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An Exodus Celebration of God's Power and Love
A joyful activity for elementary children to learn about and reenact the Israelites’ escape from Egypt and their songs of praise to God.
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Family Prayer before First Eucharist
These prayers will help your family focus more deeply on the celebration of First Eucharist that will take place soon. Through these prayers, you, your child, and your family will ask for guidance as you continue to grow as disciples …
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Friendship and Forgiveness Prayer Space
An activity, including a discussion and a craft, on forgiving friends and family members, based on The Catholic Children’s Bible featured story “Jesus Teaches Us to Forgive”, Matthew 18:21–35.
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A Modern Parable of the Prodigal Son
This skit presents the Parable of the Prodigal Son in four scenes, with parts for the Father, Younger son, Narrator, and Chorus.
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Treasures of Our Faith Bingo Card
A fun activity to help children recall important facts of our Catholic faith.
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First Reconciliation Meal Prayer
Make this simple prayer card for your family table. The prayer is especially appropriate as preparation for First Reconciliation.
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Family Prayer before First Reconciliation
These prayers are intended to help your family focus more deeply on the celebration of First Reconciliation that will take place soon. You and your child will pray for guidance as you continue to grow as disciples and continue your …
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2016 Lenten Prayer Calendar for The Catholic Youth Prayer Book, Second Edition
A prayer calendar for the 2016 Lenten season.
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Digging Deeper: An Extended Look at Mercy in the Gospel of Luke
A reading guide for the Gospel of Luke, selected from the Saint Mary's Press title, Walking with the Word (http://www.smp.org/product/3458/Walking-with-the-Word/). For more reflective reading on mercy in this Gospel, explore the pocket-sized Catholic Youth Bible: Gospel of Luke (http://www.smp.org/product/5042/The-Catholic-Youth-Bible/).
Saint Sebastian (d. late 200s)
Most of what we know about Saint Sebastian is according to legend, recorded as early as the year 350. Sebastian was born in Gaul in the third century AD, and raised in Milan, where his parents were from. He joined …
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CST 101 | Life and Dignity of the Human Person
Part of a collaborative video series presented by the USCCB and Catholic Relief Services on Catholic Social Teaching. Learn from Bishop Robert Barron, Jonathan Reyes, and Helen Alvaré as they discuss the dignity of the human person and our right …
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CST 101 | Care for God's Creation
Part of a collaborative video series presented by the USCCB and Catholic Relief Services on Catholic Social Teaching. Hear from Father James Martin, SJ, Dr. Carolyn Woo, and Cardinal Peter Turkson as they discuss Care for God's Creation.
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Jesus the Lord, by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits
The song/video "Jesus the Lord,” by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits," available on YouTube (6:24) with lyrics, is best used on day 4.
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You Are My King (Amazing Love)
The song/video “You Are My King (Amazing Love),” by Newsboys, available on YouTube (several versions), is a song praising God for the love he shows us through the Incarnation. It is appropriate for use on day 3.
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Chapter K: Let Your Voice Be Heard: Synod on Cyberbullying
Students are challenged to write a speech as if they were a member of Pope Francis’ synod addressing the problem of cyberbullying.
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Chapter J: Major Events in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries
Students order important events from the 19th and 20th centuries.
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Chapter I: Tough Questions
The worksheet poses several questions that ask students to reflect on how they would have stood up for their faith during the French and American Revolution.
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Chapter G: Design a Monastery
Students design a monastery based on the responsibilities and needs of the monks.
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Chapter F: Church Father Unscramble
Unscramble the names of the Church Fathers below. Then, under each unscrambled name, write one important contribution that the Church Father made to the Church.
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Chapter E: Early Christians Plant the Seeds
On this worksheet, students solve clues to list the names of important early Christians. These answers are then used to decode a secret message.
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Light of the World
The song/video "Light of the World," by Hillsong Kids, available on YouTube (3:51) with lyrics, is sung by grade schoolers. It is best used on day 4.
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Walk with Me
The song/video "Walk with Me," by Jesus Culture, available on YouTube (10:22) with lyrics, is simple and powerful. It is best used on day 3.
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Lord, You Have Come to the Seashore
The song/video "Lord, You Have Come to the Seashore," sung by Tim Lewis, is available on YouTube (4:03) with illustrated art and photos. It is best used on day 1.
