June 1, 2025

Ascension of the Lord - Year C

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CATECHESIS
ACTIVITIES
Messages

KID TALK

It is with regret that we must announce the discontinuation of KID TALK with Ana. After careful consideration, we have come to the difficult decision to bring this program to a close.

While we understand that this news may be disappointing to those who have enjoyed the content provided by KID TALK, we must also acknowledge the importance of managing our resources effectively. Unfortunately, the audience engagement we experienced did not align with the time and effort invested in producing this show.

We remain committed to bringing you high-quality content that addresses the interests and needs of our diverse audience, and we invite you to explore our other offerings.

As we move forward, we encourage you to continue seeking content that enriches and informs, and to stay connected with us as we evolve and grow in our mission to serve our community.

Prayer Table
Symbols

Here are a few prayer symbols that resonate with the readings that are suitable for Catholic children:

Clouds – Represent the manner in which Jesus ascended to heaven (Acts 1:9). Clouds symbolize the connection between heaven and earth, reminding children that Jesus is now in heaven but still present in their lives.
Dove – Symbolizes the Holy Spirit, which Jesus promised to send to his disciples after his ascension (Acts 1:8). The dove represents guidance and comfort, helping children understand the ongoing presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
Cross – Represents Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection, which preceded his ascension. The cross helps children remember that through his death and resurrection, Jesus opened the way to eternal life.
Ascending figure – Depicts Jesus’ ascension and the promise of his return (Acts 1:11). This symbol reminds children of Jesus’ ongoing presence and the hope of his return in glory.
Hand reaching down – Symbolizes the ongoing connection between heaven and earth, illustrating how Jesus remains close to his followers even after his ascension. This symbol encourages children to trust in Jesus’ promise of guidance and support.

Liturgy of the Word

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

Download Activity Packet (PDF)

A resource page for those who minister in the community by facilitating Children’s Liturgy of the Word. Activity sheets can be useful as take-home material for family follow-up, but they are not appropriate to be used during a liturgical celebration.

SOURCE: Catholic Diocese of Auckland

Your Support Matters

This website receives only 30,000 views per month, which falls short of the goal of 50,000. This has led to difficult decisions to cut back on several sections and features. Please spread the word so this website grows. Share your favorite articles, features, and experiences with fellow priests and deacons, parish leaders and ministers, your friends, and family, and on social media.

Additionally, I invite you to use the comment section at the bottom of the pages to engage. Share what you like or dislike, offer suggestions, and other constructive feedback. Understanding what matters most to you will enable me to prioritize me efforts and focus on creating and curating content that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Fr. Don

Catechism
of the Catholic Church

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SOURCE: St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Picayune, MS

Catholic Kids Media

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

SOURCE: Catholic Kids Media

Bishop Mark O’Connell

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

SUMMARY OF VIDEO w/ TIMESTAMPS ✨

SOURCE: Bishop Mark O’Connell

The Religion Teacher

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

SUMMARY OF VIDEO w/ TIMESTAMPS ✨

SOURCE: The Religion Teacher

Faith-Based Videos

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

TIPS FOR CATHOLIC CATECHISTS & PARENTS WHEN SHOWING VIDEOS FROM NON-CATHOLIC SOURCES

IMPORTANT: YouTube has many videos from various Christian backgrounds. Although some are not suitable for Catholic catechesis, others can enrich children’s spiritual journey when used thoughtfully. Click on the banner below each video to view tips to help these videos more align with Catholic teachings. It’s crucial to review each video and consult the Catechism before sharing with children.

Superbook (1:40)

Ascension of Jesus Christ

From a Catholic perspective, the video appears to be a dramatic retelling of the events surrounding Jesus’ Resurrection and Ascension. It communicates some key scriptural events and captures both the awe and mission Jesus gave to His disciples. However, a Catholic teacher should be aware of the following theological differences, emphases, or omissions before presenting it in the classroom.

TIPS FOR CATHOLIC CATECHISTS & PARENTS ✨

1. Scriptural Interpretation and Authority
The dialogue in the video appears to paraphrase Scripture closely, particularly Acts 1:6–11, but it lacks explicit recognition of sacred Scripture as interpreted by the Magisterium, the Church's teaching authority. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), authentic interpretation of the Word of God is entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone (CCC 85). Teachers should remind students that Scripture is not to be interpreted privately, but under the guidance of the Church.

2. The Role of Mary
The video mentions Mary in passing as one who was present with disciples, but it does not reflect her unique and elevated role in salvation history, especially in the context of the early Church. Mary was likely present at the Ascension and most certainly present at Pentecost (Acts 1:14). The Church teaches her role as intercessor and Mother of the Church (CCC 963–975). A Catholic teacher might wish to highlight her presence and importance explicitly.

