If TIme Allows. Expression: Movement. time: 10 minutes materials: none. time: 20 minutes materials: drawing paper, crayons or markers

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1 The Garden 1 GraDe 2, Unit 1, session 1 Catechist Guide page 5 Faith Focus: God created the world to show how much he loves us. The Garden Children s Book page 235 After completing page 5 in the Children s Book, Ask: When you see the sun shining, trees and flowers blooming, or animals in nature, how do you feel? (Answers will vary.) What kinds of creation do you see in this artwork? (trees, birds, animals, fish, water, sun, clouds, plants) Say: God shows his love for us by creating the world where we live. Explain that God created everything out of love for us. Recognize that all creation is good. Thank God for his creation. Alba Corrado is an American artist, born in In 1971 The artist used velour and velvet to appliqué and machine-stitch this Alba made The Garden. The quilt is a quilt. There is much spiritual or religious celebration of life, creation, nature, and love. Alba earned a degree in painting from the Rhode Island School of Design symbolism seen in this quilt: a tree, representing long life and bearing new fruits; a serpent is thought to represent and in sculpture from the University Satan in disguise; and the fish and sun are of Illinois. Currently she is an adjunct early Christian symbols of Christ. In early professor in the Rhode Island School of Design in the Department of Sculpture. Christian mythology, peacocks represent life everlasting and Christ s Resurrection. The quilt is displayed in the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer of thanks to God for all he has created. After the prayer say: The next you see someone or something God has created, thank God for his wonderful gifts. Have children turn to page 235 in their books. Read aloud the introduction and discuss the questions. Read aloud the adapted Scripture story. Ask: How did God feel when he finished creating everything? (He felt pleased.) What did God ask Adam and Eve to do? (take good care of the earth) Say: When we receive a gift, we take good care of it. We take good care of the earth because it is a gift from God. Ask volunteers to read aloud Taking Care of God s Earth. Discuss the question. Have children work independently to write how they take care of the earth and what they see others do. Then have children meet in pairs to share their ideas. God s Creation 1 1 shows God s creatures of the air, land, and sea. How is God s creation a gift to us? How can we care for God s creation? God Made Heaven and Earth At first, there was only God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Creation Celebration Invite children to stand and imitate examples of God s creation portrayed in the. Children might rise like the sun, strut like a peacock, swim like a fish, or gallop like a horse. Afterward, have children talk about ways to show appreciation for God s gifts to us. Tell children to offer a silent prayer of thanks for God s gift of creation. : 10 minutes God made the world. He made the sky, the sun, and the moon. He made the sea. God filled it with different kinds of fish. He made the land. He filled it with many kinds of animals. Sky, Land, and Sea Describe examples of God s creation of sky, land, and sea seen in the. Have children fold drawing paper into three sections and write the title All That God Has Made Is Good across the top of the page. Tell children to label the three sections: sky, land, and sea. In each section have children draw examples of God s creation that they would like to add to the. Invite children to reflect upon their artwork. Then pray together: Thank you, God, for our beautiful world. Help us love and care for all creation. Then God said, Let us make someone special. So God made a man and a woman. He blessed them and told them to have children. He told them to take good care of the earth. : 20 minutes materials: drawing paper, crayons or markers God looked at everything he had made. God was pleased with all he had done. adapted from Genesis 1:1 31 Taking Care of God s Earth A Walk in God s Garden Have children study the. Say: Imagine that God has invited you into this garden. Ask children to use their senses as they walk through the garden, appreciating what they see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. Say: Take a moment to speak heart-to-heart with God and share with him the things you like most about all that he created. Close with a prayer of thanks to God and a promise to always love and care for his creation. : 5 minutes God created the sky, land, sea, and animals. Like the first man and woman, God wants us to take care of the earth. How do you show your family and friends that you take care of God s creation? Write one thing you do. Write one thing you see others do. Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Grade 2 Unit 1 Session 1 ~ pg 23 ~ 235 8/24/11 3:4 PM

2 Holy Family GraDe 2, Unit 1, session 2 Catechist Guide page 11 Holy Family Children s Book page 236 Say: Look closely at the artwork artwork. Ask: What do you think Jesus parents are thinking at the moment? Why do you think so? (Answers will vary.) Say: God s greatest gift to us is his Son, born into a special family here on the earth. Identify Jesus as God s most precious gift and our Savior. Share ways individuals are important parts of a family. Define Savior. After completing page 11 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: An angel told Joseph that Mary would be the Mother of Jesus. 2 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer of thanks to God for giving us his Son, Jesus. After the prayer say: Each day think about ways you can show your faith and love of God, just as the Holy Family did. The artist who La Sagrada Familia is painted the depiction of the Holy Family (La Sagrada Familia) is anonymous. During the 19th century, an artistic tradition consistent with the retablo tradition, which usually includes images of Christ, Mary, the Holy Family, the saints, and known as retablos flourished in Mexico. angels. The painting shows an earthly Retablos are oil paintings on small sheets representation of the Holy Family. God of tin or other inexpensive materials used on home altars to venerate the Holy Family or saints. Retablos were often the Holy Spirit is depicted as a dove, the symbol of purity and peace. Rays of light flow from the dove to the Holy Family. unsigned by the artist. New Mexico State University holds a collection of 1,700 of these religious images. 2 Have volunteers read aloud The Story of Joseph. Say: Joseph was Jesus foster father here on the earth. Ask: What are some ways fathers care for their children? (Answers will vary.) What are some ways that mothers care for their children? What do you think Joseph and Mary might have done to care for Jesus? (Answers will vary.) Family and Community Ask: Why did Joseph name the child Jesus? (an angel told him in a dream) Emphasize that Jesus means God saves or God saves us. Say: The name Jesus was chosen because Jesus is our Savior. Read aloud Families Are Special. Have children work independently to complete the activity. Invite children to sit in a circle and share their ideas. Have children turn to page 236 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Reading God's Word 2 shows a colorful picture of the Holy Family. What do you like to do with your family? Read aloud this feature. Say: These words tell us that Jesus loves us and promises to always be with us. Ask: How does this promise make you feel? (happy, joyful, safe) Then have children read the verse in unison with feeling and expression. The Story of Joseph Before Joseph and Mary were married, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream. The