Feed My Sheep: Free Lesson Plan on Service for 2024

Begin this lesson plan on service by playing the Jelly Donut Feeding game (you can find the full instructions here).

After the game, ask the group a few questions:

• Was it hard to work together on this challenge?
• Who made the biggest mess?
• Did it get easier when you stopped worrying about getting messy?

We all need to feed and be fed—though maybe not quite like that! Today, we’ll learn how Jesus gave Peter the responsibility to care for His people.

John 21:1-19 (Jesus tells Peter “Feed my sheep”) – the Gospel Reading for the 3rd Sunday of Easter – Year C

At that time, Jesus revealed himself again to his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. He revealed himself in this way. Together were Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, Zebedee’s sons, and two others of his disciples. Simon Peter said to them, “”I am going fishing.””

They said to him, “”We also will come with you.”” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

When it was already dawn, Jesus was standing on the shore; but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “”Children, have you caught anything to eat?””

They answered him, “”No.””

So he said to them, “”Cast the net over the right side of the boat and you will find something.”” So they cast it, and were not able to pull it in because of the number of fish.

So the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “”It is the Lord.”” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he tucked in his garment, for he was lightly clad, and jumped into the sea. The other disciples came in the boat, for they were not far from shore, only about a hundred yards, dragging the net with the fish. When they climbed out on shore, they saw a charcoal fire with fish on it and bread.

Jesus said to them, “”Bring some of the fish you just caught.”” So Simon Peter went over and dragged the net ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish. Even though there were so many, the net was not torn.

Jesus said to them, “”Come, have breakfast.””

And none of the disciples dared to ask him, “”Who are you?”” because they realized it was the Lord. Jesus came over and took the bread and gave it to them, and in like manner the fish. This was now the third time Jesus was revealed to his disciples after being raised from the dead.

[When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “”Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?””

Simon Peter answered him, “”Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.””

Jesus said to him, “”Feed my lambs.””

He then said to Simon Peter a second time, “”Simon, son of John, do you love me?””

Simon Peter answered him, “”Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.””

Jesus said to him, “”Tend my sheep.””

Jesus said to him the third time, “”Simon, son of John, do you love me?””

Peter was distressed that Jesus had said to him a third time, “”Do you love me?”” and he said to him, “”Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.””

Jesus said to him, “”Feed my sheep.

Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.”” He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God.

And when he had said this, he said to him, “”Follow me.”” ]

John 21:1-19

Let’s set the scene. Think back to before the crucifixion, when Peter denied Jesus. It was a dark moment for Peter. As he sat near a fire, warming himself, he denied knowing Jesus three times. He was scared, confused, and lost. But now, in this moment from the Gospel, Peter is once again sitting by a fire. This time, though, things are different. Peter doesn’t deny Jesus—instead, he affirms his love for Him. And just as Peter denied Jesus three times, Jesus now gives him three opportunities to affirm his love.

Jesus responds to each of Peter’s affirmations in a very special way:

“Feed my lambs.”

“Tend my sheep.”

“Feed my sheep.”

What’s happening here? Well, yes, Peter is being forgiven for his denial. Jesus is giving Peter a second chance, a fresh start. Peter affirms his faith and loyalty to Jesus, and Jesus shows him that he is forgiven. But it doesn’t end there. There’s more going on than just forgiveness.

Jesus is calling Peter to something greater. He’s telling Peter that this love isn’t just a feeling or words spoken in the moment. It’s a love that must lead to action. Jesus is telling Peter that if he truly loves Him, he must “tend” and “feed” the flock. He is giving Peter the responsibility to care for others, to be their shepherd. For Jesus is the Good Shepherd who cares about all of His sheep. And He doesn’t want anyone to be lost or forgotten. He wants everyone to be cared for, spiritually and physically.

Notice how this scene starts. Who is serving first? It’s Jesus. He cooks breakfast for His disciples. He sets an example by providing for them before He even asks Peter to serve. Jesus always leads by example. He shows us how to serve by doing it Himself, even though He is the Son of God. Then, He invites Peter—and all of us—to follow His lead.

So, when Jesus tells Peter to feed and tend His sheep, He is telling him to be like Him. Peter will become the first pope, the leader of the Church. But his role won’t just be to preach or teach; it will be to serve, to guide, and to care for God’s people. Peter’s love for Jesus must move him to action. Love is not passive. It demands something from us, and for Peter, that meant feeding and tending the flock. And Peter did that faithfully throughout his life.

But here’s the thing: Peter isn’t the only one called to tend and feed the sheep. We are, too. As followers of Christ, we are all called to serve. Jesus asks each of us to care for those around us, especially those who need help the most.