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Pope Francis Joins Religious Leaders of Different Faiths, in Fight against Modern Slavery
The video "Pope Francis Joins Religious Leaders of Different Faiths, in Fight against Modern Slavery," by Rome Reports, available on YouTube (3:07), shows people of faith working together to eliminate one of the world’s greatest evils, slavery. It is best …
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Pope Francis in Action
The video "Pope Francis in Action," by Catholic News Service, available on YouTube (1:26), features the Pope at World Youth Day 2013. It is best used on day 3 or day 4.
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Pope Francis Speaks
The video "Pope Francis Speaks," by Catholic News Service, available on YouTube (9:27), is a video of the Pope’s remarks from the balcony of Saint Peter’s on the night of his election. It is best used on day 3.
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Pope Paul VI—The Pilgrim Pope
The video "Pope Paul VI—The Pilgrim Pope," by Salt and Light, available on YouTube (2:37), chronicles Pope Paul VI’s role in the Second Vatican Council, increasing Christian unity—including lifting the excommunication of the Greek Orthodox Patriarch—and bringing the Good News …
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Dwelling Place
The song/video "Dwelling Place," by John Foley and the Saint Louis Jesuits, available on YouTube (3:42) with lyrics and photos of parish liturgy, is best on day 4.
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Make Me a Channel of Your Peace
The song/video "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace," available on YouTube (3:39) with images, photos, and lyrics, is best used on day 3.
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Let There Be Peace on Earth—Sing Along
The song/video "Let There Be Peace on Earth—Sing Along," available on YouTube (2:41) with photos and lyrics, is best used on day 2.
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Open My Eyes
The song/video "Open My Eyes," by Jesse Manibusan, available on YouTube (2:54) with lyrics, is best used on day 1.
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St. Maximilian Kolbe—Martyr
The video "St. Maximilian Kolbe—Martyr," by The Story of Liberty, available on YouTube (4:52), presents this saint to the students in a way that brings his sacrifice to life. Best with Chapter Project.
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St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
The video "St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross," available on YouTube (7:13), is an engaging short film on the life of this saint. It would tie well to the "People of Faith" segment at the end of the chapter. It …
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Vaticanum Secundum (Opening of the Second Vatican Council)
The video "Vaticanum Secundum (Opening of the Second Vatican Council)," by Caeremoniale Romanum, available on YouTube (3:33), is the opening ceremony of Vatican Council II. The first of three videos. In Italian (no subtitles), but the pictures are worth a …
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The Catholic Church during World War II
The video "The Catholic Church during World War II," by heptagonofnerds, available on YouTube (2:47), is done by a teen and addresses the issue of the Catholic Church and the Jews. It presents realistically what Pope Pius XII and the …
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Catholic Social Teaching Movie
The video "Catholic Social Teaching Movie," available on YouTube (10:05), is an overview with music, photos, and quotes from various sources, of seven themes. It is best used on day 1.
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SJ Project 2012—Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers
The video "SJ Project 2012—Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers," available on YouTube (2:33), is a brief video that gives the students a modern look at the dignity of work and the rights of workers as told by …
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When the Saints Go Marchin’ In
The song/video "When the Saints Go Marchin’ In," by The Weavers, available on YouTube (2:39) with lyrics, is best used on day 4.
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God Bless America
The song/video "God Bless America," by the Barrington Breakfast Rotary, available on YouTube (2:24) with lyrics, is a rousing prayer. It is best used on day 3.
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Take, Lord, Receive
The song/video "Take, Lord, Receive," by John Foley and the Saint Louis Jesuits, in Memory of Fr. Bob Bedard C.C., available on YouTube (4:27), is best used on day 1.
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St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
The video "St. Rose Philippine Duchesne," by apostleshipofprayer, available on YouTube (2:00), introduces Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne. It is best used on day 4.
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St. John Neumann
The video "St. John Neumann," by apostleshipofprayer, available on YouTube (2:01), introduces Saint John Neumann. It is best used on day 4.
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Be Not Afraid—St. Louis Jesuits & Bob Dufford, S.J.
The song/video "Be Not Afraid—St. Louis Jesuits & Bob Dufford, S.J.," available on YouTube (4:36), is best used on day 4.
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A Mighty Fortress Is Our God—Haven of Rest Quartet (Acapella)
The song/video "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God—Haven of Rest Quartet (Acapella)," available on YouTube (2:46) with lyrics, is best used on day 2.
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Palestrina—Sicut cervus
The song/video "Palestrina—Sicut cervus," performed by the Cambridge Singers, available on YouTube (3:17) with lyrics, is best used on day 1.