angel told Joseph that the baby that Mary was going to have would be from the Holy Spirit. Joseph did not understand. Then the angel said, Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. The angel told Joseph to name the child Jesus. The name Jesus means God saves or God saves us. Because Jesus saves us from our sins, he is our Savior. After Joseph woke up from his dream, he took Mary as his wife. adapted from Matthew 1:18 24 Families Are Special Like the Holy Family, every member of your family is important. This makes your family special. Write two ways that tell how your family is special. Litany of the Holy Family Explain that a litany is a prayer with a verse and response. Read the descriptive verse of the Holy Family below. Have children respond by crossing their hands over their hearts and praying, Pray for us. Joseph, foster father of Jesus Joseph, head of the Holy Family Mary, Mother of God Mary and Joseph, example for parents Jesus, our Savior Jesus, God s gift to us : 5 minutes Make a retablo Remind children that the is one artist s idea of what the Holy Family looks like. Have children paint their own version of the Holy Family. Remind them to sign their artwork. Then display and share ideas about children s artwork. After sharing, invite children to quietly reflect by writing a sentence that can be placed with their painting. : 25 minutes materials: art paper, paints, brushes, writing paper, pencils Reading God s Word I will be with you always, until the end of the world! adapted from Matthew 28: Grade 2 Unit 1 Session 2 ~ pg 236 ~ 8/24/11 3:4 PM

3 God created the earth... GraDe 2, Unit 1, session 3 Catechist Guide page 17 After completing page 17 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: Trust in God to care for us as he cares for all of creation. 3 God created the earth... Children s Book page 237 CD player Finding God Grade 2 CD 1, Track 1 Say: In this artwork we see a view of the earth from space. Ask: What makes our planet special? (water, people, animals, plants) If you could go into space and look down on earth, what would you see? How would you feel? (Answers will vary.) Say: God takes care of all of his creation, including us. Recognize and explain how God provides for his creation. Describe how Jesus wants us to know that God is our Father. Understand the importance of trusting in God. Elizabeth Wang was born in 1942 in Great Britain. She God created the earth and continues to care for it is a watercolor was received into the Catholic Church in She is an artist, a catechist, a wife, painting in the Radiant Light series. The painting glorifies God s creation, showing and a mother who spends painting, a fertile earth and the moon. Radiant writing, and speaking about prayer and Catholic faith. She has three grown children, one of whom is a Catholic priest. Light is a body of work that was made to express faith reflecting God, Heaven, Jesus and his Church, grace, conversion, God has taught Elizabeth through her prayer, and souls. It is Elizabeth Wang s prayers. These teachings are a gift and are response to an invitation to share the expressed in her work. message of Jesus love for us. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer of thanks to God for always caring for his creation and for us. After the prayer say: Each day think about ways you can show your appreciation to God, by doing your part to care for all of God s creation. Have children turn to page 237 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Have volunteers read aloud Trust in God. You may wish to play the recorded Scripture story Trust in God [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 1, Track 1]. Say: We can always trust God to love and care for us. Ask: What are some things God has created for us that show his love and care? (Possible answers: people to care for us, nature, food) Say: Just as God gives the plants and animals of the earth what they need to live, he will care for us too. Read aloud Resting in God s Hands Have children work independently to write how it might feel to be held lovingly in God s hands. 3 3 shows a playful view of the earth from space. How does God care for the earth and for us? Reading God's Word Read aloud this feature. Ask: What does Peter tell us to do in this letter? (trust in God) What does he tell us not to do? (worry) Remind children that God provides for us. Point out that he gives us his creation and people who love and care for us. Say: We can always trust in God s care for us. Trust in God Jesus wants us to know that God our Father is close to us. Jesus helps us learn to trust in God. Jesus said, Do not worry about your life. Do not worry about what you will eat or drink or what you will wear. Worrying will not add one minute to your life. See the birds that fly and the flowers that grow. The birds in the sky do not work. Yet God gives them the food they need to live. Be like the flowers that grow wild. They do not work. But God helps them grow strong. God provides for all of them. And he will provide for you. adapted from Matthew 6:25 34 Resting in God s Hands When you trust in God, you feel as if you are being held in his hands. Close your eyes. Imagine being held by God. How does it feel? Write your feelings. Creation Finger Play Read each line of the finger play. Have children repeat your actions. Then help children learn the words and perform the finger play together. God made the earth, so big and round. [Form a large circle with both arms.] He placed blue oceans all around. [Make wave motions.] On land, the trees reach for the sky. Branches stretch out way up high. [Stand straight, with arms up and fingers outstretched.] Look into the night sky. The moon looks down from way up high. [Shield the eyes and look up.] : 5 minutes Make God s Earth Have children use blue and green paper on a blue background to make an earth like the one in the. Tell children to draw and cut out pictures, such as of animals and plants, to represent God s creation. Ask children to include the following caption: God gives us the gift of his creation. Invite children to talk about their art. Conclude by praying a prayer of thanks to God. : 25 minutes materials: blue and green construction paper, magazines, crayons or markers, scissors, glue Reading God s Word Trust in the power of God. Place all your cares in his hands because he cares for you. adapted from 1 Peter 5:6 7 Grade 2 Unit 1 Session 3 ~ pg 23 ~ 237 8/24/11 3:4 PM

4 Behold Jesus GraDe 2, Unit 1, session 4 Catechist Guide page 23 Behold Jesus Children s Book page 238 Say: When you look at the artwork, imagine that Jesus is watching over our city. Ask: What would he see? Say: We call Jesus the Light of the World. His light shines all around us. Imagine the light of Christ shining on you. Ask: How do you feel? (Answers will vary.) Say: When we shine with the light of Christ, the Holy Spirit is working in us. Recognize Jesus as the light of the world. Describe how the Holy Spirit helps in decision-making. Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide us. After completing page 23 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: All good things we do and the good decisions we make come from the Holy Spirit. 