This week's Gospel , Jesus asks the disciples a direct question. He asked the disciples,"Who do you say that I am?"
Matthew 16; 13-20
The refection below is taken from Catholic dailyreflections.com

“Who do the crowds say that I am?” They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.”  Luke 9:18c-20
Peter got it right.  Jesus was “the Christ of God.”  Many others spoke of Him as one who was only a great prophet, but Peter saw deeper.  He saw that Jesus was uniquely the Anointed One who is of God.  In other words, Jesus was God.
Though we know this to be true, we can sometimes fail to fully comprehend the depth of this “Mystery of Faith.”  Jesus is human, and He is God.  This is hard to comprehend.  It would have been hard for those of Jesus’ time to comprehend this great mystery, also.  Imagine sitting before Jesus listening to Him speak.  If you were there before Him, would you have concluded that He is also the second Person of the Most Holy Trinity?  Would you have concluded that He existed from all eternity and was the great I AM WHO AM?  Would you have concluded that He was perfect in every way and that He was also the Creator of all things and the one who keeps all things in being?
Most likely none of us fully would have comprehended the true depth of the meaning that Jesus was “the Christ of God.”  We most likely would have recognized something special about Him, but would have failed to see Him for who He is in His full essence.
The same is true today.  When we look at the Most Holy Eucharist, do we see God?  Do we see the Almighty, Omnipotent, All-loving God who existed for eternity is the source of all good and is the Creator of all things?  Perhaps the answer is both “Yes”  and “No.”  “Yes” in that we believe and “no” in that we do not fully understand.
Reflect, today, upon the divinity of Christ.  Reflect upon Him present in the Most Holy Eucharist as well as His presence all around us.  Do you see Him?  Do you believe?  How deep and complete is your faith in Him.  Recommit yourself to a deeper understanding of who Jesus is in His Godhead.  Try and take a step deeper in your faith.
Lord, I do believe.  I believe You are the Christ of God.  Help me to comprehend even more what that means.  Help me to see Your divinity more clearly and to believe in You more fully.  Jesus, I trust in You.

When you first read this week's Gospel, my first inclination is ,"Ouch, Jesus was unkind to the woman at first." It is not my favorite account of Jesus but if you dig deeper you see that there is more to understanding this story. He actually "SAW HER",  she was on His radar. The disciples' behavior was a bit dismissive. The woman was humble, persistent and had great faith. Sometimes we are quick to judge. 
Below is a reflection on this Gospel taken from:  blog.franciscanmedia.org 

Many people face a conundrum when reading the scene in Matthew’s Gospel where Jesus meets the Canaanite woman who begs him to release her little girl from demonic possession (15:28ff). The Lord’s first response is silence, and we are struck by how out of character that is for him. No response to a cry for help? Then the woman kneels and pleads, “Lord, help me,” to which the Lord replies that his mission is not to gentiles, but to Israel. 
He then says, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” We are stunned by his words. But the woman doesn’t give up. She comes back with, “Even the dogs get the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” We feel like cheering her on in the midst of the Lord’s apparent disregard. Christ then replies, “O woman, great is your faith!” What’s going on here?


A DEEPER FAITH
​Right before this scene, the disciples were caught in a storm and called to Jesus for help. He called Peter to get out of the boat and walk on the water toward him. Peter saw where he was and realized he was doing the impossible. He began to sink. Christ grabbed his arm and saved him. Coming back to the boats, the Lord chided his disciples with “O, you of little faith.” The apostles, who have seen dozens of Jesus’ healings and miracles, lose faith once they are tested in a storm.

By contrast, this Canaanite woman will not take “no” for an answer. And that is the point. When the woman first approaches Jesus, his disciples want him to send her away. She is bothering them. The apostles had just been saved from drowning, but now think nothing of walking away from this poor woman. What’s happening here is that the Lord, in his goodness and wisdom, is drawing from this pagan woman a deeper faith than his apostles had.

GOD’S GRACE
In a way, God's only son knows all along he is going to heal this woman’s little girl. The Lord could never walk away from this situation. But he can also see that she is a strong woman who cares for her daughter. As he talks with her, Jesus draws out from her a strong determination and magnificent act of faith. She would not give up. There are two important lessons here.
First of all, the apostles witnessed this woman display more faith than they had when faced with a critical situation. Second, it is important to remember that, in the Gospels, the most dramatic acts of faith are made by pagans rather than the Jews. Such as: 1) The centurion who said, “I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servent will be healed” (Mt 8:8). 2) The gentile woman who would not let Christ get away without healing her daughter. 3) And, finally, the Roman soldier at the cross who makes the dramatic statement, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” (Mk 15:39).
Faith is often found in the least-expected places. Faith is a matter of the heart, not the head. And God’s grace can touch the hearts of some people we might tend to dismiss


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For Elementary Age Kids:
This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary.  
​https://www.catholicicing.com/printable-mary-statue-craft-for-kids/

