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The Essential Goodness of God's Creation and of Humanity
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the problem of evil, original sin, human freedom and the goodness of God's creation.
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Using Small Group Hands On Experiences
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using small group, hands-on activities in the classroom.
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Media Literacy
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses several modes of communication and the importance of media literacy education.
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The Two Basic Sacraments: Christ and the Church
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. The article discusses the two most fundamental sacraments: the person of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church.
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Models of the Church Chart
This chart is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a great resource for understanding Avery Dulles' information on the Models of the Church in an organized chart.
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Written Conversations
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It explains the use of written conversations to facilitate classroom learning and dialogue.
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Critical Questioning Method of Engaging with Texts
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It discusses methods for encouraging students to engage texts they are reading on a deeper level to benefit their learning and the classroom dialogue. This worksheet is helpful for students who …
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Service and Justice: A Conversion of Heart
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses 5 stages in introducing service learning to a classrooom setting.
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Called to Holiness: Holiness in Modern Church Teaching
This article from the Living in Christ Series discusses holiness: what it is, who is called, and how to live it out. Both the Church and the people in it are holy.
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Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience that all religious take as part of their vocation.
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Treating Sensitive Topics
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses and gives tips on how to approach sensitive topics in a classroom environment.
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Understanding Suffering
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It gives a thorough introduction to the concept of suffering in the Bible using scripture passages.
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The Eucharistic Prayers
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the Eucharistic prayers historically, theologically, spiritually, pastorally, devotionally, liturgically, cosmically and celestially.
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The Interfaith Classroom
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses techniques and challenges for teaching Catholic themes in an interfaith classroom environment.
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Resurrection: Past and Present Reality
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the significance of the Resurrection, including how it was viewed in ancient Judaism, in the time of Jesus and the early Christians, and its importance for Christians today.
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Written Conversations
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of classroom discussions as well as suggesting new styles of this method.
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Political and Religious Structure in Jesus' Time
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an extensive overview of the political and religious structures and influences at work in Jesus' time.
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Understanding Parables
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the parables, including definitions, uses, and interpretations.
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Miracles: Signs of the Kingdom of God
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses miracles as signs of the Kingdom of God, including how to reflect on, interpret and make sense of several examples.
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Word Splash
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses and explains the value of using a Word Splash for classroom learning.
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The Lectionary
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discussese the lectionary and the liturgical year of the Catholic Church.
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Critical Questioning Method of Engaging with Texts
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It discusses methods for encouraging students to engage texts they are reading on a deeper level to benefit their learning and the classroom dialogue.
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Using Primary Sources
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using primary source texts in the classroom.
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The Paschal Mystery
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an introduction to the Paschal Mystery including the root of the words, its effects, and theories of how the salvation of mankind precisely transpires through Jesus' suffering, death …
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Matthew's Sermon on the Mount
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount through the lens of Matthew's Jewish audience and signifance.
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Introduction to Acts of Apostles
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It offers a great introduction to the New Testament book, The Acts of the Apostles including its structure, flow, and theological themes,
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Faith: Three Definitions
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It discusses various definitions of faith, the relationships between faith and reason, and faith and religion.
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Discipleship in the New Testament
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the meaning of discipleship in the New Testament, including the Jewish understanding of it, the responsibilities, apostleship, Mark's portrait of the disciples, and a practical application for today.
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Free Will
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the relationship between free will and grace, the conscience, character, and human choices.
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Using Venn Diagrams
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using Venn Diagrams for classroom learning.
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Using a Wiki for Group Projects
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the use of Wikis for classroom group projects, including some suggestions and caveats.
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Overview on Jesus' Parables
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview of Jesus' New Testament parables, including the intent, novelty, paradox, and theological and pastoral quality of the stories he told.
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Mary of Nazareth
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It offers a great introduction and overview of Mary through scripture and tradition, including Marian liturgical feasts and theological teachings and doctrines.