4 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking Jesus to let his light shine in them. After the prayer say: Think about ways you can let the Holy Spirit work through you this week and guide you to shine with the light of Christ. The artist who painted Behold Jesus Come Quickly The medium used for Behold Jesus Come Quickly is painted steel. belongs to a group of artists known as the American School. The artists in this group The painting is classified as contemporary and modern American art. The contrast of painted during the 18th 20th centuries. The subject of their artwork most often included portraits, historical events, and darkness and light in land, air, and water landscapes. Here the artist depicts the New York City skyline with a large figure of Jesus overlooking the city. the water below. The wounds in Jesus hands suggest the resurrected Jesus. is striking. Rays of light shine forth from behind the figure of Jesus and reflect in Have children turn to page 238 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud the adapted Gospel story The Work of the Holy Spirit. Say: The Holy Spirit helps us do good deeds. When we choose to help others, we shine with the light of Christ. Ask: Where would you like to shine the light of Christ? (Answers will vary.) Tell children that the love they show others comes from the Holy Spirit. Say: The Holy Spirit helps us choose to do good. We can always ask the Holy Spirit to help us. Family and Community Ask volunteers to read aloud Shine a Light on Good Deeds. Have children work independently to write about good things done by them and for them through the Holy Spirit. Invite children to share their work. Reading God's Word 4 4 shows Jesus bringing light to a dark world. How can you bring the light of the Holy Spirit to those around you? The Work of the Holy Spirit We learn about the goodness of Jesus through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit works within us and helps us do good things. We should not hide the good things we do. When others see the good we do, we shine like a light to the world. Jesus said, You are the light of the world. You cannot hide a city on a hill. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket. The lamp is put on a lamp stand. There it can give light to everyone in the house. Let your light shine on everyone you know. This way they will see the good things you do. Then they will praise God, the Father, in heaven. adapted from Matthew 5:14 16 Shine a Light on Good Deeds When we do good things, we know the Holy Spirit is helping us. Write a good thing you have done for others. Write a good thing that someone has done for you. Expression: Music Light to the World Sing a song to celebrate the work of the Holy Spirit within us. Choose a song such as Jesus in the Morning [[Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 9] or the refrain of the popular song This Little Light of Mine. If available, invite children to play small musical instruments such as triangles or tambourines. : 5 minutes materials: CD player, song such as Jesus in the Morning [Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 9] Lanterns of Light Help children make lanterns. Have children fold yellow construction paper in half lengthwise. Starting from the fold, cut five slits, one inch apart, leaving a one-inch border at the top and a two-inch border at the base. Have children write on the slits ways the Holy Spirit shines through them, such as love, peace, joy, kindness, and patience. Curl the paper into a lantern shape and tape the long edges together. Have children add a paper or yarn handle. Display the lanterns. Ask children to pray a silent prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide and shine through them. : 25 minutes materials: yellow construction paper, crayons or markers, scissors, tape, yarn Reading God s Word You will be my light to the ends of the earth so that all people may be saved. adapted from Isaiah 49:6 238 Read aloud this feature. Say: When others see the Holy Spirit working through us, they will know something wonderful is happening. The Bible passage says that we can all be a light to the world. When we shine our light, we help other people learn about Jesus. Invite children to pray the Scripture in unison. Encourage them to take it to heart and pray it from memory throughout the week. Grade 2 Unit 1 Session 4 ~ pg 238 ~ 8/24/11 3:4 PM

5 Breaking Bread GraDe 2, Unit 1, session 5 Catechist Guide page 29 After completing page 29 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: The Church celebrates Ordinary Time. 5 Breaking Bread Children s Book page 239 Art supplies Ask: What does the artwork show? (prayerful people looking on as the bread is blessed and broken) What story of Jesus does this remind you of? (The Last Supper) Say: Jesus invites us to the table to break bread and be fed by him. Explain Ordinary Time as a to be fed by Jesus, the Bread of Life. Describe how we grow during Ordinary Time. Define chasuble. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to say a silent prayer accepting the invitation to know and love Jesus through the breaking of the bread. After the prayer say: Each we go to Mass together, we become more like Jesus in what we say and do. Julie Lonneman is a freelance artist and illustrator living Breaking Bread depicts God s faithful followers gathered around in Cincinnati. Since 1978 Lonneman has been an art director, a graphic designer, and an illustrator for the Church. Her the altar. At Mass children have witnessed the celebrant break the bread. The faithful pray for forgiveness and peace work is found on the covers of books and newsletters and appears in magazines. before receiving Holy Communion. In the breaking of the bread, we remember She is the author of Clip Art for Sundays and Jesus at the Last Supper. He took the bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to his disciples. Solemnities published in 2003 by Liturgy Training Publications. She completed an art library of over 250 images for Augsburg Fortress Press. Have children turn to page 239 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud We Celebrate Ordinary Time. Ask: How do we grow during Ordinary Time? (by learning more about Jesus and showing our love for Jesus and others) Say: Ordinary Time is for everyday living as followers of Jesus. It is the to grow. Have volunteers read aloud Mass in Ordinary Time. Remind children that the chasuble is worn by the priest celebrating Mass. Have children complete the work independently by coloring the chasuble green for Ordinary Time. 5 5 shows the breaking of the bread at Mass. What is your favorite part of the Mass? We Celebrate Ordinary Time During Ordinary Time we celebrate Jesus. We learn to listen to his message and follow his example. Green is the color of Ordinary Time. It is also the color of nature when everything grows. We grow in Ordinary Time also. We grow by learning more about Jesus. We grow by showing our love for Jesus and others. It is a good to reflect on all that is good and turn what we have learned into action. Mass in Ordinary Time When we go to Mass, we see the priest wearing a green chasuble. The chasuble is the outermost layer of a priest s vestments worn when celebrating Mass. Color this chasuble green as a symbol of Ordinary Time. Expression: Music Celebrate with Song Have children sing about Ordinary Time to the tune of If You re Happy. You may choose to add simple gestures or clapping. It is Ordinary Time in the Church. It is Ordinary Time in the Church. We celebrate the Lord. We learn to follow him. It is Ordinary Time in the Church. Learn more about Jesus day by day. Learn more about Jesus day by day. We grow in love of Jesus. He is our Bread of Life. Learn more about Jesus day by day. : 5 minutes Prayer Box Ask children to bring a small cardboard box, such as a tissue box, from home to decorate. After boxes are decorated, provide each child with at least four strips of colorful paper. Tell children to write a short prayer on each strip as a reminder to follow, celebrate, thank, and imitate Jesus in our actions and ways we treat others. Encourage children to keep the prayers in their boxes and choose to say one each day. Close with each child silently praying a prayer from the box. : 25 minutes materials: small boxes; decorations for the boxes: buttons, stickers, ribbon, sequins, glitter; construction paper, crayons or markers, precut colored strips of paper Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Let Us Break Bread Together Tell children to imagine they are celebrating Mass with other parishioners. Say: When you look up, you see Jesus standing at the altar holding the bread. Invite children to listen for anything Jesus might want to say to them. Say: Take a moment to speak heart-to-heart with Jesus and thank him for the gift of himself in the Eucharist. Lead children in a prayer of thanks to Jesus for inviting them to feel his love and peace every day. Grade 2 Unit 1 Session 5 : 3 minutes ~ pg 239 ~ 239 8/24/11 3:4 PM

