World Youth Day USA Guides Retreat Manual | Page 45

Krakow, saying “Mercy does not just imply INDIVIDUAL REFLECTION TIME being a ‘good person’ nor is it mere NOTE TO LEADER: Take 15 to 25 minutes to sentimentality. It is the measure of our allow the participants to reflect on the catechesis. The authenticity as disciples of Jesus, and of our following are questions for personal reflection: credibility as Christians in today’s world.” Jesus’ mercy for us – reflections to consider:  Where do we encounter Jesus’ mercy?  Where do we see it in our lives?  Where do we notice forgiveness?  Where do we notice Jesus relieving us from  Why did Jesus preach so much on mercy?  What’s the alternative to mercy that I am called to avoid?  who is merciful?  our burdens, struggles, or pains?  Where have we experienced God’s mercy?  How has that mercy appeared in our lives? What strikes me about the person of Jesus, Where am I experiencing or have I experienced Jesus’ mercy in my life?  What does this experience of receiving mercy help me know about my relationship with Jesus? How can we help others encounter God’s  mercy? By being merciful to others!   Where in my life am I in need of Jesus’ mercy and healing today? Receiving mercy compels us to show mercy to one another. SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION TIME It is through our experiencing of NOTE TO LEADER: Take approximately 20 to receiving Jesus’ mercy (in many ways, 30 minutes to allow participants to join together in but especially through the Sacrament of discussion; use the questions from individual reflection Reconciliation) that we are strengthened time to guide the conversation in the small groups. in our understanding and experience of God’s love for us. This gift prepares us to share God’s love with others. 43