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O U R
S U N D A Y
V I S I T O R
PARISH 6
C A T E C H I S T
E D I T I O N
GRADE 6
CATECHIST EDITION
The Word of God in the Old Testament aliveinchrist.osv.com
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The Subcommittee on the Catechism, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, has found the doctrinal content of this manual, copyright 2014, to be in conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Nihil Obstat Rev. Fr. Jeremiah L. Payne, S.Th.L. Censor Librorum, Diocese of Orlando Imprimatur ✠ Most Rev. John Noonan Bishop of Orlando April 30, 2013 © 2014 by Our Sunday Visitor Curriculum Division, Our Sunday Visitor. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Write: Our Sunday Visitor Curriculum Division Our Sunday Visitor, Inc. 200 Noll Plaza, Huntington, Indiana 46750 Permission is granted to individual catechists and teachers using the corresponding student textbooks as the major vehicle for regular instruction to photocopy Copying Masters from this publication for instructional use and not for resale. Alive in Christ is a registered trademark of Our Sunday Visitor Curriculum Division, Our Sunday Visitor, 200 Noll Plaza, Huntington, Indiana 46750. For permission to reprint copyrighted materials, grateful acknowledgment is made to the following sources: English translation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church for the United States of America copyright © 1994, United States Catholic Conference, Inc.—Libreria Editrice Vaticana. English translation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Modiÿcations from the Editio Typica copyright © 1997, United States Catholic Conference, Inc.—Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Excerpts from the English translation of Rite of Baptism for Children © 1969, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation (ICEL); excerpts from the English translation of Rite of Marriage © 1969, ICEL; excerpts from the English translation of Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults © 1985, ICEL, excerpts from the English translation of Roman Missal © 2010, (ICEL). All rights reserved. Published with the approval of the Committee on Divine Worship, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Gadium et Spes (“Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World”) © Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Scripture selections taken from the New American Bible, revised edition © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 by the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington, D.C., and are used by license of the copyright owner. All rights reserved. No part of the New American Bible may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the copyright owner. Additional acknowledgements appear on page CE65.
Alive in Christ Parish Grade 6 Catechist Edition ISBN: 978-1-61278-033-7 Item Number: CU5121 [print code] [CPSIA Line]
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Table of Contents
About Alive In Christ
Student Lessons
Program Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE4 Vision.and.Philosophy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE4 Alive in Christ Structural.Framework. . . . . . . . . . . .CE8 Alive in Christ Program.Components . . . . . . . . . .CE10 Online.Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE11
OPEning LESSOn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Call of the Catechist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE12 Responding.to.Your.Vocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE12 The Task of Catechesis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE14 As.Jesus.Formed.His.Disciples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE14 Unique and Effective Pedagogy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE16 The.Divine.Pedagogy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE16 Three.Step.Catechetical.Process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE18 Lesson.Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE20 Sacred.Scripture.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE22 Sacred.Tradition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE23 Developmental Appropriateness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE24 The.Theory.and.Practice.of.It.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE24 The.Use.of.Images.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE26 The.Role.of.Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE27 Reaching.All.Learners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE28 Teaching.Sixth..Graders.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE29 Family and Community. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE30 Living.and.Learning.Together. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE30 Catholic.Social.Teaching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE31 Scope and Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE32 Grade Five . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE32 Grade.Six. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE36 Endnotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CE40
ChUrCh FEASTS AnD SEASOnS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 UniT 1: revelation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..52 Chapter.1:. Divine.Revelation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53A Chapter.2:. The.Creation.Accounts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63A Chapter.3:. God’s.Faithfulness .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ...73A UniT 2: Trinity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..86 Chapter.4:. Journeys.of.Faith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87A Chapter.5:. God’s.Saving.Action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...97A Chapter.6:. Living.the.Covenant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107A UniT 3: Jesus Christ. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .120 Chapter.7:. Leaders.for.God’s.People. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121A Chapter.8:. The.Wisdom.of.God. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131A Chapter.9:. Prophetic.Promise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141A UniT 4: The Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154 Chapter.10:. The.Gospel.Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155A Chapter.11:. The.Early.Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165A Chapter.12:. The.Body.of.Christ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175A UniT 5: Morality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188 Chapter.13:. The.Great.Commandment. . . . . . . . . . . .189A Chapter.14:. Justice.and.Peace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199A Chapter.15:. Sin.and.Forgiveness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209A UniT 6: Sacraments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222 Chapter.16:. Baptized.for.Mission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .223A Chapter.17:. Lives.of.Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .233A Chapter.18:. Sharing.God’s.Love. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .243A UniT 7: Kingdom of god. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .256 Chapter.19:. The.Communion.of.Saints . . . . . . . . . . . .257A Chapter.20:. Christian.Unity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .267A Chapter.21:. A.New.Creation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277A CAThOLiC SOCiAL TEAChing. Live Your Faith. . . .290 OUr CAThOLiC TrADiTiOn. Faith Basics . . . . . . . .304 Activity Master Answer Keys .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .CE55
Table of Contents CE3
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Program Overview
Vision and Philosophy I am the way and the truth* and the life… I am the resurrection and the life.
John 14:6, 11:25
Jesus Christ not only transmits the word of God: he is the Word of God. Catechesis is therefore completely tied to him. Thus what must characterize the message transmitted by catechesis is, above all, its ‘christocentricity’. 1 General Directory for Catechesis, 98
Jesus Christ at the Center Welcome to Alive in Christ. Christ is at the center of our faith, our Church, our catechesis. Alive in Christ is intentional in its focus on the life, mission, and saving work of Jesus Christ. This lays a foundation for a relationship with Jesus, who continually leads us to his Father’s love and calls us through the Spirit to share in the divine life through his Church (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 426).
Mirroring the Divine Pedagogy The catechetical process of Alive in Christ mirrors the divine pedagogy—the gradual and relational way God teaches us so that we can know him and his truth, be guided by the Holy Spirit to respond with faith and love, and accept the gift of new life in Christ. In this unique and effective pedagogy, each lesson encourages a personal and ongoing relationship with God, beginning with God’s invitation through Sacred Scripture and leading children to reflect on his Word, deepen their understanding of our Sacred Tradition, and respond with a lived faith within the home and among friends, within the Church and in the community.
Building Knowledge of, and Reverence for, Sacred Scripture Sacred Scripture from the New American Bible Revised Edition is foundational to every lesson in Alive in Christ. Scripture from both the Old Testament and New Testament is presented in a variety of ways that encourage children to listen to the voice of God in his written Word and learn about the people and stories of the Bible. Each lesson offers several distinct encounters with Sacred Scripture, giving children the opportunity to pray with, reflect on, study, and apply God’s Word to their lives.
CE4 Alive in Christ
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Comprehensive Presentation of Catholic Teaching Alive in Christ provides an authentic and comprehensive presentation of the essentials of the Catholic faith and has been found by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee on the Catechism to be in conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Following a systematically organized scope and sequence, key themes of Catholic teaching are repeated each year, through a grade-level focus, building on the child’s knowledge of the faith at each developmental stage. This presentation of Catholic teaching—coupled with a purposeful emphasis on Catholic practices, images, and models of faith—promotes a common language of faith and builds a vibrant Catholic identity.
Developmentally Responsive and Appropriate Created by a team of experts in catechesis, theology, and child psychology Alive in Christ incorporates the most trusted research on how children learn and communicate. Definitions, activities, questions, and reading passages have been reviewed for developmental appropriateness. Targeted on-page interactions help children more effectively learn or reinforce lesson content. Topics are presented at important developmental “windows”—ages when research in child development tells us that learning about a particular topic would be most effective. Illustrations, Catholic art, and photos emphasize Scripture and visually present the chapter objectives in ways children can understand and relate to.
Complete and Purposeful Approach to Prayer and Worship Every grade level intentionally incorporates each of the five forms of prayer mentioned in the Catechism—blessing and adoration, petition, intercession, thanksgiving and praise (see CCC, 2626-2643). Children learn about and pray these basic prayer forms and are introduced to traditional prayers and devotions of the Church. They are taught how to talk with God in their own words and listen silently as he speaks to them. Each grade level also presents many opportunities to deepen children’s understanding of the feasts and seasons of the Church year and how we celebrate the Paschal Mystery through them.
Program Overview CE5
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Program Overview
Putting Faith into Practice Alive in Christ presents and effectively implements the six fundamental tasks of catechesis (see General Directory for Catechesis, 84–85). Exercises, features, and questions throughout the text prompt children to relate knowledge of our Catholic faith with their life experience. Every chapter has on page activities for immediate application as well as concrete suggestions for children to live out the faith at school, at their parish, and in their homes, and communities. Each lesson’s Our Catholic Life section provides practical examples of the ways we worship, live, pray, and serve together as Catholics. It introduces children to Catholic figures who stand as models of heroic virtue in everyday life. Every lesson has connections to the Catholic social tradition, and each grade level provides catechesis on the seven major themes of the Church’s Social Teaching.
Practical Ways to Involve Families in Their Children’s Faith Formation The “Family + Faith” page and an extensive website give parents the tools they need to know what their children are learning, talk about the faith, and recognize how they can more consciously live the faith in their daily family life. On each lesson’s take home page, parents will find information about children’s developmental understanding, discussion prompts, and resources for family prayer. Taking into consideration the aims of the New Evangelization, each page includes an opportunity for adult reflection on their own relationship with Jesus and the Church. Online resources offer multimedia tools to foster family interaction and reinforce the lesson at home.
A Commitment to Support Both New and Experienced Catechists Alive in Christ Catechist Editions empower catechists with easy-to-use and effective tools for lesson planning, teaching and reinforcing faith concepts, and growing in their own relationship with Christ and his Church. The key concepts and chapter objectives are fully explained and conveniently located at the beginning of each lesson along with background to strengthen catechist understanding and nurture personal faith. A clear, concise, wraparound lesson plan leads the catechist page-bypage through the effective three-step process with integrated background on Sacred Scripture and doctrine, teaching tips, and connections to music, liturgy, and Catholic Social Teaching.
CE6 Alive in Christ
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Extensive Online Resources for Catechists and Families Alive in Christ provides catechists and leaders comprehensive program level resources and unit, chapter, and seasonal specific tools and activities. Online support includes lesson planning tools, catechist formation, custom test building and eAssessments, connections to the Sunday readings, and the option to share lesson plans via social media. This extensive site provides children and families access to web-based assessments, interactive games and reviews, and articles and resources targeted specifically to adults—all to support faith sharing and continued learning in the home.
Age-Appropriate Music that Enhances Learning With the knowledge that music is a means for forming children in Sacred Scripture, Church teachings, and Catholic Identity, Alive in Christ integrates multiple music options into every lesson. A variety of music from OCP (Oregon Catholic Press), John Burland, Dr. Jo Ann Paradise, and other sources is tied to chapter objectives and themes. Music is suggested at point-of-use in the Catechist Edition, with multiple song suggestions for each chapter. Many prayer pages feature a song to be used within the prayer service. Music can be sampled and downloaded. Also, we now have an all-new music component, Songs of Scripture: Deepening Children’s Understanding of the Word of God, which features songs that teach, reinforce, and unfold the meaning of Scripture stories presented in the Student Book.
Alive in Christ Development Team
Greg Erlandson
Beth McNamara
Sabrina Magnuson
President and Publisher
General Manager
Associate Publisher
Dr. Jo Ann Paradise
Dr. Joseph White
Ana Arista Heidi Busse David Dziena Dr. Hosffma Ospino Denise Utter
Program Overview CE7
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Program Overview
Alive in Christ Structural Framework Alive in Christ follows a systematic Scope and Sequence organized around key themes of Catholic teaching that repeat each year within a grade-level focus, building on the child’s knowledge of the faith at each developmental stage. This organizational structure takes into account research in child development that tells us at which age learning about a particular topic is most effective. These developmental “windows” help us to understand when the spiritual, cognitive, emotional, sociological, moral, and physical abilities of a child are “ripe” for learning. Included in the sequence, then, is a sensitivity to when children are ready to learn. A grade level focus based within the structural framework of the seven essential truths allows for optimal learning.
The seven essential, eternal truths of the faith— Revelation, Trinity, Jesus, The Church, Sacraments, Morality and Kingdom of God—provide the structural framework that organizes the content of the grade. Progressing from first to sixth grade, the child deepens understanding as he or she is presented c ontent that is theologically precise and developmentally appropriate. As you study the Scope and Sequence, you will see how the objectives across grades move the learner to examine and appropriate a greater knowledge of our Catholic faith and how those objectives help to form a vibrant Catholic Identity.
Grade Level Focus 1: Jesus Christ
“For through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26
2: Sacraments of Penance and the Eucharist
“This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me.” Luke 22:19
3: The Church
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit…” John 15:5
4: The Moral Life
“This is my commandment: love one another as I love you.” John 15:12
5: The Seven Sacraments
“The water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:14
6: The Word of God in the Old Testament
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for an overview of the developmental windows for each grade level focus and full program Scope and Sequence.
CE8 Alive in Christ
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Program Scope and Sequence This graphic gives a visual image of the scope and sequence as a fourth grader in your group will experience it. The circles on the outside name the essential truths that are the framework (unit structure) for every grade level. The child is holding key
Unit 3 Jesus Christ
developmental factors or “windows” that lead to the grade level focus (for more on this, see page CE29). No matter what unit you are teaching, some component of the grade level focus is being treated.
Unit 4 The Church
Unit 5 Morality
Unit 2 Trinity
Unit 6 Sacraments
Unit 1 Revelation
Unit 7 Kingdom of God
Snapshot of Developmental Factors Sixth Grade—The Word of God in the Old Testament
• Children in sixth grade are growing in their abstract thinking ability and have made great strides in their reading and writing abilities. This makes sixth grade a great time to study Sacred Scripture and begin to connect the events of salvation history. • Sixth graders are also becoming young adolescents, so this is an important time to strengthen their Catholic identity through study of our faith ancestors and basic doctrines.
Program Overview CE9
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Program Overview
Alive in Christ Program Components Student Books Grades 1 to 6 Parish Edition Student Books follow a seven unit structure with a grade level focus on a foundational topic in our Catholic faith. They are the perfect tool to teach children to know, love, and live their Catholic faith through Sacred Scripture, doctrine, prayer, practices of the faith, and seasonal celebrations. Catechist Editions The Catechist Editions help to build confident, capable, and successful catechists with comprehensive background and lesson preparation pages, timed wrap around lesson plans, optional activities, and point of use information. They are spiral bound and conveniently sized to match the Student Book.
about models of our Catholic faith while deepening their relationship with God and the Church. Music Resources Catechists are provided options for developmentallyappropriate music that enhances learning. Alive in Christ integrates music into each step of the lesson. A variety of music from Oregon Catholic Press is tied to chapter objectives and themes. A unique, all new music component, Songs of Scripture: Deepening Children’s Understanding of God’s Word, features songs by John Burland and Dr. Jo Ann Paradise, that teach, reinforce, and unfold the meaning of Scripture stories presented in the Student Book.
People of Faith Collection This beautifully illustrated collection of Saints, Blesseds, and Venerables are connected to specific chapters. Children will learn
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Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to find comprehensive online support with lesson planning tools, electronic assessments, and a variety of helpful resources for catechists, program directors, parents, and children.
Online Resources For the Catechist • Online lesson planning helps catechists to plan using chapter, seasonal, or Catholic Social Teaching lessons
Online Resources For the Student & Family • Interactive Reviews offer children an opportunity for web-based assessment, preparation, and practice
• Share lesson plans via social media such as Facebook & Twitter
• At-home faith formation resources for all ages help reinforce Catholic identity
• Unit- and chapter-specific tools, assessments, activities, and multimedia resources • Build a Custom Test allows catechists to build, print, and distribute tests using a bank of multiple choice, matching, fill in the blank, and long answer questions
• Faith-sharing features and resources geared to parents, children, and families encourage continued learning at home via games, multimedia activities, Lectionary-connected resources, social media interaction, and topical articles
• Assign eAssessments to children for completion Online
• Sample and download chapter-specific music to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer
• Catechetical formation and professional development tools are designed to help catechists hone their skills and grow in the knowledge of God’s love
Online Resources For the Leader • Program-level tools and resources provide directors, administrators, and leaders with higher-level materials from correlations to in-service models
• Sample and download chapter-specific music to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer
• Sample and download chapter-specific music to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer
Program Overview CE11
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Call of the Catechist
Responding to Your Vocation Give thanks to the Lord for the gift of your vocation, through which Christ has called you from among other men and women to be instruments of his salvation. Respond with generosity to your vocation and your names will be written in heaven. — Blessed Pope John Paul II, Guide for Catechists, 37 These words, taken from a talk by Blessed Pope John Paul II to the catechists of Angola, are both awe inspiring and challenging! You have been called, he said, called by Christ from among other men and women. Have you ever wondered why you responded to the talk of the pastor or DRE that spoke about the need for catechists? Why did the bulletin article that outlined the responsibilities of a catechist stir your heart and prompt you to respond? Who gave your name to the catechetical leader in your parish? No matter how the invitation came, it was Christ who called you. And by the power of the Holy Spirit, you, like Mary, responded, “Yes!” The vocation to catechesis, like all vocations, first comes from the grace of Baptism,
is strengthened in Confirmation, and sustained by the Eucharist and Penance. “The Church awakens and discerns this divine vocation and confers the mission to catechize….This personal call of Jesus Christ and its relationship to him are the true moving forces of catechetical activity. ‘From this loving knowledge of Christ springs the desire to proclaim him, to ”evangelize,” and to lead others to the “Yes” of faith in Jesus Christ’2” (GDC, 231).
You have been called by Christ and been given the mission by his Church to be instruments of his work. Take a moment and ponder that statement. With so many responsibilities and demands on our time, we might sometimes lose sight of this and being a catechist becomes just one of the many things we must do each week. This cannot be so. Every time you gather with your children, you take your place in the long line of those who have for 2,000 years held the sacred duty of bringing others into “communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ” (Catechesi Tradendae, 5).
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Your Role To support and nurture your children in their baptismal call to a lifetime of growing closer to and more like Jesus, the Church sets out some essential instructions. In order to provide a presentation of the “entire treasure of the Christian message” while adapting it to the “capacity of those being catechized” (GDC, 112), a catechist must do several things. Teach the comprehensive course of study outlined by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee on the Catechism. In Alive in Christ, you find these doctrines and practices presented in the objectives of the lesson. (See GDC, 112) Respect the developmental level of your children by understanding how they learn. (See GDC, 112) Use various methods as they are a “sign of life and richness” that will address multiple learning styles and special needs (GDC, 148).
Model a Catholic life through your own behaviors and practices, for the “charism given to [the catechist] by the Spirit, a solid spirituality and transparent witness of life constitutes the soul of every method” (GDC, 156). Proclaim with joy and enthusiasm that “God so loved the world he sent his only Son.” In the words of Pope Benedict XVI, “Today too, there is a need… to rediscover the joy of believing and the enthusiasm for communicating the faith” (Porta Fidei, 7).
As you accept this sacred and challenging vocation be assured that the Holy Spirit will lead and guide you in handing on our Catholic faith to the next generation. Let the love of God pour through so that they see in you the image and heart of our loving God.
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The Task of Catechesis
As Jesus Formed His Disciples There are six fundamental tasks in the ministry of catechesis. These six tasks are named and treated in the General Directory for Catechesis (GDC , 85), and later in the National Directory for Catechesis (NDC, 20). Each of these tasks corresponds to an aspect of faith in Jesus. The following are the six tasks of catechesis.
General Directory of Catechesis
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith
Moral Formation
We cannot live a faith we do not know. For this reason, studying the teachings of Jesus and his Church is an essential task of catechesis. The U.S. Bishops’ Subcommittee on the Catechism and the conformity review process direct what is to be contained in this comprehensive presentation of the faith. According to the National Directory for Catechesis, this task of catechesis is a response to the individual’s desire that God plants in the heart of every person to know. This desire comes naturally when individuals have had opportunities to encounter Christ and his message and have experienced an initial conversion. Alive in Christ begins each lesson by giving children an opportunity to meet God in his Word and to wonder about his life and love, followed by a process of helping them to know more about him through Sacred Tradition—the teaching of the Church. In this way, we help children frame questions that drive their desire to know more.
This task of catechesis involves forming the consciences of learners through the moral teachings of Jesus and his Church and fostering understanding of what it means to live these teachings in one’s daily life. Morality in the Christian life involves standards and guidelines, but it is more than learning a list of rules. Morality is about discipleship. As you use Alive in Christ, you will find opportunities to challenge children to apply what they have learned about the Ten Commandments, Jesus’ command to love as he has loved, and the Beatitudes to situations at home and school and in the community.
Liturgical Education This task relates to learning about the ways in which the Church worships and celebrates, including the Seven Sacraments, the Order of Mass, and the liturgical year. According to the General Directory of Catechesis, liturgical education includes teaching about the form and the meaning of liturgical celebrations, but also means helping individuals prepare their minds and hearts to enter into these mysteries of our faith. As you use Alive in Christ, you will teach your students about the liturgy both through the doctrine presented in the core chapters as well as through seasonal activities and prayerful experiences that echo the words and rhythms of our liturgical celebrations.
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Teaching to Pray “When catechesis is permeated by a climate of prayer, the assimilation of the entire Christian life reaches its summit” (GDC, 85). The “climate of prayer” in catechesis invites individuals into an ever deeper relationship with God. Teaching to pray is more than merely “teaching prayers”; it involves fostering an understanding of prayer as conversation with God— helping children learn how to talk with God in their own words as well as how to listen to God. This task of catechesis involves teaching the traditional prayers of the Church and the various forms and expressions of prayer mentioned in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Alive in Christ incorporates experiences of all six forms of prayer. You will also have opportunities to help children speak to God in their own words.
Education for Community Life This task of catechesis relates to developing an understanding of what it means to be a part of the Christian community, including respecting the authority and structure of the Church as well as living out Jesus New Commandment to love one another as he has loved us. “Catechesis prepares the Christian to live in community and to participate actively in the life and mission of the Church” (GDC, 86). Catechesis should prepare us to live and work with one another, both within the Church and in society as a whole. The
bishops write that catechesis “should encourage a spirit of simplicity and humility, a special concern for the poor, particular care for the alienated, a sense of fraternal correction, common prayer, mutual forgiveness, and a fraternal love that embraces all these attitudes.” Various chapter features, as well as the “Live Your Faith” sections on Catholic Social Teaching will assist you in this task of catechesis.
Missionary Initiation While only some may be called to other lands to minister in Christ’s name, by Baptism, all are called to live in such a way that we serve as witnesses of the faith to those who are around us. This task of catechesis prepares the learner to share his or her faith with others. Alive in Christ helps to form children in the language of the Catholic faith and the behaviors and practices of the faith. Forming them in a vibrant Catholic identity gives them the skills necessary to be strong witnesses of the faith. This is reinforced in the tools we provide the parents in the Family + Faith page, as it equips the parents to talk about faith with their children. Our bishops state, “all efforts in evangelization and catechesis should incorporate these tasks” (NDC, 20). In this way, we pay attention to several different dimensions of faith, with the ultimate goal of helping children grow into deeper communion with Christ so that they live as disciples in faith, word, and deed.
The Tasks of the Catechesis CE15
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Unique and Effective Pedagogy
The Divine Pedagogy As catechists, we always hold two realities: the “what” and the “how” of catechesis. What do we want our children to know and love about our faith and how do we best communicate the treasure of our faith? We use the word pedagogy to speak about the art, science, or profession of teaching. In other words, pedagogy is the “how” of faith formation. We are called to hand on the truths of our faith by echoing God’s own way of teaching us his truths. The General Directory for Catechesis tells us that, Catechesis, as communication of divine Revelation, is radically inspired by the pedagogy of God, as displayed in Christ and in the Church… It is the Church’s mission to be a visible and actual continuation of the pedagogy of the Father and of the Son. GDC, 143, 141 Each lesson in Alive in Christ mirrors the divine pedagogy—the gradual and relational way God teaches us so that we can know him and his truth, be guided by the Holy Spirit to respond with faith and love and accept the gift of new life in Christ. Even as we teach others, God remains active in their hearts, bringing growth to the seeds of faith that are planted there. Here are five important characteristics of the divine pedagogy that are at the heart of each lesson of Alive in Christ. The pedagogy of God is invitational and person-centered. God initiates a relationship with each person. He does so by first creating us with a desire to know him and the capacity to respond to him. The ultimate invitation to relationship comes in Jesus. Blessed John Paul II tells us that the purpose of all catechesis is to bring people into intimacy with Jesus.
Jesus the Teacher
As God enters into dialogue with us, we are called to follow this example by providing catechesis that it is rooted in interpersonal relationships and involves a process of dialogue, (see GDC, 143). God also meets us where we are and accommodates for our particular needs. Therefore, effective catechesis should be developmentally-appropriate and should make allowances for adapting to special needs. God’s pedagogy is incarnational. Dei Verbum points out the “inner unity” of deeds and words in God’s plan of revelation: “the deeds wrought by God in the history of salvation manifest and confirm the teaching and realities signified by the words, while the words proclaim the deeds and clarify the mystery contained in them” (2). From speaking the universe into existence, to his promise to Noah and his
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covenants with Abraham and Moses, to the Word made flesh in Jesus Christ, it is evident that God’s Word becomes action. An effective pedagogy should make the faith come to life through hands-on activities and applications and multisensory teaching methodologies. It should give learners clear ways to go out and live the Gospel they have received. The pedagogy of God is familial and communal. God reveals himself as a communion of persons—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—and creates human beings to be in communion with one another. Effective catechesis should build community among the children and should involve parents and families as primary catechists, and should connect children to the larger parish community. Connecting the families to the life of the parish, particularly through participation in the Sunday Eucharist, is vital in building up the Body of Christ. God’s pedagogy is structured and comprehensive. In salvation history, God reveals himself to humanity gradually as people are able to understand. One Revelation builds upon the next, until Revelation reaches its fullness in the Person of Jesus Christ. Effective catechesis also presents key truths of the faith gradually as the learner is able to receive them. The pedagogy of God is perpetual. We read in Isaiah 55:11, “So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; It shall not return to me empty, but shall do what pleases me, achieving the end for which I sent it.” God’s truths are handed on through the generations in the forms of Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, which is the living memory of the Church. God’s covenants do not end, but come to greater fulfillment and realization. A catechesis based on the divine pedagogy prepares the learner to share the Gospel with others, in word and deed, so that the Good News of salvation is handed on to others and to future generations.
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Unique and Effective Pedagogy
Invite
Three Step Catechetical Process Alive in Christ’s catechetical methodology mirrors the divine pedagogy by following a three-step process of Invite, Discover, and Live. This process encourages a personal and ongoing relationship with the Holy Trinity.
1 God’s Gifts Leader: God, we thank you for all that you have made. The earth and all that is in it belong to God; the world and all who live in it are God’s. ase sa m All: Thank you, God, for creating each of us. Amen.
If you follow this three-step process, you will in fact mirror the divine pedagogy by offering your children the opportunity to know God and his truth through Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. You will inspire them to be open to the Holy Spirit so that they will respond in faith and love and accept the gift of new life in Christ!
Have the children move from the prayer space back to their seats.
© Our Sunday Visitor
God’s Word
Explain that God created everything that we see and hear, especially each of us.
any have worked to write about the events that have happened among us ust as those who were there at the beginning have handed the events and stories down to us.
Say: Now, let’s hear what some
e
people have said about what God has done for us.
1. The Invite Step begins the lesson with God’s invitation through Sacred Scripture. Children open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in Scripture, reflect on it, and transition to the Discover step and chapter objectives.
3. The Live Step helps children relate knowledge of the faith and the ways we worship, live, pray, and serve together as Catholics. Children are given the tools to connect their faith to everyday life and to deepen their relationship with God and the Church through the prayer experiences at the end of each lesson.
Invite Let Us Pray Invite the children to gather in the prayer space and make the Sign of the Cross. Read aloud the leader’s prayer and the Psalm verse. Prompt the children’s response.
Let Us Pray
ase
2. The Discover Step helps form Catholic identity through the study of Scripture, knowledge of Church teaching, and an understanding of Catholic practices. It presents the doctrine of the lesson in developmentally appropriate language and images. Charts, on page questions, and gold star activities prompt children to interact directly with the page, and aid in understanding and retention. With large on page activities, children are given the opportunity to process and reinforce what they have learned and apply it to their own lives and the experience of the Church.
I nvit e
T
God’s Word Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. • Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
• What stories do we have about esus and his family • How do stories teach us to care for the things God has given us
• Proclaim the Scripture. God s Gifts
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Optional Activity
• Maintain several moments of silence. • Ask: What did you hear God say to you today? • Invite volunteers to share.
Chapter Poem: “God Made Me”
Verbal/Linguistic
Use this poem after the opening prayer, before explaining that God created everything. • Have the children read the poem in pairs. • Ask: What are some ways you are different and alike from your family members? • After connecting how we learn about family and God through stories, transition back to the lesson instruction.
What Do You Wonder? Say: We learn from stories when people tell us what happened before we were born. We also share in the stories that we hear from other people as we listen to them. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about the special role people have in God’s creation.
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Chapter Poem.
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As a catechist, during the Invite step you:
• Call the children together to begin in prayer. • Prepare the children to hear the Word of God. • Guide the children through the Scripture refle tion process, proclaiming God’s Word and inviting quiet thought. (See CE22 for a full description of the Scripture reflection process.) • After proclamation of the Scripture, allow time (governed by what is developmentally appropriate) for sacred silence. • Invite children to share what they have experienced, what they felt God was saying to them or what he wanted them to know in a special way today. Assure them sharing is voluntary. • Prompt continued thought about God’s Word and move to chapter objectives by using the “What Do You Wonder” questions.
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Discover Discover
Praise and Thanks David was a shepherd a very long time ago. He became a king of God’s People. He wrote poems of praise and thanks to God. Many of David’s poems are part of the Bible. They are called psalms. Sometimes you hear the psalms at Mass.
• Understand the special role humans have in all of God’s creation
Praise and Thanks
• Tell the children they will discover the answer in the text on this page.
David often watched the sheep in the fields at night. He was amazed by the wonders of the night sky. As he looked at everything in creation, he praised God for his gifts. David was grateful, most of all, that people had been made in God’s own image. This means people can think and love and make choices. Nothing else God made can do these things.
poems and prayers from the Bible they can be said or sung everything made by God
“ Lord, our Lord, how awesome is your name through all the earth … You have given man rule over the works of your hands, put all things at his feet: ll sheep and o en, even the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, the fish of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas.” sa m
Have a volunteer read aloud the paragraph.
Our Catholic Life
• Ask the children to name one of God’s creations that they love.
Invite a volunteer to read aloud the question.
God’s Word Give each child a picture of sheep, oxen, birds, or fish. • Tell the children to hold up the appropriate picture when they hear it named as you read aloud the Scripture.
Music Option: Have the children sing “For the Fruits of this Creation,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Think Write or draw one way you take care of creation.
• Discuss why it’s important to give thanks to God and people. Ask a volunteer to read aloud the second paragraph.
Read aloud the directions for the Share Your Faith activity.
Read aloud the third paragraph. Share alk with a partner about these things.
• Ask: What was David most grateful for? • Have the children underline things that make people different from the rest of God’s creatures. Work with Words
hapter
God s Gifts
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Ask the children to name the highlighted words on page 54. Explain that really important words are highlighted so we pay special attention to learning them.
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• Read the words again. Have the children write them down. • Have them practice reading the words and definitions from page 55 to a partner, with each child reading at least once.
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Reaching All Learners
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Songs of Scripture
God Made Everyone Special
How Awesome Is Your Name
Be aware of those children who may have difficulty seeing or hearing. • Situate them so they can see the board and can hear you and see your face as you speak.
The words of the chorus to this song are taken directly from Scripture. While the children are very familiar with the word awesome, you may need to explain the word majesty and the phrase “above the heavens.”
• Accommodate any child who has other physical limitations without calling attention to him or her.
• Encourage the children to draw a throne in the clouds and write the word God on the throne.
• Allow time for the children to think about and then write or draw one way they take care of creation. • Give each partner time to share ideas. • Invite the children to share with the group another way they might take care of God’s creation this week.
God created everything from nothing. He shared with us the ability to make things to use and enjoy.
Making Use of God’s Gifts
Gift of Creation
houses, paper,
• Read aloud the heading and the first row in both columns, and ask for a possible response for the blank.
• Instruct the children to fill in the blanks with things that can be made from the gifts of God’s creation.
• As a group, go over the chart. Ask volunteers to share their responses.
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• Mary is the Mother of God. She is our Mother, too. She is also the Mother of the Church. • We pray the Hail Mary and the Rosary about the Mother of God and Jesus. • Discuss with the children the question at the bottom of the box.
A fish. We feed it and give it clean water.
Encourage the children to go to aliveinchrist.osv.com at home to learn more about Mary.
bread, cereal,
sweaters, coats,
• Point out that one or more answers have already been provided. • Allow time for the children to complete the activity.
August 15
Tell What gift of God s creation do you see in the picture How do we take care of this gift of creation
clothing,
RLCTFS05SE2_U1C01_A011a RLCTFS05SE2_U1C01_A011a RLCTFS05SE2_U1C01_A011a RLCTFS05SE2_U1C01_A011a hapter RLCTFS05SE2_U1C01_A011a
Write the name of one person or thing that you can take care of.
cocoa,
God s Gifts
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Discuss the “Tell” part of the activity as a group. Help the children determine how they would take care of this gift of creation.
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Remind the children that everything is made by God. Even though we may make something ourselves, we are using God’s creation as the source.
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Creation Walk
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Optional Activity
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections
Bodily/Kinesthetic
If possible, take the children outside. Give each child a twelve-inch circle of yarn or string.
To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Life and Dignity, pages 290–291; or Care for Creation, pages 302–303.
• Have them place their circles of yarn on the ground, and to look carefully at all the things within their circle. They may see leaves, grass, bugs, and rocks.
God created all things, and humans are special because we are made in his image. We praise and thank God for his gifts of creation and take care of what he has made.
Things We Make From It
• God chose Mary to be the Mother of his Son. Mary raised Jesus with her husband Joseph. She was a very faithful woman and followed Jesus and cared for him for his whole life.
Learn more about Mary at aliveinchrist.osv.com
What can ary help you do today
Making Use of God’s Gifts
Direct the children’s attention to the chart.
• Start the Live step of the process by talking about Mary on page 59. Then move directly to the Catholic Social Teaching feature.
• Invite the children to name all the things inside their circles that God created.
58 Chapter 1
Read aloud the “Write” part of the activity. • Have the children write down one person or thing they can take care of this week. • If time allows, have the children draw themselves taking care of the part of creation they named. Provide separate paper, crayons, and markers.
• Or, to expand the lesson, complete both pages 58 and 59, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature.
• Then, ask them to step inside their circles. Ask: What else, inside the circle, did God make? Me!
Use Songs of Scripture, Grades 1–3 CD, Track 11
54 Chapter 1
Tell the children about Mary.
ary was a special gift from God. God chose ary to be the other of esus, his on. When the ngel Gabriel told her she would be the other of esus, he said, “Blessed are you ” ary is also the other of the hurch. hat means that she is our other, too. he Hail ary is the most well known prayer about the other of God. We pray the Hail ary when we pray the osary.
i i t e a s it t i s t at ca e ma e r m t e i ts s creati
• Summarize the introductory paragraph.
Quick Review
• Teach the children the song “How Awesome Is Your Name.”
People of Faith
People of Faith
How do people use what God has created?
• Discuss the question.
• Proclaim the Scripture.
Read aloud the first paragraph.
Our Catholic Life
© Our Sunday Visitor
er i e t e t i s t at ma e e e i ere t r m t e rest s creat res
© Our Sunday Visitor
Direct a child to read aloud the question at the top of the page.
God’s Word T
© Our Sunday Visitor
God’s own image
Faith Words
Live
Live
In God’s Image
In God’s Image Humans are the most special part of God’s creation. God wants you to take care of the many gifts of creation. Here is one of David’s psalms about humans.
What is most special about God’s creation?
• Identify human beings as made in
© Our Sunday Visitor
Discover Objectives
Live
• Return to Chapter 1 for the prayer on page 60.
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As a catechist, during the Discover step you:
As a catechist, during the Live step you:
• Teach the objectives of the lesson which are identified in the Catechist Edition in several places, the overview Lesson Plan in the catechist background section and in the left hand corner of each Discover spread. The Quick Review, highlighted in the bottom right hand corner of the Discover spread, allows you to check that you have fully covered the objectives.
• Guide the children through a graphic organizer, chart, or reflection activity to synthesize what they have learned in the chapter.
• Follow the instruction in the vertical side columns which walks you through the entire lesson. Note that the activities are an integral part of the lesson. They emphasize the essential elements of Church teaching and help the children apply those truths to worship, prayer, and daily life. • Present the Catholic Faith Words which are highlighted in the text and called out in the side boxes. These words build a common language of faith and are explained with precise theological language that is developmentally appropriate. • Use the boxes framed in green at the bottom of the page that provide additional Scripture and doctrinal background, optional activities, quick tips, ways to adapt for special needs, suggestions for including music, and more.
