Thought for the week Week Commencing 8 th October 2018

1. Thought for the week Week Commencing 8th October 2018 “Great is the human who has not lost his childlike heart.” Mencius Pope Francis tells us: Be not childish, but be childlike in your faith to our “Daddy” God in heaven.

2. Liturgical Theme for the week Week Commencing 8th October 2018 “Being Child like” The aim of this weeks them is to encourage our students to think about valuing their childhood. It’s a funny old world isn’t it! Teenagers like to imagine that they are older than they really are. Middle aged people are more inclined to think of themselves as younger, while the old often boast about just how old they are. In this weeks gospel Jesus tells us that whatever age we are, unless we become like little children we will not enter the kingdom of God. He is really telling us that we have to be like little children who are open and trusting, knowing that God is our loving Father.

3. Monday 8th October 2018 Mark 10:13-16 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to bless them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, and blessed them.

4. Monday 8th October 2018 Paired Speaking Question What was the best thing you can remember doing when you where a small child? Class Speaking Challenge: When was the last time you reacted to a situation in a childish way? Class Discussion: What kind of situation makes you want to react like a child would. After the situation is over how do what do you feel about the way in which you reacted? Exit Pass: What was the best advice you where given when you where a child?

5. Tuesday 9th October 2018 Do you think that we expect children to grow up too quickly in todays society? Do we try and put old heads on young shoulders? In America and in the UK also, parents enter young girls into beauty competitions, they give them spray tans and false nails, lots of make up and adult looking clothes to wear. Do you think this is right? Today Father, help me to live just one day at a time, not worrying too much about what is going to happen tomorrow. Amen

6. Wednesday 10th October 2018 In many poor countries children do not have a childhood, they are forced to work long hours for very little pay. In other countries children are even forced to be child soldiers. Is this right? Dear Lord, thank you for letting me grow up in a society that values the rights of children. Help the millions of children in our world who are not as fortunate as we are. Amen

7. Thursday 11th October 2018 Sometimes when we are having a bad day, we might say “I hate school, I wish I didn’t have to go,” Teachers can think that sometimes as well! Today, think about all the benefits you have in being part of our college community. Share with your Form what you think these benefits are. Try to enjoy every day that you are in school. One day you will look back and say that they where the best days of your life. God our loving Father, thank you for everyone who contributes to the life of our college community. May we always remember how blessed we are to be able to learn and be supported in such a safe environment. Amen

8. Friday 12th October 2018 Today we have a challenge for you. When you go home tonight, say “Thank you” to Mum or Dad or the people who look after you at home. You are really important to them. Tell them about something you have done in school Lord, help me to appreciate the people at home who look after me, let me never take them for granted . Amen