3. The Definition of the Church as Witness
The phrase from Jesus about being witnesses 'in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth' is quoted accurately (Acts 1:8), but the video does not explain that this mission is carried on today by the Church, especially through the apostolic succession and the sacraments. The CCC teaches that the Church is apostolic in her origin and mission (CCC 857), and this mission is visible and public through the sacraments and hierarchy.

4. Role of the Holy Spirit
The promise of the Holy Spirit is mentioned, but the Catholic understanding includes more than simply receiving 'power.' The Holy Spirit is the soul of the Church (CCC 797); He sanctifies the Church through the sacraments, most especially in Confirmation (CCC 1302–1305). Teachers should connect the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost with the sacraments of initiation.

5. Jesus' Ascension and Second Coming
The video accurately describes Jesus ascending into heaven and being taken up before the disciples. The statement that Jesus will return 'in the same way' is consistent with Acts 1:11. Still, the Catholic understanding connects the Ascension to Christ's present role in interceding for us and preparing a place for us (CCC 665–667). His second coming is associated with the Final Judgment (CCC 681–682), which is not mentioned in the video.

6. Eschatological Hope and Resurrection of the Body
The video focuses on the visible departure of Christ but misses an opportunity to explain that Catholics believe in the resurrection of the body and life everlasting (CCC 988–1004). Teachers should be aware that Ascension is not just about Jesus leaving, but about His glorification and promise that we too are called to share in His glory.

7. Overall Tone and Presentation
The tone is dramatic and emotionally engaging, which can be good for younger audiences. However, it may oversimplify or dramatize certain scriptural elements without offering the depth of Catholic theology. Teachers should be ready to follow up with doctrinal teachings that give added richness and clarity.

Conclusion:
This video is mostly faithful to the biblical account and can be appropriate for Catholic education with proper guidance. However, Catholic teachers should supplement content with catechetical instruction, particularly on the nature of the Church, the role of Mary, the sacraments, and Jesus' ongoing presence in the Church through His Spirit. Adding citations and context from the Catechism of the Catholic Church will help root the experience in authentic Catholic doctrine.

Ministry to Children (7:21)

Ascension of Jesus

This video provides a warm, engaging explanation of the Ascension of Jesus using the analogy of air travel. From a Catholic perspective, it generally aligns with Christian teaching but requires a few clarifications and points of attention for a Catholic teacher before showing it to a class.

TIPS FOR CATHOLIC CATECHISTS & PARENTS ✨

1. Emphasis on Individual Interpretation:
The video takes a personal, somewhat generic Protestant approach to the story of the Ascension. It lacks specific mention of the Church as the Body of Christ and omits the sacramental dimension of the Christian life. A Catholic catechist should supplement this with Church teaching found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), especially regarding the communal nature of the Church and its sacramental life.

CCC 765 teaches that Jesus' mission included gathering the people of God to form the Church. CCC 771 further explains that the Church is both visible and spiritual, a community led by the apostles.

2. The Role of the Apostles and the Church:
While the video emphasizes that the disciples were tasked to share the good news and carry on the mission, it does not clarify the uniquely apostolic nature of that commission as understood in Catholic teaching. According to CCC 857, the Church is apostolic because she is founded on the apostles, and their mission continues through the bishops, successors to the apostles.

3. The Holy Spirit and the Sacraments:
The promise of the Holy Spirit is mentioned, but it is portrayed more as a spiritual 'helper' without reference to the sacramental gift of the Holy Spirit imparted fully at Pentecost and to each believer in the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. CCC 1287 highlights that the fullness of the Holy Spirit is conferred particularly in the sacrament of Confirmation.

4. The Nature of Christ’s Return:
The video portrays the return of Christ as something we wait for with hope and patience, which is true, but Catholic doctrine emphasizes the return of Christ in glory at the end of time, accompanied by judgment. CCC 665–667 discusses Christ's Ascension and exaltation, while CCC 681–682 clarifies the final judgment and Christ’s second coming.

5. Heaven and the Christian Life:
The video suggests that ‘our home will be in heaven with Jesus’ in a way that can come across as a simplified or somewhat individualistic hope. Catholic belief teaches that heaven is union with God (CCC 1023), but it also emphasizes the resurrection of the body and a new heaven and a new earth (CCC 1042–1050). The concept of Purgatory and the Communion of Saints are also absent from this narrative.

6. The Absence of the Eucharist:
The video misses the central means by which Catholics receive Jesus and live in communion with Him and with one another—the Eucharist. CCC 1324 states that the Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life.

7. Prayer:
The closing prayer is positive and accessible to children, but it lacks traditionally Catholic elements such as invoking the Trinity in the sign of the cross or references to Mary or the saints. A Catholic teacher might want to lead students in a more distinctly Catholic prayer after watching the video.