• Hold up the Communion of Saints, and introduce the children to a Saint, Blessed, or Venerable whose life exemplifies the content of the lesson. What better way to encourage faith-filled living than through Catholic heroines and heroes? • Give the children the opportunity through a closing activity to relate their knowledge of the faith to their lives and invite them to commit themselves more deeply to what it means to be Catholic with concrete action and future steps. • Conclude with a prayer celebration. Make sure to leave time at the end of the lesson to pray with the children. If the prayer calls for it, you may want to assign parts a week ahead of time. • Send home the Family + Faith page. As the children live their faith primarily in the circle of their families, this page is an excellent resource to connect the children’s learning with their home and to form their parents in faith.
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Unique and Effective Pedagogy
Lesson Preparation Alive in Christ Catechist Editions give you everything you need for lesson planning, teaching and reinforcing faith concepts, and growing in your own relationship with Christ and his Church. Each chapter has catechist specific content provided in the planning and background pages. These are the five pages that provide Scriptural, doctrinal, and methodological background and formation. You will also find pages that address the different ways children process, understand, and learn lesson content at any given grade level. Catechist Background easy-to-understand theological background on the chapter content. The Reflect questions help connect faith concepts with the catechist’s own life experience.
Chapter 1
God’s Gifts
Key ConCept God is the Creator of all that is good. Jesus is God’s greatest gift. Jesus is the Son of God. DoCtRInAL Content • God created human beings in his own image. (CCC, 355) • Humans have a special role in all of God’s creation.
Key Concept for each lesson is clearly stated at the start of each chapter.
(CCC, 373, 357)
• Jesus is God’s greatest gift, the Son of God who became man. (CCC, 464) • Jesus was always faithful to God the Father. (CCC, 606)
Doctrinal Content correlates to paragraphs from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
tAsKs of CAteChesIs Helping children grow in a faith that is “known, celebrated, lived, and expressed in prayer” (NDC, 20). This chapter focuses on the following tasks of catechesis: • Promoting Knowledge of the Faith • Moral Formation
Tasks of Catechesis relate lesson components to one of the six Tasks of Catechesis as outlined in the National Directory for Catechesis.
Catechist Background Many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the events that have been fulfille among us, just as those who were eyewitnesses from the beginning and ministers of the word have handed them down to us…. Luke 1:1–2 LLRefle t How do the stories in Scripture help you pass on the faith? To have dominion means to have power over or to dominate. For many, these words may immediately conjure up images of oppression, corruption, and even distrust. Guns, money, and success are all images of power that most people have experienced. However, when the word dominion is used in the Bible it communicates a message that is very different from images of power that are familiar to us. The Hebrew word for dominion expresses a reality different from the one that is lived out in the world today. By giving humanity dominion over the animals and creatures of the Earth, God shares the responsibility and care of the Earth with humankind. He calls each person to be a good steward of creation. As our firs parents were given the task to care for the Garden of Eden, so you are given the task of caring for the fis of the sea, the birds of the air, and the people with whom you relate every day. The creation account in Genesis speaks eloquently of the relationship between God, creation, and humanity. Creation, including humanity, is always seen in relationship to the Creator. This story affirms the unity and the goodness of God’s creation, of which you are a part. LLRefle t How do you show respect for God’s gifts?
Catechist’s Prayer
Catechist’s Prayer offers a moment of reflection for the catechist before planning each lesson.
Lord, God of all creation, bless my efforts in helping these children grow closer to you by appreciating your many gifts. Amen.
53A Chapter 1
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Timed Lesson Plan clearly stated chapter objectives, step-by-step instructions, and a suggested time frame to complete each step of the lesson.
Lesson Plan Objectives
Process Psalm 24:1 Pray the opening prayer. Luke 1:1–2 Refle t prayerfully on the Word. • Discuss What Do You Wonder questions.
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Process Column notes prayer, Scripture, activities, and Catholic Faith Words in each step.
Materials
Invite, 10 minutes God’s Gifts Page 53
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Optional Activity Chapter Poem: “God Made Me”
Discover, 35 minutes Praise and Thanks Pages 54–55 • Identify human beings as made in God’s own image • Understand the special role humans have in all of God’s creation
• Catholic Faith Words psalms, creation • Recall God’s gifts of creation. Underline what is unique about people. Psalm 8:2, 7–9 Proclaim “The Creator and Humans.” • Share Your Faith Activity Write or draw one
pencils, pens, or markers pictures of sheep, oxen, birds, and fis
way to take care of creation.
The Son of God Pages 56–57 • Appreciate Jesus as God’s greatest gift, the Son of God who became man • Recognize that Jesus was always faithful to God the Father
• Catholic Faith Words sin, Son of God • Explain that Jesus is God’s greatest gift. • Discuss things Jesus did and ways we are alike and different from him. • Connect Your Faith Activity Find the hidden name for Jesus.
colored pencils board or chart paper • Optional Activity All Creation Is Good
Materials Column materials and online resources needed for the lesson.
Activity Master 1 (Page 53E)
Live, 15 minutes Our Catholic Life Pages 58–59
• Explain how people use what God has created.
pencils or pens
Fill in the blanks with things that can be made from the gifts of God’s creation. • People of Faith Learn about the Blessed Virgin Mary. • Live Your Faith Activity Write the name of one person or thing that can be taken care of.
paper, crayons, and markers
• Explain blessing as a prayer form.
Blessing Prayer Page 60
Rehearse “God Is a Part of My Life.” • Follow the order of prayer.
Family + Faith Page 62
aliveinchrist.osv.com • Customize and Download Assessments • Email Links to eAssessments • Interactive Student Reviews
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Download “God Is a Part of My Life.”
Chapter Review Page 63
Point out that the Catholic Families page provides chapter highlights, information on how second graders understand faith concepts, and family prayer.
CE20 Alive in Christ
Family + Faith / Chapter Review reminders to share chapter content with families and directs catechists to various opportunities for review and assessment.
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Teaching This Grade Sharing the Message with Second Graders
Online resOurces http://www.aliveinchrist.osv.com
God’s Creation Most second graders have a strong sense of cause and effect. This makes it natural for them to believe in a Creator when they see the created world. They also have a strong sense that everything has a purpose. For this reason, it is an excellent time for them to learn that everything in the natural world is a gift from God and has a God-given role or meaning. Teaching Tip: When the children talk about favorite creations of God, encourage them to think about the place of that creation in the natural order (e.g., “Why do you think God made dogs?”).
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com
You will find: • Interactive lesson planning with web specific content and additional activities • Step by step lesson instruction from printed Catechist Edition for integrated lesson planning • Custom-built assessments to download and eAssessment links • Interactive reviews that provide scores and the option to review answers • Sunday readings with background and questions of the week Go to osvparish.com
You will find: • Ask the Experts Q and A • General Catechist Helps • Community Connections and Blogs
How Second Graders Understand • Find opportunities to help second graders learn how to determine right from wrong.
Sharing the Message offers insight on the relationship between the lesson objectives and the child’s developmental level of understanding of those topics. How Grade Level Children Understand provides general background on where children this age typically are with cognitive, social, spiritual, and emotional development.
• When confli t erupts, help children this age understand that others have feelings and opinions that are different from theirs. • Many second graders are tactile learners who understand and retain concepts when they are doing things, not just listening or reading.
Online Resources are clearly labeled throughout the Catechist Edition and direct you to downloads, lesson planning tools, interactive reviews, eAssessments, and more.
“I like to make things with my hands. Art, making music, drama, and experiments help me enjoy learning.”
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Chapter Story or poem provides an opportunity to extend the Invite step of the process with additional life experience connections.
Chapter Connections
NCEA IFG: ACRE Edition correlates the lesson objectives to the domains of NCEA Information for Growth: Assessment of Children/Youth Religious Education (2013) and helps catechist measure children’s understanding and appropriation of lesson content.
Chapter Poem
Invite
”God Made Me” Use this poem to expand the chapter introduction.
• The children will relate the poem to their own lives, refle ting on how God made them different and alike from family members. • You will explain that stories help us learn more about family and about our God who made and loves us. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com Lesson Planning section for this poem.
NCEA IFG: ACRE Edition
Discover
Knowledge of the Faith
• Objective: To know and understand God’s activity in human history Moral Formation
Catholic Social Teaching identifies which principles of Catholic Social Teaching/Live Your Faith pieces connect to this chapter and provide direction for how to integrate them into the Live step of the process. These connections are also noted at point of use in the bottom band of the lesson plan.
Lectionary connection Chapter 1 highlights Lectionary-connected themes such as creation and Jesus, Son of God. If your parish aligns its curriculum to the liturgical year, you could use this chapter in connection with the following Sundays. Year A Fourth Sunday of Advent—Jesus is God’s greatest gift.
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time—Jesus and His Father Year B First Sunday of Advent—Waiting for Jesus, God’s Greatest Gift
• Objective: To be aware of the importance of a well-formed conscience for decision making
Baptism of the Lord—Son of God
Catholic Social Teaching
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time— Scripture is fulfilled.
Live
Use one of these features to introduce a principle and engage the children with an activity.
Year C Second Sunday in Advent—God as Creator
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for a complete correlation ordered by the Sundays of the year and suggestions for how to integrate the Scripture readings into chapter lessons.
• Life and Dignity, Pages 290–291 • Care for Creation, Pages 302–303
Music Options Use one or more of the following songs to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer.
• “God Is a Part of My Life,” Live Prayer, Page 60 • “For the Fruits of this Creation,” Discover, Page 55
Music Options are provided to enhance catechetical learning and in the prayer celebration. These options are also called out at point of use in the wraparound lesson plan.
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Unique and Effective Pedagogy CE21
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Unique and Effective Pedagogy
Sacred Scripture For in the sacred books, the Father who is in heaven meets His children with great love and speaks with them; and the force and power in the word of God is so great that it stands as the support and energy of the Church…. Dei Verbum, 21 Sacred Scripture from both the Old Testament and New Testament is at the heart of Alive in Christ. The children are invited to understand the importance of Sacred Scripture, as a font of Divine Revelation and the guide for their lives. The Word is always given prominent visual importance to highlight its significance, with a parchment background, an icon and logo. Children are led to know, love, and be formed by God’s Word.
Scripture in the Catechetical Process The children always pray with Scripture in the opening prayer of the Invite step and often in the prayer experience in the Live step. The practice of Scripture refle tion is an essential element in the Invite step of every lesson and the means by which we enter into the divine pedagogy.
New American Bible Revised Edition
Children are formed by this practice of reflecting on Scripture and being open to the Word of God personally speaking to them. Listening with the ear of the heart and reflecting on Scripture prepares children for practices such as Lectio Divina. Sacred Scripture is studied in the Discover step as children learn about God’s action throughout salvation history and see how Scripture is a source of Church teaching. Key Scripture accounts are presented in multiple grade levels to encourage biblical literacy, familiarity, and understanding. Throughout the Discover and Live steps the children apply the Word of God to their lived experience and acquire the behaviors and practices of a Catholic life.
Scripture Reflection CHA PTE R
Invite
I nvi te
3
God’s Commandments
Let Us Pray
the Invite children to gather in Sign of the e mak and ce spa prayer er 2: Help the children enter into sacred space by prayStep er’s the Cross. Begin with lead the d prominently displaying the Bible, lighting or turning on alou pray r ntee and have a volu pta candle, and guiding them to become quiet and still. Prom e. Bibl a from e vers psalm the group’s response.
Let Us Pray
and your you made us to know you Leader: Loving Father, desire for us. my God; “I delight to do your will, g!” Psalm 40:9 your law is in my inner bein listen for your voice to how learn All: O God, help us to to follow you. Amen. so that we will know how
of the Have the children move out Step 3: Read the passage in a slow and steady ir seats. the to k bac and ce prayer spa voice, one complete sentence at a time. lead his to es Mos ted wan God : Say freedom. People, who were slaves, to r is part hea will Step 4: Ask the question, “What did you hear God say we God The Word of . faith of to you today?” This reflection is critical in providing the ney jour es’ Mos of
Scripture
© Our Sunday Visitor
Step 1: Begin by using the directions provided on the Invite page of the lesson or you may use the recorded preparation entitled, “Mantra,” included in both the Songs of Scripture CDs.
on fire, it was although the bush was “When [Moses] looked, he had turned . . When the Lord saw that not being consumed. . bush: Moses! d out to him from the aside to look, God calle come near! I am.’ God said: Do not Moses! He answered, ‘Here where place your feet, for the from als sand your Remove nd.” Exodus 3:2b, 4–5 you stand is holy grou
children an opportunity to encounter God through his Word. It prepares the child to receive and respond in faith to God’s personal invitation. the ugh Guide the children thro
Scripture
What Do You Wonder?
CE22 Alive in Christ
• How does God speak to people today? ents • How do the Ten Commandm what help you to know God and he wants for you?
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n. process of Scripture reflectio s eye ir the e • Invite them to clos rts hea and ds min ir the n and ope m by to what God is saying to the
being silent and still. • Proclaim the Scripture. of • Maintain several moments silence. God say to • Ask: What did you hear rs to ntee volu te Invi ay? tod you
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Sacred Tradition What is necessary for the children to know so that they will develop a vibrant Catholic identity and be able to express their faith with competence, understanding, and love?
Catechism of the Catholic Church
The Church guides us, teaching that the catechetical message has “a ‘comprehensive hierarchical character’3 which constitutes a vital synthesis of the faith” (GDC, 114). The truths of the faith are organized in a hierarchy around the mystery of the most Holy Trinity, in a Christ-centered (or Christocentric) perspective. The mutual connections between dogmas, and their coherence, can be found in the whole of the Revelation of the mystery of Christ.4 ‘In Catholic doctrine there exists an order or “hierarchy” of truths, since they vary in their relation to the foundation of the Christian faith.’ 5 CCC, 90 In other words, some truths are so basic and foundational to what we believe as Catholics that they must be presented first, and then other related truths can be better understood. To help us know what is basic and foundational, the USCCB’s Subcommittee on the Catechism has identified the truths of the faith deemed essential to the formation of children. Alive in Christ has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. In salvation history, God has revealed himself to people in a systematic and gradual way, showing us more of himself as we are capable of understanding. (See GDC, 38 and CCC 54-65.) Our catechesis models this divine pedagogy and includes all of the essential elements of the faith, presenting them in a gradual and systematic way as the learner is ready to hear them. Alive in Christ organizes the essential truths around seven key themes of Catholic teaching that repeat each year within a grade level focus.
Systematic and Comprehensive The content of Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition are systematically presented in precise theological language in the lesson objectives of each lesson. The objectives are found on your Lesson Plan and at point of use where they are presented to the children. Important Catholic Faith Words are highlighted in every chapter with definitions that grow as children’s understanding does and their repetition across grades helps to promote the common language of faith. Each Unit Opener summarizes key concepts being presented and references these faith statements to the Catechism of the Catholic Church. At the back of each Student Book the Our Catholic Tradition reference section reinforces the faith basics presented in the lessons. It is referenced in your lesson plan with specific instruction on how to integrate the content into the lesson. Discover
Chapter 2
In the Beginning
(CCC 355)
n were • The first man and woma of created by God in a state original holiness, or grace. (CCC 375)
• God created us with a desire seek his truth. (CCC 2104) ut • Eternity is a time witho end and new life beyond
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to
death. (CCC 1043)
Is tAsKs of CAteChes a faith Helping children grow in
“O Lord, our Lord, earth!” Psalm 8:2
? What do you see God’s glory in the world LLReflect Where do you in the image of God? think it means to be made so you may ask, “What and evolution abound, Theories about creation Genesis begins with two creation?” The Book of is the truth concerning e detailed information Scripture versions provid accounts of creation. Both r. These two chapters give time, space, and matte he about the beginning of d scientifically, the matter how the world evolve great assurance that no his goodness. God. Creation is filled with author of all creation is ess that humans on has a dignity and goodn As a gift from God, creati ning of the story of h. Creation is the begin should respect and cheris wledged by ackno is on creati of er The wond salvation for Christians. the Creator of all. giving praise to God as a steward, you are called stewards of creation. As God made humans the praise to God when all living things. You bring to respect the Earth and praise to him is a Earth with love. Giving tend to the gifts of the ng,
unts
Faith Words the first Old Testament about God’s part of the Bible, the Hebrew relationship with Jesus was born. people before laws, histor y, It includes the People. and stories of God’s al part of a soul the spiritu forever human that lives each dignity the worth se he or she person has becau image of God is made in the
Creation Acco
diffe What are the two accounts? Testament, has book of the Old life came to be. Genesis, the first world and how beginning of the answer some accounts of the ns, and both help who created huma Both tell about rtant questions. of life’s most impo
Scripture , of Creation and the earth d the heavens the abyss when God create darkness over In the beginning, or shape, with without form s. the earth was over the water wind sweeping light. God saw and a mighty and there was light, be the Let there the light from Then God said: then separated “night.” was good. God darkness he called that the light “day,” and the called the light darkness. God
First Account
Genesis 1:1–5
and s to create order separated the water one kind of In this story, God from water and he separated land boundaries. Then 1:6–13.) er. (See Genesis created plant from anoth He stars. the and sun, the moon, fish into the seas. God created the into the sky and releasing birds God created living creatures, being on the land. ht animals into Then he broug Genesis 1:14–25.) of goodness. (See everything full created to fill the to all that he had d be like woul Yet, in addition re that d one more creatu ns, Earth, God create . God created huma share in his spirit care. him and would creation in their and placed all of male and female, 30.) (See Genesis 1:26– e and likeness ns in his own imag huma made God and choose. the ability to love with a soul and and dignity. person has value Each and every
Revelation is how Recall that Divine in self known to us God makes him ition. Point out Scripture and Trad w about kno to e com that we can creation. God through his the w which book of Ask: Do you kno Creation Bible contains the Accounts? Genesis
Unique and Effective Pedagogy CE21 esis contains two Say: In fact, Gen from which we creation accounts God religious truths nt orta imp n lear w. wants us to kno introductory Summarize the ind the group that paragraph. Rem ages present the Genesis pass hs. trut religious
Underline why
God created huma
n life.
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DoCtRInAL Content n • The two accounts of creatio the teach that God alone is are Creator and that humans his creatures. (CCC 290) image. • We were made in God’s
through all the how awesome is your name
accounts of • Recall that the two God alone is creation teach that that humans are the Creator and s. his creature means to be • Consider what it ge. made in God’s ima
counts tion Creation Ac the two crea rences between
© Our Sunday
d Catechist Backgroun
Key ConCept and God alone is the Creator we are humans are his creatures; made in God’s image.
Objectives
Dis cov er
Developmental Appropriateness
The Theory Behind It At one point or another in your family life and your ministry as a catechist, you’ve likely found yourself explaining to a child, “It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it.” The message is as important as the delivery. You can’t separate the what from the how. Similarly, doctrine and method are not two ends of a spectrum. They are interdependent. In catechesis, you can’t have one without the other. And it goes a step further, for it’s not just what we teach, and how we teach it, but how the learner receives it. “Consequently catechesis starts out with…the integral structure of the Christian message, and proceeds to explain it in a manner adapted to the capacity of those being catechized” (GDC, 112).
Alive in Christ provides you with carefully selected topics and activities that meet the developmental level of the children you are teaching as well as tips for addressing individual needs. The program includes prayers, Saints, activities, and stories that represent the
Presentation of Text D i s co v e r
A Savior is Born What did the angel tell Mary?
Faith Words the other of esus, the other of God. he is also called “ ur Lady” because she is our other and the other of the hurch. a type of spiritual being that does God s work, such as delivering messages from God or helping to keep people safe from harm
All names have special meanings. Long ago, God sent his only Son to Earth. God sent him to show all people how they should live. God chose Mary to be his Son’s Mother. His Son had a special name. God sent the Angel Gabriel to Mary in the town of Nazareth. The angel told Mary that she would give birth to a son and that she would name him Jesus, which means, “God saves.” Dra a s are ar t e A e a rie t e et Dra a circ e ar a es s t e ri
Mary t
© Our Sunday Visitor
When we teach things in a theologically accurate way, and in a manner sensitive to where the children are developmentally, we provide the best chance that they will appropriate the content—process and understand it in a way that has meaning to them and that they can then apply to their own lives.
The Practice of It
According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), developmental appropriateness includes multiple components. 1. It is important to know how children develop and learn at particular ages and stages and to create learning environments that are responsive to these general needs. 2. Because every child is unique, knowing the individual children and how they learn best is essential. 3. It is important to know what is culturally appropriate for different ages and stages of development.
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• Information is sequenced and organized in smaller “chunks” to make reading and understanding faster and easier. Our Sunday Visitor Curriculum Division Grade 2 Conformity Parish Edition CU5250 Last Modified: March 31, 2013
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• Sentences are shorter in length for younger grades. • Fonts and type sizes are set with consideration given to the reading level of the child. • Words are defined consistently at point-of-use and highlighted for easy identification. • Terms and concepts are introduced, reinforced, and then further defined in advanced ways as they develop across grades.
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diversity of cultures found in our Church and introduces these traditions at developmentally-appropriate times. Alive in Christ takes into account the experience level of today’s children with various topics and how they are used to receiving and processing those topics. So, the series is developmentally appropriate not just in what
Use of Visuals CHAPTER
kids learn at particular ages, but how they learn it. As a catechist, you can feel confident that you are giving the children the most precise presentation of Church teaching in the most developmentally appropriate way. That’s what excellent catechesis is all about.
Teaching Strategies
3
I nv i t e Not long after he began his public ministry, Jesus went to the synagogue in Nazareth on the Sabbath to read Scripture and to worship God.
God’s Commandments Let Us Pray
Scripture
Leader: Loving Father, you made us to know you and your desire for us.
“I delight to do your will, my God; your law is in my inner being!”
The Anointed One On this Sabbath, Jesus was invited to read from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah. He read about the promised one, God’s anointed. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.”
Psalm 40:9
All: O God, help us to learn how to listen for your voice so that we will know how to follow you. Amen.
“When [Moses] looked, although the bush was on fire, it was not being consumed. . . . When the Lord saw that he had turned aside to look, God called out to him from the bush: Moses! Moses! He answered, ‘Here I am.’ God said: Do not come near! Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.” Exodus 3:2b, 4–5
© Our Sunday Visitor
© Our Sunday Visitor
Scripture
After reading, Jesus said, “Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.”
1.
Underline what Jesus said God had sent him to do.
2.
Explain which of these things sounds hardest to you.
Everyone was amazed. “Isn’t this the son of Joseph?” they asked. Based on Luke 4:16–22
Reflect Imagine that you are one of the people in the synagogue, listening to Jesus. Share With a partner, make up an ending for the story that tells what you think the people did in response to Jesus’ announcement.
What Do You Wonder? • How does God speak to people today? • How do the Ten Commandments help you to know God and what he wants for you?
Then read Luke 4:28–30 to find out what really happened.
Good News 157
God’s Commandments 73
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• Fine art, illustrations, and photos advance in detail and sophistication as grades progress.
• Questions focus reading, prompt reflection, and reinforce learning.
• Graphic organizers, charts, and call outs are used to present content in easy to track and access formats.
• On page activities and teaching strategies incorporate dynamic, interactive learning methods.
• Captions are used to aid in learning, and the content and purpose of captions advance as the grades do.
• Chapter reviews use multiple formats to accommodate different learning styles.
• The text-to-art ratio is intentional and customized for each grade level.
• The Catechist Edition includes a “Teaching This Grade” page that gives details on how children at this age might understand lesson objectives.
Our Sunday Visitor Curriculum Division Grade 4 Conformity Parish Edition CU5251 Last Modified: March 26, 2013
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• Ideas for customizing content are found in the “Reaching All Learners” boxes in the chapter.
Developmental Appropriateness CE25
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Developmental Appropriateness
The Use of Images In order to communicate the message entrusted to her by Christ, the Church needs art. —Letter of Pope John Paul II to Artist (1999), 12 While educational research assures us that children make meaning through the interplay of text and images (Carney and Levine, 2002), any adult whose spent time with a young child knows that verbal and visual both tell the story. For hundreds of years the Church has used sacred art and stained glass windows to teach Catholic doctrine and provide a physical presentation of the truths of our faith. Jesus often used images when he preached, giving his disciples a glimpse into his Father’s mystery and the Kingdom.
Grade 1 Grade 6 Saints Thérèse of Lisieux and Teresa of Avila
Its use of fine art, stained glass, and Scripture illustrations created specifically for this program is another way that Alive in Christ mirrors the divine pedagogy. Educational research (Carney and Levine, 2002) and our own experience tells us that photos, illustrations, and art closely tied to text
• improve the reader’s learning and recall
Grade 3 Grade 1 The Sacred Heart of Jesus in statue and fine art
• direct the child’s attention to what’s most important on the page • make the text more understandable and memorable • help the child connect and apply what’s been learned to their lived experience. In Alive in Christ lessons, developmentally appropriate visuals—Scripture illustration, fine art, stained glass, statues, icons, photos, and accompanying captions— meet lesson objectives and build Catholic identity. You will find historically accurate, child friendly Scripture and Saint illustrations that grow in sophistication and detail as grades advance. This promotes a common visual language of faith and builds a vibrant Catholic identity.
Grade 5 Grade 2 The Parable of the Good Samaritan
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Chapter Connections Chapter Poem
Invite
”God Made Me” Use this poem to expand the chapter introduction.
The Role of Music
• The children will relate the poem to their own lives, refle ting on how God made them different and alike from family members. • You will explain that stories help us learn more about family and about our God who made and loves us.
The use of music in Alive in Christ is both intentional and purposeful.Go to The music has Lesson Planning section for this poem. been aliveinchrist.osv.com chosen to form children in the lesson content and Catholic identity. It is age appropriate Discover NCEA IFG: ACRE Edition and includes children’s voices. It has both a formative and an informative purpose. Knowledge of the Faith
Long-term Retention It has been demonstrated that the repeated rehearsal of information has a positive effect on long-term retention. Activities from the arts, such as music integrated into classroom content, can be used as prompts to recall information. Combining music with movement further enhances a child’s learning. We “encode” information through both verbal and motor activity. In other words, when we sing and do movement, we are learning in both our bodies and our minds. Sustain Attention Music and movement also sustain attention. Translating material into actions (role playing a song) helps learners not only recall a story but can also help them connect that story to a concept they have learned. Besides, moving to music is a universal response, and, with the proper disposition, can enhance prayer. Emotional and Spiritual Connection Music can also affect us on an emotional level. Who of us has not been moved by a song to feel something deep within our hearts? Music has helped form us as Catholics throughout the ages and has enabled us to both experience God’s presence and respond to him from the depths of our being.
• Objective: To know and understand God’s activity in human history Moral Formation
Lectionary connection Chapter 1 highlights Lectionary-connected themes such as creation and Jesus, Son of God. If your parish aligns its curriculum to the liturgical year, you could use this chapter in connection with the following Sundays. Year A Fourth Sunday of Advent—Jesus is God’s greatest gift.
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time—Jesus and His Father Year B First Sunday of Advent—Waiting for Jesus, God’s Greatest Gift
• Objective: To be aware of the importance of a well-formed conscience for decision making
Baptism of the Lord—Son of God
Catholic Social Teaching
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time— Scripture is fulfilled.
Live
Use one of these features to introduce a principle and engage the children with an activity.
Year C Second Sunday in Advent—God as Creator
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for a complete correlation ordered by the Sundays of the year and suggestions for how to integrate the Scripture readings into chapter lessons.
• Life and Dignity, Pages 290–291 • Care for Creation, Pages 302–303
Music Options Use one or more of the following songs to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer.
• “God Is a Part of My Life,” Live Prayer, Page 60 • “For the Fruits of this Creation,” Discover, Page 55
Music options are integrated into every lesson and can be used to celebrate prayer or enhance learning. You will find these options both at point of use in the wraparound and in the Chapter Connections page in the box titled, “Music Options.”
God’s Gifts 53D
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Our Sunday Visitor Curriculum Division Grade 2 Catechist Edition CU5113 Last Modified: May 2, 2013
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Play chapter-specific music to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download.
Songs of Scripture Music CDs To support the commitment to Sacred Scripture, an all new, original resource, Songs of Scripture Deepening Children’s Understanding of God’s Word, by John Burland and Jo Ann Paradise, unfolds one of the Scripture passages in each unit. Activities for these songs are found in bottom-band boxes in the Catechist Edition.
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to order the Songs of Scripture CDs and for more information.
Developmental Appropriateness CE27
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Developmental Appropriateness
Reaching All Learners Growth in faith is related to human development and passes through stages. Individuals develop as human beings and faithful followers of Christ in different ways according to their own pace…The Church’s catechesis—and even more so, the catechist— must take into consideration all the human factors of a particular age level in order to present the gospel message in a vital and compelling way. NDC, 48 Benefitting from the work of educators in the past decades, religious educators now have new tools in providing children the fullness of the faith in developmentally appropriate ways. Not only must we teach the faith related to children’s level of human development, we must meet the individual needs of our children. When working with any group of children, it does not take long to realize that they learn in different ways. Many have written about how to best provide strategies to address different learning styles. Dr. Howard Gardner’s research on Multiple Intelligences provides particular insight. His theory looks at eight different ways people learn. Applying his theory to your planning will help you reach each child with the Good News of salvation. Using varying strategies to meet the learning styles of the children is not the only consideration when preparing a lesson. Learning is also affected by learning or emotional disorders and mental or physical challenges. A special feature in your Catechist Edition, called, “Reaching All Learners” will provide you with tips, suggestions and proven ways to include children with different learning styles, and abilities in your lessons. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for additional resources on meeting the challenges of providing for special needs in your faith formation sessions.
Multiple Intelligences Verbal/ Linguistic
This learning occurs best through reading, writing, telling stories, and discussing ideas.
Logical/ Mathematical
This learning occurs best through problem solving, analyzing, and applying logic.
Musical
This learning occurs best through singing, listening to music, and remembering melodies.
Bodily/ Kinesthetic
This learning occurs best through physically moving, dancing, acting, and making things.
Visual/Spatial
This learning occurs best through looking at pictures, drawing, and creating.
Interpersonal
This learning occurs best through sharing about one’s feelings, talking with others, and collaborating with others on tasks.
Intrapersonal
This learning occurs best through working alone and reflecting.
Naturalist
This learning occurs best through exploring nature and living things.
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Teaching Sixth Graders Learning about Sacred Scripture
Justice and Service
Children in sixth grade are growing in their abstract thinking ability and have made great strides in their reading and writing ability. This makes sixth grade a great time to study Sacred Scripture and begin to connect the events of salvation history. Students this age are better able to understand the various senses of Scripture and how they shape our understanding of biblical texts. They can also begin to understand the importance of culture and context in accurately interpreting the message of Scripture. Astute students may enjoy discovering typological relationships in Scripture. For example, they might begin to draw connections between King David and Jesus, Eve and Mary, the Passover lamb and Jesus’ sacrifice, the manna in the desert and the Eucharist.
Students this age are sensitive to injustices. Their growth in the ability to take another person’s perspective makes it possible for them to have a greater sense of empathy for those who are oppressed. They also enjoy doing what they can to serve the poor and marginalized. Service projects, advocacy campaigns, and similar activities give them a sense of purpose and strengthen their identity as people of justice and mercy. Approach these activities with small and measurable goals. Because children this age are naturally idealistic, it’s important that we keep the goals of service and advocacy realistic so they are encouraged to continue in this work and do not become disillusioned.
Development of Catholic Identity Children in sixth grade are also becoming young adolescents, so they are entering a period of identity formation. They are beginning to ask themselves, “Who am I?” and answering that question through the activities and friends they choose and ideas they begin to internalize. This is an important time to strengthen Catholic identity through study of our faith ancestors and basic doctrines. Catechists can help students this age connect with a larger sense of Catholic identity that goes beyond their own experiences and their immediate families. However, it’s also important to come full circle and discuss how general principles of our faith apply to our daily lives and our family interactions. Sixth graders are gaining an appreciation for consistency between attitudes and actions, so we can discuss the importance of living what we believe.
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Family and Community
Living and Learning Together In the General Directory for Catechesis we are told that the “childhood religious awakening which takes place in the family is irreplaceable”6 (226). The role of the catechetical leader and the catechist in the parish is to help form and support families in this sacred journey. The Family + Faith page gives families the tools they need to talk about faith and more consciously live the faith in their homes and daily lives. The resources on this page are invaluable in providing adults the practical help they need to grow in faith themselves and to nurture the faith of their children.
FA M I LY + FA I T H LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
Your Child Learned This section summarizes key Catholic teaching covered in the chapter and introduces families to the Scripture and Person of Faith presented.
This chapter is about God’s gift of creation and the special place humans have in it because we are made in the image and likeness of God.
God’s Word
Read Luke 1:1–2 to learn more about those who have worked to tell God’s story.
Catholics Believe
• God is the Creator of all that is good. • Jesus is God’s greatest gift. Jesus is the Son of God. To learn more, go to the Catechism of the Catholic Church #256, 319, and 454 at usccb.org.
People of Faith
This week, your child met the Blessed Virgin Mary who we honor as the Mother of God and the Mother of the Church. © Our Sunday Visitor
Children At This Age This feature helps families understand the relationship between the content presented and the child’s developmental level of understanding. It provides a look at the content through the eyes of the child and equips parents with a perspective that is necessary in order to nurture their child’s faith.
YOUR CHILD LEARNED
CONSIDER THIS When was the last time that God’s creation amazed you? Do you realize creation is one of the many ways God shows himself to you? God… “is living and personal, profoundly close to us in creating and sustaining us. Though he is totally other, hidden, glorious, and wondrous, he communicates himself to us in Jesus Christ, whom we meet in the Church, especially in Scripture and the Sacraments. In these many ways, God speaks to our hearts where we may welcome his loving presence” (USCCA, p. 51).
LET’S TALK
CHILDREN AT THIS AGE
How They Understand God’s Creation Most second-graders have a strong sense of cause and effect. This makes it natural for them to believe in a Creator when they see the created world. They also have a strong sense that everything has a purpose. For this reason, it is an excellent time for them to learn that everything in the natural world is a gift from God and has a God-given role or meaning.
• Ask your child to talk about God’s gifts. Which is his greatest? (Jesus) • Talk about ways your family uses God’s gifts of creation in your daily routines.
LET’S PRAY Mary, Mother of God, pray for our family and help us always love your Son, Jesus. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Alive in Christ, Grade hapter
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The aliveinchrist.osv.com Student/Family pages extend learning, foster family faith sharing, and provide session plans and tools for home-based catechesis.
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Consider This Through the use of targeted questions that encourage reflection, adults are given the opportunity to reflect on their experience and inform that experience with the teaching of the Church. Let’s Talk Adult specific questions or directions help to facilitate discussion with the child about the lesson content. Let’s Pray This provides families with a short prayer that incorporates the key concept of the lesson. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com. The Family + Faith page sends adults to aliveinchrist.osv.com so that families can reinforce and assess their learning, along with suggestions for family discussions and ways to apply faith to family life.
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Catholic Social Teaching Catholic Social Teaching
Blessed Pope John Paul II reminded us that one of Catholic Social the fundamental tasks of the Christian family is to Teaching remember that the family is always at the service of God’s Kingdom. While the familyAbout is to “guard, reveal, and This Principle The principle of thetheir dignitylove of the communicate love,” it does so knowing that human person is rooted in our belief is not only to be shared within itself, butperson meant to inbe that every is created God’s image. It is this participation shared with the world (Familiaris Consortio, 17). Weinare divine life—not the circumstances called to reach out past our family toperson’s buildphysical relationships of the or mental abilities, ethniccommunities, origins, or social of love and justice in our neighborhoods, status—that confers dignity. The and beyond. Church’s efforts to protect and
were even born: “Before I formed you…I knew you” eremia . God created each one of us. He has a plan for our lives. He knows what he made us to be.
Life and Dignity
i How can you show respect for yourself and others?
© Our Sunday Visitor
We read in the Bible that God knew us before we were even born: “Before I formed you…I knew you” . God created each one of us. He has a Share the Good News plan for our lives. He knows what he made us to be. Write the name of someone you want to
God wants us to be nice to others, and talk about problems instead of fighting. If we see someone else being mean, we should speak up, and get help if necessary. We should try to protect others because eremia every life is important to God.
share the Good News with.
Every life is valuable to God. Because God made Write one reason why you care for him or her. each person, we should be kind and fair to everyone. We should take care of the bodies and minds God gave us and use them to do good things. ame some of the gifts and talents that make the
Live Your Faith
person special. God wants us to be nice to others, and talk about problems instead of fighting. If we see someone else being mean, we should speak up, and get help if necessary. We should try to protect others because every life is important to God.
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© Our Sunday Visitor
You can use these Catholic in a Inviteand threeseasonal volunteers to read aloud variety of ways. Every core chapter lesson the three paragraphs. has a Catholic Social Teaching Connection integrated • Ask: What does Jeremiah 1:5 say about God knowing us? into the lesson plan. A bottom band box will provide • Invite the children to respond. you with suggestions on how to incorporate the Live • Say: Explain why God considers Your Faith component with the lesson. every lifeCombining valuable. • Write the children’scan responses these components with the seasonal lessons helpon the board or on chart paper. your children connect how Catholics worship with how Catholics live.
You might think of the things you can t do, or the things you don t like about someone else. But God calls you to treat all people, yourself included, with respect. You are wonderfully made
Every life is valuable to God. Because God made each person, we should be kind and fair to everyone. We should take care of the bodies and minds God gave us and use them to do good things.
