Reflect

Visio Divina Prayer and Reflection:
Among the many ways to pray, Visio Divina (Latin for "divine seeing") is a special way to pray with Scripture art. Visio Divina is the practice of looking at a painting or a photograph and allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to you through the Art. We will continue our Visio Divina prayer this week with the scripture passage John 6:35

How to find a Bible Passage
  • “John” is the fourth gospel  in the New Testament. Use the table of contents to find where the Gospel of  John begins.
  • The number ‘6’ stands for the chapter. Look for the bold number ‘6’ in the Gospel of John.
  • The number ‘35' directs you to read the verse thirty-five.

Steps for Visio Divina prayer:
  • Read aloud the scripture passage: John 6:35
  • Look at the image. What is the first thing you notice in the picture?
  • Now, look at the whole image. What comes to mind? 
  • What does the Bible passage and image mean to you?
  • What are some things this picture tells you about Jesus being the bread of life? 
  • Share your thoughts with your family.​
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Photo source:  Catholic Viral 54 Free Paintings - The Last Supper

For Parents

Worship of the Eucharist. Listen to Father Mike Schmitz explain the Eucharist in the Catechism in a Year Day 189. 

Focus

 Jesus used the same phrase "I AM" in seven declarations 
about Himself. This week we will ponder Jesus words,
           "I am the bread of life"           
  •  How does Jesus feed you spiritually?
  • Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist. This is one of the most beautiful mysteries of the Catholic faith. Share your amazement that the Eucharist is not a symbol but really is the true presence of Jesus. 

Fun Facts: Jesus said this shortly after He had fed the five thousand and the people wanted more free food. But Jesus didn’t want to keep filling their stomachs. He wanted them to see that physical food only satisfied hunger temporarily, but He was the One who could satisfy them spiritually. He was saying He is the bread that provides life.
Manna satisfied the physical needs of the Israelites in the wilderness, but only for a while. Christ satisfies our spiritual needs forever. Those who believe in Jesus have life. The manna in the wilderness satisfied temporary hunger and those who ate of it eventually died. Jesus provides the bread of life that leads to life everlasting.
Listen to the song about Jesus the bread of life. 

Watch

Watch these videos with your child. They are short!
Feeding the 5000
The True Presence
Learn about Saint Scholastica. Her Feast Day is February 10th. She models the virtue of loyalty. 
St. Scholastica is the twin sister of St. Benedict. She enjoyed spending time with her twin brother, discussing spiritual life and singing the Psalms. After watching the video, share one thing that inspires you about St. Scholastica. 

Memory Work

Pray the Preparation of the Gifts with the family and keep this prayer in your heart.
Return to First Communion page.