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The Rosary: A Prayer for All Time
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers a great introduction to several aspects of the Rosary.
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History of the Theology of the Incarnation
This artlice is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview of key types of christology, including exaltation and wisdom christologies. It cites various Church Councils that had a great influence on christological teaching and traditions.
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Life and Times in First Century Palestine
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an extensive understanding of the lifestyle and cultural contexts of first century Palestine, including family, gender roles, poverty, wealth, and political, economic and religious laws.
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Salvation: Different Theories
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview of some of the main theories of salvation, including the Prophetic, Sacrificial, Ransom, Divinization, Vicarious, Moral Exemplar, and Penal Substitution models.
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The Women Who Followed Jesus
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. In an organized chart, this resource introduces key women in scripture, including their significance and their story, to students.
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Using a Concordance
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an introduction to using concordances.
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The Trinity
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. Author Arthur David Canales offers an introduction to the Holy Trinity, including the dogma's historical development and key features.
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Introduction to the Gospels
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an introduction to the Gospels in the New Testament, including the formation and the particular christology of each account.
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God Is Love
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. Using Scripture, the Catechism, and various Church Documents, it discusses the Catholic understanding of God as Love.
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Introduction to Revelation
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview and introduction to the Revelation in the Catholic Church, including Natural and Divine Revelation and information the Church Father and the Second Vatican Council.
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Using the Think-Pair-Share Method
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using the Think-Pair-Share Method of classroom learning and discussion.
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Using a Mind Map
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It introduces and explains the concept and method of Mind Maps as a classroom tool.
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Using Rubrics to Assess Work
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It explains the value of using rubrics to assess student work.
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Using Final Performance Tasks to Assess Understanding
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using Final Performance Tasks to assess students.
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Reading the Bible in Context
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview of the value of understanding the historical and cultural contexts of the Bible while still maintaining its divine authorship and influence.
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The Apostles
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the Apostles and followers of Jesus who are known in Scripture, including Peter and Mary Magdalene, among others.
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Introduction to the Letters
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an introduction to the letters of the New Testament, including information on the genre, the Pauline and Deutero-Pauline Letters, and the organization of the New Testament.
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The Acts of the Apostles
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It serves as an introduction to the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament, including its structure, writer, themes, and background.
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Gospel Comparison Chart
This chart helps teachers and students observe the differences between the various contexts, themes, audiences, and time frames of the four Gospels.
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Wonders, Miracles, and Signs in the New Testament
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers a helpful, organized look at some of Jesus' wonder, miracles and signs that point to His divinity.
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The New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It offers an extensive overview of the New Testament, including various types of literature, distinctions among the Gospels, historical context and theological themes.
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Jesus Fulfills the Covenant and Salvation History
This article is from the Living in Christ Series, and it provides an overview of the Old Testament covenant and prophecies which are fulfilled in the New Testament and the person of Jesus Christ.
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Blogging and Beyond
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview of what blogging is and how it can be integrated in the classroom. Several suggested blogs are featured at the end of the article.
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Setting Up a Blog
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It gives an introduction and overview of blogging and its educational value.
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The Book of Jeremiah
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the Book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament, including the political climate of the time and some of his main prophetic messages.
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The Book of Isaiah
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It serves as an introduction to the Book of Isaiah in the Old Testament.
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The Book of Ezekiel
This article gives an overview and introduction to the Book of Ezekiel in the Old Testament.
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Messianism and Zionism
This article is part of the Living in Crhist Series , and it highlights the distinction between Messianism and Zionism.
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The Book of Judges
This article discusses the Book of Judges and the cycle of worship, disobedience, deliverance, and freedom that happen cyclically for the Israelites.
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The Book of Joshua
This article discusses the Book of Joshua, offering a rational and moral critique, then drawing parallels between the Old and New Testaments.
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King Solomon and the Divided Monarchy: The Books of Kings
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series, and it discusses the reign of King David and King Solomon and the divided monarchies of Judah and Israel through scriptural references.
