Hi there, everyone! This Sunday you will hear a story about a man who couldn’t hear or speak, and it’s pretty amazing what happens! It is found in the seventh chapter of St. Mark’s Gospel. Verses 31-37.

A group of people bring a man to Jesus who has trouble hearing and talking. They beg Jesus to help him. Jesus takes the man away from the crowd and touches his ears and his tongue. Then, he lookesup to the sky and sighs really deeply. He says a special word that means “be opened” – “ephphatha.” And guess what? The man could hear and speak! It was like magic, but it was really God’s power.

Jesus didn’t want everyone to know about this, but it was hard to keep it a secret because it was such a big deal! The people were so happy for the man and were amazed at what Jesus did.

Now, you might wonder why I’m telling you this story. Well, this story is special because the word “ephphatha” and the action of touching the ears and mouth are used in something called Baptism. When a baby is baptized, the priest touches their mouth and ears and says “ephphatha,” just like Jesus did!

Baptism is a special ceremony where someone becomes part of God’s family. It’s like a new beginning for them, and “ephphatha” is a sign that they can now hear God’s word and learn about faith.

So, next time you hear about Baptism, remember the story of the man who couldn’t hear or speak and how Jesus healed him. And remember how that special word “ephphatha” is a sign that we can all hear God’s word and learn to be good and kind to others, just like Jesus.

You might be wondering what this story has to do with you and me in our everyday lives. Let me tell you a little story that might help.

One time, there was a kid named Tommy who felt like he didn’t belong in his new school. He was shy and had trouble talking to other kids. It was like he couldn’t find his voice, just like the man in the Bible story who couldn’t speak.

Then, a new student named Emma joined Tommy’s class. She was friendly and kind. She talked to Tommy and made him feel welcome. It was like Emma was saying “ephphatha” to Tommy – she helped him feel safe and able to open up, just like Jesus did for the man in the Bible story.

With Emma’s help, Tommy found his voice and started to make lots of new friends. He was happier and more confident, just like the man in the story after Jesus healed him.

So, remember that you can be like Emma in this story – you can help others feel welcome and safe, just like she did for Tommy. And who knows, maybe someone will help you find your voice too! Always try to be kind and make others feel included. That’s how we can all be more like Jesus and make the world a better place.