​https://www.catholicicing.com/assumption-of-mary-are-you-ready-to/
​

God's message is very timely as He always is , if you listen. This week's theme continues to be one of ultimate trust in Jesus to bring calm to all the storms of our life and to furthermore walk with HIM even if your mind is telling you it is impossible to go in the direction with Jesus over any obstacle. In this week's Gospel Jesus is calling us to give up our fears of the impossible and walk on. the water with HIM. The disciples were on a boat and a raging storm comes and the disciples call out to Jesus for help. As Jesus address the disciples the wind calms and the storm ceases. How many times does he do this in our lives? Then furthermore he pushes us to our limit in trust. He asked Peter to get out of the safety of the boat and walk on the water with him. Would you go? Would I go? Reflecting on the many challenges in life that we can encounter, what is our first reaction?
Recently, I have had the blessing of getting away and spending time with family near a lake. We had one extremely windy day that created waves that were very big crashing into shore. What caught my attention was this Mother Duck with her ducklings near the edge of the shore. They were getting battered around. She was doing her best to keep them together and battling the waves crashing around them. She was seemingly trying to teach them how to deal with the circumstances safely,
and keep them swimming. Later as the waves calmed down they all nestled together on the shore. She kept them together and taught them how to ride the waves!
This made me think of how Jesus cares for us. He is trustworthy and He loves us. He will see us through the storm and will teach us to walk or swim on the water. We have to let go and trust and eventually we will feel the comfort of being nestled in the shore, many of us have storms that no one is aware of and some that only our friends and those close to us are aware. I think that Jesus responds to our call to calm the storm sometimes in the form of good friend that can be counted on. May we always be open to the way God wants to work in our lives whether it be trusting more, being that good friend, or getting out of the comfort zone of the boat and walking with HIM in ways that we could never expect. Just say "yes" to God 's will and pray for the strength and grace to do so when we are feeling overwhelmed by the circumstances.
This week's prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all the blessings and ways you have extended your hand to us to trust you more. Please calm the storms in our lives. Help us to always see you in every situation. We pray for who are struggling to keep their head above the water and help us to see where they are so if it is us that are called to be the hand they need that we seize the opportunity to be an instrument of peace and calm. Help us to TRUST more. Lord , I am sorry for the times when my faith is weak and I sink.
Amen

Another way to pray through this scripture is through visio divino using Art.
With Jesus in the Storm: Rembrandt’s Meditation

• By Bill Gaultiere

You probably know well the story of Jesus and his disciples in their boat at sea during a raging storm (Mark 4:35-41). But you may not have ever meditated on it by using Rembrandt’s famous painting of this story, The Storm on the Sea of Galilee. Recently I was inspired to do this by an article in the Conversations journal, “In the Storm.”
Linger with Rembrandt’s masterpiece painting of this Gospel story and you’ll begin to feel the stormy gale blowing in your face and the enormous waves tossing you up and down and splashing you with freezing cold sea water! You’ll feel the force of the trials in your life that threaten to sink your boat. You’ll see yourself in the boat and the role you play in your family, work, or other group.
Most important of all, you can find in Rembrandt’s painting Jesus and his cross — you can come to experience more of his peace in the storm.
Visio Divina Spiritual directors call meditating on a picture “Visio Divina.” Applied to a Bible passage, it’s an imaginative and refreshing form of Scripture meditation that helps us to enter into the narrative of Scripture and bring ourselves to Jesus. It’s similar to Lectio Divina, but instead of quietly listening to God through words we use a picture.
In my personal devotions and in the groups and retreats I lead for pastors, leaders, and caregivers I have found that using Picture Prayers that come from the Bible can evoke deep personal emotions and needs, even things that we were not conscious of, which we can then pray about. It’s also a great tool to help us hear God’s voice, often in ways that surprise us!
It seems that a picture provides a generous space for each of us to project our unique self and life circumstances into so that we can then bring ourself to God. What you see in the picture is probably different from what others see. So also, the message you hear from God, spoken to you in part through the picture, is personal to you.
I invite you to join me in meditating on Mark 4:35-41 as it was painted by Rembrandt in The Storm on the Sea of Galilee. You can do this in a time of private devotion or share this with a prayer partner or small group.
Meditate on the Gospel PassageMark 4:35-41 tells the story that inspired Rembrandt’s painting of The Storm on the Sea of Galilee. Read the passage slowly and prayerfully. You can do that here.
What is one word or phrase that you’re especially drawn to? Remain in quiet prayer to absorb this word from God.*
Meditate on Rembrandt’s PaintingNow let’s turn to Rembrandt’s meditation on Mark 4:35-41. He painted The Storm on the Sea of Galilee in 1633. His painting of Jesus and his disciples in their boat on the stormy sea is dark, shrouded in shadows, but there is a ray of light streaming down to help us see what is going on in the boat.
You can meditate on The Storm on the Sea of Galilee using this large image of Rembrandt’s painting. (If you’re sharing this meditation with a group then you’ll want to print out copies of the picture.) Ask God to guide and direct your impressions and thoughts as you look at the painting.
What do you notice? What part of the painting or character in it does God especially draw your attention to? Quietly pray and reflect on this for a couple of minutes. [It’s best to do this part before you do the guided parts of this meditation below. Let your mind be open to whatever impressions or thoughts God may give you.]
Finding Yourself in Rembrandt’s Painting (Guided Meditation, Part 1)Let’s meditate on The Storm on the Sea of Galilee one more time. This time I will guide you. An interesting thing about the painting is that in addition to the twelve disciples who accompanied Jesus in the boat there is a thirteenth person sailing in the boat, who is that?
Rembrandt is known to have painted himself somewhere in his paintings. He’s setting an example for us to find ourselves in the Gospel, bringing to God our stress and our sin, our hurts and our hopes. (This is the way we need to meditate on Scripture. It’s also what we need to do with others when we preach or teach from the Bible.)
In Rembrandt’s painting each of the people with Jesus in the boat has their own reaction to the storm. It’s something like the different roles that people play in a family, church, or other group. (Sometimes, particularly under stress, people’s roles and reactions may be very dysfunctional!) Which person do you most identify with? (In different situations or at different times in your life you might find that you have a different reaction.)