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Introduction to the Historical Books
This article gives a brief introduction to the Historical Books of the Old Testament. This overview includes a distinction between "history" and "historical narratives", as well as highlights the role they play in the Old Testament.
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Using Quotations
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It explains the value of using quotations to facilitate classroom discussions.
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Using Google Earth
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an introduction to the use of Google Earth in the classroom.
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Using the Found-Read Method
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using the "Found-Read" Method to facilitate classroom learning and discussion.
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Using the Take-a-Stand Method
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using the Take-a-Stand Method.
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Moses
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series, and it offers an overview of the person of Moses in the Old Testament, highlighting five major sections in his life: birth, calling, confronting Pharoah, leading the Israelites, and death.
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The Cycle of Redemption
This article discusses the pattern in the Old Testament known as the Cycle of Redemption, or Deuteronomic Cycle, as well as gives examples.
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The Book of Exodus
This article offers a short introduction to the Book of Exodus in the Old Testament.
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The Early Leaders of Israel
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the qualities of leadership possessed by early Israelites using scripture and Biblical stories.
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Check Your Understanding
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. It serves as a review of several important terms and asks students to define, associate, and put the term into the context of Salvation History.
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Original Sin and Its Effects
This article discusses original sin, the effects of sin on relationships, and the criteria with which to make a moral judgment.
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Salvation History Summary
This article gives an overview of the salvific works of God through the Old and New Testaments, with the fulfillment of salvation in the person of Jesus Christ.
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Understanding Genres and Literary Forms
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the various genres and literary forms in the Old and New Testaments.
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The Book of Genesis
This article offers an introduction to the first book in the Bible, the Book of Genesis.
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Introduction to the Pentateuch
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It provides an overview of the Pentateuch - the first five book of the Old Testament.
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Is This a Calling - Saint Teresa of Avila
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a excerpt from the writings of Saint Teresa of Avila about the discernment of her vocation to the religious life.
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Using the Barometer Method
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using the Barometer method to facilitate classroom discussion.
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Using the Jigsaw Process
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using the Jigsaw Process to facilitate classroom learning and discussion.
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Using the Big Paper Exercise
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of using the Big Paper Exercise for classroom discussion.
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Introduction to Revelation, Inspiration, and Vocation
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It discusses Relevation, Inspiration and Vocation, citing the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and scripture. It includes a chart outlining how God revealed Himself to various Biblical characters and a section …
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Finding God and Being Found by God
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses how God is revealed in humanity, creation, nature, the natural order, and the human conscience, and humanity is likewise revealed in God. It uses the Catechism of the …
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Using an Ungraded Association Quiz
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the value of an ungraded association quiz as an assessment or preassessment.
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Introducing Students to Biblical Exegesis
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. Teachers will find this resource helpful for its overview of Biblical exegesis and the references to worksheet handouts for students to use.
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Building Scaffolds for Learning
This article is from the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the notion of structured teaching methods through the model of scaffolding.
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The Story of Noah and Other Flood Narratives
This article discusses the similarities and differences between the Biblical flood story and that of other ancient Middle Eastern traditions. It also compares the Biblical account between the Yahwist and Priestly sources.
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The JEPD Theory
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the four-source theory regarding the first five books of the Bible, the Pentateuch. These sources are called Yahwist, Elohist, Deuteronomist, and Priestly.
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Canons and Their Development
This article discusses the development of the Old and New Testament Canons and provides charts which compare and contrast different Christian or Jewish canons.
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Bible 101: A Basic Introduction to the Word of God
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It gives a basic overview and introduction to Sacred Scripture, including context, inspiration, literary forms, the Old and New Testaments, interpretation, and common myths.
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Reading Notes and Questions for Student Book Articles 9-12
This reading guide is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can use it while reading other articles from the LIC Series to take important notes and answer significant questions.
