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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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Senses of Scripture and the Annunciation
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can analyze the story of the Annunciation through the literal, moral, spiritual, anagogical, and allegorical sense of interpretation.
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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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Mind Map
This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a handout for students to use the Mind Map format to brainstorm and explore relationships and associations between ideas and words.
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Learning About Learning
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. It asks students to reflect on their responses, likes, and dislikes to new learning methods.
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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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Pentecost
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can read the account of Pentecost in the Acts of the Apostles and answer questions about it.
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The Ascension of Jesus
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can read the account of Jesus' Ascension and answer questions about it.
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Gospel Basics: Comparing the Four
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. It helps students identify the differences between the four gospel accounts with reference to who, what, when and where each author was writing.
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Biblical Scavenger Hunt for Events in the Life of Jesus
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a biblical scavenger hunt through the New Testament in order to find various key events in the life and ministry of Jesus.
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Messianic Prophecies Worksheet
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series and goes along with the chart that contains information on the Old Testament prophecies which were fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Students can reflect on the Messianic Prophecies and answer questions.
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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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Ezekiel Symbolic Prophecy and Visions
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are asked to read parts of the Book of Ezekiel and write down how Ezekiel is asked to symbolically act out the prophetic message.
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The Inner Life of the Prophet Jeremiah
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can student learn more about the prophet Jeremiah by reading parts of his Old Testament book.
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Evaluating the Prophet Isaiah
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are given several passages from the Book of Isaiah and asked to describe the events described in the Bible.
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Kings and Prophets Worksheet
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students answer questions about the kings and prophets of the Old Testament.
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Kings and Prophets
This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a helpful, organized chronology of the Old Testament Kings, Prophets, and neighboring rulers.
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The Prophetic Checklist
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can learn key characteristics of the prophets of the Old Testament and look up Biblical citations to correspond.
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Preparation Worksheet for Prophet Research Assignment
This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can use these questions prepare for and consider several facets of a prophet that they plan to research mor extensively.
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The Role of a Judge in Ancient Israel
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can learn more about important judges from the Old Testament.
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Graph for Evaluating Leadership Qualities
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students and teachers can use this to evaluation leadership qualities in the classroom and compare those qualities with various Biblical characters.
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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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Leadership Statements
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. It includes several statesments about leadership in the Bible, including who's called, what skills are necessary, and what it takes to be a good leader.
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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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What Kind of Leader Is Moses?
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are asked to look up verses and make assessments about Moses' leadership in the Old Testament.
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Leadership Quotations
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers quotations from several historical leaders and asks students to reflect on various styles and characteristics of leadership.
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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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Leadership Scavenger Hunt
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are asked to fill out the characteristics and stories of various leaders in the Bible.
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Sprint Through Salvation History Scriptural Passages
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are asked to explore the Bible for key events in the Old and New Testaments in Salvation History.
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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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Why Is Salvation History Necessary
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are asked to reflect on episodes in the Book of Genesis and consider the necessity of Salvation History.
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Why Do We Study History
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are asked to reflect on important historical documents and consider the overall significance of studying history.
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Field of Dreams Reflection Questions
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. It serves as a follow up reflection on the movie, "The Field of Dreams," prompting students to think about the themes of inspiration, revelation, and vocation seen throughout the film.
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Biblical Exegesis Worksheet
This activity is related to the "Biblical Exegesis Chart" and is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students must fill in the remaining column to answer questions about the exegetical work of various methods of biblical criticism.
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Practicing Biblical Exegesis
With this worksheet, students can practice Biblical exegesis with certain well-known Bible verses.
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Biblical Scavenger Hunt
In this activity, students are asked to find various famous Old Testament stories and events by searching through Scripture.
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How to Find a Scriptural Reference
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a great introduction to looking up scripture references in the Bible, and getting used to finding important stories by book, chapter and verse.
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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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Jesus Is Tempted
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a helpful way to organize notes about Jesus' temptation in the desert - including what the temptation was, how he responded, and what students can learn from it.
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The Ministry of Jesus
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can study various moments in Jesus' ministry and the values he embodied.