In the boat is a man in white that is easy to miss. His back is faced to us. He’s sitting still and alone. He seems to be separated from the frightening storm and the chaos going on around him in the boat. There seems to be a shadowy figure that he’s looking at. Is he having a vision? Is it an angel?
​
LostA man in a blue shirt on the left side of the boat near the back is standing and holding onto a guy wire. His other hand is on his forehead as he stares blankly out at the dark sea. Maybe he’s flooded with emotion and shut down. It almost seems he is looking to us. He’s close to Jesus but he’s not looking at him.
No one is looking at Jesus, except the two angry disciples and the disciple kneeling at Jesus’ feet. Only the kneeling disciple is looking at Jesus with trust and reverence. Rembrandt has painted a halo on this disciple’s head to signify his faith in the Lord Jesus in the midst of the terrible storm.
Pray About Your Storm
​Now, bring your storm into the Gospel story. Some storms that we experience, like this one on the Sea of Galilee are dangerous. Other are storms of stress or not knowing what to do.
Your storm might be a difficulty in your family, work, or ministry. Or something personal that you’re struggling with. How are you dealing with your personal storm? Which character in Rembrandt’s painting do you identify with? Pray quietly about this…*
Look at Jesus (Guided Meditation, Part 2)Look closely at Jesus. Freezing rain is pelting down on him, waves are swamping the boat, winds are whipping against him and tossing the boat around violently. Yet, Jesus is sleeping! Surely he is not unaware of the dangerous storm. Nor is he faking to be asleep. He must be napping. Certainly, he is at peace.
How could Jesus be so relaxed when he and his disciples were in such great danger? Was he planning all along to calm the storm? I doubt it. Jesus said he only did what he saw the Father doing and that always he was submitted to him.
Jesus wasn’t just in the boat — he was in his Abba’s arms. He wasn’t just in the storm — he was in the Kingdom of God. He was at peace in the storm because he trusted his Father to care for them — no matter what happened. This is the hidden miracle in this Gospel story and it’s why after Jesus calmed the storm he said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid?”
On the surface it’s a ridiculously funny question! The disciples must have looked at each other incredulously afterwards, “Let’s see. Why were we so afraid? Oh, it was the storm that nearly drowned us all at sea! Then it was realizing that we were sitting next to the Son of God with power over nature!”
Jesus was being sincere. If they learned to live with him and the Father in the Kingdom of the Heavens then they wouldn’t be afraid — even in a terrible storm. Jesus was so relaxed that God’s peace permeated his body. It was this peace in his body that he spoke into the storm.
In Rembrandt’s painting it seems that Jesus is looking to the opening in the heavens and the light that is breaking through. Most everyone else in the boat is either looking at the storm or at what they’re trying to do to secure themselves. Jesus is the only person on the boat who sees the source of light in the heavens.
Notice, that the light of God is not just coming from the heavens it’s also glowing from Jesus’s body! Jesus is the Christ and the Son of God! He is the Light of the World and the Prince of Peace! The disciple kneeling at Jesus’ feet sees Jesus’ light! Perhaps the disciple at the tiller is also is drawn to Jesus’ light.
By the way, did you see the symbol of the cross of Christ right in the middle of Rembrandt’s painting?
Listen to God.

For an object lesson- click on link below:
https://www.tumct.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/July-17.pdf

This week's Gospel is one of my all time favorites because it reminds us that NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD!! It also reminds us not to worry when you think there is not enough of something because GOD ALWAYS PROVIDES. ( sometimes in the most unusual ways but our needs are met by the ONE who knows us best!) It is the story of Jesus feeding the huge crowd the loaves and fishes. (Matthew 14:13-21)
The second reading this week is epic as well! (Romans 8:35,37-39)
"Brothers and sisters; What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish,or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword? NO, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us!"
This is the HOPE we need today!
The prayer coming from my heart after reflecting on the scriptures for Sunday:

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for blessing us so many ways, every day of our life. Thank you for the people that you place on our path, thank you for our families, thank you for our friends, and thank you for the opportunities you give us to shine your light for others!
In this ever changing world during the pandemic....thank you for being the constant! Thank you for helping us calm the waves of insecurities for the future. Thank you for being our peace and salvation always!
Lord we lift up all who are struggling with health concerns in mind and body, all those who are mourning, parents figuring out whether to send kids to school or stay home, and all those struggling with finances. Help us to trust in you. Help us to trust that you will provide way like you did the day when you fed a crowd from a small basket of fish and few loaves of bread. We know you are with us.
Thank you for being our HOPE!
AMEN
​
​What is the prayer in your heart?
Below is a song we can reflect on the call to lean on Jesus and trust that HE knows exactly what we need!