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The Format of the Pauline Letters
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. It outlines the format of Paul's letters in the New Testament.
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Messianic Prophecies
This resource if from the Living in Christ Series. It is a clear and organized presentation of Old Testament prophecies are fulfilled in the person of Jesus.
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Biblical Passages About Leadership
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a helpful reference for scriptural passages in the Old Testament referring to leadership. Various kings, judges, and other leaders are featured.
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The Cycle of Redemption
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students may use it as a quick reference to key ideas behind the Cycle of Redemption in the Old Testament.
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The Ten Commandments
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. It outlines the 10 Commandments, the meaning, and the book, chapter and verse at which they are found in the Bible.
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Sprint Through Salvation History
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers a thorough but brief overview of Salvation History in the Bible, beginning with the promises of God and ending in their fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
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"The Fingerprints of God" Reflection Questions
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can reflect on the fingprints of God in creation and other people through these questions.
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New Testament References to Eternal Life
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. It lists several passages in which Eternal Life is referenced in the New Testament. Students can reflect on these passages and answer questions about them.
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Questions for Made-to-Love
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can reflect on the song "Made-to-Love" by TobyMac by answering the questions on this worksheet.
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Discovering God
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. It helps students discover the various ways and places they can interact with and meet God: in their daily lives, through others, and in creation.
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Reflection about Personal Beliefs and Knowledge
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can reflect on and answer questions about their experience with faith, their beliefs, and their personal convictions and commitments to a faith/religion tradition.
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Catechist Tip Sheet 6: Using the Scriptures
The Scriptures play a critical role in our faith growth as a source of inspiration, celebration, education, and formation. As a catechist you should become comfortable with using the Scriptures, and nurture such comfort in young people.
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Catechist Tip Sheet 5: Helping Young Adolescents to Pay Attention
Handout that Catechists attending Session need to print out/can use. Resource
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Catechist Tip Sheet 3: Effective Story Telling
Handout that Catechists attending Session need to print out/can use. Resource
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Catechist Tip Sheet 4: Effective Group Management
Handout that Catechists attending Session need to print out/can use. Resource
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Catechist Tip Sheet 1: Developmental Characteristics of Young Adolescents
Handout that Catechists attending Session need to print out/can use. Resource
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Catechist Tip Sheet 2: Active Learning and Faith Formation
Handout that Catechists attending Session need to print out/can use. Resource
Article
The Sacramental Priesthood
The Origins of the Priesthood The origins of the priesthood go back to the Old Testament. One of the tribes of ancient Israel, the tribe of Levi, was set apart for priestly service (see Numbers 3:5–10). The tribe's role was …
Article
From the Author: Beth Dotson Brown
God is always at work in my life and once in awhile, I am blessed with the knowledge about where God is guiding me precisely when it's happening.So it was in the summer of 2005. As a longtime freelance writer …
Article
Surprised by the Joyful Mysteries: They Taught Me to Say Yes