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St. Francis Xavier
The video "St. Francis Xavier," by apostleshipofprayer, available on YouTube (2:00), documents the life, travels, and missionary spirit of Saint Francis Xavier. It is best used on day 4.
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St. Thomas More
The video "St. Thomas More," by catholicnewsagency, available on YouTube (2:01), shows the strong Catholic faith of Saint Thomas More and how he stood up to King Henry VIII instead of recognizing the Church of England. It is best used …
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Turning Points in History—The Reformation
The video "Turning Points in History—The Reformation," available on YouTube (2:28), is a good presentation of the conflict between Martin Luther and the Catholic Church. It is best used on day 2.
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Let My Prayer Arise—Orthodox Lent Chant in English
The song/video "Let My Prayer Arise—Orthodox Lent Chant in English," performed by the parish choir of Saint Philip Antiochian Orthodox Church in the USA, is available on YouTube (5:10) with lyrics and photos of Orthodox worship. This is chanted at …
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Gregorian Chant
The song/video "Gregorian Chant," performed by the Monastic Choir of the Abbey of St. Pierre de Solesmes, in 1930, is available on YouTube (45:19). The Abbey of Solesmes is a Benedictine monastery renowned for its teaching of chant. The first …
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Crusades
In the video "Crusades," by Mr. Corwin, available on YouTube (9:35), a middle-school history teacher explains it all, with good visuals. It is appropriate for use on day 3.
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Fall of the Roman Empire
The video "Fall of the Roman Empire," available on YouTube (12:44), is an entertaining crash course in Roman history. Two segments show the differences between the Eastern and Western Empires (begin at 5:06) and the Eastern and Western Churches (begin …
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The Nicene Creed in Original Greek
The video "The Nicene Creed in Original Greek," proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI and the Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I, is available on YouTube (2:28) with excellent photos of the two prelates, art, and icons. It is best used …
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Catholic History in Less than Five Minutes: (4) The Early Church Fathers
The video "Catholic History in Less than Five Minutes: (4) The Early Church Fathers," by Pat McNamara, is available on YouTube (4:47). It is best used on day 1.
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Christ Be Our Light
The song/video "Christ Be Our Light," by Bernadette Farrell, is available on YouTube (3:34) with lyrics and nature scenes. It is best on day 3 or day 4.
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This Little Light of Mine
The song/video "This Little Light of Mine," by Harry Dixon Loes (University of New Hampshire), is available on YouTube (2:34). It is best used for closing prayer on day 1.
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We Are the Light of the World
The song/video "We Are the Light of the World," by Jean A. Greif, available on YouTube (2:58) with lyrics, is the Beatitudes set to music. It is best used for opening prayer on day 1.
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Don’t Laugh at Me
The song/video "Don’t Laugh at Me," by Mark Wills, is available on YouTube (3:35), describes the pain of being bullied. It is used on day 1.
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Love Knows No End
The song/video "Love Knows No End," by Hillsong Live, available on YouTube (5:24) with lyrics, is best used on day 4 as a closing prayer.
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Forgiveness
The song/video "Forgiveness," by Matthew West, available on YouTube (4:26) with lyrics, is best on day 3
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Let It Go
The song/video "Let It Go," by Tenth Avenue North, available on YouTube (3:19) with lyrics, is best on day 2.
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Sermon on the Mount: The Lord’s Prayer
The video "Sermon on the Mount: The Lord’s Prayer," by LearnAboutTheBible, available on YouTube (2:18), is the English of the King James version. It is best used on day 1.
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The Lord’s Prayer
The song/video "The Lord’s Prayer," performed by Andrea Bocelli and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, available on YouTube (4:30), is an option for opening prayer on day 4.
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Abba Father—Acoustic Cover
The song/video "Abba Father—Acoustic Cover," by Carey Landry, available on YouTube (3:30), is best for opening prayer on day 3.
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Abba Father
The song/video "Abba Father," by Klaus Kuehn with Kari Jobe, available on YouTube (6:01), is best on day 3.
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Come Worship the Lord
The song/video "Come Worship the Lord," by John Michael Talbot, is available on YouTube (7:58). Point out that this song is based on Psalm 95. Commentary includes an explanation of the liturgy as a dance, with gestures. You may want …
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10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)
The song/video "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)," by Matt Redman, available on YouTube (4:22), encompasses the entire day in worship. This song/video may be used as the hymn with Midday Prayer on day 3.
