Activities and Prayers for the Papal Transition
Help your students learn about Church leadership.
Leading—Jesus’ Style
The Holy Spirit enables the pope and bishops to govern the people of God in a spirit of loving service. Read the following Scripture passages: Luke 14:11, John 13:12–16, Matthew 15:36, Matthew 28:19, Mark 6:12, Mark 8:35, and Mark 14:22–25. Note the ways Church leaders can give service and example as Jesus did.
Papal Conclave
Watch the following videos about the papal conclave and how a pope is elected. Invite young people to share what they learn with each other. (Each video will automatically play in order, or navigate the playlist with the menu at the top right of the video player.)
Much-Loved Leaders
Welcome the children’s comments about why the pope is loved as a Church leader. Ask the children to think of someone they know in their own lives who has been a special leader to them. Invite children to think of some ways this person has made them a better person. Is he or she a caring person? Warm and loving? How does he or she encourage them to do their best? Invite children to share their thoughts on the qualities that make good leaders. Conclude by reminding the children how lucky we are that God has given us strong leaders in our individual lives and in our Church. Pray together a brief prayer of thanks to God for all of our good Church leaders.
More Church Leadership Activities
The Chair of Saint Peter the Apostle