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Jesus Walks the Talk
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. The grid helps students organize and answer different aspects of Jesus' life in the New Testament.
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Matrix Summary of Jesus' Teachings
This matrix is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers a convenient and helpful structure for students to take notes about Jesus' main teachings.
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Reflection on the Greatest Commandments
This worksheet is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can study and reflect on the Greatest Commandments: to love God with your whole mind, body and soul, and to love your neighbor as yourself.
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Core Elements of a Parable
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are assigned a parable and use this chart to discover the core elements of any of the parables that Jesus tells.
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Matthew's Sermon on the Mount
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can use this chart to write down questions, thoughts, or reactions to each section of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.
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Venn Diagram
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can use this handout to do a Venn Diagram of Gospel comparisons.
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Encountering Jesus: Writing Assignment
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. It gives two options for a writing assignment that uses scripture and the imagination.
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The Litany of Loreto
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. The Litany of Loreto, which is a devotional prayer through the intercession of Mary.
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Getting to Know Mary
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students must find various scripture passages regarding Mary and reflect on questions about her life and personality.
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Etymology and Understanding
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students define, associate, and find similaries among various words that a teacher or catechist assigns, in order to see the root and relationship between them.
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The Development of Catholic Trinitarian Theology
This handout is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can fill in the blanks to learn or review key concepts about the development of Trinitarian theology.
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The Nicene Creed and Commentary
This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It includes the word to the Nicene Creed and a commentary on key phrases and lines.
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Vocabulary Review
This review is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students may use it to review key theological terms.
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Interview Questions: Personal Relationship with Jesus
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are to interview an adult in their life whom they know that has a personal relationship with Jesus.
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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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The Holy Trinity
Student handout: Activity for an unnamed section of Cath Connections Handbook (pg 35-39 ish) word puzzle
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Prayerful Echoes
Class activity/method of prayer, like antiphonal prayer, grow appreciation for and familiarity with scriptural passages or familiar prayers
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A Place at Our Table
A class activity designed to raise awareness of the reality of hunger in our nation and world.
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Pass the Bag: A Biblical Affirmation Exercise
Class activity that familiarizes them with scriptural values, increases vocab, and ups self-esteem
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Directions for Game on! Games for Catholic Connections
Original directions to go with Game On! Cards. instructions for Baseball, Dodgeball, Identity, Jeopardy...
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Let Your Light Shine: An Overnight Retreat on Self-Esteem
This overnight retreat on self-esteem invites the young people to explore their own personal gifts and encourages them to share those abilities with others. The retreat emphasizes the light of Christ in our Life, the special people who bring us …
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I Am More Like. . .
Class strategy. Activity to help students articulate and share some of their personal characteristics and develop an appreciation for differences among 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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Giving Thanks for Special People: A Communication Activity for Thanksgiving
A thank-you card activity to give thanks for the special people in students' lives.
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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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Birthday Blessings
Similar to back to school blessing handout. Something you can do at home, "introduce God into your birthday celebrations at home"
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Back-to-School Blessing: A Prayer Service for the Beginning of the School Year
A resource/handout for teachers or catechists. Something fun to do on first day of class, or during the beginning of the new school year.