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. In this Live Your Faith component, the scriptural and doctrinal Life and Dignity foundations of the principles help the children connect The phrase wonderfully made comes from PsalmWhile 139. their faith to a life of peace and justice. peace • Verses 13–15 of this Psalm speak and justice are taught in many of the core chapters, of God’s care for the child the seven principles are intentionally treated in Live developing in the womb. • You may wish to read these verses Your Faith. to children as a prayer of Social thanksgiving. Teaching features
God created you in his own image. here is no one else e actly like you. God blessed you with many gifts and talents. God did this for everyone
Catholic Social Teachingometimes it is easy to forget this good news. We read in the Bible that God knew us before we
© Our Sunday Visitor
defend all human life at every stage Each grade level of Alive in Christ, the are seven andpresents in every condition inseparable from its belief in thethe principles of Catholic Social Teaching, articulated by dignity of the human person.
Respect Each Person
Life and Dignity
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Your catechetical leader may choose to schedule these components so that all the children will be focusing on the same principle at the same time. If you schedule 290 Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith your own sessions, you may choose to combine several of the principles and present them at one time.
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Using This Feature Lesson Connection Use this feature to enhance, or in place of, the Live section of the following chapters: Chapter 1, page 53
Chapter 5, page 97
Chapter 3, page 73
Chapter 12, page 175
Chapter 4, page 87
Chapter 20, page 267
Use this feature after the Discover section, before the Live prayer begins in the following seasonal lessons: Ordinary Time: All Saints, page 15 Christmas, page 25
Easter, We Rejoice, page 43
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This presentation of Catholic teaching builds a vibrant Our Sunday Visitor Curriculum Division Grade 2 Catechist Edition 1st pass Catholic identity and prepares us to evangelize the 2nd pass PDF pass PDF corr. pass world through faith and action as we work in service of God’s Kingdom.
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CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 2
• Our longings are part of the desire God put in our hearts to be truly happy with him. • Grace is a free, loving gift of a participation in the life of the Holy Trinity. • Faith is a belief and trust in God and the things that he has revealed to us, both a gift from God and a human choice. • The Sacrament of Baptism is the beginning of the journey of faith.
CHAPTER 3
Signs of God’s Presence
• God uses signs, such as the Burning Bush speaking to Moses, to communicate that he is with us and acting in our lives. • The Passover meal was a sign of the covenant between God and the People he saved. • The Seven Sacraments are signs of the new covenant made through the life and sacrifice of Jesus. In each Sacrament, visible signs and divine actions give grace and allow us to share in God’s work.
CHAPTER 4
The Mystery of the Trinity
• Jesus invites us into a deeper understanding of the mystery of God whom we cannot see except through him. • Those who are baptized enter into the very life of the Holy Trinity, who is love. • The Theological Virtues of faith, hope, and charity help us obey the First Commandment and live in relationship with the Trinity.
CHAPTER 5
Prayer and Worship
• King David and Jesus teach us that prayer and worship are ways to show reverence for God and to respond to his love. • When we worship God, we adore and praise him, especially in prayer and in the liturgy of the Church. • In the liturgy, we participate along with the whole Body of Christ in the saving work accomplished through Jesus’ life, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension. • The Holy Trinity is at work in the celebration of the liturgy.
CHAPTER 6
A Life of Virtue
• In his discussion on the Great Commandment, Jesus teaches that showing love for God and neighbor is an act of worship. • The Cardinal Virtues are habits acquired by human effort in cooperation with grace that help us live as God’s children. • The virtues strengthen our ability to know right from wrong, helping us act for good and grow as God’s children.
CHAPTER 7
THE CHuRCH
4
Made to Be With God
Living Image of Christ
• The word Incarnation means “coming into flesh.” It is the mystery that the Son of God became man in order to save all people. • Jesus is the Savior who came into the world to save all people lost through sin and lead them back to God his Father. • God created all people in his image and likeness, with free will, a soul, and the ability to love. • We are given God’s very life and the help to be a living image of Christ every day.
CHAPTER 8
JESuS CHRIST
3
God’s Plan for All Creation
Proclaim the Kingdom
• The Kingdom of God is God’s Reign of peace, justice, and love that exists in Heaven, but has not yet come in its fullness on Earth. • Jesus’ parables and miracles helped his followers experience and understand the meaning of the Kingdom, which Christ made present but is not yet complete until he comes again. • Christ’s words and actions, and his presence in the Seven Sacraments, teach about the need for conversion in our own lives.
CHAPTER 9
TRInITy
2
Lesson Concepts • Being made in his image and likeness, humans can praise God for his goodness and care for one another and creation. • God revealed himself in a unique way through Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. • Providence is God’s loving care for all things, his will and plan for all creation. • The gifts of the Earth used in the Seven Sacraments are signs of God’s presence and power.
Celebrating the Paschal Mystery
• By his sacrifice and Resurrection, Jesus is the Redeemer—bringing us back from the slavery of sin and everlasting death. • The Paschal Mystery is Christ’s work of Redemption through his suffering, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension. • Each of the Sacraments is a celebration of and participation in the Paschal Mystery.
The Church’s Message
• The four Marks of the Church distinguish Christ’s Church and her mission to bring Christ to the world. • The Church is an assembly, a gathering of the People of God, the Body of Christ. • The Church is one because the power of the Holy Spirit unites all the members in one faith, in the celebration of the Sacraments, and under the authority of the Pope.
The Teaching Church
• Jesus gave the Apostles a mission and the authority to spread the Good News of his Father’s Kingdom. • The bishops, in union with the Pope, are the successors of the Apostles and share in their authority to faithfully pass on what God has revealed through his Son, Jesus. • The Magisterium is the teaching office of the Church, including all of the bishops in union with the Pope. • The Pope and the bishops, guided by the Holy Spirit, protect and explain the Word of God.
CHAPTER 11
REVELATIon
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Sacred Scripture
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Tasks of Catechesis
Catholic Faith Words
People of Faith
Catholic Social Teaching
Let Us Sing Joyfully Psalm 95:1–2, 6–7; The Coming of God Psalm 98:4–9
299, 81–82, 302, 1145
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
Divine Revelation, Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, providence, stewardship
St. Hildegard
Life and Dignity, Care for Creation
You Are My God Psalm 63:2, 4–5; Martha and Mary Luke 10:38–42; The Samaritan Woman John
27, 2652, 1997, 26, 153–154, 189
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
religion, grace, faith, Messiah
St. Augustine
Life and Dignity, Call to Community
Temple of the Living God 2 Corinthians 6:16; The Burning Bush Exodus 3:1–15
1146–1147, 204, 1334, 1122–1123
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
covenant, Seven Sacraments
St. Benedict
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
The Baptism of Jesus Mark 1:9-11; John the Baptist’s Testimony to Jesus John 1:32–34
250, 426, 265, 1813
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
mystery, Holy Trinity, virtues
St. Athanasius
Rights and Responsibilities, Human Solidarity
Rejoice in the Lord Philippians 4:4–7; The Ark Brought to Jerusalem 2 Samuel 6:1–15; The Early Church Gatherers Acts 2:46–47a
2579, 2098–2100, 1082–1083, 2655
Liturgical Education, Teaching to Pray
reverence, worship, liturgy
St. Cecilia
The Dignity of Work, Human Solidarity
Walk Humbly Micah 6:8; The Greatest Commandment
2055, 2083, 1805, 1834, 1803
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
Cardinal Virtues
St. Thomas More
Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor
461, 430, 41, 355, 1877
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith
Incarnation, Savior, free will, soul
Bl. Maria Vicenta Rosal Vasquez
Life and Dignity, Option for the Poor
Around Galilee Matthew 4:23; The Parable of the Sower Luke 8:5–8
2816, 2819, 546, 547, 1127, 1129
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Missionary Initiation
Kingdom of God, parable, miracles, conversion
St. Catherine of Siena
Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor
They Will Be His People Revelation 21:3–6; The Resurrection of Jesus Luke 24:5b–9
1173, 606–607, 1085, 1115
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
Original Sin, sacrifice, Paschal Mystery
St. Paul Miki
Life and Dignity, Option for the Poor
Live in a Manner Worthy Ephesians 4:1–6; God’s House and People
775, 811, 804–805, 813
Education for Community Life, Missionary Initiation
Marks of the Church, Body of Christ
St. Robert Bellarmine
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
858, 857, 86, 85
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Education for Community Life
Magisterium, infallibility
Bl. Pope John Paul II
Call to Community, Rights and Responsibilities
4:7–29
Mark 12:28–34
God Created Mankind Genesis 1:26–27; The Visit of the Magi Matthew 2:1–12
1 Peter 2:4–5
I Am with You Always Matthew 28:18–20; Peter’s Confession about Jesus Matthew 16:15–19
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CHAPTER 12
Lives of Holiness
• To be holy is to be unique and pure, set apart for God and his purposes. • Saints are models of heroic virtue who responded to the Holy Spirit’s call, accepting God’s grace and living in his friendship. • The Church honors Mary, the Mother of God, as the Queen of Saints. The Annunciation and Assumption teach us about her obedience and faith. • Canonization is a declaration by the Pope naming a person as a Saint whose life can be a model for all Christians.
CHAPTER 13
Evil in the World
• The disobedience of our first parents and its effect for all humans is called Original Sin. • Jesus’ Death and Resurrection were God’s plan for the Redemption he had promised his Chosen People. • Mortal and venial sin are personal sins that break or weaken a person’s relationship with God.
CHAPTER 14
New Life in Christ
• Through the Sacraments of Initiation, we enter into a relationship with Christ and membership into the Catholic Church. • Through the Sacrament of Baptism, we participate in the role of Jesus as priest, prophet, and king. • Confirmation seals us with a special outpouring of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, deepens baptismal grace, and strengthens us. • The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which adults, and some children, become members of the Catholic Church through the Sacraments of Initiation.
CHAPTER 15
Forgiveness and Healing
• Christ continues to share God’s forgiving and healing love in the Sacraments of Healing. • The Sacrament of Penance, called by different names, always has four parts: contrition, confession, penance, and absolution. • In the Anointing of the Sick Christ strengthens, comforts, and forgives the sins of those who are seriously ill or close to death.
Gathered as One
• The Mass is central to Catholic life because it unites Christ’s followers more closely to him and to one another. • Real Presence is the teaching that Jesus Christ is really and truly with us in the Eucharist—Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. • In the Mass we are joined more closely to the Communion of Saints and remember in a special way those who have died. • Participation in the Mass is a duty and privilege. We are led by the ordained ministers and others serve to help us worship.
Liturgy of the Word
• The Old Testament is the first part of the Bible about God’s relationship with the Chosen People before Jesus was born. • The New Testament is the second part of the Bible about the life and teaching of Jesus, his followers, and the early Church. • Sacred Scripture is interpreted through the teaching of the Church. • The Liturgy of the Word, the first main parts of the Mass, begins with the first reading from the Old Testament and ends with the Prayer of the Faithful.
Liturgy of the Eucharist
• Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life, received in the Eucharist, offers lasting spiritual nourishment and the promise of eternal life. • Instituted at the Last Supper, the Eucharist is both a holy meal and a sacrifice during which we give thanks, remember Jesus’ sacrifice, and receive the Body and Blood of Christ. • The consecration is the part of the Eucharistic Prayer in which the priest prays the words of Jesus Christ over the bread and wine, and these elements become the Body and Blood of Christ.
The Call to Serve
• A vocation is a particular way to answer God’s call to serve him and others, whether as a member of the ordained ministry, a consecrated religious, or a lay person (married or single). • Each of us needs to learn to listen for God’s call in our own lives. • The Sacraments at the Service of Communion celebrate people’s commitment to serve God and the Church.
The Last Things
• The Last Judgment is God’s final triumph over evil at the end of time when Christ returns and judges all the living and the dead. • At the time of death, each person will be judged and God will decide where he or she will spend eternity. • We prepare for eternal life by accepting God’s grace, growing in his friendship, and serving him and one another right now. • The symbols used at a Mass of Christian Burial connect to our Baptism and Jesus’ Resurrection.
Bring the Good News
• By his words and actions, Jesus showed how the prophecy of Isaiah was fulfilled in him. • Evangelization is giving witness to the faith by proclaiming the Good News of Jesus through words and deeds in a way that invites people to accept the Gospel. • In the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist, we are given grace to become more like Christ, to love God and others better. • The Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy are actions that address the physical and spiritual needs of others.
CHAPTER 16
mORALiTy
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CHAPTER 17 CHAPTER 20
KiNGdOm OF GOd
CHAPTER 21
SACRAmENTS
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CHAPTER 18
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Sacred Scripture
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Tasks of Catechesis
Catholic Faith Words
Every Spiritual Blessing Ephesians 1:3–5; The Handmaid of the Lord
2013–2015, 2030, 971, 828
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
salvation, Fruits of the Holy Spirit, Mother of God, Annunciation, Assumption, canonization, beatification
Queenship of Mary
Dignity of Work, Care for Creation
God Proves His Love Romans 5:8, 19; Dependence on God Matthew 6:25–30a
375, 417, 571, 601, 1855–1856, 1862–1863
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
Original Holiness, sin, mortal sin, venial sin
St. Gemma Galgani
Life and Dignity, Rights and Responsibilities
We Too Might Live Romans 6:3–5; Freedom from Sin; Life in God
1212, 1241, 1294–1296, 1232
Liturgical Education, Education for Community Life
Confirmation, Sacred Chrism, Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), catechumen
St. Cyril of Jerusalem
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
Repentance for Sinners Luke 5:30–32; The Parable of the Lost Son Luke 15:11–32
1421, 1423, 1503, 1532
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
confession, reparation, contrition, absolution
St. John Vianney
Life and Dignity, Option for the Poor
Gather the People Joel 2:15b–16; Communal Life Acts 2:46–47; Church Order 1 Thessalonians
2181–2182, 1378, 1090, 1411, 2180–2181
Liturgical Education, Education for Community Life
Real Presence, Communion of Saints
St. Louis Montfort
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
103, 120–121, 124–125, 132–133, 136
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
Book of Gospels, psalms, creed
St. Jerome
Call to Community, Rights and Responsibilities
Participation in the Body of Christ 1 Corinthians 10:16; Feeding of the Five Thousand Luke 9:12–17; The Lord’s Supper Matthew 26:26–28
1419, 1382, 1377
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
consecration, transubstantiation, Blessed Sacrament
St. Clare of Assisi
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
Whoever Serves Me John 12:26; 13:4–5, 12–15; The Compassion of Jesus Matthew 9:35–38
825, 897–899, 160, 1534
Liturgical Education, Missionary Initiation
vocation, laity, consecrated religious life, vows
St. Francis Xavier
The Dignity of Work, Care for Creation
God of the Living Luke 20:37–38; The Judgment of the Nations
759, 1022, 2794–2795, 1681–1683
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Education for Community Life
Heaven, Hell, eternal life, Purgatory, Particular Judgment, viaticum
St. Stephen
Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor
2472, 436, 712–714, 905, 1392, 1394, 2447
Education for Community Life, Missionary Initiation
missionaries, Gifts of the Holy Spirit, evangelization, Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy
St. Vincent de Paul
Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor
Luke 1:30–31, 38
Romans 6:10–11
People of Faith
Catholic Social Teaching
5:14–18
True Blessedness Luke 11:27–28; Gratitude in Your Hearts Colossians 3:16
Matthew 25:31–40
Hope Is in the Lord Psalm 146:5–10; Fulfilled in Your Hearing Luke 4:16–21
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The Creation Accounts
• The two accounts of creation teach that God alone is the Creator and that humans are his creatures. • The first man and woman were created by God in a state of original holiness, or grace. • Humans are created in the image and likeness of God with a desire to seek his truth. • Eternity is time without end and new life beyond death.
CHAPTER 3
God’s Faithfulness
• Faithfulness is the loyalty and steadfastness that God shows to all humans, even when they sin. • The first man and woman brought sin and death into the world through free choice, and one of the effects of sin is separation from God. • Jesus is the “new Adam” because he makes amends for the disobedience of Adam. • Jesus is the fulfillment of the covenant.
CHAPTER 4
Journeys of Faith
• The faith stories of Abraham, Sarah, and their descendants teach us about trust in God. • We need daily prayer in order to deepen faith. • God guides our journey of faith through prayer, Scripture, the Sacraments, and the Church.
CHAPTER 5
God’s Saving Action
• God calls ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. • Moses is a model of courage for us to choose good. • The Exodus refers to the Israelites’ journey from slavery to freedom by God’s action. • Passover is the Jewish holy day that celebrates God’s leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.
CHAPTER 6
Living the Covenant
• God satisifed the needs of the Israelites by giving them manna, water, and the Ten Commandments. • The Ten Commandments are laws meant to strengthen the relationship between God and his People. • Jesus’ New Commandment has a direct relationship to the Ten Commandments. • Humans have a unique place in God’s Kingdom as we walk by faith in God through Jesus.
CHAPTER 7
Leaders for God’s People
• Anointing is the use of oil to mark someone as chosen for a special purpose. • The Israelites requested an earthly king, such as David, to lead them as God’s People, and Jesus can be compared to King David. • Many of the Psalms, poems, and hymns first used in the worship of the Israelites are included in the Old Testament. • Each of us possess gifts that could be used for the good of the Church.
CHAPTER 8
The Wisdom of God
• Wisdom is a gift from God that helps us understand the purpose and plan for our life. • The Wisdom books in the Bible offer guidance for faithful and wise living. • We are called to seek God’s wisdom in our own lives.
Prophetic Promise
• A prophet is a messenger from God who speaks the truth and calls people to justice. • The prophecies of Isaiah and Zechariah include titles that we apply to Jesus. • The word Messiah means God’s anointed or chose one who would lead God’s People. Jesus is the Messiah.
The Gospel Message
• Jesus shared through his teaching, healing, miracles, and sacrifice the Good News of salvation. • Biblical images such as People of God and Body of Christ describe the Church. • The Gospels are called the Good News of Jesus because they proclaim his life and teaching. • The Gospels, like all the books of the Bible, are divinely inspired and rooted in oral tradition.
The Early Church
• Pentecost is the feast that celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. • The Acts of the Apostles tells the story of the early Church. • Apostolic Succession is the passing down of authority and power to lead and teach the Church from the Apostles to the bishops. • The Holy Spirit continues to animate the Church today.
CHAPTER 1
Divine Revelation
• The Bible presents the story of God’s presence and his saving plan for his People. • Salvation is the loving action of God’s forgiveness of sins and the restoration of friendship with him brought by Jesus. • The Bible writers used different literary forms to tell stories of God’s presence and action. • God is faithful and wants all people to live with him forever.
TRiniTy JESUS CHRiST
3
THE CHURCH
4
CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 11
REvELATion
1
2
Lesson Concepts
CHAPTER 9
Chapter
CHAPTER 10
Unit
Scope and Sequence
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Sacred Scripture
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Tasks of Catechesis
Catholic Faith Words
People of Faith
Catholic Social Teaching
The Lord’s Word Psalm 33:4–9; Ruth and Naomi Ruth 1:1–17
50, 51–55, 110, 205
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith
Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, Divine Revelation
St. Teresa of Avila
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
Divine Majesty and Human Dignity Psalm 8:2–3a, 4–9; First Account of Creation Genesis 1:1–5; The Second Account
289, 355, 1015–1017, 375
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
Old Testament, soul, human dignity, Original Holiness, providence
St. Fiacre
Life and Dignity, Care for Creation
God is Faithful 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24; The First Sin Genesis 3:1–6; The Great Flood Genesis 3:1–24, 4:1–15, 7:1–4, 9:8–11; The Tower of Babel Genesis 11:1–9
214, 402–404, 411, 612–613
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
covenant, faithfulness, Original Sin, temptation, new Adam
Bl. Peter To Rot
Rights and Responsibilities, Human Solidarity
The Lord Is With You Deuteronomy 31:7-8; Abram’s Call Genesis 12:1–9; Abraham’s Visitors Genesis 18:1–14; 21:1–6; Joseph Genesis 37–45
145–146, 2697–2698, 162
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Teaching to Pray
salvation, Seven Sacraments, faith
St. Monica
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
His Mercy Endures Psalm 118:1–5, 14; Moses Exodus 1–3; The Exodus
2566, 2575, 2056–2057, 1150
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education
Exodus, Passover, Savior
St. Teresia Benedicta of the Cross
Rights and Responsibilities, The Dignity of Work
1334, 2062, 2052–2053, 160
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
Decalogue, natural moral law, Kingdom of God, New Commandment
St. Hilda of Whitby
Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor
695, 2579, 1177, 2003
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Teaching to Pray
anoint, Christ, psalms
St. Louis IX
Life and Dignity, Call to Community
321, 122, 1704–1706
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
wisdom
St. Thomas Aquinas
Rights and Responsibilities, Care for Creation
Emmanuel Isaiah 7:14; 9:5b–6; The Chosen One Isaiah 9:5, Zechariah 9:9
64, 711–714, 601
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith
prophet, exile, Messiah, Incarnation
Bl. Jacinta Marto
Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor
The Boy Jesus in the Temple Luke 2:41–52; The Anointed One
763, 125–127, 76, 753
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Missionary Initiation
Redeemer, Sabbath, Gospel, New Testament, Church
St. John Neumann
Call to Community, Rights and Responsibilities
2624, 2623, 77, 2473, 1092
Education for Community Life, Missionary Initiation
Holy Trinity, mission, Apostolic Succession
St.Timothy
Call to Community, Rights and Responsibilities
Genesis 2:4–25
Exodus 7:1–11:10, 12:29
Jesus Fulfills the Law Matthew 5:17–19; The Quail and the Manna Exodus 16:11–15
The Lord Is My Shepherd Psalm 23; Samuel Anoints David 1 Samuel 16:13
Give Me Wisdom 2 Chronicles 1:10–12; Solomon’s Request 1 Kings 3:4–14; The Story of Job Job 42:2–6
Luke 4:16–22
Make Disciples of All Nations Matthew 28:18–20; The Coming of the Spirit Acts 2:1–8
Scope and Sequence CE37
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Grade 6
CHAPTER 13 CHAPTER 14
Justice and Peace
• The prophets teach us about the relationship between peace and justice. • Justice is giving what is due to God and others. • Natural moral law is the understanding that God places in every human heart. • Social sins are the unjust structures that can occur as the result of personal sin.
Sin and Forgiveness
• There are three conditions necessary for a sin to be considered mortal. • Venial sin weakens a person’s relationship with God, gets in the way of practicing virtue, and, unrepented, has other effects. • We are required to obey the certain judgment of an informed conscience. • Through the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, God forgives us and restores us to his friendship.
Baptized for Mission
• Evangelization is giving witness to the faith by proclaiming the Good News of Jesus in a way that invites people to accept the Gospel. • By our Baptism, we all share in the Church’s mission to announce the Good News of God’s Kingdom. • Confirmation perfects the grace of Baptism and seals us with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. • The Eucharist unites us to Jesus Christ and one another, nourishing us to live out our faith.
Lives of Service
• Jesus’ washing of his disciples’ feet was a sign of his love and a model for serving others. • Vocation is the purpose for which God made us and the particular way a person answers his call. • Holy Orders confers a sacred power for serving the faithful by teaching, leading people in worship, and pastoral governing. • Consecrated religious life is a state of life lived in community and characterized by the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
CHAPTER 18
Sharing God’s Love
• In the Sacrament of Matrimony, a baptized man and a baptized woman make a permanent covenant of love with each other and with God. • This Sacrament helps a couple grow in love and holiness and make a home for children. • The Catholic family is called the domestic Church because it is the community of faith in the home. • The virtues of temperance, chastity, and modesty help us follow the Ninth Commandment.
CHAPTER 19
The Communion of Saints
• The Communion of Saints includes all holy persons both living and dead, those being purified in Purgatory and the blessed in Heaven, who are united in the Eucharist. • Purgatory is a state of final cleansing and purification after death and before entering into Heaven. • The Spiritual Works of Mercy are actions by which we address others’ needs of the heart, mind, and soul. • Intercessory prayer and personal reflection are a means to growing in holiness.
Christian Unity
• Jesus desires unity among his believers. The ecumenical movement looks for ways to help Christians work toward unity. • The Protestant Reformation refers to the separation from the Church led by Martin Luther. • The Catholic Church desires to unite all Christians in the Body of Christ.
A New Creation
• Apocalyptic literature is a type of writing that claims to reveal what humans cannot see. • The resurrection of the body and life everlasting are central tenets of the Catholic faith. • God promises us eternal life; virtues, Sacraments, prayers, and the Church can help us deepen our trust in his promise. • God will triumph over evil when Christ comes again in glory.
CHAPTER 16
CHAPTER 15
MoRALiTy
CHAPTER 17 CHAPTER 21
SACRAMENTS
• The Transfiguration is the revelation of Jesus in glory to the Apostles Peter, James, and John. • The practice of charity is an important part of our faith journeys. • The Precepts of the Church help the faithful to live holy and dutiful lives.
The Great Commandment
6
KiNGdoM oF God
• The Epistles are letters written by Paul and several other Apostles to the new Christian communities they established. • There are two main creeds of the Church—Nicene and Apostles’. • The Marks of the Church are the essential characteristics that distinguish Christ’s Church and her mission: one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.
The Body of Christ
5
7
Lesson Concepts
CHAPTER 20
4
Chapter CHAPTER 12
Unit
Scope and Sequence
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Catechism of the Catholic Church
Tasks of Catechesis
106–107, 811, 750
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Education for Community Life
Epistles, Marks of the Church, Body of Christ
St. Jude
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
The Greatest Commandments Mark 12:28–31; The Covenant Jeremiah 31:33–34; The Transfiguration of Jesus Matthew 17:1–8; The Greatest Commandment Matthew 22:37–40
2054–2055, 554, 1889, 2041
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
Transfiguration, morality, Beatitudes, charity, Precepts of the Church
Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati
Rights and Responsibilities, Option for the Poor
Make Justice Your Aim Isaiah 1:17; The Beatitudes Matthew 5:3-10; What the Lord Requires Micah 6:8
2304–2305, 1807, 1956, 1869
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Education for Community Life
justice, virtue, grace, peace, social sin, common good
Bl. Dorothy Chavez Orozco
Life and Dignity, Option for the Poor
Forgive Seventy-Seven Times Matthew 18:21-22; The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant Matthew
1857, 1863, 1798, 1422
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Moral Formation
sin, venial sin, mortal sin, conscience, sacramental seal
St. Margaret of Cortona
Life and Dignity, Rights and Responsibilities
905, 900, 1285, 1392
Liturgical Education, Missionary Initiation
conversion, evangelization, Eucharist, transubstantiation, Real Presence, Tabernacle
St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
Option for the Poor, The Dignity of Work
Serve One Another 1 Peter 4:10-11; The Washing of the Disciples’ Feet John 13:1–15
1337, 1533, 1877, 1552–1553, 915
Liturgical Education, Education for Community Life
vocation, Holy Orders, Magisterium, consecrated religious life
St. Ignatius Loyola
Call to Community, The Dignity of Work
One Flesh Matthew 19:4–6; The Wedding at Cana John 2:1–10
1601, 1641, 2204, 2521–2524
Liturgical Education, Moral Formation
Matrimony, domestic Church, temperance, chastity, modesty
St. Henry II
Call to Community, The Dignity of Work
Called to Be Holy Romans 1:7–8; Communal Life Acts 2:42–47
946–948, 961, 1030, 2447, 2634
Teaching to Pray, Education for Community Life
Communion of Saints, Purgatory, Corporal Works of Mercy, Spiritual Works of Mercy, intercession
St. Mary Faustina Kowalska
The Dignity of Work, Human Solidarity
Unity of the Spirit Ephesians 4:3–6; The Prayer of Jesus John 16:32–33,
813, 817, 814–815, 820
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Education for Community Life
schism, Protestant Reformation, ecumenism
St. Charles Borromeo
Call to Community, Human Solidarity
1027, 759, 988, 1810–1811, 671
Promoting Knowledge of the Faith
apocalyptic literature, Resurrection, new creation
St. John the Evangelist
Life and Dignity, Care for Creation
Sacred Scripture The Communal Life Acts of the Apostles 2:42–44
Catholic Faith Words
People of Faith
Catholic Social Teaching
18:23-35
You Have Been Called 1 Peter 2:21; Philip and the Ethiopian Acts 8:26–39
17:11, 20–21
Waiting for the Coming of the Day of God 2 Peter 3:11b–12a, 13, 18; The New Heaven and the New Earth Revelation 21:1–4
Scope and Sequence CE39
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Endnotes: 1. Cf. CCC 426-429; CT 5-6; DCG (1971) 40. 2. CCC 429. 3. cf. CT, 31; CT 31 which expounds the integrity and organization of the message; cf. DCG (1971) 39 and 43. 4. Cf. Vatican Council I: DS 3016: nexus mysteriorum; LG 25. 5. UR 11. 6. CT 68.
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Feasts Contents at a Glance
Opening Lesson A New Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The Church Year Feasts and Seasons Ordinary Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary . . 9 Advent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Anticipation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Season of Peace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Lent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Time for Scrutiny . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Easter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Triduum: God Saves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Easter: Witnesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Ascension: Season of Peace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Pentecost: The Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Feasts Contents at a Glance CE41
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Opening Lesson
A New Year
Key ConCept The key concept for each lesson is clearly stated at the start of each chapter. DoCtRInAL Content The doctrinal content for each chapter will be found in this section. It will show how the chapter correlates to paragraphs from the Catechism of the Catholic Church. tAsKs of CAteChesIs The six tasks of catechesis are outlined in the National Directory for Catechesis. The relevant tasks of catechesis for a chapter will be found in this section.
Catechist Background “For I handed on to you as of firs importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures; that he was buried; that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures…For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead came also through a human being. For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life.” 1 Corinthians 15:3–4, 21–22 LLRefle t How do I live in Christ Jesus? The Catechist Background includes a short essay that provides easy-tounderstand theological background on the chapter content for both novice and experienced catechists. The catechetical process of Alive in Christ mirrors the divine pedagogy— the gradual and relational way God teaches us so that we can know him in his truth, be guided by the Holy Spirit to respond with faith and love, and accept the gift of new life in Christ. Each lesson encourages this personal and ongoing relationship, beginning with God’s invitation through Sacred Scripture. This leads children to refle t on his Word, deepen their understanding of our Sacred Tradition, and respond with a lived faith within the home and in the community. Alive in Christ incorporates the most trusted research on how children learn and communicate. Topics are presented at important developmental “windows”—ages when research in child development tells us that learning about a particular topic would be most effective. Sixth graders are growing in their abstract thinking, reading, and writing abilities. This makes sixth grade a great time to study Sacred Scripture and begin to connect the events of salvation history. In Chapter 1, they will learn that the Bible presents the story of God’s presence and his saving plan. LLRefle t In what ways do I hear God’s Word in my life?
Catechist’s Prayer Lord, thank you for calling me to the ministry of catechesis. It is a great privilege and an awesome responsibility to echo your Word.
1A Opening Lesson
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I nv ite
Opening Lesson
A New Year
Ask children how they feel when they are invited somewhere. Point out the Invite heading on the page, and explain that every lesson will begin with an invitation.
Let Us Pray Leader: Loving God, you created all that exists and have a plan for each of us. Guide us to hear your voice and know your will.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light for my path. I make a solemn vow to observe your righteous judgments.”
Let Us Pray Introduce the children to the prayer space and invite them into it. Lead them in the Sign of the Cross. Read aloud the leader’s prayer and the Psalm verse. Prompt the children’s response.
Psalm 119:105–106
All: We praise you, O God, for lighting the way and making yourself and your plan known to us. © Our Sunday Visitor
Invite
Scripture “For I handed on to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures; that he was buried; that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures…For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead came also through a human being. For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life.”
Have the children move from the prayer space back to their seats.
1 Corinthians 15:3–4, 21–22
Scripture Explain that in accordance with means “in conformity with.” Guide the children in reflecting on Scripture. What Do You Wonder? • What does it mean to live in Christ? • How do we hear God’s Word today?
• Invite them to close their eyes and concentrate on the message in this passage. • Proclaim the Scripture.
A New Year 1
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• Ask: What message did you hear in this passage? • Invite volunteers to share.
Reflecting on Scripture
What Do You Wonder?
Each chapter in Alive in Christ begins with a focus on Sacred Scripture. On the Invite page, the children are called to open their minds and hearts to God’s message.
Point out the picture and ask what would happen if there were no lights to guide the campers. Discuss how God’s Word lights our way in life.
• The Psalm verse and New Testament excerpt set the theme for the chapter. The passage from 1 Corinthians is especially appropriate for this opening lesson, as it is about living according to Sacred Scripture. • For more information on the use of Sacred Scripture throughout the chapters, refer to page CE22.
Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about in their relationship with God.
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Discover
Discov er
Sixth Grade
Objectives • Chapter objectives relating to this Discover section are clearly stated here • Begin to understand what is going to be learned this year, especially about the story of salvation
A new year is ahead of you. It’s sort of like a journey. This symbol lets you know that the story or reading that follows is from the Bible. In every lesson you will spend time with God’s Word in Scripture. You will visit Egypt, the ancient land of the pharaohs.You will travel through the Holy Land, where kings and prophets lived and where Jesus walked the Earth. And you will set sail with the Apostles as they proclaim the Good News of Jesus to the world. All of this journeying is to help you grow closer to Jesus and the Church.
You will sing songs to praise God and celebrate our faith. During the year, you’ll explore the feasts and seasons of the Church year, and you will meet many important Biblical figures as well as Saints of the Church. Every chapter includes tools to help you interact with what’s written and better understand what’s being taught. You may be underlining, circling, writing, matching, or more. © Our Sunday Visitor
Sixth Grade
Where will this year take us?
You will begin and end each lesson with a prayer. Each time you are together, you have the chance to thank God, ask for his help, pray for the needs of others, and praise God for being God. God the Holy Spirit helps you pray.
Ask the children to define the word discover. Point out that the Discover pages in this book will help them find out important things about their faith. Explain that the children will use this book to deepen their relationship with God. • Have the children investigate the book by looking at titles in the table of contents.
The story of God’s People recorded in the Bible took place in the Holy Land and its surroundings.
• Let them preview the illustrations and headings. • Ask the children to report on what they will learn. Point out the icons on the page and invite the children to speculate on what they signal. Use the text to explain the icons and to preview other course content. • As you define the icons, reinforce the importance of Scripture, prayer, and songs in learning about God. Call attention to the photograph. • Ask the children to explain how it relates to what they will be studying.
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Quick Tip Lesson Structure The chapters in this book will all follow the same three-step process: • Invite begins with a prayer that includes Sacred Scripture and calls the children to be open to God’s Word. • Discover presents Scripture, Church teachings, and Catholic practices with developmentally appropriate language and contain activities to reinforce and apply learning. • Live connects the children’s faith knowledge with the ways that Catholics worship, live, pray, and serve in community. It also contains the concluding prayer for the chapter. For more information on the lesson process, see pages CE18–CE19.
2 Opening Lesson
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Discovering Our Roots
Discovering Our Roots
Point out that the word roots means “heritage” in this context. • Ask, What are your roots of faith?
This year you will be concentrating on the history of God’s relationship with his People and the salvation that he has offered over the ages. Words highlighted in yellow are Catholic Faith Words. They are important for your understanding of the lesson and our faith. These words are also defined in boxes on the sides of the pages.
• Point out that just as families study their ancestors, we study our ancestors in faith.
© Our Sunday Visitor
You will recall that God is faithful and true to his People throughout history.You will become reacquainted with these people from the Bible, and you will have the chance to meet many new ones.You will learn more about God’s Kingdom and his love for his People. Your family and parish will support you as you discover more about your faith and grow as a member of the Church. Three times a chapter you’ll see green words like the ones below.You’ll take a break to think about your faith and special people in your life; make connections to what you do at home, with friends, and at Church; and see how living your faith can make a difference.
Moses brings the Ten Commandments to the Israelites.
Faith Words salvation the loving action of God’s forgiveness of sins and the restoration of friendship with him brought by Jesus
• Point out the illustration and recall that Moses is one of our ancestors in faith. Read aloud the first two paragraphs to explain what salvation history is. Ask volunteers to finish reading the text aloud. Work with Words Call attention to the word salvation in the first paragraph and the Catholic Faith Words definition on the side of the page. Tell the children that they will learn many new words this year.
Underline one thing you want to learn more about this year.
Reflect What do you know about the Kingdom of God? What did Jesus teach about the Kingdom?
• Invite the children to underline one item on the page that they want to know more about.
Share In small groups share your thoughts. 3
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Catechist Background Focus on Sixth Graders Alive in Christ presents key themes of Catholic teaching in a developmentally appropriate sequence. For more information on how the series framework supports faith development, see pages CE8–CE9. • The Grade 6 Focus is the Word of God in the Old Testament. • This year’s lessons have been designed to address the children’s growing ability to think abstractly and to connect the events of salvation history. • For more information on the abilities and perspectives of the children you are teaching, see pages CE9 and CE29.
5/22/13 3:16 PM
Point out the Share Your Faith feature. Tell students that this feature and others like it will help them think about their faith and share it. • Read aloud the directions. • Allow time for the children to work independently. Have groups of children share their ideas.
