walking with purpose 4.21 Touching the Divine Second Edition User Guide

: June 13, 2024
: walking with purpose

Table of Contents

References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

walking with purpose 4.21 Touching the Divine Second Edition User Guide

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 1, Connect Coffee Talk 1: INTIMACY AND IDENTITY

LEADER PRAY

On your own, prior to the start of the meeting. Here is a suggestion: Come Holy Spirit. Be present withus during our meetings. Through this study, lead each woman to a true conversion of heart, a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, and a love for His Church. Guide me as I facilitate this discussion, andtake away any fears or anxieties I may have. Help me to fully rely on You where I am weak. Soften myheart to be open to the hurt any of these women may share and recognize that it is through Your mercy and grace that they will be healed. Jesus, in your name I pray. Amen.

Leader NOTE: Consider printing a few copies of the CC Guest Outline in advance to have available for any guests

SMALL GROUP WELCOME

Leader GREET: Each woman by name and introduce yourself briefly (name, family information)

Leader SHARE
What to expect of today’s session

Icebreaker and introductions
WWP Small Group Honor Code
My commitment as your leader
Guided tour of your Touching the Divine (Second Edition) study guide
Discussion of Lesson 1, Connect Coffee Talk 1: Intimacy and Identity
At-home work for next session
Prayer Intentio

ICEBREAKER & INTRODUCTIONS

Leader SHARE
“We’re going to spend five minutes getting to know each other a little better! I’ll go first and then we’ll go around the table and take turns sharing your name and answering the following question: ‘What’s one thing you like about yourself?’”

Leader NOTE
Additional icebreakers can be found in the Small Group Leader Workbook. Please keep in mind that some icebreakers are not suitable for a first meeting. Remember to choose one that will make everyone comfortable.

EXPLANATION OF HONOR CODE AND COMMITMENT AS LEADER”‘

Leader READ :Read through the WWP Small Group Honor Cod

Leader SHARE As a Leader I commit to the following:

Start and end meeting on time
Not to “call on” anyone to answer questions
Encourage women to come and discuss even if a lesson isn’t complete (share suggestions of how to complete coursework)

STUDY GUIDE TOUR

Leader EXPLAIN

Table of Contents

Part 1: Lessons

Connect Coffee Talks (Lessons 1, 5, 10, 14, 18, 22)
We’ll watch the Connect Coffee Talks and discuss during our meeting time.
Lessons (all others): Day 1–5 format
Verse Study

Part 2: Appendices 1–6
Part 3: Answer Key—complete the questions on your own first
Prayer Pages: Touching the Divine prayer and Prayer Requests pages

DISCUSSION TIME: LESSON 1, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 1: INTIMACY AND IDENTITY

Leader BEGIN Discussion time by praying the Honor Code prayer or another short opening prayer
Leader SHARE “In this lesson we’ll discuss the first Connect Coffee Talk of Touching the Divine (Second Edition), Intimacy and Identity. Let’s start by taking a look at question two in our study guides.”

Leader ASK Q 2: “Have you been confused by any of the identity lies described by Henri Nouwen? (I am what I have. I am what I do. I am what others think of me.)” Leader SAY “Who is willing to get us started by sharing your thoughts? Did any one of those lies resonate with you?”
Leader NOTE Don’t be afraid of a little silence after you first ask this question. Be prepared to share your insights if needed. If a participant shares, thank her with a warm comment and smile to help participants who are hesitant to realize that sharing is enriching and not intimidating.
Leader ASK Q1 & Q3
“What else from the talk stood out to you?”

AT-HOME WORK FOR NEXT SESSION ;’

Leader ASK Women to complete Lesson 2: Jesus, the Word of God. Encourage them to dedicate 15 minutes each day (5 days of the week) to work on the lesson.
Leader REMIND Everyone of the day and time of the next session

PRAYER INTENTIONS
Leader EXPLAIN
Part of the small group experience is praying specifically for one another throughout the week. We’llexperience Christ in a personal way when we ask Him for help with our specific needs. While we often think first of the needs of the world and people we care about, WWP encourages the use of this time to specifically ask for prayers for ourselves. For example, you may request prayers for patience,for a relationship that needs mending, self-discipline to manage time, etc.”

“Prayer intentions are treated with respect and confidentiality. The time is not intended for delving intodetails that may lead to gossip. When sharing an intention about a struggle with another person, all efforts should be made to keep it general and anonymous.”

Leader ASK Women to take turns sharing their prayer intention. Others can write down prayer requests on the Prayer Pages found in the back of their study guides.

Leader LEAD By example with your own prayer intention

Leader PRAY Aloud for each woman by name, trying to include what was shared. Close by praying a personalprayer, the Touching the Divine prayer (found in the back of the study guide at the beginning of the Prayer Pages), or a Hail Mary for the intentions.

Review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook. Give thanks to the Lord and pray that the participants are able to carve out time to complete their lesson this week

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 2: JESUS, THE WORD OF GOD
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting. Here is a suggestion: Come Holy Spirit. Be present with us during our meetings. Through this study, lead each woman to a true conversion of heart, a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, and a love for His Church. Guide me as I facilitate this discussion, andtake away any fears or anxieties I may have. Help me to fully rely on You where I am weak. Soften myheart to be open to the hurt any of these women may share and recognize that it is through Yourmercy and grace that they will be healed. Jesus, in your name I pray. Amen.

Leader NOTE Icebreaker suggestions are found in the Small Group Leader Workbook; allow 5 minutes for icebreaker

INTRODUCTION
Leader SAY We are going to follow Julie Andrews’ advice and start at the very beginning—of this Bible Study
and creation.

Leader READ From the middle of the second paragraph that begins, “His [John’s] introduction of Jesus takes us back in time to creation and to before creation,” through to the end of the third paragraph.

Volunteer READ The last two sentences of the intro
Leader SAY “ Let’s take a look at Day One: The Prologue.”

DAY ONE THE PROLOGUE
Leader ASK Q1 A & B.
Group SHARE Responses to Q1 C.
Leader ASK Q2 A & B.
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 C.
Leader ASK Q3 A, B, & C

Leader SAY As it’s written in the Quiet Your Heart (QYH), “In my experience God usually lights the pathdirectly in front of me, step by step, but He doesn’t show me very far ahead. If He did, I could walk by sight instead of walking by faith. But ‘without faith, it’s impossible to please him’ (Hebrews 11:6).