6 Jesus Disputing GraDe 2, Unit 2, session 6 Catechist Guide page 35 After completing page 35 in the Children s Book, Ask: Look at this artwork. How old do you think Jesus is? (Twelve) Do you think he knew that his parents were looking for him? (No.) Say: Jesus obeyed God, his Father, and his parents on earth. Describe how Jesus obeyed God and his parents. Identify the Fourth Commandment as a guide to respect parents. Faith Focus: With God s help, we can follow the Fourth Commandment and obey our parents. 6 Jesus Disputing Children s Book page 240 Art supplies CD player Finding God Grade 2 CD 1, Track 2 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking Jesus for help to obey God and their parents. After the prayer say: Think about ways you can obey your parents this week. An anonymous artist A lithograph is an in England made the color lithograph Jesus Disputing With the Doctors during authorized copy of an original work. A printing process is used. The artist the 20th century. It depicts Jesus in the Temple with the teachers. It was during this period that a number of artists uses grease crayons or pencils to draw a mirrored image of artwork on a stone tablet or plate. Oil-base ink is applied created artworks that depict the life of Jesus, made popular earlier in the 18th and 19th centuries. In some portraits on the grease lines. Water is wiped on areas not to be printed. A sheet of paper is placed on the plate and into a press. A of Jesus, artists depicted Jesus in their own image. color print requires a step for each color. Have children turn to page 240 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud Jesus with the Teachers. You may wish to play the recorded Scripture story [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 1, Track 2]. Say: The and the Scripture story remind us to keep the Fourth Commandment, honor your mother and father. Ask: Why were Mary and Joseph so worried about Jesus? (They could not find him.) How did Jesus explain why he went to the Temple? (He was doing what God wanted him to do.) What did Jesus finally do? (returned home with Mary and Joseph) Say: Jesus gives us a good example. When we obey our parents, we obey God. Read aloud Lost and Found. Have children work independently to complete the activity. Invite children to share their ideas. 6 6 shows Jesus talking to the teachers. What do you talk about with your teachers? Jesus with the Teachers When Jesus was 12 years old, he went with his parents to a festival in Jerusalem. After the festival Mary and Joseph headed for home with their friends. Mary and Joseph thought Jesus was traveling with them. When they could not find him, they became very worried. Mary and Joseph returned to Jerusalem to look for Jesus. After three days they found him in the Temple. Jesus was sitting with the teachers, listening to them and asking questions. When his parents saw him, they were amazed. Mary asked, Son, why did you do this to us? We were very worried about you. adapted from Luke 2:41 52 Found Think of a you lost something special. Draw a picture of how you felt when it was lost and how you felt when it was found. I Listen Have children draw a picture of a they listened and obeyed their parents or an adult such as a teacher or grandparent. Encourage children to fill the entire paper with the scene. Ask them to include a sketch of themselves, the adult, and the event when they obeyed an adult just as Jesus did. Tell children to add a sentence describing the event. Invite children to display their artwork at home. Being There Tell children to imagine that they are in the Temple with Jesus. Say: Look around. What do you see and hear? Invite children to have a silent conversation with Jesus. Say: You can ask Jesus questions just like he asked the teachers in the Temple. Close with a prayer asking God to help children listen and obey their parents. : 3 minutes 240 Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Jesus returned home with Mary and Joseph. Mary remembered what happened. Jesus grew older and wiser. Lost : 20 minutes : 20 minutes materials: drawing paper, crayons or markers Jesus said, I must do what my Father wants me to do. His parents did not completely understand. Lost and Found Role-Play Have children work in pairs. Have one child play the role of the adult and the other the role of the child. Give the pair a situation to act out where one volunteers to do a good deed before being asked. For example, the adult can be a parent carrying groceries into the home. What should the child do? Adults can be a parent, a teacher, a neighbor, or a grandparent. After the activity say: Look for opportunities every day to show respect and do good deeds for others. Grade 2 Unit 2 Session 6 ~ pg 2 ~ 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

7 The Man Born Blind GraDe 2, Unit 2, session 7 Catechist Guide page 41 Faith Focus: Jesus is the model for the love and goodness in our lives. After completing page 41 in the Children s Book, 7 The Man Born Blind Children s Book page 241 Say: Artists somes show Jesus as a person from a specific country. In this artwork, Jesus looks like he might be from Africa. Ask: What do you notice in the picture that makes you think it depicts Africa? Why do you think this artwork is special to the people of Africa? If you were the artist, how would you show Jesus? (Answers will vary.) Say: The message of Jesus love is for all people in every part of the world. Identify ways to follow Jesus as a model of love and goodness. Describe ways Jesus shows his love for everyone. Define miracle. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking Jesus for his gift of love for all people. After the prayer say: Remember to pray for people you know as well as people around the world. In 1973 Mafa Christian communities in Cameroon wanted to have an African representation of the Gospel. The Man Born Blind is an African representation of the Gospel depicting Jesus healing a blind man. New Testament scenes were selected, adapted, and played by village people. Sketches were photographed and drawn. The artwork expresses the message, life, and person of Jesus in an African artistic manner. It is an expression of daily life and An unknown French artist, chosen for her fine perception of religious and African culture without betraying the historical Jesus. Jesus, the blind man, and the spirits, then executed the paintings. environment typify Northern Cameroon. An African Jesus portrays the universal meaning of God s message. 