​For Preschool & Kindergarten
https://www.dltk-kids.com/bible/cv/jesus_feeds_five_thousand.htm

For Elementary ages Grade 1- 5

• Bible Activity

Sunday School Lesson: Jesus Feeds the Five ThousandUse this free Sunday school lesson “Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand” with kids from Living Inside Out to teach kids that they can trust God to provide. Find more great Sunday school lessons to help kids grow in their faith.

Scripture: John 6:1-14
The Point: We trust God to provide.
Key Verse: “You are the God of great wonders!” --Psalm 77:14
Bible FoundationThe ProblemWord of Jesus’ miracles and life-changing teaching was spreading—he was becoming something of a celebrity. One day, on a hillside near the Sea of Galilee, a massive crowd of over 5,000 people gathered to hear him. In the midst of the crushing mass, a bad situation became obvious to Jesus’ disciples: These people would soon be hungry and clearly there was no possible way to feed them all.
More Than EnoughAndrew found a young boy in the crowd who had food—but just five loaves and two fish. Miraculously, Jesus multiplied the small meal into a feast for thousands, with baskets of leftover food. Jesus knew what the people needed and, from the start, he “knew what he was going to do.” Through this amazing miracle, he demonstrated that he could—and would—provide. And even more, Jesus showed that when he gets his hands on our stuff, blessings explode in abundance.
Coulda, Woulda, ShouldaJesus could have spoken a simple word, and food would have appeared. He could have simply thought about it, and the hunger of all the people would’ve been instantly satisfied. Maybe some people think he should’ve done it that way—it certainly would’ve been faster. But Jesus didn’t. Instead, he let the people experience hunger. He helped his disciples recognize their utter inability to solve the problem themselves, and he used a young boy’s small offering as part of his miracle.
A Deeper AgendaThe day after he miraculously fed the 5,000, the same crowd gathered again. Jesus illuminated the events of the previous day with an even deeper spiritual meaning: “I am the bread of life,” he said, “Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again” (John 6:35). In the Old Testament, God communicates the same idea, explaining that he purposely allowed his people to hunger and then gave them manna to help them realize that they need him to really live and be satisfied (Deuteronomy 8:3).
Living Inside OutGod often works in this way so we realize that only he can provide for our deepest needs and hungers. He wants us to know that he will provide even when it may not seem possible to us, and that he may also want to involve us (our time, our abilities, and so on) in the process of his provision. Are you aware, in this moment, how much you rely on God? That he is the ultimate provider of your food, your water, your shelter, even the air you breathe as you read these words? Take time to give God credit for his provision. Take stock of divine provisions in your life you may have taken for granted. Praise God for the needs he meets and the lessons he seeks to teach you through your dependence upon him.
Sunday School Lesson: Jesus Feeds the Five ThousandParents - Prepare AheadOn a large sheet of butcher paper, draw a large target with a bull’s-eye and three large rings surrounding it. In the bulls-eye, write “YOU.” On the next ring, write “FAMILY.” On the next, write “FRIENDS.” On the outer ring, write “SCHOOL.” Attach the target to a wall or other hard surface
1. WelcomeSay: Jesus performed amazing miracles for many people. He prayed for people to hear and see again, helped people walk, and even raised people from the dead! Watch one amazing miracle where Jesus feeds over 5,000 people—with just a little boy’s lunch.
Have kids discuss in small groups:

• Talk about a time you were really hungry.
• Tell about a need that God’s met for you.
• What are some needs you can trust God for this week?

Say: The 5,000 people who were hungry that day didn’t know where their food was going to come from. The disciples even asked, “How are we going to feed these people?” Jesus answered all of them with one boy’s lunch. This miracle shows us that God can give us exactly what we need—and he can do it from places we don’t even expect. That’s why we trust God to provide.
2. Object LessonYou’ll need:

• paper
• 1 pair of scissors for each small group

Say: Jesus did some amazing things when he on earth. Once, he took a small boy’s lunch, just some bread and fish, and use it to feed over 5,000 people. Give each small group a pair of scissors and each child a piece of paper. Have the children hold up their papers.
Say: How many corners does your piece of paper have? Allow time for the kids to count their corners.
Say: Your paper has four corners. But what if I want to give someone a corner? Cut off a corner of the paper, and hand it to a child. Hold up the paper, and say: Okay, now that I’ve given a corner away, how many corners do I have? Allow kids to answer, and then say: Wait a minute. I have five. Count the corners to the kids. Then have each child cut a corner from his or her paper.
Say: You see, the more times Jesus divided the bread and fish, the more he had to give away. Have the children count the corners on the cut-off piece they each have. Not only that, the people had more than enough. Encourage the kids to each cut off more corners, each time counting the multiplying corners.
Have kids discuss in small groups:

• What surprised you about our activity?
• Which things amazed and surprised you about what Jesus did?
• What is something you give that God could use to help others?