For years I fingered my rosary at night when I couldn't sleep, repeating my childhood prayers without thinking much about their meaning. I wasn't even fully aware of the "mysteries" I was supposed to be meditating on; I just wanted …
Article
Short History of Paul
Paul was a diaspora Jew, meaning he was a Jew that lived outside of Palestine. Paul was born in Tarsus--which is modern day Turkey--at the beginning of the Christian era. Tarsus was a large and prosperous city of the Roman …
Article
Lasallian Meditation on Saint Paul
June 30: Saint Paul 140.1 First Point The most admirable trait in Saint Paul is his all-embracing and ardent zeal, which he first showed by defending the faith of Moses, in which he had been very well instructed.1 Because he …
Article
Saint Paul: Interview and Worksheet
Interview with Paul This interview with Paul is from Breakthrough! The Bible for Young Catholics. On this colorful page, Paul explains his ministry and his legacy. Worksheet about Paul On this worksheet from the Student Activities Workbook for Breakthrough!: An …
Article
Paul: Legacy of Love
[Love] bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. (1 Corinthians 13:7) Paul preached that the central message of Jesus Christ was love. Without love, no amount of faith or religious piety has any meaning. Paul …
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Paul: The Journey to Rome
If God is for us, who is against us? (Romans 8:31) In Paul's last trip to Jerusalem to say farewell before leaving to preach in Spain, he was arrested by the Romans. As a Roman citizen, Paul exercised his right …
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Paul: Missionary
[Paul] had opened a door of faith for the Gentiles. (Acts of the Apostles 14:27) Known as the apostle to the Gentiles (non-Jews), Paul was a leader in taking the Gospel message beyond Israel. With his trusted companions--Barnabas, John Mark, …
Article
Paul: Theologian
They were attempting to kill [Paul]. When the believers learned of it . . . they sent him off to Tarsus. (Acts of the Apostles 9:29–30) After his conversion, Paul began to preach, but when it became too dangerous, he …
Article
Paul: A Profound Conversion
[Saul] heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" (Acts of the Apostles 9:4) It was on his way to Damascus that Paul was struck down by God and blinded. A brilliant light from heaven …
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Paul: Persecutor of Christians
Saul was ravaging the church by entering house after house; dragging off both men and women . . . To prison. (Acts of the Apostles 8:3) Convinced that following the teachings of Jesus was wrong, Paul pursued the early Christians …
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Paul: Religious Zeal
I advanced in Judaism beyond many among my people of the same age, for I was far more zealous for the traditions of my ancestors. (Galatians 1:14) A tent maker by trade, Paul's Jewish name was Saul. But because Paul …
Article
Taking Care of Myself: Prayer for Stress Relief
Reflection Sleep is a natural part of everyone's life, but many of us know little about how important it is. Sleep is something our bodies need to do; it is not an option. Sleep does indeed sustain us. Not only …
Article
Meeting Jesus at the Movies: Cinema Divina for Teachers
One of the most spiritually powerful essays I have ever read is "To Fall in Love with the World: Individualism and Self-Transcendence in American Life" by John M. Staudenmeier, S.J. (Institute of Jesuit Studies, May 1994). The author asks: "How …
Article
Nurturing Spirituality with Faculty and Staff
This vision paper presents stories and ideas of Catholic educators who care deeply about their faith, their vocation, and their school communities. It is a reflection on how staff spiritual development empowers the mission to teach as Jesus did. The …
Article
Blessed are the Media Makers . . .
Imagine if a teacher brought students to the school library and allowed them to read anything they wanted without ever asking a single question or demanding that students think critically about what they were reading. Preposterous! What teacher would ever …
Article
Program aims to get youth excited about Bible
Young people in the diocese are getting excited about Scripture and it's all part of a national effort called "Yes! Youth Engaging Scripture." YES is a Catholic teen-to-teen Bible sharing concept and to date, some 1,800 young people have been …
Article
Called to Create a Bible for Kids
Brian Singer-Towns may be on top of the Catholic bestseller list, but he wants to be very clear: He did not write the Bible. He merely edited it. Not that putting together a new version of the Bible is any …
Article
A Friend for Life
