Finding God: Grade 4, Parish, Teacher's Edition

Our Response to God’s Gifts

Parish C atec his t Guide

GRADE

4GRADE

4

Saint Teresa of Ávila

Teresa of Ávila dedicated her life to prayer and taught others how to pray. She was named a Doctor of the Church.

U n i t 1

God, Our Creator and FatherUnit 1 focuses on God as our Creator and Father with an emphasis on how prayer brings us closer to God. In this unit children will learn the following.

SeSSion 1 God Creates the WorldGod created the world and the human family. Human beings alone have souls. God also gave us the gift of free will, which gives us the ability to choose to live as God wants us to live. The Holy Spirit helps us follow Jesus’ example. In addition to these concepts, children will learn about psalms.

SeSSion 2 Our Father in HeavenIn the Bible God is revealed as the Trinity. The Father created the world. Jesus, the Son, saves us, and the Holy Spirit teaches us the truth. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches us to pray to God as our Father. Children will learn the Theological Virtues of faith, hope, and charity, as well as the Act of Faith.

SeSSion 3 God’s Plan for SalvationAdam and Eve harmed their relationship with God when they chose to give in to temptation. Because of this first sin, we are all born into Original Sin. However, God did not give up on Adam and Eve, and he does not give up on us. He has promised Salvation, forgiveness of sins, and restoration of our friendship with him. He fulfilled this promise by sending Jesus to save us from our sins. Children learn the Act of Hope in this session.

SeSSion 4 God Calls Us to ObeyAs a result of Original Sin, resisting temptation can be difficult. Because we have free will, we can choose to do what is right. We form our conscience by studying the teachings of the Church and following the guidance of our parents and the pastors of the Church. We live in true freedom when we cooperate with the Holy Spirit. The virtue of prudence helps us make good choices. Children also review how to make an examination of conscience.

SeSSion 5 Celebrating Ordinary TimeChildren learn the meaning of Ordinary Time, why we celebrate it, when we celebrate it, and explore how Ordinary Time is celebrated in our Church.

CateChiSt PreParation

Un iT 1 1a

U n i t S a i n t

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PDF Signoff: Production _______ Design _______ Editorial _______

together as One Parish

Religious Education with the Parochial School

To celebrate the beginning of a new year of faith formation, celebrate Catechetical Sunday, which is usually observed nationally on the third Sunday in September. You may wish to recognize all of the Catholic school teachers and parish catechists during Mass or another parish event. You can find resources for Catechetical Sunday at the USCCB Web site.

Prayer in Unit 1

In each session of Unit 1, establish the pattern and tone for prayer. Children pray prayers of petition and thanksgiving and participate in a guided reflection. Children also learn and pray the Act of Faith and the Act of Hope and make an examination of conscience.

Catholic Social Teaching in Unit 1In the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29–37), Jesus makes clear our responsibility to care for those in need. The Church articulates this responsibility in Catholic Social Teaching. Following are the themes of Catholic Social Teaching integrated into this unit.

Call to Family, Community, and Participation Participation in family and community is central to our faith and to a healthy society. As the central social institution, the family unit must be supported and strengthened. From this foundation people participate in society, promoting the well-being of all.

Care for God’s Creation God is the Creator of all people and things, and he wants us to enjoy his creation. We have a responsibility to care for all things that God has made. We are called to make moral and ethical choices that protect the ecological balance of creation both locally and worldwide.

The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers The Catholic Church teaches that the basic rights of workers must be respected: the right to pro-ductive work, to fair wages, to private property, to organize and join unions, and to pursue economic opportunity. Moreover, Catholics believe that the economy is meant to serve people, not the other way around. More than being just a way to make a living, work is an important way in which we participate in God’s creation.

Life and Dignity of the Human Person The Catholic Church teaches us that all human life is sacred and that all people must be treated with dignity. As Catholics we strive to respect and value people over material goods. We ask whether our actions as a society respect or threaten the life and dignity of the human person. The foundation of our moral vision is our belief in the life and the dignity of the human person.

Rights and Responsibilities The Catholic Church teaches that every person has a right to live, as well as the right to things required for human decency. As Catholics it is our responsibility to protect fundamental human rights in order to achieve a healthy society.

Solidarity Solidarity is the attitude that leads Christians to share spiritual and material goods. Solidarity unites rich and poor, weak and strong, and helps build a society that recognizes that we live in an interdependent world.

Literature OpportunityAt Break of Dayby n ikki GrimesYou might wish to read aloud this story, which is a retelling of the Creation story.

Care for God’s Creation

1b www.findinggod.com

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3-Minute RetreatKnowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 1Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of the session content.

ScripturePsalm 65:10,14 tells us that God cares for the world he creates.

Sirach 39:33 teaches us that all of God’s works are good.

TraditionCreation, which is the work of the Trinity, reaches its summit in the creation of the human family. God gives us a soul, an intellect, and free will. Living in freedom is possible only when we follow Jesus to God the Father. The Holy Spirit helps us understand this truth and live faithfully.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching themes are Care for God’s Creation, The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers, and Rights and Responsibilities. See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Window on the CatechismThe importance of the doctrine that God creates out of wisdom and love is found in CCC 296–298.

General Directory for CatechesisFollowing Jesus means taking on responsibilities. Some of these are covered in GDC 157.

Before you prepare the session, pause and be still. Take a moment to praise God for the gift of free will, which we can use to make choices to care for creation.

Psalm 65:10,14

You visit the earth and water it,

make it abundantly fertile.

God’s stream is filled with water;

with it you supply the world with grain.

Thus do you prepare the earth.

The pastures are clothed with flocks,

the valleys blanketed with grain;

they cheer and sing for joy.

ReflectionIn Psalm 65 the fruitfulness of the earth is a testament to God’s love. In response the created world sings with joy to the Creator. In the creation of the human family, God’s generosity is unsurpassed. He has given us a soul, an intellect, and free will. When we use these gifts to know and serve God and care for his creation, we continue God’s work on earth.

QuestionHow have I chosen to express my gratitude for God’s generosity in my life?

Prayer

Speak to God, using this prayer or your own.

Generous God, you care for my every need. Lead

me to care for your creation with a joyful heart.

Un IT 1 • Session 1 1c

CateChist PreParation

session 1

God Creates the World

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Before This Session▶▶ Prepare a prayer center. See page EC-2 for ideas.

▶▶ Establish group rules and procedures. See pages EC-2–EC-3 for ideas.

▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Psalm 65:10,14 and Sirach 39:33. Place the open Bible in your prayer center.

▶▶ Read the Guide for this session, choose any additional If Time Allows activities that you might have time to complete, and gather the listed materials.

StepS ApproximAte time

engage

Unit Saint: Saint Teresa of Ávila PageS 1–2

God Creates the World Page 3

10 minutes

explore

God’s Wonderful Creation Page 4

Caring for the Earth Page 5

Art Print: Tree of Life arT PrinT and PrinT Back

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: god calls Us to Pray Page 6

Thanking God for Creation Page 7

15–20 minutes

respond

Living My Faith Page 8 5–10 minutes

MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Children’s Books to distribute

▶▶ Prism and light source (sunny window, flashlight, etc.)

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 1: Tree of Life and Children’s Book page 229

▶▶ CD player

▶▶ CD 1, Track 6: “God’s Wonderful Creation” (13:46)

▶▶ Wrapped gift box

▶▶ Art supplies

if Time Allows▶▶ Story about creation (page 3)

▶▶ Session 1 BLM, T-293 (page 4)

▶▶ Media player, Video: clip from Winged Migration (page 4)

▶▶ Cardboard boxes, art supplies (page 5)

▶▶ Bible (page 7)

▶▶ CD player, CD 2, Track 3: “Praise to God” (1:22) (page 7)

▶▶ Session 1 Assessment, www.findinggod.com (page 8)

SeSSion 1 God Creates the Worldsession Theme: God’s love for us is revealed through his creation.

Prayer in Session 1

In this session set a prec-edent for the pattern and tone for prayer through-out the year. The prayers give children opportu-nities to talk with God in the quiet of their hearts. Children begin to learn about psalms. Session 1 includes the option to use a guided reflection. Follow the Prepare directions on the Catechist Guide page before sharing with children.

1d www.findinggod.com

catechiSt PreParation

one-Hour Session planner

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Choose one approach to open the unit. 5-Minute Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . belowOptional Unit Opener . . . . . . . next page

5-Minute aPProachchildren’s Pages

BeginWarmly greet children as they arrive. Introduce yourself and invite children to do the same. Share why your faith is important to you and why you are excited about a new year of faith for-mation. Say: I’m so glad you’re here. This year we’re going to learn new and exciting things together.

Distribute the Children’s Books. Say: May this be a year of finding God in all things.

Have children open their books to page 1. Read aloud the unit title. Say: The sessions in our first unit will help us understand that God is our Creator and Father and that prayer helps bring us closer to him.

Introduce the SaintRead aloud the page. Explain that Saint Teresa of Ávila spent a lot of time praying and thinking about prayer. Point out that she also wanted to help other people learn how to pray. Ask: Who helps you learn how to pray? (Possible answers: family mem-bers, priests, catechists)

Discuss the picture of Saint Teresa of Ávila. Ask: What can we tell about Saint Teresa of Ávila based on this picture? (Possible answer: She was a holy person.)

Ask children to turn to page 2. Invite volunteers to read aloud the page. Say: We remember Saint Teresa of Ávila because she dedicated her life to prayer. In our sessions we are going to learn how we can grow closer to God through prayer. Have children turn to page 3.

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UnIT 1 1

engage

Saint Teresa of ÁvilaTeresa of Ávila was born in Spain in 1515.

Her strict but loving father sent her to a

convent when she was 16 years old. Teresa

discovered that she liked living a simple life

in community with other religious sisters.

At times Teresa felt herself growing away

from God. Sometimes she tried to pray but

found it difficult. However, Teresa continued

to pray and remained faithful to God

because she knew that this was what he

wanted her to do.

Teresa wrote about prayer and traveled

throughout Spain to teach people about the

simple life she lived. What she wrote was so

important that she was named a Doctor of

the Church, a special kind of teacher. People

who want to learn about prayer still read her

books today. Her feast day is October 15.

The medieval walled city of Ávila

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Saint Teresa of ÁvilaSaint Teresa of Ávila believed in the power of

prayer. She spent her life writing about prayer

and teaching people how to pray to God.