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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 …
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Play Ball
Preparation Gather the following items: * two foam balls or two beanbags * one copy of the resource A Communication Process(PDF) Secretly Ask a participant to help you with the activity. Explain that the second activity in this session is …
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Hourly Prayers for Ash Wednesday
Opening Prayer We begin this class as we begin all things: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Scripture Reading Working …
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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 …
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A Pauline Prayer Service
Leader. Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. With these words Saint Paul greeted the believers of his time, reminding them of the great gift they had been given in Jesus Christ. Almost two thousand …
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Exploring the Themes in Paul's Epistles
Background for the Catechist This session invites the participants to work in small groups to research some of Paul's major theological themes and create billboard representations to "sell" their assigned theme. In this way the young people get a deeper …
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Paul: A Unique Person
Background for the Teacher Saint Paul has fascinated Christians throughout history. The combination of his Jewish upbringing, his exposure to Greek culture, his fiery personality, and his openness to God's grace uniquely prepared him to spread the Gospel. This session …
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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 …
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Paul's Missionary Journeys
Preparation Gather the following items: pens or pencils copies of The Catholic Youth Bible® or another Bible, one for each participant maps of Paul's journeys (See maps 7 and 8 from the Study Aids section in the back of The …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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Leader's Guide for The Master's Companion: A Christian Midrash
Table of Contents Beyond Scripture Helpful Hints for Using and Creating Midrash with Young People Classroom Activities Chapter 1: The Small Black Dog with the White Foot (John 4:1-30)--compassion for animals Chapter 2: A Night in the Garden (John 4:39-45)--significance …
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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
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Leader's Guide for Coyote Meets Jesus
Stories are not just for young children. Everyone loves a good story and good storytelling is a useful tool for teaching. Using folktales as a teaching tool in a catechetical setting or a religion class can help teens understand the …
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Prayer Service for Families Coping with Traumatic Events
Gathering Come together as a family. Set aside time for reflection and discussion. Turn off the news for a few moments. Gather together in a circle. Join hands if you wish. Take a moment of silence. Someone may want to …
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When Hope Is Needed
Overview This prayer service is intended to bring hope during times of despair, consolation in times of suffering, and light in times of darkness. It may be used during difficult personal, family, or communal times. It is appropriate for various …
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A Prayer for His Holiness
Lord God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, We lift up in prayer Pope Francis, The successor of Peter, The Bishop of Rome, Our Holy Father, The Vicar of Christ on Earth. He has been called to lead your Church. Strengthen …
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A Prayer Service For A New Pope
Preparation - Prior to the beginning of prayer, you may select three young people to assist: a presider and two readers. - You will notice that the response to the Litany of the Saints is in both English and Latin. …
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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 …
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In Memory and Hope: A Prayer Service
Materials Needed incense charcoal brazier or some type of container to hold burning incense candles Music Suggestions "Be Not Afraid," Bob Dufford, Gather Comprehensive (Chicago: GIA Publications, 1994), no. 608. "Grant Us Peace, Lord," Tony Alonso, Fresh As The Morning …
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Advent: Let God be God . . .
----- Being in the wilderness reminds me to let God be God. When I'm at home In the day to day I forget Sometimes I try to make God mine To make God do things the way I think they …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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Peace Creed
Writing a Peace Creed (15 minutes) 1. Tell the young people that as much as we might want peace to become a reality in our world, being a peacemaker takes a lot of hard work. The first steps are to …
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Prayer by a High School Senior
Dear God, As I finish my senior year in high school, watch over me. Be with me as I go out in the real world to find myself. Give me the strength I need to stick with my education and …
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I Feel . . .
I feel most happy when the ground is breaking, the dark earth giving way to the warmth of a yellow sun. I feel most content when I breathe the cool air and it runs through my little green veins, giving …
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Disciple's Prayer
Scripture Reading: John 1:1-5 Presider: God of love, you provide us with light: from the moon and stars at night and the sun by day. By night and by day, your light brings life and makes things grow. It keeps the …
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Scripture Search and Discussion: Living by the Spirit of Jesus
(25 minutes) Before the session. Ask one of the participants to serve as a reader. Then, write each of the four following words or phrases on a separate sheet of paper. If your group is large, you might want to …
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Family Relationships
Scripture Passage Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"-- this is the first commandment with a promise: "so that it may be well with you and you may live long on …
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Assumption of Mary - Mary as a Disciple
Begin an exploration of Mary as the first disciple by explaining the word disciple, which means "follower, or one who believes in the teachings of a leader." Invite the students to examine the ways that Mary was a …
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For Love Is Stronger than Death
(20 minutes) Before the session have the all participants (including the facilitator) bring to the session a personal symbol. This symbol should be an object from among the participant's personal belongings that acts as a reminder of a much loved …
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Word-Association Exercise: Afterlife