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I Lift Up My Soul
The song/video "I Lift Up My Soul," by Tim Manion and the Saint Louis Jesuits, available on YouTube (3:00) with lyrics, shows views of Catholic liturgy and prayer as well as natural scenes. It is best used on days 1 …
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What Is the Difference between Meditation and Contemplation?
The video "What Is the Difference between Meditation and Contemplation?" by Spiritual Direction, is available on YouTube (4:03). A Catholic priest explains these two forms of prayer. It is best used on day 4.
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Stillness—Meditation, Prayer, Worship
The video "Stillness—Meditation, Prayer, Worship," by Emo Teofanov, is available on YouTube (1:06:40). The first few minutes outline the basics of contemplative prayer. The author then leads the viewer through a session of stillness and prayer. It is best used …
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Illumination—Peaceful Gregorian Chants—Dan Gibson’s Solitude
The video "Illumination—Peaceful Gregorian Chants—Dan Gibson’s Solitude" is available on YouTube (1:01:00). It is Latin chant. In some places, the Liturgy of the Hours is still chanted in Latin. In most places in the United States, Gregorian chant melodies are …
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Everyday God—Be with Us
The song/video "Everyday God—Be with Us," available on YouTube (4:54), is appropriate as an opening or closing prayer on any day. There are several videos of "Everyday God," by Bernadette Farrell, on YouTube. One, uploaded by Weng Daquilanea, uses slides …
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God Has Chosen Me
The song/video "God Has Chosen Me," by Bernadette Farrell, is available on YouTube (2:12). It is best used on day 1 or day 2.
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Lean on Me
The song/video "Lean on Me," by Zeal for Zion, available on YouTube (2:41) with lyrics, is a meditative prayer for times of trouble. It is best used on day 4.
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If God Be for Us
The song/video "If God Be for Us," by Zeal for Zion, available on YouTube (2:00), is based on Romans 8:31. It is best used on day 4.
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The Heartbeat of God
The song/video "The Heartbeat of God," by Zeal for Zion, available on YouTube (2:39) with lyrics, is appropriate as an opening or closing prayer for any day, but is best used on day 4.
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Jesus the Lord
The song/video "Jesus the Lord," by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits,” available on YouTube (6:24) with lyrics, is best used on day 4.
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Day by Day
The song/video "Day by Day," performed by the cast of Godspell, available on YouTube (3:27), is a musical setting of the Prayer of Saint Richard of Chichester. The students might like seeing the recording studio ambience. Appropriate for any day, …
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How to Start a Prayer Journal—#blbBibleStudy
The video "How to Start a Prayer Journal—#blbBibleStudy," by breelovesvlogs, available on YouTube (8:43), is a video by a college-age young woman that gives insight into starting a daily conversation with God in writing. It is best used on day …
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Top 40 Worship Songs—United States (by CCLI popularity)
The playlist "Top 40 Worship Songs—United States (by CCLI popularity)," by Stone Family Church-Home, available on YouTube with lyrics, is a compilation of forty songs/videos by various contemporary artists. It is useful as a reference for various prayerful songs on …
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Just Say Jesus
The song/video "Just Say Jesus," by 7eventh Time Down,” available on YouTube (2:41) with lyrics, is best used on day 4, perhaps as the opening or closing prayer.
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Holding Nothing Back
The song/video "Holding Nothing Back," by Ryan Stevenson, is available on YouTube (3:36) with lyrics. Mary holds nothing back from God. It is best used on day 2.
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Magnificat (with Wexford Carol)
The song/video "Magnificat (with Wexford Carol)," by Keith & Kristyn Getty,” available on YouTube (4:53) with lyrics, is a song based on the Magnificat. It is best used on day 2.
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Magnificat—Mary’s Song
The song/video "Magnificat—Mary’s Song," composed by Todd Agnew & performed by Christy Nockels, available on YouTube (5:08) with lyrics, is the Magnificat in contemporary language illustrated with scenes from nature. It is best used on day 2.
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Magnificat
The song/video "Magnificat," by John Michael Talbot, available on YouTube (5:53), includes a slideshow of Marian art. It is best used on day 2.
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As Morning Breaks (Ps. 63)
The song/video "As Morning Breaks (Ps. 63)," by John Michael Talbot, available on YouTube (4:07), is a good opening prayer/psalm for day 1.
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Jesus Urging His Disciples to Stay Awake
The video "Jesus Urging His Disciples to Stay Awake," by Turnback to God, available on YouTube (5:32), is an animated account of Jesus at prayer in Gethsemane (an amalgamation of Gospel accounts). It is best used on day 4.