God, Our Creator

and Father

UNIT

1UNIT UNIT UNIT UNIT UNIT

11

1





This page describes a program-wide intergenerational event that is offered in a supplemental component.

Events GuideFinding God Together: An Intergenerational Events Guide by Mary Lynn Hendrickson and Tom McGrath

TOGETHER

EVENTS GUIDE

Ideas to shareDoctor of the Church

Saint Teresa of Ávila was named a Doctor of the Church, which means that the Church believes that her insights and writings about prayer are fundamentally important to Church teach-ing. Other women who are Doctors of the Church are Saint Catherine of Siena and Saint Thérèse of Lisieux.

oPtional unit oPenerintergenerational event

PrepareWork with your catechetical leader to use the Finding God Together kit to plan an intergenerational event for Unit 1.

Open the EventGather families in one space. Use Finding God Together to open the event, introduce Finding God, and discuss the main theme for Unit 1. Together, enjoy an entertaining skit.

Implement the Saint Stations

Use Finding God Together to help families learn more about the saints at their grade-level saint stations. Be sure all families feel welcome and are engaged in the process.

CloseGather families in one space for a guided reflection. Use Finding God Together to close the event.

Transition to Children’s Book

When children arrive for the faith formation session, discuss the event, distribute the Children’s Books, and review information about the unit saint. Have children open their books to page 3.

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engage

TOGETHER

Unit 1

GRADE

4Image: © Mary Evans Picture Library.

978-0-8294-3215-2

Saint Teresa of ÁvilaFeast Day: October 15

GRADE

4GRADE GRADE

44



SeSSion 1

outcomeS

▶▶ Explain that creation is a gift from God and that we are called to give thanks for this gift.

▶▶ Describe how we can care for the gift of creation.

▶▶ Define free will, psalm, and soul.

Set the StageHave children name beautiful aspects of God’s creation. Then ask: What makes these things beautiful? Why do you think God created them? How do you think God wants us to treat creation? (Accept reasonable responses.)

Get StartedDraw children’s attention to the picture. Ask: What is happening in this picture? (Possible answers: Children are picking up trash.) Read aloud the session title and the text in the blue box. Allow time for children to share their responses to the questions. Say: There are many ways we can take care of creation.

Work and Workers

Say: In this session we will learn about the wonders of God’s creation and how we are called to help care for what God has given us.

Prayer

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: Pray the prayer silently while I pray it aloud. Pray aloud the prayer. Say: Let’s take a moment to talk to God in the silence of our hearts. Allow time for children to pray silently. Conclude by praying the Sign of the Cross.

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Inclusion: Attentionwalk and Talk If you have children with attention differences, you may wish to discuss this page while walking around the parish grounds. Encourage children to point out beautiful aspects of God’s creation and to name ways that we can take care of what God has given us.

God’s Creation

Read a Creation StoryRead aloud a children’s story about creation, such as At Break of Day by nikki Grimes. Discuss the primary themes presented in the story.

UnIT 1 • Session 1 3

engage

PrayerDear God, please give us the grace to appreciate creation.

Help us show our love for you in how we care for the earth.

God Creates

the World

SESSION 1

Farmers, park rangers, and

sanitation workers help take

care of the earth. Can you

name other jobs that involve

taking care of the earth?

What can we do to take

care of the earth?

3



If TIme Allows

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for an article about the Canticle of the Sun, a prayer in which Saint Francis of Assisi praises God for the wonders of creation.



BeginInvite volunteers to hold a prism near a light source and try to refract the colors of the rainbow. Say: Notice the amazing colors that God has created. Ask: How do you feel when you see the colors of the rainbow? (Possible answers: happy, excited, thankful)

ConnectRead aloud the first paragraph. Then say: The next time you see something beautiful, remember to take a moment to thank God for creating it.

Ask volunteers to read aloud the next three paragraphs. Point out the vocabulary terms. Explain that having a soul makes us human and makes us beings that are made in the image and likeness of God. Point out that the soul also helps us recognize God’s handiwork and that body and soul together form one unique human nature.

Tell children that the soul is responsible for our conscience and our freedom. Say: Free will is our ability to choose good because God has made us like him. Explain that our conscience is the part of us that helps us use our free will to make good choices.

CloseAsk: What kinds of choices do you think God want us to make regarding the earth? (Possible answer: God wants us to use our free will to choose to care for everything he has given us.)

Reading God's Word

Read aloud the Scripture passage. Explain the verse in simple terms. Say: Everything God makes is good, and he takes care of everybody and everything.

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3 Session 1 BLMwho Am i? Have children complete the Session 1 Blackline Master [T-293] to identify people who care for God’s creation.

Message Through Media: Winged migrationHave children watch a clip from a nature program such as Winged Migration, which is a documen-tary chronicling bird migration over 2,000 miles of landscape. Afterward, ask children to reflect on God’s creation and their role in caring for it.

Rights and Responsibilities

FYIThe Soul and Free WillSaint Paul said, “For I do not do what I want, but I do what I hate.” [Romans 7:15] It is not always easy to do good. However, we have a soul and the free will to choose to do good. Original Sin does not destroy free will. God’s grace, which we receive in the sacraments, helps us make good choices.


exPlore

God’s Wonderful CreationThink about how you feel when you see a rainbow or a beautiful flower. A feeling of joy and wonder is what God wants us to experience whenever we look at the amazing things he has created for us.

God’s most amazing creation is the human family. He created each human with a spiritual nature called a soul.

In addition God gave us an intellect so that we can understand and free will so that we can make choices. We are able to choose to live as God wants us to live.

The goal of human life is to follow Jesus Christ to God the Father. The Holy Spirit helps us live in a way that will lead us to this goal.

EXPL

ORE

Reading God’s WordThe works of God are all of them good; every need when it comes he fills. Sirach: 39:33




If TIme Allows



BeginDiscuss the importance of caring for creation. Ask: Does anyone know what April 22 is? (Earth Day) What is Earth Day? (a day to remember how important it is to care for the earth) How might we observe Earth Day? (Possible answers: plant a tree, plant flowers, pick up litter) Why is it important for us to care for the gift of creation? (Possible answer: to express to God our thanks for the gift of creation)

ConnectInvite volunteers to read aloud the section Caring for the Earth. Ask: What is an example of a wasteful use of resources? (Possible answers: letting the water run when we brush our teeth, leaving the light on when we leave a room) Why is it important not to waste the resources we have received from God? (By not wasting what God has given us, we can express our gratitude for the gift of creation.)

Give children time to write how they can care for the earth.


Read aloud the section Gifts from God. Have children complete the activity. Invite volunteers to share their responses with the group. Encourage children to explain why these gifts from God are their favorite.

CloseDisplay Art Print 1: Tree of Life. Use the Art Print 1 instruc-tion to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 229.

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art Print 1

Tree of Life

Service: RecyclingArrange with your catechetical leader to place recycling bins around the parish. Bring in cardboard boxes and provide paper, pens or pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, and glue. Have children make box labels that say Cans, Bottles, and Paper and then have children decorate the boxes. Invite children to distribute the boxes in various places on the parish grounds. Empty the boxes periodically accord-ing to your local recycling practices.

God’s Creation


exPlore

Caring for the EarthGod chose to create the earth for us. One way that we thank him is by taking care of this great gift. We care for the earth by not wasting the resources he has given us. Air, water, mountains, deserts, plants, and animals are all precious because they are gifts from God.

Here are some things that we can do to take care of the gifts God has given us:

▶ Recycle paper, plastic, metal, and glass. ▶ Use cloth towels and napkins instead of paper. ▶ Walk or ride a bike instead of riding in a car.

Write about one way you can care for the earth.

Answers will vary.

Gifts from God

Take a moment to think about everything God has created. List some of your favorite gifts from God. Write why you like those things.

Answers will vary.EX

PLOR

E

GO TOPAGE

229

SESSION 1 • God Creates the World 5



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Prayer

Choose an approach and pray with the children.

aPProach 1

recorded Guided reflection

Prepare Listen in advance to the recorded guided reflection

“God’s Wonderful Creation” [CD 1, Track 6]. Decide if you will use the recording or lead the reflection yourself. If you choose to lead, listen to the recording a second time, following the script [pages T-282–T-283] and noting pauses and tone. You can then use the script or adapt it as you wish.

Pray During the session play the recording or lead using the script, joining the children in reflective prayer. If you use the script, you may wish to play reflective music softly in the background.

aPProach 2

children’s pagePrepare Pray the prayer on page 6 in advance to become familiar with it.

Pray Invite children to prepare for prayer by quieting themselves, get-ting comfortable, and closing their eyes. Read aloud slowly and with expression the first three paragraphs. Pause after the third paragraph to give children time to reflect. Read aloud the fourth paragraph. At the end of the reflection, provide time for children to talk silently with God.

Close by praying aloud Amen and joining children in praying the Sign of the Cross. Say: Now, let’s talk about ways we can thank God for the gift of creation.

Pray AgainIf you used the recorded guided reflection, you might use this prayer page during another session.

FYICoaching Children

to PrayBefore praying, emphasize that prayer is a relationship with God and communica-tion with God about all aspects of our lives. Explain that prayer is an essential part of daily life that helps us grow closer to God. Encourage children to focus their attention on a specific image or idea to help them concentrate and reflect.


reflect

Prayer

God Calls Us to PrayPrayer is the living relationship of the children of God with God our Father, with his Son, Jesus Christ, and with the Holy Spirit.

Sometimes we pray aloud, praying the words of a specific prayer. Other times we listen as someone else prays aloud. We can also pray silently to ourselves. Focusing on one object or image can help us remain attentive to God.

Use your imagination to think about something beautiful. Examine it carefully with your mind’s eye. What do you love about it?

Thank God for this beautiful part of creation and for all of creation. Let your heart be aware of how much God loves you. In your heart pray the Glory Be to the Father.




If TIme Allows



BeginDisplay a wrapped gift box. Ask: How might you feel if I gave you this gift? (Possible answers: happy, excited, thank-ful) Why do we give gifts to people? (Possible answers: to celebrate special events, to show others that we love them) What might you do after you receive a gift from someone? (Possible answer: send a thank-you note) Why is it important to thank people for the gifts they give us? (Possible answer: to show how much we appreciate their thoughtfulness)

ConnectAsk: What are some beautiful aspects of creation that we have talked about during this session? (Answers will vary.) Remind children that by thanking God for the gift of creation, we show how grateful we are for everything he has given us. Ask: What are some things we can do to show God how thankful we are for the gift of creation? (Possible answers: pray a prayer of thanks, recycle, use only what we need) Point out that prayers of thanks and praise, such as those expressed in the psalms, help strengthen our relation-ship with God.