Quick Review This book will teach about salvation history. It contains Scripture, prayers, songs, and exercises to help us learn.
A New Year 3
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Discover
Discov er
Sacred Scripture
Objectives • Learn that Sacred Scripture is the inspired Word of God written by humans • Be able to examine the parts of the Bible
Sacred Scripture
Ask volunteers to read aloud the first four paragraphs to show what sorts of events are conveyed in the Bible. • Tell the children that the Church assembled a canon of books that tells our salvation story; the Catholic Bible is a set of books written at many different times by many different people.
Important events of salvation history in the Old Testament include:
• • • •
God’s promise to Abraham
•
the establishment of the Kingdom of Israel under David.
the Exodus the covenant given to Moses the Israelites’ entering the land of Canaan, and
The Pentateuch The first five books of the Bible— Genesis, Leviticus, Deuteronomy, Exodus, and Numbers.
The Prophetic Books include Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Baruch, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.
Another name for the Bible is Sacred Scripture. It is the inspired Word of God written by humans. The Catholic canon, or authorized version, of the Bible contains seventy-three books—forty-six in the Old Testament and twenty-seven in the New Testament.
The Old Testament The first part of the Bible is about God’s relationship with the Hebrew people before Jesus was born. It includes the laws, history, and stories of the God’s People.
The Historical Books
© Our Sunday Visitor
Explain that we use words to teach important ideas. God also uses words to teach us.
The history of salvation begins with creation, reaches its highest point in Christ, and lasts until the end of time. It is the story told in the Bible—the story of God’s saving actions for humans—and lived out today.
In the New Testament, salvation history is seen as coming together in the life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus. The Church continues to participate in salvation history.
include Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Tobit, Judith, Esther, 1 Maccabees, and 2 Maccabees.
The Wisdom Books are Job, Ecclesiastes, Sirach, Psalms, Song of Songs (Ecclesiasticus), Proverbs, and Wisdom.
The Old Testament Read aloud the text to acquaint the children with the Old Testament. • Emphasize that this part of the Bible tells about before Jesus was born. • Point out the boxes that show the different types of books in the Old Testament. Tell the children that this book will have many tables and boxes to help them learn.
4 Opening Lesson
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Liturgy Link Bible Readings The Old Testament and New Testament are the core of the Liturgy of the Word. However, the priests, deacons, and readers do not read directly from the Bible they read from the Lectionary and Book of Gospels, which contain passages from the Bible. • Typically, the first reading on a Sunday is from the Old Testament, followed by a responsorial Psalm. The next reading is usually from a New Testament Epistle and the last is always from the Gospels. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Sunday readings, Scripture background, questions of the week, and seasonal resources.
4 Opening Lesson
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The New Testament
The New Testament The second part of the Bible tells of God’s love for people after the coming of Jesus. It is about the life and teaching of Jesus, his followers, and the early Church. The Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are the first four books of the New Testament. They tell about Jesus’ life on Earth and how he died and rose to save us.
Invite volunteers to read aloud the five paragraphs of text.
Faith Words Sacred Scripture another name for the Bible; Sacred Scripture is the inspired Word of God written by humans
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The Acts of the Apostles tells how the Church grew after Jesus returned to his Father.
• Point out that the readings that we hear during Mass are from both the Old Testament and New Testament. The Gospel that we hear at Mass is always from one of the four Gospels.
The Epistles, or letters, tell Christ’s first followers how to live their faith. One reading at Mass comes from a letter of Saint Paul or another early Church leader. The Epistles include Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, and Jude. The Book of Revelation is an example of apocalyptic literature. Apocalyptic means “revealed” or “unveiled.” Apocalyptic writings reveal the secrets of Heaven or the future by an angel or the Risen Christ. They were written to give hope to a suffering people. This form of writing began in Old Testament times and continued through the first century a.d.
• Reinforce that this part of the Bible is about Jesus and the early Church.
• Explain that in Biblical times, one of the main ways to communicate was with letters. The books of Letters were written by Jesus’ disciples to members of the early Church. They explain the lessons that Jesus taught.
Letters from early Church leaders were sent to Christians in several lands.
• Point out that the Book of Revelation reveals what the end of time will be like.
Identify a Scripture Story Is there a Scripture
Explain that activities like this one are throughout the book. They will help the children think about aspects of their faith.
story that has had a special meaning to you on your journey of faith? Summarize that story to a partner.
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Quick Tip Sacred Tradition
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• Discuss the different types of stories that are in the Bible. • Allow time for the children to share their Scripture story with a partner.
Part of the richness of the Catholic faith resides in Sacred Tradition, accrued through two millennia of Church history. • Every lesson in this book presents truths of the faith. • At the back of the Student Book, the Our Catholic Tradition reference section expands on the lesson contents. Your lesson plans will contain specific references to this reference section when appropriate. • You may want to have the children explore this section. For more on Sacred Tradition, see page CE23.
Quick Review The Bible has two parts. The Old Testament tells about God’s People before Jesus was born. The New Testament tells about Jesus and the early Church.
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Live
L iv e
Our Catholic Life Each chapter in your book has an Our Catholic Life section. It builds on what’s in the chapter and focuses in a special way on what it means to be Catholic. Text, images, and activities help you better understand how to grow closer to Jesus and the Church.
Our Catholic Life Point out the Live heading on the page. • Explain that each chapter in this book has a section that will help the children live as good Catholics. Read the text to further explain this.
For each action listed in the left column, add an example of how you can do it. One has been done for you.
Growing as Disciples of Jesus Know more about our faith Understand and take part in the Sacraments
• Read the directions and have the children complete the activity.
Live as Jesus calls us to
• As a group, share ways of growing as a disciple.
Be an active member of the Church
Talk and listen to God in prayer
• Reinforce that the children will learn new ways of growing as a disciple throughout the year.
Spread the Gospel through how we live and act with our families, friends, and others
People of Faith
People of Faith
You will also be introduced to People of Faith, holy women and men who loved God very much and did his work on Earth. They are officially recognized by the Church as Venerables, Blesseds, or Saints.
Read aloud this paragraph. • Help the children understand that Venerables and Blesseds are holy people who have not yet been declared Saints. Tell the children that they will learn about Saints and other holy people in this feature.
Name someone who is model of faith for you. Explain why.
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Allow time for the children to work independently on this activity. • Ask volunteers to share their answers, if they wish.
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Help others know Jesus through our words and actions
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Catechist Background Six Tasks of Catechesis As a catechist, you are charged with six fundamental tasks as contained in the National Directory for Catechesis. • Each of these tasks corresponds to an aspect of faith in Jesus. They are: Promoting Knowledge of the Faith, Liturgical Education, Moral Formation, Teaching to Pray, Education for Community Life, and Missionary Initiation. • For more information on these tasks, refer to pages CE14–CE15.
6 Opening Lesson
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Li v e
Let Us Pray Pray Together
Let Us Pray
Pray Together
Read the first paragraph aloud to the children.
Every chapter has a prayer page. Over the course of the year, you’ll pray in different ways.You may proclaim God’s Word, pray for the needs of others, call on the Saints to pray for us, and praise God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in words and song.
• Explain that every chapter will end with prayer.
Gather and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
Leader: Blessed be God.
Prepare
All: Blessed be God forever.
Assume the role of leader.
Leader: Let us pray.
Show the children where their responses are on the page.
Bow your heads as the leader prays.
Leader: A reading from the second letter of Timothy.
Read 2 Timothy 3:14–16.
The word of the Lord. All: Thanks be to God.
Rehearse “Alive in Christ,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
© Our Sunday Visitor
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Gather
Sing “Alive in Christ”
We are Alive in Christ, We are Alive in Christ He came to set us free We are Alive in Christ, We are Alive in Christ He gave his life for me We are Alive in Christ, We are Alive in Christ
Lead the children into the prayer space. • Begin with the Sign of the Cross.
© 2013, John Burland. All rights reserved.
• Invite the children to be still and listen to the reading.
Pray Follow the order of prayer on the student page. Conclude by having the children return to their seats while they sing “Alive in Christ.”
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Songs of Scripture Songs for Deepening Children’s Understanding of God’s Word In addition to all of the chapter-specific songs available for download, a program component, Songs of Scripture: Songs for Deepening Children’s Understanding of God’s Word by John Burland and Dr. Jo Ann Paradise helps celebrate faith and support catechesis. • Two CDs, Grades 1–3 and Grades 4–6, offer songs that teach, reinforce, or unfold the meaning of Scripture stories. • These and other songs are available through aliveinchrist.osv.com and are searchable by grade and chapter level.
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Family + Faith
FA M I LY + FA I T H
Distribute the page to the children or parents/adult family members. Point out the chapter highlights, insights on how sixth graders understand concepts, the opportunity for the adults to reflect on their own experience and faith journey, and the family prayer.
YOUR CHILD LEARNED
CONSIDER THIS
This page encourages you to share your faith and identify the many ways you are already live the faith in daily family life.
A question invites you to reflect on your own experience and consider how the Church speaks to you on your faith journey.
LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
In this section, you will find a summary of what your child has learned in the chapter.
Scripture
This introduces you to the opening Scripture, and provides direction for more reading.
Catholics Believe
Bulleted information highlights the main points of doctrine of the Chapter.
People of Faith
Children At This Age helps parents become aware of how their child comprehends what was taught and suggests ways to help the child gain a deeper understanding of the material. Consider This invites parents to ponder some of their own experiences and listen as the Church speaks to their personal journey of faith. Let’s Talk offers parents developmentally appropriate questions that lead to discussion of the week’s lesson. Let’s Pray provides a short family prayer based on the Person of Faith featured in the lesson. Online Resources offers multimedia tools to encourage family interaction and reinforce the lesson at home.
Here you meet the holy person featured in People of Faith.
CHILDREN AT THIS AGE
LET’S TALK
This feature gives you a sense of how your child, at this particular age, will likely be able to understand what is being taught. It suggests ways you can help your child better understand, live, and love their faith.
Here you will find some practical questions that prompt discussion about the lesson’s content, faith sharing, and making connections with your family life.
How They Understand Sixth graders may find themselves at the pinnacle of the elementary school or the lowest level of the middle school pecking order. Eleven and twelve year olds are transitioning into puberty, with its rapid physical and emotional changes.
• What is your family looking forward to this year? Is there a Scripture passage that speaks to your hopes and goals?
Children of this age are usually very attached to their peer group and are concerned with social conformity. You may have to help your child see the value in nonconformity when it supports their beliefs and values. They are capable of reaching beyond their personal concerns to be of service and to act for justice. At this age your child does wonder about the future and sometimes can be worried or anxious. Show them in words and example that they can trust in God to take care of them.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Your Child Learned is a summary of the Catholic teaching that was covered in the chapter and introduces families to the Scripture and the Person of Faith that was presented.
LET’S PRAY Encourages family prayer connected to the example of our People of Faith. Holy men and women, you model faithfulness and trust in God. Pray for us as we journey through this year. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
8 Opening Lesson
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Optional Activity Explore the Student Book In addition to what is presented in this opening lesson, there are many other features that help you present the Catholic faith to the children. Ask them to find the following features in their books. • The Church Year: Children learn about Church feasts and seasons. • Unit Openers: Preview the doctrinal theme with photos and art that convey the richness of our Catholic Tradition. • Catholic Social Teaching/Live Your Faith: Introduce the children to important teachings of Jesus and the Church that help us live Jesus’ New Commandment to love as he loved.
8 Opening Lesson
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The Church Year Overview Ordinary Time: The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9A
The children will: recognize that in Baptism, we become God’s own sons and daughters, and are called to dedicate our lives to him explore practical ways to make Ordinary Time about living out one’s dedication Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Call to Family, Community, and Participation Solidarity of the Human Family Advent: Anticipation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15A
The children will: reflect on the Second Coming and how Advent helps us prepare for it discover ways to prepare for the Second Coming Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Life and Dignity of the Human Person Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person Christmas: Season of Peace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21A
The children will:
discover God’s actions of saving his People throughout history Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Life and Dignity of the Human Person Option for the Poor and Vulnerable Easter: Witnesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37A
The children will: describe the meaning of a witness and relate it to Easter understand the Resurrection as the central belief of the Church’s faith Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Call to Family, Community, and Participation Care for God’s Creation Easter: Ascension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41A
The children will: explore the story of the Ascension discuss mission Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Call to Family, Community, and Participation Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
understand the meaning of peace and why it is important at Christmas
Easter: Pentecost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45A
describe where peace comes from
The children will:
Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Call to Family, Community, and Participation Solidarity of the Human Family Lent: Time for Scrutiny . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25A
The children will: explore Lent as a time to turn away from evil and sin explain the Lenten scrutinies Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person Option for the Poor and Vulnerable Easter: Triduum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31A
reflect on Pentecost as an extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the beginning of the Church explore the Gifts of the Holy Spirit Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person The Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers Check out the activities and resources available for the seasons of the Church Year at the following websites. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com and click on the Resource Library tab and select a season. Go to teachingcatholickids.com and click on the current month’s newsletter.
The children will: explain the Triduum The Church Year Overview CE43
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Ordinary Time:
The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Lesson objectives • Recognize that in Baptism, we become God’s own sons and daughters, and are called to dedicate our lives to him • Explore practical ways to make Ordinary Time about living out one’s dedication
environment Prayer table White cloth Statue or image of Mary Bible with reading marked Bible stand • Set the prayer table with the white cloth, Bible, Bible stand, and statue or image of Mary • Prepare name cards for the children in advance, and distribute them at the beginning of the celebration. music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Let It Be Done” “Mary, a Woman of Faith” “Mary, Our Mother” “Immaculate Mary” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Call to Family, Community, and Participation Pages 292–293 • Solidarity of the Human Family Pages 300–301
Catechist Background Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, as he chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and without blemish before him. Ephesians 1:3–4 LLRefle t How do you use your spiritual blessings to emulate Mary’s spirit of dedication? Among the extraordinary persons and events the Church honors during Ordinary Time, the feasts associated with Mary stand out. Though we know little about Mary’s life, the Church remembers her life and piety through these feasts. Marian feasts help us better understand the details of Mary’s life that are known to us through Sacred Tradition. The feasts of the Annunciation and the Visitation celebrate the events from the Gospel according to Luke. Many details of Mary’s life, such as the names of her parents and her dedication as a child to service in the Temple, appear in religious art and popular devotion. The details of the dedication story parallel the Old Testament story of the young prophet Samuel, told in the First Book of Samuel. What is important about this event, celebrated in the Feast of the Presentation of Mary on November 21, is not its factual truth but what it says to us about the spirit of dedication Mary showed throughout her life—a spirit we are called to emulate. LLRefle t What characteristics of Mary’s life do you most want to celebrate and emulate?
Catechist’s Prayer Lord, strengthen me to grow in dedication and devotion, to emulate Mary and her willingness to say “yes” to all that you asked of her. Help me to live my life in your service. Amen.
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I nv ite
Ordinary Time
The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Let Us Pray Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Then, read aloud the leader prayer and have a volunteer proclaim the verse from Zechariah. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Let Us Pray Leader: Holy Mary, Mother of God pray for us, as we seek to dedicate our lives to your Son, Jesus.
“Sing and rejoice, daughter Zion! Now, I am coming to dwell in your midst [says] the Lord.” Zechariah 2:14
All: Amen. © Our Sunday Visitor
Invite
Say: We were joined to Christ in Baptism and became adopted children of God. Our mission in life is to live out our identity as his sons and daughters. Listen carefully to the words of Saint Paul to the early Christians about living as God’s adopted children.
Scripture “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, as he chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and without blemish before him. In love he destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, in accord with the favor of his will, for the praise of the glory of his grace that he granted us in the beloved.” Ephesians 1:3–6
Scripture
What Do You Wonder? • What are spiritual blessings?
Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection.
• What does it feel like to know you are blessed?
• Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage. 9
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Lectionary Connection
• Proclaim the Scripture. 6/13/13 8:0 AM
• Maintain several moments of silence. • Ask: What did you hear God say to you today?
Ephesians 1:3–6
• Invite volunteers to share.
This Gospel reading is proclaimed on the Second Sunday after Christmas, in all three Church year cycles.
What Do You Wonder?
• This Scripture was written to Gentiles who had recently converted to Christianity. • The letter encourages them in their transformation and socialization into God’s purposes.
Say: In the reading, Saint Paul is very descriptive about how much we are blessed by God. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about spiritual blessings.
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Discov er
Discover
Presentation of Mary
Presentation of Mary Say: In Baptism, we were brought to God by our parents so we would also become God’s own sons and daughters. Mary, too, was dedicated to God by her parents. We celebrate that on the feast of her dedication in the Temple.
Ordinary Time The life and ministry of Jesus are the focus of Ordinary Time. • In Ordinary Time, the priest wears green vestments. • Mary and the Saints are also remembered throughout the year in what is known as the sanctoral cycle. • The priest wears white vestments on Mary’s feast days.
Dedication Mary has long been honored as a model of faith. We do not know the details of Mary’s childhood. But we do know that when she was asked by God to be the Mother of his Son, she said “yes.” Her “yes” changed the world. Why was Mary so willing to do as God asked? The Angel Gabriel addressed Mary with these words: “Hail, Mary, full of grace.” Mary was filled with God’s grace. Her heart was open to fully receive God’s life and love.
• Ask the children to offer examples of how Mary showed dedication to God and others in her life.
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Write the word dedication on the board or on chart paper, and invite the children to define it in their own words.
On November 21 in Ordinary Time, the Church celebrates the feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary’s parents were religious people who practiced the Jewish faith. One Jewish custom was to present a young child in the Temple and dedicate him or her to God’s service. According to tradition, Anne and Joachim took Mary to the Temple for this ceremony.
Read aloud the paragraph. Music Option: Play or sing with the children “Mary, A Woman of Faith,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Ask a volunteer to describe what is happening in the illustration at the bottom of the page. 10 The Church Year
Dedication Explain to the children that the Church honors Mary in a number of ways throughout the Church year. • Ask volunteers to name some Marian feasts with which they may be familiar. • Ask another volunteer to read aloud the remaining paragraph. Review with the children the information in the side column.
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Catechist Background Mary Procession During May, often known as the month of Mary, Catholics have traditionally celebrated Mary’s commitment by honoring her as the Queen of Heaven and the Mother of God. These services may take place inside or outside. May processions include Marian hymns and the crowning of Mary’s statue with flowers as a symbol of her devotion to God. The flowers are usually replaced throughout the month to keep them fresh.
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This grace and Mary’s dedication to God helped her to do his will. The dedication ceremony in the Temple was just the beginning of her journey of faith. As she grew up, she must have spent much time praying and serving others. This made her dedication to God grow even stronger. You have been dedicated to God through your Baptism. You, too, are called to a life filled with grace, a life of prayer and service. Mary’s example will help you as you grow in God’s friendship and grace. Mary said “yes” to being the Mother of God. God asks you to say “yes” to him in your daily life. He asks you to dedicate yourself to him as Mary did.
© Our Sunday Visitor
LLWho has encouraged you to say “yes” to God? LLWhat are some practical ways to dedicate yourself to God?
Dedication, continued Find Meaning To learn more about what is written in the Bible about dedication, read one of the following passages on each day of the coming week. Write what meaning you get from each passage.
Have a volunteer read aloud the three paragraphs that complete this section. • Ask: Who has encouraged you to say “yes” to God?
1. Song of Songs 8:6–7
• Have the children share responses with a partner.
2. Isaiah 44:1–5
• Ask: What are some practical ways for you to dedicate yourself to God?
3. Colossians 3:1–4
• Have the children form small groups to discuss the question. Music Option: While the children work with their groups, play “Mary, Our Mother,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
4. Acts 4:32–35
5. Matthew 11:25–30
6. Luke 10:38–42
Read aloud the directions for the activity. 7. John 17:20–26
• Make sure that the children know how to locate the Bible passages. If they are unsure about finding passages, give them a quick review.
Ordinary Time 11
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Catholic Social Teaching
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• Tell the children to bring their responses to a future session to facilitate a discussion on the readings.
Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Call to Family, Community, and Participation, pages 292–293; or Solidarity of the Human Family, pages 300–301. • To expand the lesson, complete page 11, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to the prayer on page 13.
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Discov er
Live People of Faith
People of Faith
You may choose to use this page to create a separate lesson or to expand one at a later date.
Chapter
Feast Day
Person Saint Hilda of Whitby
November 17
2
Saint Fiacre
September 1
3
Blessed Peter To Rot
July 17
Point out to the children that each of the people of faith listed on this page showed obedience to God’s will in the choices they made and the paths they followed.
4
Saint Monica
August 27
5
Saint Edith Stein
August 9
6
Saint Teresa of Ávila
October 15
7
King Saint Louis IX of France
August 25
8
Saint Thomas Aquinas
January 28
9
Blessed Jacinta Marto
February 20
Allow each child to choose a Saint to research at home.
10
Saint Ignatius of Loyola
July 31
11
Saint Timothy
January 26
12
Saint Jude
October 28
13
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
July 4
14
Blessed Maria Vicenta
July 30
15
Saint Margaret of Cortona
February 22
16
Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne
November 18
17
Saint John Neumann
January 5
18
Saint Henry II
July 13
19
Saint Faustina Kowalska
October 5
20
Saint Charles Borromeo
November 4
21
Saint John the Evangelist
December 27
• Have them create a poster displaying images they found and facts they discovered about their Saint. • Plan for a Saints day where the children can share their posters with one another. Music Option: During the poster presentation, play “Immaculate Mary,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
• You might even encourage the children to come that day dressed as the Saint they researched.
© Our Sunday Visitor
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Catechist Background Obeying God’s Will Mary’s dedication was shown in her obedience to God’s will. • Obedience is a concept with which sixth graders may be struggling. • Point out that the word obey comes from the same root as “to listen.” When we listen to others, we can learn new ways of relating to one another.
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L iv e
Honor Mary Let Us Pray
Honor Mary
Give each child a card or bookmark with his or her first name on it.
Let Us Pray Gather and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
Leader: Blessed be God.
Rehearse with the children “Let It Be Done,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
All: Blessed be God for ever. Leader: Let us pray. Bow your heads as the leader prays.
Have the children reverently carry their cards into the prayer space.
All: Amen.
Listen to God’s Word
Follow the order of prayer on the student page.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Reader: A reading from the prophet Isaiah. Read Isaiah 61:10–11.
Leader’s prayer: Father, we long to do your will. Strengthen us so that we may discern what pleases you and joyfully fulfill it.
The word of the Lord. All: Thanks be to God. After each intercession, the response is Lord, hear our prayer.
Leader: Let us pray the prayer that Jesus taught us.
Give each child the opportunity to add their own intercession. Have the group pray the response.
All: Our Father …
Go Forth! Leader: Go forth now to follow God’s will as Mary did.
At the end of the celebration, invite the children to place their name cards in the Bible.
All: Thanks be to God.
Sing “Let It Be Done”
Have them sing “Let It Be Done,” as they leave the prayer space. 13
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Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
Liturgy Link
FA M I LY + FA I T H
Marian Colors
LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
Aside from the liturgical color white, the Church’s color for Mary, blue is traditionally associated with Mary in Western art. Both colors are symbolically associated with the sky as well as with faithfulness, nobility, and purity.
• The use of the costly pigment showed a painter’s devotion to Mary.
CaTHOliC Family CUSTOmS
Ordinary Time is the longest season of the Church year. It covers thirty-three to thirty-four Sundays. It is divided into two parts. The first part extends through the weeks between Christmas and Ash Wednesday. The second part begins at the end of the Easter season and extends until the first Sunday of Advent, which begins the next cycle, or a new liturgical year. The liturgical color for the Sundays of Ordinary Time is green. White is the liturgical color for feasts of the Blessed Virgin.
Feast of the Presentation of Mary
The Feast of the Presentation of Mary occurs on November 21, during the second period of Ordinary Time. It honors the decision of Mary’s parents Anne and Joachim to dedicate her, as a child, at the Temple to God’s service. The significance of this feast is that Mary was completely dedicated to God throughout her life, as we are called to be.
Scripture
The Feast of the Presentation of Mary celebrates dedication to God’s service, which in our everyday lives occurs through service to others. Your family can celebrate the Presentation of Mary with your own rite of thanksgiving and rededication. On November 21, gather around the family table—set with an image of Mary and a lighted candle, if you wish—and take time to name and appreciate the blessings that God has given your family.
Read Ephesians 3:1–14, which was written to Gentiles who had recently converted to Christianity. The letter encourages them in their transformation and socialization into God’s purposes.
HelPing yOUr CHild UnderSTand Mary
• At this age, children will be curious about the Jewish religious traditions and rituals that were a part of Mary’s formation. • Usually children at this age will understand that Mary was a woman who had a very close relationship with God. • As a rule, children at this age are capable of comparing what is being expressed about Mary in different art forms.
© Our Sunday Visitor
• In medieval paintings, the blue pigment used for Mary’s cloak was made from ground lapis lazuli, a sky-blue semiprecious stone.
Talking abOUT Ordinary Time
Family Prayer Loving Father, Send your Holy Spirit upon us to guide us to live in love and share the blessings of our Baptism with others. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
14 Alive in Christ, Grade 6 Ordinary Time
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Advent:
Anticipation
Lesson objectives • Reflect on the Second Coming • Discover ways to prepare for the Second Coming during Advent
Catechist Background
environment Prayer table Purple cloth Advent wreath Battery-powered candles in purple colored sleeves Bible with readings marked Four banners with the words Love,Truth, Justice, and Peace, mounted on poles for carrying • Set the prayer table with the purple cloth, the Advent wreath and candles, and the Bible. • Make or direct the children in making the banners from purple cloth or felt, with letters in contrasting colors.
Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth … You too must be patient. James 5:7, 8
music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Find Us Ready” “Jesus, Come to Us” “We Are Waiting to Welcome Jesus” “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Life and Dignity of the Human Person Pages 290–291 • Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person Pages 294–295
LLRefle t What helps you remain patient, especially when you are waiting in anticipation for something? Advent is a multidimensional season. During the four weeks before Christmas, Jesus’ followers live simultaneously in the past, present, and future. With their ancestors in faith, they live in the past, sharing in the longing for the coming of God’s Anointed One. With the Church community, the Body of Christ, they live in the present, preparing themselves to celebrate the fulfillme t of the messianic promise in Jesus at Christmas. They wait in joyful hope for the Second Coming of Christ and the fulfillme t of God’s reign of justice, love, and peace. The liturgical celebrations and customs of the Season of Advent (which means “coming”) help the faithful with the balancing act of living in three dimensions. The readings for the Sundays of Advent give voice to the comforting and challenging messages of the prophets, who kept alive the hope of the Messiah through the dark years of exile and oppression. The Advent Gospels bring Jesus’ reminders that God’s reign is both here on Earth and yet to come. LLRefle t How will you honor the past, present, and future in your Advent celebrations?
Catechist’s Prayer Heavenly Father, I long for the fulfillme t of your reign of justice, love, and peace. Help me to remember that waiting patiently is a part of living my faith, and that I have no need to fear the future. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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Advent
I nv ite
Invite
Anticipation
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray the leader prayer and the verse from Isaiah. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Leader: God our Father, Send us the strength of the Holy Spirit that we will be without fear to live as your children always. Grant this through Christ our Lord.
“Say to the fearful of heart: Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God …” Isaiah 35:4a
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Say: This prayer helps us remember that God will always send the strength of the Holy Spirit to us when we need it. The Holy Spirit will help us live as God’s children. Listen carefully to part of a letter that James wrote to the early Church.
Scripture “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not complain, brothers, about one another, that you may not be judged. Behold, the Judge is standing before the gates. Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.” James 5:7–10
Scripture Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection.
What Do You Wonder? • On a scale of 1–10, how patient are you?
• Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
• What do your friends or family members do when they get impatient waiting?
• Proclaim the Scripture.
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Lectionary Connection James 5:7–10 This Gospel reading is proclaimed on the Third Sunday of Advent, Year A. • In this reading, James is encouraging the early Church, who believed Jesus was returning soon, to be patient with the wait and to keep Jesus’ New Commandment. • The people that James wrote to were beginning to face trials of many kinds. For anyone facing dark days or an unsure future, these same words can guide us as we wait patiently on the Lord.
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• Maintain several moments of silence. • Ask: What did you hear God say to you today? • Invite volunteers to share.
What Do You Wonder? Say: Being patient is a virtue. It takes practice. Most people do not like to wait. Waiting in patience for Jesus to come again is not a time to do nothing. It is a time to draw closer to him. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about waiting patiently.
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Discov er
Discover
We Look Forward
We Look Forward
Advent means “coming.” As the diagram shows, Advent celebrates the comings of Jesus.
Write the word Advent on the board or on chart paper.
Advent, the first season of the Church year, is a season of preparation. During the four weeks of Advent, the Church uses purple to remind you to repent and remember that Christ is your king. The season also calls you to trust in God’s infinite love by asking forgiveness for your sins, and invites you to reach out to those in need as Jesus did.
Invite a volunteer to read aloud the first two paragraphs. • Write the word anticipation on the board or on chart paper, and explain that it means “looking forward to.”
1.
Underline what we prepare for during the season of Advent.
2.
Circle what we are called to do during Advent.
Besides preparing to celebrate Jesus, the Son of God, coming into the world as one of us, Advent also helps us anticipate and prepare for the Second Coming of Christ at the end of time.
The Word became flesh.
• Have the children underline what we prepare for during Advent, and circle what we are called to do. Music Option: Play “Jesus, Come to Us,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Ask a volunteer to read aloud the last paragraph.
He lived, died, and rose to new life.
In the beginning was the Word.
Review with the children the illustration at the bottom of the page. • Read aloud the accompanying words, beginning with the copy on the left and working your way around clockwise.
He will come again. 16 The Church Year
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Catechist Background Manger Scenes During Advent we prepare our hearts for the Advent (coming) of Jesus. We set out Advent wreaths, calendars, and Nativity sets—also called the crèche, manger scene, or naciemiento. The tradition of displaying a manger scene was made popular by Saint Francis of Assisi. Each night during Advent, children were encouraged to place in the manger one piece of straw for each good deed done that day by a family member. This Advent tradition combines the spirit of conversion and preparation for the coming of Jesus.
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Second Coming
Second Coming
Have two volunteers each read aloud one of the paragraphs.
Jesus told his disciples that there would come a day when he would return in glory. “[H]e will send out the angels and gather [his] elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky” (Mark 13:27).
• Stress that the Second Coming is an event that followers of Jesus anticipate with joy, not fear.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Jesus’ second coming will be the last day of human history. On that day, those who have not loved God and neighbor will be forever separated from God’s love. Those who have led good lives will be embraced. And all who have died believing in Jesus will rise to greet him. There will come a new Heaven and a new Earth. We look forward to this day, because we will be reunited with our loved ones in God’s presence. All will be well.
• Ask: Why should we look forward to this day? Possible responses: We will be reunited with our loved ones; we’ll be with God.
Prepare for Jesus’ Coming During Advent, the Church directs your attention to the birth of Jesus in the past, his Second Coming in the future, and his presence with you now. As you prepare to celebrate Christmas, also prepare to be ready for Jesus’ return in glory at the end of time. No one knows when this will happen. The Second Coming could be tomorrow, or it could be thousands of years from now.
Prepare for Jesus’ Coming Have a volunteer read aloud the last paragraph.
LLIf the Second Coming happened today, what would Jesus’ review of your life be like?
• Ask: What are some things you can do in your everyday life to prepare for the Second Coming?
At the Center The Season of Advent reminds you to make Jesus the center of your life. With a partner, discuss things you can do to make Jesus the most important part of your daily living. Share your ideas with the group. Choose one thing to do for each week of Advent.
• Have the children discuss the question in small groups. Ask: If the Second Coming happened today, what would Jesus’ review of your life be like? • Do not require the children to answer this question out loud. Give them a few minutes to reflect on it.
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Catholic Social Teaching
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Music Option: While the children reflect, play “We Are Waiting to Welcome Jesus,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Life and Dignity of the Human Person, pages 290–291; or Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person, pages 294–295.
Read aloud the directions.
• To expand the lesson, complete page 17, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature.
• Allow time for partners to talk and for everyone to write down their ideas for each week.
• Return to the prayer on pages 18–19.
• Organize the children into pairs.
• Remind the children to continue to evaluate their Advent preparations.
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L iv e
Live
Prepare the Way
Prepare the Way
A celebration of the Word is a moment of prayer with the Church, using the Scriptures.
Let Us Pray Explain the prayer form.
Let Us Pray Gather and pray the Sign of the Cross.
Prepare
Leader: Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Select two readers and designate Side 1 and Side 2.
All: Who made Heaven and Earth. Leader: Let us pray.
Direct the children’s attention to the purple cloth over the front of the prayer center. Explain that purple is the Church’s color for Advent. Tell them that purple is a sign of both penance and preparation.
Bow your heads as the leader prays.
All: Amen.
Reader 1: A reading from the prophet Isaiah. Read Isaiah 40:1–5, 9–11.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Listen to God’s Word
The word of the Lord.
Distribute banners with the words Love, Truth, Justice, and Peace to four children.
All: Thanks be to God. Take a moment of silence to let the Word of God speak to your heart and mind.
Side 1: I will listen for the Word of God; surely the Lord will proclaim peace.
Rehearse with the children “Find Us Ready,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Side 2: To his people, the faithful, those who trust in him.
Gather the group for the celebration. Have the children carrying the banners lead the procession to the prayer table. Turn on the appropriate number of candles on the Advent wreath.
Pray Follow the order of prayer on the student page.
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Liturgy Link Ember Days
Leader’s prayer: Jesus, we have gathered today to welcome you into our hearts. Be with us as we await your Second Coming.
In earlier centuries, the Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday immediately after December 13 were observed as Ember Days.
Listen to God’s Word
• They were days of prayer, fasting, and charity in spiritual preparation for the Christmas season.
After the reader proclaims the first reading, allow a few moments for silent reflection. Then invite the children to stand for the Responsorial Psalm.
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• Ember Days were tied to the agricultural cycle of planting and harvesting, as well as the liturgical cycles of the Church.
• Although not typically celebrated in the United States, individual Catholics can because it’s a nice way to focus on the changing of the liturgical seasons.
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Listen to God’s Word, continued
As Side 1 and Side 2 read their parts, have the four children hold up their banners as their words are mentioned.
Side 1: Near indeed is salvation for the loyal; prosperity will fill our land.
• Ask the children to remain standing as the second reader proclaims the Scripture.
Side 2: Love and truth will meet; justice and peace will kiss. Based on Psalm 85:9–11
Reader 2: A reading from the Second Letter of Peter. Read 2 Peter 3:8–14.
Dialogue
The word of the Lord.
Invite the children to be seated to discuss the Dialogue questions.
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Thanks be to God.
Dialogue What message of hope do you get from these readings? What can you do to prepare for Jesus’ second coming?
Go Forth! Pray the closing prayer, and turn off the Advent wreath candles.
Go Forth! Bow your heads as the leader prays.
Have the children carrying the banners come forward to lead the group from the prayer space back to their seats.
Leader: Go forth and prepare a place for Jesus in your heart and make ready for his Second Coming, when all will be called to share in God’s infinite, divine love. All: Thanks be to God.
Sing “Find Us Ready”
All sing the refrain for “Find Us Ready.” Alternate Music Option: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” 19
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Catechist Background Music as Prayer The term antiphon comes from the Greek antiphonon, meaning “sounding against” or “alternate chant.” • Antiphonal prayer is particularly suited to the Psalms, which have an echoing rhythm and parallel Hebrew poetry.
Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
FA M I LY + FA I T H LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
talking about advent
Feasts oF the season
The Season of Advent, which occurs during the four weeks before Christmas, calls us to live in the past, present, and future of Christian life. We remember God’s promise of a Messiah and his coming into history as Jesus, God’s only Son. During the days of Advent, we also anticipate Christ’s Second Coming at the end of time and long for the fulfillment of God’s reign of justice, love, and peace.
Scripture
Read James 5:7–10, in which James is encouraging the early Church, who believed Jesus was returning soon, to be patient with the wait and to keep Jesus’ New Commandment.
helPing your child understand Advent
• Children are usually curious about and fascinated with stories, video games, and movies about the end of the world. Remind them of the truth: that we will share in God’s love at that time. • This is a time in children’s lives when they are becoming more aware of mortality. It can be frightening for them. They need to hear the message of hope that we, too, have a promise of Resurrection as followers of Christ.
• In this celebration, Psalm 85:9–11 was set up to be prayed antiphonally.
Our Lady of Guadalupe December 12
In the 16th century, the Blessed Virgin appeared as Our Lady of Guadalupe to Juan Diego, an Aztec Indian on his way to pursue the things of God. She told him to ask the bishop of Mexico City to build a church on the hill to assist in the conversion of the nation and be a source of consolation to the people. The bishop asked for a sign, which was given in the miraculous appearance of roses on the hill during winter, and the Blessed Virgin’s image on Juan Diego’s cloak. The times in Mexico were hard for the indigenous groups, and Our Lady of Guadalupe’s appearance as one of them is a powerful reminder of God’s love for and identification with those who suffer.
Family Prayer
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Antiphons are meant to be sung by a choir together.