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Suffer the Little Children to Come unto Me
The video "Suffer the Little Children to Come unto Me," by Mormon Channel, available on YouTube (2:41), shows Jesus blessing and healing little children. It is best used on day 3.
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Exercise Your Catechism
This handout guides students as they become familiar with searching for information in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
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Joy and Hope for the Modern World
This handout provides questions for students to reflect on and answer as they read quotations from this Constitution.
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Renaissance Humanism
This handout provides questions for students to research on the Internet about Renaissance Humanism.
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Encouragement in Persecution
This handout outlines a writing assignment in which students write a letter to an imaginary Roman friend who is enduring persecution in the Empire. Students must use Scripture passages to help them in the writing process.
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The Seven Petitions
On this handout, students match the meaning to each line of the Lord’s Prayer.
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A Prayer Puzzle
On this handout, students must use clues to unscramble words related to prayer.
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Spirit Telecom: The Universal Wireless Prayer Network
This handout guides students as they locate and read various Scripture passages focusing on the many way God calls us to prayer.
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Mercenary, Slave, or Disciple
Students identify their motivation for doing good deeds before reflecting on the role of grace in their lives.
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Grace upon Grace
Students look up and read several passages about grace. The worksheet asks students to identify the purpose of grace in each and summarize the ways grace is present in their own lives.
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The Spirit in Multiple Acts
Students look up and read several passages that the Holy Spirit. The worksheet asks students to summarize each passage and describe the role of the Holy Spirit in spreading the Good News.
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Okay, Gang, Listen Up!
Students look up and read several passages that highlight Jesus’ instructions to his disciples. This worksheet then challenges students to reflect on how well the Church is following the instructions today.
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Jesus’ Healings’ Common Points
Students look up and read several miracle stories from the New Testament before identifying common points between them.
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Although You Have Heard
Students rewrite classroom rules modeling their responses after Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.
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YES! We Do!
This handout helps provides the dialogue for the students to renew their baptismal promises as a class.
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A Little Help Here!
After reading several real-life examples of conflict, students provide suggestions to mediate each situation.
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Biblical Evidence for Jesus’ Divinity
Students look up, read, and examine Scripture passages that provide evidence that Jesus is God.
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Influential Women
Students look up, read, and answer questions about Scripture passages that note influential women in the New Testament.
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What about You?
After reading Mark 8:27-29, students must answer several questions about who Jesus is to today’s world and people.
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I’m in This Story?
Students must look up several Scripture passages that give insight into the disciples of Jesus. This worksheet poses questions that help make Jesus’ mission relatable to students.
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Popular Bible Stories
This handout provides a list of Scripture passage that can be used for games and to review well-known Bible stories.
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Do You Believe?
For this worksheet, students look up Scripture passages that examine the words and beliefs of Jesus in each story.
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Gifts of the Holy Spirit
The video "Gifts of the Holy Spirit," by Saint Mary’s Press, available on YouTube (0:51), offers a short, meditative reading on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and would make a good opening prayer for day 4.
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Skit Guys—Grace
The video "Skit Guys—Grace," available on YouTube (3:50), offers a powerful yet humorous description of grace through the eyes of Jesus and Peter. It is an option for day 1.
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Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)
The song/video "Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)," by Chris Tomlin, available on YouTube (4:29), teaches the greatness and power of grace all around us and provides a good opening song for any day this week. "
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Burning in My Soul
The song/video "Burning in My Soul," by Matt Maher, available on YouTube (3:45), provides a nice connection to Pentecost and the modern listener and is appropriate for use on day 4.
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Spirit of the Living God
The song/video "Spirit of the Living God," by Far from Home, available on YouTube (3:09) with lyrics, offers a nice opening prayer for day 2.
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Forever (Live)
The song/video "Forever (Live)," by Kari Jobe, available on YouTube (6:50) with lyrics, is a good opening prayer for day 4. The video can be shortened to 4:38.
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With Every Act of Love
The song/video "With Every Act of Love," by Jason Gray, available on YouTube (3:35) with lyrics, is used on day 3.
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Resurrection Cartoon
The video "Resurrection Cartoon," available on YouTube (3:05), offers a fun portrayal of the Resurrection and is appropriate for use on day 1.
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You Are God Alone
The song/video "You Are God Alone," by Phillips, Craig, and Dean, available on YouTube (4:01), is a good opening song for any day.
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Mighty to Save
The song/video "Mighty to Save," by Hillsong United, available on YouTube (7:06) with lyrics, is a good opening song for any day. The video can be stopped at 4:52 as time allows.
