This half term, we will be ofcusing on Special Places in our RE learning. For many people, some places in the world are special. For others the whole world is special. We all feel a need to look after what is special to us. Sometimes it is easy to explain why things are special. At other times it might be difficult to put into words why something is special.
Christians believe that the diversity of the world and its people is God’s gift. Jesus in his life and gospel, challenges people to appreciate diversity and to create with it a harmony that reflects the unity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This is reflected in the work of CAFOD.
Catechism of the Catholic Church
“God created the world to show forth and communicate his glory: that his creatures should share in his truth, goodness and beauty – this is the glory for which God created them.” (CCC319)
“The Church is the people that God gathers in the whole world.” (CCC752)
Word of God
“See, the body is one, even if formed by many members, but not all of them with the same function. The same with us; being many, we are one body in Christ, depending on one another. Let each one of us, therefore, serve according to our different gifts. Do you have prophecy? Let the deacon fulfil his office; let the teacher teach, the one who encourages, convince. You must, likewise, give with an open hand, preside with dedication, and be cheerful in your works of charity. Let love be sincere. Hate what is evil and hold to whatever is good. Regarding brotherly love, have love for one another. Regarding respect, judge others as more worthy. Regarding your duties, do not be lazy.
Be fervent in the Spirit and serve God.” (Romans 12:4-11)
Prayer and Reflection
Creator God,
in your hands you hold the depths of the earth
and the heights of the mountains,
for all creation belongs to you.
Grant us grace to cherish your world
and wisdom to nurture its resources.
Save us from the desire to control what is not ours
and the impulse to possess what is not ours
and the impulse to possess what is there to share.
Amen.
(Annabel Shilson-Thomas/CAFOD)