7 7 shows Jesus healing a blind man. People talked about Jesus miracles. What do you tell others about Jesus? Have children turn to page 241 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud the first paragraph of Jesus Heals. Ask: What does the show? (a blind man being healed by Jesus) Have children look in the Glossary for the meaning of the word miracle. Ask: What are some examples of Jesus miracles? (Jesus healed those who could not see and those who could not walk.) Read aloud the next two paragraphs. Say: John the Baptist was a holy man who taught about the Messiah. Ask: What does messiah mean? (anointed one, Savior) Why do you suppose John thought Jesus could be the Messiah? (Jesus healed others.) Discuss how the and Scripture passage show Jesus as Savior. Say: There are things we can do to be more like Jesus. We can help others who are in need or are in trouble. Read aloud Love Through Actions. Have children work independently to complete the activity. Invite each child to share one idea. After each idea is given have the group respond with: We help others to be more like Jesus. Reading God's Word Read aloud this feature. Ask: What did Jesus want John s followers to tell John? (The blind see, the sick get well, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor hear the good news.) Explain that when we reach out to those in need as Jesus did, we are being like him. Ask: What are some ways you can act like Jesus? (Answers will vary.) Jesus Heals Jesus helped many people who were in need. He gave sight to those who could not see. He healed people who could not walk. These are examples of Jesus miracles. At the same, there was a holy man named John the Baptist. He was teaching people about the coming of the Messiah. Some of John s followers told him about Jesus. So John sent them to ask Jesus, Are you the one we are waiting for, or should we keep looking? Jesus said to John s followers, Go and tell John what you have seen and heard. The blind see again. The sick get well. The deaf hear, and the dead are raised. The poor hear the good news that God loves them. adapted from Luke 7:18 22 Love Through Actions Think about ways you can be like Jesus by helping people. Write two things you can do to help others. Just Like Jesus Read aloud the prayer and demonstrate the actions for children to repeat. Jesus gave sight to those who could not see. [Point to the eyes.] Help me, Jesus, to be like you. [Fold hands in prayer.] Jesus healed those who could not walk. [Place hands on legs.] Help me, Jesus, to be like you. [Fold hands in prayer.] Jesus healed those who were sick. [Place a hand on the forehead.] Help me, Jesus, to be like you. [Fold hands in prayer.] : 5 minutes Reading God s Word The eyes of the blind and the ears of the deaf will be opened. adapted from Isaiah 35:5 Grade 2 Unit 2 Session 7 Get-Well Cards Have children fold construction paper in half to make a card. On the front have them draw a picture and write a cheery message inside. Tell children to address all messages to Dear Friend. Save the cards to send to children who miss class because of illness. : 30 minutes materials: construction paper, crayons or markers, pencils ~ pg 2 1 ~ 241 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

8 The Big Banquet GraDe 2, Unit 2, session 8 Catechist Guide page 47 The Big Banquet Children s Book page 242 Say: The artist shows this banquet in a Brazilian setting, the country from which he comes. Show Brazil on a map. Ask: How does the artwork remind you of a family dinner or big banquet that you have been invited to? How does it feel to receive an invitation to a party? (Answers will vary.) Say: God invites each of us to come and be close to him. Explain the meaning of the parable of the banquet. ways to accept Jesus invitation to follow him. Define parable. After completing page 47 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: Jesus calls us to the Kingdom of God. 8 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking Jesus for inviting us to be close to him at the banquet of the Mass. After the prayer say: Accept Jesus invitation this week to follow God and stay close to him. Little is known about the artist, José Pinto, other than that he is Brazilian. His work has been displayed The Big Banquet could be a representation of the parable of the banquet. The scene reflects a South in the Jacques Ardies Gallery in São Paulo, Brazil. This gallery is dedicated to American landscape. Brazilian culture is evident in the clothing the people promoting native Brazilian artists. wear, the typical foods they bring to the banquet, and the vibrant colors. There is a folk-art appeal in the scene. The painting is a reminder of the universal message of the Scriptures. Have children turn to page 242 in their books. Read aloud the introduction and discuss the questions. Have volunteers read aloud The Parable of the Banquet. Emphasize that a parable is a story that teaches a lesson. Ask: How do you think the man giving the dinner party felt when his guests made excuses about why they could not come? (sad, angry, disappointed) Do you remember the passage about Jesus helping people who were poor, sick, and blind? Who came to the banquet? (those who were poor, sick, blind, and lame) What do you think Jesus wants us to learn from this parable? (God wants to be close to everyone.) Read aloud God s Invitation. Have children work independently to complete the activity. Invite children to share their notes. 8 8 shows the parable of the banquet. How does God welcome everyone? How do we welcome others? The Parable of the Banquet Jesus often told a parable, or story, to teach an important lesson. This parable tells how everyone is invited to follow God. A man planned a dinner party and invited many people. On the day of the party, the man sent his servant to tell the guests, Come, everything is ready. One by one, the guests made excuses. One said, Sorry, but I must check the new land I bought. Another said, I must take care of the animals I bought. The servant reported to the master who got very angry. He said, Go into the town. Bring the poor and the sick, the blind and the lame. Even so, there was still room for more guests. The master said, Go out to the streets and highways. Have people come and fill my house. Expression: Music Friends All Gather Round Invite children to sing a song about gathering around the table, such as Friends All Gather Round [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 11] or sing the following song to the tune of Frère Jacques. What will you bring? What will you bring? To our feast? To our feast? Gather all around now. Seat yourself down now. Enjoy our feast. Enjoy our feast. : 5 minutes materials: CD player, song such as Friends All Gather Round [Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 11] A Dinner Invitation Ask children to make an invitation to a feast. Tell them to include information about when, where, and why the feast will be held. Suggest that they decorate the invitations in the style of the, making the feast look like one they would have in their location. Allow children to present their invitations to the class. Give positive feedback. : 25 minutes materials: construction paper, crayons or markers adapted from Luke 14:16 23 Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer At the Table Tell children to imagine that God invited them to a banquet. Say: What would you bring to share with the other guests? Invite children to speak with God heart-to-heart, telling him how it feels to gather at his table. Close with a prayer of thanks to God and a promise to accept his invitation to follow him. God s Invitation Write a note thanking God for his invitation to be close to him. : 5 minutes 242 Grade 2 Unit 2 Session 8 ~ pg 2 2 ~ 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

