Children's Liturgy Sunday October 28th 2007

Sixth Sunday of Easter 2007
Today we had a party. In the first game, there were 5 teams, each of whom had to decide who was the most important member; set a table correctly; make a list of good table manners. The important person received a token for a prize.The important person had the right to lay down the rules. There was to be no conversation apart from a discussion about the tasks to be performed. Only 5 minutes was allowed to do all of this.
In the second game, each team decided who was the most shy member. They were to spend the rest of the time making sure the shy person enjoyed themselves. Joke books were provided. Everyone received tokens for prizes.

In today's Gospel (Luke 18: 9-14) , Jesus uses a parable to tell people how to speak to God in order to set things right.
The pharisee is concerned with obeying rules, for which he congratulates himself, thinking that will make him a better person; more important than anyone else. He looks down on others and so forgets about God ,really- he leaves no room for God, because he is full of himself.
The tax collector knows that he has made many mistakes, but he readily says he is sorry, because he cares about being close to God and wants to make things right.

We could see each day of our lives as a party: we can pat ourselves on the back, making sure we know the rules and are always winning; or we can make sure we welcome God when we try to help other people enjoy themselves.
God was seen at the second party because the guests were seen as important- they were truly seen.
Everyone received a prize - a balloon and a chocolate bar from the Fair Trade shop- or was it God's love and forgiveness?