How can we do this? One simple way is by volunteering in our community. For example, we can serve at a soup kitchen, where we directly help feed those who don’t have enough to eat. We can collect coats and clothes for the homeless or participate in pro-life events to defend the vulnerable. We can look around at our own school and notice those who seem to be on the outside, those who feel left out or alone. Maybe there’s someone sitting by themselves at lunch—invite them to join your group. Small acts like these are ways we can “feed” and “tend” the people around us.

But Jesus isn’t just talking about physical needs. There’s also spiritual feeding and tending. How can we care for others spiritually? Start by being more active in your faith. Participate more fully at Mass. Invite your friends to join you. If you’re already involved in a youth group, invite someone new to join. You can also get involved at church by volunteering to be a lector, usher, or greeter. These acts of service within the church are just as important as helping with physical needs. You’re helping feed the spiritual hunger that people have.

Now, we shouldn’t forget the last part of this Gospel passage. Jesus not only gives Peter a mission, but He also tells Peter that following Him will involve sacrifice. Jesus says that when Peter is older, he will be led where he doesn’t want to go. This is a message for us, too. Following Jesus and serving others will involve sacrifice. It’s not always going to be easy. There will be times when we’ll have to give up things that are important to us.

We will almost certainly have to give up time—time we might prefer to spend on ourselves, doing something fun or relaxing. But the truth is, service often takes us outside of our comfort zone. Like Peter, we might be asked to go where we don’t want to go, whether that’s physically or emotionally. Maybe it’s sitting with someone we don’t know very well or helping in a situation that feels awkward or difficult. But service always involves giving something of ourselves, just as Jesus gave Himself for us.

Jesus ends this conversation with Peter with a simple command: “Follow me.” This wasn’t just for Peter—it’s for all of us. Jesus calls us to follow Him in everything, including serving others. This is the call to discipleship. We’re not just called to believe in Jesus; we’re called to act, to live out our faith in the way we love and serve those around us. So, what’s your next step in following Jesus? How will you tend and feed His sheep today?

Before starting the discussion, remind the group that this is a safe space to share their thoughts and feelings. Encourage everyone to participate but let them know it’s okay to listen if they’re not ready to speak. Allow time for thoughtful responses and be open to where the conversation leads. The questions are meant to help everyone reflect on how they can live out their faith by serving others, following the example of Peter in the Gospel.

• Think about someone in your life who may be in need of help or support. What is one thing you can do to “feed” or “tend” to them this week?
• How do you think Peter felt when Jesus asked him three times, “Do you love me?” Why do you think Jesus asked Peter this question more than once?
• Jesus told Peter to “feed my sheep.” What do you think it means to “feed” or “tend” someone spiritually or emotionally?
• Jesus served the disciples by cooking breakfast for them. What does this teach us about how we should serve others? Can you think of a time when someone served you in a simple, meaningful way?
• Peter is forgiven by Jesus and given a second chance. Have you ever been given a second chance to do the right thing? How did that experience help you grow?
• Jesus calls us to serve others, sometimes in ways that require sacrifice. What is something you might need to give up to help others more? (For example, time, comfort, or plans.)
• What are some practical ways you can “tend” or “feed” people in your life this week? How can you serve at home, school, or in your community?
• Jesus told Peter that following Him would lead to difficult places. Have you ever found it hard to do the right thing? How can we support each other in those moments?
• What does it mean to follow Jesus today? How can we show our love for Him through our actions, like Peter did?
• How can we, as a small group, work together to serve others and live out the message of this Gospel?

This week, be mindful of opportunities, big or small, to serve others. Sometimes, these chances to help may come in simple ways, like offering a kind word, helping a friend, or giving your time to someone in need. Other times, you may be called to serve in ways that stretch you outside your comfort zone. Pay attention to those moments, and don’t be afraid to take action, even if it feels difficult at first. Every act of service, no matter how small, reflects the love Jesus asks us to share.

If you feel hesitant to serve because it seems uncomfortable or overwhelming, take it to Jesus in prayer. Sit quietly with Him and imagine Him saying, “Feed my sheep.” Let Him know what’s on your heart and why you feel unsure. Be honest about your fears or concerns. Then, take a moment to listen to what He might be saying in return. Jesus will guide you and give you the strength to move forward. Trust that He is with you as you take the next step in serving those around you.

To conclude the lesson plan on service, gather your group together for a final prayer. Encourage everyone to reflect on what they’ve learned about service and how they can live it out in their daily lives. Ask them to think about the people they can help and the ways they can show Christ’s love through their actions. Then, pray together The Prayer for Generosity:

The Prayer for Generosity
Dear Lord, Teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve You as You deserve, To give and not to count the cost, To fight and not to heed the wounds, To toil and not to seek for rest, To labor and not to ask for reward, Save that of knowing that I do Your will. Amen.