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Pray this prayer each week during Advent while lighting the Advent wreath. We know that our Redeemer lives, And on that final day of days, His voice shall bid us rise again. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
20 Alive in Christ, Grade 6 Advent
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Christmas:
Season of Peace
Lesson objectives • Understand the meaning of peace and why it is important at Christmas • Describe where peace comes from
environment Prayer table White or gold cloth Bible with readings marked Battery-powered candles Tabletop Christmas tree Dove-shaped paper ornaments with the children’s names on them Pens, pencils, or markers Ornament hangers or pins • Set the prayer table with the cloth, the Bible, and the candles. • Place the Christmas tree on or next to the prayer table. • Make simple paper ornaments in the shape of doves. Write each child’s name on an ornament. Add ornament hangers so that the doves can be hung on the tree. music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Go Tell It on the Mountain” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” “O Come, All Ye Faithful” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Call to Family, Community, and Participation Pages 292–293 • Solidarity of the Human Family Pages 300–301
Catechist Background And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:13, 14 LLRefle t What can you do to work toward peace in your family and community? One message of the Christmas Season is that peace is always a miracle in a fl wed world. This miracle has been a possibility for humans ever since the Son of God became man. Christmas celebrates the arrival of the Son of God, Jesus, the Prince of Peace. After the long period of anticipation is over, Jesus comes bearing a message of peace and love for all people. The Church celebrates the birth of Jesus in the readings from the Gospels according to Luke and John. In them, Catholics are reminded of the Christmas miracle of peace for which all humans long. Commit yourself to celebrating Jesus’ birth by being a peacemaker. Try to resolve confli ts peacefully at work, at home, wherever you are. Work for the restoration of justice in all aspects of your life and the lives of others, while proclaiming “Glory to God.” LLRefle t What can you do to make peace more possible this Christmas?
Catechist’s Prayer Jesus, Prince of Peace, help me to slow down and simplify my life so that I may better focus on you and the true meaning of Christmas. Bring peace and forgiveness to my heart and help me to show your love to all. Amen.
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I nv ite
Christmas
Invite
Season of Peace
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray the leader’s prayer. Then have the children pray the verse from Colossians. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Leader: Faithful God, You sent your only Son to bring us the gift of peace. May we be messengers of peace with our families and friends. May your peace reign in our world.
“And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body.” Colossians 3:15
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Say: We all want peace in our homes and in the world. God wants that for us, too. Listen to the words of the angels as they announced the birth of Jesus.
Scripture “… ‘And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’” Luke 2:12–14
Scripture
Young people reenact a Nativity scene during a Christmas Eve Mass.
Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. • Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
What Do You Wonder? • How many ways can you bring peace to your family?
• Proclaim the Scripture.
• Why can’t people live in peace?
• Maintain several moments of silence.
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• Ask: What did you hear God say to you today? • Invite volunteers to share.
Lectionary Connection Luke 2:12–14 This Gospel reading is proclaimed at the Midnight Mass of Christmas in all three Church year cycles. • In the Gospel according to Luke, we hear about the birth of Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem. • A band of shepherds were summoned from their watch by an angelic chorus. The angels’ words expressed the hope of the season.
What Do You Wonder? Say: In the reading, the angels proclaim peace to people of good will. That’s you and me. We are called to continue to bring Jesus’ peace to others. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about living in peace.
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Discov er
Discover
Jesus, Prince of Peace
Jesus, Prince of Peace Write on the board or on chart paper the opening sentence of the prayer “Glory to God” from the Mass. • Invite the children to recall the connection between these words and the celebration of Christmas. If they are unsure, tell them to listen for the answer in the text on page 22.
Christmas Christmas is a season of hope and peace. • During the weeks between Christmas and the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus, you often hear those words— hope and peace—as you listen to the readings and the hymns. • White or gold vestments, the colors of the Christmas season, invite you to grow in peace and hope.
As the Jewish people waited for the Messiah, they heard many prophecies. They learned that a virgin would give birth to a son called Immanuel. He would be known as “Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:5). This child’s reign would be vast and forever peaceful (see Isaiah 9:6). Christmas celebrates the arrival of this Prince of Peace.
Message of Peace
One way to celebrate Jesus’ birth is to commit yourself to peacemaking.You become a peacemaker by respecting others and recognizing the dignity of all people, by praying for peace, and by asking God to end conflicts between neighbors and nations.You make the world more peaceful by working for justice in your home, school, and community.
Summarize the first paragraph.
Message of Peace Ask two volunteers to each read aloud one of the remaining paragraphs.
© Our Sunday Visitor
When Jesus was born, the heavenly host praised God and proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). After his Resurrection, Jesus greeted people with the words “Peace be with you” (John 20:19). The peace Jesus offers is rooted in the promise that no matter what happens, you can be confident that God’s loving presence is with you every minute of the day. With this confidence comes a deep sense of peacefulness.
LLHow can you be a peacemaker?
• Invite the children to share their own definitions of peace. • List words and phrases associated with peace on the board or on chart paper. Have the children name familiar Christmas hymns or carols that mention the theme of peace. • Ask: How can you be a peacemaker? • Emphasize small, positive actions such as forgiving and including others. Say: Every time you say or sing the Gloria, you proclaim God’s peace. But peace happens when you act as a peacemaker. Being a peacemaker is one of the ways you continue to bring God’s message to others. Music Option: Sing with the children “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” or “O Come All Ye Faithful,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Call to Family, Community, and Participation, pages 292–293; or Solidarity of the Human Family, pages 300–301. • To expand the lesson, complete page 22, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to the prayer on page 23.
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Celebrate Peace Let Us Pray
Celebrate Peace
Give each child the dove-shaped paper ornament with his or her name on it.
Let Us Pray Gather and pray the Sign of the Cross.
Leader: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Invite the children to write prayers for people and nations that need the blessing of peace.
All: Now and forever. Leader: Let us pray. Bow your heads in silent prayer. Then listen as the
Follow the order of prayer on the student page.
leader prays.
All: Amen. © Our Sunday Visitor
The Lord’s Prayer and Sign of Peace
Invite the children to hang their ornaments on the tree.
Leader: At the Savior’s command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say:
Leader’s prayer: God of peace, may our hearts and minds be open to your presence. May our actions and words spread your peace throughout the world.
All: Our Father … Leader: Let us offer each other a sign of peace.
Go Forth! Leader: Go forth in peace. May the love and kindness of Jesus be with you as you share his peace with all you meet.
Lead the children in praying the prayers they wrote earlier. Invite them to take their ornaments home to hang on their own trees.
All: Amen. Sing “Go Tell It on the Mountain”
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Liturgy Link Peace on Earth The theme of peace continues throughout the Christmas Season. On January 1, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.
• January 1 is also celebrated in many religious traditions as the World Day of Prayer for Peace.
Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
FA M I LY + FA I T H LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
TalkiNg abOuT cHriSTmaS
FeaSTS OF THe SeaSON
The Christmas Season, which lasts from the Christmas Eve Vigil until the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, is a joy-filled and hopeful season. The liturgical colors of white and gold and the festive decorations in church raise our hearts to hear the angels’ message: “Peace to those on whom [God’s] favor rests” (Luke 2:14)
January 1
Scripture
Read Luke 2:1–14, in which we see that one function of the angels is as messengers of God. How do you imagine an angel delivered the message from this passage?
HelPiNg yOur cHild uNderSTaNd Peace
• Usually children this age are aware of the need for peace in the world. In fact, situations of unrest are often unsettling for them. • Most children at this age are not naturally peacemakers when they are personally involved in a conflict. It is sometimes difficult for them to see options other than what they want or need. They need to be shown various options.
Feast of the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary The feast of the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, is a holy day of obligation. At some point during the day, gather your family to say prayers for peace by asking for the intercession of Mary and her Son, the Prince of Peace, to bring peace to nations and families torn by conflict. In the Ukrainian tradition, children gently toss handfuls of wheat (which symbolizes new life in Christ) at their parents, while wishing them a healthy and blessed New Year.
© Our Sunday Visitor
• The Old Testament reading for this feast, from the Book of Numbers, asks God’s peace on all people.
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Family Prayer Prayer of Saint Francis Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
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Lent:
Time for Scrutiny
Lesson objectives • Explore Lent as a time to turn away from evil and sin • Explain the Lenten scrutinies
environment Prayer table Purple cloth Standing crucifix Bible with the reading marked Sheep figures • Set the prayer table with the purple cloth, the crucifix, and the Bible. • In advance of the celebration, ask the children to bring from home pictures of sheep, pillows or stuffed animals in the shape of lambs or sheep. music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Through My Fault” “With These Ashes” “Ashes” “Show Us Your Mercy” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person Pages 294–295 • Option for the Poor and Vulnerable Pages 296–297
Catechist Background “Everyone, from least to greatest, shall know me … for I will forgive their iniquity and no longer remember their sin.” Jeremiah 31:34 LLRefle t What can you do during Lent to re-form yourself in Christ’s image? The forty days of Lent have traditionally been recognized as a time of formation for Christians. Those already baptized are called to re-form themselves in the image of Christ through prayer, fasting, penance, and charity. Those preparing for Baptism use this season of preparation to make a strong commitment to full initiation, which is celebrated at the Easter Vigil. During Lent, parishes in which there is an active catechumenate have the unique experience of participating in the rites of scrutiny, usually celebrated on the third, fourth, and fi th Sundays of Lent. To scrutinize is to examine closely, to investigate. In these rites, the elect are called to scrutinize their own lives, to root out and eliminate anything that stands between them and their commitment to Jesus. The assembly also has a role—to examine and ratify the commitment of the elect, as well as to look closely into their own Lenten re-formation. LLRefle t What parts of your life require scrutiny and reform during Lent?
Catechist’s Prayer Lord God, help me to examine the ways in which I walk and the words I speak to others. Lead me on the path to living a Christian life that honors you and builds up others. I pray that I may accomplish your will in my life. Amen.
25A Church Year: Lent
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:50 AM
I nv ite
Lent
Invite
Time for Scrutiny
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray aloud the leader prayer and the Psalm verse as the children follow along. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Leader: Lord, God, send your Holy Spirit that we may come to know you better. May we come to know what holds us back from loving you with all our heart. May we return to you and ask forgiveness. Through Christ, our Lord,
“… hope in the Lord, For with the Lord is mercy, with him is plenteous redemption …”
Psalm 130:7
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Say: We ask God to send the Holy Spirit to help us see what holds us back from a better relationship with him. In today’s reading we will hear that God wants us to know him better.
Scripture “But this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, [says] the Lord: I will place my law within them, and write it upon their hearts; I will be their God, and they shall be my people. They will no longer teach their friends and relatives, ‘Know the Lord!’ Everyone, from least to greatest, shall know me … for I will forgive their iniquity and no longer remember their sin.” Jeremiah 31:33–34
Scripture Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. • Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
What Do You Wonder? • How do you know that God loves you? • How does God forgive you?
• Proclaim the Scripture. • Maintain several moments of silence.
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Lectionary Connection Jeremiah 31:33–34 This reading is proclaimed on the Fifth Sunday of Lent, Year B. • The story of Israel shows us that no nation or people can solve the world’s problems without relying on God. • Although they had the law and the Old Covenant, the Israelites were stubborn, having “hearts of stone.” • This reading in Jeremiah makes a prophetic announcement of the new covenant that is to come that will be written in human hearts, softened by the Holy Spirit.
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• Ask: What did you hear God say to you today? • Invite volunteers to share.
What Do You Wonder? Say: In the reading, we heard that God really wants us to come to him and know him. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about God’s love and forgiveness.
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/2/13
:16 AM
Discover
Discov er
Lenten Preparation
Lenten Preparation
Lent
Tell the children that Lent has traditionally been a season of repentance and preparation for all Catholics.
• You pray for faith that you may truly appreciate the wonderful gift of life that Easter brings. • You pray for hope that you will not let your problems or fears overwhelm you. • You pray for charity that you will have the generosity to help others in need. • And you pray for others, including those in your parish preparing for Baptism, asking God to bless them and keep them safe from all harm.
Have the children silently read both paragraphs. Music Option: While the children read, play “With These Ashes,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
On these Sundays of Lent, we hear important Lenten Gospel accounts: The Woman at the Well (see John 4:3–42), The Man Born Blind (see John 9:1–41), and The Raising of Lazarus from the Dead (see John 11:1–44).
Scripture
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Say: During Lent we take time to think about Jesus’ suffering and dying for us. Jesus is a model of unselfishness for us, and Lent gives us time to look at ways we can be more like him.
Prayer is an important part of Lent.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on the evening of Holy Thursday. Purple, the liturgical color of the season, reminds us that we need to repent. The forty days of Lent are a time to reflect on the sufferings and Death of Jesus. Lent is also a time to prepare to celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection on Easter Sunday. Members of the Church dedicate more time to prayer. They perform works of penance, such as fasting, praying, and almsgiving to people who are poor or in need. They also participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
The Samaritan Woman While passing through Samaria, Jesus stopped to rest at a well. A woman of Samaria came to draw water from the well, and Jesus said to her “Give me a drink.” The Samaritan woman said to him, “How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?” Jesus said to her, “If you knew the gift of God and who is saying [this] to you, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water ... Everyone whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty.” John 4:4–15
LLWhat do you really need
Scripture
in your life right now? How can Jesus provide it?
Ask a volunteer to proclaim the Scripture. Read aloud the questions at the bottom of the page. • Encourage the children to reflect on their answers. Review with the children the information in the side column.
26 The Church Year
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:1 AM
Catechist Background Scrutinies The scrutinies, celebrated during Lent, are a moving demonstration of the fact that no one travels the journey of faith alone. • As the elect are called to look deeply into their own lives, so each person is called to examine his or her own conscience in preparation for the Risen Lord. • During Lent, Church members pray with and for one another in a special way.
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Scrutinies Ask the children to discuss how adults become members of the Catholic Church. • If your parish has an active catechumenate, make reference to initiation rites that the children may have observed.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Scrutinies During Lent, those who will receive the Sacraments of Initiation, the elect, enter a time of reflection to deepen their commitment to follow Christ. To help bring about this process, the Church celebrates rituals called scrutinies. There are scrutinies on the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sundays of Lent. During the scrutinies, the elect come forward at Mass. The priest greets them and asks them to kneel. He lays his hands on their heads and prays that God will heal and strengthen them. The community prays with the priest and asks God to protect the elect from evil. The community also asks Jesus to give strength and faith to all his followers. As the elect prepare for Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist, the entire community is renewed. Each week helps the community to think more deeply about the power of evil in our lives. How are we tempted by evil? What do we need to do in order to reject evil and avoid sin? Through these rituals, the whole Church admits our need for Jesus, our Savior.
Ask three volunteers to each read aloud one of the paragraphs.
Underline what the Church community does during the Scrutinies.
• Write the words elect and scrutiny on the board or on chart paper. • Explain to the children that the term elect means “to choose.” The word scrutiny comes from a Latin word meaning “to look closely.” During Lent, the elect and the community look closely into their own lives.
Becoming Members Write a note to one of the people in your parish who will join the Church this Easter, telling that person that you will pray for him or her in a special way on the scrutiny Sundays.
• Have the children underline what the Church community does during the scrutinies. Music Option: While the children complete the activity, play “Ashes,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Lent 27
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person, pages 294–295; or Option for the Poor and Vulnerable, pages 296–297. • To expand the lesson, complete page 27, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to the prayer on pages 28–29.
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Have a volunteer read aloud the directions. • List the names of the elect of your parish on the board or on chart paper (check your parish bulletin or contact a member of the parish staff for the list of names). Or, invite the children to write generic notes that can be delivered to the cathedral parish of your diocese. • Allow time for the children to plan and write their notes; then collect them.
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:15 AM
Live
L iv e
Celebrate Lent
Celebrate Lent
In this prayer form, a celebration of the Word, you listen to and reflect on God’s Word.
Let Us Pray Explain the prayer form.
Let Us Pray Gather and pray the Sign of the Cross.
Prepare
Leader: O Lord, open my lips.
You will be the leader.
All: That my mouth shall proclaim your praise.
Have the children prepare prayers for those who need help in finding their way to God and for those who lead others to the Lord.
Leader: Lord, grant us your pardon and peace, so that, cleansed of our sins, we may serve you with untroubled hearts. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Listen to God’s Word
Direct the children’s attention to the purple cloth and cross in the prayer center. Explain that purple is the Church’s color for Lent.
Leader: A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke.
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Read Luke 15:1–7.
The Gospel of the Lord. All: Praise to you, Lord, Jesus Christ.
Gather the children for the celebration.
Dialogue When have you felt like a lost sheep? Who helped you find your way? When have you helped others find their way?
Pray Follow the order of prayer on the student pages.
Listen to God’s Word Proclaim the Scripture. 28
Dialogue Ask the children to choose partners with whom to discuss the Dialogue questions.
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Songs of Scripture The Prodigal Son Lent is a time when we ask for God’s help to see the ways in which we have sinned. • Cut paper grocery bags into the shape of large stones. Ask the children to write on the stones some ways children their age sin. • Create a path of “stones” on the floor, leading to the cross. • Emphasize that the path to forgiveness begins with admitting our sin. Teach the children the song. Use Songs of Scripture, Grades 4–6 CD, Track 14
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Prayer of the Faithful Organize the children in a circle, and gesture for the group to kneel. Lead the children in praying the prayers. Invite them to add their own petitions to the prayer. Invite the group to pray the Lord’s Prayer.
Prayer of the Faithful Leader: Let us ask God to make us faithful followers of Jesus. All: Lord, hear our prayer. Leader: Let us gather what we ask of God into a single prayer.
Penitential Act
All: Our Father …
After a moment of silence, lead the children in the penitential prayer.
Penitential Act © Our Sunday Visitor
Kneel silently as the leader prays.
Leader: Loving Father, free these young people from whatever could make them turn from you and help them to walk in your light.
Go Forth! Invite the children to stand. Call them forward to take the sheep from the prayer table.
All: We want to walk with Jesus, who gave his life for us. Help us, Father, to follow him.
Pray the dismissal.
From the Penitential Act, RCIA.
Lead the children in singing “Through My Fault” as they return to their seats.
Go Forth! Leader: Let us go forth to share Christ’s light and peace. All: Thanks be to God.
Alternate Music Option: “Show Us Your Mercy”
Sing “Through My Fault”
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Liturgy Link Love of God The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) originated in the early centuries of the Church, when many people risked their lives to witness to Jesus. Although they usually are not risking their lives to do so, the elect still witness to the same truths today.
• those who have never been baptized in any faith
Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
FA M I LY + FA I T H LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
Talking abOUT lenT
CaTHOliC Family CUSTOmS
Lent is a forty-day journey that begins on Ash Wednesday. The receiving of ashes on one’s forehead marks one’s promise to repent or change to grow closer to God and the Church. Lent is a time of inner change for us. It is traditionally a time of penance. During this season, incorporate customs of fasting, prayer, and charity into your family life.
Lent is a good time to broaden our awareness of the Sacraments and our shared faith journey. During family prayer time, pray for the children who will be receiving Reconciliation for the first time during Lent. Talk with your children about how this Sacrament helps us make a fresh spiritual start. Also include a prayer for the RCIA candidates in your parish.
Scripture
Read Jeremiah 31:33–34 and reflect on God’s covenant and forgiveness. How do family members show forgiveness to one another?
HelPing yOUr CHild UnderSTand Lent
• Most children at this age understand Lent as a season to “give up” things rather than to change. Help them to first think of something that needs to change, and then find a sacrifice that helps them to remember the deeper need for conversion. • Many children at this age have developed an appreciation for art. They would likely benefit from reflecting on different art portrayals of Jesus’ Passion and Death.
• people who were baptized in another Christian faith
Family Prayer
© Our Sunday Visitor
RCIA is for three groups of people:
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Use this as an evening blessing prayer for the family: May the Lord our God send his Holy Spirit to guide us in our Lenten journey. May he strengthen us to change what needs to be changed in order to be better followers of Jesus. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
• baptized Catholics who have never received the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist 30 Alive in Christ, Grade 6 Lent
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Time for Scrutiny 29–30
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:14 AM
Easter:
Triduum
Lesson objectives • Explain the Triduum • Discover God’s actions of saving his people throughout history
environment Prayer table White cloth Bible with reading marked Bowl of the holy water • Set the prayer table with the white cloth, the bowl of holy water, and the Bible. music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Radiant Light Divine” “Pange Lingua” “Easter Alleluia” “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today,” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Life and Dignity of the Human Person Pages 290–291 • Option for the Poor and Vulnerable Pages 296–297
Catechist Background Let the wicked forsake their way, and sinners their thoughts; Let them turn to the Lord to fin mercy; to our God, who is generous in forgiving. Isaiah 55:7 LLRefle t Why is it sometimes hard for us to forgive others even when God is so forgiving? The Triduum is the three-day sacred period that celebrates in a special way the Paschal Mystery. These days start at sundown and end at sundown. The firs “day” of the Triduum begins with the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday and continues through the liturgical celebrations of Good Friday. The second “day” flows from Good Friday evening through sundown on Holy Saturday—a period of silence and waiting. The third day begins with the Easter Vigil, continues through the Masses of Easter morning, and concludes with Evening Prayer on Easter Sunday night. The liturgical year comes into its fullness in the Triduum. With the solemn ceremony of the washing of feet on Holy Thursday, the veneration of the cross on Good Friday, and the lighting of the new fire at the Easter Vigil, these days take the faithful far from the everyday. Yet these yearly ceremonies elaborate on the saving events the Church celebrates and commemorates at every Sunday Mass. This lesson reminds the children that the whole of salvation history is recalled in the liturgies of the Triduum. Special attention is paid to the readings from the firs part of the Easter Vigil celebration, which begin with creation and recount the history of salvation up through the prophets. LLRefle t How can you hear the story of salvation as if for the firs time during the Triduum?
Catechist’s Prayer Lord, at this special time of year, I recommit myself to you. Help me to see, hear, and experience the liturgies of the Triduum in a special way that brings the Paschal Mystery to life. Amen.
31A Church Year: Easter
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6/12/13 10:00 AM
I nv ite
Easter
Invite
Triduum
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray the Psalm verse; have the children pray it again. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Leader: Lord, God, you have saved your people over and over again. We are unworthy and we are grateful. Keep us close to you. Through Christ, our Lord,
“May your mercy, Lord, be upon us; as we put our hope in you.” Psalm 33:22 All: Amen.
Say: This prayer helps us remember that God’s attitude toward all persons in every era of history is to save us from sin. In the Isaiah reading, the prophet continues to tell the Hebrew people to return to God.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Scripture “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake their way, and sinners their thoughts; Let them turn to the Lord to find mercy; to our God, who is generous in forgiving. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways [says] the Lord.” Isaiah 55:6–8
Scripture Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. • Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
What Do You Wonder? • What happens when we turn to God to ask for forgiveness?
• Why is it hard for us to forgive each other?
• Proclaim the Scripture. • Maintain several moments of silence.
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Lectionary Connection Isaiah 55:6–8 This reading is proclaimed on the Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A. • This passage conveys an urgency in getting one’s heart right with God while there is still time. • Isaiah urges us to “seek the Lord while he may be found.” If we wait, the day may pass, and we will have missed the opportunity to partake of all that God offers us.
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• Ask: What did you hear God say to you today? • Invite volunteers to share.
What Do You Wonder? Say: It seems that Isaiah reminds the people that the human way of unforgiveness, or not giving people a second chance, is not God’s way. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about forgiveness.
• Earlier in the passage, Isaiah said that those who hunger and thirst are called to come and partake of God’s goodness.
Triduum 31
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Discov er
Discover From Life to Death; From Death to Life Write the word Triduum on the board or on chart paper. Ask the children to explain this term.
From Life to Death; From Death to Life In the opening chapters of the Bible, stories are told to explore the beginning of the human race and the origin of sin. In the Scripture, God creates our first parents, Adam and Eve, to live in friendship with him forever. Adam and Eve choose instead to violate God’s friendship and follow their own path. By doing this, they lose paradise and the Original Holiness God shared with them. Death replaces eternal life as the destiny of humans.
• Explain that each of the three days of the Triduum begins and ends at sundown, according to Jewish custom.
Triduum
Review with the children the content in the side column.
• The last three days of Holy Week are called the Triduum, a word that means “a period of three days.”
• Ask the children to think about how salvation history is recalled during the liturgies of the Triduum. • Have them define Paschal Mystery in their own words. Clarify the meaning as needed.
Point out the illustrations across pages 32 and 33. • Ask the group to follow along as you have volunteers read aloud the captions.
LLDescribe some New Testament
accounts that show how Jesus brings salvation.
• During this time, the Church celebrates the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday, the Easter Vigil on the night of Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday Mass and Evening Prayer.
Adam and Eve’s choice
• During these three days the entire story of salvation is proclaimed and celebrated in the liturgy.
• Say: Describe some New Testament stories that show how Jesus brings salvation. Music Option: Play or sing with the children “Pange Lingua,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
The story of salvation in the Old Testament reaches its fulfillment in the New Testament events also shown below. The history of salvation is fulfilled in Jesus. The stories and events come together in the life of Jesus. The Triduum celebrates the whole of salvation history that culminates in the Paschal Mystery.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Invite three volunteers to each read aloud one of the paragraphs.
However, God acts in human history to bring his People back to himself. This is seen in key events below, and in the establishment of David’s kingdom, and the words of the prophets.
God’s promise to Abraham, Sarah, and all of Israel
32 The Church Year
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Quick Tip Reconciliation Reconciliation is one of the Catholic Church’s greatest offerings. To be wiped free of sin and granted absolution is truly a gift. • Remind the children that, more than our words, our actions show that we are grateful for God’s saving love. • Ask them to use this season for resolving conflicts and promoting reconciliation among family members, friends, and classmates.
32 Church Year: Easter
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Salvation in Christ
Salvation in Christ The three days of the Easter Triduum summarize and fulfill the Old Testament’s story of salvation. By participating in the liturgies on the three most holy days, you are celebrating your own salvation and that of all who live in Christ.
• Ask: What does salvation mean to you?
The Three Days Illustrate a tryptich that tells the Story of Salvation in words or images in the three panels. Think about how the days are connected and what happens during each.
• Have the children silently reflect on the question. Music Option: While the children reflect, play “Easter Alleluia” or “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
© Our Sunday Visitor
The liturgies of these days help us recall the journey of Jesus’ Death and Resurrection. There is much to see, hear, and do at the liturgies of the Triduum, and all of it brings to life the meaning of the events of Jesus’ Last Supper, Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension.
Have a volunteer read aloud the two paragraphs.
• Invite volunteers to share their responses. The Last Supper
The Resurrection of Jesus
Read aloud the directions. • Provide the children with art supplies. • Have them work independently on their illustrations. • Allow volunteers to share their completed work.
Moses leading the Israelites from slavery to the Promised Land
The Crucifixion of Jesus
Easter: Triduum 33
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Life and Dignity of the Human Person, pages 290–291; or Option for the Poor and Vulnerable, pages 296–297. • To expand the lesson, complete page 33, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to the prayer on pages 34–35.
Triduum 33
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L iv e
Live
Celebrate Triduum
Celebrate Triduum
This celebration includes a section from the Exsultet, which is proclaimed during the Easter Vigil.
Let Us Pray Explain that this celebration includes a section from the Exsultet, which is proclaimed during the Easter Vigil.
Let Us Pray Gather and pray the Sign of the Cross.
Leader: God, come to my assistance. All: Lord, make haste to help me. Leader: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
Prepare
All: as it was in the beginning is now, and ever shall be world without end. Amen. Leader: Let us pray. Bow your heads as the leader prays.
Select a reader. You will be the leader.
All: Amen.
Listen to God’s Word
Have the children rehearse “Radiant Light Divine,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Reader: A reading from the Book of Genesis. Read Genesis 1:1, 26–31a.
The word of the Lord. All: Thanks be to God.
Invite the children to gather around the prayer table in a circle. Lead them in making the Sign of the Cross with holy water.
Pray Follow the order of prayer on the student pages. Leader’s prayer: Lord, be with us today as we remember the holy gift of your life, given up for us.
Listen to God’s Word Have the reader proclaim the Scripture. • Invite the children to take a few moments to reflect on God’s Word.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Direct the children’s attention to the white cloth over the front of the prayer center. Explain that white is the Church’s color for Holy Thursday.
Take a few moments of silence to refle t on God’s Word.
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Catechist Background Glory Be The Glory Be prayer is most familiar from the Rosary where it is recited at the end of each decade of the Hail Mary. It is referred to in some older prayer books and scholarly writings as a doxology (an expression of praise for God). • The Glory Be prayer reminds us that God’s plan of salvation is threaded throughout all of human history. • This prayer recounts the creation and the promise of redemption. It reminds us to look forward to the coming of God’s Reign in its fullness.
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Dialogue Lead the children in a discussion of the Dialogue questions.
Proclamation
Dialogue
Have the reader share the words a cantor may sing during the
How do you participate in Jesus’ Passion, Death, and Resurrection? How can you live for God in Christ Jesus?
Easter Vigil.
Proclamation
Leader’s prayer: God our Father, your children praise and thank you for making possible new life with you. Help us to exalt you always.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Leader: During the Easter Vigil, a cantor may sing: Reader: Exult, let them exult, the hosts of heaven, exult, let Angel ministers of God exult, let the trumpet of salvation sound aloud our mighty King’s triumph! Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her, ablaze with light from her eternal King, let all corners of the earth be glad, knowing an end to gloom and darkness.
Go Forth! Pray the closing prayer.
Leader: Let us pray.
Have the children sign themselves once more with holy water.
Bow your heads as the leader prays.
All: Amen.
Sing the hymn refrain together. Repeat the hymn several times as the children return to their seats.
Go Forth! Leader: Go forth to glorify the Lord by your life. All: Thanks be to God.
Sing “Radiant Light Divine”
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Liturgy Link Liturgical Environments The liturgies of the Triduum cover the full spectrum of human emotion. • During the Triduum, emotions run from the bittersweet agony of Good Friday to the jubilant rejoicing of Easter.
Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
FA M I LY + FA I T H living our catholic faith
Talking abOUT TridUUm
CaTHOliC Family CUSTOmS
Holy Week is the holiest week of the Church Year. It begins on Palm Sunday and continues until Evening Prayer on Easter Sunday. The Triduum, or “three days,” marks the most sacred time of Holy Week. It begins at sundown on Holy Thursday and ends at sundown on Easter Sunday. During these three days, the whole Church fasts and prays with anticipation and hope. On Holy Saturday, the Church gathers in darkness to await the Resurrection of the Light of the World. The Paschal Candle is lit with new fire; its flame is shared with all present. The readings begin with creation and show God’s plan for our salvation. The Sacraments of Initiation are a prominent part of the Vigil Service; new members are baptized, confirmed, and given the Eucharist.
Scripture
Read Isaiah 55:1–11 to learn about Isaiah’s rendering of God’s covenant as a nourishing experience for hungry and thirsty human beings.
HelPing yOUr CHild UnderSTand Triduum
• Most children this age come to a better understanding of the meaning of this week if they participate in the liturgies or focus on the symbols. • At this age, children are often interested in the drama of Holy Week and the Triduum in particular. They may also show an interest in the historical significance and parallels with the Jewish Passover.
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday is a day of waiting, remembering that Christ was in the tomb. Make it a solemn day in your home, a day of quiet and reflection. It is also a day of preparation. • When all of the Easter foods are prepared, gather as a family to bless them, giving thanks for the food and for Easter. • At supper, light candles. The Light of Christ precedes us into the dark, chasing away the shadows, replacing darkness with God’s mercy and love. • Have a family member read aloud the words sung during the Easter Vigil (see below).
© Our Sunday Visitor
• The environment of the celebrations, from liturgical colors to decorations (or lack of them), symbolizes the wide range of emotions during this time.
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Family Prayer From the Exsultet The sanctifying power of this night dispels wickedness, washes faults away, restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners, drives out hatred, fosters concord, and brings down the mighty. … O truly blessed night, when things of heaven are wed to those of earth, and divine to the human. May this flame be found still burning by the Morning Star … Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
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Easter:
Witnesses
Lesson objectives • Describe the meaning of a witness and relate it to Easter • Understand the Resurrection as the central belief of the Church’s faith
environment Prayer table White or gold cloth Bible with reading marked Large empty bowl Large egg-shaped pieces of paper Pencils Large cloth or felt banner with the word Alleluia and a cross on it A small bell for each child • Set the prayer table with the white or gold cloth, the Bible, the bowl, the egg-shaped papers, and the pencils. • Prepare or have the children prepare the banner, and choose someone to carry it, lift it, and lay it over the bowl during the celebration. music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Behold the Glory of God” “Easter Alleluia” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Call to Family, Community, and Participation Pages 292–293 • Care for God’s Creation Pages 302–303
Catechist Background On the evening of that firs day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” John 20:19 LLRefle t How do Jesus’ words of peace comfort and encourage you? How does the Holy Spirit help us to be in and with Christ? The celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection is the culmination of the yearly cycle of commemoration of the Paschal Mystery. It is the most important event of the liturgical year. Easter is the oldest celebration of the Church. The Church celebrates Easter in the spring, on the firs Sunday after the full moon of the spring equinox. The liturgy of Easter Sunday is the original pattern for every Sunday liturgy, because every Sunday is a “little Easter.” At the Mass on Easter Sunday morning, we hear of the joy of those who firs encountered the Risen Christ. We are witnesses to the life, Death, and rising of the Lord. We are sent out into the world to proclaim the Good News. In the Gospel according to John, when Mary Magdalene meets the Risen Christ in the garden, her firs impulse is to cling to him with joy. Jesus, however, lets her know that the truth of Easter is not to be held tightly in the grasp of a select few, but is to be shared with all people. “Do not cling to me,” Jesus tells her, “but go and share the good news.” The word Mass, which comes from the Latin missa, or “sending forth,” is a testimony to what the liturgy strengthens and prepares us to do, not only on Easter Sunday, but throughout the liturgical year. LLRefle t How can you be a witness to the Risen Christ this Easter Season?
Catechist’s Prayer Glorious God, this special time of year is one of pure joy for your People. We celebrate the victory of life over death, love over loss, and salvation over sin. Thank you for sending your Son to save us. Amen.
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Witnesses
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray aloud the leader prayer and the Psalm verse. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Leader: Lord, God, send your Holy Spirit to give us the courage to witness to others the Good News of the Resurrection. Through Christ, our Lord,
“Blessed is [the one] who comes in the name of the Lord.” Psalm 118:26a
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Say: We ask God to send the Holy Spirit with the gift of courage to help us let go of any fear we have of witnessing our Christian life to others. In the Gospel reading today, Jesus invites the Apostles to be peacemakers and forgivers.
Scripture “On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’ When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. [Jesus] said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’ And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.’” John 20:19–23
Scripture Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. What Do You Wonder? • What do you think the disciples were thinking and feeling when they saw the Risen Christ?
• Proclaim the Scripture.
• Why was Jesus’ first message about forgiveness?
• Maintain several moments of silence.
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Lectionary Connection John 20:19–23 This Gospel reading is proclaimed on the day of Pentecost, Year A. • This Scripture reading recounts Jesus’ first appearance to the gathered disciples. • In this passage, Jesus first greets his disciples with “Peace.” He then gives his disciples the authority to forgive sins in his name, ensuring that God’s peace would be available to all through the forgiveness of sins offered by the Church.
• Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
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• Ask: What did you hear God say to you today? • Invite volunteers to share.
What Do You Wonder? Say: In today’s reading, the Risen Christ offers peace to his disciples, and he sends them out to be ministers of forgiveness. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about Jesus’ message of forgiveness.
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Discov er
Discover
Sharing the Message
Sharing the Message Write the word witness on the board or on chart paper. • Ask the children to list all of the meanings that they associate with the word. Invite a volunteer to read aloud all of the text.
Easter • Easter is the Feast of the Resurrection of Jesus. • It is the oldest and most important celebration in the Church’s calendar. • The Easter Season starts on Easter Sunday and continues until Pentecost, fifty days later. • The priest wears white vestments during Easter.
Three days after his death, Jesus rose from the dead. Some faithful women had gone to the tomb, but he was not there. He then appeared to them, saying, “Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me” (Matthew 28:10). In the Gospel according to John, Jesus first appears to Mary Magdalene, who reports to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord” (John 20:18). The glorified Jesus also appeared to the disciples on the road to Emmaus and to the eleven Apostles and other followers. The disciples and Apostles who saw the glorified Christ became his witnesses. They spread the news around the world just as Jesus told them to do. (See Acts 1:8.) By gathering to celebrate the Easter message, you are a witness of Jesus’ Resurrection today.
LLHow else are you a witness of Jesus’ Resurrection today? LLHow does your parish celebrate Easter? © Our Sunday Visitor
• Ask: How else are you a witness of Jesus’ Resurrection today? • Remind the children that we witness to the Risen Lord by sharing his message of God’s love with everyone we meet. • Ask: How does your parish celebrate Easter? • Encourage sharing among the group. Music Option: Have the children sing “Easter Alleluia,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Review with the children the content in the side column.
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Call to Family, Community, and Participation, pages 292–293; or Care for God’s Creation, pages 302–303. • To extend the lesson, complete page 38, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to the prayer on page 39.
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L iv e
Celebrate Easter Let Us Pray
Celebrate Easter
Direct the children’s attention to the white cloth and white candle in the prayer center. Explain that white is the Church’s color for Easter.