Conclusion:
This video is generally appropriate to use in a Catholic classroom as long as the teacher supplements it with Catholic understanding. Clarifications are needed regarding the Church’s role, the sacraments, the nature of Christ’s return, and the communal aspects of Christian mission. It is a good springboard but not complete in itself for proper catechesis according to Catholic teaching.

KID’S BIBLE HISTORY (16:33)

Jesus’ Ascension

This video series, while engaging, creative, and clearly designed for children’s ministry within a Christian context, presents some key concerns from a Catholic theological perspective. A Catholic teacher considering the use of this video in catechesis should be aware of the following issues and areas that may require clarification or supplementation in fidelity to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC).

TIPS FOR CATHOLIC CATECHISTS & PARENTS ✨

1. Use of the Sinner’s Prayer and Invitation for a Personal Commitment
In this series, children are invited to individually ask Jesus into their hearts using an informal prayer. While Catholics affirm the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus and individual faith in Him (CCC 1428-1430), the presentation in the video reflects a Protestant Evangelical model of conversion-focused altar calls, absent of any reference to the sacraments or the communal context of the Church.

In Catholic teaching, the normative way in which one enters into communion with Christ is through the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist (CCC 1212). A Catholic teacher should make it clear that while prayer and personal commitment are essential, they do not substitute for sacramental grace instituted by Christ.

2. Omission of the Sacraments, especially Baptism and Eucharist
The video never references sacraments, including Baptism, which is the means by which original sin is forgiven and one becomes a member of the Church (CCC 977-978). While the message of converting hearts to Jesus is beautiful, Catholic students need to understand that it is through the sacraments, especially Baptism (CCC 1213) and the Eucharist (CCC 1324), that grace is truly received and life in Christ is sustained.

3. No Reference to the Church
The video frequently uses personal language (e.g. 'Jesus is my best friend') and emphasizes individualism over communal belonging. This reflects a Protestant understanding of salvation as primarily individualistic. By contrast, Catholic theology emphasizes that we are saved as part of the Body of Christ, the Church (CCC 781, CCC 846).

A Catholic teacher should underscore that belonging to the Church is essential to growing in faith and fulfilling Jesus' mission. Jesus established the Church as the instrument of salvation – her teaching, liturgy, and community all guide believers in following Christ.

4. Misleading Interpretation of the Ascension
The portrayal of the Ascension using cotton candy imagery, while child-friendly, risks trivializing this theologically rich event. The video says, 'Jesus didn't have to die to go to heaven. He just disappeared on a cloud.' This oversimplifies and potentially distorts Catholic teaching.

According to the CCC, Christ's Ascension marks a definitive entrance of Jesus' humanity into divine glory, not merely a disappearance (CCC 659-660). While metaphors can help children understand abstract truths, teachers must balance creativity with clarity, ensuring students understand that the Ascension involves Christ returning to the Father, where He intercedes for us (CCC 665-667).

5. The Cotton Candy/Candy Factory Theme
While the colorful, imaginative setting can be engaging and age-appropriate, Catholic teachers should exercise caution and discernment in using highly commercialized or entertainment-heavy formats for catechesis. There is a risk of reducing sacred mysteries to visual gimmicks without proper theological depth and reverence. This type of teaching, if not followed up with solid content, could lead children to view the mysteries of faith as lighthearted rather than life-transforming.

6. Explanation of Salvation
The teaching that 'Jesus died for everyone' and offers His love freely is true and properly rooted in universal salvific will (CCC 605). However, Catholic soteriology teaches not automatic universalism, but that salvation requires cooperation with grace and full participation in the sacramental life (CCC 1949-1996). Teachers must present salvation as an ongoing journey involving faith, good works, prayer, sacraments, moral living, and conversion.

7. Simplistic Presentation of Deep Doctrines
The video avoids any mention of sin (beyond a generic line about 'not having it all together') or the need for ongoing conversion. It feeds into a very emotionally driven portrayal of Jesus as 'friend' without also teaching His identity as Lord and Judge (CCC 678). Catholic formation requires a balance of God’s justice and mercy.

Conclusion
While this video can be appreciated for its creativity and child-focused engagement, a Catholic teacher should be cautious in using it for catechesis. It lacks essential elements of sacramental theology, ecclesiology, and the properly nuanced understanding of salvation as taught in the Catholic Church. If shown, the teacher must intentionally supplement with Catholic doctrine, especially references from the Catechism, to present a more complete and faithful understanding of Jesus' Passion, Resurrection, and Ascension within the context of the Church and the sacramental life.

t be immediately accompanied by solid catechesis on the true source of Christian peace: Jesus Christ present in the Church, the Sacraments, and through the Holy Spirit.

The Orchard Church (10:53)

Jesus Promised the Holy Spirit

This video offers a heartfelt and biblically grounded explanation of the role of the Holy Spirit as a helper for Christians, and it uses relatable analogies to communicate with children. While it successfully presents many ideas that align with Catholic teaching, there are key theological distinctions that a Catholic teacher should be aware of and address in the classroom.