DAY TWO THE WORD BECAME FLESH
Leader ASK Q1, Q2 A & B
Leader NOTE Point out Appendix 4: Conversion of Heart
Group DISCU SS Q2 C
Leader NOTE John 1:14 is the VERSE STUDY at the end of the lesson
Leader ASK Q3 A & B and Q4 A & B
Group SHARE Responses to Q4 C
Volunteer READ QYH 2nd Paragraph from “When Jesus came…”

DAY THREE JOHN THE BAPTIST’S TESTIMONY
Leader ASK Q1 A & B, Q2, & Q3

Leader NOTE The prayer at the end of Day Three would make a beautiful closing prayer at the end of your meeting

DAY FOUR THE FIRST DISCIPLES
Leader SAY “ Ladies, take a minute to reflect on your answer to question 1.”
Leader READ Paragraph after Q1
Leader ASK Q2
Volunteer READ 2nd paragraph of Q3
Group DISCUSS Responses to Q3
Volunteer READ From the QYH, the verses from Isaiah 43:1–4

DAY FIVE THE CALLING OF NATHANAEL
Group SHARE Responses to Q1
Leader ASK Q2 A, B, & C

CONCLUSION
Leader SUM UP “The Lamb of God came for the sole purpose of rescuing us.”
VERSE STUDY
Leader REMIND Walk participants through steps and refer them to the appendix for instructions

RESOLUTIONS & PRAYER REQUESTS
Description of RESOLUTIONS in study guide and the impact that they can have on our spiritual growth. Resolutions provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned to our daily lives. Encourage participants to select a resolutionor create their own to commit to. Remind participants that PRAYER REQUEST time is an opportunity for women to share personal intentions with each other and commit to praying for each other throughout the week. As a CLOSING PRAYER, youcan\use the prayer at the end of Day 3 OR the Touching the Divine prayer found at the beginning of the Prayer Pages.

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 3: JESUS, OUR SOURCE OF FULFILLMENT
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting. Here is a suggestion: Come Holy Spirit. Be present with us during our meetings. Through this study, lead each woman to a true conversion of heart, a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, and a love for His Church. Guide me as I facilitate this discussion, and take away any fears or anxieties I may have. Help me to fully rely on You where I am weak. Soften myheart to be open to the hurt any of these women may share and recognize that it is through Your mercy and grace that they will be healed. Jesus, in your name I pray. Amen.b

Leader NOTE Icebreaker suggestions are found in the Small Group Leader Workbook; allow 5 minutes for
icebreaker

INTRODUCTION
Leader SAY We read about Lisa’s experience running out of gas in Germany. Let’s begin this week’s lesson by noting the questions Lisa poses to us toward the end of the introduction: “Are you running on empty?…”

Leader SAY “ Today we will discuss Christ as our true source of fulfillment.”
Leader ASK Volunteer to read the last two paragraphs of the introduction that begin with, “In our fast-paced
culture…”

DAY ONE THE WEDDING AT CANA
Leader READ First 3 sentences in first paragraph and second paragraph beginning with, “A weeklong
celebration…”

Leader ASK Q1 A
Group DISCUSS Responses to Q1 B & C
Leader ASK Q 2–5 quickly (factual)
Group SHARE Responses to Q 6
Leader ASK For reflections on QYH section: “What stood out to you? What resonated with you?”

DAY TWO THE CLEANSING OF THE TEMPLE
Leader ASK Q1 A, B & C
Leader ASK Q 2, 3A, & 3B (all factual)
Group SHARE Responses to Q 3C
Leader READ QYH aloud, inviting participants to underline those phrases that speak to them personally.C

DAY THREE JESUS AND NICODEMUS
CDCCCCC “As I read John 3:1–15, I invite you to close your eyes and place yourself in the middle of thisstory. Imagine what was going through Nicodemus’ mind.” Read John 3:1–15.
Group SHARE Responses to Q1A & 1B
Leader ASK Q 2 A, B, & C (factual)
Leader READ Q 3 aloud, then ask for volunteers willing to share their “before and after” testimony.
Leader ASK Q 4 & 5

DAY FOUR GOD’S LOVE FOR THE WORLD
Leader NOTE John 3:16 is the VERSE STUDY at the end of the lesson
Leader ASK Q 1 A,B, & C (factual)
Leader ASK Volunteer to read John 3:17 and 2 Peter 3:9, referring to Q2
Leader ASK Q2, Q3, then ASK for a volunteer to read paragraph following Q3unteer READ Last paragraph of QYH beginning with “Jesus was preparing…”C

Group SHARE Responses to Q4
Leader ASK If anyone relates to the belief noted in QYH that we must be “cleaned up” to be loved by God. Leave some time for discussion.

DAY FIVE JESUS ABOVE ALL
Leader READ Q1, both paragraphs. Then ASK “How can John the Baptist’s example help us to grow in contentment?”
Leader ASK Q2, Q3 A & B, and Q4 A
Leader READ Q4B
Group SHARE Responses Q4B, allow extra time for discussion
Leader NOTE QYH prayer would make a great closing prayer at the end of your meeting

CONCLUSION
Leader ASK “Based on this week’s lesson, how do the verses, ‘Do whatever he tells you’ (John 2:5) and ‘He must increase, but I must decrease’ (John 3:30), impact you? What resonated with you from the Conclusion?”

VERSE STUDY
Leader REMIND Participants to refer to the appendix for a reminder on how to do a verse study

RESOLUTIONS & PRAYER REQUESTS
Resolutions provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned to our daily lives. Encourage participants to select a resolution or create their own to commit to. Remind participants that PRAYER REQUEST time is an opportunity for women toshare personal intentions with each other and commit to praying for each other throughout the week. As a CLOSING PRAYER, you can use the prayer at the end of Day 5 OR the Touching the Divine prayer found at the beginning of thePrayer Pages

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 4: JESUS, THE LIVING WATER
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting. Here is a suggestion: Come Holy Spirit. Be present withus during our meetings. Through this study, lead each woman to a true conversion of heart, a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, and a love for His Church. Guide me as I facilitate this discussion, andtake away any fears or anxieties I may have. Help me to fully rely on You where I am weak. Soften my heart to be open to the hurt any of these women may share and recognize that it is through Your mercy and grace that they will be healed. Jesus, in your name I pray. Amen.

Leader NOTE Icebreaker suggestions are found in the Small Group Leader Workbook; allow 5 minutes for
icebreaker

INTRODUCTION
Leader SAY This week we will be discussing Christ as our living water. ASK for a volunteer to READ the last
paragraph of the introduction. ZINTRODUCTION
Leader SAY This week we will be discussing Christ as our living water. ASK for a volunteer to READ the last
paragraph of the introduction.

DAY ONE A DIVINE APPOINTMENT
Leader ASK Q1 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q1 B
Leader ASK Q3 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 B
Leader SAY “We all have deep hurts and wounds that require Jesus’ tender healing.” Then READ last paragraph
of QYH.

DAY FIVE THE HEALING OF AN OFFICIAL’S SON
Leader ASK Q1 & Q2
Group SHARE Responses to Q3

CONCLUSION
Leader ASK For women’s thoughts about the conclusion. When discussing the last two paragraphs, invite the
participants to pray about 1 or 2 friends who they could invite to Walking

VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

RESOLUTIONS & PRAYER REQUESTS
Resolutions provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned to our daily lives. Encourage participantsto select a resolution or create their own to commit to. Remind participants that PRAYER REQUEST time is anopportunity for women to share personal intentions with each other and commit to praying for each other throughout the week.Incorporate the QYH section from Day 4 into CLOSING PRAYER or pray the Touching the Divine prayer together. Remind the participants that the next session is a Connect Coffee, the perfect opportunity to invite a friend tomeet new women over coffee, watch an inspirational video, and join in on an engaging discussion!