Say: Jesus took a boy’s lunch and blessed 5,000 people with it. He can do the same thing with us! He can take what we have and bless others with it. We trust God to provide, and Jesus just might use what we already have to do it.
3. Bull’s-Eye!You’ll need:

• a small ball
• butcher paper
• marker

Say: God provides for us. That means he takes care of us by giving us what we need. Choose one child to stand about 10 feet from the target and throw the ball at it.
Announce which ring the ballhits. Have everyone find a partner and share a way that God has provided for him or her in that area. For example, if the ball hits “FRIENDS” on the target, kids can talk about how God provided them with awesome friends who like the same things they do, who are fun to play with, and so on.
Choose another child to throw the ball. Have kids switch partners. Repeat several times, until each area is hit.
Have kids discuss in small groups:

• In what area do you most notice God providing for you?
• Why does knowing God provides for you in that area help you trust him in other areas?
• What could you tell someone who didn’t think God could meet his or her needs?

Say: It doesn’t matter where we are, who we’re with, or what we’re doing. God always knows what we need—he hits the bulls-eye every time. We trust God to provide for us.
4. Creative DrawingYou’ll need:

• paper
• pencils

Give each child a piece of paper and a pencil. Say: Draw something ordinary on your paper that you use every day—such as a spoon, a pencil, or a toothbrush. Encourage kids to draw something different from what others are drawing. Allow about a minute, and then have kids trade papers with people around them.
Say: You have a drawing of something ordinary. Now think of two or more ways you can use that item in a way that’s different from what it’s normally used for. For example, a spoon could help build a sand castle. A toothbrush can scratch your back. Allow about two to three minutes, encouraging kids to think creatively. There are no wrong answers.
Once everyone has finished, have kids trade their papers back and share their ideas with each other.
Have kids discuss in small groups:

• What are some reasons Jesus might work with ordinary people and things when he does miracles?
• What’s one ordinary thing about you that God could use in big ways?

Say: God used an ordinary boy and his ordinary lunch to feed 5,000 people. God can use you and your ordinary things to do something amazing, too! We trust God to provide, and sometimes he might even provide for others in marvelous ways through us.
For even more great articles like this in every issue, subscribe today to Children’s Ministry Magazine!
Check out the link below for more great discussion starters and talk about the miracles that you have witnessed in your life!
https://www.dltk-kids.com/t.asp?t=https://www.dltk-kids.com/bible/jesus/takehome26.gif


FOR YOUTH in Middle School

 What are you hungry for? What would you want from Jesus today?  Do you trust him?  If you struggle with trusting ...ask Him for help. When was the last time you really prayed?  How do you pray? Do you sit in the quiet or do you open the Bible, journal or use music to help direct your thoughts. Your challenge this week is to explore different ways to pray.  Go to Jesus with all  your heart!
​For Teens and Young Adults
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This is one of my all time favorite skits....... The Trust Fall. Do you trust Jesus?  Do you really trust him with everything going on in your life?  What can you do to increase your trust. For me, in order to really trust someone, I have to get to know them. I have to spend time with them.  What about you? How well do you know Jesus? What can you do to know him better. Just some things to think about.    I hope you take the plunge!

This week theme continues with thoughts on the kingdom of heaven. Jesus is trying to describe the kingdom of heaven to his followers using more parables. He gives several examples to ponder in our hearts. Let's try to break open the message a little further.

Matthew 13:44-52
‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all this?’ They answered, ‘Yes.’ And he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’

• Some thoughts on today's scripture
  • The demands of the Gospel seem so total: to obtain the kingdom one has to sell everything. Yet it is also a process, a journey. What is most important is the movement and the direction of my life. Only the one who searches can find, those who are happy with where they are will never find anything worth giving their life for. Am I an in a stagnant phase or am I still searching, digging deeper in the field of my heart? What chords has the experience of the pandemic touched in my heart and in that of my family?
  • Selling everything to obtain what they really desired so deeply filled both men in the parables with deep joy. This seems a contradiction, but this is what our experience tells us. As the prayer of St Francis puts it, It is in giving that we receive. I ask for heart full of freedom, freedom to give all and to receive all.
• • Have I found the pearl of great value, for which I am ready to sell all I have to buy it? Am I still looking for it, or am I resigned to a life of mediocrity in my relationships with others, with God in my prayer, in my work life? If I have found it, am I ready to sell all that I have to obtain it? Jesus compares this pearl to the Kingdom he came to proclaim and inaugurate, and this gives me joy and hope.
  • The scribe who has been trained for the kingdom knows how to bring out of his treasure what is new and what is old. In our world, even in our Churches, we are becoming more and more polarized between the liberals and the conservatives, as both claim to be the only ones to have all the truth. I ask for wisdom and freedom to seek the kingdom before all else.
• • The parable is not inviting you to think about somebody else – some random trespasser. Jesus is inviting you to recognize where your heart is. For whom or for what would you go without everything else
• • Think about this hidden treasure: it inspires, enlivens and opens horizons of new plans and dreams. Not everyone should be told about it immediately but the excitement that it brings cannot always be hidden. I thank God for what gives meaning to my life.
  • Perhaps God looks at me and sees a hidden treasure, wondering when I might discover it.