Let Us Pray Gather and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
Leader: Light and peace in Jesus Christ our Lord, Alleluia. All: Thanks be to God, Alleluia.
Have the children rehearse “Behold the Glory of God,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Leader: Let us pray. Bow your heads as the leader prays.
All: Amen.
Gather the children around the Alleluia banner. Have the banner carrier lead the children to the prayer table.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Listen to God’s Word Leader: A reading from the holy Gospel according to John. Read John 20:1–9.
The Gospel of the Lord. All: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
• Follow the order of prayer on the student page.
Go Forth! Leader: Go forth and live the hope that comes from the Risen Jesus, Alleluia, Alleluia.
Leader’s prayer: Father, may Christ raise us up and renew our lives.
All: Thanks be to God, Alleluia, Alleluia.
Lead the children in singing “Behold the Glory of God” as they return to their seats.
Sing “Behold the Glory of God”
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Liturgy Link Sights and Sounds The liturgies of Easter are filled with sights and sounds of joy. The vestments and hangings are white or gold. The Alleluia, absent since Ash Wednesday, resounds. Church bells ring.
Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
FA M I LY + FA I T H LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
TalkiNg abOuT eaSTer
FeaSTS OF THe SeaSON
The celebration of the Easter Season includes the fifty days following the Triduum. The Easter liturgies reflect the joy of salvation. The Alleluia is sung once again. The words of the hymns celebrate the victory of life over death, love over loss, salvation over sin. The People of God renew their baptismal commitment when they are sprinkled with holy water. The Gospels unpack the meaning of the Easter event and help the assembly to celebrate God’s saving power. The People of God are sent out from the Easter celebrations to spread the Good News.
Divine Mercy Sunday is the Sunday following Easter. This is a relatively new feast; it was established by Blessed Pope John Paul II at the canonization of Saint Faustina Kowalska in 2000. The Gospel read on Divine Mercy Sunday is about the institution of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, one of the great gifts of God’s mercy.
Divine Mercy Sunday
Scripture
Read John 20:19–23, which recounts Jesus’ first appearance to the gathered disciples.
HelPiNg yOur cHild uNderSTaNd Easter
© Our Sunday Visitor
Many in the assembly wear new clothing, a tradition based on the white robes worn by those newly baptized at the Easter Vigil.
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• At this age children are usually very willing to be witnesses; however, they need adult guides or mentors. • Most children at this age are interested in and capable of researching the cultural practices of Jesus’ times regarding death and burial. • Usually children at this age enjoy the stories and actions of the early Church found in the Acts of the Apostles.
Family Prayer Dear Lord, We want to witness to your Easter message. Show us ways to bring peace to each other and to the places we work and play. Give us the courage to forgive those who have hurt us this week, and open our hearts to ask forgiveness of those whom we may have hurt in word or deed. We ask this in your name. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
40 Alive in Christ, Grade 6 Easter
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Easter:
Ascension
Lesson objectives • Explore the story of the Ascension • Discuss mission
environment Prayer table Bible White cloth Clear glass bowl with holy water Small candles (one for each child), battery-powered • Set the prayer table with the cloth, the Bible, the bowl with holy water, and the candles. music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Cry the Gospel” “Rise Up with Him” “Yes, Lord I Believe” “Somos el Cuerpo de Cristo/We Are the Body of Christ” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Call to Family, Community, and Participation Pages 292–293 • Option for the Poor and Vulnerable Pages 296–297
Catechist Background [T]wo men dressed in white garments stood beside them. They said, … “This Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven will return in the same way as you have seen him going into heaven.” Acts 1:11 LLRefle t How does the Ascension and knowing that Jesus will return again help you live your life? The Feast of the Ascension celebrates the fact that Jesus who is both true God and true man is returning to the Father and will return again in the Second Coming. The Ascension is the fina piece of the Paschal Mystery, which also includes Jesus’ Passion, Crucifixion Death, burial, descent among the dead, and Resurrection. Along with the Resurrection, the Ascension was put forth as proof of Jesus’ claim that he was the Messiah. The Ascension is also the event in which humanity is taken into Heaven. It symbolizes the victory of Jesus Christ over the power of sin and death. Jesus’ fina admonition or challenge to his disciples to go into the world and continue his work was a statement of the mission of the Church and all the baptized. He intended that the Church and her individual members would let their light shine to the rest of the world by loving, caring for, and responding to the needs of others in order that through those actions “the world” would come to know a loving God in Jesus and his followers. The Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World states the mission of the Church well: “the Church… travels the same journey as all humanity and shares the same earthly lot: she is to be a leaven and, as it were, the soul of human society in its renewal by Christ and transformation into the family of God” (40). LLRefle t How do you see your role in the mission of the Church?
Catechist’s Prayer Jesus, during this special season, help me to experience the joy of your Resurrection and Ascension and to share your victory over sin and death with others. Amen.
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Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray the leader prayer; then have a volunteer pray aloud the Psalm verse. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Leader: Lord Jesus Christ, We come before you as your willing disciples we want to do your work here on Earth. Send your Holy Spirit as our guide and helper. In your name, we pray,
“All you peoples, clap your hands; shout to God with joyful cries.”
Psalm 47:1
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Say: In our prayer, we told the Risen Christ we were ready to do his work and we needed the Holy Spirit. In some ways we are in the same position as the disciples at Jesus’ Ascension.
Scripture “‘But you will receive power when the holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.’ When he had said this, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him from their sight. While they were looking intently at the sky as he was going, suddenly two men dressed in white garments stood beside them. They said, ‘Men of Galilee, why are you standing there looking at the sky? This Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven will return in the same way as you have seen him going into heaven.’” Acts 1:8–11
Scripture Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. • Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
What Do You Wonder? • What might the disciples have thought when they saw Jesus ascend to Heaven?
• When will Jesus come again?
• Proclaim the Scripture. • Maintain several moments of silence.
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Lectionary Connection
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• Ask: What did you hear God say to you today? • Invite volunteers to share.
What Do You Wonder?
Acts 1: 8–11 This reading is proclaimed as the first reading on the Feast of the Ascension. • These specific verses come right after the disciples ask if Jesus is going to restore the kingdom of Israel. The question implies that they still have not understood Jesus mission. But they are promised the Holy Spirit who will help them understand. • The Book of Acts refers to a period of forty days between Easter and the Ascension (1:3).
Say: In today’s reading, the disciples seem to be in awe or wonderment at what is happening. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about what the Ascension means.
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Discov er
Discover
The Commission
The Commission Say: Reflecting on the event of the Ascension reminds us that we, too, share in the mission to make disciples.
• On the Feast of the Ascension, the Church celebrates Jesus’ return to his Father in Heaven. • Ascension Thursday occurs forty days after Easter. In some dioceses and parishes, it is celebrated on the Seventh Sunday after Easter. • The priest wears white vestments because it is a feast of Jesus. • On the Feast of Ascension, the Church is reminded of its mission.
On the day of Ascension, Jesus returned to his Father in Heaven to sit at his right hand. The early Church community was left with the promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit, who would strengthen them to go out and continue Christ’s work to spread the Good News and help God’s Kingdom grow. This continues to be our work today.
Mission At Baptism, all Catholics are called to mission. Mission means “to be sent.” At Confirmation, you are sent to continue God’s work.You are not too young to do this. When Jeremiah told God he was too young to be a prophet, God said: “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you” (Jeremiah 1:7–8). Just as the disciples received the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, you receive the Holy Spirit at Baptism and Confirmation. The Holy Spirit is always there to help and guide you in the work of the mission at home, in school, or with your friends when you reach out to include, to heal, and to stand up for the rights of others.
• Have the children make comparisons to Jesus’ commission to the disciples at the Ascension.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Ask the children what it means when an artist or architect is commissioned to do something. They are given a task to create something that somebody wants.
The Ascension
LLHow is the Holy Spirit with us on our mission?
Have a volunteer read aloud the text.
Mission Read aloud the first three sentences. • Ask the children if they think they are too young to participate in the mission of Jesus. Have them explain their responses. Read aloud the rest of the text. • Discuss fears young people might have about doing the work of Christ. Have a volunteer find and read 1 Timothy 4:12. • Ask the group how they might “set an example for those who believe.” Have them silently review the copy in the side column. Music Option: While the children read, play “Rise Up with Him” or “Yes, Lord I Believe,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Call to Family, Community, and Participation, pages 292–293; or Option for the Poor and Vulnerable, pages 296–297. • To expand the lesson, complete page 42, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to the prayer on page 43.
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Celebrate the Ascension Celebrate the Ascension
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Have the children rehearse “Cry the Gospel,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Gather and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
Renewal of Baptismal Promises Leader: By water and the Holy Spirit, you received the gifts of faith and new life and were called to mission. Today, let us remember those promises together.
Gather the children for the celebration.
All: Come forward and gather around the water and candle. After each question, answer “I do.”
Follow the order of prayer on the student page.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Leader: Do you say “no” to sin, so that you can live always as God’s children? Do you believe in God, the Father almighty? Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord? Do you believe in the Holy Spirit? This is our faith. This is the faith of the Church. We are proud to profess it in Christ Jesus.
During the renewal of baptismal promises, direct the children to come forward individually and sign themselves with the holy water and receive a candle from you.
All: Amen.
• When you give each child a candle say, “You are the light of the world.”
Come forward, dip your finger in the holy water, and make the Sign of the Cross.
Go Forth! Leader: Loving God, send us forth to bring your love to others. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Have the children sing “Cry the Gospel” as they slowly leave the prayer space.
All: Amen. Sing “Cry the Gospel”
Alternate Music Option: “Somos el Cuerpo de Cristo/We Are the Body of Christ” 43
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Songs of Scripture Alive in Christ Jesus tells the Apostles, “I will be with you always.” Through Baptism we are joined to Christ and to one another in his Body.
Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
FA M I LY + FA I T H LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
Talking abOUT aSCenSiOn
CaTHOliC Family CUSTOmS
Catholics celebrate the Feast of Ascension Thursday forty days after Easter. In some dioceses and parishes the feast is moved from Thursday to the seventh Sunday of Easter. The Feast of the Ascension celebrates the Risen Jesus returning to his Father in Heaven. In the United States Ascension Thursday is a holy day of obligation.
Consider having your child earn money doing household tasks. Donate the money or goods purchased with it to an organization that helps the poor. Allow your child to go with you to make the donation.
Scripture
Read Acts 1:8–11, which describes the Ascension. How do you imagine that Jesus will return?
HelPing yOUr CHild UnderSTand Ascension
• Usually children this age understand the concept of being sent on a mission. • For the most part, children this age will appreciate projects aimed at outreach to the poor.
Family Prayer Pray this prayer together as a family during the days between Ascension Thursday and Pentecost Sunday.
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Ask the children to create a logo for “Team Jesus.” Vote on the logo that best communicates what it means to belong to the Body of Christ.
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Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful with the gifts we need to continue the work of Jesus in our daily life. We ask this in his name.
• Sing with the children “Alive in Christ.”
Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Use Songs of Scripture, Grades 4–6 CD, Track 23 44 Alive in Christ, Grade 6 Easter: Ascension
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Easter:
Pentecost
Lesson objectives • Reflect on Pentecost as an extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the begining of the Church • Explore the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
environment Prayer table Red cloth Bible with reading marked Small tree formed of wire or cardboard, or a blossoming tree branch, set in a tabletop stand Simple red cardboard pendants in the shape of flames, with the names of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit on them Bowl of holy water • Dress the prayer table with a red cloth, the Bible, the tree or branch, and the holy water. • Prepare flame pendants. Make several representing each gift. Suspend the pendants from the tree or branch on the prayer table. music options Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to sample and download, “Send Out Your Spirit” “Come to Us, Holy Spirit” “Holy Spirit” “Come, Holy Ghost” cAtHoLic sociAL teAcHinG • Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person Pages 294–295 • The Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers Pages 298–299
Catechist Background [Jesus] rejoiced [in] the holy Spirit and said, “I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise … you have revealed them to the childlike.” Luke10:21 LLRefle t Do you hear and see things differently because of your faith? The Feast of Pentecost is celebrated fi ty days after Easter. On this day, we recall the fire and wind with which the Holy Spirit came to the Apostles gathered in the upper room. The presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church today, as evidenced by his gifts given in Baptism and Confi mation, is also at the center of this celebration. Pentecost is one of the feasts of the liturgical year on which we celebrate the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. The liturgical celebration of Pentecost celebrates the Apostles’ mission to spread the message of Christ to all nations. The red vestments for the liturgy recall fire and the coming of the Holy Spirit. We sing songs that recall our commitment to the Church. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit help us grow as Christians in moral and spiritual well-being. We may often struggle with living out these gifts. Our lives are so busy that we must set aside time to recall and reevaluate our commitment to living out the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. LLRefle t How can you live the gifts of the Spirit in your everyday life?
Catechist’s Prayer Holy Spirit, just as you strengthened and guided the Apostles, strengthen me and help me sustain my interest in and enthusiasm for the work you have set before me. Amen.
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Invite
Pentecost
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Ask a volunteer to pray the leader prayer. Then pray aloud the Psalm verse as a group. After the prayer, have the children return to their seats.
Leader: Lord, send us the Gifts of the Holy Spirit that we may grow in unity and in strength as your followers and witnesses. We pray this in your name.
“I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God while I live.” Psalm 104:33
© Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Say: In today’s prayer, we asked for unity and strength from the Holy Spirit. Let’s listen now to Jesus’ words to his disciples.
Scripture “At that very moment [Jesus] rejoiced [in] the holy Spirit and said, ‘I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will.’
Scripture
Then turning to the disciples in private he said, ‘Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.’” Luke 10:21, 23–24
Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. • Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
What Do You Wonder? • Why does God reveal his truths to those who are like children?
• Do you hear and see things
• Proclaim the Scripture.
differently because of your faith?
• Maintain several moments of silence. • Ask: What did you hear God say to you today?
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Lectionary Connection Luke 10:21, 23–24 This Gospel reading is proclaimed during the first week of Advent. • In this reading, Jesus praises God for revealing his truth to those who are simple and humble, while the proud and educated still have trouble seeing. • This passage fits with Jesus’ teaching that we must become like children to enter the Kingdom. While some may rely on their own understanding or knowledge, the ones who realize they are dependent on God will know his will.
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• Invite volunteers to share.
What Do You Wonder? Say: Jesus invites us to think about faith—our response to his invitation to be his disciples. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about about the way our faith affects what we hear, see, and do.
Pentecost 45
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Discover
Discov er
Gifts of the Spirit Say: The gifts of the Holy Spirit will strengthen us to do Jesus’ work. We must, however, learn to recognize them before we can use them.
• Have the children calculate the date of Pentecost according to the celebration of Easter during the current year. • Ask the children if they can name the Gifts of the Holy Spirit that we are sealed with at Confirmation. • List their responses on the board or on chart paper. • Have the children check the list against the Gifts of the Holy Spirit listed on page 318 in the Our Catholic Tradition section of the Student Book. Invite a volunteer to read aloud the text. • Ask: What are some ways you have seen others live out the Gifts of the Holy Spirit? • Discuss the question as a group. Music Option: Have the group sing “Come to Us Holy Spirit,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Gifts of the Spirit
© Our Sunday Visitor
Write the word Pentecost on the board or on chart paper. Underline the prefix Pente. Ask the children what they think it means. Remind them that Pentecost is Greek for “fiftieth day.”
Pentecost is celebrated fifty days after Easter, when the Church celebrates the day the Holy Spirit came down on the Apostles and Mary. During Pentecost, the Church is also reminded that we continue the mission of Jesus in the world today. The Feast of Pentecost reminds you that, like the Apostles and Mary, you have received gifts from the Holy Spirit through the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. These gifts—wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord—are lasting qualities that help you grow in your spiritual and moral life, and in your relationships with God and with others. As you use the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, you become more open to the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life.
LLWhat are some ways you have seen others live out the Gifts of the Holy Spirit?
46 The Church Year
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Catechist Background Cultural Connection: The Dew of Pentecost In many Northern European countries, it is customary to walk barefoot through the dewy grass on Pentecost morning. • This custom is derived from a line in the traditional sequence, or liturgical hymn, for Pentecost, Veni Sancte Spiritus. • The hymn asks the Holy Spirit to refresh our spirits, saying, “on our dryness, pour your dew.”
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Led by the Spirit
Led by the Spirit
Read aloud the sentence.
Those who are led by the Holy Spirit show the Fruits of the Spirit in their lives.
Describe how each Fruit of the Spirit is seen in your life.
Fruits of the Spirit Have a volunteer read aloud the names of the Fruits of the Spirit.
Fruits of the Spirit Fruit of the Spirit
How it is shown in my words and actions
• Invite the children to think about how the Fruits and Gifts of the Spirit interact to help Christians grow in faith.
Charity Joy Peace
• Have the children describe how each Fruit of the Spirit can be seen in their lives.
Patience
© Our Sunday Visitor
Kindness Goodness Gentleness Faithfulness
Ask a volunteer to read aloud the activity directions.
Modesty Self-Control
• Provide time for the children to complete the activity.
Chastity
Music Option: While the children write, play “Holy Spirit,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Gifts of the Spirit In the space below, tell how you show in your words and actions the way you share one of these Gifts of the Holy Spirit. wisdom
understanding counsel fortitude
knowledge
piety
fear of the Lord
• Allow volunteers to share what they wrote.
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person, pages 294–295; or the Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers, pages 298–299. • To expand the lesson, complete page 47, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to the prayer on page 48.
Pentecost 47
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Live
L iv e
Celebrate the Holy Spirit
Celebrate the Holy Spirit
Today you will pray for the Gifts of the Spirit in a celebration of the Word.
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray Gather and sing together the refrain.
Explain the prayer format.
Pray the Sign of the Cross together.
Leader: Light and peace in Jesus Christ our Lord, Alleluia.
Prepare
All: Thanks be to God, Alleluia.
Choose a reader. You will be the leader.
Leader: Let us pray. Bow your heads as the leader prays. © Our Sunday Visitor
All: Amen.
Have the children rehearse “Send Out Your Spirit,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Listen to God’s Word Reader: A reading from the Acts of the Apostles. Read Acts 2:1–11.
The word of the Lord.
Invite the children to gather around the prayer table and make the Sign of the Cross with holy water.
All: Thanks be to God. Take a moment to listen for the Spirit in the Word of God.
Dialogue
Pray
How do you think the Apostles felt on Pentecost? What examples can you find to illustrate the Gifts of the Holy Spirit alive in the Church today?
Follow the order of prayer on the student pages. Have the children raise their hands in the orans posture as you pray the opening prayer. Leader’s prayer: Come Holy Spirit, set our hearts on fire. Anoint us and guide us to use your gifts to continue Christ’s mission.
Listen to God’s Word Invite the children to be seated around the prayer table.
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Liturgy Link Humble Prayer
• Have the reader proclaim the Scripture.
The orans position is the posture for the children’s celebration. The position requires the children to extend their hands with palms facing upwards.
• Follow the reading with a moment of silent reflection.
• This posture is traditional in the ancient world and indicates pleading and humility.
Dialogue
• Early Christian tomb art depicts believers praying in this position.
Have the children discuss the questions in small groups.
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Choosing a Gift Invite the children to stand. • Have the reader them in praying the prayers. Instruct him/her to pause after each prayer for prayer for the group response.
Choosing a Gift Respond to each prayer with these words.
• Ask the children to proceed to the prayer table to choose a flame pendant with a gift written on it.
All: Come, Holy Spirit, lead us in the way of Jesus.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Reader: Holy Spirit, let the way of Jesus be our joy and join us on every step of our journey. Holy Spirit, may we be like trees planted near streams and grow strong in faith, nourished by your gifts. Holy Spirit, help us always remember that the Father watches over us as we follow the path of his Son.
• Invite them to sing “Send Out Your Spirit” as they choose their gifts.
All: As you proceed to the table, sing “Send Out Your Spirit.”
• Lead the children in praying the Lord’s Prayer. Encourage them to use the orans posture again.
Leader: At the Savior’s command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say: All: Our Father …
Go Forth!
Go Forth!
Have the children put on their pendants.
Bow your heads as the leader prays.
Leader: Go forth with the confidence that the Holy Spirit is with you and is giving you what you need to walk the path of faith.
Pray the prayer of dismissal. Sing with the children “Send Out Your Spirit.”
All: Thanks be to God. Sing “Send Out Your Spirit.”
Alternate Music Option: “Come Holy Ghost” 49
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Distribute this page to the children or parents/adult family members.
Optional Activity The Fruits of the Spirit
Bodily/Kinesthetic
Have the children work in pairs to come up with role-play situations applicable to sixth graders that demonstrate the Fruits of the Spirit. • Allow time for partners to act out their role-plays.
LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
Talking abOUT PenTeCOST
CaTHOliC Family CUSTOmS
The Feast of Pentecost marks the end of the Easter Season. It occurs fifty days after Easter. The word Pentecost is from the Greek and means “fiftieth day.” This feast, which commemorates the coming of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles and the Virgin Mary, is also traditionally celebrated as the birth of the Church. On this day, we celebrate the gifts that the Holy Spirit has given each of us in Baptism and Confirmation, so that we can be strengthened to continue witnessing to the Risen Lord in our daily lives.
Pray together as a family for all who have received Confirmation and been sealed with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. For nine days, pray a short prayer to the Holy Spirit, each day asking the Holy Spirit to come into their hearts, families, and lives, strengthening in them and us a different gift or fruit of the Holy Spirit.
Sealed with the Gifts
Scripture
Read Luke 10:21–24, in which Jesus points out that God reveals his secrets to the young and to those with open minds and hearts. Those secrets are precious to those who know them.
HelPing yOUr CHild UnderSTand Pentecost
• Most children this age relate very well to the power of the Holy Spirit. • Usually children are interested in the Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit as they relate to them as individuals. • Because children this age often experience changes and growth in their friendships, they can relate to the idea of a growing relationship with God.
Family Prayer During the week between Pentecost and the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity, pray this prayer together daily:
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Have the rest of the group guess which qualities are being represented by each pair.
FA M I LY + FA I T H
Come Holy Spirit, set our hearts on fire, Anoint us with your Spirit. Guide us to use your gifts to continue the mission of Jesus. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
50 Alive in Christ, Grade 6 Easter: Pentecost
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Pentecost 49–50
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Units At A Glance
© Our Sunday Visitor
U N I T 1 : Revelation Chapter 1: Divine Revelation Chapter 2: The Creation Accounts Chapter 3: God’s Faithfulness
52 53 63 73
U N I T 2 : Trinity Chapter 4: Journeys of Faith Chapter 5: God’s Saving Action Chapter 6: Living the Covenant
86 87 97 107
U N I T 3 : Jesus Christ Chapter 7: Leaders for God’s People Chapter 8: The Wisdom of God Chapter 9: Prophetic Promise
120 121 131 141
U N I T 4 : The Church Chapter 10: The Gospel Message Chapter 11: The Early Church Chapter 12: The Body of Christ
154 155 165 175
U N I T 5 : Morality Chapter 13: The Great Commandment Chapter 14: Justice and Peace Chapter 15: Sin and Forgiveness
188 189 199 209
U N I T 6 : Sacraments Chapter 16: Baptized for Mission Chapter 17: Lives of Service Chapter 18: Sharing God’s Love
222 223 233 243
U N I T 7 : Kingdom of God Chapter 19: The Communion of Saints Chapter 20: Christian Unity Chapter 21: A New Creation
256 257 267 277
51
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UNIT
1
Revelation ytinirT Tr Our Catholic Tradition
Pope Francis celebrates his inaugural Mass inside the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican. © Our Sunday Visitor
• We come to know what God is like from Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. (CCC, 97)
• In both, God reveals himself and his
Jesus Christ
desire for us to live in friendship with him. (CCC, 74, 80)
• Through the accounts of creation and
the establishment of the covenant, we learn that God is faithful. (CCC, 346)
• By sending his Son, Jesus, God the
eh T
hcruhC Ch
Father reveals himself to us in ways we never would have known. (CCC, 151)
Why is it important to study and pray God’s written Word in the Old Testament?
ca MoralitystnemarSac
52 52 Alive in Christ Unit 1: Revelation
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MA 52:01 3
Unit 1 Overview Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Divine Revelation . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
The Creation Accounts . . . . . . . . 63
God’s Faithfulness . . . . . . . . . . . 73
The children will:
The children will:
The children will:
recognize that the Bible presents the story of God’s presence and his saving plan for his People define salvation as the loving action of God’s forgiveness of sins and the restoration of friendship with him brought by Jesus examine how the Bible writers used different literary forms to tell stories of God’s presence and action compare God’s faithfulness to Ruth’s faithfulness to Naomi recall that God is faithful and wants you to live with him forever Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Call to Family, Community, and Participation, Pages 292–293
recall that the two accounts of creation teach that God alone is the Creator and that humans are his creatures
describe faithfulness as the loyalty and steadfastness that God shows to all humans even when they sin
consider what it means to be made in God’s image
discover that the first man and woman brought sin and death into the world through free choice
recognize that the first man and woman were created by God in a state of Original Holiness, or grace develop a desire to seek God’s truth and share in his life define eternity as time without end and new life beyond death Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Life and Dignity of the Human Person, Pages 290–291 Care for God’s Creation, Pages 302–303
Solidarity of the Human Family, Pages 300–301
identify one of the effects of sin as separation from God recognize that Jesus is the “new Adam” because he makes amends for the disobedience of Adam develop a deeper understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of the covenant Songs of Scripture
“Where Are You, Adam?” Catholic Social Teaching: Live Your Faith
Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person, Pages 294–295 Solidarity of the Human Family, Pages 300–301
Preview Unit Theme Ask: What is the unit theme? Confirm that the unit focus is on Revelation. Read aloud the four bullet points under the Our Catholic Tradition heading. Explain that the the children will learn about these things as you cover the next three chapters.
Have the children study the photos on the page. Ask volunteers which photo they think matches up with Scripture and which matches up with Tradition.
Ask: Why is it important to study and pray God’s written Word in the Old Testament? After some discussion, explain that the group will be answering this question and more as they explore the content in Unit 1.
Unit 1 Overview 52A
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Chapter 1
Divine Revelation
Key ConCept God reveals himself and his plan of salvation through Sacred Scripture, the inspired Word of God written by humans. An important truth of Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition is that God is faithful and wants us to live with him forever. DoCtRInAL Content • The Bible presents the story of God’s presence and of his saving plan for his People. (CCC, 50)
• Salvation is the loving action of God’s forgiveness of sins and the restoration of friendship of friendship with him brought by Jesus. (CCC, 51–55) • The Bible writers used different literary forms to tell stories of God’s presence and action. (CCC, 110) • God is faithful and wants all people to live with him forever. (CCC, 205) tAsKs of CAteChesIs Helping children grow in a faith that is “known, celebrated, lived, and expressed in prayer” (NDC, 20). This chapter focuses on the following task of catechesis: • Promoting Knowledge of the Faith
Catechist Background The Lord’s word is upright; all his works are trustworthy. Psalm 33:4 LLRefle t How can you open your heart more to hear God’s Word as it applies to you today? God wants humans to know him and to love him. His revelation to the Israelites is recorded in the stories the Chosen People told about his activity in their lives. God inspired writers to record these stories so that more people would also come to know about God and follow him. These sacred writings are known by Christians as the Old Testament. Through the power and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, some of Christ’s followers were inspired to write down stories about his life and teachings. The Church combined the inspired writings of the Old Testament with the inspired writings of the New Testament into the canon of the Bible. Because God is actually the author of the Bible, this Sacred Scripture teaches without error the truths that are necessary for our salvation. In addition to the written Word of God, the Church also relies on the message of Christ shared directly with the Apostles. The Apostles passed down all they learned from Christ and what they received from the Holy Spirit to their successors, the bishops. This is called Apostolic or Sacred Tradition. Assisted by the Holy Spirit and relying on the truth of Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, the Church can guide believers, with certainty, to know God more deeply and to understand and accept his plan of salvation. Refle t How important is Scripture in your spiritual life?
Catechist’s Prayer Loving God, strengthen me as I teach your love to your People. Give me a love both for the children in my care and for what I am teaching them. Help me be prayerful, hopeful, refle tive, and faithful to you. Amen.
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Lesson Plan Objectives
Process
Materials
Invite, 10 minutes Divine Revelation Page 53
Isaiah 40:8 Pray the opening prayer. Psalm 33:4–9 Refle t prayerfully on the Word. • Discuss What Do You Wonder questions.
Optional Activity Chapter Story: “Family Stories”
Discover, 35 minutes God Makes Himself Known Pages 54–55 • Recognize that the Bible presents the story of God’s presence and his saving plan for his People • Defin salvation as the loving action of God’s forgiveness of sins and the restoration of friendship with him brought by Jesus
• Catholic Faith Words Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, Divine Revelation • Discuss why it is important for a family to remember its stories. • Describe how God’s plan is revealed.
Different Types of Writing in the Bible Pages 56–57 • Examine how the Bible writers used different literary forms to tell stories of God’s presence and action • Compare God’s faithfulness to Ruth’s faithfulness to Naomi • Recall that God is faithful and wants you to live with him forever
• Learn about the literary forms used in the Bible.
pencils or pens board or chart paper Bibles
• Share Your Faith Activity List some favorite Bible stories.
Circle types of literary forms.
pencils or pens Bibles
Ruth 1:1–16 Proclaim “Ruth and Naomi.” • Discuss the importance of Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi and how her faithfulness compares to God’s faithfulness. • Connect Your Faith Activity Read the passages and determine the literary form for each.
Live, 15 minutes Our Catholic Life Pages 58–59
• Explain how the Bible applies to daily life. • People of Faith Learn about Saint Teresa of Ávila. • Live Your Faith Activity Explain how a truth from the Bible can make a difference.
Celebrating the Gift of God’s Word Page 60
• Optional Activity Discover God’s Message Activity Master 1 (Page 53E)
• Select four readers.
Bible
• Practice “Your Words are Spirit and Life.”
gold and brown wrapping paper
• Follow the order of prayer.
Download “Your Words Are Spirit and Life.”
Family + Faith Page 61 Point out that the Catholic Families page provides chapter highlights, information on how sixth graders understand faith concepts, and family prayer.
Chapter Review Page 62
aliveinchrist.osv.com • Customize and Download Assessments • Email Links to eAssessments • Interactive Student Reviews
Divine Revelation 53B
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Teaching This Grade Online resOurces http://www.aliveinchrist.osv.com
Sharing the Message with Sixth Graders Sacred Scripture Sixth graders are able to understand that Scripture is the inspired Word of God written in human language. Their growing understanding of history and culture assists them in placing Scripture in context, and when children this age know about various biblical writers, they are able to see how personality, circumstance, and literary form influen ed the style of each book of the Bible. Teaching Tip: Make use of Bible timelines and talk about the cultural context in which the writing is taking place to help ensure an accurate understanding of the message of Scripture.
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com
You will find: • Interactive lesson planning with web specific content and additional activities • Step by step lesson instruction from printed Catechist Edition for integrated lesson planning • Custom-built assessments to download and eAssessment links • Interactive reviews that provide scores and the option to review answers • Sunday readings with background and questions of the week Go to osvparish.com
You will find: • Ask the Experts Q and A • General Catechist Helps • Community Connections and Blogs
How Sixth Graders Understand • Some children this age get bored fairly quickly. Vary the activities to keep their attention. • Help the children make friends with each other by involving them in activities that include group work. • Most children adapt to new places and new people more easily when they feel confide t. Showing them that you respect them and their ideas can help build their confiden e.
“Sometimes I get bored. Help me stay connected with different activities.”
53C Chapter 1
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Chapter Connections Chapter Story
Invite
“Family Stories” Use this story to expand the chapter introduction.
• The children will enjoy reliving family stories as they contemplate what happened and when and where the story took place. • They will share some of their own favorite family stories with a partner. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com Lesson Planning section for
Year A Third Sunday of Advent— Deliverance
this story.
NCEA IFG: ACRE Edition
Discover
Knowledge of the Faith
• Objective: To know and understand basic Catholic teaching about the Incarnate Word Jesus Christ as the way, truth, and life
Catholic Social Teaching
Lectionary connection Chapter 1 highlights Lectionary-connected themes such as salvation, Scripture, Tradition, and God’s faithfulness. If your parish aligns its curriculum to the liturgical year, you could use this chapter in connection with the following Sundays.
Live
Use one of these features to introduce a principle and engage the children with an activity.
• Call to Family, Community, and Participation, Pages 292–293 • Solidarity of the Human Family, Pages 300–301
Music Options Use one or more of the following songs to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer.
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time—Understanding Scripture Year B Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord—Salvation
Fourth Sunday of Easter— Salvation through Jesus Year C Second Sunday of Advent—All people will see God’s salvation.
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary time—Laying Up Treasures Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for a complete correlation ordered by the Sundays of the year and suggestions for how to integrate the Scripture readings into chapter lessons.
• “Your Words Are Spirit and Life,” Live Prayer, Page 60 • “Open My Eyes,” Discover, Page 55 • “O God, You Search Me,” Discover, Page 56 • “Holy Spirit, Live in Us,” Live, Page 60
Divine Revelation 53D
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Activity Master
Name
Date
Discover God’s Message God speaks through all of the literary forms of the Bible. Read the following passages from the Bible. Then write a summary of God’s message on the lines below.
Folktale Genesis 11:1–9
Historical Account 2 Samuel 7:8–17
Parable Mark 4:1–20
© Our Sunday Visitor
Psalms/Canticles Psalm 104:10–15.
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CHAPTER
1
I nv ite
Divine Revelation
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space and make the Sign of the Cross. Read aloud the leader’s prayer. Proclaim the verse from Isaiah together.
Leader: Your Word, O Lord, is light and life.Your Word speaks volumes to the heart.
“The word of our God stands forever.”
Isaiah 40:8
All: Fill us with joy and anticipation for your Word, O Lord. Amen.
Have the children move out of the prayer space and back to their seats.
Scripture © Our Sunday Visitor
Invite
The Lord’s word is upright; all his works are trustworthy. He loves justice and right. The earth is full of the mercy of the Lord. By the Lord’s word the heavens were made; by the breath of his mouth all their host. He gathered the waters of the sea as a mound; he sets the deep into storage vaults. Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all who dwell in the world show him reverence. For he spoke, and it came to be, commanded, and it stood in place.
Say: God’s words do more than give us information or offer us instruction. With his Word, God made the world. We listen to God’s Word not just to learn who he is but to be shaped it. Listen to how powerful God’s words are in this Scripture passage.
Psalm 33:4–9
Scripture Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection.
What Do You Wonder?
• Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
• Why is it important to share stories of faith?
• How can you open your heart to hear God’s Word?
Divine Revelation 53
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Optional Activity Chapter Story: “Family Stories”
• Maintain several moments of silence. • Ask: What did you hear God say to you today?
Verbal/Linguistic
Use this story after the opening prayer, before discussing God’s Word. • Have the children silently read the story. Then discuss the importance of family stories and storytellers. • Invite the children to draw several frames of a cartoon strip depicting a favorite story. Display the drawings in the area. • After connecting how we learn about family and God through stories, transition back to the lesson instruction. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Chapter Story.
• Invite volunteers to share.
What Do You Wonder? Say: Imagine if you could say something and it happened. If you said “cat,” the word itself would become a cat. That’s something like what God’s Word is like. Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about God’s Word and what it means to us today. Divine Revelation 53
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Discover
Discov er
God Makes Himself Known How do we learn about God and his plan?
Objectives
Stories help families remember what binds them together. Stories can do the same thing for communities and nations. April is a Native American girl who lives with her grandparents in a pueblo near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her grandparents are introducing April to the traditions of the Navajo people.
• Recognize that the Bible presents the story of God’s presence and his saving plan for his People • Define salvation as the loving
The Storyteller April loved to hear the stories that her grandparents told about the Navajo people. From these colorful tales, she gained knowledge about her roots, respect for all creation, and wisdom for living. Today her grandmother was going to teach her something unique about her people!
action of God’s forgiveness of sins and the restoration of friendship with him brought by Jesus
Grandmother said, “Our people have always loved stories. They show this by making storyteller figures. Let’s make one.”
Ask: How do we learn about God and his plan?
Navajo storyteller dolls are often handmade and shared in families to keep their tradition alive.
• Prompt responses if needed. the Bible, our parents, the Church, at Mass, faith formation
Grandmother continued, “The main figure of the Storyteller is that of a woman. Her mouth is open because she is speaking, and her eyes may be closed as if she is remembering experiences from an earlier time. Attached to the woman are many children. Crowding around the Storyteller, they listen to the stories of history and of the wonders of creation.”
© Our Sunday Visitor
God Makes Himself Known
LLWhy is it important for a family or a nation to remember its stories?
• Record responses on the board or on chart paper. • Say: At home and in Mass, in faith formation, and in the parish, we hear stories of faith that teach us about God and what it means to be Catholic. God’s own Son, Jesus, was a masterful storyteller. Let’s look at why stories are important. Read aloud the first paragraph. • Remind the children that stories have a way of binding families and communities together.
The Storyteller Have the children silently read the text. • Ask them why storytellers are important. Possible response: They tell stories of history and teach about things that matter. • Invite responses to the question at the bottom of the page.
