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.

60–75 minutes • Ideal with chapel / church accessFocus: Real Presence, friendship with Jesus

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.