TIPS FOR CATHOLIC CATECHISTS & PARENTS ✨

1. The Holy Spirit as a Divine Person
The video correctly identifies the Holy Spirit as a person and not simply a force or idea, which is crucial and consistent with the Catholic Catechism:

Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 689–690 teaches that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Blessed Trinity, consubstantial with the Father and the Son. He is not just 'God's help' but is indeed God, sharing the divine nature with the other persons of the Trinity.

The phrase ‘he is the spirit of truth’ and the use of personal pronouns are accurate, and it is crucial to emphasize that the Holy Spirit is truly divine, not merely an impersonal helper or emotional presence.

2. Holy Spirit Dwelling in Us — Sacramental Understanding Needed
The video makes the statement that the Holy Spirit lives in us when we believe in Jesus and respond to Him. While partially true, from a Catholic perspective this must be clarified and understood in the context of the Sacraments.

CCC 1277: 'Baptism... is birth into the new life in Christ. In accordance with the Lord’s will, it is necessary for salvation, as is the Church herself, which we enter by Baptism.'

CCC 1302–1303 also indicates that in the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Holy Spirit is given in His fullness to the believer.

Belief alone is not the Catholic understanding of incorporation into the life of grace. Rather, it is through the sacraments, beginning with Baptism, that the Holy Spirit is first poured into the soul. Catholic students must be taught that sacramental grace, not only faith, is the ordinary means by which the Holy Spirit dwells within us.

3. Oversight of the Role of the Church and the Sacraments
While the video encourages children to pray, read the Bible, and go to church, it stops short of emphasizing the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Reconciliation, through which Christ and the Holy Spirit continue to be present and active.

CCC 739: 'Because the Holy Spirit is the anointing of Christ, it is Christ who... communicates his Spirit to the members of his Body to nourish, heal, and organize them in their mutual functions.'

The omission of the sacraments as channels of the Holy Spirit needs to be addressed. A Catholic teacher should explain that the Church is the Body of Christ and the primary means through which we encounter and receive the Holy Spirit in a tangible way.

4. Language around Conversion and Salvation
The video includes a call for those who 'don’t know Jesus' to 'ask for repentance and confess that Jesus is Lord... and that the Holy Spirit will live in them.' This language is indicative of Evangelical Protestant theology, which emphasizes a personal, verbal confession as the point of salvation and reception of the Holy Spirit.

Catholic theology teaches that while personal faith and a relationship with Jesus are essential, entrance into the Christian life and reception of the Holy Spirit happens primarily through the sacraments, as noted above. The language of accepting Jesus into one’s heart and then receiving the Holy Spirit should be supplemented with catechesis on the sacramental life.

5. Emphasis on the Need for Help
The comparison to riding a bike or tying shoes solidly illustrates our human need for guidance and support. This can serve as a good foundation to explain that grace perfects our nature and that growth in holiness is a process of being formed by God’s grace, not merely motivation.

CCC 2001: 'The preparation of man for the reception of grace is already a work of grace.'

The video uses relatable examples but stops short of explicitly naming grace, and that omission should be addressed by the Catholic teacher.

6. Encouraging Message and Proper Use of Scripture
The reference to John 14 and Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit is well-explained. The message that Jesus does not leave us as orphans and that the Holy Spirit remains in us is both pastorally sensitive and doctrinally sound.

CCC 729: 'Only when the hour has arrived for his glorification does Jesus promise the coming of the Holy Spirit, since his Death and Resurrection will fulfill the promise made to the fathers.'

This is a strong hyperlink between Scripture and the Church’s understanding of the action of the Spirit.

Conclusion and Recommendation:
This video is emotionally engaging, biblically oriented, and suitable for children in many ways. However, from a Catholic perspective, the teacher should take time to clarify:

- The Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us primarily through Baptism and the sacraments, not only through belief.
- Faith must be lived in the context of the Church, with the sacraments as the privileged way to encounter God.
- Peace and help from the Holy Spirit are fruits of sanctifying grace, which increases as we cooperate with God's will through His Church (CCC 1830–1832).

With appropriate catechetical support, this video can be a useful tool, provided the Catholic theological framework is reinforced through classroom discussion and teaching.

Compass Bible Church (19:57)

Acts 15:1-35

This video includes engaging and creative content geared toward helping children understand the biblical message that salvation is a gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ. It centers on Ephesians 2:8–9 and Acts 15, and conveys an important scriptural truth: that we are saved by grace and not by works. While much of the video’s message is in accord with Catholic teaching, there are several significant differences or areas for clarification that a Catholic teacher should address before showing it in a Catholic classroom.