54 Chapter 1
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Catechist Background The Storyteller Jesus himself was a master storyteller. He often replied to questions by telling stories. He used parables to teach about the Kingdom of God so that people could grow to understand its meaning by relating the stories to their own experiences. • Jesus is more than a storyteller—He is the Word of God, God’s very Revelation. • In his words and actions, Jesus tells the story of God, revealing more of who God is and who we are called to be.
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Stories of our Faith
Stories of Our Faith The stories of our Catholic faith are told in the Bible and continued in the Church. Many of the stories in the Bible were passed down orally from generation to generation before God inspired the human authors to write them down. Over a period of more than six centuries, various people wrote the books of the Bible.
© Our Sunday Visitor
The Bible, or Sacred Scripture, is God’s Word, written by humans acting under the Holy Spirit’s inspiration and guidance. The Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church, to preserve and teach God’s Revelation. The Church interprets and hands down the message of the Word of God for future generations through her Sacred Tradition so all can know and apply God’s wisdom to their lives. Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition together are the source of God’s Divine Revelation, or communication about himself. God, the principal author of the Bible, inspired its human authors.
Learning about God’s Plan By words and actions, God has made himself known gradually and in stages. He gave the Scripture writers the gift of the Holy Spirit to write faithfully about his saving truth.
Summarize the first three paragraphs.
Faith Words Sacred Scripture the Word of God written by humans acting under the Holy Spirit’s inspiration and guidance; another name for the Bible Sacred Tradition God’s Word to the Church, safeguarded by the Apostles and their successors, the bishops, and handed down verbally—in her Creeds, Sacraments, and other teachings—to future generations Divine Revelation the process by which God makes himself known. The chief sources of Divine Revelation are Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition.
Work with Words Write the Catholic Faith Words on the board or on chart paper. Have volunteers read aloud the definitions from the box.
Learning about God’s Plan Have the children silently read the two paragraphs. Music Option: While the children read, play “Open My Eyes,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
The Bible presents the story of God’s presence and of his loving plan of goodness and actions for his People. After many centuries, God fully revealed his plan of salvation by sending his Son, Jesus, and then, by sending the Holy Spirit as Jesus promised his disciples.
Provide more information on the Bible by referring the children to page 304 of the Our Catholic Tradition section in the Student Book.
Reflect Name one of your favorite Bible stories.
Draw the graphic organizer shown below as you explain how Scripture and Tradition reveal God’s plan.
Share Share this story with a partner. Explain why it is your favorite and what it tells you about God.
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• Have the children pick a partner to share their favorite Bible story with.
Quick Tip Graphic Organizer
• Encourage partners to explain to one another why the story they shared is their favorite and what it tells them about God.
Sacred Scripture
Beginning of Time
God’s Plan Revealed
Read aloud the instructions.
Eternity
Quick Review Sacred Tradition
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Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition together are the source of God’s Divine Revelation.
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Discover
Discov er
Different Types of Writing in the Bible
Objectives
What are some of the literary forms used in the Bible?
• Examine how the Bible writers
The Bible writers used different literary forms, or styles of writing, to tell the truth God wanted to share with us. Some writers composed poems, and some wrote historical accounts. Others recorded wise sayings or messages from God that had been spoken by the prophets.
used different literary forms to tell stories of God’s presence and action • Compare God’s faithfulness to Ruth’s faithfulness to Naomi • Recall that God is faithful and wants you to live with him forever
Forms are names given to the different styles of writing found in the Bible. Here are some of the different kinds of writing found in the Bible. The descriptions tell the characteristics of the writing style, and the examples are books or stories in the Bible that demonstrate the literary form.
Circle which of these literary forms you like to read. Explain your choices.
Letters Messages addressed to early Christians by the Apostles and their followers Example: The Letters of Paul
Different Types of Writing in the Bible Have a volunteer explain what a literary form is. Complete the explanation as needed.
Psalms and Canticles Poems and prayers that were once sung Example: The Book of Psalms
Ask someone else to read aloud the first two paragraphs.
Historical Accounts Accounts written to reveal God’s activity in the world Examples: The Books of Chronicles, Kings, and Acts
• Explain the different forms of writing by having the children look at various examples in the Bible. • Instruct the children to circle the types of literary forms they like to read. • Encourage volunteers to share their choices and explain why they chose what they did. You might also ask those who wish to do so to share an example from the Bible. Music Option: As the children complete the activity, play “O God, You Search Me,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Apocalyptic Literature A form of writing that describes the destruction of evil and the coming of God’s Reign Example: The Book of Revelation
© Our Sunday Visitor
Short Stories Stories told to show how virtuous people live Example: Joseph and his brothers
Traditional Stories Old stories changed and expanded by biblical writers to teach certain truths about God Example: The Book of Ruth
Parables Short stories told to answer a question or illustrate a deeper point Examples: The Prodigal Son, The Sower
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Quick Tip Group Participation Some children may be uncomfortable reading and sharing aloud. Create an open and accepting space to help these children become more comfortable. • Allow time for the children to share both oral and written responses in groups, with partners, and individually. • Never criticize a response. • Always thank the children for participating.
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God’s Message
God’s Message
Point out that God is the author of all Scripture, since he inspired the human writings to record his truths and reveal what he wants us to know about himself.
God speaks through all of the literary forms of the Bible. A very important truth of both Scripture and Tradition is that God is faithful and wants you to live with him forever. Scripture and Tradition contain the truths that guide your life. This passage is about one woman’s coming to believe in God.
Scripture
Have the children silently read the first paragraph.
Ruth and Naomi
© Our Sunday Visitor
Naomi and her husband left the land of Judah and settled in Moab. Her husband died and her two sons married women from Moab. Eventually, Naomi’s sons also died. So she decided to return to Judah.
Scripture
Her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, wanted to go with her, but Naomi told them, “Go back, each of you to your mother’s house. May the Lord show you the same kindness as you have shown to the deceased and to me.” Orpah went to her home, but Ruth remained.
Select volunteers to read the parts of a narrator, Naomi, and Ruth. Have them proclaim the Scripture.
Ruth said to Naomi, “Do not press me to go back and abandon you! Wherever you go I will go, wherever you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.”
• Invite the children to share their responses to the question that follows the Scripture passage.
Based on Ruth 1:1–16
LLWhat does Ruth’s decision to remain with Naomi teach you?
Learn About God Read the passages below. What is the literary form of each passage? What is God’s message to you in each passage? Exodus 19:1–7 historical
Have a volunteer read aloud the directions.
account
Luke 12:16–21 parable
Revelation 11:15–19
• Arrange the children in three groups.
apocalyptic literature
• Assign each group one of the passages; allow time for them to answer the questions. • Ask each small group to share its responses with the larger group.
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Scripture Background The Book of Ruth The people in the Book of Ruth show great fidelity and loyalty to one another and to God. Ruth, who was not Jewish, was incorporated into the Jewish community through marriage to Naomi’s son.
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Quick Review As the author of all Scripture, God speaks through all of the literary forms used by the human writers of the Bible. God is faithful and wants us to live with him forever.
• Ruth remained faithful to her mother-in-law, Naomi, even after the death of her husband. • After returning to Judah, Ruth married Boaz, a Jewish man. • Through her son from this second marriage, Ruth became an ancestor of King David.
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Live
L iv e
Our Catholic Life How does the Bible apply to your daily life?
Our Catholic Life Invite a volunteer to read aloud the question at the top of the page and elicit responses. • Write the responses on the board or on chart paper. Summarize the introductory paragraph.
Make sure the children understand Lectio Divina and how to incorporate this exercise into their own prayer life. • Point out that during each lesson they will begin with a prayerful reflection on Scripture similar to Lectio Divina.
The exercise below is based on the Church’s practice of Lectio Divina, which means “divine reading.” It is a meditative reading of Scripture that leads us to prayer.
A Simple Reading Plan Obtain a list of the Church’s Scripture readings for each day from your parish bulletin. Look up the readings for the day. Begin your time with God with a short prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you. © Our Sunday Visitor
A Simple Reading Plan
Make a commitment to follow this plan for two days this week. How did your reading and prayer apply to your life?
It is important that you make the Bible a part of your daily life. One way to do this is to devote a short time each day to prayer and Bible reading.You may wish to do this in the morning before going to school, or in the evening before going to bed.
Open the Bible to the passages indicated for the day. • The first reading during the week may be from the Old Testament, the Acts of the Apostles, one of the letters in the New Testament, or Revelation. • O n Sundays, the first reading is usually from the Old Testament and the second reading from one of the Letters. • The final reading is from one of the Gospels. It will tell you about Jesus. The final reading is from one of the Gospels. It will tell you about Jesus. Choose one of the readings. Put yourself into the reading. When the reading is from a Letter, imagine that the Letter is written to you. When you read from the Gospels, imagine that you are a part of the scene. End your time with a prayer of thanksgiving and praise to God for what you have learned from the Bible.
• Encourage the children to choose a time at home to put this plan into practice and to follow the plan for two days. • At the next session, ask volunteers to share how the reading and prayers applied to their life. • Have the children turn to pages 320–325 in the Our Catholic Tradition section of the Student Book for more prayers they can incorporate into their daily lives.
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Optional Activity Activity Master 1: Discover God’s Message Distribute copies of the activity found on catechist page 53E.
• As an alternative, you may wish to send this activity home with the children.
Date
Discover God’s Message God speaks through all of the literary forms of the Bible. Read the following passages from the Bible. Then write a summary of God’s message on the lines below. Psalms/Canticles Psalm 104:10–15.
Folktale Genesis 11:1–9
Historical Account 2 Samuel 7:8–17
Parable Mark 4:1–20
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Have the children write summaries of God’s messages on the lines provided.
Activity Master
Name
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People of Faith
People of Faith
Tell the children about Saint Teresa of Ávila
October 15
Saint Teresa of Ávila, 1515-1582 Saint Teresa was born in Spain. After she had been a nun in a Carmelite monastery for twenty years, she dedicated herself to reforming many Carmelite convents, which were not as holy as they could be. One of the first things she did was write new rules based on God’s Word in Scripture, particularly the teachings of Jesus and the Commandments. Teresa understood that it was important to listen and learn from God’s Word in order to lead a good and holy life. She was serious about God, but also knew it was important to laugh and have fun. She used to dance in the convents to make the other sisters happy.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Discuss: When do you listen and learn from God’s Word?
Learn more about Saint Teresa at aliveinchrist.osv.com
• Explain that Saint Teresa understood that it was important to obey God’s laws in order to lead a good and holy life. That’s why it made sense for her to help reform many Carmelite convents, which were not as holy as they could be. • Share that one of the first things Saint Teresa did was write new rules based on teachings of Jesus as well as the Ten Commandments.
Think about a truth you’ve learned from the Bible that has helped you know more about who God is or how he wants you to live. Explain, with words or illustration, how knowing this makes a difference in how you act with family or friends.
• Say: But even though she was serious about God, Saint Teresa knew it was also important to laugh. So she used to dance in the convents to make the other sisters happy. • Ask volunteers to answer the Discuss question. Encourage the children to go to aliveinchrist.osv.com at home to learn more about Saint Teresa of Ávila.
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Call to Family, Community, and Participation, pages 292–293; or Solidarity of the Human Family, pages 300–301.
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Review the instructions for the Live Your Faith activity. • Allow time for the children to complete their explanation or illustration.
• Start the Live step of the process by talking about Saint Teresa of Ávila on page 59. Then move directly to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Or, to expand the lesson, complete both pages 58 and 59, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to Chapter 1 for the prayer on page 60.
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Live
L iv e Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray Celebrating the Gift of God’s Word
Celebrating the Gift of God’s Word As we begin this new year, we celebrate the gift of God’s Word to us in Scripture, an ancient and precious gift that is alive in our lives today.
Explain to the children that this prayer will celebrate the gift of God’s Word to us in Scripture, an ancient gift, a precious gift, which is alive in our lives today.
Leader: We gather to celebrate one of God’s gifts to us: his Word written to us in Scripture. Based on Psalm 19:8–11 Reader 1: Our treasure is wrapped in brown paper to remind us that this is an old book, one that spans three thousand years. Some parts are so old that they were told even before people knew how to read and write. We wonder what the stories inside this book meant to the first people who heard them. What do the stories in our Bible mean for us today?
Prepare
All: We do praise and thank God for our Bible. Reader 3: We think of gold as the most valuable thing there is, but this treasure is more valuable than gold because it is God’s Word and guidance for our lives. Even gold cannot buy these things.
• Select four readers.
Reader 4: Let us praise God for this valuable treasure.
Rehearse with the children “Your Words Are Spirit and Life,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Invite the children to process to the prayer space while playing or singing the song. Have one child carry the Bible wrapped in paper. Have the children bring their books.
Pray Follow the order of prayer on the student page. • After the second reading, reverently unwrap the Bible to show the gold paper. As the third reader reads, remove the gold paper and raise the Bible for all to see. Conclude by singing with the children “Your Words Are Spirit and Life.” Alternate Music Option: “Holy Spirit, Live in Us.”
© Our Sunday Visitor
Reader 2: Let us praise God for this treasure and its stories of our faith.
Prepare a Bible by wrapping it first in gold wrapping paper then brown wrapping paper.
Gather
Gather and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
All: We do praise and thank God for our Bible. Leader: We gather to celebrate one of God’s great gifts to us: his Word written to us in Scripture.
Read Matthew 13:1–9.
The Gospel of the Lord. All: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Sing “Your Words Are Spirit and Life”
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Liturgy Link Movement in Prayer Invite interested children to add reverent gestures or movements to the prayer, the responses, or the song refrain. • Use of these movements allows young people to express their prayer, especially one of celebration, in ways other than speech. • Allow time for the children to prepare and rehearse the gestures or movements before the prayer service. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Sunday readings, Scripture background, questions of the week, and seasonal resources.
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FA M I LY + FA I T H
Family + Faith
LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
your child learned
consider this
This chapter explains Divine Revelation and that the Bible reveals God’s plan of goodness and salvation for us, a plan fulfilled by Jesus.
When did you last need someone to save you from a situation that you created?
Scripture
Read Psalm 33:4–9 to find out about God’s Word and what it means to and for us.
Catholics Believe
• God reveals himself and his plan of salvation through Sacred Scripture, the inspired Word of God written by humans. • A very important truth of both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition is that God is faithful and wants you to live with him forever. To learn more, go to the Catechism of the Catholic Church #51–55, 214 at usccb.org.
let’s talk
• Ask your child to describe ways God makes himself known to us in our lives. • Discuss ways your family connects with Sacred Scripture in your parish community and at home.
People of Faith
© Our Sunday Visitor
Distribute the page to the children or parents/adult family members. Point out the chapter highlights, insights on how sixth graders understand concepts, the opportunity for the adults to reflect on their own experience and faith journey, and the family prayer.
Whatever our age, our words and actions can sometimes get us into situations we cannot fix alone. We need to ask for help. As Catholics, we know that “each of us inherits Original Sin, but it is not a personal fault of ours” (USCCA, p. 70). Because of the unity of the human race, everyone is affected by the sin of [Adam and Eve], just as ... humanity is restored to a right relationship with God by Jesus Christ.
This week, your child learned about Saint Teresa of Ávila, who was very practical in establishing rules for her convents, based on God’s Word.
children at this age
let’s pray
How They Understand Sacred Scripture Your child is able to understand that Scripture is the inspired Word of God written in human language. His or her growing understanding of history and culture assists your child in placing Scripture in context, and when children this age know about various biblical writers, they are able to see how personality, circumstance, and literary form influenced the style of each book of the Bible.
Saint Teresa, pray for us that we may follow your example of listening and learning from God’s Word, in our hearts and in our homes. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
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Chapter Review
Chapter 1 Review A
Work with Words Complete each statement. 1. The Bible writers used different
literary forms
to tell the truth God
Use Catechist Quick Reviews to highlight lesson concepts.
wanted to share. 2. Scripture and
Tradition
contain truths that guide your life.
3. Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition are the sources of God’s
A Work with Words Instruct the children to complete each statement.
Divine Revelation . 4. The names of Naomi’s two daughters-in-law are
Orpah
Ruth
and
.
5. What are some ways in which God reveals himself?
Possible responses: In creation, in Scripture and Tradition, in the hearts of humans
Check Understanding Circle True if a statement is true, and circle False if a statement is false. Correct each false statement. 6. The process by which God makes himself known to people in Sacred
© Our Sunday Visitor
B
B Check Understanding Direct the children to determine if each statement is true or false. They should also correct each false statement.
Scripture and Sacred Tradition is called Divine Revelation. True/False 7. The story of Ruth’s saving action is found in the Bible. True/False
The story of God’s saving action 8. Many stories in the Bible were passed down orally from generation to
generation before they were written. True/False 9. One way to make the Bible part of your life is to have daily prayer while
fasting. True/False
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to prepare customized and downloadable assessments, send eAssessments, and assign interactive reviews.
prayer and Bible reading 10. The Holy Spirit helps you open your mind and heart so that you can live
the truths of the Bible and Tradition. True/False
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Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for an interactive review.
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Chapter 2
The Creation Accounts
Key ConCept The accounts of creation from the Book of Genesis reveal that God alone created the universe. God created man and woman in his own image to live in harmony with him for all eternity. DoCtRInAL Content • The two accounts of creation teach that God alone is the Creator and that humans are his creatures. (CCC, 289) • Humans are created in the image and likeness of God with a desire to seek his truth. (CCC, 355)
• The first man and woman were created by God in a state of Original Holiness, or grace. (CCC 375) • Eternity is time without end and new life beyond death. (CCC, 1015–1017) tAsKs of CAteChesIs Helping children grow in a faith that is “known, celebrated, lived, and expressed in prayer” (NDC, 20). This chapter focuses on the following tasks of catechesis: • Promoting Knowledge of the Faith • Moral Formation
Catechist Background O Lord, our Lord, how awesome is your name through all the earth! Psalm 8:2 LLRefle t Where do you see God’s glory in the world? How do you help make it evident to others? Theories about creation and evolution abound, so you may ask, “What is the truth concerning creation?” The Book of Genesis begins with two accounts of creation. Both Scripture versions provide detailed information about the beginning of time, space, and matter. These two chapters give great assurance that no matter how the world evolved scientificall , the author of all creation is God. Creation is fille with his goodness. As a gift from God, creation has a dignity and goodness that humans should respect and cherish. Creation is the beginning of the story of salvation for Christians. The wonder of creation is acknowledged by giving praise to God as the Creator of all. God made humans the stewards of creation. As a steward, you are called to respect the Earth and all living things. You bring praise to God when you tend to the gifts of the Earth with love. Giving praise to him is a way of living that recognizes the gifts of creation and leads to a caring, responsible approach to his gift of creation. Refle t In what ways are you a responsible steward of creation?
Catechist’s Prayer God of peace, you have promised to be known to your People in stillness. Keep me from worrying about all the things to be done. Help me rest in your love. Amen.
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Lesson Plan Objectives
Process
Materials
Invite, 10 minutes The Creation Accounts Page 63
Psalm 104:31 Pray the opening prayer. Psalm 8:2–3a, 4–9 Refle t prayerfully on the Word.
Optional Activity Chapter Story: “The Glory of God”
• Discuss What Do You Wonder questions.
Discover, 35 minutes In the Beginning Pages 64–65 • Recall that the two accounts of creation teach that God alone is the Creator and that humans are his creatures • Consider what it means to be made in God’s image
• Catholic Faith Words Old Testament, soul, human dignity • Discover the differences between the two creation accounts.
pencils or pens
Genesis 1:1–5 Proclaim the “First Account of Creation.” Underline why God created human life. Genesis 2:4–25 Proclaim “The Second Account.” • Share Your Faith Activity Indicate similarities and differences between the creation accounts.
Lessons of Creation Pages 66–67 • Recognize that the firs man and woman were created by God in a state of Original Holiness, or grace • Develop a desire to seek God’s truth and share in his life • Defin eternity as time without end and new life beyond death
• Catholic Faith Words Original Holiness, providence • Discuss the lessons of the two creation accounts. Highlight things we learn about God from the creation accounts. • Connect Your Faith Activity Write a poem on the relationship between God and humans.
pencils or pens board or chart paper highlighters • Optional Activity A Hidden Message Activity Master 2 (Page 63E)
Live, 15 minutes Our Catholic Life Pages 68–69
• Identify ways to demonstrate respect for others. Check off two ideas on human dignity to put into practice.
pencils or pens board or chart paper
• People of Faith Learn about Saint Fiacre. • Live Your Faith Activity Circle things a caretaker of creation does. Prayer of Adoration Page 70
• Follow the order of prayer. • Begin and end by singing “Bless the Lord.”
Family + Faith Page 71 Point out that the Catholic Families page provides chapter highlights, information on how sixth graders understand faith concepts, and family prayer.
Download “Bless the Lord.”
Chapter Review Page 72
aliveinchrist.osv.com • Customize and Download Assessments • Email Links to eAssessments • Interactive Student Reviews
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Teaching This Grade Online resOurces http://www.aliveinchrist.osv.com
Sharing the Message with Sixth Graders Creation Sixth graders are learning more and more about science and scientifi theories. If they take the creation accounts too literally, it may be a struggle to reconcile what they have learned about evolution and other scientifi processes with what we read in Scripture. On the other hand, they are old enough to know and learn that even in Scripture, there are two accounts of creation with notable differences, meaning that the “Word of God” found in the creation accounts is not about how many days creation lasted or in what order things were created, but about how God created everything and created humans in his image. Remind the children that while the creation accounts may focus on different points, God’s Truth remains.
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com
You will find: • Interactive lesson planning with web specific content and additional activities • Step by step lesson instruction from printed Catechist Edition for integrated lesson planning • Custom-built assessments to download and eAssessment links • Interactive reviews that provide scores and the option to review answers • Sunday readings with background and questions of the week Go to osvparish.com
You will find: • Ask the Experts Q and A • General Catechist Helps • Community Connections and Blogs
Teaching Tip: As you approach Scripture with sixth graders, it might be helpful to frequently refer to the Word of God that is found in a particular passage. For example, you can say, “What is the Word of God in this story?”
How Sixth Graders Understand • At this age, children can have a lot of questions about life and God. Teach them where to fin the answers. • Some children may get confused about creation and evolution. Help them sort through the two. • Suggest ways in which the children can show care for the world.
“I want to help take care of God’s creation. Show me some ways that I can make a difference.”
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Chapter Connections Chapter Story
Invite
“The Glory of God” Use this story to expand the chapter introduction.
• The children will discuss with a partner some of their family’s favorite ways to enjoy the water, land, and wonderful foods God created. • They will share ideas on how we can bless the Lord for all he has given to us. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com Lesson Planning section for
Year A Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time—Grace of Our Father
this story.
NCEA IFG:ACRE Edition
Discover
Knowledge of the Faith
• Objective: To know and understand basic Catholic teaching about the Incarnate Word Jesus Christ as the way, truth, and life Moral Formation
• Objective: To be knowledgeable about the teachings of Jesus and the Church as the basis of Christian morality and to understand Catholic Social Teaching
Catholic Social Teaching
Lectionary connection Chapter 2 highlights Lectionary-connected themes such as creation, grace, made in God’s image, and eternity. If your parish aligns its curriculum to the liturgical year, you could use this chapter in connection with the following Sundays.
Live
Use one of these features to introduce a principle and engage the children with an activity.
• Life and Dignity of the Human Person, Pages 290–291 • Care for God’s Creation, Pages 302–303
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time— Resurrection of the Dead Year B First Sunday of Advent—We are the clay.
Fourth Sunday of Lent—We are saved by grace. Year C The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity—We have gained access by faith to grace.
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time—Heavenly Image Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com
for a complete correlation ordered by the Sundays of the year and suggestions for how to integrate the Scripture readings into chapter lessons.
Music Options Use one or more of the following songs to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer.
• “Bless the Lord,” Live Prayer, Page 70 • “For the Beauty of the Earth,” Invite, Page 63 • “For the Fruits of This Creation,” Discover, Page 65 • “Holy God, We Praise Thy Name,” Discover, Page 67
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Activity Master
Name
Date
A Hidden Message Find the hidden message by completing the sentences below. Spell out your answers on the individual puzzle blanks provided. Reveal the hidden message.
1. God made a
for Adam and Eve to live in.
2. God asked them to
the land.
3. The Bible says that God created the world in six 4. There are two
.
accounts in Genesis.
5. The first woman was made from the
of the first man.
them. 7. The first man was called
.
8. Genesis is the first book of the Old 9. The first woman was called
.
© Our Sunday Visitor
6. God brought the animals to our first parents so that they could
.
10. God saw that everything he created was
.
Puzzle:
2. 3. 4. 5. 1.
6. 7.
8. 9. 10.
Hidden Message:
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CHAPTER
2
I nv ite
Invite
The Creation Accounts
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space and make the Sign of the Cross. Have a volunteer pray aloud the leader’s prayer and Psalm verse. Prompt the group’s response.
Leader: Gracious Creator, how wonderful your works! How generous your love!
“May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord be glad in his works!” Psalm 104:31 All: Loving Father, accept our thanks for all your creation and for loving us always from beginning to end. Amen.
Have the children move out of the prayer space and back to their seats.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Scripture
Say: Let’s listen to this Scripture
O Lord, our Lord, how awesome is your name through all the earth! I will sing of your majesty above the heavens with the mouths of babes and infants. When I see your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and stars that you set in place— What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him little less than a god, crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him rule over the works of your hands, put all things at his feet: All sheep and oxen, even the beasts of the field, The birds of the air, the fish of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas.
about the Lord and where he has placed humans in creation. Music Option: Play “For the Beauty of the Earth,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Scripture
Psalm 8:2–3a, 4–9
Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection. • Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
What Do You Wonder? • Where do you see God’s glory in the world?
• What do you think it means to be made in the image of God?
• Proclaim the Scripture.
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• Maintain several moments of silence. • Ask: What did you hear God say to you today?
Optional Activity Chapter Story: “The Glory of God”
:16 AM
Verbal/Linguistic
• Invite volunteers to share.
Use this story after the opening prayer, before talking about God as Creator and our role in creation.
What Do You Wonder?
• Have the children silently read the story.
natural world comes from God. Pay attention and you’ll see his glory in it all.
• Encourage them to discuss with a partner some of their family’s favorite ways to enjoy the water and land that God created. • After connecting the things we enjoy with God’s many gifts of creation, transition back to the lesson instruction. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Chapter Story.
Say: Everything you see in the
Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about how we are unique in God’s creation.
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Discover
Discov er
In the Beginning
Objectives
What are the differences between the two creation accounts?
• Recall that the two accounts of
Genesis, the first book of the Old Testament, has two accounts of the beginning of the world and how life came to be. Both help answer some of life’s most important questions.
creation teach that God alone is the Creator and that humans are his creatures • Consider what it means to be made in God’s image
In the Beginning
Faith Words Old Testament the first part of the Bible, about God’s relationship with the Hebrew people before Jesus was born. It includes the laws, history, and stories of God’s People.
Scripture First Account of Creation In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was without form or shape, with darkness over the abyss and a mighty wind sweeping over the waters.
soul the spiritual part of a human that lives forever human dignity the worth each person has because he or she is made in the image of God
© Our Sunday Visitor
Recall that Divine Revelation is how God makes himself known to us in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. Point out that we can come to know about God through his creation.
Then God said: Let there be light, and there was light. God saw that the light was good. God then separated the light from the darkness. God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” Genesis 1:1–5
In this account, God separated the waters to create order and boundaries. Then he separated land from water and one kind of plant from another. (See Genesis 1:6–13.) God created the sun, the moon, and the stars. He created living creatures, releasing birds into the sky and fish into the seas. Then he brought animals into being on the land. God created everything full of goodness. (See Genesis 1:14–25.)
• Ask: Which book of the Bible contains the creation accounts? Genesis
Yet, in addition to all that he had created to fill the Earth, God created one more creature that would be like him and would share in his life and creative work. God created humans, male and female, and placed all of creation in their care. (See Genesis 1:26–30.)
• Say: In fact, Genesis contains two creation accounts from which we learn important religious truths God wants us to know.
God made humans in his own image and likeness with a soul and the ability to love and choose. Each and every person has value and human dignity. Underline why God created human life.
Summarize the introductory paragraph. Remind the group that the Genesis passages present religious truths.
Scripture Organize the children into five small groups. • Have one volunteer from each group read aloud a paragraph from the Scripture account [two in the box and three below], while the other group members pantomime the actions. • Direct the children to underline why God created human life. • Have them share with a partner what they underlined in the text.
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Scripture Background Genesis 1:1—2:25 The full texts of the Genesis creation accounts reflect the Hebrews’ search for an ultimate answer to some of life’s fundamental questions: Who made humans, and why? Where did we come from and where are we heading? • Both accounts in Genesis reveal the religious truth that humans are creatures of God and are reliant upon him for life, love, and happiness. • The Bible and science do not contradict one another regarding creation. Science addresses how the world came to be. Genesis reveals who created the world and why.
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A Different Order
A Different Order
Tell the children that the second chapter of Genesis gives another creation account.
The account in the second chapter of Genesis tells you more about God’s creation of human life. God creates the man before he creates the other creatures. Then he creates the woman.
Ask the children to silently read the introductory paragraph.
Scripture The Second Account
© Our Sunday Visitor
First God created the heavens and the earth. At that time the earth was like a parched desert, so God made a stream come out of the ground. Then God took some of the clay from the ground and formed a man. God breathed life into the man, and the man came to life. God planted a wonderful garden called Eden. God asked the man to work in the garden and to take care of it. Soon God saw that it was not good for the man to be alone. So God created more creatures, bringing them to the man to be named. Each creature was good, but none was the right companion for the man. So God caused the man to sleep and removed one of the man’s ribs. From this rib, God formed a woman as the man’s true partner. Based on Genesis 2:4–25
Scripture Detail from The World’s First Morning by Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas
Proclaim the second Scripture. • Tell the children to listen for similarities and differences in the creation accounts. • Discuss the qualities of God revealed in this passage.
LLWhat qualities of God are revealed in this passage?
Music Option: Have the children sing “For the Fruits of This Creation,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Reflect Think about the two creation accounts. How are they similar? How are they different? Share With a partner, fill in the Venn diagram with the similarities and the differences between the two accounts. Share your memories of learning about the creation accounts.
First Account
Second Account
Read aloud the instructions. • Organize the children in pairs. Ask each pair to discuss the similarities and differences between the two accounts. 65
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Catechist Background The First Man and Woman Adamah is the Hebrew word for the ground from which God created the first human in the second creation account. • The first man is called “earth creature,” or “Adam.” This name comes from the word Adamah. • The word Hawwa is Hebrew for “Eve.” Hawwaa is related to the Hebrew word hay or “living.”
• Have them fill in the Venn diagram. 5/2/13 8:08 AM
• Ask volunteers to share with the group their first memories of learning about the creation accounts.
Quick Review God created all things, and he created humans in his own image and likeness.
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Discover
Discov er
Objectives • Recognize that the first man and woman were created by God in a state of Original Holiness, or grace • Develop a desire to seek God’s truth and share in his life • Define eternity as time without end and new life beyond death
Ask the children to silently read the first three paragraphs. • Point out that both creation accounts contain the same truths: God created everything, and all humans are created in God’s image. That is why we must especially protect the unborn, the elderly, and the sick. • Discuss with the children how they should treat one another, knowing that we are made in God’s image. with respect and love
Lessons of Creation What are the lessons of the two creation accounts? In the two creation accounts, we read about how God is the powerful Creator who recognizes the goodness of all that he has made. Both accounts of creation help you understand God’s love for humans. The first creation account tells you that God alone created the universe. In the second creation account, God shows his deep care for the man’s loneliness by creating a woman to be the man’s true partner. This account shows that men and women were created to work together and share in God’s life. Humans are social beings; they need one another. That is why people gather in families and communities. This is all part of God’s plan.
Each and every one of us is created in God’s image and shares the same human dignity. Therefore, we must respect all life, including protecting the unborn, the elderly, and the sick. This is part of God’s plan, too.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Lessons of Creation
Men and women were created by God to be partners with him and each other.
Adam and Eve, as our first parents are called, were created by God in a state of Original Holiness, or grace. They shared in God’s life. They lived in harmony with each other, with God, and with creation. Adam and Eve were pure of heart and generous, and they delighted in caring for the garden.
LLWhat are some ways that men and
women work well together to fulfill God’s plan?
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Read aloud the last paragraph. • Have partners discuss their responses to the question at the bottom of the page.
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Reaching All Learners
• Ask each pair to share their responses with the group.
Hearing Impaired
Work with Words
If there is a child who is hearing-impaired in your group, refer to the following guidelines for help.
Have a volunteer read aloud the definitions on page 67.
• Speak slowly and clearly.
• Answer any questions the children might have on these Catholic Faith Words.
• Write the instructions on the board or on chart paper.
• Provide both oral and written instructions. • Be sensitive to any special needs this child may have without specifically calling him or her out.
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Truths about God
Truths about God The two accounts of creation teach that God alone is the Creator and that humans are his creatures. God is all-powerful, and he created everything that exists. This means that your most important attitude toward God is a response of praise and adoration. God gave you life, embraces you lovingly every day, and gives you everything you need to one day have eternal life—everlasting life with God.
Ask a volunteer to read aloud the first paragraph.
Faith Words Original Holiness the state of goodness that humanity enjoyed before our first parents, Adam and Eve, chose to sin against God
Role of Humans Invite another volunteer to read aloud the next two paragraphs on the role we should play in creation.
providence God’s loving care for all things; God’s will and plan for creation
Role of Humans
© Our Sunday Visitor
There are other lessons in the two creation accounts. God placed the man and the woman in charge of the Earth, but that did not mean they could do whatever they wanted. God made them stewards, or caretakers, of creation. They shared in God’s providence, his loving care for Highlight three things we learn about everything that he had made. God from the creation accounts.
• Have the children highlight three things we learn about God from the creation accounts.
You, too, are a responsible steward when you protect the environment and treat other living creatures with kindness. Taking care of yourself—your body, your mind, and your spirit—is another part of caring for creation.
• Ask: What is one more way we should care for creation? Possible response: by taking care of ourselves—body, mind, and spirit
Ask a volunteer to read aloud the directions. • Have the children work individually to write their poems.
Write a Haiku A Haiku is a three-line poem. The first line has five syllables. The second line has seven syllables. The third line has five syllables. Create a Haiku poem describing how you see the relationship between God and humans.
• Provide time for volunteers to share their poems with the group. The Creation Accounts 67
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Music Option: As the group works, play “Holy God, We Praise Thy Name,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Optional Activity Quick Review
Activity Master 2: A Hidden Message Distribute copies of the activity found on catechist page 63E.
• As an alternative, you may wish to send this activity home with the children.
Name
Date
A Hidden Message Find the hidden message by completing the sentences below. Spell out your answers on the individual puzzle blanks provided. Reveal the hidden message.
1. God made a
for Adam and Eve to live in.
2. God asked them to
the land.
3. The Bible says that God created the world in six 4. There are two
.
accounts in Genesis.
5. The first woman was made from the
of the first man.
6. God brought the animals to our first parents so that they could
them. 7. The first man was called
.
8. Genesis is the first book of the Old 9. The first woman was called
.
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Tell the children to use what they have learned in this chapter to complete the activity.
The first humans were created in a state of Original Holiness. God wants us to seek and accept his truth so that we may have life with him forever.
Activity Master
.
10. God saw that everything he created was
.
Puzzle:
2. 3. 4. 5. 1.
6. 7.
8. 9. 10.
Hidden Message:
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L iv e
Live
Our Catholic Life
Our Catholic Life
How do you demonstrate respect for others?
Invite a volunteer to read aloud the question at the top of the page. Allow time for a few responses.
Human dignity is many things. Most importantly, it is the God-given value and worth of every human. All humans have dignity and worth because all are made in the image and likeness of God. Dignity also means having self-respect and respect for others.
Summarize the introductory paragraph.
Here are seven ideas to help you respect the human dignity of others.
Human Dignity
• Direct the children to check off two ideas they will put into practice this week. • Ask for other ideas that could be added to the chart. Capture responses on the board or on chart paper. • Have the children turn to page 319 in the Our Catholic Tradition section at the back of the Student Book for more on Human Dignity.
Check off two ideas you will put into practice this week.
HUMAN DIGNITY
D
o things together
Work with others. Combine your strengths with their strengths.
I
nclude others
Remember that God made us social beings. Make friends and reach out in kindness to others, recognizing each of us is unique and gifted in our own ways.
G
ive acceptance
Welcome others and be patient with them, and yourself.
N
otice what is good
Tell others when they have done something well. Give yourself good feedback, too.
I
nvite respect
Respect yourself and others. Avoid putting down yourself or others, and avoid calling yourself or others names.
T
ry smiling
Smiling can help you and those around you feel better, even when you face problems.
Y
es! Say yes to life
See life as a gift to celebrate. Learn new things. Develop new skills. Meet new people.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Review the chart for promoting human dignity. As you read the ideas in the left column, have different volunteers read the corresponding text in the right column.
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Quick Tip Honor Privacy Respect the children’s wishes to keep responses private. • Group discussion questions, writing exercises, and reflections often raise sensitive issues for some children. They should feel confident that their privacy will be respected. • Never require a child to share or make him or her feel conspicuous for not sharing. Encourage sharing as appropriate, and honor personal choices.