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Forgiveness (Live)
The song/video "Forgiveness (Live)," by Matthew West, available on YouTube (8:41), is a story told through words and music of the power of forgiveness and new life in Christ. It is appropriate for use on day 4.
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Isaiah 53
The song/video "Isaiah 53," by Sovereign Grace Music, available on YouTube (5:14), is appropriate for prayer on day 3. It can be shortened to 3:49.
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Lamb of God
This song is presented in the video "Lamb of God—Twila Paris," with images of the life of Jesus, available on YouTube (4:04) and is used on day 2.
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Lamb of God (Lyrics)
The song/video "Lamb of God," by Sarah Reeves, available on YouTube (3:22) with lyrics, is used on day 2.
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For The Cross
The song/video "For The Cross // Brian Johnson, Jenn Johnson, & Bethel Music // Tides Official Lyric Video," available on YouTube (5:37), provides a good opening prayer for any day. It can be shortened to 3:47.
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Seven Corporal Works of Mercy
The video "Seven Corporal Works of Mercy," available on ktd141’s channel on YouTube (3:17), shows the corporal works of mercy in action with a great song accompaniment. It is appropriate for opening or closing prayer on day 4.
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The Healing Has Begun
The song/video "The Healing Has Begun," by Matthew West, available on YouTube (3:52) with lyrics, is a song about opening up to the healing power of God. It is appropriate for opening prayer on day 3.
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The Kingdom of God
The song/video "The Kingdom of God," like many Taizé songs, is available on YouTube (4:15) and is a meditative chant that would work well as an introduction to chant and an opening prayer. It is appropriate for use on day …
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Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God
The song/video "Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God" (3:03) is a popular song about seeking the Kingdom of God. Many versions are available on YouTube. It is appropriate for prayer on any day.
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Lean on Me
The song "Lean on Me," by Bill Withers, available on YouTube (several versions), is a song about friendship. It is appropriate for use on day 4.
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The Angel Speaks to Mary
Several videos of the Annunciation are available on YouTube. Because the Annunciation is the announcement of the Incarnation, it would be appropriate to show one on day 1 or day 2. "The Angel Speaks to Mary," by TheLdsLife (4:08), is …
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The Hurt and the Healer
The song/video "The Hurt and the Healer," by Mercy Me, available on YouTube (4:48) with lyrics, provides a good opening prayer for day 3.
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I Will Follow
The song/video "I Will Follow," by Chris Tomlin, available on YouTube (3:43), provides a good opening prayer for day 4.
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Word of God Speak
The song/video "Word of God Speak," by Mercy Me, is a contemporary Christian song asking to hear the Word of God in order to share it with others. It is appropriate for opening or closing prayer on any day. Several …
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By Faith
The song/video "By Faith," by Keith and Kristyn Getty, available on YouTube (5:08) with lyrics, also provides a good opening prayer for any day. The song can be stopped at 3:08 if time is a consideration.
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The Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition - Church History Student Chapters
A full, downloadable version of The Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition, Church History Student Chapters.
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Consider the Lilies
The song/video "Consider the Lilies," performed by Sings Sampaguita, available on YouTube (3:59) can be used for opening prayer on day 2. In this version, the only visual is the performer, but the words are easier to understand.
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Mary's Role in the Catholic Church
The video "Mary’s Role in the Catholic Church," available on YouTube (3:52), is used in the "She Is Your Mother" activity on day 2.
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You Don't Know Jack . . . about the Assumption
The video "You Don’t Know Jack . . . about the Assumption," available on YouTube (4:51), offers an overview of the meaning, practice, and history of the Feast of the Assumption to supplement day 2.
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Mary, Did You Know? (The Bible)
The song/video "Mary, Did You Know? (The Bible)," by CeeLo Green, available on YouTube (4:12), incorporates video about the life of Mary and Jesus and is also appropriate for day 1.
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Mary, Did You Know?
The song/video "Mary, Did You Know?" by Pentatonix, available on YouTube (3:24) with lyrics, is an a cappella rendition that is appropriate for day 1.
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Mary in 2 Minutes
The video "Mary in 2 Minutes," available on YouTube (2:43), addresses many important questions regarding Mary to support day 1 activities.
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The Day of the Dead
The video "The Day of the Dead," available on YouTube (3:49), offers a good overview of the Mexican celebration for the "Day of the Dead" activity on day 4.