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook.

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 5, Connect Coffee Talk 2: JESUS, THE LIVING WATER

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting. Here is a suggestion: Come Holy Spirit. Be present with us during our meetings. Through this study, lead each woman to a true conversion of heart, a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, and a love for His Church. Guide me as I facilitate this discussion, andtake away any fears or anxieties I may have. Help me to fully rely on You where I am weak. Soften my heart to be open to the hurt any of these women may share and recognize that it is through Your mercy and grace that they will be healed. Jesus, in your name I pray. Amen.

Leader NOTE Consider printing a few copies of the CC Guest Outline in advance to have available for any guests

VIEW LESSON 5, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 2: JESUS, THE LIVING WATER

Leader ASK Women to open their study guides to Lesson 5, Connect Coffee Talk 2: Jesus, the Living Water.
Leader PLAY: Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Connect Coffee Talk 2, which is accessible via free online streaming from the WWP website or YouTube, purchased download, or purchased DVD. Participants can follow the outline in their guides

Refer to the Small Group Leader Workbook for icebreaker suggestions and review honor code before opening in prayer

DISCUSSION TIME: LESSON 5, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 2: JESUS, THE LIVING WATER

ader BEGIN By offering an Opening Prayer
Leader SAY “In this lesson we’ll discuss Jesus as the Living Water. The guiding verse is ‘Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring ofwater welling up to eternal life’ (John 4:14). I want to begin by asking if there was anything that resonated or stood out to you from the video?” Allow time for women to share.

Leader SAY Let’s go to the Discussion Questions: Q1, Q2, and Q3

AT-HOME WORK FOR NEXT SESSION

Leader ASK Women to do Lesson 6: Jesus, the Authority. Encourage them to dedicate 15 minutes each day (5 days of the week) to work on the lesson.

Leader REMIND Everyone of the day and time of the next session.

PRAYER INTENTIONS

Leader EXPLAIN “Part of the small group experience is praying specifically for one another throughout the week. We’llexperience Christ in a personal way when we ask Him for help with our specific needs. While we often think first of the needs of the world and people we care about, WWP encourages the use of thistime to specifically ask for prayers for ourselves. For example, you may ask for prayers for patience, for a relationship that needs mending, self-discipline to manage time, etc.” “

Prayer intentions are treated with respect and confidentiality. The time is not intended for delving into details that may lead to gossip. When sharing an intention about a struggle with another person, all efforts should be made to keep it general and anonymous.”

Leader ASK Women to take turns sharing their prayer intention. Others can write down prayer requests on the
Prayer Pages found in the back of their study guides.

Leader LEAD By example with your own prayer intention

Leader PRAY Aloud for each woman by name, trying to include what was shared. Close by praying a personal prayer, the Touching the Divine prayer, or a Hail Mary for the intentions.

Review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook. Give thanks to the Lord and pray that the participants are able to carve out time to complete their lesson this week

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 6: JESUS, THE AUTHORITY
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

INTRODUCTION
Leader SUMMARIZE The key points from the introduction, noting the last two paragraphs.
Leader SAY “ As we dive into our discussion of John, chapter 5, let’s keep in our minds the question Jesus poses today: ‘Do you want to get well?’”

DAY ONE THE POOL OF BETHZATHA
Leader ASK Q1 & Q2 A
Leader NOTE Q2 B is personal, invite participants to share only if they feel comfortable doing so
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A, B & C
Volunteer READ QYH section

DAY TWO DO YOU WANT TO BE HEALED?

Leader ASK Q1 A, B, & C and Q2A quickly
Leader NOTE Q2 B is personal and participants can share if they feel comfortable doing so
Group SHARE Responses to Q2C, look at all three verses as a whole, asking for insights
Volunteer READ QYH section

DAY THREE HEALING ON THE SABBATH

Leader ASK Q1 A, B, & C quickly, then ASK for their thoughts about the paragraph following Q1 C
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 & Q3
Leader ASK Q4 A & B
Leader ASK For personal insights from QYH

DAY FOUR THE RIGHT TO JUDGE

Leader NOTE For a change of pace, consider asking for a few volunteers to ask the questions on this DAY.
Volunteers ASK Q1, Q2 A & B, and Q3 A & B (quickly)
Group SHARE Responses to Q4
Leader ASK Q5
Volunteer SHARE Main points from QYH
Leader NOTE The last few lines of QYH could be used as a closing prayer, starting with: “Oh, Spirit of love…”

DAY FIVE THE TESTIMONY TO JESUS

Leader ASK Q1, Q2, & Q3 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 B
Volunteer READ QYH section

CONCLUSION

Group SHARE Insights from conclusion
Leader READ (from near the beginning of the second paragraph) “…the key to experiencing that kind of life [a fulfilling, healthy life of wholeness and purpose] is listening attentively to Jesus in prayer and walking the road of obedience to His will”; and quote from Saint Therese of Lisieux.

VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

RESOLUTIONS & PRAYER REQUESTS:
Resolutions provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned to our daily lives. Encourage participants to select aresolution or create their own to commit to. Complete PRAYER INTENTIONS. For CLOSING PRAYER, you can choose the last few lines from Day 4 QYH or pray the Touching the Divine prayer together. Review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook.

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 7: JESUS, THE EUCHARIST
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting

INTRODUCTION
Leader SAY “Can anyone relate to Lisa’s experience of Mass—the homily is wandering, the music is outdated or too slow, it’s difficult to pay attention because the kids are too distracting, and readings that don’t resonate?” Allow time for women to share

Leader SAY “ This lesson will focus on the gift of the Eucharist to fill, satisfy, and strengthen us. Let’s ask the Lord to awaken our hearts to this precious gift, this gift that is real, that it is Jesus Christ.”

DAY ONE FEEDING THE FIVE THOUSAND

Volunteer READ Paragraph before Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q1
Leader ASK Q2 A, B, & C
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 D
Leader ASK Q3
Leader ASK Insights from QYH
Leader NOTE QYH second paragraph can be turned into a beautiful closing prayer, beginning, “Lord, satisfy me…”

DAY TWO JESUS WALKS ON THE WATER

Leader ASK Q1 A & B
Volunteer ASK Read and answer Q2
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A, B, & C
Leader ASK Q4 A & B
Group DISCUSS Responses to Q4 C
Volunteer READ QYH section

DAY THREE THE BREAD FROM HEAVEN

Leader ASK Q1
Group DISCUSS Responses to Q2 A & B
Leader ASK Q2 C, D, & Q3
Leader READ Father Jacques Philippe’s quote in QYH, “Like the manna that fed the Hebrew people…”. Ask group to share any personal insights

DAY FOUR THE REAL PRESENCE

Leader NOTE Be fearlessly positive by encouraging participants to memorize key verses in these passages
(John 6:52–59) to “know why we believe so we can help others find real fulfillment in Christ.”
Leader ASK Q1A, B, C, Q2, & Q3
Group DISCUSS Paragraph following Q3
Volunteer ASK Q4
Volunteer READ QYH sectio

DAY FIVE THE WORDS OF ETERNAL LIFE

Leader ASK Q1, Q2 A & B
Volunteer READ Paragraph following Q2 B
Leader NOTE Q2 C is a personal question, so invite participants to share only if they feel comfortable doing so
Leader ASK Q3
Leader NOTE The prayer in QYH, written by Saint Teresa of Calcutta, can be used as a closing prayer

CONCLUSION
Leader ASK “What did the Lord reveal to you through this lesson on Jesus, the Eucharist?” Allow extra time for group sharing
VERSE STUDY Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 8: JESUS, OUR MODEL OF FIDELITY
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

INTRODUCTION
Leader SAY “Do you know someone like Anastasia? Someone who oozes kindness and patience, who chooses tosee the good? Let’s see how Jesus remained balanced, pleasant, and composed under what we would say is a great deal of pressure.”