9 Christ the Shepherd GraDe 2, Unit 2, session 9 Catechist Guide page 53 After completing page 53 in the Children s Book, An unknown artist Christ the Shepherd Children s Book page 243 Art supplies Ask: How does seeing Jesus as a shepherd in the artwork remind you of how Jesus cares for us? (Answers will vary.) Talk about Jesus as a shepherd. Ask: How does a shepherd take care of his sheep? (feeds them, gives them water, protects them from wild animals) Say: We call Jesus the Good Shepherd. He cares for us even more than a shepherd cares for his sheep. Jesus helps us see the many ways God, our loving Father, cares for us. Identify Jesus as the Good Shepherd who cares for us. Explain the meaning of the parable of the lost sheep. Pray that we can be more like the Good Shepherd by caring for others. Faith Focus: As a shepherd cares for his flock, Jesus watches over us. 9 Paleo-Christian art includes carved the statue of Christ the Shepherd from ivory. The artwork is an example of architecture, paintings, and sculpture from early Christianity, particularly the art Paleo-Christian art, or primitive Christian of Italy and the western Mediterranean. art. Since records of artists were most likely not kept at the, very little is known about the artist or the purpose for Christ the Shepherd portrays Jesus as a young shepherd. The representation of Jesus as the Good Shepherd was a which it was commissioned. common theme in art. Early Christian sculptures carved in ivory exist in abundance. Statues found in catacombs are predominantly that of Jesus, represented as the Good Shepherd. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking God for sending Jesus to be close and guide us every day. After the prayer say: If you are bothered by something this week, turn to Jesus, who always cares. He is our shepherd. Have children turn to page 243 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud Jesus, Our Shepherd. Then have children read the page as a choral reading. Have one group read the lines for a shepherd and a second group read the lines for Jesus. Say: Tell one way Jesus cares for us. (Answers will vary.) Ask: How does Jesus lead us, feed us, and protect us in our daily lives? Why do you think a shepherd is a good way to describe Jesus? (As a shepherd cares for his flock, Jesus cares for us.) Read aloud The Good Shepherd. Have children work independently to draw a picture of Jesus as their shepherd. Invite children to share their drawings. Display portraits around the room. 9 9 shows a sculpture of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. How are you a good shepherd at home or school? Jesus, Our Shepherd A shepherd cares for his sheep. Jesus cares for us. A shepherd leads his flock. The sheep follow. Jesus leads us through his words and actions. We follow Jesus. A shepherd searches for any sheep that stray. Jesus will always help us come back to him. Shepherd Says Invite one child to act as a shepherd and the others the sheep. Have the shepherd lead the sheep through a variety of actions. Play instrumental music as children move, such as Jesus Hands Were Kind Hands [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 20]. To continue, pause the music and choose a new shepherd to lead the flock. Continue until each volunteer has a chance to be the shepherd. : 10 minutes materials: CD player, instrumental music such as Jesus Hands Were Kind Hands [Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 20] I Care Poster Invite children to make a poster with the caption I Can Be Like Jesus. Ask children to draw pictures or cut and glue magazine pictures to show ways they care for others. Suggest that children focus on actions that promote caring just as Jesus cares for us. Allow children to present their posters. Suggest that they display their posters in their homes. A shepherd feeds his flock. Jesus feeds us through the Eucharist. The Good Shepherd Draw a picture of Jesus as your shepherd. : 25 minutes materials: construction paper, crayons or markers, magazines, scissors, glue Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Talking to the Good Shepherd Tell children to imagine Jesus walking with the sheep on his shoulders. Ask: What might Jesus be thinking about as he walks? (Answers will vary.) Suggest the children join Jesus and walk with him. Say: Speak with Jesus heart-to-heart and ask him for any guidance you need at this. Then listen for whatever Jesus might want to share with you. Close with a prayer asking Jesus help to be like the Good Shepherd by caring for others in our lives. : 3 minutes Grade 2 Unit 2 Session 9 ~ pg 2 3 ~ 243 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

10 Advent Wreath GraDe 2, Unit 2, session 10 Catechist Guide page 59 Describe the use of the Advent wreath. Explain how we are reminded that Jesus is always there to light our way. Discuss ways to prepare for the coming of Jesus. John Rocky Dinser is Advent Wreath shows an a versatile artist. When he works as Rocky, Dinser often develops illustrations and paintings for children s books, greeting often displayed symbol of faith for the season of Advent. The greens represent hope and life as we wait hopefully for cards, gift items, and packaging. When he works as John Dinser, the artist develops Jesus, who brings us new life. The origin of the Advent wreath likely leads back fine art, illustrations, and paintings for to two sources. Pre-Christian Germanic individuals and organizations such as Capitol Records, The Grammy Awards, peoples used candlelit wreaths during dark winter days as a sign of hope for spring. In General Motors, and Ringling Brothers. Dinser has earned gold and silver Scandinavia, candles were placed around a wheel and prayers were offered to turn awards at the Society of Illustrators of the wheel of the earth back toward the Los Angeles. He currently lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan. sun to lengthen days and bring warmth. By the Middle Ages, Christians adapted these traditions and used Advent wreaths as part of their spiritual preparation for Christmas. 10 After completing page 59 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: Advent is a of preparing our hearts for the birth of Jesus. A R T P R I N T 10 Advent Wreath Children s Book page 244 Art supplies Say: This is an Advent wreath. You can see these in churches and homes during Advent. The green wreath is a circle with no beginning or end, just as God has no beginning or end. Ask: How many candles are in the wreath? (four) Say: Each candle represents one week of Advent. The purple candle reminds us to prepare ourselves for Jesus coming through prayer and good works. The pink candle symbolizes that our waiting will soon end. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking God to help prepare their hearts for the coming of Jesus at Christmas. After the prayer say: Let s talk more about lights and how we can light the way for Jesus coming during Advent. Have children turn to page 244 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Ask a volunteer to read aloud the first paragraph of Lighting the Way for Jesus. Invite children to describe Advent wreaths that they have seen or other beautiful displays of light during Advent. Ask a volunteer to read aloud the second paragraph. Say: Light is often used to describe warmth, goodness, and love. Ask: What can we do to make room for Jesus light in our hearts? (pray, do good deeds) Read aloud Making Room for Jesus Light. Discuss other ways children can make room for Jesus light in their hearts during Advent, such as read stories from the Bible, go to Mass, use an Advent wreath at home, or set up a Nativity scene. Have children work independently to complete the activity. 