Session 1, Carlo & The Eucharist
Helping teens discover why the Eucharist was Carlo’s “highway to Heaven”, and how it can become the centre of their own lives.
Session Overview
This session introduces teens to Carlo’s love for the Eucharist in a simple, concrete way. The goal is not to overload them with theology but to help them see the Eucharist as a living relationship: Jesus present, here and now, for them.
Aim of the session
Teens begin to connect the Mass and Eucharistic adoration with friendship, not just obligation, and see why Carlo chose daily Mass as the “engine” of his life.
Key elements
- Short intro to Carlo’s Eucharistic habits
- Scripture on the Bread of Life
- Small-group discussion
- Quiet time before the tabernacle (if possible)
Key Carlo quote
“The Eucharist is the highway to Heaven.”
Scripture focus
John 6:51-58, Jesus, the Bread of Life.
Suggested 60-75 Minute Outline
1. Welcome & icebreaker (10 minutes)
- Simple check-in: “Best thing you ate this week?”
- Link gently: food keeps our bodies alive, what keeps our hearts alive?
2. Carlo story segment (10 minutes)
- Briefly tell how Carlo:
- Received First Communion at 7
- Chose daily Mass and adoration
- Called the Eucharist his “highway to Heaven”
- Optional: show a picture of Carlo praying or his tomb.
3. Scripture & short teaching (10-15 minutes)
- Read John 6:51-58 slowly, preferably by a teen.
- Ask: “What word or phrase stands out?”, allow a few to share.
- Leader gives a short, simple explanation:
- Jesus promises real presence, not a symbol.
- Carlo took that seriously and organised his day around it.
4. Small group discussion (15-20 minutes)
- Break into groups of 4-6 with an adult / older teen.
- Use the questions section below.
5. Prayer before the tabernacle (10-15 minutes)
- Move reverently to the church or chapel if available.
- Invite them to sit or kneel in silence for a few minutes.
- Leader can quietly suggest: “Talk to Jesus like you would to a close friend. Tell Him one thing you’re grateful for and one thing you’re worried about.”
6. Closing prayer (5 minutes)
- Pray aloud together, for example: “Jesus, thank You for staying with us in the Eucharist. Through Saint Carlo’s intercession, teach us to love Your presence.”
- Option: finish with a simple Eucharistic hymn if you have music.
Discussion Questions For Small Groups
Pick 3-5 depending on time and how chatty your group is.
- When you hear the word “Eucharist” or “Mass”, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
- Do you find it easy or hard to believe Jesus is really present in the Host? Why?
- Carlo organised his day around Mass. If you tried to put God first for a week, what might change?
- Have you ever had a moment at Mass or in prayer where you felt God was close? What happened?
- What is one small, concrete step you could take this week to take the Eucharist more seriously?
Follow-up Challenge For The Week
Encourage each teen to choose one realistic action:
- Arrive 5 minutes earlier to Sunday Mass and sit in silence.
- Make a short visit to the church one day after school.
- Say “Thank You, Jesus” after receiving Communion.