DAY ONE THE UNBELIEF OF JESUS’ BRETHREN

Leader ASK Q1
Volunteer READ All of Q2, noting the Water Pouring Ceremony and Festival of Lights
Leader ASK Q3 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 B
Leader NOTE Encourage participants to reflect on QYH, asking God to reveal how He wants us to spend our time

DAY TWO JESUS AT THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES

Leader ASK Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 & Q3, commentary from The Better Part, and Q4 & 5
Leader NOTE In QYH section, suggest underlining, “The disposition of our will determines our capacity to recognize the truth.”
Leader READ QYH section, starting with, “Ask God to reveal to you the true disposition of your will…”. ASK for personal insights

DAY THREE IS THIS THE CHRIST?

Leader ASK Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 (note answer key for additional reference)
Leader ASK Q3 & Q4
Leader ASK Personal insights from QYH

DAY FOUR RIVERS OF LIVING WATER

Group DISCUSS The four paragraphs before Q1 ( summarize if needed)
Leader ASK Q1
Volunteer READ Paragraph at Q2
Leader ASK Q2 A & B
Volunteer READ paragraphs at Q3
Group SHARE Responses to Q3
Volunteer READ QYH section

DAY FIVE DIVISION AMONG THE PEOPLE

Group SHARE Responses to Q1, Q2, Q3, & Q4
Leader ASK “What resonates with you from the QYH section?“ Allow extra time for discussion

CONCLUSION

Leader ASK “What can we glean from this lesson on Jesus, Our Model of Fidelity?”
Volunteer READ Last two paragraphs of Conclusion starting with, “The Holy Spirit fills us with all we need…”

VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 9: JESUS, THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

INTRODUCTION
Volunteer ASK Read the last 3 paragraphs of the introduction
Leader SAY “ Let’s dive into Day One.”

DAY ONE JESUS AT THE MOUNT OF OLIVES

Leader SHARE Place yourself in the scene of John 8: 1–11, use the paragraph above Q1 as an additional guide
Leader ASK Q1 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q1 B
Leader ASK For insights from Q2
Leader NOTE The last three lines from Q2 could be turned into an additional resolution choice
Volunteer READ Q3 and share insights
Leader ASK Volunteers share reflections on QYH section. “What stood out to you?”

DAY TWO THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Group SHARE Insights from commentary from The Better Part
Leader ASK Q1 A, one response for each verse
Group SHARE Responses to Q1 B
Leader NOTE See Answer Key for examples to Q1 B if needed, and/or be prepared to share to further illustrate responses. Encourage participants to write prayer in Q2 on their own time if they haven’t already
Leader READ QYH section

DAY THREE I AM

Leader NOTE Q1 begins on page 112 and is continued on page 113
Group SHARE Responses to Q1, all parts
Leader ASK Q2, ask for volunteers to read Matthew 27:45–54 and John 8:28
Group SHARE Responses to Q3
Leader READ First sentence of QYH, beginning with, “Take a moment to contemplate the fact…”

DAY FOUR TRUE FREEDOM

Leader READ Paragraph preceding Q1
Leader ASK Q1 & Q2, with volunteers reading cited verses aloud
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 and Q4 A, B, & C, allowing extra time for discussion surrounding
Ephesians 6:12–18
(the Armor of God)
Leader NOTE The QYH section can be used as closing prayer. Invite a volunteer to use this for closing prayer

DAY FIVE JESUS AND ABRAHAM

Leader READ Paragraph at Q1
Leader ASK Q1 & Q2 , referring to the answer key for insights as needed
Group SHARE Responses to Q3
Volunteer READ Paragraph following Q3
Leader SHARE From the QYH section, point to the truths we can meditate on to counter the lies from the devil

CONCLUSION

Leader ASK “What insights would you like to share about Jesus, the Light of the World from this lesson?”
VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

RESOLUTIONS & PRAYER REQUESTS
RESOLUTIONS provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned to our daily lives. Encourageparticipants to select a resolution or create their own to commit to. Complete PRAYER INTENTIONS . For CLOSING PRAYER, you can choose the prayer from Day 4 QYH or pray the Touching the Divine prayer together. Remind the participants that the next session is a Connect Coffee, the perfect opportunity to invite a friend tomeet new women over coffee, watch an inspirational video, and join in on an engaging discussion!

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

ouching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 10, Connect Coffee Talk 3: JESUS, THE LIGHT OF
THE WORLD

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

Leader NOTE Consider printing a few copies of the CC Guest Outline in advance to have available for any guests

I EW LESSON 10, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 3: JESUS, THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Leader ASK Women to open their study guides to Lesson 10, Connect Coffee Talk 3: Jesus, the Light of the World

Leader PLAY Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Connect Coffee Talk 3, which is accessible via free online
streaming from the WWP website or YouTube, purchased download, or purchased DVD. Participants
can follow the outline in their guides.

Refer to the Small Group Leader Workbook for icebreaker suggestions and review honor code before opening in prayer

DISCUSSION TIME: LESSON 10, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 3: JESUS, THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Leader BEGIN By offering an Opening Prayer
Leader SAY “In this lesson we’ll discuss Jesus as the Light of the World. Let’s take a look at the discussion questions.”
Leader ASK Q1, Q2, & Q3
“What else from the Talk stood out to you?”

AT-HOME WORK FOR NEXT SESSION

Leader ASK Women to do Lesson 11: Jesus, the Consoler and Shepherd. Encourage them to dedicate 15minutes each day (5 days of the week) to work on the lesson.
Leader REMIND Everyone of the day and time of the next session

PRAYER INTENTIONS

Leader ASK Women to take turns sharing their prayer intention. Others can write down prayer requests on the\Prayer Pages found in the back of their study guides.
Leader LEAD By example with your own prayer intention
Leader PRAY Aloud for each woman by name, trying to include what was shared. Close by praying a personal prayer, the Touching the Divine prayer, or a Hail Mary for the intentions.

Review self-assessment found in your WWP small group leader workbook. Give thanks to the Lord and pray that the participants are able to carve out time to complete their lesson this week.