10 shows an Advent wreath. How does Jesus light our way? Lighting the Way for Jesus My Little Light Remind children that Jesus is our Light and that he shines brighter than the lights in church and our homes, and the stars in the sky. Tell children that they too can be bright lights in what they say and do. Have children sing a song such as This Little Light of Mine [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 21], a song about being like Jesus by shining in faith, word, and deed. Expression: Music Advent is a of waiting and getting ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Advent is also a of lights. We see lighted candles on the Advent wreath. Homes and trees are decorated with colorful lights. Lights remind us that Jesus lights our way to love and happiness. We can do many things to make room for Jesus light in our hearts. We can pray. We can do good deeds. We can enjoy family customs to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Making Room for Jesus Light Write a list of specific things you will do this Advent to make room for the light of Jesus. Then draw a picture that shows how you feel when the waiting is over and Christmas has come. Things I Can Do This Advent : 5 minutes materials: CD player, any adaptation of This Little Light of Mine, such as [Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 21] A Special Advent Wreath In the center of a paper plate, have children draw a picture of one way they will prepare for the birth of Jesus during Advent. Ask children to glue on silk green leaves to completely cover the plate rim. Have children cover four empty cardboard tubes with three purple and one pink sheets of construction paper and glue them to the paper plate to represent Advent wreath candles. Have children bring home their wreaths to share with their family. : 30 minutes materials: paper plates, toilet tissue tubes, glue, silk green leaves, purple and pink construction paper Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Getting Ready for Jesus Tell children to imagine they are at home preparing an Advent wreath for their dining room table. Ask: Who is working with you? What do you talk about? Give children to speak with Jesus heart-to-heart. Close with a prayer asking Jesus to help children be bright lights for others as he is for us. : 3 minutes 244 Grade 2 Unit 2 Session 10 ~ pg 2 ~ 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

11 Magnolia Tree GraDe 2, Unit 3, session 11 Catechist Guide page 65 Magnolia Tree Children s Book page 245 Say: Look closely at this artwork. Ask: What do you notice? (flowers, buds, gnarled trunk, cliff, grass, hills) What help do you think this tree needed to flower so beautifully? (sunshine, rain) Say: Just like a branch grows strong on a tree, we grow strong and happy when we stay close to Jesus. Explain the image of Jesus as the vine and we as the branches. Describe how the Holy Spirit helps us stay close to Jesus, our vine. Reflect on how the Holy Spirit helps us grow close to Jesus. After completing page 65 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: We bear fruit when we stay close to Jesus. A R T P R I N T 11 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer of gratitude for feeling close to God in nature. After the prayer say: Think of some ways to stay close to Jesus this week so that you will grow in his love. Liz Wright is a British The tree is an important artist who paints scenes inspired from her everyday life and travels. She is known for including fine detail in her artwork. symbol in almost every culture. A tree s branches reach to the sky and its roots are deep in the earth, uniting above and Wright s paintings have been reproduced as greeting cards and book, CD, and magazine covers. Magnolia Tree is one below. The tree represents life, hope, strength, and beauty. The tree is symbolic of the Creator. It is a powerful symbol of example of her many unique landscapes. growth. The tree is the only living thing that continuously grows. The image of the vine and branches appears many s in Scripture. 11 Have children turn to page 245 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Ask a volunteer to describe what a vine is. Say: A vine is a plant with a long, flexible stem that helps leaves and fruits grow. A vine is strong. Have volunteers read aloud Jesus Is the Vine. Ask: Why do you think Jesus calls himself a vine? (He gives us life and keeps us strong.) How is God like a vine grower? (He cares for us, helps us to grow in faith, and to lead good lives.) Ask: What things do all plants need to grow? (water, sunlight, soil, air) What do we need to grow in love of God and Jesus? (Possible answers: prayer, sacraments, Bible, good deeds) Read aloud Grow Like a Vine. Have children work independently to write two ways they can grow closer to God. 11 shows a beautiful flowering tree. What beautiful things are growing in you as you grow closer to God? Jesus Is the Vine Take a walk. Look at the branches on trees. The healthy branches are like people who live close to God. God helps us when we invite him into our lives. We can ask God to guide us. Reading God's Word Read aloud the feature. Say: Think of a you felt one of these Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Ask: Did you know that the Holy Spirit was working in you? Invite children to take a few moments to recall the feelings of joy and peace in their hearts. Say: The Holy Spirit helps us stay close to Jesus. When we stay close to Jesus, we bear the beautiful fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness. Magnolia Tree Recite the rhyme with the actions. Jesus said, I am the vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He helps the good branches become healthier. You are already healthy because you have listened to what I have said. On the hill grows a fine tree, What a pretty tree for all to see. [Stretch arms high.] Jesus continued, A branch cannot grow strong unless it stays on the vine. You cannot grow strong unless you stay close to me. Whoever stays close to me will grow strong. On each branch of that tree, Flowers grow for all to see. [Cup hands for flowers.] adapted from John 15:1 5 On each branch of that tree, Green leaves grow for all to see. [Stretch arms to the side.] Green grass grows around the tree, A special gift for you and me. [Spread arms to the side. Twirl.] : 5 minutes Grow Like a Vine Fruits of the Spirit Have children draw a tree in the style of the, leaving the branches bare. Tell children to label the tree trunk Jesus, and the branches Us. Have children add blossoms representing the Fruits of the Holy Spirit to the branches. Then have children refer to the verse in Reading God s Word and label the Fruits of the Holy Spirit love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness. Invite children to silently ask the Holy Spirit to continue acting in their lives. Write two ways you can grow closer to God. Reading God s Word The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness. adapted from Galatians 5:22 : 25 minutes materials: drawing paper, crayons or markers, pencils Grade 2 Unit 3 Session 11 ~ pg 2 5 ~ 245 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