Read aloud the section Thanking God for Creation. Distribute pens or pencils, crayons, and markers. Give children time to complete the activity.

CloseInvite volunteers to share their finished drawings and prayers with the group.

Pray together a litany of creation. Ask each child to name their favorite aspect of creation. After each child names something, pray together a response such as “We thank you, God, for this great gift.” Conclude the litany by praying together the Glory Be to the Father.

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Psalm PantomimeRead aloud Psalm 104:10–23 from your Bible. Point out the imagery inspired by nature’s abundance. Have each child find a partner, and assign a verse to each pair. Ask partners to pantomime their verse as you reread the psalm aloud.

Praise to GodCd 2, Track 3 Remind children that singing is one way to pray. Say: We’re going to listen to a song that we can sing to praise

God for the gift of creation. Play the song “Praise to God.” Play the song a second time and Invite children to sing along, using the lyrics in the back of their books.


reflect

Thanking God for CreationDraw a picture of someone or something from God’s creation that you find amazingly beautiful. Then write a short prayer thanking God for this great gift.

Answers will vary.

REFL

ECT

SESSION 1 • God Creates the World 7



If TIme Allows



Get ready for Session 2Consult the catechist preparation pages to prepare for Session 2 and determine any materials you will need.

Pl an aheadPl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Ask a volunteer to read aloud this section. Ask: How is God’s love revealed? (in the gift of creation) What did God give to each human being? (a soul and free will) How can we use our souls? (to appreciate what God has created) How can we use our free will? (to make good choices to care for the gift of creation) What are some good choices that we can make? (Possible answers: recycle, pick up litter, use only what we need)

ConnectWords I Learned Read aloud the terms. Ask children to define each one. Review the terms in the Glossary if necessary.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Ask a vol-unteer to read aloud this section. Say: Any time you see something beautiful, remember to thank God for it.

Prayer

Ask children to prepare them-selves for prayer. Pray the prayer together. Allow time for silent reflection and then conclude by praying together the Sign of the Cross.

With My Family Ask children to read silently the three suggestions in this section. Invite children to choose one or more to complete at home.

Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: Remember, we all have a responsibility to care for the gift of creation.

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Session Assessment OptionAn assessment for this session can be found at www.findinggod.com.


reSPond

With My Family

Activity Spend time enjoying the beauty of creation. You may wish to go for a hike, to spend time playing in a park, or to go for a boat ride. Pray together, thanking God for everything he has given us.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: If you could fill a backyard with one thing from God’s creation, what would it be? Why?

Family Prayer Dear God, bless our family, a part of your creation. Help us use our free will to choose to care for everything you have given us. Amen.

PrayerThank you, God, for the wonderful gift of creation.

Help us take care of it, just as you take care of us.Li

ving

My

Faith

Faith SummaryGod’s love is revealed in the gift of creation. He created each human being with a soul and gave us free will. It is with our souls that we appreciate what God has created. We can use our free will to make good choices to care for the gift of creation.

Words I Learned

free willpsalm*soul

Ways of Being Like Jesus

Jesus loved and blessed God his Father. Show God you love him by thanking him for the gift of creation.

* This word is taught with the Art Print. See page 229.

RESP

OND




If TIme Allows



3-Minute Retreat

Before you prepare the session, pause briefly for silent reflection. Remember that you are in the loving presence of God, who is with you as you continue this journey of growth and discovery.

Matthew 7:9–11

[One day Jesus taught his disciples, saying] “Which one

of you would hand his son a stone when he asks for

a loaf of bread, or a snake when he asks for a fish? If

you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts

to your children, how much more will your heavenly

Father give good things to those who ask him.”

ReflectionJesus teaches us that we can call God our Father and depend on him. Prayer is essential to maintaining this intimate relationship with him. God’s gifts of faith, hope, and charity sustain us in prayer, nurture our relationship with God, and help us to meet other people’s needs.

QuestionKnowing that God is my Father and that all members of the human family are my brothers and sisters, what relationships with members of my “family” need attention today?

Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 2Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of the session content.

ScriptureMatthew 7:9–11 teaches us that God is our loving Father.

John 14:7 reminds us that if we know Jesus, we know God our Father.

TraditionJesus taught us the Lord’s Prayer to help us grow in our relationship with God. When we pray this prayer, we pray for the coming of God’s kingdom. In praying this petition, we acknowledge our accep-tance of God’s direction in our lives. As Catholics we believe that the Eucharist is the principal sign of the Kingdom of God in our midst. God’s kingdom will be fulfilled with the return of Jesus Christ at the Last Judgment.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching themes are Call to Family, Community, and Participation; Care for God’s Creation; Rights and Responsibilities; and Solidarity. See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Window on the CatechismThe mystery of God as our Father is explored in CCC 2779–2783. God our Father’s love for us as revealed in the Bible is discussed in CCC 120–127.

General Directory for CatechesisThe role of prayer, specifically the Lord’s Prayer, in catechesis, is presented in GDC 85.

Prayer

Jesus invites you to speak to the Father, using this prayer or one of your own.

Abba, Father, deepen my faith, increase my hope,

and strengthen my charity for all my brothers and

sisters, especially those in my care.

Un it 1 • Session 2 9a


session 2

Our Father in Heaven

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Before This Session▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to John 14:7 and Matthew 7:9-11. Place the open Bible in your prayer center.

▶▶ Display the Finding God poster Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love.



engage

Our Father in Heaven Page 9 10 minutes

explore

God Listens to Us Page 10

The Kingdom of God Page 11

Art Print: The Creation aRT PRINT aND PRINT BaCK

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: Our Faith in god Page 12

Faith, Hope, and Charity Page 13

15–20 minutes

respond


MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 2: The Creation and Children’s Book page 230

▶▶ Finding God poster: Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love

▶▶ Various symbols, such as a sprig of evergreen, a butterfly, and a candle

if Time Allows▶▶ Art supplies (pages 9, 10, 11, 13)


▶▶ Magazines, poster board (page 10)

▶▶ Poster board (page 11)


SeSSion 2 Our Father in Heavensession Theme: Jesus teaches us that God is our loving Father.

Prayer in Session 2

In this session continue to establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The short opening and closing prayers invite children to remember that God cares for each of us. The prayers also provide an opportunity for children to add their own personal intentions. In this session children learn the Act of Faith, a prayer that expresses our trust in God.




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SeSSion 2

outcomeS

▶▶ Explain that God listens to our prayers.

▶▶ Describe how we can serve the Kingdom of God.

▶▶ Define Theological Virtues.

Set the StageAsk: How are families different? (Possible answer: They follow different traditions.) How are they the same? (Possible answer: Families are called to love one another.) How does God wants us to treat our family members? (Possible answer: lovingly)

Get StartedDraw children’s attention to the picture. Ask: What do you see in the picture? (Possible answer: two children, trees)

Read aloud the session title and the text in the blue box. Give children time to share their responses to the question. Say: Even if the children in the picture are not relatives, they are still related. They are a brother and a sister in God. In this session we are going to learn more about how God calls us to treat one another.

Solidarity

Prayer

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: Let’s pray to Jesus for the help to know God more deeply. Ask a volunteer to pray aloud the prayer. Then say: Let’s take a few moments to ask Jesus to hear our private prayers. Allow time for children to pray silently. Conclude by praying together the Lord’s Prayer.

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A Family TreeDistribute paper, pens or pencils, crayons, and markers. Ask each child to draw a tree and write the name of a different family member on each branch. Then have children write on the branches one nice thing they can do for each family member. Encourage children to complete the actions they write down. Say: Doing nice things for our family members is one way to show them love and respect.

Family and Community


engage

PrayerDear Jesus, help us know God as our loving Father and

to follow his plan for us.

All people are brothers

and sisters, because God

is our Father. What are

some ways you can show

care for your brothers

and sisters in God?

Our Father in Heaven

SESSION 2

9



If TIme Allows

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for an article about living the virtues in everyday life.



BeginAsk: Why do we pray? (Possible answers: to praise and thank God, to ask God for help) What are some of the prayers you know by heart? (Answers will vary.) In addition to praying these prayers, how else can we pray? (Possible answers: sing a song, go to Mass, read the Bible, enjoy God’s creation)

ConnectRead aloud the Scripture pas-sage. Ask: Would a good father

give his children a stone or a snake when they are hungry and asking for food? (no.) Explain that God always listens to our prayers. Point out that when we pray to God with a need, we are praying a prayer of petition.

Invite volunteers to read aloud the next two paragraphs. Ask: Why does God listen to our prayers? (Because he loves us and wants to help us.) What are some of the good things that God has done for us? (Possible answers: given us the gift of creation, given us a soul and free will)

Point out that in the Bible Jesus taught his followers the words of the Lord’s Prayer. Ask: Who helped you learn the Lord’s Prayer? (Answers will vary.) Why might we pray this prayer? (Possible answer: to develop a closer relationship with God) What are some other prayers we can pray to help us grow closer to God? (Possible answers: the Glory Be to the Father, the Apostles’ Creed)

CloseDirect children’s attention to the feature at the bottom of page 10.

Link to Liturgy

Read aloud the feature. Remind chil-dren that praying the Lord’s Prayer helps us grow in relationship with God the Father. Take a moment to pray together the Lord’s Prayer.

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Session 2 BLMGifts from God Have children complete the Session 2 Blackline Master [T-294] to reflect on the gifts we receive from God.

God’s-Gifts CollageDistribute magazines, scissors, glue, and poster board. Ask children to find pictures that represent God’s gifts to the world and to use the pictures to make collages. Invite children to share their collages with the group. Discuss ways children can help care for all the gifts God has given us.

FYIPrayer Gesture

The word orans is Latin for “praying.” On the walls of buildings where early Christians gathered to cele-brate the Eucharist, there are pictures of worshipers with their hands extended and raised. This posture expresses openness to God.


exPlore

Link to LiturgyWe pray the Lord’s Prayer at the beginning of the Communion Rite at Mass.