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 11: JESUS, THE CONSOLER AND SHEPHERD
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

DAY ONE HEALING OF THE BLIND MAN

Volunteer READ Paragraph at Q1
Leader ASK Q1 A, using Job 31:3, Psalm 107:17, and Tobit 3:3 for insight
Leader READ Paragraph at Q1 B and ask Q1 B
Leader ASK Q2 A, B, & Q3
Group SHARE Responses to Q4
Volunteer READ From QYH, 2 Corinthians 4: 7–9

DAY TWO INVESTIGATING THE HEALING

Leader ASK Q1, all parts. Allow extra time for group sharing in C & D
Leader ASK Q 2, 3, & 4
Leader SAY “What do we learn about suffering from QYH?” Allow time for discussion, noting, “Jesus doesn’t offer a fix—He offers us Himself.”

DAY THREE THE GOOD SHEPHERD

Leader SAY “What insights do we learn about sheep and the shepherd from this first paragraph?”
Leader ASK Q1
Volunteer ASK Q2
Leader ASK Q 3 & 4, all parts
Volunteer READ The second half of QYH from, “Before heartache can ever touch your life…”

DAY FOUR THE FEAST OF DEDICATION

Leader ASK Q1 & 2
Group SHARE Responses to Q3, allowing time to encourage those who feel they don’t hear Him, and review noted
Scripture passages
Leader ASK Q4
Volunteer READ QYH

DAY FIVE REJECTED BY THE JEWS

Leader ASK Q1, Q2, Q3, & Q4
Leader NOTE If time allows, read some of the noted Scripture verses aloud and CCC 548
Leader NOTE Highlight the questions for personal reflection in the QYH section

CONCLUSION

Leader ASK “What resonated with you from the Conclusion? What does it mean to you that Jesus is your Good Shepherd?”
VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

Review self-assessment found in your WWP small group leader workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 12: JESUS, THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

INTRODUCTION /
“Leader SAY “We are going to tread the waters of suffering today. This is a tender space for all of us. We \have all experienced suffering. There is no escape from it in this life. Mary and Martha—amongJesus’ closest friends—experienced suffering. Maybe we can relate to how they reacted, theanguish they felt. Let’s explore this together, keeping in mind we all react differently and we’veall had different experiences. Let’s remember to offer grace to each other today as we explore John 11.”

Leader READ Paragraphs 4 and 5 of the Introduction

DAY ONE THE DEATH OF LAZARUS

Leader ASK Q1, Q2, & Q3
Group SHARE Responses to Q4 & Q5, allowing for time for discussion
Volunteer READ Paragraph following Q5, and read and answer Q6
Leader READ QYH

DAY TWO THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE

Leader ASK Q1 A & B
Leader READ Q2, noting that the answers may be personal; invite women to share only if they feel
comfortable.
Group SHARE Responses to Q3
Volunteer READ 2 paragraphs following Q3
Leader ASK Q4 A & B (factual, quickly), noting 4 C is personal and can be questions women take deeper to prayer with them
Leader READ QYH, inviting women to highlight/underline, “He can handle your emotions.”

DAY THREE JESUS WEEPS

Leader ASK Q1, 2, 3, & 4 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q4 B;
Leader ASK For volunteer to read 2 paragraphs following Q4 B
Leader ASK For personal insights from the words of Francis Schaeffer. “What did you underline/highlight?
What stood out to you from this description of Jesus’ experience?”
Leader READ QYH

DAY FOUR LAZARUS RAISED TO LIFE

Leader ASK Q1 & 2 A
Leader NOTE Q2 B is personal, women do not have to share their answers
Leader ASK Q2 C, asking for volunteers to read each verse and answer, “How do these help us when we are lacking hope?”
Leader ASK Q3 & 4
Leader NOTE Q5 is an important touchpoint to allow time to discuss; leader may need to share ownanswers to help engage discussion
Group SHARE Invite women to share their answers to each of the questions posed in Q5
Leader ASK For personal insights from QYH

DAY FIVE THE PLOT TO PUT JESUS TO DEATH

Leader ASK Q1& Q2 (factual, quickly)
Volunteer READ Q3, read also John 11:50–52
Leader ASK Q4
Leader READ QYH

CONCLUSION

Volunteer READ First 2 paragraphs of conclusion
Leader NOTE Prayer in conclusion could be used for closing prayer
VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

After Lesson: Review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 13: JESUS, THE KING
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Cod

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

INTRODUCTION
Leader READ The last three paragraphs of the Introduction

DAY ONE MARY OF BETHANY

Group SHARE Responses to Q1and Q2
Leader ASK Q3, asking for a volunteer to read aloud Galatians 1:10 and John 12:42–43
Leader ASK Q4 A (factual), quickly
Group SHARE Responses to Q4B; ask for volunteer to read aloud Luke 11:41–42, Matthew 25:40, and CCC
2449
Leader SAY “In the QYH, Lisa poses this question to us: ‘If I give everything to Christ, will I have anything left?’” Follow this question by reading the last 2 paragraphs of the QYH

DAY TWO JESUS’ ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM

Leader READ Introduction to Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q1
Leader ASK Q2
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A, B, & Q4 (allow extra time for Q4 as many may want to respond)
Leader ASK For personal insights from the QYH, specifically if anything resonated from the commentary from The Better Part.

DAY THREE THE ARRIVAL OF THE GREEKS

Leader ASK Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 A & B (allow extra time for this response)
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A & B, quickly
Leader ASK A volunteer to SUM UP highlights from QYH or ask for personal insights from QYH
Leader NOTE Appendix 6: “You, Take Russia” in the back of the study guide; if time permits, ask the group to share their responses to reading this

DAY FOUR JESUS SPEAKS ABOUT HIS DEATH

Leader ASK Q1 A & B
Group SHARE Responses to Q1 C
Leader ASK Q2, Q3 A & B
Volunteer READ Paragraph below Q3
Leader ASK Q4, asking for volunteers to read aloud 1 John 4:4, Ephesians 1:18–20, and 1 Corinthians 10:13
Leader READ QYH

DAY FIVE THE UNBELIEF OF THE PEOPLE

Leader ASK Q1
Volunteer READ Paragraph below Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 & Q3
Leader NOTE The prayer in the QYH section could be used for a closing prayer

CONCLUSION
Leader ASK Thoughts on the reflection from My Heart’s Cry

VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

Remind the participants the next session is our last Connect Coffee, the perfect opportunity to invite a friendto meet newwomen over coffee, watch an inspirational video, and join in on an engaging discussion!

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 14, Connect Coffee Talk 4: JESUS, THE KING

LEADER PRA Y On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

Leader NOTE : Consider printing a few copies of the CC Guest Outline in advance to have available for any guests

VIEW LESSON 14, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 4: JESUS, THE KING

Leader ASK Women to open their study guides to Lesson 14, Connect Coffee Talk 4: Jesus. the King
Leader PLAY: Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Connect Coffee Talk 4, which is accessible via free online streaming from the WWP website or YouTube, purchased download, or purchased DVD. Participants can follow the outline in their guides.

Refer to the Small Group Leader Workbook for icebreaker suggestions and review honor code before opening in prayer

DISCUSSION TIME: LESSON 14, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 4: JESUS, THE KING

Leader BEGIN By offering an Opening Prayer
Leader SHARE “In this lesson we’ll discuss Jesus as the King. Let’s take a look at the discussion questions.”
Leader ASK Q1, Q2, & Q3
“What else from the Talk stood out to you?”