Get a printable copy of the Prayer for Generosity

After the prayer, remind the group that true generosity comes from a heart focused on serving others. Encourage them to keep this prayer in their hearts throughout the week as they look for opportunities to serve.

Themes for the Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service

• Love in Action: Jesus calls us to show our love for Him by serving others. The lesson plan on service teaches that love is more than words; it must be expressed through acts of kindness and care.
• Following Jesus’ Example: Jesus served others throughout His life, even after His resurrection. We encourage youth to follow His example by putting the needs of others first.
• Shepherding God’s People: Peter is called to tend and feed the sheep, symbolizing care for others. We are also called to help those around us.
• Importance of Sacrifice: Jesus reminds Peter that following Him will require sacrifice. The lesson plan on service explains that serving others often means giving up our own comfort or time.
• Caring for the Marginalized: Jesus calls us to care for the least among us. We should focus on helping those who are often overlooked or in need of support.
• Living Out Faith: True faith is shown through action, not just words. The lesson helps youth see that their love for God is expressed by serving others.
• Responding to Jesus’ Call: Jesus asks Peter to follow Him and take action. Jesus calls each of us to serve others in our daily lives.
• Community and Service: Peter’s mission to feed the sheep shows the importance of serving within a community. The lesson emphasizes how we can strengthen our faith by helping those around us.
• Forgiveness and Second Chances: Peter is forgiven and given a new mission despite his earlier denial of Jesus. Jesus offers forgiveness and invites us to continue following Him.
• Faith in Action: Jesus’ command to feed the sheep is a reminder that faith is not passive. The lesson plan on service encourages youth to live out their faith through meaningful actions.
• Serving with Humility: Jesus humbly serves His disciples by preparing breakfast for them. This teaches that we should serve others with a spirit of humility, just as Jesus did.

Background Material for the Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service

The Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service is deeply rooted in Catholic teaching. In this Gospel passage (John 21:1-19), Jesus calls Peter to care for His flock. Jesus gives Peter the responsibility to “feed” and “tend” His sheep. This is not just about leading others but serving them with love and humility. Peter, who denied Jesus three times, is given a second chance to show his love for Christ by serving others.

Catholic teaching emphasizes that faith is not only about belief but also about action. In James 2:17, we read, “Faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.” Jesus calls Peter to demonstrate his faith by serving others. This is a key point in the lesson plan on service. It shows that as Catholics, we must not only profess our faith but live it out in concrete ways, through acts of charity and service.

In the Catholic Church, service is often referred to as “charity” or “love in action.” The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains the importance of this: “The entire Law of the Gospel is contained in the ‘new commandment’ of Jesus, to love one another as he has loved us” (CCC 1970). Service to others is a way of showing that love, reflecting Christ’s love for us.

Jesus is called the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), who lays down His life for His sheep. In the Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service, youth learn that they too are called to care for others as Jesus cares for us. This lesson plan helps young people understand that they are called to follow the example of the Good Shepherd. Just as Jesus serves and loves us, we are called to serve and love those around us, especially those who are in need.

The lesson plan on service also connects to the Church’s social teachings. The Catholic Church teaches that we must care for the poor, the marginalized, and the vulnerable. This is known as the “preferential option for the poor.” In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” By serving others, especially those who are most in need, we are serving Christ Himself.

The lesson also reflects the Catholic idea of sacrifice. Jesus tells Peter that following Him will lead to sacrifice. As Christians, we are called to offer our time, energy, and even our comfort in service to others. In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” The Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service teaches that true service requires us to put others before ourselves, just as Jesus did.

This lesson plan on service also emphasizes the importance of the Church as a community. Peter’s role as the leader of the Church shows that service is not an individual task, but a shared responsibility within the body of Christ. As the first pope, Peter was called to care for the Church, but all of us as Catholics are called to work together in service to others.

In summary, the Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service ties directly to Catholic teaching on love, charity, sacrifice, and community. It helps youth understand that faith must be lived out through acts of service, just as Jesus served us. As the Catechism reminds us, “The service of and witness to the faith are necessary for salvation” (CCC 1816). Through this lesson, youth can see how serving others is an essential part of following Jesus.

Music Suggestions for the Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service

• Do Something by Matthew West
• Rightful Place by Steve Angrisano
• I Will Follow by Chris Tomlin

More Youth Ministry Lesson Plans and Reflections

If you’re a teacher, youth minister, or catechist looking for more lesson plans like the Feed My Sheep Lesson Plan on Service, visit our website for free resources. You’ll find lesson plans, reflections, and activities to help young people grow in their faith. These materials are designed to be simple and easy to use in your ministry. Check out more free lesson plans from Young Catholics to help guide your students in following Jesus through service and discipleship.