Background Notes

Throughout history there have always been people who model Jesus through their works and words. These are justice seekers and peacemakers. Jesus taught us the importance of loving others as we love ourselves; therefore, issues of justice are central for Christians. Working for justice includes respecting the rights of others, excluding no one, and learning to resolve disagreements in ways that honor and respect the needs of all. This prayer celebration focuses on the needs of others to which justice demands response.



"Called to Compassion" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Responding to our call to be people of compassion
Materials		Prayer table, Bible, candle, music, liturgy copies
Reading		Ephesians 4:31–5:2; Psalm 46:2–3, 6–7. 9–12
Music		"The Summons," "For the Beauty of the Earth," [meditation track] Blest Are We Music CD 5; "Bring Forth the Kingdom," "Do to Others," [catechetical track] Blest Are We Music CD 3
Preparation		Discuss some of the justice and peace issues facing our country at this time. Discuss the practice of meditation with participants to help them prepare for the liturgy meditation. Select a leader and a Scripture reader, and assign sides for the antiphonal reading. Print out and photocopy the liturgy, "Called to Compassion," for participants.
Adaptation		Write the names Fr. Solanus Casey; Sr. Thea Bowman; Dorothy Day; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr; Joseph Cardinal Bernardin on the chalkboard. Share a brief example of how they each modeled Jesus’ behavior. Work with the group to prepare a bulletin board display: "Holy People." Include the name of each, a brief description, and a photo if possible.
Addtional Materials		"The Summons," "For the Beauty of the Earth," [meditation track] Blest Are We Music CD 5 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36656-5 "Bring Forth the Kingdom," "Do to Others," [catechetical track] Blest Are We Music CD 3 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36654-9 Blest Are We Song Book Words and melody for children; contains music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36617-4 Blest Are We Accompaniment Book Contains accompaniment music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36618-2