TIPS FOR CATHOLIC CATECHISTS & PARENTS ✨

1. The Catholic Church does NOT teach Faith Alone — Sola Fide

The video underscores repeatedly that salvation is by grace through faith and not through works, aligning clearly with Protestant (especially Evangelical) soteriology known as sola fide, or 'faith alone'. While the Catholic Church does affirm that initial justification is by grace through faith and that our works cannot earn salvation apart from grace (CCC 1987–1996), it does not teach a faith-alone theology.

CCC 1993: 'Justification establishes cooperation between God's grace and man's freedom. Man's response to God's initiative includes both faith and works.'

CCC 2008: 'The merit of man before God in the Christian life arises from the fact that God has freely chosen to associate man with the work of his grace. Merit is to be ascribed in the first place to the grace of God, and secondarily to man's collaboration.'

Catholic students must understand that while we cannot earn salvation strictly by our own efforts, our free response to God's grace — expressed through acts of love, obedience, repentance, and participation in the sacraments — is necessary within the life of grace. Emphasizing faith alone, as this video does, without a discussion of the importance of works in the Christian life can give students an incomplete and inaccurate view of salvation.

2. No Mention of the Sacraments

While the video mentions repentance, belief, and faith in Christ, it makes no mention of the sacramental life — particularly Baptism, which Catholics understand as the initiation into the life of grace and the reception of the Holy Spirit (CCC 1213, CCC 1262).

According to Catholic teaching, grace is not only God's unmerited favor in a general sense, but is concretely given to us through the sacraments instituted by Christ. Baptism is necessary for salvation (CCC 1257), and the Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life (CCC 1324). Also absent are Confession, Confirmation, and other means by which grace is nourished and restored.

Catholic educators must supplement the video's content by explaining how sacramental grace — not personal faith alone — is the ordinary means by which God communicates His saving work to us.

3. Misleading Analogy in the Mock Courtroom Scene

The courtroom skit featuring a country club membership is entertaining, and it illustrates the point that salvation is not earned by effort or background, but is a freely given gift. This aligns with Catholic understanding in that we cannot merit the initial grace of justification (CCC 2010).

However, the scene may reinforce the Protestant interpretation that nothing we do genuinely matters in our salvation — a view that the Church does not adopt. Catholic tradition teaches that our continued cooperation with grace through good works, charity, and the sacraments matters for our ongoing conversion and final perseverance (CCC 2011, CCC 2027). Teachers should ensure children understand that this 'gift' analogy must include our ongoing collaboration with God.

4. Encouragement of Scripture Memory and Reading

A strong positive in the video is the encouragement to memorize Scripture and read the Bible with family. This practice is vital in forming young Catholics in the faith. The Church affirms:

CCC 133: 'The Church forcefully and specifically exhorts all the Christian faithful… to learn the surpassing knowledge of Jesus Christ, by frequent reading of the divine Scriptures.'

Scripture memory, reading, and engagement are to be praised — provided they are also grounded in the living Tradition and teaching authority of the Catholic Church.

5. No Reference to the Church as the Body of Christ

The video presents the Christian life as an individual relationship between the believer and Jesus. While personal faith is essential, Catholic teaching emphasizes that we are saved in and through the Church, the Body of Christ (CCC 781, CCC 846).

Children should know that faith is not merely personal but ecclesial: lived out in community, worship, and sacramental participation. Teachers may need to stress this dimension so students do not adopt an overly individualistic view of salvation.

6. Absence of the Role of the Holy Spirit in the Church

While the Acts 15 reference does briefly mention the Holy Spirit confirming that Gentiles are saved by faith, there is little to no discussion of the Holy Spirit’s continued role in the Church today — through the sacraments, the magisterium, and Church unity (CCC 688).

Catholic educators should take this opportunity to elaborate on how the Council of Jerusalem in Acts prefigures the authority of the Church (especially the pope and bishops) to teach and clarify doctrine — an essential element of Catholic ecclesiology.

7. Positive Engagement, Creativity, and Message of God's Gift

Despite its theological limitations from a Catholic standpoint, the video is creatively engaging, very well suited for young audiences, and communicates that God’s grace is a gift — a central theme in Catholic theology (CCC 1996–2000). Teachers can use the video to spark curiosity and discussion, provided they follow up with clarifying catechesis.

Conclusion and Recommendations:

Positives:
- Affirms core scriptural message about grace as a gift.
- Promotes scripture memory and Bible reading.
- Addresses key stories from Acts and emphasizes God's love.

Cautions:
- Emphasizes 'faith alone' theology, which contradicts Catholic teaching.
- Lacks mention of the sacraments (especially Baptism and Eucharist).
- Reinforces individualistic view of salvation over communal and sacramental dimensions.
- Omits role of the Church and the authority of the apostles (important in Acts 15).