(30 minutes) Prior to this exercise, have the all participants (including the facilitator) bring to the session a personal symbol. This symbol should be an object from among the participant's personal belongings that acts as a reminder of a much …
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Handout 1: The Walk to Emmaus
Characters: narrator, Jesus, Cleopas, second disciple Narrator: That very same day, two of the disciples were on their way to a village called Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were talking over all that had happened. Now as they …
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The Final Beginning: Ascension and Pentecost
Overview After Jesus' death, his followers were fearful, angry, grief-stricken, confused, and shattered. About fifty days later, at Pentecost, they were confident, joyful, determined, committed, and passionate. This topic of this session covers the time from the Resurrection until the …
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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 …
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Prayers for Reflecting on Christ's Passion
Before the Movie: Loving God, You sent your only Son to show us the way. As we recall and meditate on his crucifixion, help us to recognize the gift you place before us. On the cross Christ washed clean our …
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Praying with John Baptist de la Salle
In reaction to Martin Luther's emphasis on personal reading of the Bible, the Council of Trent discouraged laypeople from meditating on the word of God. Catholics were told to listen to the preaching of their priests, who would explain the …
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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, …
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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 …
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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 …
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Gethsemane - Prayer Service
(15 minutes) Before the session have your students do the Reflection Exercise: My Least Answerable Questions. If you do not plan on reading the Scripture passage (Mark 14:32-42) yourself, use the break time to ask a young person to read …
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Reflection Exercise: My Least Answerable Questions
(5 minutes) 1. Introduce this exercise by reiterating the idea that death is mystery and that since the beginning of time, people of all ages, cultures, and races have asked tough questions about death. Jesus himself struggled with such questions. …
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Talking Hands--Personal Attitudes Toward Death
(10 minutes) 1. Have the participants assemble and sit in a circle. Introduce this activity as Talking Hands. Explain to the participants the signals that they will need to use. Tell the young people that each time they hear a …
Article
Unbound!
OVERVIEW Praying for forgiveness sets us free. In this prayer the young people experience this message through a ritual of reconciliation. This strategy, which is ideal for a retreat or as a conclusion to a session on forgiveness, allows …
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Lenten Justice Crosses
OVERVIEW Through this hands-on project, the young people help spread the Lenten message of conversion to justice. They also become familiar with the message of the prophet Micah and the traditional spiritual disciplines of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Suggested Time: …
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The Power of Song
(25-35 minutes) Preparation Bring in a recording of an African American sacred song, or invite a local gospel choir or your school or parish choir to come in and perform such a song. A good resource for music is Lead …
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Lenten Nails: A Reflection Exercise for Lent
OVERVIEW This two-part reflection exercise allows the young teens to evaluate their behaviors and attitudes and admit their faults, throughout Lent. The exercise is introduced at the beginning of Lent and concludes before Easter. Suggested Time: Approximately 10 minutes for …
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Ashes to Reconciliation: A Reconciliation Prayer for Lent
OVERVIEW This prayer can be used during the first week of Lent or any time the sacrament of Reconciliation (also called the sacrament of Penance) is discussed or celebrated. Suggested Time: 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of …
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February 14: Valentine Puzzles
Preparation. Purchase or make a poster board heart, about 6 inches wide, for every four or five young people. Write on each heart a different scriptural verse that pertains to love. Include the citation. Here are some possible citations: Deut. …
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Presidents' Day
I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. (Genesis 12:2) These words from Genesis are the words spoken by God to Abraham, a …
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February 12: Abraham Lincoln's Birthday
Above all, my beloved, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your "Yes" be yes and your "No" be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation. (James 5:12) We …
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January 22: Saying Yes to Life
Preparation Bring in pictures of fetal development. 1. Present a scenario in which a girl like those in your group experiences a crisis pregnancy. Then list on the board a number of options, such as these: She can keep the …
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Soup or Bowl: A Game and Service Project for Super Bowl Sunday
OVERVIEW This combination game and service project is played in relay style by teams of young people with cans of soup that they bring as donations for the local food pantry. Suggested Time: A minimum of 10 minutes, or as …
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December 25: Reflection on Favorite Christmas Carols
Reflection on Favorite Christmas Carols Have the students, as a class, decide on their five favorite Christmas carols. To help them, take time to actually listen to Christmas carols in class. Doing this out of season will strike some students …
Article
Advent: Saint Joseph and Jesus
This can be easily adapted to a video call. 1. Gather the group in a circle for a moment of silence. Light the candle and read these passages about Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew (1:18-21 and 2:13-15). Ask the …
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Month of the Rosary: Our Lady of Perpetual Help
One of the most enduring Marian images is that of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. This familiar painting appears to be a single frame taken from a larger action. The image has the child Jesus in the arms of Mary; …
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December 12: The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
December 12: OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute. Speak out, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:8–9) In December 1531 Mary appeared to …
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Instruments of God's Grace
May this selection, from Let Us Remember: Stories of the Holy Presence of God encourage and inspire you in your good work!
