families come together for the first  preparation session for the Sacrament of First Holy Communion. The preparation sessions continue this Saturday. 

Please contact Father Paul  if you have any questions about sacraments at:

paul_nulley@hotmail.com

Yours in Christ,

Melanie Stratford

Religious Education Coordinator

melanie.stratford@cg.catholic.edu.au