A Catholic teacher may use this video within a broader lesson, but it should be accompanied by careful explanation of how salvation involves an ongoing journey of grace and cooperation with God, lived out within the Church and its sacramental life. Clarification is also needed regarding the inadequacy of 'faith alone' theology from a Catholic doctrinal standpoint.

Epiphany Lutheran Church (3:09)

The Jerusalem Council

This video is a simplified children’s explanation of the Council of Jerusalem found in Acts 15 and seems to be produced from a broadly Evangelical or Protestant perspective. While it provides a generally accurate summary of the events in Acts 15, there are key theological differences that a Catholic teacher should address before showing this video to a class within a Catholic context.

TIPS FOR CATHOLIC CATECHISTS & PARENTS ✨

Key Points to Note from a Catholic Perspective:

1. Misleading Simplification: 'Saved by Faith Alone'
- The central theological message presented in the video is that the early Church answered the question, 'Can someone be saved by faith alone?' with a resounding 'yes.' This reflects a traditional Protestant teaching, particularly from Martin Luther's theology.
- However, the Catholic Church does not teach that we are saved by faith alone. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), justification and salvation involve both faith and works. It is by God's grace we are saved, but cooperation with that grace through faith and good works is essential.

CCC 1987: 'The grace of the Holy Spirit has the power to justify us, that is, to cleanse us from our sins and to communicate to us the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ.'

CCC 1989: 'Justification is not only the remission of sins, but also the sanctification and renewal of the interior man.'

CCC 2008: 'The merit of man before God in the Christian life arises from the fact that God has freely chosen to associate man with the work of his grace.'

2. Role of the Council of Jerusalem
- The video correctly identifies the Council of Jerusalem as a significant gathering where the apostles and elders clarified the requirements for Gentile converts.
- From a Catholic viewpoint, the Council of Jerusalem also shows the early exercise of Church authority and the collegial nature of Church decisions. It is an example of Apostolic Tradition and a prefiguration of the Magisterium (the Church's teaching authority).

CCC 880-892 treat the Church's teaching authority and how the bishops, in communion with the Pope, continue the apostolic mission.

3. Simplification of Grace and Law
- The message in the video seems to dismiss the ongoing role of moral and religious precepts by implying that Jesus 'is all we need' and 'faith in Him alone' is sufficient. While it's true that salvation is through Jesus, the Catholic Church teaches that believers still have moral obligations and are called to ongoing conversion.

CCC 2027: 'No one can merit the initial grace of forgiveness and justification, at the beginning of conversion. Moved by the Holy Spirit, we can then merit for ourselves and for others all the graces needed to attain eternal life.'

4. Importance of the Sacraments
- The video neglects the role of the sacraments in salvation, which are central in Catholic theology. Baptism, for instance, is the ordinary means by which one enters the Christian life and is necessary for salvation (CCC 1257).

Recommendations for Catholic Teachers:

- Before showing this video, clarify to students that while the early Church rejected the idea that Gentile Christians must follow all Old Testament laws (like circumcision), the Church did not adopt a 'faith alone' theology.
- Emphasize that salvation involves faith and cooperation with God's grace through the sacraments and good works.
- After the video, use passages from the Catechism and Scripture (such as James 2:24: 'You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone') to reinforce Catholic teaching.
- Help students understand the authority of Church councils and how the Holy Spirit guides the Magisterium in teaching truth across history.

In summary, the video provides a useful jumping-off point to discuss early Church decisions and the spread of Christianity, but a Catholic educator should offer important doctrinal clarifications to ensure alignment with Catholic teaching.

Ascension of the Lord

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

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S.D.C. is a Catholic Society that works in the field of Catechesis and the spreading of the Word of God in different ways. READ MORE

SOURCE: SDC Sunday Liturgy Resources

Catholic Kids Bulletin

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

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The Kids’ Bulletins are a resource for Catholic kids who would like to have some fun while learning about the readings from the Sunday Mass every week. (Ordinary Form) They are made by a mom in Canada who is happy to share them with anyone who can use them to help learn or teach about the truth and beauty of the Faith.

SOURCE: Catholic Kids Bulletin

Catholic Mom

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

COLORING ACTIVITY

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GOSPEL ACTIVITY

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Enjoy Catholic coloring pages, lesson plans, Mass worksheets, puzzles, and more to help you prepare for Sunday Mass. These activities, prepared by the Catholic Mom Sunday Gospel Team, are free for you to print and share with your family, classroom, or parish.

SOURCE: Catholic Mom

6th Sunday of Easter Year C (May 25, 2025) Free Resources and Reflections

I Am With You: Free Lesson Plan on the Holy Spirit (John 14:23-29)

Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit Worksheet (Cryptogram): 7 Gifts and 12 Fruits

The Acts of the Apostles: Free Resources for 2025

Psalm 67: Share God’s Blessings, Embrace Love

Ascension of the Lord

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

Catholic Kids Bulletin

Download 4-pages (PDF)

The Kids’ Bulletins are a resource for Catholic kids who would like to have some fun while learning about the readings from the Sunday Mass every week. (Ordinary Form) They are made by a mom in Canada who is happy to share them with anyone who can use them to help learn or teach about the truth and beauty of the Faith.

