Education in Faith

Sixth Sunday of Easter – Year B

Jesus commands his disciples to love one another.

This week’s Gospel Jesus teaches us that he is the vine and his disciples are the branches. In the example of the vine and the branches, we learn that our union with Jesus will lead to fruitful service. The readings extend his teaching to describe the kind of service that we Christians are called upon to offer to others.

In John’s Gospel, we hear Jesus affirm that he is known by the Father and that his disciples will know the Father by knowing Jesus. In this passage, however, Jesus reminds his disciples that this knowledge is to be expressed in love. Those who know Jesus well - and Jesus says that his disciples do know him - will love one another. Knowledge leads to love, which leads to action. John reminds his community that Jesus taught that love is the sign of a true disciple and, thus, a true Christian. Even more, a true disciple shows a particular kind of love, sacrificial love.

In Greek, there are two words for love that are used in this passage. The first is agape. The second is philia. The first word is most often used to describe love for other persons and

 for God. It is understood as the highest and most perfect kind of love. The second word is used to describe the affection of friendship. The root of the Greek word for friend comes from this second term for love, philia. By using this word, Jesus transforms the terms of his relationship with his disciples and redefines for them their relationship with God. In the Hebrew Scriptures, faith in God made one a servant of God.

Jesus teaches that his relationship to his disciples is based on friendship, not servitude.

John reminds his community that Jesus also taught that a disciple is one who had been chosen - one who had been chosen by Jesus. To be chosen by Jesus, however, is not to be set apart from the world. Instead, to be chosen by Jesus is to be sent to serve the world as he did. The disciples of Jesus were chosen and were sent into the world to bear fruit by serving others, by sacrificing for others, in love.

This reading, is part of Jesus’ Last Supper discourse. In the context of John’s Gospel, these words are spoken before Jesus’ Crucifixion. We read his instruction to the disciples in light of his death and Resurrection. We know that Jesus himself gives us the greatest example of the kind of love and service that he teaches to his disciples. He has, in fact, laid down his life for his friends, for his disciples, and for us. Through his death and Resurrection, we have received the grace to love others as Jesus has commanded.

Discussion Starters

• What does it mean when Jesus tells his disciples to ‘remain in my love’?
• What role does Jesus play in linking God’s love to the world?
• Why is it significant that Jesus gave this message to his disciples at the Last Supper?
• Is it possible to love others without having love for yourself?
• Who do you find it difficult to feel compassionate love towards?
• Where does Jesus’ enormous capacity to love come from?
• Is the sort of love that Jesus spoke of really possible?
• When have you felt a non-romantic love for someone else?
• What situation in your life would be changed if you responded out of love?

Sacramental Events and Dates

Dear Parents/Guardians/Caregivers,

As we embark on a new academic year, we would like to share with you important dates for our Sacramental celebrations that will take place throughout the school year. Sacraments play a significant role in the spiritual journey of our students and we need to ensure that you are well-informed and can actively participate in these meaningful events. Kindly mark the following dates on your calendar:

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Sacramental Program, celebrations or preparation process, please feel free to contact the School's Religious Education leader.

Thank you for your continued partnership in the spiritual formation of our students. We look forward to celebrating these sacred moments with you and your families as a parish community. 

May God's blessings be with you and your loved ones.

Sacrament Levy

There is a $25 Sacrament Levy to cover the cost of stoles.

•  This levy needs to be paid in full to the school in an envelope clearly indicating your child’s name, Home Group and name of Sacrament being received.

God Bless,

Rozeta Ambrose

Religious Education Leader

rambrose@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au

GRADE 5/6 SOCIAL JUSTICE TEAM – MINI VINNIES            

COMMUNITY SPIRIT HOUSE POINTS

A new term and we may have a new House leading in the Community Spirit Award points. Student are able to earn points for their House by demonstrating community spirit which includes our PBL values. The points for each House at the beginning on Term 2 are:

Well done to Patrick who has taken the lead!! However it’s still early Term 2 and there’s not even a 200 point difference between the first and fourth House. Let’s see who is leading next week.

Giuliana

gfaiola@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au