Shepherds of the Church

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Opening Prayer

Lord Jesus,
You care for Your Church.
Help us understand the gift of the Pope and the bishops.
Teach us to listen with trust
and pray for our shepherds.
Amen.

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Part One

Jesus Chose Leaders

When Jesus walked on earth,
He did not leave His followers without guidance.

He chose twelve Apostles.

He gave them authority to teach,
to baptise,
and to lead.

To Peter in a special way He said:

“Thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church.”

Peter was given a special role
among the Apostles.

After Jesus rose from the dead,
He told Peter:

“Feed my lambs… Feed my sheep.”

From the beginning,
Christ provided shepherds for His flock.

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Scripture

“Thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church.”
(Matthew 16:18)

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Think and Discuss

Why do communities need leaders?

What does a shepherd do?

Why do you think Jesus gave Peter a special role?

How does leadership help keep the Church united?

Allow thoughtful answers.

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Part Two

The Pope

The Pope is the successor of Saint Peter.

He is the Bishop of Rome.

He serves as a visible sign of unity
for the whole Church.

The Pope does not invent new teachings.

His role is to guard and faithfully explain
what Christ has given to the Church.

When questions arise,
the Pope helps clarify the truth.

He also encourages the faithful,
calls the Church to prayer,
and speaks about justice and charity.

The Pope is not perfect as a person.

But Christ protects the Church
from teaching error in matters of faith and morals.

This protection is a gift of the Holy Spirit.

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Guidance for Adults

Explain calmly that authority in the Church is service, not power.
Model respectful speech about Church leaders.

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Part Three

The Bishops and Our Local Church

Bishops are successors of the Apostles.

Each bishop leads a diocese.

He teaches, sanctifies, and governs
the people entrusted to him.

Our parish belongs to a diocese.

Our bishop cares for all the parishes
in that region.

Priests serve under the bishop.

They help shepherd the local community.

The Church is not a loose collection of individuals.

It is structured and united.

Leadership protects truth,
guides the faithful,
and keeps the Church connected
throughout the world.

We are called to pray
for the Pope,
for our bishop,
and for our priests.

They carry great responsibility.

Christ is the true Shepherd.

The Pope and bishops serve in His name.

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Quiet Reflection

Sit quietly for a moment.

Think of the Pope,
your bishop,
and your parish priest.

Now say quietly:

“Lord, guide our shepherds.”

Remain in silence together.

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Practise This Week

Choose one:

• Pray for the Pope by name.
• Learn the name of your bishop.
• Pray for your parish priest.
• Thank God for the gift of leadership in the Church.

Choose one and keep it steady.

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Optional Response

Choose one:

Memory
Repeat slowly:
“Upon this rock I will build my church.”
Say it three times thoughtfully.

Action
Make the Sign of the Cross and say:
“Lord, keep Your Church united.”

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Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus,
Thank You for the shepherds of Your Church.
Protect them.
Guide them.
Help us remain united in truth and love.
Amen.