SOURCE: Catholic Kids Bulletin

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

Dollar Store Sermon

DOLLAR STORE CHILDREN’S SERMONS (7:18) -This video is presented by John Stevens, a Lutheran (ECLA) pastor.

SUMMARY w/ TIMESTAMPS ✨

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

Sermons 4 Kids

Up, Up and Away!

OBJECTS: Hand each child a helium balloon, tying the string loosely to their wrist. Challenge them to hold their balloon down in their lap until they are given the cue “up, up and away.” Remind them of the importance of holding tightly to the balloon and listening for their cue to release their balloon.

I’m sure you know that when filled with helium, a balloon floats in the air. And it’s also quite enjoyable when it does float away from you. It’s fun to stand and watch as the balloon floats higher and higher into the heavens until it totally disappears. The only way to experience that is to be willing to let it go.

In today’s Bible lesson in the book of Acts, we learn that when Jesus was ready to return to heaven, He took His disciples aside to make sure that they understood everything that had happened to Him. He explained why it was important for Him to be crucified and to be raised from the dead to fulfill what the Scriptures had said about Him. He also told them that he was going to return to His Father in heaven and that the Holy Spirit would come to be with them.

Dot to Dot › Group Activities › Coloring Page › Decoder › Maze › Word Search

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SOURCE: Sermon 4 Kids

Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

Sermon Writer

The Church’s Job

OBJECTS: a wall mirror

When Jesus came to live on earth, he told people about God. Many people who heard what Jesus said began to follow him. They wanted to know more about God. Jesus put all these people into a big group. Nobody was left just by themselves. He called the people in that group “disciples.” A disciple is someone who learns important things from one teacher. Jesus was the teacher; the people who followed Jesus were what? Disciples!

Today there are thousands and thousands and thousands of these groups of people who love and follow Jesus. These groups are all over the world. Can anyone tell me what these groups are called [respect all answers]. You are in one of these groups right now. That’s right. They are called churches.

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Ascension of the Lord (Year C)

What Goes Before

OBJECTS: None

I’m going to ask you to help with today’s lesson. Here is the idea: sometimes certain things must happen before another thing can occur. Here are some examples to get you started.

Do you like to bake? Then you know you must first place the cake batter in the oven and let it bake before you can put frosting on the cake.

You need to sleep before you can wake up in the morning.

If you like to eat popcorn you must first open the hard kernels of corn by popping them over heat.

Let’s hear your ideas of something that needs to happen before another thing can occur.

The story of Jesus dying on the cross is that kind of story–– certain things had to happen before Jesus returned to be with God. It is a difficult story that has a happy ending.

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Comments

Please give us your feedback. Tell us what you like or dislike so this website can continue to improve. Also, if you have any creative ideas or fun activities planned for the children in your parish this Sunday, share them below.

4 thoughts on “CHILDREN – Ascension C”

Annie says:

May 31, 2025 at 6:57 pm

NOOOOO! I didn’t realize I was supposed to RESPOND to KID TALK with Ana! I just USED it as a resource every week with the children in our parish. I thought it was a great support, and vastly more useful than all of the others. So sorry to see it go, and warm thanks to those who have been putting it together so beautifully.

1. Administrator says:
  
  June 1, 2025 at 7:11 am
  
  Thank you for sharing your appreciation for the Kid Talk with Ana resource. I am delighted to hear it has been a valuable support for you and the children. As the website continues to develop, it’s encouraging to know that Kid Talk has made a positive impact. I was just disappointed that it appeared no one was utilizing it. If you, or any other parishioners, have additional feedback or suggestions on how this website can better serve your needs, please don’t hesitate to share them. — Fr. Don
  
Annie says:

May 31, 2025 at 7:00 pm

That said – we’re giving little bottles of bubbles to the children as they leave church. It is just a fun way to connect them to the concept of something beautiful – rising and disappearing. To help children connect with the vocabulary, I typically have them climb up (ascend) and descend a step stool. I have had several children reveal that it was a memorable exercise, so I continue to use it.

1. Administrator says:
  
  June 1, 2025 at 7:58 am
  
  Your use of a step stool to demonstrate the actions of ascending and descending is a fantastic hands-on approach to learning. It’s great to hear that several children have found this exercise memorable. Keep up the great work, and thank you for sharing your ideas.

The Word This Week

CHILDREN – Ascension C

KID TALK

Prayer Table
Symbols

A resource page for those who minister in the community by facilitating Children’s Liturgy of the Word. Activity sheets can be useful as take-home material for family follow-up, but they are not appropriate to be used during a liturgical celebration.