Editor's note: The names of the minors in this story have been changed to preserve confidentiality, in accordance with the wishes of Holy Cross Children's Services. DETROIT--When Tonya entered a youth detention home of the Holy Cross Children's Services …
Article
Highlights of Catholic Documents on Justice and Peace
Highlights of Catholic Documents on Justice and Peace The following link will take you to a PDF document that sumarizes many of the key points from Church documents addressing the social teachings of the Catholic Church. http://www.smp.org/Images/Complementary/Highlights.pdf
Article
Our Lady of Guadalupe: Icon of Justice
"Commitment to human life and dignity, to human rights and solidarity"; these are elements of what is commonly understood as social justice. In the Church today we have numerous "icons" we can look to in order to guide us in …
Article
National Bible Week: Dei Verbum
November 18, 2006 marked the forty-first anniversary of the approval of the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum), a Second Vatican Council document. Dei Verbum was mainly responsible for the explosion of Bible reading and Bible study by Catholics. …
Article
In Times of Crisis
Overview This prayer service provides an opportunity for prayer and communal support during times of crisis. It may be used when an unexpected death occurs, in the aftermath of a natural disaster (such as a hurricane, a fire, a tornado, …
Article
The First Address from Pope Benedict XVI
"Grace and peace in abundance to all of you! In my soul there are two contrasting sentiments in these hours. On the one hand, a sense of inadequacy and human turmoil for the responsibility entrusted to me yesterday as the …
Article
Biography of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, former prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, President of the Pontifical Biblical Commission and of the International Theological Commission, Dean of the College of Cardinals, was born on April 16, 1927 in Marktl …
Article
Where is now thy God? Reflections on Psalm 42:7-10
Where do we find God today? How are we to understand such happenings? Some might respond by saying that everything happens for a reason. I don't buy that. Some might respond by saying that it is all part of God's …
Article
National Bible Week: Daily Reading - A Gift to Me
A Gift to Me He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. (Mark 8:34) Throughout this Gospel, Mark shows …
Article
The Feast of Saint Cecilia
The Feast of Saint Cecilia "All their neighbors aided them with silver vessels, with gold, with goods,with animals, and with valuable gifts." (Ezra 1:6) Very little is known of Saint Cecilia. It is thought that she was martyred for her …
Article
November, National Child Safety Month: Preparing for safe and sacred places
Preparing for Safe and Sacred Places Some experts predict the presence of at least one abuser and one victim of abuse anytime there is a gathering focusing on this topic. Someone in your community might be experiencing abuse of some …
Article
November, National Child Safety Month: Preventing Abuse
Ongoing Prevention and Education Your community can do several things to inform, prevent, and respond to sexual abuse. The following are essential strategies you will want to incorporate into parish- or school-wide ministries: • All young people need to know …
Article
November, National Child Safety Month: Considerations in Ministry Planning
CONSIDERATIONS IN MINISTRY PLANNING All adults who work with children and or young people must be capable of exercising good judgment and wisdom in their ministry. We recommend that you consider the following questions when planning any activity involving children …
Article
National Bible Week: PRIMA Bible Study
THE PRIMA PROCESS Prima is the Latin word for first. In the PRIMA process, each letter of the word stands for a step in reading and studying the Bible individually or with a group. Using the PRIMA process helps you …
Article
Prayer: How Will You Know?
Reader 1: When do you decide how you will live? What goes into the thoughts that shape your dreams? Reader 2: For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, Reader 1: Do you know, at …
Article
Making Discernment a Way of Life
Use these suggestions to integrate discernment into your life. These ideas challenge the common misperception that vocation discernment is a one-time event. Explore and be open to options. Think, "My way may not be the only way." Be aware that …
Article
Resources for Parents Who Want to View The Passion of the Christ with Their Teenage Children
Things to Remember Film is an art form, and many genres and subgenres exist within film. Comedy is a genre. Within that genre one could name romantic comedies, slapstick comedies, and dark comedies as subgenres. Before reading a piece of …
Article
Who Does the Movie Say Killed Jesus?