God Listens to UsOne day Jesus taught his disciples, “Which

of you would give your son a stone when

he asks for bread or a snake when he asks

for a fish? If even you know how to give

your children good gifts, think how much

more our Father in heaven will give to those

who ask him for something.”

adapted from Matthew 7:9–11

Jesus wants us to know that God listens to our prayers because God loves us and wants to help us. The good things God does for us reveal to us his holiness.

Jesus shows us a special way to pray when he teaches us the Lord’s Prayer. When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we enter into a close relationship with God. Calling God “Our Father” helps us trust God and remember that he will always help us.

Link to Liturgy

EXPL

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If TIme Allows



BeginAsk: Who are some kings and queens you have heard of? (Answers will vary.) What is the role of a king or a queen? (Possible answer: to care for and protect the people of the kingdom) How is God like a king? (Possible answer: God cares for us and protects us.)

ConnectRead aloud the first three paragraphs. Ask: How might we describe the Kingdom of God? (Possible answers: It is proclaimed in the Gospels. It is pres-ent in the Person of Jesus.) Explain that through Jesus and the Gospels, we learn how to follow God’s plan for us and that when we follow God’s plan for us, we build up God’s kingdom.

Explain that the Eucharist is the primary sign of the Kingdom of God in our lives because in the Eucharist we receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. Say: When we receive the Eucharist, we receive the strength to follow God’s plan for us.

Define the concept of the Last Judgment. Say: The Last Judgment will happen at the end of time when God’s law of love fully rules the world. Emphasize that when we allow God to direct our lives, we serve him and help build up his kingdom.

Read aloud the section Serving God’s Kingdom. Give children time to complete the activity.


CloseDisplay Art Print 2: The Creation. Use the Art Print 2 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 230.

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Art Print 2

The Creation

Service: Care-for-Creation SignsDistribute paper, poster board, pens or pencils, crayons, and markers. Invite children to create signs and posters encouraging people to take care of God’s creation. Children may wish to decorate their signs and posters with images, positive slogans, or Scripture passages. After receiving permission from your catechetical leader, hang the signs and posters around the parish.

God’s Creation


exPlore

The Kingdom of GodWhen we pray, we worship God and commit ourselves to working for his kingdom. The Kingdom of God is proclaimed in the Gospels and is present in the Person of Jesus. When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we are praying for the coming of God’s kingdom.

The Church represents the Kingdom of God on earth. The Eucharist is the primary sign of the kingdom in our lives. The kingdom will be completed with the return of Jesus Christ at the Last Judgment when he will hand over the kingdom to the Father.

In God’s kingdom we join with Jesus and let God direct our lives. We act as Jesus would by caring for others, especially people who are poor.

Serving God’s Kingdom

Write how you can serve God’s kingdom in your own life.

I can serve God’s kingdom by

Possible answer: donating food to

people who are poor

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SESSION 2 • Our Father in Heaven 11



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Prayer

Follow the steps to guide children through the prayer on page 12.

children’s pagePrepare Pray the prayer in advance to become familiar with it.

Pray Display the Finding God poster Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love. Turn children’s attention to the prayer in the book. Say: Today we’re going to pray the Act of Faith together. Read aloud the sentence before the prayer. Then say: When we profess our belief in God, we profess our belief in the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. I invite you now to pray aloud with me or silently in your heart. Pray aloud the prayer, slowly and with expression.

Read aloud the paragraph follow-ing the prayer. Say: Jesus teaches us that God listens to our prayers. Let us take a moment to talk to God in the quiet of our hearts. Allow time for silent prayer.

Close the prayer by asking children to join you in praying the Glory Be to the Father.

Say: Now, let’s learn more about how we can develop our relationship with God. Thanking God

After praying with children, invite them to write a short note to God, thanking him for the gift of his Son, Jesus. Remind children that prayer is a way for us to express our hope and trust in God.


to PrayEstablish a consistent pat-tern as you lead children into prayer. Use a set phrase or statement to help children develop a sense of the pres-ence of God in their lives. Say: Remember that you are in the holy presence of God who loves you. Let us pray.


reflect

Prayer

Our Faith in GodWe pray the Act of Faith to express our belief and trust in God.

Act of Faith

Oh my God, I firmly believe that you

are one God in three divine Persons,

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I believe

that your divine Son became man

and died for our sins, and that he will

come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe these and all the truths which

the holy Catholic Church teaches,

because you have revealed them, who

can neither deceive nor be deceived.

Amen.

After you pray the Act of Faith, spend a few minutes with God. Tell him in your own words that you believe in him and trust him.




If TIme Allows



BeginDisplay various symbols such as a sprig of evergreen, a butterfly, and a candle. Ask: What does each symbol mean? (Possible answers: life, Christmas; spring, new life, the Resurrection; light, celebration) Explain that a symbol is an image or object that stands for or represents something other than the image or object itself. Invite children to share additional examples of symbols and to explain what the symbols mean.

ConnectRead aloud the first two paragraphs. Point out that the Theological Virtues are given to us by God and do not come from human effort. Explain that the word charity is another word for love. Ask: What do the words faith, hope, and charity mean to you? (Possible answer: Faith is trust in God, hope is the belief that God’s promises will be fulfilled, and charity is love of God and one another.)

Emphasize that the Theological Virtues are behaviors we need to practice if we want to develop them fully. Ask: What are some ways you can practice faith, hope, and charity in your life? (Possible answers: pray, trust in God, treat others as I want to be treated)

Read aloud the section Sacred Symbols. Use the information in the Ideas to Share box to explain the meaning of each symbol. Ask: Why do you think we use these symbols for the Theological Virtues? (Accept reason-able responses.)

Distribute pens or pencils, crayons, and markers. Give children time to complete the activity.

CloseInvite volunteers to share and explain their completed symbols. Conclude by saying: Symbols are great visual reminders of our faith.

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A Family CrestAsk children to think of symbols that represent their families. Distribute paper, pens or pen-cils, crayons, and markers. Ask children to make a family crest, illustrating the symbols they have chosen. Tell children to make sure the symbols show something about their families’ faith and love. After children have been given an opportunity to share their family crests with the group, display the crests on a bulletin board.


IdeAs to shAreCross, Anchor, Heart

Each of the three sacred symbols for faith, hope, and charity has special signifi-cance. The cross represents faith. We pray the Sign of the Cross at the beginning and end of our prayers. Hope is shown as an anchor. Our hope anchors our belief that God’s promises will be fulfilled. The heart represents charity. Human emotion and the ability to love God symbolically originate in the heart.


reflect

Faith, Hope, and CharityFaith, hope, and charity are the Theological Virtues. They are gifts from God that help us develop a strong relationship with God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They are the foundation of our moral activity and help us follow Jesus Christ to God the Father.

By accepting and practicing the Theological Virtues, we are able to live as God wants us to live and to gain eternal life in Heaven. We strengthen the Theological Virtues by practicing them.

Sacred Symbols

We use these symbols to represent faith, hope, and charity. Why is each symbol a good one?

Make up your own symbols for faith, hope, and charity. Draw them here.

REFL

ECT

faith

FaithHope

Charity

hope charity

SESSION 2 • Our Father in Heaven 13



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Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Invite a volunteer to read aloud this section. Ask: How do we learn about God and his plan for us? (by reading the Bible) How can we follow God’s plan for us? (by practicing the Theological Virtues) Remind chil-dren that it is important to practice the Theological Virtues if we want to develop them fully.

ConnectWords I Learned Ask a volunteer to read aloud the Glossary definition of the term Theological Virtues. Then have each child write a definition of the words faith, hope, and charity.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Read aloud this section. Give pairs of children time to discuss how they can practice faith, hope, and charity in their lives.

Prayer

Say: Jesus teaches us that God listens to our prayers. Ask chil-dren to prepare themselves for prayer. Then pray the prayer together. Allow a moment for silent reflection. Conclude by praying together the Sign of the Cross.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: We can all be more like Jesus by trusting God and following his plan for us.

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reSPond

With My Family

Activity Participate in an activity that will help build up the Kingdom of God. You may wish to visit a nursing home, to serve a meal at a soup kitchen, or to collect donations for a clothing drive.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: If you could wear a symbol to show your faith in God, what would it be? Why?

Family Prayer Dear God, thank you for giving us the Theological Virtues as a way to follow your plan for us. Help us always practice these virtues in our lives.

PrayerThank you, Jesus, for teaching us that God listens to us

and gives us the grace to make good choices.Li

ving

My

Faith

Faith SummaryWe learn about God and his plan for us in the Bible. By practicing the Theological Virtues of faith, hope, and charity, we can follow God’s plan for us.

Words I Learned

Theological Virtues


Jesus followed God’s plan for him. Follow God’s plan for you by practicing the Theological Virtues.

RESP

OND

Thank you, Jesus, for teaching us that God listens to us




If TIme Allows




ScriptureGenesis 3:1–24 tells the story of humanity’s fall from grace and God’s promise of Salvation.

TraditionThe story of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3 describes how Adam and Eve first lived in a trusting relation-ship with God and with each other. In the story the serpent makes them suspicious of God’s care. Adam and Eve’s fundamental sin was a lack of trust in God. This lack of trust in God also resulted in a loss of trust in each other. Even though Adam and Eve turned away from God, he did not turn away from them. God promised that Salvation would come through the Savior, Jesus. Church Tradition has rec-ognized the promise of a Savior in Genesis 3:15. This passage foretells the final victory of Jesus Christ over Satan, who is represented by the serpent.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching themes are Call to Family, Community, and Participation and Life and Dignity of the Human Person. See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Window on the CatechismThe Salvation promised by God after the fall of Adam and Eve is explored in CCC 410–412.

General Directory for CatechesisJesus’ role in fulfilling God’s promise of Salvation is summarized in GDC 102.

As you prepare the session, pause for a moment of reflection. Remember that God is always with you, extending to you the gift of Salvation.

Genesis 3:4–5

But the serpent said to the woman: “You certainly will

not die! No, God knows well that the moment you eat

of it your eyes will be opened and you will be like gods

who know what is good and what is bad.”

ReflectionWhen Adam and Eve gave in to temptation, they freely chose to turn away from God. Their failure to obey God damaged their relationship with him. In addition they damaged their relationship with each other. God, however, did not give up on Adam and Eve. In his great mercy, he promised Salvation. We know that in our own lives, turning away from God has consequences. If, however, we choose to follow Jesus and obey God, we find happiness and Salvation.