SOURCE: Catholic Diocese of Auckland

Your Support Matters

Catechism
of the Catholic Church

Ascension of Jesus Christ

Ascension of Jesus

Jesus’ Ascension

Jesus Promised the Holy Spirit

Acts 15:1-35

The Jerusalem Council

S.D.C. is a Catholic Society that works in the field of Catechesis and the spreading of the Word of God in different ways. READ MORE

SOURCE: SDC Sunday Liturgy Resources

SOURCE: Mark 10 Mission Files

SOURCE: Catholic Kids Bulletin

Enjoy Catholic coloring pages, lesson plans, Mass worksheets, puzzles, and more to help you prepare for Sunday Mass. These activities, prepared by the Catholic Mom Sunday Gospel Team, are free for you to print and share with your family, classroom, or parish.

SOURCE: Catholic Mom

Catholic Kids Bulletin

SOURCE: Catholic Kids Bulletin

Dollar Store Sermon

Sermons 4 Kids

Up, Up and Away!

Sermon Writer

The Church’s Job

What Goes Before

Homeschool Resources Sunday Readings

Homeschool Resources Sunday Readings

Comments

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4 thoughts on “CHILDREN – Ascension C”

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KID TALK

Prayer TableSymbols

A resource page for those who minister in the community by facilitating Children’s Liturgy of the Word. Activity sheets can be useful as take-home material for family follow-up, but they are not appropriate to be used during a liturgical celebration.

SOURCE: Catholic Diocese of Auckland

Your Support Matters

The Mark 10 Mission

Mary Jo Cole

Jesus Returns to Heaven - June 1, 2025

Jesus' ascension into heaven after his resurrection serves as a powerful reminder of his love and encourages us to spread kindness and good deeds while awaiting the Holy Spirit's guidance.

Father Edward

Children's Liturgy of the Word: May 29, 2022 - Ascension of Jesus

The ascension of Jesus emphasizes the importance of spreading repentance and forgiveness, while encouraging the practice of novenas to deepen one's connection with the Holy Spirit.

Father Glenn

Uganda CTV

C𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐲: Ascension Sunday of Our Lord - 29th May 2022

Jesus' ascension calls all believers, especially children, to grow in faith, unity, and service, celebrating their unique differences while embodying God's love and grace.

Sisters from the Sacred Heart of Jesus Convent

HOLY KIDS! Gospel Stories: The Ascension

Jesus assures us of his eternal presence and invites us to engage in heartfelt prayer, which transforms and blesses our lives.

Big Al & Father Joe

Mark 10 MissionSongs

Catechism of the Catholic Church

Luke 24: 50-53

Jesus' ascension signifies the completion of his earthly mission and empowers his disciples to spread the message of forgiveness and faith, while they await the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem.

What is the Ascension of Jesus? Why is it important?

Jesus' ascension represents his divine presence in heaven and the promise of his return, while the Holy Spirit serves as God's guiding presence on earth for believers.

Ascension of Jesus Christ

Ascension of Jesus

Jesus’ Ascension

Jesus Promised the Holy Spirit

Acts 15:1-35

The Jerusalem Council

Resources for Catholic Educators

S.D.C. is a Catholic Society that works in the field of Catechesis and the spreading of the Word of God in different ways. READ MORE

SOURCE: SDC Sunday Liturgy Resources

SOURCE: Mark 10 Mission Files

SOURCE: Catholic Kids Bulletin

Enjoy Catholic coloring pages, lesson plans, Mass worksheets, puzzles, and more to help you prepare for Sunday Mass. These activities, prepared by the Catholic Mom Sunday Gospel Team, are free for you to print and share with your family, classroom, or parish.

SOURCE: Catholic Mom

Young Catholics

Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as a supportive advocate, encouraging a deeper connection through prayer that strengthens our love for God and family.

Spiritual Guidance and Protection

Experiencing the Holy Spirit

Deepening Faith

Catholic Kids Bulletin

SOURCE: Catholic Kids Bulletin

Dollar Store Sermon

Dollar Store Children Sermons - May 29th, 2022 - 7th Sunday of Easter - RCL

The Dollar Store Children's Sermons illustrate the theme of unity in Christ through everyday items, emphasizing that despite our doubts and imperfections, we are all interconnected as part of God's promise.

Sermons 4 Kids

Up, Up and Away!

Sermon Writer

The Church’s Job

What Goes Before

Homeschool Resources Sunday Readings

Homeschool Resources Sunday Readings

Comments

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Like this:

4 thoughts on “CHILDREN – Ascension C”

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Prayer Table
Symbols

Sisters from the Sacred Heart
of Jesus Convent

Mark 10 Mission
Songs

Catechism
of the Catholic Church

Resources for Catholic
Educators