Much of the controversy about The Passion of the Christ centers around one question: Who killed Jesus? The Anti-Defamation League feels the movie lays the blame at the feet of the Jews. Mel Gibson, the movie's director, producer and cowriter, …
Article
Artist Appreciation Month: Graphic Images of Christ's Passion in Art
Mel Gibson is not the first person to shock the public with a graphically violent portrayal of the Passion and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In 1515, Matthias Grunewald revealed an artwork called The Isenheim Altarpiece to the monks and churchgoers …
Article
Survival in Youth Ministry
In 1994 Saint Mary's Press published a book called Survival in Youth Ministry, by Robert J. McCarty, executive director of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry. As youth ministry continues to mature in the United States, we would like …
Article
February 14: Saint Valentine's Day
We love because he first loved us. (1 John 4:19) We celebrate loving and being loved on this special day. Of course most of us find it easier to love someone who loves us first, and that's what this verse …
Article
January 22: Reflection on Roe vs. Wade
I walked with George the other day, And this is what he had to say: "If this is what its come to, then I'm glad that I've passed on. For the foundation laid so long ago apparently is gone. What …
Article
Epiphany: Following the Star
Scripture Isaiah 60:1-6. Camels bringing gold and frankincense will follow the light. Ephesians 3:2-3,5-6. The Gentiles are heirs with the Jews. Matthew 2:1-12. Astrologers followed the star, found Jesus, and brought him gifts. Theme Isaiah foretold that nations would gather …
Article
The Twelve Virtues of a Good Teacher
THE TWELVE VIRTUES OF A GOOD TEACHER In 1706, John Baptist de La Salle, patron saint of teachers, listed twelve virtues of a good teacher in his Conduct of the Christian Schools. In 1785, Brother Agathon, the fifth superior general …
Article
Electing a New Pope
Choosing a new pope is somewhat of a mystery to people. In the early Church, a pope was elected not only by the bishops but also by the clergy and the laity. In later years, only the bishops took part …
Article
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pope
What is the pope? The pope is the bishop of the Church of Rome, Italy. Because of the importance of Rome, Tradition recognizes the pope as the supreme pastor of all Christians. Why is the Church of Rome so important? …
Article
Did you know? Interesting Facts to Share with Your Students About the Papacy
The term pope comes from the Greek work pappas, or the Latin word papa, both of which mean "father." The pope's official titles include bishop of Rome, vicar of Jesus Christ, successor of the prince of the Apostles, supreme pontiff …
Article
Biography of Pope Saint John Paul II
Saint John Paul II was born Karol Josef Wojtyla (Voy-tee-wah) on May 18, 1920, in Wadowice (Vah-do-vee-juh), Poland, a small city just outside Krakow. He was the third and youngest child of Karol Wojtyla Sr., a lieutenant in Poland's army, …
Article
Self-Esteem and Sexual Activity: The Difference Between the Sexes
The American Academy of Pediatrics recently found a major difference between boys with hgh self-esteem and girls with high self-esteem. Boys with a high self-esteem were more likely to have engaged in sexual intercourse than boys with low self-esteem. Conversely, …
Article
Unchurched Teens: Teens Who Don't Profess Church Affiliation Rises
According to a 2002 study the number of teens with no religious affiliation has risen by over 15 million young people since 1990. That is an average increase of over 1.15 million young people annually. When presented with such statistics, …
Article
The Offertory: The Lost Symbol in the Liturgy
When someone mentions the offertory, I often think about my weekly monetary contribution to my local parish. The venerable ushers march down the aisle with their wicker baskets, clumsily genuflect before the altar and begin weaving the baskets from left …
Article
Raising Up Leaders
I had a fascinating time with a group of young leaders. I was most struck by the diversity of the young people from a particular area. They came from single parent households, working-class families, and professional families. They were black …
Article
The Important of Process
I usually learn things the hard and long way. I have sponsored many prayer services, service projects and other such activities for teenagers. Prior to the event, I am usually consumed with details. Permission slips, transportation, food, and the schedule …
Article
The Liturgy: The Source of Catholic Identity
I love the old Latin axiom lex orandi, lex credendi. Roughly translated, this means that the law of prayer is the law of faith. More simply phrased, we pray what we believe. If you want to know what Catholics believe …
Article