( questions and thoughts taken from Sacred Space.com)

For Elementary age kids:
​Parables: The Pearl of Great Price
To Remember: God's kingdom is worth all that we have
Lesson
Matthew 13:44 The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
Matthew 13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. (NRSV)
Do you have one toy that you like more than all the others? Do you have a best friend? What are you willing to give up in order to have that toy or be with that friend? In these verses, Jesus describes a treasure so great, so valuable, so precious, the men sold everything they had to gain it. They did not value anything of theirs as much as they valued the chance to have the treasure or the pearl.
Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven with this valuable treasure. What Christ has offered us is so great, so valuable, that there is nothing we have that is worth keeping if it means we can't be in the kingdom. Think about the treasure in the field. If the man sold his house, then got the treasure, he would have the money to build a bigger house. The kingdom of heaven is the same way. 
True or False

1. The man who bought the pearl did not sell his house. F
2. God will supply all our needs. T
3. The men thought for a long time before deciding to buy the treasures. F
4. We must decide what is truly important in our lives. T
5. We will never have to give up anything for God. F

Discussion: What kinds of activities or habits can keep us out of the kingdom? What kinds of "pearls" should we be seeking in life? (List both on a board in opposing columns)
Review Questions
activity questions

1. Draw something (or someone) you treasure.
2. Describe what it takes to find a pearl.

emotion questions

1. Describe how you felt when you had to give up something you loved.
2. Describe a time when you received a great present.
3. Describe what heaven will be like.

application questions

1. What is the most valuable thing we possess?
2. What might we have to give up to reach the kingdom?
3. The merchant was searching for fine pearls. What should we be searching for?

( Taken from the Sunday Resource for kids.com)

 For Grades 6-8:
The Price Is Right
Theme:
The Kingdom of heaven, what is it worth?
Object:
A package of cookies or another item of your choosing. I used Oreo cookies.
Scripture"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!" Matthew 13:45-46 (NIV)
There is a television show called "The Price Is Right." Have you ever seen it? It has been on television for more than fifty years! The contestants on the show are shown an item and then they try to guess how much the item costs. The one who guesses closest to the actual price without going over wins the prize. I thought it would be fun to play "The Price Is Right." I brought a package of cookies. Oreo cookies! Yum, yum! On the back of the package there is a tag with the price of the cookies. We will see how close you can come to guessing the price without going over the correct price.
If you think that the price of this package of cookies is MORE than $4.00, raise your hand. No, if you raised your hand, you are out of the game because these cookies do not cost more than $4.00.
If you think the price of this package of cookies is LESS than $2.00, raise your hand. If you raised your hand, you are out of the game because these cookies cost more than $2.00.
If you think the price of these cookies is MORE than $3.00, raise your hand. If you raised your hand, you are still in the game. This package of cookies does cost more than $3.00.
Next, I am going to call out a price, If I call out the price that you think is the right price of the cookies, raise your hand.
$3.39 - No, you're out of the game.
$3.49 - No, you're out of the game.
$3.59 - No! You're out!
$3.69 - Yes! These cookies cost $3.69. If your hand is up, you are a winner! You have won the cookies, but I am sure that you will want to share them with the other children when our Bible story is over.
These cookies are good, but $3.69 is a lot of money for a package of cookies, isn't it? Are they worth it? Perhaps there is another package of cookies that would be just as good for less money. Every day, we have to make choices about the value of things. We ask ourselves, "How much am I willing to pay?"
Jesus once told a story about a man who found a treasure which someone had hidden in a field. He was so happy that he immediately went and sold everything he had and bought the field so that the treasure would be his. (Matthew 13:44)
Jesus told about another man who went in search of fine pearls. When he found a pearl that he thought was the very best, he sold everything that he had so that he could buy the pearl. (Matthew 13:45-46)
These men both found something that they thought was worth giving everything they owned so that they could have it. Do you know what this thing was that Jesus was talking about? He wasn't talking about buried treasure or beautiful pearls, he was talking about the kingdom of heaven. The kingdom of heaven is the greatest treasure one could ever desire. It is more precious than silver, gold, or jewels. That is why Jesus calls us to give up all that we have and follow him. Is that too great a price? I don't think so. In fact, I would say, "The Price Is Right!"
Father, nothing we have can compare to life in the kingdom of heaven. Amen.
​
 (taken for Sermons4kids)

Welcome to this week' blog on the wheat and the weeds! In the Gospel this week, Jesus tells the parable of the good sower that plants good seed, while behind his back the evil one plants weeds to try and ruin the crop. When the good sower is aware of the weeds he lets them grow with the wheat only to be separated in the end.This sounds ominous but it really gives me comfort. Sometimes it is frustrating when we see evil things happening in the world. What gives me peace and should give you peace is that GOD sees it all. God knows the truth! We should do our best to grow in faith, hope and love. We should do our best to not be distracted by the weeds and keep our focus on God who is loving, merciful and just.