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People of Faith
People of Faith
Tell the children about Saint Fiacre.
September 1
• Explain that Saint Fiacre is the patron Saint of all gardeners. He grew plants for food and medicine, and he took care of travelers. Eventually a whole town grew up around his house and garden.
Saint Fiacre, Seventh Century One of the ways we can be caretakers of creation is by planting flowers, vegetables, and trees. Saint Fiacre is the patron Saint of all gardeners. He wanted to live alone in his little house with a garden where he grew plants for food and medicine. But travelers would stop and ask to stay with him, so he built a special shelter for them. More and more people who needed help came to see Saint Fiacre and eventually a whole town grew up around his house and garden. Saint Fiacre helped all who came, but he also always kept growing his garden. Learn more about Saint Fiacre at aliveinchrist.osv.com
© Our Sunday Visitor
Discuss: How can you be a steward of creation?
• Say: Saint Fiacre cared for creation in the form of flowers, vegetables, and trees, but he also cared for people.
Think about the things you can do to be a caretaker of creation. Circle the items that you already do, and add your own ideas to the list.
• Ask: How can you be a steward of creation?
cons e waterve r
feed the birds
• Invite volunteers to offer suggestions to the question.
take care o f a ga r d e n
recycl
e
Encourage the children to go to aliveinchrist.osv.com at home to learn more about Saint Fiacre.
ise c r e x e pets
Review the instructions for the Live Your Faith activity. The Creation Accounts 69
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• Allow time for the children to add their own ideas of stewardship to the list.
Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Life and Dignity of the Human Person, pages 290–291; or Care for God’s Creation, pages 302–303. • Start the Live step of the process by talking about Saint Fiacre on page 69. Then move directly to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Or, to expand the lesson, complete both pages 68 and 69, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to Chapter 2 for the prayer on page 70.
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Live
L iv e Let Us Pray
Prayer of Adoration
Let Us Pray Prayer of Adoration
Gather and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
Leader: O Lord, our Lord, how awesome is your name through all the earth! You have set your majesty above the heavens!
Prepare Ask the children to read the response together after each statement of praise by the leader. Today you will be the leader.
All: How awesome is your name through all the earth! Leader: When I see your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and stars that you set in place— All: How awesome is your name through all the earth! Leader: What are humans that you are mindful of them, mere mortals that you care for them? All: How awesome is your name through all the earth! Leader: Yet you have made them little less than a god, crowned them with glory and honor.
Gather Lead children into the prayer space while playing or singing with them “Bless the Lord.” Have each child bring his or her book.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Have the children rehearse “Bless the Lord,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
All: How awesome is your name through all the earth! Amen. Based on Psalm 8:2, 4–6
Leader: Let us pray.
Pray
Bow your heads as the leader prays.
All: Amen.
Follow the order of prayer on the student page.
Leader’s concluding prayer: Thank you, O God, for this world. Help us love and appreciate all you have made. Teach us to respect the dignity of others and to treat all creatures with compassion. Conclude by singing with the children the refrain for “Bless the Lord.” Have the children exit the prayer space and return to their seats.
Sing “Bless the Lord”
Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name. © 1995, 2002, D. Brennan, M. Cavallero, K. Roth, and K. Canedo. Published by spiritandsong.com ®, a division of OCP. All rights reserved.
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Liturgy Link The Place of Prayer If the weather is pleasant, gather outside for the prayer celebration. • Talk to the children about the wonders of creation. • Encourage volunteers to share some of the things they see that we can give adoration or praise to God for. • If the weather is inclement, gather inside and look for visual references to creation or to God as Creator around the room. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Sunday readings, Scripture background, questions of the week, and seasonal resources.
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FA M I LY + FA I T H
Family + Faith
LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
your child learned
consider this
This chapter explains what we learn from the two creation accounts. God alone is the Creator, all he made is good, and humans are made in his image and likeness.
What makes a person valuable?
Scripture
Read Psalm 8:2–3a, 4–9 to find out about God’s love for all creation, especially humans.
Catholics Believe
• The accounts of creation from the Book of Genesis reveal that God alone created the universe. • God created man and woman in his own image to live in harmony with him for all eternity. To learn more, go to the Catechism of the Catholic Church #279–289, 355–361 at usccb.org.
People of Faith © Our Sunday Visitor
This week, your child learned about Saint Fiacre, who is the patron Saint of gardeners.
children at this age
How They Understand Creation Your child is learning more and more about science and scientific theories. If he or she takes the creation accounts too literally, it may be a struggle to reconcile what he or she has learned about evolution and other scientific processes with what we read in Scripture. On the other hand, children this age are old enough to know and learn that even in Scripture, there are two accounts of creation with notable differences, meaning that the “Word of God” found in the creation accounts is not about how many days creation lasted or in what order things were created, but about how God created everything and created humans in his image.
Distribute the page to the children or parents/adult family members. Point out the chapter highlights, insights on how sixth graders understand concepts, the opportunity for the adults to reflect on their own experience and faith journey, and the family prayer.
The wonders of creation—roaring ocean waves, mountains, or abundant wildlife—give witness to an awesome Creator. But the truth is that people are God’s greatest creation. As Catholics, we know that “the first man and woman were qualitatively different from and superior to all other living creatures on earth. They were uniquely made in the image of God, as are all human beings, their descendants” (USCCA, p. 67).
let’s talk
• Ask your child to name two things we learn about God and humans from the biblical creation accounts. • Talk about how your family trusts in God’s providence, his loving care, and his plan for us.
let’s pray Dear God, help us always to take good care of the gift of your creation as Saint Fiacre did, by caring for the plants, the animals, and people in it. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
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Chapter Review
Chapter 2 Review A
Work with Words Match each description in Column 1 with the correct term or terms in Column 2.
Column 1
Use Catechist Quick Reviews to highlight lesson concepts.
Column 2
1. humans were created to be
Adam and Eve
caretakers of creation 2. our first parents, who were created
first creation account
A Work with Words Have the children match each description in Column 1 with the correct term or terms in Column 2.
with Original Holiness 3. describes all that God created
stewards
was good 4. describes God’s creation of man
providence
before other creatures, and finally woman as his partner 5. God’s loving care for everything
second creation account
through time Check Understanding Complete each sentence with the correct term from the Word Bank. Not all terms will be used. 6. God created each human soul to live with him for
eternity
.
Genesis
Genesis
.
eternity
social beings ; that is, they are made to
9. Humans are
social beings Exodus
.
8. God created each person with value and human
dignity
B Check Understanding Ask the children to complete each sentence with the correct term from the Word Bank.
dignity
7. The two accounts of creation in the Bible are found in the
Book of
Word Bank
© Our Sunday Visitor
B
relate to one another. 10. Because God is the Creator and you are the created, your most
important attitude toward God should be
independent praise and adoration
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to prepare customized and downloadable assessments, send eAssessments, and assign interactive reviews.
praise and adoration .
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for an interactive review.
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Chapter 3
God’s Faithfulness
Key ConCept God fully revealed his faithfulness to humans by sending his only Son, Jesus, to conquer sin and bring everlasting life. Humans have the ability to live in friendship with God. DoCtRInAL Content • Faithfulness is the loyalty and steadfastness that God shows to all humans, even when they sin. (CCC, 214) • The first man and woman brought sin and death into the world through free choice, and one of the effects of sin is separation from God. (CCC, 402–404)
• Jesus is the “new Adam” because he makes amends for the disobedience of Adam. (CCC, 411)
• Jesus is the fulfillment of the covenant. (CCC, 612–613) tAsKs of CAteChesIs Helping children grow in a faith that is “known, celebrated, lived, and expressed in prayer” (NDC, 20). This chapter focuses on the following tasks of catechesis: • Promoting Knowledge of the Faith • Moral Formation
Catechist Background May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy … The one who calls you is faithful, and he will accomplish it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 LLRefle t How do you see God’s faithfulness being accomplished in your own life and in the lives of those you teach? Because humans are created in the image of God, they are given the gift of freedom. As Genesis recounts the story of the fall of our firs parents, it becomes clear that sin entered the world through humans who turned away from God’s love. As a result of personal sin and Original Sin, evil marked all humans in both a personal and a general way, but God remained steadfast, promising mercy and hope. Today, you live in a world in which both good and evil are clearly evident; temptations surround you and tempt you away from what is right and good. But God’s grace is always available to help you do what is right. His truth helps us repent of our sins and fin mercy, forgiveness, and hope. The love God has for humans, in spite of our sinful condition, reaches its high point in the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This sacrificia act of redemption, faced willingly by God’s only Son, overcame every power of evil. In Baptism, Christians are joined to the Death and Resurrection of Christ so that Original Sin and personal sin are overcome, and Christians are free to live in the life of Christ. Refle t How do you experience God’s mercy and love?
Catechist’s Prayer Master Teacher, help me learn from you. Teach me to be faithful to your call. May I delight in the faith of the children whose lives you touch through me. Amen.
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Lesson Plan Objectives
Process
Materials
Invite, 10 minutes God’s Faithfulness Page 73
Psalm 117:1–2 Pray the opening prayer. 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 Refle t prayerfully on the Word.
Optional Activity Chapter Story: “Sticky Fingers”
• Discuss What Do You Wonder questions.
Discover, 35 minutes Human Turn from God Pages 74–75 • Describe faithfulness as the loyalty and steadfastness that God shows to all humans even when they sin • Discover that the firs man and woman brought sin and death into the world through free choice
• Catholic Faith Words covenant, faithfulness
Sin and God’s Faithfulness Pages 76–77 • Identify one of the effects of sin as separation from God • Recognize that Jesus is the “new Adam” because he makes amends for the disobedience of Adam • Develop a deeper understanding of Jesus as the fulfillme t of the covenant
• Catholic Faith Words Original Sin, temptation, new Adam
Underline the result of disobedience.
pencils or pens • Optional Activity God’s Promise
Genesis 3:1–24, 4:1–15, 7:1–4, 9:8–11 Proclaim “The Great Flood.”
Activity Master 3 (Page 73E)
Genesis 3:1–6 Proclaim “The First Sin.”
• Discuss how God shows his faithfulness. • Share Your Faith Activity Write a word or phrase that describes friendship with God. pencils or pens
Genesis 11:1–9 Proclaim the “The Tower of Babel.” • Discuss one temptation that young people face. • Connect Your Faith Activity Explain one thing we can learn about God the Father through the life, Death, and Resurrection of his Son.
Live, 15 minutes Our Catholic Life Pages 78–79
• Discuss ways to grow in faithfulness. Write other examples of faithfulness.
pencils or pens board or chart paper
• People of Faith Learn about Blessed Peter To Rot. • Live Your Faith Activity Describe people who have modeled faithfulness to God. Litany of Forgiveness Page 80
• Choose five readers. • Begin by playing “You Are Near.”
Download “You Are Near.”
• Follow the order of prayer.
Family + Faith Page 81 Point out that the Catholic Families page provides chapter highlights, information on how sixth graders understand faith concepts, and family prayer.
Chapter Review Page 82
aliveinchrist.osv.com • Customize and Download Assessments • Email Links to eAssessments • Interactive Student Reviews
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Teaching This Grade Online resOurces http://www.aliveinchrist.osv.com
Sharing the Message with Sixth Graders God’s Promises and Faithfulness Keeping one’s word is likely very important to sixth graders, who have often developed close friendships based on trust and loyalty. Their emerging understanding of the literary device of foreshadowing helps them to see the ways in which God reveals himself and his plan over time, and how God is faithful to his covenants. Teaching Tip: Point out places in Scripture in which a future event is foreshadowed.
How Sixth Graders Understand Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com
You will find: • Interactive lesson planning with web specific content and additional activities • Step by step lesson instruction from printed Catechist Edition for integrated lesson planning • Custom-built assessments to download and eAssessment links • Interactive reviews that provide scores and the option to review answers • Sunday readings with background and questions of the week
• Children can sometimes be cruel to one another. Help them overcome this fault. • Most children this age like to be praised when they do something well. Provide them with positive reinforcement. • Some sixth graders can be sensitive and easily get their feelings hurt. Be sensitive in your interactions with them.
“When others are not very nice, it hurts my feelings. Help me to feel safe and appreciated.”
Go to osvparish.com
You will find: • Ask the Experts Q and A • General Catechist Helps • Community Connections and Blogs
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Chapter Connections Chapter Story
Invite
“Sticky Fingers” Use this story to expand the chapter introduction.
• The children will discuss what mistakes Justin and Greg are making in their friendship. • You may want three children to take the roles of the narrator, Justin, and Greg. Allow time for them to practice reading their parts. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com Lesson Planning section for
this story.
NCEA IFG:ACRE Edition
Lectionary connection Chapter 3 highlights Lectionary-connected themes such as God’s faithfulness, Original Sin, and Jesus as the fulfillment of the new covenant. If your parish aligns its curriculum to the liturgical year, you could use this chapter in connection with the following readings. Year A First Sunday of Lent—The Fall of Man
Discover
Knowledge of the Faith
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time—Mankind’s Sin
• Objective: To know and understand basic Catholic teaching about the Incarnate Word Jesus Christ as the way, truth, and life
Year B Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception—The Fall
Moral Formation
Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time— Adam was naked and afraid.
• Objective: To be knowledgeable about the teachings of Jesus and the Church as the basis of Christian morality and to understand Catholic Social Teaching
Catholic Social Teaching
Live
Use one of these features to introduce a principle and engage the children with an activity.
• Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person, Pages 294–295 • Solidarity of the Human Family, Pages 300–301
Year C Third Sunday in Ordinary Time— Scripture Is Fulfilled
Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time—God has mercy on us all. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com
for a complete correlation ordered by the Sundays of the year and suggestions for how to integrate the Scripture readings into chapter lessons.
Music Options Use one or more of the following songs to enhance catechetical learning or for prayer.
• “You Are Near,” Live Prayer, Page 80 • “Show Us Your Mercy,” Discover, Page 74 • “Get on the Boat,” Discover, Page 75 • “Lord of All Hopefulness,” Discover, Page 77 God’s Faithfulness 73D
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Activity Master
Name
Date
God’s Promise A covenant is a sacred promise between two people. The Bible tells about God’s covenant with Noah, which says that the world will never again be destroyed by water. Rearrange the words in the sentences below to find a simple version of this covenant. If you need help, see Genesis 9:1–17.
Fill be multiply and fertile the and Earth.
© Our Sunday Visitor
You descendants now and covenant after I your establishing you with my am.
Waters again bodily by creatures be flood a of destroyed the all shall never.
Serve a in covenant my as set bow to sign the I clouds the of.
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CHAPTER
I nv ite
God’s Faithfulness
Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray
Invite the children to gather in the prayer space and make the Sign of the Cross. Pray aloud the leader prayer and Psalm verse. Prompt the children’s response.
Leader: Faithful God, lead us to faith and deeper faith. “Praise the Lord, all you nations! Extol him, all you peoples! His mercy for us is strong; the faithfulness of the Lord is forever. Hallelujah!” Psalm 117:1–2 All: Lord of all faithfulness, increase our faith. Help us to be strong enough to depend on you. Amen.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Invite
Have the children move out of the prayer space and back to their seats.
Scripture
Explain that the word faith describes the gift God has given us so that we may know and respond to him. Before we can even think about this gift, we first must think of God’s faithfulness to us.
May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul, and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will also accomplish it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24
Say: Let’s listen to what Saint Paul tells us about God’s faithfulness.
Scripture Guide the children through the process of Scripture reflection.
What Do You Wonder? • Does the depth of your faith depend
• Invite them to close their eyes, be still, and open their minds and hearts to what God is saying to them in this passage.
on you or on God?
• To you, what is the greatest sign of God’s faithfulness?
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Optional Activity Chapter Story: “Sticky Fingers”
• Maintain several moments of silence. • Ask: What did you hear God say to you today?
Verbal/Linguistic
• Invite volunteers to share.
Use this story after the opening prayer, before talking about the gift of faith. • Have three volunteers read aloud the different roles in the story.
What Do You Wonder?
• Ask the group what is meant by “sticky fingers,” and whether they have had similar experiences.
still know that God has faith in us and he remains faithful.
• After talking about friendships and mistakes that can be made between friends, transition back to the lesson instruction.
Invite the children to respond to the questions. Ask what else they might wonder about God’s faithfulness.
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Chapter Story.
Say: If our faith should falter, we can
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Discov er
Discover
Humans Turn From God How does God respond to human disobedience?
Objectives
As we mature, we learn that all actions have consequences. When we choose sinful things we harm ourselves, others, and our relationship with God. Here is the account of the first time people were tempted by Satan, the enemy of God and his people, and acted selfishly. It is from the Book of Genesis.
• Describe faithfulness as the loyalty and steadfastness that God shows to all humans even when they sin
Scripture
• Discover that the first man and The First Sin
woman brought sin and death into the world through free choice
Humans Turn from God
© Our Sunday Visitor
Life in the Garden of Eden was perfect. No one wanted to change a thing until the day the serpent spoke to Eve. The serpent was clever and wanted to make trouble. He asked the woman about the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. She explained that just touching it meant death. The serpent disagreed. “If you eat from the tree,” he told her, “you will be like God.” Despite God’s warning, the woman ate the fruit and also gave some to Adam to eat. Based on Genesis 3:1–6
The man and the woman had chosen not to obey God. Their relationship with God was broken. Their disobedience also broke the relationship between God and all other humans who were to come into existence. Because of their actions, there would be hard labor, pain, and death in the world.
Point out that these next two pages will address how God responds to human disobedience. Read aloud the first paragraph
Underline what happened as a result of Adam and Eve eating the fruit of the tree. Then discuss what “forbidden fruit” people still eat today.
to introduce the Scripture story.
Scripture Have the group silently read about what happened in the Garden of Eden. • Ask volunteers to summarize the story of humankind’s first sin. Read aloud the paragraph at the bottom of the page. • Have the children underline what happened as a result of Adam and Eve eating the fruit of the tree. • Brainstorm responses to the question on “forbidden fruit.”
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Songs of Scripture Where Are You, Adam?
Music Option: In the background, play “Show Us Your Mercy,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
This song emphasizes two insights from the Genesis account of the first sin. • Adam and Eve misused God’s gift of free will and chose to disobey. • God laments their choice but allows them to experience the consequences of their sin. • Teach the song, “Where Are You, Adam?” Discuss God’s desire for us to be happy and his lament when we choose to disobey. Use Songs of Scripture, Grades 4–6 CD, Track 17
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God Makes a Covenant
God Makes a Covenant The Bible continues to tell the story of the effect of sin and evil in the world. The man and woman remained outside the garden. They had two sons, Cain and Abel. Cain was a farmer, and his brother Abel was a shepherd. Both made offerings to God, but only Abel’s offering pleased God. Abel gave his best sheep to God, but Cain gave only poor products from his field. When God told Cain not to be resentful toward his brother, Cain did not listen. In his anger and jealousy, he killed Abel.
Paraphrase the first paragraph, and point out the definition of the word covenant.
Faith Words covenant a sacred promise or agreement between God and humans
Scripture
faithfulness the loyalty and steadfastness that God shows to all humans, even when they sin. God’s offer of friendship is never withdrawn.
Still, God never stopped loving humans, even when they sinned. In the following passage, we learn how God made a covenant, or solemn agreement, with humans. God has always remained faithful to his covenant. His faithfulness is forever.
Have a volunteer read aloud the Scripture passage. • Ask the children what is important about this passage. Possible response: God makes a covenant with Noah and promises he will never again destroy the Earth with a flood.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Scripture The Great Flood As more people were born, sin continued. God was grieved with humans because of so much evil. He decided to destroy all creatures in a great flood. But Noah was a righteous man. So Noah, his family, and a certain number of creatures were brought to safety in an ark. After the flood, God made a covenant, a solemn, sacred agreement joining God and humans together. His covenant was with Noah and all of creation. As a sign of the covenant, God set a rainbow in the sky. It was a sign of his promise that he would never again destroy the earth with a flood.
Reflect Think about God’s actions or characteristics that show you his faithfulness to you. Share With a partner, use two letters of the word faithful to begin a word or phrase that states an action or characteristic of God that shows his friendship with you.
Based on Genesis 3:1–24, 4:1–15, 7:1–4, 9:8–11
Music Option: Have the children listen to “Get on the Boat,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Invite a volunteer to describe what is happening in the artwork on this page.
LLHow does God show his faithfulness and love?
Read aloud the Reflect portion of the Share Your Faith activity. • Have a volunteer read the instructions under Share.
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• Match each child with a partner to begin the activity. • Invite volunteers to share their words or phrases with the group.
Optional Activity Activity Master 3: God’s Promise Distribute copies of the activity found on catechist page 73E.
• As an alternative, you may wish to send this activity home with the children.
Date
The first man and woman freely brought sin into the world. In spite of humankind’s disobedience, God is always faithful—he remains loyal and steadfast, true to his Word.
God’s Promise A covenant is a sacred promise between two people. The Bible tells about God’s covenant with Noah, which says that the world will never again be destroyed by water. Rearrange the words in the sentences below to find a simple version of this covenant. If you need help, see Genesis 9:1–17.
Fill be multiply and fertile the and Earth.
You descendants now and covenant after I your establishing you with my am.
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Have the children rearrange the words to form accurate sentences.
Quick Review
Activity Master
Name
Waters again bodily by creatures be flood a of destroyed the all shall never.
Serve a in covenant my as set bow to sign the I clouds the of.
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Discov er
Discover
Sin and God’s Faithfulness Who is the “New Adam”?
Objectives • Identify one of the effects of sin as separation from God • Recognize that Jesus is the “new Adam” because he makes amends for the disobedience of Adam • Develop a deeper understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of the new covenant
Original Sin the sin of our first parents, Adam and Eve, which led to the sinful condition of the human race from its beginning
Scripture The Tower of Babel In the beginning, everyone spoke the same language. Noah’s descendants settled in a beautiful valley. There they decided to build a city and a tower that would reach to the sky. They did this because they were filled with pride and wanted to display their power.
temptation an attraction to sin, those actions and omissions that go against right reason and against God’s law
God saw what the people were doing and made their languages different so that no one could understand what anyone else was saying. The place became known as Babel, because it was there that people spoke without being understood. Then God scattered the people all over Earth, and they were unable to communicate with one another because of their different languages. Based on Genesis 11:1–9
new Adam a title for Jesus. By his obedience to the Father, and willingness to give his life, Jesus made amends for Adam’s disobedience, overcame sin, and brought us eternal life.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Sin and God’s Faithfulness
The Book of Genesis gives yet another account of how humans sinned and became separated from one another.
Faith Words
Free Will
Introduce the Scripture story.
When our first parents, Adam and Eve, disobeyed God, they committed Original Sin. Because of their free choice to do wrong, all humans are born with Original Sin. The tendency to sin, as well as suffering and death, are part of the human experience. The temptation to sin is part of being human. With God’s help, you can overcome temptation.
Scripture Point out that early humans lived in the same region and spoke the same language.
LLWhat is one temptation that young people your age face today?
• Tell the group that God commanded the early humans to spread out over the Earth, fill it, and be stewards over it. • Proclaim the Scripture story. 76 Chapter 3
Free Will Ask a volunteer to read aloud the paragraph. • Have the group discuss the question at the end of the text.
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Scripture Background Genesis 11:1–9
Work with Words Call on two volunteers to describe in their own words the two words highlighted on the page. • Have the group clarify and add additional or different wording.
Ask the children what they think of when they hear the word babble. • Share with the group that the Hebrew word for balal means “confused” and that it is a play on the word babel. • Have children discuss what the sin of building the tower was. Prompt discussion as needed, clarifying that it was pride; the people wanted to be like God.
• Then have the same volunteers read aloud the first two definitions in the Catholic Faith Words box.
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The New Covenant
The New Covenant
Have the children recall the definition of the word covenant. Possible response: a solemn agreement or contract between two parties
Through their disobedience, Adam and Eve brought sin and death into the world. Time after time, God’s people broke their covenant with him. But an ever-faithful God made a new covenant with humans.
© Our Sunday Visitor
God the Father fully revealed himself and his faithfulness by sending his own Son to teach us and save us. Jesus is the Father’s most complete and perfect revelation of his love for his people. The covenant that God made with Noah and with his chosen People, the Israelites, pointed toward Jesus and is fulfilled in him.
• Ask the group to silently read the text to find out how, after his covenant with Noah, God revealed himself and his faithfulness through a new covenant.
The New Adam Jesus is called the “new Adam.” Jesus makes amends for the disobedience of Adam. Jesus conquered sin and brought everlasting life. When you were baptized, Jesus, through his Passion, Death, and Resurrection, freed you from Original Sin and brought you into new life, the very life of God.
The New Adam Read aloud the paragraph. • Discuss why Jesus is called the new Adam. • Ask a volunteer to read aloud the definition on page 76.
What Have You Learned? Explain one thing you have learned about God the Father through the life, Death, and Resurrection of his Son.
• Explain that we have many scriptural titles for Jesus. Refer the children to page 305 of the Our Catholic Tradition section of the Student Book for examples. Music Option: Have the children sing “Lord of All Hopefulness,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
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Catechist Background The Sacrament of Baptism Original Sin is a flaw in human nature. It is a “contracted” state not a “committed” act that has been passed down from Adam and Eve to all humankind. But, it is taken away in Baptism through the grace of Christ. However, despite this grace, the consequences of Original Sin remain. The weakened condition of humans inclines them to sin, but the Good News of Christ is that grace is stronger than sin. (See the Catechism of the Catholic Church, 404–405.)
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Read aloud the directions. • Allow time for the children to write down their answers.
Quick Review Original Sin brought separation from God, sin, and death into the world; but the new Adam, Jesus, makes amends for this disobedience and brings new life.
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L iv e
Live
Our Catholic Life How can you grow in faithfulness?
Our Catholic Life
The statement “God is faithful” has several meanings. First, it means that God honors the covenant that he made with his People; God is loyal. It also means that God is reliable.You can trust what he says. When so much around you is changing and uncertain, only God offers you complete security and certainty.
Invite a volunteer to read aloud the question at the top of the page. • Write the children’s responses on the board or on chart paper.
It is important for others to know that they can count on you. Here are some ways to help you know that you are following God’s example of faithfulness.
Explain the different meanings for the statement “God is faithful.” Add your own examples in the empty bubbles.
You remain loyal to a friend who you know is right, even though your loyalty may cause you to be unpopular.
• Invite several volunteers to read aloud each of the examples of faithfulness listed on the page. • Direct the children to add their own examples to the empty bubbles.
You place God at the center of your life and keep your heart and mind focused on him.
• Encourage the children to put some of these examples into action at home. • In your next session, discuss what happened.
You can be trusted with important responsibilities.
© Our Sunday Visitor
• Talk about the importance of being reliable and faithful to others. This applies to both adults and children.
You believe and act in ways that follow Jesus’ example, even though this may result in your being misunderstood and teased.
You tell the truth.
You keep your promises.
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Quick Tip Express Feelings Often sixth graders have not developed skills to express their feelings appropriately. Accusing others (Marcus took the CD) or judging how others feel (Rose doesn’t like me) leads to further dissatisfaction and arguments. • Help children use “I” language (for example, “I saw Marcus pick up the CD,” or “I don’t think Rose likes me very much”). • In using this technique, children are less likely to put others on the defensive.
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People of Faith
People of Faith Blessed Peter To Rot, 1912–1945
Tell the children about Blessed Peter To Rot.
July 17
Blessed Peter To Rot was born on the island of Papua, New Guinea. His parents were among the region’s first Catholics. Peter went to Saint Paul’s Mission School to become a catechist. Soon, he was a recognized leader and was assigned to the mission in his own village. When the Japanese invaded the island, they forbade Christian worship and all religious gatherings. Blessed Peter was faithful to the Church, even though he was often punished. Finally, he was arrested for practicing his faith. He was put in prison, but he continued to be faithful to God even though he knew he would die because of it.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Discuss: How can you show your faithfulness to God today?
• Explain that Peter demonstrated faithfulness to the Church while suffering in a concentration camp. He continued to be faithful to God even though it led to a horrible death.
Learn more about Blessed Peter at aliveinchrist.osv.com
• Say: Blessed Peter To Rot was a martyr. • Have a volunteer read aloud the paragraph.
Explain one way that someone you admire has modeled his or her faithfulness in God.
• Ask the children to share their responses to the Discuss question.
If you were doing an internet search on these traits, what key words would you enter?
faithfulness and
Encourage the children to go to aliveinchrist.osv.com at home to learn more about Blessed Peter To Rot. How would your family describe your faithfulness?
Discuss the instructions for the Live Your Faith activity. • Allow time for the children to reflect on faithfulness and answer the questions.
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Catholic Social Teaching Chapter Connections To integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your lesson, choose one of the following features: Rights and Responsibilities of the Human Person, pages 294–295; or Solidarity of the Human Family, pages 300–301. • Start the Live process by talking about Blessed Peter To Rot on page 79. Then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Or, to expand the lesson, complete both pages 78 and 79, then move to the Catholic Social Teaching feature. • Return to Chapter 3 for the prayer on page 80.
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Live
L iv e Let Us Pray
Let Us Pray Litany of Forgiveness Explain to the children that this litany of forgiveness helps us to reflect on our lives—through the eyes of God’s constant faithfulness and love. God always believes in us.
Litany of Forgiveness This litany of forgiveness helps us to reflect on our lives through the eyes of God’s constant faithfulness and love. God always believes in us.
Leader: Sometimes life can be confusing. We suffer the consequences of our choices, and we sometimes bear the consequences of others’ choices.Yet, one truth is constant. Based on Psalm 139 All: Our God is a compassionate God, always loving us. Reader 1: Am I too bossy? Do I have to be the center of attention?
Prepare
All: God is always faithful; God is compassionate and near. Reader 2: Do I take my family for granted? Do I show them respect? All: God is always faithful; God is compassionate and near. Reader 3: Does peer pressure influence many of my decisions? Are my friendships helping me to grow?
Rehearse with the children “You Are Near,” downloaded from aliveinchrist.osv.com.
© Our Sunday Visitor
Select five readers for the prayer service.
All: God is always faithful; God is compassionate and near. Reader 4: Do I take time to pray? Is Jesus’ name important to me?
Gather With “You Are Near” playing in the background, invite the children to gather in the prayer space. Have each child bring his or her book.
Gather and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
All: God is always faithful; God is compassionate and near. Reader 5: Is my school and environment a better place because of me? All: God is always faithful; God is compassionate and near.
Sit quietly for a time of reflection.
Leader: Loving God, help us to always look to you for hope.
Pray
All: God is always faithful; God is compassionate and near.
Follow the order of prayer on the student page. Quiet Reflection: Before beginning the closing song, invite the children to take a few moments of quiet, reflecting on their lives and God’s constant love and faithfulness. • What resolution would they like to make to begin anew, renewed in God’s faithfulness, to live as Jesus’ disciple? Close by having the children softly sing “You Are Near.”
Sing “You Are Near”
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Liturgy Link Reflective Music Enhance the prayer celebration by playing reflective music during the Quiet Reflection part of the prayer service. • Soft instrumental songs will work well. • Consider having the children sit comfortably as you play the entire song. • You might even suggest that they close their eyes for a more focused reflection. Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for Sunday readings, Scripture background, questions of the week, and seasonal resources.
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FA M I LY + FA I T H
Family + Faith
LIVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
your child learned
consider this
This chapter teaches that, despite Original Sin and the ongoing struggle of humans tempted to sin, God establishes and remains faithful to his covenant, promising to always love and be there for us.
As a parent, we love our children more than we imagined possible. How do we end each day loving them even more? An early childhood teacher once said, “With the birth of our first child we learn the depth of our love. When our second is born we learn the breadth of our love.” Children come to understand the unconditional love of God by experiencing the unconditional love of a parent. As Catholics, we know that “through the stories of creation in Chapters 1 and 2 of Genesis, God reveals himself as the Creator of all that exists, showing particularly a tender love for the high point of his creation, man and woman” (USCCA, p. 56).
Scripture
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 to find out about God’s faithfulness.
Catholics Believe
• God fully revealed his faithfulness to humans by sending his only Son, Jesus, to conquer sin and bring everlasting life. • Humans have the ability to live in friendship with God. To learn more, go to the Catechism of the Catholic Church #396–411, 1468, 1730 at usccb.org.
People of Faith © Our Sunday Visitor
Distribute the page to the children or parents/adult family members. Point out the chapter highlights, insights on how sixth graders understand concepts, the opportunity for the adults to reflect on their own experience and faith journey, and the family prayer.
This week, your child learned about Blessed Peter To Rot, a mission leader and native of New Guinea, who was martyred by Japanese invaders in 1945.
let’s talk
• Ask your child to explain what God’s covenant is. • Talk about some ways in which your family or close friends have demonstrated faithfulness.
children at this age
How They Understand God’s Promises and Faithfulness Keeping one’s word is likely very important to your child. Children this age have often developed close friendships based on trust and loyalty. Their emerging understanding of the literary device of foreshadowing helps them to see the ways in which God reveals himself and his plan over time, and how God is faithful to his covenants.
let’s pray Dear God, help us to follow Blessed Peter’s example of leadership and love by living as your faithful servants. Amen.
For a multimedia glossary of Catholic Faith Words, Sunday readings, seasonal and Saint resources, and chapter activities go to aliveinchrist.osv.com.
Alive in Christ, Grade 6 Chapter 3 81
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Chapter Review
Chapter 3 Review A
Work with Words Fill in the circle next
.
since Adam and Eve chose to
Use Catechist Quick Reviews to highlight lesson concepts.
Jesus Adam
resist temptation
David
disobey God name the animals
God, all humans are born with .
2. Cain killed his brother, Abel,
perfection
.
thought his parents favored Abel
Original Holiness
felt anger and jealousy
Original Sin purity
thought Abel was a bad brother believed Abel had more sheep
descendants at .
.
Eden
rainbow
Jerusalem
trust
Babel
© Our Sunday Visitor
8. God confused the speech of Noah’s
3. The sacred agreement that God
made with Noah is called a
A Work with Words Have the children fill in the circle next to the correct answer.
7. Because our first parents disobeyed
leave the Garden of Eden
Bethlehem
miracle covenant
9. As an offering to God, Abel offered
4. God the Father revealed himself
fully by
.
Noah
1. Sin has been present in the world
because Cain
6. The covenant God made with the
Israelites pointed toward
to the correct answer.
.
the best of his
sending his Son, Jesus
sheep
saving Noah from the flood
camels
giving the Ten Commandments creating all things
, Jesus conquers sin and brings us everlasting life.
5. As the new
.
farm products
cattle 10. Eve ate the fruit from the tree of
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to prepare customized and downloadable assessments, send eAssessments, and assign interactive reviews.
. happiness
Adam
life
Noah
blessing
Abel
knowledge
Moses
82 Chapter 3 Review
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Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com for an interactive review.
God’s Faithfulness 81–82 5/3/13
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UNIT
1
Unit Review
UNIT
1
Unit Review A
Work with Words Solve the puzzle using the clues provided. Across
Use Catechist Quick Reviews in each chapter to highlight lesson concepts for this unit and prepare for the Unit Review.
things into being 6. a sacred agreement between
God and humans
2.
O L D
3.
A T friendship 4. C R E A T time without end E M E S P 6. C O V E N A N T T
10.
8.
R
F
E
S A L V A T I E T L H F U L N E S S
I
5.
I
A
A T
M
I O O N
E N T
7.
9.
A Work with Words Have the children solve the puzzle using the clues provided.
1.
G R
9. God’s forgiveness and
© Our Sunday Visitor
Have the children complete the review pages. Then discuss the answers as a group. Review any concepts with which the children are having difficulty.
4. God’s act of bringing all
O N R I G I N A L S
I E T E R N
10.
I
T Y
A T I O N
Down 1. the state of holiness in which God
created Adam and Eve 2. first part of the Bible 3. attraction to sin 5. first disobedience against God 7. Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition 8. God’s steadfastness
Revelation 83
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83 Alive in Christ
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UNIT
1
B
Unit Review B Check Understanding Direct the children to match each description in Column 1 with the correct term in Column 2.
Check Understanding Match each description in Column 1 with the correct term in Column 2. Column 1 11. God fully revealed his plan
Column 2 Original Holiness
of salvation by sending him 12. In the Book of Genesis, the first
rainbow
creation account tells you that God created this 13. Adam and Eve were created
New Adam
C Make Connections Have the children write a response to each question.
in a state of this 14. This was a sign of God’s promise
Jesus
to Noah 15. Because he conquered sin and
universe
death, Jesus is called this © Our Sunday Visitor
C
Make Connections Write a response to each question. 16. What is human dignity?
Responses will vary.
84 Unit 1 Review
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17. How does Original Sin affect every human?
Responses will vary.
18. What have you learned about how God reveals himself?
Responses will vary.
19. What are two ways for you to follow God’s example of faithfulness? © Our Sunday Visitor
Responses will vary.
20. How do you think reading the Bible helps you as a Catholic?
Responses will vary.
Go to aliveinchrist.osv.com to prepare customized and downloadable assessments, send eAssessments, and assign interactive reviews. Revelation 85
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Unit 1 Review 84–85 5/2/13 8:23 AM
5/14/13 11:46 AM