QuestionsHow am I selective about which of God’s instructions I choose to obey? How well do I accept responsibility for my sin?

Prayer

Speak to God, using this prayer or one of your own.

When I turn away from you, Lord, have mercy.

When I turn away from others, Christ, have mercy.

When I am afraid to face my sin, Lord, have mercy.

Un IT 1 • Session 3 15a


session 3

God’s Plan for Salvation



Before This Session▶▶ Be ready to discuss current news stories about people hurting one another and helping one another.

▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Genesis 3. Place the open Bible in your prayer center.

▶▶ Display the Finding God poster Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love



engage

God’s Plan for Salvation Page 15 10 minutes

explore

Adam and Eve Pages 16–17

Art Print: Christ the Redeemer art Print and Print Back

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: Our Hope in god Page 18

Using Our Free Will Page 19

15–20 minutes

respond


MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Stories of current events in the news

▶▶ Art Print 3: Christ the Redeemer and Children’s Book page 231

▶▶ Finding God poster: Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love

▶▶ Note cards with written situations about facing temptation

if Time Allows▶▶ CD player, CD 2, Track 1: “Song of Love” (4:00) (page 15)

▶▶ Step-by-step instructions for actions that demonstrate the meaning of “Song of Love” (page 15)


▶▶ CD player, CD 1, Track 1: “Adam and Eve” (3:58) (page 16)

▶▶ Art and painting supplies (page 17)


SeSSion 3 God’s Plan for Salvationsession Theme: God responds to the sin of Adam and Eve with the promise of a Savior.

Prayer in Session 3

Maintain the tone for prayer that you have developed in previous sessions. The brief open-ing and closing prayers encourage children to focus their reflection on the content of the ses-sion. Each prayer also provides an opportunity for children to pray silently. In this session children are introduced to the Act of Hope.






SeSSion 3

outcomeS

▶▶ Retell the story of Adam and Eve.

▶▶ Explain what happens when we give in to temptation.

▶▶ Identify the Act of Hope as a prayer that expresses hope and trust in God.

▶▶ Define Salvation.

Set the StageSay: Today we are going to talk about current events. Invite children to share current news stories. Ask: Are the people in these stories helping or hurting one another? Why might people choose to hurt one another? Why might people choose to help one another? (Accept reasonable responses.) Point out that when we choose to help others, we serve God’s kingdom.

Get StartedRead aloud the session title and the text in the blue box. Ask: Do you think God wants us to help people who have been hurt? (Yes.) Why? (Possible answers: because we are all brothers and sisters in God, because it is the example Jesus gave us) What are some of the bad things we heard about in our current-events discussion? What can we do to help those who have been hurt? (Answers will vary.)

Say: Today we’ll learn about how sin entered the world and how God saves us from sin.

Prayer

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: Let’s ask God to help us treat others with charity and respect. Pray aloud the prayer. Then say: Now let’s take a moment to talk silently with God. Allow time for children to finish their prayers. Conclude by praying together the Sign of the Cross.

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Song of LoveCd 2, Track 1 Play “Song of Love.” Encourage children to follow along, using the lyrics in the back of their books. After listening to

the song, ask small groups to work together to make up actions that demonstrate the meaning of the verses. Have groups perform their actions for one another.

Life and Dignity

Inclusion: Cognitivesong of love If you have children with cognitive differences, provide clear, concrete instructions for how to make up actions that demon-strate the meaning of the verses to “Song of Love.” You may wish to provide children with a list of step-by-step instructions.

UNIT 1 • Session 3 15

engage

PrayerDear God, help us show our love for you in how we serve

and care for others.

We often hear news stories

about how people hurt

one another. We cannot

always stop bad things from

happening, but we can help

people who have been

hurt. What can you do to

help someone who has

been hurt?been hurt?

God’s Plan for

Salvation

SESSION 3

15



If TIme Allows

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for an article about the two Creation stories in the Book of Genesis.



BeginDraw children’s attention to the illus-tration on page 16. Ask: What do you see? (Possible answers: two people, a snake) Say: These two people are Adam and Eve. Ask: Who are Adam and Eve? (the first human beings created by God) What do you know about Adam and Eve? (Answers will vary.)

ConnectInvite volunteers to read aloud the section Adam and Eve. Ask:

What did God tell Adam and Eve after he created a beautiful garden for them to live in? (God told them to take care of the garden. He told them they could eat the fruit of every tree except one.) Were Adam and Eve happy at first? (Yes.) Why? (They lived in obedience, listening to God and to each other.) Did Adam and Eve understand what God asked of them? (Yes.) How do you know? (When asked by the serpent, Eve explained what God had told them.) Why did the serpent act surprised when Eve explained what God had said? (The serpent acted surprised to trick Adam and Eve.) What did the serpent tell Eve? (that they would become like gods if they ate the fruit from the tree)

CloseAsk: What temptation did Adam and Eve face? (whether to eat the fruit from the tree that God had told them not to eat) What choice did Adam and Eve make? (to eat the fruit) What were the consequences of their decision? (Possible answers: God told them to leave the garden. Their relationship with God was injured.)

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3 Session 3 BLMdecision in the Garden Have children complete the Session 3 Blackline Master [T-295] to summarize the story of Adam and Eve.

Adam and EveCd 1, Track 1 Play the recorded Scripture story

“Adam and Eve.” As you listen, encourage children to imagine that they are one of the charac-ters in the story. After you listen to the recording, you may wish to distribute copies of the script [page T-277] to have children act out the story.

ideas to shareOriginal Sin

Through Original Sin, the consequence of Adam and Eve’s sin, all humanity lost God’s original blessing and became subject to sin and death. Jesus, being fully God and fully human, was born without Original Sin. He is like us in every way except sin.


exPlore

Adam and EveIn the beginning God created a man and a

woman, body and soul, and gave them the

Garden of Eden to live in. God told Adam

and Eve, “Take care of the garden. You may

eat the fruit of every tree but one. If you

eat the fruit of that tree, you will die.”

For a while Adam and Eve were happy

because they lived in obedience, listening

to God and to each other.

Then a sly serpent appeared and spoke to

Eve. The serpent asked, “Did God really

tell you not to eat from one of the trees in

the garden?”

Eve answered, “We can eat the fruit of

every tree except the one in the middle of

the garden. God said if we eat the fruit from that

tree, we will die.”

The serpent looked surprised. “You will not die if

you eat from that tree,” it said. “Instead, you will

become like gods, who know what is good and

what is bad.”

Adam and Eve ate some of the fruit. By doing this they showed

that they did not trust God, who wanted only the best for them.

When God discovered what they had done, he told them to leave the

garden. Their relationship with God was injured. From then on their lives

would never be the same.

adapted from Genesis 2:4—3:24

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BeginAsk: What is a promise? (a commit-ment that we make) What are some promises we might make? (Answers will vary.) What happens if we don’t follow through on our promises? (Possible answer: People might think that we are not trustworthy.) Say: Now we’re going to read about a promise God has made to us.

ConnectInvite volunteers to read aloud the page. Explain that Original Sin is the loss of holiness and justice that resulted from Adam and Eve’s choice to turn away from God. Ask: What is the result of Original Sin? (a world full of temptation where it can be difficult to follow God’s plan for us) What happens when we give in to temptation? (We turn away from God. We harm our rela-tionship with him and with others.) Does God give up on us when we sin? (No.) What did he promise? (that a Savior would come to save us from our sins) Who is this Savior? (Jesus) Point out the word Salvation. Ask: What hap-pens though God’s gift of Salvation? (forgiveness of sins and the restoration of our friendship with God)

Ask: How can we make up for our bad choices? (Possible answers: cele-brate the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, say “I’m sorry”) How does God forgive us? (through Jesus, through the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation) Say: God knows that sin is part of our world. However, God has sent a Savior to show us how to live and to save us from our sins.

CloseDisplay Art Print 3: Christ the Redeemer. Use the Art Print 3 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 231.

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art Print 3

Christ the Redeemer

Service: A Picture-Book LibraryHave children make picture books of the story of Adam and Eve for younger parishioners to enjoy. Children can draw or paint pictures of scenes and include a brief caption for each illustration. Arrange a time for children to share their books with a younger group of children.



exPlore

God’s PromiseAdam and Eve turned away from God. They walked away from the life of grace that God had given them. As a result we are born into Original Sin and live in a world full of temptation where it can be difficult to follow God’s plan for us.

Like Adam and Eve, when we give in to temptation, we also turn away from God. We harm our relationship with him and with others.

God did not give up on Adam and Eve, and he will not give up on us. He promised that a Savior would come to save us from our sins. He promised that Mary would be Jesus’ mother, and that Salvation, the forgiveness of sins and the restoration of friendship with God, would come through his Son, Jesus.

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Prayer


children’s pagePrepare Pray the prayer in advance to become familiar with it.

Pray Display the Finding God poster Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love. Turn the group’s attention to the prayer in their books. Then say: Today we’re going to pray together the Act of Hope. Read aloud the sentence before the prayer.

Tell children that the word infinite means “unending” and that the merits of Jesus Christ are those things Jesus has done to save us from our sins.

Invite children to pray the prayer together. Then read aloud the para-graph following the prayer. Say: Now let’s spend a few moments with God and tell him in our own words that we love and trust him. Allow time for children to pray silently. Close the prayer by praying together the Glory Be to the Father.

Say: With this same spirit of prayer-fulness, let’s reflect on how we can use our free will to make good choices.

Asking for HelpRemind children that prayer is a way for us to express our hope and trust in God. After praying together, invite children to write a paragraph about something they would like God’s help with. Point out that when we ask for God’s help, we are praying a prayer of petition.

FYiCoaching Children

to PrayTell children that the Act of Hope and the Act of Faith [from Session 2] are like family keepsakes or heirlooms passed on from generation to generation. Point out that when we pray these prayers, we affirm our Catholic heritage.


reflect

Prayer

Our Hope in GodWe pray the Act of Hope to express our trust in God.

Act of Hope

O my God, relying on your infinite

mercy and promises,

I hope to obtain pardon of my sins,

the help of your grace, and life

everlasting,

through the merits of Jesus Christ,

my Lord and Redeemer.

Amen.

After you pray the Act of Hope, spend a few minutes with God, telling him that you love him and trust him to take care of you.