Here is a musical reflection on this parable... "Wheat and Tares" by the Wind Talkers.  Let the lyrics resonate in our hearts.

Let us Pray,
Prayer Lord of the Harvest, be with us now as we pray. May we will sow good seed by the goodness of our lives and look forward to a bountiful harvest. • For the eyes of faith to see both goodness and evil in the world. Lord, open our eyes. • For prayerful discernment in difficult circumstances. Lord, sensitize our minds. • For a focused commitment to your Word. Lord, center our hearts. • For patience and mercy as we trust in a future we cannot see. Lord, we surrender our lives. With these prayers we seek the kingdom of heaven. We make them with confidence in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Additional thoughts Ten ways...to ‘tend the field’ within each of us:
1. Be thankful for God’s blessings. Keep a gratitude journal.
2. Develop small, daily, life giving habits.
3. Ponder a little bit of Scripture each day.
4. Stay close to the sacramental life of the Church.
5. Don’t feed your mind junk food. Be discerning about what you read, view.
6. Contribute to the mission of the Church. Put your shoulder to the plough.
7. Seek guidance from a wise, spiritually mature mentor.
8. Stay focused on persons not things; on Jesus, not religious ideology.
9. “Be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28). Bringing children into the world, and raising them according to God’s teachings of love is a profound expression of gospel fecundity.
10. Over to you... from your experience, add a tenth point.

-the above prayers and reflections came from: The Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Francis Evangelii Gaudium © 2013 Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Australian edition published by ST PAULS PUBLICATIONS. Scripture: New Revised Standard Version. This leaflet © 2014 MissionServices,Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay. www.godsmissionjoyofthegospel.dbbcso.org

For Teens:  Something to think about while living in a world full of wheat and weeds (good and evil)... finding GOOD friends helps you stay true to your true identity as a child of GOD. Sometimes we all can get mixed up along the way.Having friends that look out for your best interest will help you grow to be the best version of yourself.

For all of us... making decisions can be tricky in a world full of weeds sometimes.
Fr. Mike Schmitz gives us some great advice on making decisions. 

This week's Gospel is about the parable of the SOWER. Jesus is trying to help the people understand the importance of faith taking root in people's lives. I think He challenges us today......will we have faith during the trials of our current world situation? How does our faith manifest and take root in our lives? Do we have to see to believe? These are questions that came up for me while reading this passage from Matthew 13:1-23. We are challenged in today's crisis to live as people of deep faith or not? What kind of soil are the seeds of faith planted in you and me? How do you love your neighbor or even your enemy? Do we listen but not hear? How do we protect the vulnerable? How do we live in respect for every human? People with deep faith are called to live and share the Gospel. (Sometimes we do not even need words) Below is a video reenactment of this passage from Matthew. Picture yourself with the disciples. What stands out for you?

Here below is a beautiful reflection on this same parable .....most of us have been in all the different types of soil. Thank goodness, God does not ever give up on us!

Welcome to Summer Spirit 2020-Virtual Experience
We were all disappointed that we could not gather this year for our usual SUMMER SPIRIT fun, so we thought we would bring some to YOU!!
First we will start with a Summer prayer:
Heavenly Father,
We are so grateful for all the ways you continue to shower us with your love! We are so grateful for all your people. Thank you for giving us HOPE in you.
Please watch over our families and bless them with many grace-filled moments together. Guide us on the path that leads us to YOU. May our faith grow stronger by the days. May our hearts be more open to your inspiration by the hour.
We pray for our world in pain. Help us to bring your light where there is suffering.
Help us to be peace makers.
AMEN

Now in usual Summer Spirit tradition..... let us sing joyfully!
Thank you Grace and Paige for sharing His light! We are so thankful that you made a beautiful sing along video!

.We hope you are singing with us!! Send in your pictures or videos to spullen@sfxnewmilford.org and we will share them!
Our first Story...... When God made You by Matthew Paul Turner illustrated by Kimberly Barnes. Our first reader is Sue Pullen.

A perfect song to go with our story was sent in to us by Kaley! Thank you Kaley for sharing your gifts with us!!
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Our next story is When I pray for you,written by Matthew Paul Turner and illustrated by Kimberly Barnes.  Our suprise reader is Mrs. Grace Rossell.  Grace has been a teacher at Holy Infant Nursery school and a catechist on every level for many years. She has a heart of faith and spirit full of love for God's children!
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What a beautiful message about the power of prayer! Let's pray the five finger prayer. Close your eyes and who are the first 5 people that need your prayers. Pray for them. God knows what each person  needs.
​Click on the link below to learn how to make a "Prayer Jar."
http://www.ssww.com/blog/how-to-make-prayer-jars-religious-craft-activity-lesson/

Welcome to this week's Blog, our theme is following Christ. How would you answer the following questions? ( no pun intended "following questions”)
1. What does it take to follow Jesus?

