Education in Faith

Solemnity of our Lord, Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

The Gospel (Luke 23:35–43)

This weekend’s feast brings us to the conclusion of the liturgical year. 

We celebrate Jesus as the King of the Universe but He is not a king with a crown of gold or a throne of jewels. Jesus shows us that His kingdom is built on mercy, forgiveness, and love. 

Even in His greatest moment of suffering on the cross, Jesus listens, forgives, and welcomes.

We are given a Gospel scene that reveals the true heart of Christ’s kingship: Jesus on the cross, forgiving and welcoming.

As Jesus hangs on the cross, He is mocked by soldiers and leaders who challenge Him to save Himself if He truly is the King. Yet Jesus does not answer with anger or display of power. He remains faithful to the mission of love given to Him by the Father.

One of the criminals beside Him sees this and speaks with honesty and humility. He admits his wrong doing and simply asks, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” In that moment, Jesus responds with profound mercy and gives one of the most comforting promises in Scripture:“Today you will be with me in Paradise.”

This moment reminds us that Jesus’ kingdom is one of mercy, welcome, and hope. His power is not expressed in force, but in forgiveness. His authority is not shown through riches, but through compassion.

For our families, this feast invites us to ask:What does the kingdom of Jesus look like in our home?It might look like patient conversations, quick forgiveness, noticing someone who needs help, or making space for peace in busy routines.Every small act of love builds God’s kingdom right where we are.

Discussion Starters

• How is Jesus a king different from the kings we see in movies or books?
• What words from the Gospel stood out to you today?
• Where does our family need more peace, patience, or forgiveness?
• What is one way we can make our home more like Jesus’ kingdom this week?
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Thinking About Jesus as King

• What kind of king is Jesus?
• How is Jesus different from kings or leaders we read about in stories?
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The Good Thief

• Why do you think Jesus forgave the Good Thief so quickly and kindly?
• What does this tell us about how Jesus feels about each of us?
• The Good Thief teaches us something important:It is never too late to turn to Jesus.He always remembers us.He always welcomes us.When we say, “Jesus, be with me,” Jesus responds with generosity, just like He did on the cross.

Our Home as Part of God’s Kingdom

• What would Jesus’ kingdom look like at home?
• What are some ways we can bring more peace, kindness, fairness, or forgiveness into our family?
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Turning to Jesus

• When is a time you have asked Jesus for help?
• What are some simple ways we can remember to talk to Jesus this week?
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Welcoming Love

• Who in our lives needs kindness or encouragement right now?
• How can we show the love of Jesus to someone outside our home?

As we end the liturgical year, this feast reminds families to look at the “kingdom” we create at home:

• Is it a place of kindness?
• A place of forgiveness?
• A place where people feel welcomed and loved?
• Jesus the King invites us to make our homes little pieces of His kingdom.

What makes Jesus a true King is that He rules not by force, but by love. He invites everyone not just the perfect, not just the successful, but anyone who turns to Him with an open heart.

Family Prayer

Jesus our King of Love, be the centre of our home. 

Teach us to build Your kingdom in our home.

Help us to show Your kindness and be kind, share your peace, and be forgiving, and welcoming.

Thank You for Your mercy and for always remembering us.Be the King of our hearts and our family.

Make our family a place where Your kingdom grows every day Amen.

God Bless  

Rozeta Ambrose

Religious Education Leader

rambrose@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au

COMMUNITY SPIRIT HOUSE POINTS

The total House points for each House so far:

Bosco Is still in the lead!! Well done Bosco!! Will they still be winning next week?? 

A THANK YOU FROM SVDP DANDENONG EDUCATION PROGRAM

SFS CHRISTMAS APPEAL COMING SOON!

Mini Vinnies are eagerly getting ready for our next major event of the year, the SFS Christmas Appeal. This year each Home Group will be given a family that they are putting together a hamper for and our Giving Trees will go up in each Learning Space. Mini Vinnies will discuss where they would like the Christmas presents to go to and we will let you know in the next newsletter.

AND NOW FROM THE MINI VINNIES…

Giuliana

Mini Vinnies Facilitator

gfaiola@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au