If TIme Allows



BeginWrite on the board the word temptation. Ask: What is temptation? (something that can lead us away from following God) What are some temp-tations that we might face? (Possible answers: disobeying our parents, argu-ing with our siblings, cheating on our schoolwork) What happens when we give in to temptation? (We harm our relationship with God and with others.) What can we do when we are faced with temptation? (Possible answers: use our free will to make good choices, pray to the Holy Spirit for help, remember to practice the virtues)

ConnectInvite a volunteer to read aloud the section Using Our Free Will. Have small groups complete the activity. If time allows, encourage groups to write more than one response to each situation.

CloseBefore the session write on note cards a variety of additional tempta-tions that children might encounter. Distribute the cards to small groups. Ask groups to discuss how they might respond to each temptation. Then invite groups to act out one of their scenes. After each group presents, discuss other ways someone might choose to respond to the temptation.

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3

Making Good ChoicesAsk small groups to think of situations in which someone faces temptation. Invite the groups to act out their situa-tions. Discuss how a follower of Jesus’ might respond to each temptation.

FYiTemptation

The grace of Baptism has freed us from sin. However, it has not freed us from temptation, the attraction we feel to act in ways we know are wrong. Only God knows all the good in each of us. Resisting temptation brings us closer to knowing the goodness within us that comes from God’s grace.


reflect

Using Our Free WillThe children in the following situations are faced with temptation. They can use their free will to choose to turn away from God or follow God’s plan for them. How might they use their free will to make good choices? Write your ideas on the lines.

1. Celia really wants a new skateboard, but she knows that her mom will not buy her one. One day Celia and her friends are playing in the park. When it is time to leave, she sees a skateboard that she knows one of her classmates has left at the park. What might Celia do?

Answers will vary.

2. Olivia and her friends are walking down the hall at school. Marta, a new girl, walks past them. Olivia’s friends begin saying unkind things about Marta. What might Olivia do?

3. Max’s father has asked him to walk the family dog before he goes out to play. One of Max’s friends calls and invites him to a movie that starts in half an hour. If Max goes to the movie, he will not have time to walk the dog. What might Max do?

REFL

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?

?

?

?

?

SESSION 3 • God’s Plan for Salvation 19



If TIme Allows




Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Read aloud this sec-tion. Invite volunteers to retell the story of Adam and Eve.

Ask: What does it mean to give in to temptation? (to choose to do some-thing that prevents us from following God’s plan for us) What happens when we give in to temptation? (We harm our relationship with God and with one another.) How has God offered us the gift of Salvation? (through Jesus)

ConnectWord I Learned Invite a volunteer to define the word Salvation. Encourage children to look up the word in the Glossary if necessary. Ask: What can you do to thank God for the gift of Salvation? (Possible answer: pray a prayer of thanks to God)

Ways of Being Like Jesus Read aloud this section. Ask children to name ways they can demonstrate to others that they have trust in God.

Prayer

Say: Let’s prepare ourselves for prayer. After children are ready, say: Pray aloud the prayer with me. Then allow a few seconds for silent reflection. Close the prayer by leading children in praying the Sign of the Cross.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: Keep track of the good deeds you do for others this week. I can’t wait to hear about them.

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3



reSPond

With My Family

Activity Perform a good deed for one another in the coming week. At the end of the week, talk about what everyone did and how it made each person feel.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: If you could make one wish come true for someone else, what would you wish for and for whom would you wish it? Why?

Family Prayer Dear God, thank you for the gift of Salvation. Help us be thankful for this great gift.

PrayerThank you, God, for sending us a Savior to mend our

relationship with you. Help us mend our relationships

with others too.

Livi

ng M

y Fa

ith

Faith SummaryAdam and Eve turned away from God by giving in to temptation. When we give in to temptation, we turn away from God. We harm our relationship with him and with one another. However, God did not abandon Adam and Eve, and he will not abandon us. God has offered us the gift of Salvation through his Son, Jesus.

Word I Learned

Salvation


Jesus’ actions showed that he trusted in God his Father. Let your words and actions demonstrate to others that you trust in God.

RESP

OND




If TIme Allows




ScriptureGalatians 5:22–23 lists the Fruits of the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 6:10 reminds us to ask that God’s will be done in our lives.

TraditionAs rational beings created by God, we have the free will to make moral choices and to live in relationship with God. We live in true freedom when our will aligns with God’s will. This is expressed in love for others. Original Sin, however, undermines our abil-ity to choose wisely. The virtue of prudence helps us to make correct choices and to recognize the good in every situation. Developing a well-formed conscience helps us to cultivate prudence.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching themes are Call to Family, Community, and Participation; Life and Dignity of the Human Person; and Rights and Responsibilities. See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Window on the CatechismHow to live according to our conscience is discussed in CCC 1783–1789. The necessity of following our conscience concerning judgments that are in error is found in CCC 1790–1794.

General Directory of CatechesisConversion to Jesus Christ by learning to walk in his footsteps is explored in GDC 85.

As you prepare for the session, pause for a moment of quiet reflection. Breathe deeply and be aware of the loving presence of God, who is with you as you share your faith with children.

Galatians 5:22–23

In contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,

patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness,

self-control. Against such there is no law.

ReflectionWe live in a world that encourages individual choice and personal freedom. We might think that this freedom entitles us to do whatever we want. As Paul notes in his letter to the Galatians, however, true freedom means living in the Spirit. When we follow the Spirit, the Spirit helps us to make prudent choices. We cannot, though, assume that just because the Spirit leads us, we do not have to do anything. We have a responsibility to form our conscience so that we are prepared to cooperate with the Holy Spirit to choose to live in true freedom. When we live in true freedom, we exhibit the Fruits of the Holy Spirit.

QuestionWe live in a culture where, for the most part, freedom means doing whatever you want, whenever you want. What steps can I take to quiet myself and hear the Holy Spirit speaking to me?

Prayer

Pray to the Spirit, using this prayer or one of your own.

Holy Spirit, help me to be aware of your presence

within me. Fill me with your many gifts.

Un It 1 • Session 4 21a


session 4

God Calls Us to Obey



Before This Session▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Galatians 5:22–23 and Matthew 6:9–13. Place the open Bible in your prayer center.



engage

God Calls Us to Obey Page 21 10 minutes

explore

The Fruits of the Holy Spirit Page 22

Examination of Conscience Page 23

Art Print: Dove of the Spirit art Print and Print Back

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: Making good choices Page 24

A Helping Hand Page 25

15–20 minutes

respond


MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 4: Dove of the Spirit and Children’s Book page 232

▶▶ CD player

▶▶ CD 2, Track 17 or 18: “Reflective Music”

if Time Allows▶▶ Newspapers, tape (page 21)

▶▶ Art supplies (pages 22, 23, 24, 25)


▶▶ List of parishioners preparing to celebrate First Reconciliation, art supplies (page 23)


SeSSion 4 God Calls Us to Obeysession Theme: God speaks to us through our conscience.

Prayer in Session 4

In this session chil-dren review how to make an examination of conscience, whether in preparation for the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation or as a regular part of their prayer lives.






SeSSion 4

outcomeS

▶▶ Identify the Fruits of the Holy Spirit.

▶▶ Explain what we can do to form a good conscience.

▶▶ Explain why it is important to make a frequent examination of conscience.

▶▶ Define prudence.

Set the StageAsk: Who are some people who ask us to follow rules? (Possible answers: parents, teachers, police officers) What are some rules we are asked to follow? (Possible answers: keep our rooms clean, raise our hands before speaking, not to play in the street) Why is it important for us to follow rules? (Possible answer: to keep us safe)

Get StartedRead aloud the session title and the text in the blue box. Explain that in a free society, citizens have certain rights. Point out that with rights come responsibilities that help keep us safe and help us live together peacefully. Invite volunteers to share their responses to the question.


Say: Today we’re going to learn about the importance of making good choices. We’ll also discuss behaviors that help us follow God’s plan for us.

Prayer

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: Let’s pray together, asking God to help us make good choices. Pray the prayer together. Then say: Now let’s take a moment to pray silently. Pause to allow time for children to finish their prayers. Close by praying together the Sign of the Cross.

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Choices in the NewsDraw on the board a T-chart with the headings Good Choices and Bad Choices. Distribute newspapers and ask children to tear out stories of people making good choices and bad choices. Ask children to tape the stories they find to the board under the appropriate heading. Discuss the good choices that people have made and how those who made bad choices could have made better ones.


engage

PrayerDear God, please fill us with your love. Help us listen to you

so that we always make good choices.

We live in a free society.

This means that the

government cannot tell us

where to live, what job to

do, or how to worship God.

Being free, however, does

not mean that we can do

whatever we want. What

are some things that our

society says we may

not do?

SESSION 4

God Calls Us to Obey

21



If TIme Allows

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for an examina-tion of conscience you can use with children.



BeginAsk if anyone is familiar with Jiminy Cricket from the movie Pinocchio. Explain that Jiminy Cricket serves as Pinicchio’s conscience. Ask: What does your conscience help you do? (Possible answer: distinguish between right and wrong) What gift did God give us that allows us to choose between right and wrong? (free will)

Say: Today we are going to learn how to form a good conscience so that we can make choices that help us live as God wants us to live.

ConnectRead aloud the section The Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Explain

that the Fruits of the Holy Spirit are behaviors we exhibit when we act as God wants us to act. Ask: What are the Fruits of the Holy Spirit? (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control) Discuss the meaning of each Fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Invite a volunteer to read aloud the section Forming a Good Conscience. Emphasize that prudence is a gift that helps us make good decisions. Remind children that when faced with temptation, we can pray to the Holy Spirit for help. Ask children to name situations when it might be helpful to pray to the Holy Spirit for the gift of prudence.


Reading God's Word

Read aloud the verse. Ask: Where does this verse come from? (the Lord’s Prayer) Show children where in the Bible the Lord’s Prayer appears. [Matthew 6:9–13, Luke 11:2–4] Read aloud one of the passages.

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Fruits of the Holy SpiritDistribute paper, pens or pencils, crayons, and markers. Ask children to design a symbol for one of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Ask volunteers to share their completed symbols with the group.


exPlore

Reading God’s Word [Y]our kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Matthew 6:10

The Fruits of the Holy SpiritSaint Paul told his friends that as long as they followed the Holy Spirit in true freedom and made these qualities a part of their lives, they would know that their acts were good.

The Fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,

generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

adapted from Galatians 5:22–23

Forming a Good ConscienceAt times we are tempted to hurt our relationship with others. When tempted, we can use our free will to choose to make good decisions. Saint Paul taught that we can live in true freedom if we cooperate with the Holy Spirit.

The virtue of prudence helps us recognize the good in every situation and make good choices. The Holy Spirit helps us be prudent by helping us form a good conscience. We do this by studying the teachings of the Church and following the guidance of our families and Church leaders.

EXPL

ORE




If TIme Allows



BeginAsk: What does it mean to examine something? (to look at it closely) When might we experience an examination? (Possible answers: A doctor might exam-ine our health. A teacher might examine our homework.) Say: As Jesus’ follow-ers, we examine our lives to make sure we are living as God wants us to live.

ConnectRead aloud the section Examination of Conscience. Ask: With whom do we cooperate when we make an examina-tion of conscience? (the Holy Spirit) Why do we examine our conscience? (to see how well we are living up to our com-mitment to Jesus Christ in our thoughts, our words, and our actions) What can we reflect on when we examine our conscience? (the Ten Commandments, the teachings of the Church, what God calls us to do every day) What do we think about when we make an exami-nation of conscience? (our relationships with God and with others, how we are growing as Christians) When might we make an examination of conscience? (Possible answers: as part of our prayer before we go to bed each night, before celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation)

Read aloud the section Positive Choices. Give children time to make an examination of conscience, using page 210 in the back of their books. Then give children time to complete the activity. Invite volunteers to share their ideas.

CloseDisplay Art Print 4: Dove of the Spirit. Use the Art Print 4 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 232.

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Art Print 4

Dove of the Spirit

Session 4 BLMmaking the Right Choice Have children complete the Session 4 Blackline Master [T-296] to gain practice in making good choices.

Service: Cards for OthersObtain from your catechetical leader a list of children who are prepar-ing to celebrate First Reconciliation. Distribute paper, pens or pencils, crayons, and markers. Ask children to make cards for those who are preparing for the sacrament. Encourage children to write a note inside the card, letting the recipient know that the person who made the card is praying for him or her. Collect the completed cards and arrange to have them delivered. Remind children to pray for the people to whom their cards will be given.



exPlore

Examination of ConscienceOne way we can cooperate with the Holy Spirit in forming a good conscience is by making a frequent examination of conscience. We make an examination of conscience to see how well we are living up to our commitment to Jesus Christ in our thoughts, our words, and our actions. When we do this, we reflect on the Ten Commandments, the teachings of the Church, and what God calls us to do every day. This kind of reflection helps us prepare to celebrate the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, often called the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

When we examine our consciences, we think about our relationships with God and with others and about how we are growing as Christians.

Positive Choices

Read An Examination of Conscience on page 210. The questions will help you think about the positive choices you are being called to make. Write about one positive choice you can make during the next week.

Answers will vary.

EXPL

ORE

GO TOPAGE

232

SESSION 4 • God Calls Us to Obey 23



If TIme Allows



Prayer


children’s pagePrepare Read this page in advance to become familiar with

it. You may wish to play reflective music as you lead children in this reflection.

Pray Direct children’s attention to the reflection. Say: We have learned about making an examination of conscience. Let’s take a few minutes to reflect on what we have learned.

Read aloud the first two para-graphs. Say: It is important to think about our relationships to make sure we are treating people with dignity and respect. Ask children to reflect silently on the questions in the second paragraph. Encourage children to thank God for all the people with whom they have special relationships.

Read aloud the last paragraph. After you finish, allow time for silent reflection. Close by praying Amen and asking children to offer one another a sign of peace.

Say: With that same spirit of prayer, let’s learn more about making respect-ful choices. Respecting Others

Distribute paper and pens or pencils. Have children make a list of ways that they can treat their friends, family, and neighbors with love and respect during the next week.


to PrayBefore praying, remind children that God’s grace is always present and available to us. Explain that this grace helps strengthen and guide us in our efforts to do what is right. Tell children that by opening our hearts, we receive God’s grace.


reflect

Prayer

Making Good ChoicesIt is a good practice to make a frequent examination of conscience instead of waiting until you are about to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. If you examine your conscience often, you can focus on one part of the examination at a time. For example one day reflect on your relationship with God. The next day reflect on your relationships with others or on your growth as a Christian.

Take a moment to think about your relationships with others. Do you treat everyone with respect? What can you do to improve your relationships with your family, friends, and neighbors?

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you grow in prudence and live in true freedom.




If TIme Allows



BeginLead children in a discussion about respect. Ask: What does it mean to respect someone? (Possible answer: to treat that person as we want to be treated) What are some ways that we can show respect to others? (Accept reasonable responses.) Why, do you think, is it important to show respect to others? (Possible answers: because we are all brothers and sisters in God, because Jesus taught us to love and respect others)

ConnectInvite volunteers to read aloud the section A Helping Hand. Ask: What decision did Sophia face? (whether to help Evan) What did she choose to do? (help Evan) Why? (She wanted to show respect.) What else could she have done? (She could have ignored Evan and continued walking home.) How did her choice make her feel? (It made her feel good, even though she was late to her friend’s house.) What might you have done in this situation? (Accept reason-able responses.)

Read aloud the section Write About Respect. Give children time to complete the activity. Invite vol-unteers to share their ideas with the group.


Meet a Saint

Read aloud the paragraph about Saint Peter Canisius. Ask: How did Saint Peter Canisius help his friend Father Couvillon? (He helped his friend over-come pride and get along with people.) How can we be more like Saint Peter Canisius? (Possible answers: We can make an effort to get along with one another. We can encourage our friends to treat other people with kindness and respect.)

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3Advice ColumnHave children write a short advice column for children who are being bullied. Ask children to include advice on what to do if they are being bullied and advice for what to do if they see someone else being bullied. Invite volunteers to share their advice columns with the group.

Life and Dignity

IdeAs to shAreSaint Peter Canisius

Peter Canisius was born in Holland in 1521. He studied at Cologne, Germany, joined the Society of Jesus, and was ordained a priest in 1546. Peter was sent to Germany, where he spent many years working to strengthen the faith of Catholics through his preaching, instruction, and writings.


reflect

Meet a SaintSaint Peter Canisius was a Jesuit priest. He always tried to see good in people. His friend Father Couvillon was often so sharp and angry with people that they did not want to be around him. Peter helped Father Couvillon overcome his pride and get along with people. Thanks to Peter, Father Couvillon was able to lead a better life.

A Helping HandSophia had been thinking about how important it is to show respect. One day she decided to put respect into practice. Sophia saw a new classmate, Evan, sitting on the ground, books scattered all around him. She saw a few classmates running away. Sophia was in a hurry to get home so that she could go to a friend’s house, but she knew that Evan needed help.

She walked over to him and stretched out her hand. She asked, “Can I help you?” He told her that the boys had knocked him down for fun.

Sophia helped Evan to his feet. Together they picked up his books. She was a little late getting to her friend’s house, but she felt good knowing that she had shown someone respect. Sophia was sure that she had followed the path God had chosen for her.

REFL

ECT

Write About Respect

What are some ways you can show respect for your classmates?

Answers will vary.

SESSION 4 • God Calls Us to Obey 25



If TIme Allows




Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Invite a volunteer to read aloud this section. Ask: What does our free will allow us to do? (make good choices) How can we live in true freedom? (by making an examination of conscience and cooperating with the Holy Spirit) Why is it important to make an examination of conscience? (to make sure we are living as God wants us to live)

ConnectWord I Learned Say aloud the word prudence. Ask children to use the word in a sentence. Invite children to share situations in which it might be helpful to have the gift of prudence.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Read aloud this section. Remind children that prayer is one way for us to form good consciences.

Prayer

Have children close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud the prayer. Say: Take a moment to pray your own prayer to the Holy Spirit. Allow a few moments for chil-dren to pray silently. Conclude by praying aloud Amen.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: The Holy Spirit will help us do the right thing. Let’s remember to pray for guidance in making good decisions this week.

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reSPond

With My Family

Activity Read aloud a children’s book, such as The Rainbow Fish or The Selfish Giant, in which the characters respond to a temptation. Discuss whether you would make the same choices as the characters.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: What is one way I can make the Fruits of the Holy Spirit a part of my life?

Family Prayer God, help us follow the Holy Spirit by using our free will to make prudent choices. Guide us to examine our actions and form good consciences.

PrayerHoly Spirit, help us follow you and use our free will to

make prudent choices.Li

ving

My

Faith

Faith SummaryAlthough we are all tempted to sin, we can use free will to make good choices. When we make an examination of conscience and cooperate with the Holy Spirit, we can choose to live in true freedom and to practice the virtue of prudence.

Word I Learned

prudence


Jesus formed a good conscience by spending time in prayer. Form a good conscience by making a frequent examination of conscience.

RESP

OND




If TIme Allows



3-Minute Retreat

Before preparing for the session, take a moment to reflect on how you have responded to God’s call of discipleship.

Ephesians 5:8–9

Live as children of light, for light produces every kind of

goodness and righteousness and truth.

ReflectionGod has blessed us with the gift of free will. As a result of Adam and Eve’s choice, we are born into Original Sin and live in a world that is full of temptations to turn away from God. In Jesus, God has given us a model for how to live. When we choose to follow Jesus to God the Father, we live in true freedom and share God’s peace and love with others. During Ordinary Time we reflect on our call to discipleship. We pray for the strength to follow Jesus’ example so that we may share his light with others.

QuestionHow do my words and actions show that I am a child of the light?

Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 5Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of the session content.

ScriptureEphesians 5:8–10 teaches us that when we live as Jesus’ disciples, we live as children of the light.

Luke 4:17–19 summarizes some of the ministries to which Jesus’ disciples are called.

TraditionOver time the Church has developed a liturgical calendar to help us celebrate important events in the lives of Jesus and Mary. The cyclical nature of this calendar reminds us that each year we are called to enter into Christ’s Paschal Mystery. The Church celebrates Ordinary Time twice during each litur-gical year. The first period is after the Christmas season until Ash Wednesday. The second period is after the Easter season until the First Sunday of Advent. Throughout this season we learn more about Jesus’ teachings. Through the sermons Jesus preached, the signs and miracles he worked, and the way he treated others—especially those who were marginalized and outcast—Jesus gave us an example of how to live.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching theme is Call to Family, Community, and Participation. See page 1b for an explanation of this theme.