Contemporary Music, Ageless Wisdom: Using the Language of Teens to Speak the Gospel
It is no secret that teens are absolutely immersed in music. The question for those ministering to youth is, "Should we make a stance against the kinds of music kids are listening to or should we use their music to …
Article
Sub Tuum Praesidium: The Most Ancient Marian Prayer
The oldest known prayer to Mary is the Sub Tuum Praesidium. It was discovered in Egypt on a fragment of papyrus. It is believed the prayer dates back to mid-late 200's A.D. The prayer follows: We fly to your patronage, …
Article
Month of the Rosary: Queen of the Rosary Prayer Service
Leader +In the name of the father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. All Amen Opening Song Leader Join us, Queen of the Rosary, as we offer praise to our Father All Join us, Queen of the …
Article
The Scandal of Love: The Unstoppable Passion of God
Saint Peter Chrysologus (406-450) was a man of passion. Often times, we look back at the saints and strip them of their power. They can become still pictures, of sorts. These pictures reveal beauty, yet they remain static. Such mental …
Article
Lectio Divina: Praying with the Scriptures
The Scriptures is one of the greatest riches possessed by Christians. Often attributed to Saint Jerome, there is the saying that "ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of God". However, Catholics are often less comfortable and deft with Scripture than Protestant …
Article
Right Here, Right Now
Holiness is an easy endeavor. At least the spiritual writer, Jean-Pierre de Caussade, believes that is the case. In his book Abandonment to Divine Providence, de Caussade urges his readers to live in the moment and do what is right. …
Article
Youth Prayer Habits
Through a grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc., the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill has established the National Study of Youth & Religion at the Odum Institute for Research and the Social Sciences. In there preliminary findings of existing …
Article
To Youth: Be Peacemakers, Be Builders of a Better World
VATICAN CITY, SEP 23, 2001 (VIS) - The Holy Father arrived at Eurasia University in Astana at 6:30 p.m. today and, following a tour of the campus, held a meeting with young people in the university’s Great Hall. About 8,500 …
Article
Papal Plea: Never Use Religion as a Reason for Conflict
VATICAN CITY, SEP 23, 2001 (VIS) - John Paul II traveled this morning from Astana’s apostolic nunciature to the Square of the Motherland, where at 10:30 a.m. he celebrated Mass with the ordinaries of Kazakhstan, guest bishops and priests working …
Article
Saint John Paul II: Statement on the Tragedy, 12 September 2001
I cannot begin this audience without expressing my profound sorrow at the terrorist attacks which yesterday brought death and destruction to America, causing thousands of victims and injuring countless people. To the President of the United States and to all …
Article
Let's Prove Them Wrong!
12 September 2001 As the truth unfolds behind who committed these horrendous terrorist attacks against the United States, I pray that we--as individuals and a country--will have the strength and courage to think deeply before we lash out in anger …
Article
A Letter to Young People from the President of Saint Mary’s Press
Dear young friends, The recent, tragic events continue to leave us all shocked, confused, scared, and sorrowful. At this time, nothing is more important than to turn our hearts to Jesus. Perhaps, we can find comfort in the words of …
Article
A Christian Response to Violence, Part 2:
Pacifism: "We No Longer Learn War" How can we apply Jesus’ command to love our enemies when our whole nation has been attacked? Over the centuries, how Christians have attempted to apply Jesus’ teachings on violence to their lives has …
Article
A Christian Response to Violence, Part 1:
In the wake of the 11 September terrorist attacks, many people are calling for military retaliation against whatever group or country is ultimately found to be responsible. The desire to strike back at those who hurt us is understandable, but …
Article
Why Is the World the Way It Is?
Why is the world the way it is? Why is it full of wrong? Why are her eyes so big? Why is his neck so long? Why is she so dark? Why am I so light? Why is she called …
Article
Worldwide Prayer
Overview This outdoor prayer exercise is based on the belief that prayer is effective and blessings can travel like ripples all the way around the world. The young people form four small groups as part of a wider circle that …
Article
When Tragedy Challenges Faith
When a Natural Disaster Strikes Natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, wildfires, and floods can challenge our trust and belief in God. We may ask: How could a loving God let bad things happen? How could God let us down …
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