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Christ Is Risen
The song/video "Christ Is Risen," by Matt Maher, available on YouTube (4:55) with lyrics, can be used for prayer on day 1.
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I Will Rise
The song/video "I Will Rise," by Chris Tomlin, available on YouTube (5:02) with lyrics, is good for prayer any day this week.
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How Can Jesus Be Both God and Human?
The video "How Can Jesus Be Both God and Human?" available on YouTube (2:42). This short video by Bishop Robert Barron explains the two natures of Jesus and some of the false teachings that the early Christian communities were battling. …
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Fully Human, Fully God
The video "Fully Human, Fully God," by The Skit Guys, available on YouTube (14:37), is used for the "True God and True Man" activity on day 3. Cue to 12:00 for the pertinent 2:37 segment.
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Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes
The video "Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes," available on YouTube (2:08), is used for the "Happy Are You!" activity on day 2. The first 1:15 is sufficient.
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Blest Are They—The Beatitudes
The song/video "Blest Are They—The Beatitudes," available on YouTube (8:19), is used for the Engage activity on day 2. The segment between 6:01 and 6:50 focuses on the lesson’s topic of persecution. The first 6:50 is worth showing for context …
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The Monastic Life, an Opportunity for the Church
The video "The Monastic Life, an Opportunity for the Church," available on YouTube (2:55), provides background material on monastic life for day 3.
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Vocation Testimonial
A simple search of "vocation stories" on YouTube provides many possibilities. Preselect two or three videos based on your time limitations, student familiarity with certain orders, and potential interest. "The Story of a Voca-tion," posted by OrderofPreachers (3:33), and "Vocation …
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The Story of a Vocation
A simple search of "vocation stories" on YouTube provides many possibilities. Preselect two or three videos based on your time limitations, student familiarity with certain orders, and potential interest. "The Story of a Vocation," posted by OrderofPreachers (3:33), and "Vocation …
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Go Make a Difference
The song/video "Go Make a Difference Lyrics," by Steve Angrisano and Tom Tomaszek, available on YouTube (3:03), can serve as opening prayer any day.
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Hands and Feet
The song/video "Hands and Feet," by Audio Adrenaline, available on YouTube (4:04) with lyrics, enhances the Pray It! activity at the start of day 2.
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Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song)—The Nativity Story
The song/video "Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song)—The Nativity Story," by Amy Grant, available on YouTube (5:20), tells of the calling of Mary to bring Christ into the world. A video with scenes from the movie The Nativity Story illustrates the …
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Big House
The song/video "Big House," by Audio Adrenaline, available on YouTube (3:29) with lyrics, offers an alternate, more upbeat opening prayer for any day.
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One Spirit, One Church
The song/video "One Spirit, One Church," by Kevin Keil and Maryanne Quinlivan, available on YouTube (3:56), offers a good opening prayer for any day this week.
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1 Timothy 4:12— Seeds Family Worship—'Young'
The song/video "1 Timothy 4:12—Seeds Family Worship—‘Young,’" available on YouTube (2:05), is used for the "Be an Example" activity on day 4. The first 1:00 is sufficient.
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Heaven in the Real World
The song/video "Heaven in the Real World," by Steven Curtis Chapman, available on YouTube (4:20), is used for the "Gear Up" activity on day 3.
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Veggietales "Madame Blueberry"
The video "Veggie Tales Madame Blueberry," available on YouTube (1:27), is used for the Engage activity on day 2. Consider starting at the 0:24 mark.
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C4: Ignite Your Catholic Faith—What are the Marks of the Church?
The video "C4: Ignite Your Catholic Faith—What Are the Marks of the Church?" is available on YouTube (3:32), and is used for the "On Your Marks" activity on day 1.
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Run the Race
The song/video "Run the Race," by Paul Taylor Smith, available on YouTube (4:28), can be used for prayer any day and also complements the "Go the Distance" activity on day 4.
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Pope to Youth: 'Forget about false idols. Only God offers true hope'
The video "Pope to Youth: ‘Forget about false idols. Only God offers true hope,’" available on YouTube (3:10), is used for the "Think Positive!" activity on day 4. The pertinent quotes begin at the 0:56 mark.
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Trip Lee—Reflections on Romans 8
The video "Trip Lee—Reflections on Romans 8," available on YouTube (2:59), is used for the "Clear the Way" activity on day 4.