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December 6: Feast of Saint Nicholas
December 6: SAINT NICHOLAS (FOURTH CENTURY) How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation. (Isaiah 52:7) Not much is known about Saint Nicholas except that he was …
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Advent Buddies
Advent Buddies: An Intergenerational Relationship-building Activity OVERVIEW This activity helps young people learn from an older person in the parish and establish a faith relationship with that person. Suggested Time: About 15 minutes for each meeting during Advent Group Size: …
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Must--Should--Can
Must--Should--Can Instructions: Check all the responsibilities you believe a pope must do in the MUST column, the responsibilities he should do in the SHOULD column, and the responsibilities he can do in the CAN column. # Responsibility MUST SHOULD CAN …
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The Liturgical Year
Learning Experience: The Liturgical Year (20 minutes) On a chalkboard or sheet of newsprint, draw six horizontal lines. Tell the group members that each line represents one of the Church seasons. Invite them to name the major seasons of the …
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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 …
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Build a Meal: An Outreach Activity for Thanksgiving
Build a Meal: An Outreach Activity for Thanksgiving OVERVIEW This outreach activity invites the young people to build holiday meals and memories for families that might not be able to afford a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Suggested Time: 10 to 15 …
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All Saints' Day: Unmasking Saints
Unmasking Saints: A Learning Activity for All Saints' Day OVERVIEW This creative activity helps young adolescents learn a little about their Catholic heritage by exploring the life and work of their patron saint or a favorite saint. Group Size: This …
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Prayer Service in Memory of Pope Saint John Paul II
Preparation For this prayer service you will need four candles, a presider, and two readers. The Summons to Prayer Presider: At the seventeenth World Youth Day, Pope John Paul II said to the young people: "When the light fades or …
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A New Rock
OVERVIEW This is a youth catechetical session intended to lead young people to an understanding of Pope John Paul II's life, ministry, general papal responsibilities, and the procedure for electing a new pontiff. It can be used in a …
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Mass to Commemorate and Celebrate the Life of Pope Saint John Paul II
In light of the Pope's passing, this Mass script offers an order of service with prayers, music suggestions, intercessions, and other materials that will make planning a meaningful celebration as simple as possible when time is limited. This Mass can …
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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 …
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A New Rock: Adaptations for Home Use
These activities are easily adapted for family members at home. When gathered for a meal, or for the specific purpose of these activities, family members can do one activity, a couple, or all of them, depending on the amount of time …
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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? …
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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 …
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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, …
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Back to School: Intentions for the Start of the School Year
Please respond "Lord hear our prayer" Let us pray for all Believers around the world and those who seek Christ, that they may receive blessings and open their hearts to God's word… We pray to the Lord For all experiencing …
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Back to School: Prayer for the Start of the School Year
Loving God, Our creator, our savior, our companion, bless this journey of a new school year that we undertake today. Refresh our souls and renew our spirits as we embrace the beautiful ministry you have called us to. We welcome …
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Back to School: Latin 101
Invite your class or each student to create a motto for the year in terms of positive faith growth over the course of the year. Your students are most likely familiar with the tradition of mottos or creeds in Latin. …
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Back to School: Saintly Guest Speaker
Saintly Guest Speaker? This activity is designed to have your students move around a little, look at the lives of a few saints, assess where they are in their spiritual lives, and help you assess how they are feeling about …
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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, …
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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, …
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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 …
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God's Work or My Work? What is Ministry to Teens?
It had been a very successful year for the youth ministry program in the parish. Young people where involved everywhere in the church, adult volunteers were both plentiful and dedicated, and young people were being transformed. But I was perplexed. …
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