Children's Liturgy Series: 7th Sunday of Easter (Cycle A)

Before Jesus left his friends and returned to his father in heaven, he prayed that God would stay close to them and watch over them always. In their prayers, they woul keep in touch with Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed by Thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
Amen.

Jesus looked up to heaven and said, "Father, I have finished the work you sent me to do and have told my friends all about you. They know that you sent me here, and that through your power, I have been able to do many wonderful things. They have listened to me teaching, and they truly believe in you. Father I pray that you will keep them safe and watch over them always. When I have gone, the world will still be able to see the glory of God through their faith and love.

Ask: What two things did Jesus pray for in this Gospel? (Jesus prayed that the Father would glorify him as Jesus had glorified the Father by the work he did on earth. Jesus prayed for his disciples.) 

Ask: What do you think Jesus wanted the Father to do for his disciples? (Accept all reasonable answers.)

Say: After this reading, Jesus’ prayer continues to the end of the chapter. Jesus prays for the protection of his disciples and he prays for all those who would come to believe in him because of the disciples’ teaching. That means that Jesus prayed for us as well. Our faith teaches us that Jesus continues to intercede for us at the right hand of the Father.

Dear God,
Thank you for the blessings and struggles today held.
I praise you for this day and trust that it was part of your perfect plan for me.
I'm sorry for all the things I did poorly today - help me to do better tomorrow.
Please bless my family and friends and keep us safe.
Amen.