2. If someone did not know us personally.... would they be able to guess we were followers of Christ by our words, actions and posts on social media?

3. Are we afraid to say his name in public?

4. When people encounter you do they know you are Christian by your life?

5. What if anything, stops us from expressing our faith to others?

Most people would probably agree that sometimes, it can be a rough road but don't even have to wait until heaven to feel the peace we feel when making a good choice!  WWJD (What WOULD Jesus DO) is a life changing phrase that can help govern our decisions. We have confession for the time we make mistakes. God gives us every opportunity to choose to follow him. Below is a prayer -The Litany of Humility made it into a song. This prayer is profound and reminds us all of the things that get in the way of truly following Christ.
# Holy Challenge..... keep this prayer in your heart. Pray it often!!

Thank you Fr. Gerry for giving us your homily for this week and giving us food for thought since we are still away  from Sunday Mass.
​

Children Grades k-3
Let’s think about what it means to follow Jesus. Think about some of the things we learn about who HE is? Jesus is kind. Jesus loves all people. Jesus teaches us to help each other. Jesus teaches us to forgive.
What other things can you add to this list?
What can you do to be like Jesus?

This week Jesus asks us to about where you put faith in your life. Where is Jesus and how do we put him first?

Here is a special message for you to decode....
​https://sundayschoolzone.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/john-a-friend-of-jesus-secret-code.pdf

For Grades 4-8  We are called to bring Christ into the world.  One of the issues facing kids is bullying. It is a very difficult experience. How would our relationship with God help us? What would Jesus do? Watch this video..... what do you think about the message? Discuss this with family and friends. It is not easy to know the best course of action but turning to God is always the right thing to do. You are NEVER alone. Be part of the solution. Do what you can to bring Jesus into every aspect of your life. Don't leave Him at church!
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Welcome to the blog for this week and the theme is God the Father's love for us and Father's day celebration. Like any good Father, God wants what is best for each of his precious children. We are reminded of his detailed care for each of us as individuals. Posted below is Fr. Gerry's homily that will help prepare our hearts to be open to the love GOD has for each. 

Some Father's Day humor..... we can all use a good laugh:

Dear Dad,
$chool i$ really great. I am making lot$ of friend$ and $tudying very hard. With all my $tuff, I $imply can't think of anything I need, $o if you would like, you can ju$t $end me a card, a$ I would love to hear from you.
Love,
Your $on

The Reply:
Dear Son,
I kNOw that astroNOmy, ecoNOmics, and oceaNOgraphy are eNOugh to keep even an hoNOr student busy. Do NOt forget that the pursuit of kNOwledge is a NOble task, and you can never study eNOugh.
Dad

​
​But seriously........ have you ever spent time just thinking about how much love God the Father has for each of us. Look no further that the timeless reminder He gives us in His Words. Below is a beautiful meditation that will give you refreshment of this TRUTH.  Listen to the meditation two times. The first time enjoy the visuals in the video and the second time just close your eyes and focus on the words.

This weekend, June 14th we celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi. This page is dedicated to helping us all dig deeper into our understanding of one of the central truths of our Catholic Faith which is the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist. We will start with the homily from Fr. Gerry.

St. Ignatius Loyola gave us a powerful prayer to use after receiving the Eucharist. Try praying this after you receive the Eucharist physically or spiritually and see how God answers your prayers.:
Anima Christi
Soul of Christ, sanctify me,
Body of Christ,save me
Blood of Christ, inebriate me,
Water from the side of Christ,wash me
Passion of Christ,strengthen me,
O Good Jesus,hear me
Within thy wounds hide me
Suffer me not to be separated from thee
From the malignant enemy defend me
In the hour of my death,call me
And bid me come unto Thee,
That with all Thy Saints,
I may praise thee forever and ever. AMEN

For more information on the history of this prayer you can go to...

​https://www.ourcatholicprayers.com/anima-christi.html
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Have you heard of Eucharistic Miracles? Science proven miracles around the world involving the Eucharist transforming into flesh and blood. Here is one of the most famous miracles.
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Why are you Catholic? Can you answer this question if someone asks you?
Here is a beautiful testimony from Jackie Angel and why she is Catholic.
​Think about your  why.

For the children... if you are looking for some "hands on activities" to open discussion on the Eucharist and Adoration go to ....
https://www.catholicicing.com/monstrance-crafts-for-catholic-kids/

Discussion questions:
Why do you think Jesus gave us this Sacrament?
How does the Eucharist help you in your daily life?
Parents.. do your remember your first Communion? Share your faith story with the family. Dig out your First Communion pictures if you have access.
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It is very important that we teach our children how to make the sign of the cross as one of their first lessons in prayer. We often times even as adults rush through with out actually thinking about what this means. 
Here is a link to some fun lessons and activities on the Holy Trinity:
​https://www.thereligionteacher.com/trinity-lesson-plan/

Here is the Pentecost homily from Fr. Gerry....

This Sunday we celebrate Pentecost, the birthday of the Church! Exactly 50 days after Easter, the Holy Spirit came to empower the disciples to carry out the mission of Christ!

Check out the link below for fun family faith activities for all ages!