AT-HOME WORK FOR NEXT SESSION

Leader ASK Women to do Lesson 15: Jesus, the Servant. Encourage them to dedicate 15 minutes each day (5 days of the week) to work on the lesson.
Leader REMIND Everyone of the day and time of the next session.

Review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook. Give thanks to the Lord and pray that the participants are able to carve out time to complete their lesson this week.

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 15: JESUS, THE SERVANT
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

INTRODUCTION
Leader SAY “What a difference just one chapter makes right? As noted in the Introduction, Jesus entered Jerusalem hailed as the King. Now the party is over. I wonder if anyone was struck by the 2nd paragraph where it says, ‘He [Jesus] had only a few hours left with His precious friends. Whatwould He say?’ In these next few chapters of John’s gospel we will read about the instructions He leaves for His apostles.”

XDAY ONE THE HOUR HAD COME
Leader SAY “It was not just a coincidence that Jesus’ last hours on earth were to be spent celebrating the Passover.”
Leader READ The paragraph before Q1
Leader ASK Q1, noting from the verses how God’s loves us
Leader ASK Q2 (factual)
Leader ASK Q3 A & B, look to answer key for further insights
Group SHARE Responses to Q4 A & B, allow time for discussion

DAY TWO WASHING THE DISCIPLES’ FEET

Leader ASK Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q2, noting what phrases were underlined/highlighted in quote from St.
Gregory of Nazianzus
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A & B
Leader ASK Q4 A & B (factual)
Leader ASK For women to share what resonated with them from QYH. What was Jesus’ definition of
greatness, as described by Martin Luther King, Jr.? Allow time for women to discuss. Finish by
reading—or ask a volunteer to read—from the last paragraph, starting, “By giving that
definition of greatness…”

DAY THREE JESUS FORETELLS HIS BETRAYAL

Leader ASK Q1 (factual, quickly)
Volunteer READ Paragraph at Q2
Leader ASK Q2 A, B (factual, quickly), open up to share group responses to Q2 C
Leader ASK For volunteer to read and answer Q2 D, noting the verses
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 & 4
Leader READ Paragraph following Q4
Leader ASK “What stood out to you from QYH; what did you underline/highlight?

DAY FOUR THE NEW COMMANDMENT

Leader ASK Q1 A, B, Q2 A, B, & Q3 (factual, quickly)
Group SHARE Responses to Q4 A & B
Leader SAY “Jesus loved radically. We are called to love radically, especially people who are difficult to love. Is anyone convicted by what we read in the QYH? Can we remember that, with the grace and strength that Jesus provides, loving radically is possible?”

DAY FIVE JESUS, THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE

Volunteer READ Paragraphs before Q1
Leader ASK Q1, Q2 A & B (factual)
Group SHARE Q2 C
Leader NOTE Prayer below Q2 could be used as a closing prayer
Leader ASK Q3A & B
Leader ASK Q4A & B, refer to the answer key for additional insights
Leader READ QYH, invite participants to highlight and reflect upon during their personal prayer time

CONCLUSION

Leader SUM UP The story of the priest washing the soiled clothing
Leader ASK First sentence of the Conclusion, “What does washing someone’s feet and showing radical
love look like in modern-day life?”

VERSE STUDY
Leader NOTE Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 16: JESUS, THE TRUE VINE
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting

INTRODUCTION

Leader SUM UP Introduction story from Lisa
Leader READ The quote from Ruth Bell Graham in the 7th paragraph and the 8th paragraph

DAY ONE THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Leader ASK Q1, Q2 A & B, ask for a volunteer to read commentary from Ignatius Study Bible in Q2 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A & B
Leader ASK Q4 & Q5
Leader SAY “What insight do we gain from the Lord’s words spoken to Saint Catherine of Siena from the QYH?”

DAY TWO JESUS, THE TRUE VINE

Leader SAY “These verses are exceptional and belong front and center as we discuss Day Two and Three. Because of that, we will be reading the verses and catechism to highlight this vital metaphor Jesus gives to us.”
Volunteer READ John 15:1–5
Leader ASK Q1,
Volunteer READ CCC 2074
Leader ASK Q2 A & B
Leader NOTE Look to answer key for further insights for Q3 A & B
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A, B, & Q4
Leader SAY Q5, noting the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22–23, say: “These are the fruits that we will bear if we remain connected to Jesus, if we abide in Him.”
Leader READ QYH

DAY THREE ABIDING IN CHRIST

Volunteer READ John 15: 6–11
Leader ASK Q1, noting the supplemental verses in Ezekial and Matthew; refer to the answer key for more insight
Leader ASK Q2
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 & 4
Volunteer READ QYH

DAY FOUR SACRIFICIAL LOVE

Leader ASK Q1 A & B, noting the different ways we are told to love from the verses provided
Leader NOTE If time permits, you may want to ask for a volunteer to read the quote by Saint Josemaría Escrivá that follows Q1 B
Leader ASK For insights from the quote by Saint Josemaría Escrivá. “What did you underline/highlight? What spoke to you?”
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 A & B
Leader READ QYH, noting in the second paragraph where it states, “Make a list of the little ways that God has shown you love in the past week.” This could be a resolution that the women choose to do for the upcoming week.

DAY FIVE THE WORLD’S HATRED

Leader ASK Q1, refer to answer key for more insight
Leader ASK Q2 (noting the verses provided), Q3, & Q4
Leader SAY “The QYH asks us to contemplate Jesus’ command to love one another, and that includes those that persecute us, even within our own Church. The Lord calls for us to be united; the enemy seeks todivide us. Asking God for the strength to forgive and let things go and handing these hurts over to Him is the best place to start down the road of restoration.”

CONCLUSION
Leader READ The third paragraph of conclusion, asking “How does it feel to read/hear these words? This is how Jesus feels about each one of us.” Encourage your group to come back to these words, write them in their prayer journals for a reminder of how truly loved and cherished they are

VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 17: JESUS, THE INTERCESSOR
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.

INTRODUCTION

Leader SAY “The Introduction details for us what Jesus was foretelling to His disciples: the persecution
and hatred they would endure. I’m wondering what resonated with you after reading this?” Allow timefor sharing
Leader SAY “Jesus assures us that no matter what we face, He will intercede for us. Let’s explore what that intercession looks like.

