The Middlers started with a mini-class in Newton’s theory of gravity. With the mathematical formula staring them down, the classical theory was taught in its classical simplicity: Every object (or mass of particles) in the universe attracts every other object in the universe along the line intersecting each object at its center point. This attractive force is proportional to the product of the two objects (or masses) and inversely proportional to the distance between them—squared.
Huh????!!!!
The teaching was clear. And yet, we didn’t become clear about the teaching until it was demonstrated. The stuff of it all was right there in front of us, but until we showed the stuff, we just couldn’t see it. So, with straws blowing balloons in the air, shoes and paper being dropped together from on high and a challenge to stand up (sitting in a straight-backed chair, arms crossed and feet flat on the floor—can’t be done!), we could see for ourselves what Newton was talking about.
In this week’s gospel, Jesus teaches in the synagogue. His teaching is clear. And yet, until he cures the man with the demon, the people aren’t clear about his teaching. It’s when he shows his stuff that they are really amazed.
In the very beginning of Mark’s gospel, we are alerted to keep our ears open to what Jesus says, but, more importantly, our eyes and hearts open to what he does. And we are challenged to do as Jesus does: once you say it, be ready to show it!
The Elementaries learned the Five Finger Prayer:
With your thumb next to your heart and your fingers extended away from you,
1. Thumb (closest): pray for those closest to you.
2.Index (pointer): pray for those who point you in the right direction.
3.Middle (tallest): pray for all the big people, the leaders of our church and country.
4. Ring (weakest): pray for the weakest, the sick, the poor, the hungry and homeless.
5. Pinky (smallest): pray for yourself, who should be the humblest of all, and if you are really humble, don’t worry—Jesus promises that the last shall be first.
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Confessions start this Tuesday, January 31, during the regular KidsRelig sessions. We will begin with 8th Grade in the first sessions on Tuesday and Thursday, and 4th Grade in the second sessions on those days. We will continue each day we are in session with grades 8 down to 3. Then, we will conclude with the 2nd Grades, which will be their First Penance.
Calendar Reminder
No KidsRelig for Grafflin on this Wednesday, February 1st.
First Communion News
First Communion is Saturday, May 12th. There are two Masses: 9:30 am and 11:30 am. There will be 64 2nd Graders receiving First Holy Communion—32 at each Mass. The list of names for each Mass was distributed in hard copy after classes this past Wednesday and Thursday, and will be distributed this coming Tuesday. The list is also posted on the KidsRelig bulletin board near the entrance to Skelly Hall. A copy will also be emailed to 2nd grade parents and posted on the website.
Love,
Deacon Charlie
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