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Gospel Music by Shai Linne, 116 Clique (Romans)
The song/video "Gospel Music by Shai Linne, 116 Clique (Romans)," available on YouTube (4:55), is used for the “Clear the Way” activity on day 4. Though the video is 4:55, the song concludes at the 4:11 mark. It is helpful …
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Acts 15 The Council of Jerusalem
The video "Acts 15 The Council of Jerusalem," available on YouTube (3:52), is used for the "Paul Is Appalled" activity on day 2.
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R.E.M.—It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)—Disaster Movies Music Video
The song/video "It's the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)—Disaster Movies Music Video," by R.E.M., available on YouTube (4:03), is used for the "When Will Jesus Come?" activity on day 1.
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Inculturation: The Case of Matteo Ricci
The Catholic News Service video "Inculturation: The Case of Matteo Ricci," available on YouTube (2:21), provides a clear, concise explanation of enculturation for the chapter project.
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World Peace Prayer
The song/video "World Peace Prayer," by Marty Haugen, available on YouTube (4:06), provides a hopeful litany that complements the "Opposites" activity on day 4.
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Your Grace Is Enough
The song/video "Your Grace Is Enough," available on YouTube (4:30) with lyrics, is based on 2 Corinthians 12:9 and can accent the song for prayer on day 1.
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Skit Guys—Peter and John: The Tomb
The video "Skit Guys—Peter and John: The Tomb," available on YouTube (2:30), is used for "The Great Race" activity on day 4.
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I'll Race You to the Tomb
The song/video "I’ll Race You to the Tomb," available on YouTube (4:12), is used for the Pray It! activity on day 4.
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John's Gospel—The Wedding at Cana—John 2
The video "John’s Gospel— The Wedding at Cana—John 2," available on YouTube (3:02), is used for the "There’s Something about Mary" activity on day 3.
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Lazarus Raised
The video "Lazarus Raised," available on YouTube (4:33), is used for the “Raising Lazarus” activity on day 2.
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Jesus and Nicodemus
Short video illustrating the interaction between Nicodemus and Jesus (available on YouTube, 3:50) Used for the “Born Again” activity on day 1 for The New Testament and the Church Used in Chapter 5 of Live Jesus in Our Hearts: Jesus …
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Genesis 1—The Creation Story
The video "Genesis 1—The Creation Story" (illustrated with Minecraft) is an engaging visual for fans of the game and illustrates the day 1 “In the Beginning” activity.
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I Am The Way, the Truth, and the Life
The song/video "I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life," by John Hardwick, available on YouTube (1:34) with lyrics, can be used for prayer on any day this week.
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Holy Spirit, Come Now
The song/video "Holy Spirit Come Now," by Jesse Manibusan, available on YouTube (4:09), is appropriate for day 2.
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Jesus Heals Ten Lepers
The video "Jesus Heals Ten Lepers," available on YouTube (2:01), tells the day 4 core story in an engaging way, using Lego figures.
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The Prodigal
The video "The Prodigal," by The Skit Guys, available on YouTube (7:27), is an engaging retelling of the Lost Son story for the day 3 lesson.
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My Soul Rejoices
The song/video "My Soul Rejoices," available on YouTube (8:34), enhances the praying of the Magnificat on day 2. The performance begins at the 2:38 mark.
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I Want to Know You
The song/video "I Want to Know You - Jesus Culture w/Lyrics," available on YouTube (8:50), shows gratitude for the sacrificial, unconditional love of Christ and a desire to get to know him. It is a good supplement for day 4. …
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Thy Word
The song/video "Thy Word (with lyrics)," by Amy Grant, available on YouTube (3:13), provides a good focus for any prayer before classes focusing on Scripture.
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She Is Your Mother
As students complete this worksheet, they will explore what it means when we say that Mary is the Mother of God and the Mother of the Church.
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Priest, Prophet, and King
Students find examples in the Bible of the priestly, prophetic, and kingly work of Christ before applying it to their own lives.
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On Your Marks
This worksheet guides group members to work together as they identify the importance of the church being “One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic”.
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Cana Connections
Students match symbols from Jesus’ first miracle the wedding feast in Cana with their meaning and significance.
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The Lost Son
On this worksheet, students retell the story of the Prodigal Son using texting and social media messages.
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Gospel Comparisons
On this worksheet, students read all four Gospel accounts of the resurrection before identifying similarities and differences between them.
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Chapter E The Bible: The Catholic Letters
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Chapter D The Bible: The Later Letters of Paul
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Chapter C The Bible: The Early Letters of Paul
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Chapter B The Bible: The Gospel of John
This PowerPoint accompanies Chapter B by giving an overview of the Gospel of John.