Window on the CatechismThe ways in which we enter into fellowship with Jesus in the ordinary events of daily life are found in CCC 533.

General Directory of CatechesisWe are reminded that the object of catechesis is union with Jesus Christ in GDC 80–81.

Prayer

Speak to God, using this prayer or one of your own.

Gracious God, thank you for giving us a role

model in Jesus. May my words and actions always

reflect my desire to live as his disciple.

Un IT 1 • Session 5 27a


session 5

Celebrating Ordinary Time



Before This Session▶▶ Determine whether you will use the Unit Assessment option listed on page 30.

▶▶ Determine whether you will also discuss the All Saint’s Day and All Souls Day seasonal pages in the back of the Children’s Book.

▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Ephesians 5:8–10. Place the open Bible in your prayer center.



engage

Celebrating Ordinary Time Page 27 10 minutes

explore

We Grow in Virtue During Ordinary Time Page 28 25–35 minutes

reflect

Mass During Ordinary Time Page 29

Art Print: Those That Don’t See art Print and Print Back

20–25 minutes

respond


MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Calendar to display

▶▶ Art Print 5: Those That Don’t See and Children’s Book page 233

if Time Allows▶▶ Sidewalk chalk (page 27)

▶▶ Art supplies (page 27)



▶▶ Unit 1 Assessment, T-298–T-300 (page 30)

SeSSion 5 Celebrating Ordinary Timesession Theme: Ordinary Time is a time to grow as Jesus’ disciples.

Prayer in Session 5

The prayers in this ses-sion encourage children to ask God to help them grow as Jesus’ disciples. Prayer time includes the opportunity for children to pray to God, using their own words. During this time children may wish to share with God anything that is on their minds or in their hearts.






SeSSion 5

outcomeS

▶▶ Explain when the Church celebrates Ordinary Time.

▶▶ State that we are called to share Christ’s light with others.

▶▶ Define discipleship.

Set the StageDisplay a calendar. Ask: Why do people use calendars? (Possible answers: to remember appointments, to record special events) Explain that in addition to the regular calendar, there are other types of calendars, such as an academic calendar and the Church calendar. Say: In this session we’re going to learn about one of the seasons that is part of the Church’s calendar.

Get StartedInvite volunteers to read aloud the session title and the page. Ask: Why do we celebrate feasts and seasons? (to remind us of the great things God has done for us) How many times during the year do we celebrate Ordinary Time? (two) What two feasts do we celebrate in the fall, near the end of Ordinary Time? (All Souls Day and All Saints Day)

Say: In this session we will learn how Ordinary Time helps us grow as Jesus’ disciples.

Prayer

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: Let’s pray, asking Jesus to help us become more aware of his presence during Ordinary Time. Ask a volunteer to pray aloud the prayer. Then say: Let’s take a moment to talk to Jesus silently. Allow time for children to finish praying. Conclude by praying together the Sign of the Cross.

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Inclusion: AttentionCalendar Alfresco If you have children with attention differences, you may wish to take the children outside to a large area of concrete or blacktop. Have children work together to make a giant liturgical calendar, using sidewalk chalk. Encourage children to use appropriate symbols to decorate each season of the Church year.

Family Prayer BookDistribute paper, pens or pencils, crayons, and markers. Invite children to make family prayer books. Encourage children to include traditional and original prayers in their prayer books. Refer children to the Prayers and Practices of Our Faith section in the back of their books for ideas about prayers to include in their prayer books [pages 188–197].


engage

The Church celebrates feasts and seasons to remind us of the great things God has done for us. These celebrations help us remember how much God loves us.

Ordinary Time is one Church season. We celebrate it twice each liturgical year—between Christmas and Ash Wednesday and after the Easter season until the Advent season. All Souls Day and All Saints Day are two feasts celebrated in the fall, near the end of Ordinary Time.

The name of the season, Ordinary Time, does not mean that the season is common. Ordinary comes from the word ordinal, meaning “time that is put in a certain order.” Each week is referred to by which number week it is, such as the Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time.

SESSION 5Celebrating

Ordinary Time

PrayerDear God, we know you are with us during Ordinary Time.

Help us follow the example of Jesus, the Light of the World.

27



If TIme Allows



BeginInvite children to name and describe different virtues. Ask: Why is it impor-tant to practice the virtues in our lives? (Possible answer: Practicing the virtues helps us follow God’s plan for us.)

ConnectRead aloud the section We Grow in Virtue During Ordinary Time. Ask: What do we try to better understand during this season? (Jesus’ invitation to love God, to serve others, and to avoid sin) What does God’s grace help us do? (grow in virtue and avoid temptation)

Point out that virtues are habits we can strengthen through practice. Use the following to define the listed virtues. [honesty: truthfulness; charity: love; patience: waiting for something, even when it is difficult to do so; prudence: being directed toward the good; joy: happiness; hope: trust that God will always be with us; justice: the desire to give to God and to others what is due to them; courage: bravery; faith: belief in something that can-not be seen; temperance: moderation in thought, action, and feeling; and self-control: the ability to control one’s thoughts, actions, and feelings]

Read aloud the section Growing Strong. Give children time to com-plete the activity.


Reading God's Word

Read aloud the Scripture verse. Explain the passage by saying: Jesus shows us how to live. An apple tree cannot grow without sunlight. With light it produces lots of apples. When we live in Jesus’ light by following his teachings, we produce good things, just like an apple tree.

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Session 5 BLMGrowing in Virtue Have children complete the Session 5 Blackline Master [T-297] to think about opportunities for practicing virtues.

Seasonal Session: All Saints Day and All Souls DayWork with children through pages 177–180 of the Children’s Book and this guide. This special session can take up to one hour to complete.


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Reading God’s WordLive as children of light, for light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth. Try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Ephesians 5:8–10

We Grow in Virtue During Ordinary TimeDuring Ordinary Time we are called to grow in faith and to reflect on how Jesus wants us to live. We try to better understand Jesus’ invitation to love God, to serve others, and to avoid sin. We seek the light of God’s grace to help us grow in virtue and to avoid temptation. We thank God for the many opportunities he gives us to serve others.

Virtues are like good habits. They are behaviors we can strengthen if we practice them. Some of the virtues we can practice in our lives include honesty, charity, patience, prudence, joy, hope, justice, courage, faith, temperance, and self-control.

Growing Strong

Write how you can practice and develop the virtues in your life.

Answers will vary.

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BeginAsk children to retell Gospel stories in which Jesus teaches what it means to be a disciple. You may wish to use John 13:1–9 or Matthew 10:40–42 as examples.

ConnectRead aloud the section Mass During Ordinary Time. Point out the vocab-ulary word. Ask: What do disciples do? (believe in and follow Jesus’ teach-ings) Say: In addition to following Jesus’ teachings, disciples also follow his example. Ask: When is the call to discipleship first received? (Baptism) How is it nourished? (through the Eucharist) How is it strengthened? (in Confirmation)

Invite a volunteer to read aloud the section What We Experience. Discuss the location of the sanctuary lamp in your church. Emphasize that the candles in church symbolize the light of Christ and remind us that we are called to share Christ’s light with others.

Read aloud the section Sharing Christ’s Light. Allow time for chil-dren to complete the activity.

Did You Know?

Read aloud the feature. Remind children that Ordinary Time goes from the Monday after the Baptism of the Lord until the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, and then from the Monday after Pentecost until the first Sunday of Advent.

CloseDisplay Art Print 5: Those That Don’t See. Use the Art Print 5 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 233.

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Art Print 5

Those That Don’t See

Service: Liturgical MinistryDiscuss the opportunities for liturgical ministry in your parish. Explain what each ministry is and how the ministry helps people celebrate the Mass. Coordinate with your catechetical leader to have children serve as liturgical ministers. Encourage children to serve the parish as ushers, greeters, song leaders, or altar servers.



reflect

Mass During Ordinary TimeWhen we go to Mass during Ordinary Time, we often hear Scripture readings about the call to discipleship. As disciples we believe in and follow Jesus’ teachings. The call to discipleship is received in Baptism, nourished in the Eucharist, strengthened in Confirmation, and practiced in the world. We learn how Jesus lived and treated others so that we can follow his example.

What We ExperienceWhen we look around the church, we see candles. The sanctuary lamp, often near the tabernacle, reminds us that Christ is present in a special way in the Blessed Sacrament. The candles at the altar remind us that Christ is present in the celebration of the Eucharist. The light of the candles also reminds us that, as disciples, we are called to practice the virtues and to share the light of Christ with others.

Sharing Christ’s Light

Write how you can share the light of Christ with others.

Answers will vary.

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Did You Know?Depending on the year, Ordinary Time runs either 33 or 34 weeks.

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Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Read aloud this section. Ask: How often do we cele-brate Ordinary Time? (twice each year) How can we grow in discipleship during Ordinary Time? (by practicing the virtues)

ConnectWord I Learned Ask children to suggest words or phrases that clarify the meaning of the word discipleship. Encourage children to name ways people can follow Jesus’ example.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Invite a volunteer read aloud this section. Remind children that virtues are behaviors that grow strong through practice.

Prayer

Ask children to close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud. Say: Let’s take a moment to talk to God in the silence of our hearts. Allow a few seconds for silent reflection. Conclude by praying the Sign of the Cross.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: During Ordinary Time this year, tell me some of the ways you’ve found to act more like Jesus. I can’t wait to hear.

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Unit Assessment OptionIf you wish, photocopy the Unit Assessment on pages T-298–T-300. Administer the assessment during the session or send it home.


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With My Family

Activity When you go to Mass, notice the use of candles. Discuss how you can share the light of Christ with others during the next week.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: What virtues do I admire in others? How can I practice these virtues in my own life?

Family Prayer Use Ordinary Time to invite family members to grow in faith by leading mealtime prayers. Encourage family members to pray a new prayer each time they have a turn.

PrayerDear God, thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus.

Help us grow in virtue so that we can be true disciples. Li

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Faith

Faith SummaryWe celebrate Ordinary Time twice during each liturgical year. During this season we practice the virtues, which helps us grow as disciples. By living the way Jesus wants us to live, we share his light with others.

Word I Learned

discipleship


Jesus practiced faith, hope, and charity. Choose to practice these virtues in your life.

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Documents

Finding God: Grade 4, Parish, Teacher's Edition