✦ PREPARING THE TABLE

• One candle placed at the center of the table — lit at the opening of the gathering

• A crucifix, the Holy Bible, and an image of Our Lady placed on or near the table

• Food prepared and set — the meal is part of the celebration

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✦ ORDER OF THE GATHERING

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I. Opening Song & Lighting of the Candle

The head of the family or a chosen member lights the candle as the family gathers around the table.

Suggested: "Hail Redeemer, King Divine" · "Alleluia, Sing to Jesus" · or any familiar Ascension or Easter hymn

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II. Opening Prayer by the Head of the Family

The father or mother leads the family in prayer, invoking the Holy Spirit and giving thanks for the gift of gathering together on this solemn feast.

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“Lord Jesus, You have ascended in glory to the Father.
Bless our family gathered here at this table.
May our home be a little church,
and our meal a foretaste of Your heavenly banquet. Amen."

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III. Reading of the Word & Short Catechetical Reflection

A family member proclaims the Gospel of the day. A brief reflection is shared, followed by questions to invite family sharing.

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Gospel of the Day — Luke 24:46–53
Jesus said to his disciples: "Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day… and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations…" Then he led them out as far as Bethany, raised his hands, and blessed them. As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven.

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Points for Sharing:

• What does it mean that Jesus "ascended" — where did He go? Is He still with us?

• The disciples returned to Jerusalem "with great joy." What gives our family great joy in our faith?

• Jesus blessed them before leaving. How do we bless one another in our daily life at home?

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IV. Blessing of the Food

The head of the family prays over the meal, asking God's blessing upon the food and upon all who share in it.

"Bless us, O Lord, and these Thy gifts,
which we are about to receive from Thy bounty,
through Christ our Lord. Amen."

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V. Dinner / Lunch & Sharing

The family shares the meal together. Conversation flows freely — stories, laughter, and the sharing prompted by the reflection. No screens. Only presence.

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VI. Thanksgiving

After the meal, the family pauses together. Each member is invited to name one thing they are grateful to God for — from the past week, the past year, or simply today.

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VII. Petitions

Each member freely offers their intentions aloud — for themselves, for others, for the Church and the world. After each petition, the family may respond: "Lord, hear our prayer."

 

VIII Pater Noster

The gathering closes as the family joins hands and prays the Our Father together — the prayer Jesus Himself taught us.

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be Thy name;
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil. Amen.

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