DAY ONE THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Group SHARE Responses to Q1; this is a personal question so invite women to share only if they feel comfortable
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 A & B
Leader ASK Q3
Volunteer READ Paragraph following Q3 and CCC 1433
Leader NOTE The jobs of the Holy Spirit, as listed in the QYH; encourage women to use this QYH in their personal prayer to intercede for loved ones

DAY TWO SORROW TURNED TO JOY

Leader ASK Q1 & Q2
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 & Q4, asking for a volunteer to READ Romans 8:18 and 2 Corinthians 4:16–18
Leader READ Paragraph following Q4, beginning at the quote from Saint Ignatius, “Let the fire, the gallows, the wild beasts…”

DAY THREE PEACE FOR THE DISCIPLES

Leader ASK Q1 & Q2, noting Romans 8:15–17 and CCC 2777
Group SHARE Responses to Q3
Leader NOTE Hebrews 4:16 as how God desires we approach Him always
Leader ASK Q4, refer to answer key for insight
Leader NOTE QYH and contemplating the virtue of fortitude; encourage use of the passage from Jesus Calling in personal pray

DAY FOUR JESUS PRAYS FOR HIS CHURCH

Leader READ Paragraph prior to Q1, noting the high priestly prayer of Jesus
Leader SAY “As the High Priests of the Old Testament would offer prayers for the people of Israel to the Lord in the Temple, so Jesus is our High Priest, interceding for us to God the Father. This prayer of Jesus can be used as a model for our own intercessory prayer—petitions for ourselves, petitions for others, petitions for those outside of the Church.”
Group SHARE Responses to Q1 & Q2, refer to answer key for further explanation on Q1
Volunteer READ Two paragraphs following Q2
Leader ASK For the group’s insight on how we can follow Christ and avoid a holy huddle
Leader ASK Q3 A, B, & C
Leader NOTE How we are called to pray for the shepherds of our Church: ordained as priests, bishops, and deacons. Encourage women to use the QYH prayer to pray for protection over our shepherds

DAY FIVE THE PRAYER FOR UNITY

Leader ASK Q1 & Q2
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 & Q4
Leader NOTE The urgency that Saint John Paul II spoke in the quote following Q4
Leader READ The quote from Justin Martyr in the QYH; ask the women to contemplate what the world might be like if Christians were as united as they were in the Early Church
CONCLUSION
Leader ASK For personal insights from the Conclusion: “What resonated with you? What did you underline/highlight?”
VERSE STUDY Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

RESOLUTIONS & PRAYER REQUESTS RESOLUTIONS
provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned to our daily lives. Encourage participants to select a resolution or create their own to commit to. Complete PRAYER INTENTIONS. An option for CLOSING PRAYER is to say the Touching the Divine prayer.

Remind the participants the next session is our last Connect Coffee, the perfect opportunity to invite a friend to meet new women over coffee, watch an inspirational video, and join in on an engaging discussion!

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 18, Connect Coffee Talk 5: JESUS, THE
INTERCESSOR

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.
Leader NOTE Consider printing a few copies of the CC Guest Outline in advance to have available for any guests

VIEW LESSON 18, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 5: JESUS, THE INTERCESSOR

Leader ASK Women to open their study guides to Lesson 18, Connect Coffee Talk 5: Jesus, the
Intercessor Leader PLAY Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Connect Coffee Talk 5, which is accessible via free online streaming from the WWP website or YouTube, purchased download, or purchased DVD. Participants can follow the outline in their guides.

Refer to the Small Group Leader Workbook for icebreaker suggestions and review honor code before opening in prayer

DISCUSSION TIME: LESSON 18, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 5: JESUS, THE INTERCESSOR

Leader BEGIN By offering an Opening Prayer
Leader SHARE “In this lesson we’ll discuss Jesus, our Intercessor. Let’s take a look at the discussion questions.”
Leader ASK Q1, Q2, Q3 “What else from the Talk stood out to you?”

AT-HOME WORK FOR NEXT SESSION

Leader ASK Women to do Lesson 19: Jesus, Our Truth. Encourage them to dedicate 15 minutes each day (5 days of the week) to work on the lesson.
Leader REMIND Everyone of the day and time of the next session.

PRAYER INTENTIONS

Leader ASK Women to take turns sharing their prayer intention. Others can write down prayer requests on the Prayer Pages found in the back of their study guides.
Leader LEAD By example with your own prayer intention
Leader PRAY Aloud for each woman by name, trying to include what was shared. Close by praying a personalprayer, the Touching the Divine prayer, or a Hail Mary for the intentions.

Review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook. Give thanks to the Lord and pray that the participants are able to carve out time to complete their lesson this week

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 19: JESUS, OUR TRUTH
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code’

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.
INTRODUCTION
Leader SAY “As noted in the introduction, John 18 chronicles Jesus’ religious and civil trials.” Note the rules listed
Leader ASK For personal insights: what resonated with the group from the Introduction. Allow time for discussion

DAY ONE THE ARREST OF JESUS

Leader ASK Q1, Q2, & Q3
Group SHARE Responses to Q3, with Leader asking the group to reflect on the one last miracle Jesus displayed when He healed the servant’s ear. He left no doubt that He was no ordinary man.
Leader READ QYH, reflecting on the chaos that must have surrounded this situation and how God is always in control, even when it seems nothing or no one else is.

DAY TWO THE RELIGIOUS TRIALS AND PETER’S DENIAL

Leader NOTE For context, these trials took place throughout the evening
Leader ASK Q1 & Q2
Leader NOTE The paragraph following Q2, the ways that the Jewish authorities manipulated the system in order to
ensure the best possible outcome for themselves
Leader ASK Q3, noting in Matthew 26 the response to Jesus accepting the charge of being the Son of God
Group SHARE Responses to Q4 A & B
Volunteer READ Paragraph following Q4 B
Leader ASK Q4 C; ask the group to place themselves in Peter’s shoes, receiving the gaze of Jesus in that moment
Leader NOTE The beautiful reflection by Beth Moore in QYH, then READ the last paragraph of the QYH

DAY THREE JESUS BEFORE PILATE

Leader ASK Q1 A & B, noting the paragraph following Q1 B
Leader ASK Q2 & Q3, use answer key for further insights
Volunteer READ QYH

DAY FOUR JESUS SENTENCED TO DEATH

Leader ASK Q1 A, B, Q2 A, & B, use answer key for reference for Q1 B, Q2 A, & B
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 A & B
Leader ASK For a volunteer to read Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s quote in between Q3 A & B
Volunteer READ Q4, Leader ask for group to share insights
Leader READ QYH, noting the difference between self-reliance and relying on Christ

DAY FIVE JESUS AND HEROD

Leader NOTE We were asked to read passages in both John 18 and Luke 23
Leader ASK Q1, Q2 A & B
Leader READ Q4, asking for group to share personal insights
Volunteer READ QYH

CONCLUSION
Leader SAY “This conclusion is meant to be convicting. The people decided to release Barabbas, a known criminal, rather than Jesus, a gentle, peaceful teacher. Jesus didn’t just want to teach and preach. Hewanted to change hearts and change lives. What resonated with you? What did you\underline/highlight?” Allow time for discussion and sharing.

VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 20: JESUS, OUR REDEEMER
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.
INTRODUCTION
Leader READ Last two paragraphs of introduction

DAY ONE THE SCOURGING

Leader ASK Q1
Leader READ First paragraph following Q1 detailing a Roman scourging
Leader ASK For personal insights gained from the 2nd paragraph. Allow time for discussion
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 & Q3 (personal); invite women to share only if they feel comfortable for Q3
Leader NOTE Prayer in QYH can be used as the closing prayer

DAY TWO PILATE FINDS NO CRIME

Leader ASK Q1, 2, & 3
Group SHARE Responses to Q4, refer to the answer key for further insight
Leader READ QYH, noting how Jesus exercised restraint and self-control throughout this entire situation.
Leader SAY “Can we recognize that the same power Jesus displayed is the same power available to usthrough the indwelling Holy Spirit? Jesus could have escaped, but He CHOSE to stay, for you and for me.”

