Sunday, February 28, 2021
The readings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent make us think of God’s revelation of himself to us and how we recognize him. The first reading (Genesis 22:1-2, 9A, 10-13, 15-18) tells of how Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac, but God stopped him. The psalm (Psalm 116:10, 15, 16-17, 18-19) reminds us that we walk in the “land of the living”. The second reading (Romans 8:31B-34) tells us that Jesus intercedes for us. And in the gospel (Mark 9:2-10) tells of the Transfiguration, where the voice from the heavens revealed Jesus as God’s beloved son to Peter, James, and John.
Some possible themes for this weekend are prayer, listening to Jesus, and taking time away to encounter Jesus. Here are some ideas:
Transfiguration of the Lord
August 6 is the Feast of the Transfiguration. This day commemorates the day Jesus was transfigured on the mountain, traditionally thought to be Mount Tabor. This is recounted in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Peter, James, and John witnessed the event.
Lenten Activities: Go for a Quiet Walk
Consider going on a 30 minute walk as a Lenten activity. Turn off the music and walk in silence. This is an especially powerful experience for teenagers, who have a lot of noise and distraction in their lives. #Lent #GoForAWalk, #Silence
Lenten Activities: Give Up Candy and Soda for a Week
The three traditional Catholic practices during Lent are prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Long term fasting during Lent can be difficult for young children. So instead of giving up something for all of Lent they can give up something different each week. #Lent
Lenten Activities: Fast on a Day Other Than Ash Wednesday or Good Friday
Catholics are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Adding another day of fasting is a way of practicing an additional sacrifice during Lent. You can decide to fast one day per week. (Friday would be a traditional choice for this.) Or you can just fast a single day or a few days of your choosing. #Lent #fasting
The Transfiguration – Lego Video
This engaging video tells the story of the Transfiguration with Legos. Kids of all ages will appreciate this presentation of this passage from the Gospel.
Ups and Downs – Reflection and Discussion Questions
This reflection on the Transfiguration will help youth consider the ups and downs of life. Sometimes we are in a really great place, but eventually we have to come down the mountain.
Lenten Activities: Make Pretzels and Say a Prayer
The pretzel is a symbol of prayer. The twist in the pretzel is meant to look like hands in prayer. And pretzels are made with simple ingredients – no sugar, butter, eggs, milk, etc. Includes a prayer you can say together before you enjoy your pretzels.
Listen to Him
Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them.
Pray the Night Prayer from Liturgy of the Hours
The Night Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours is a really peaceful way to end my day. Some people feel like the Liturgy of the Hours is too “old fashioned” to use with teens and children, but I feel they can appreciate it.
Paper Airplane Prayer (for Youth Ministry or VBS)
Paper airplane prayers are a way to offer prayers in a group setting. It works well for Vacation Bible School or youth group. It would also be appropriate for Children’s Liturgy of the Word. It can be done indoors or outdoors.
Do Something Nice for the Environment
In his encyclical Laudato Si, Pope Francis urges us to be better stewards of the Earth, our common home. All Catholics are called to practice environmental justice. So do something nice for the environment.
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