This week, the Level II children will listen to and reflect on an extension of the Parable of the Good Shepherd which they received in the Level I atrium.  The children are already familiar with the nurture and protection of the Good Shepherd.  Now through the extension, they contemplate just how deep this loving care extends.

Back in early November, Level II received a presentation on the parable of the Found Sheep, which is another extension of the Good Shepherd parable.  This should have helped the children connect their Level II learning with their Level I experiences. As they listen this week, we will see if any of them remember the Found Sheep and bring that parable into this week's reflection in some way.  Then, the next time we meet in the Atrium (May 4/5/6), the children will be presented with the parable of the Found Coin.  Through such overlay and repetition of themes, we hope to provide children the opportunity to continue to work with this central parable and meet the Good Shepherd more and more intimately.

Adding to the strength of this proclamation will be the Gospel this coming Sunday (4/25) from John 10:27-30, which says:

   Jesus said:
  "My sheep hear my voice;
  I know them, and they follow me.
  I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.
  No one can take them out of my hand.
  My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all,
  and no one can take them out of the Father's hand.
  The Father and I are one."