DAY THREE PILATE’S FINAL DECISION

Leader ASK Q1 A, B, & Q2, noting CCC 597 & 598
Group SHARE Q3 & Q4 (personal); invite women to share only if they feel comfortable for Q4
Leader READ From QYH, “Every time we sin, it causes Jesus pain.”
Leader SAY “The radical love and obedience that Jesus shows in John 19 is the same that we are called to. How often do we, like Pilate, choose our own plans, choose to look after ourselves rather than obey what
God is commanding? Can we trust that obeying God will truly lead to the abundant life promised in John 10:10? What is holding us back from complete trust in God’s plans?

DAY FOUR THE CRUCIFIXION

Leader ASK Q1, Q2, & Q3 A
Group SHARE Responses to Q3 B, first part; second part is more personal
Leader ASK Q4 (factual)
Group SHARE Responses to Q5, noting who John the Apostle represents at the foot of the Cross in that moment.
Refer to the answer key for further explanation
Leader READ Passage from Venerable Fulton Sheen’s book, Life of Christ
Leader ASK Group to contemplate the divine exchange noted in the QYH: “He takes our sins, our failings, our
inadequacies and, by the power of the cross, applies His forgiveness and mercy, transforming us into His image and likeness. He does this because He loves us.” How are we to respond?

DAY FIVE JESUS’ SIDE IS PIERCED

Leader ASK Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 A, B & C; Leader ask for volunteers to read each Scripture verse and CCC clip and respond; refer to answer key for further insight
Leader ASK Q3

CONCLUSION

Leader NOTE If time permits, the Leader may want to read the entire Conclusion, as it is very powerful. If time does not allow, ask the group to share their responses to reading the detailed description of what happens to a human body during the act of crucifixion as offered by Dr. C. Truman Davis. End byreading the last two paragraphs of the Conclusion, beginning, “And what were His words?

VERSE STUDY
Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 21: JESUS, OUR RESTORER
Small Group Welcome, Opening Prayer, & Honor Code

LEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.
INTRODUCTION
Leader READ Last two paragraphs of introduction
Leader ASK Group to share any responses they might have to the Introduction
Leader SAY “Can you relate to Mary Magdalene feeling so transformed by Jesus’ presence in her life, and how she might have felt following the Crucifixion? Let’s try to imagine and place ourselves next to Mary as we go through this lesson.”

DAY ONE THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS

Leader ASK Q1 A & B, use the answer key for further insight and note the words God would use to describe His beloved daughters in the Scripture verses provided
Leader ASK Q2 & Q3
Group SHARE Responses to Q4 A, B, & C
Leader READ Second paragraph after Q4 C, noting what was described in the paragraph directly above
Leader SAY “We are asked to further contemplate this moment when the earth shook, the sky darkened, and the veil of the Temple, keeping the Israelites from drawing close to the Presence of the Lord, was torn in two. Jesus had removed the barrier between the people and God the Father. We are now able to draw close to the Lord, as a small child draws close and climbs upon the lap of her loving father.”

DAY TWO THE POWER TO FORGIVE SINS

Leader ASK Q1, noting the different Scripture verses and CCC 645
Leader ASK Q2 & Q3
Leader NOTE Commentary following Q3 from the Navarre Bible about the authority given to the Apostles, the power to forgive sins, a power which prior to that was limited only to God. Jesus’ conferring the Holy Spirit upon His disciples acknowledges that they, too, were the lawful successors for offering forgiveness to the faithful believers.
Volunteer READ QYH, beginning with, “God gave us the way to eternal life by giving us His Son…”

DAY THREE JESUS APPEARS TO THE DISCIPLES

Leader ASK Q1
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 A, B, Q3, & Q4
Leader READ QYH

DAY FOUR THE RESTORATION OF PETER

Leader READ Paragraph leading into Q1
Leader ASK Q1, Q2, Q3, & Q4, noting CCC 881
Volunteer READ Paragraph following Q4 and QYH

DAY FIVE PETER IS GIVEN A COMMAND

Leader ASK Q1 A & B, use answer key for further explanation
Group SHARE Responses to Q2 A & B
Leader READ Q2 C (personal), invite women to share their insights if they feel comfortable; allow time for discussion
Leader ASK Q3
Volunteer READ QYH

CONCLUSION

Leader ASK Group to share their personal insights. What resonated with them from the Conclusion? Which description of Jesus do they most relate with? Which do they struggle with or do they feel convicted by? Allow time for sharing
VERSE STUDY Leader ASK Participants to share any thoughts they came up with from the verse study

RESOLUTIONS & PRAYER REQUESTS
RESOLUTIONS provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned to our daily lives. Encourage participants to select aresolution or create their own to commit to. Complete PRAYER INTENTIONS. An option for CLOSING PRAYER is to use the Touching the Divine prayer. Remind the participants the next session is our last Connect Coffee, the perfect opportunity to invite a friend to meet new women over coffee, watch an inspirational video, and join in on an engaging discussion!

After lesson: review self-assessment found in your Small Group Leader Workbook

Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Leader’s Guide
Lesson 22, Connect Coffee Talk 6: JESUS, OUR RESTORER

ALEADER PRAY On your own, prior to the start of the meeting.
Leader NOTE Consider printing a few copies of the CC Guest Outline in advance to have available for any guests

VIEW LESSON 22, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 6: JESUS, OUR RESTORER

Leader ASK Women to open their study guides to Lesson 22, Connect Coffee Talk 6: Jesus, our Restorer.
Leader PLAY Touching the Divine (Second Edition) Connect Coffee Talk 6, which is accessible via free online streaming from the WWP website or YouTube, purchased download, or purchased DVD. Participants can follow the outline in their guides

Refer to the Small Group Leader Workbook for icebreaker suggestions and review honor code before opening in prayer

DISCUSSION TIME: LESSON 22, CONNECT COFFEE TALK 6: JESUS, OUR RESTORER

Leader BEGIN By offering an Opening Prayer
Leader SHARE “In this lesson we’ll discuss Jesus, our intercessor. Let’s take a look at the discussion questions.”
Leader ASK Q1, Q2, & Q3 “What else from the Talk stood out to you?”

PRAYER INTENTIONS

Leader ASK Women to take turns sharing their prayer intention. Others can write down prayer requests on the Prayer Pages found in the back of their study guides.
Leader LEAD By example with your own prayer intention
Leader PRAY Aloud for each woman by name, trying to include what was shared. Close by praying a personal prayer, the Touching the Divine prayer, or a Hail Mary for the intentions.

Thank you for leading the discussion of Touching the Divine (Second Edition)! Visit our website to choose your next Walking with Purpose Bible study

References

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References

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Download This Manual (PDF format)

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