12 Summoning Zacchaeus... GraDe 2, Unit 3, session 12 Catechist Guide page 71 After completing page 71 in the Children s Book, Summoning Zacchaeus Children s Book page 246 CD player Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 13 Say: Look at the man in the tree. Notice how he is in shadow and Jesus and his followers are in the light. Ask: Why do you think Jesus is in the light? (because he is God) Why do you think the man climbed the tree? (There were so many people he couldn t see.) Say: Jesus is always happy when we make efforts to be closer to him. Tell the story of Jesus forgiving Zacchaeus. Describe ways we can experience God s forgiveness. Reflect on the importance of forgiveness. Faith Focus: Jesus offers us love and forgiveness. A R T P R I N T 12 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer of thanks for the ways Jesus comes to meet us. After the prayer say: This week let s make efforts to see Jesus all around us. William Brassey Jesus Summoning Hole ( ) was an English painter and etcher. He is well known as an artist Zacchaeus... is one of 80 illustrations in the book The Life of Jesus of Nazareth that Have children turn to page 246 in their books. Read aloud the introduction who visited the Holy Land to gather references for his paintings. The details in the paintings reflect what the artist depicts Jesus life from the Annunciation to the Ascension, according to the Gospels. The works of art are captured observed in the places he visited in what in traditional Victorian style. Many have wondered how old Zacchaeus may have been when he encountered Jesus. While Read aloud the heading. Say: We will meet a man named Zacchaeus who grew closer to God with Jesus help. Read aloud the first paragraph. Say: Zacchaeus collected money for the government. Somes he took more money than he should. This made him rich, but he grew rich dishonestly. today is known as Israel. One of his most ambitious works is The Life of Jesus of Nazareth, which includes 80 pictures. his exact age is unknown, he was old enough to have acquired wealth, but young enough to climb a tree. 12 Read aloud the rest of the story. Ask: Why did the crowd become angry? (Jesus was going to the home of a sinner.) What did Zacchaeus decide to do after meeting Jesus? (give half of everything he had to the poor and return money to those he had cheated) What did Jesus tell Zacchaeus? (that he was saved that day) Read aloud Forgive One Another. Have children work independently to complete the activity. End with a music selection about forgiveness, such as A Man d Zacchaeus [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 13]. 12 shows Jesus talking with a man who is in a tree. What would you like to talk with Jesus about today? Reading God's Word Zacchaeus, the Rich Man Read aloud this feature. Have children perform the verse as a choral reading. Form three groups. Have each group read one sentence of the passage. Zacchaeus was a dishonest tax collector. He was very rich. One day he heard that Jesus was coming through town. Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus very much. But Jesus was walking in a big crowd, and Zacchaeus was not tall. He could not see over the crowd. Zacchaeus ran ahead and climbed up a tree. Jesus saw him and said, Zacchaeus, come down. I want to stay at your house today. This made Zacchaeus very happy. Zacchaeus Rhyme Demonstrate the actions for children to repeat. Then perform the rhyme together. Zaccheus had to climb a tree. [Mime climbing up.] For it was Jesus he longed to see. [Put hands at eyes like binoculars.] When Jesus asked him to come down, [Mime climbing down.] Zaccheus turned his life around. [Turn around.] He made peace with God, you see. [Shake hands with people on either side.] He walked in love through God s mercy. [Put hands on heart.] The people in the crowd became angry. They wondered why Jesus was going to the home of a sinner. Zacchaeus said to Jesus, I will give half of everything I have to the poor. I will give money back to anyone I have cheated. Jesus was pleased. He said that Zacchaeus was saved that day. adapted from Luke 19:2 9 Forgive One Another : 10 minutes Jesus forgave Zacchaeus. Write what forgiveness means to you. Forgiveness means Forgiving Hearts Provide red and yellow construction paper. On the yellow paper, have children write across the top: I forgive others. Others forgive me. Model how to fold the red paper in half and cut out a large heart. Have children glue the red heart onto the yellow paper under the caption. Invite children to draw a cross on the red heart each they forgive or are forgiven by others. Offer a silent prayer asking for God s help to offer forgiveness to others.. Reading God s Word Sell what you have and give to those who do not have much. Your treasure is with the Lord. No thief can steal that from you. adapted from Luke 12: Have a volunteer read aloud the next paragraph. Ask: Why do you think Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus? (He heard a lot about Jesus and wanted to meet him.) : 20 minutes materials: red and yellow construction paper, crayons or markers, scissors, glue Grade 2 Unit 3 Session 12 ~ pg 2 6 ~ 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

13 Faith and Healing GraDe 2, Unit 3, session 13 Catechist Guide page 77 After completing page 77 in the Children s Book, Faith and Healing Children s Book page 247 Art supplies CD player Finding God Grade 2 CD 1, Track 3 Say: Look at the title of the artwork. What do you think the words faith and healing mean? (Possible answers: believing in something without seeing it; to cure or make well again) Ask: What are the men doing? (lowering a man on a stretcher through a roof) Why do you think they are doing this? (Possible answer: to get help for him) Say: This picture illustrates a Bible story about faith and healing. We re going to hear the story, but first, let s think about the picture and pray. Retell the story of Jesus healing and forgiving the paralyzed man. Explain that Jesus heals and forgives us. Describe how it feels to be forgiven. Faith Focus: Faith in Jesus can bring healing and forgiveness. A R T P R I N T 13 Peter Church Art i facts Faith and Healing is a Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer to Jesus, asking for greater faith in him. After the prayer say: Think about your faith in Jesus as we close with the Sign of the Cross. has worked as an illustrator on two continents. Church first studied graphic design in England. In addition to a job commissioned artwork, developed especially for the Finding God series. The artist uses a painting medium called with a design studio, he branched out and began illustrating for a variety of gouache [GWAHSH]. Gouache is similar to watercolor, but it is heavier and more Have children turn to page 247 in their books. Read aloud the introduction magazines. In 1986 he moved to the United States and established himself as a freelance illustrator for many respected opaque. It is an easy medium to control on paper and is known for its brightness and intensity of colors. Because colors can publishing houses. Many of Church s designs are so rich in detail that they have been reproduced as jigsaw puzzles. be intermixed, artists can reach a desired hue. Its properties allow great results in technical and graphic illustrations. Read aloud the heading and ask children to follow along as you read the story. Or, if you have it available, you might wish to play the recorded Scripture story Jesus Heals [[Finding God Grade 2 CD 1, Track 3]. Say: The paralyzed man cannot see Jesus without the help of his friends. Ask: How do they help? (They carried their friend to Jesus and lowered him through the roof.) Have children tell what Jesus does for the man. Ask: Who are some people in your life that help you grow close to God? (family, friends, priests, catechists) Church continues his design work today while living in Massachusetts shows four friends lowering a man through the roof. How would you help a friend who wanted to see Jesus? Read aloud Friendship. Have children work independently to complete the activity. Friends Are Important Explain that it is good to have helpful friends, just as the paralyzed man had. Invite children to role-play the following situations that teach how to be a good friend. Jesus Heals Jesus was talking with some people in a house. The people crowded the rooms and blocked the doorways. Four men came carrying their friend who wanted to see Jesus. He was paralyzed and could not walk. The men climbed to the roof and made an opening. They lowered their friend to Jesus. A friend is worried about a sick pet. A friend broke an arm and needs help doing things. Your friend has to do chores before playing with you. Provide for planning and practice. After each performance, have children applaud. Jesus saw their faith. He said to the man who was paralyzed, Your sins are forgiven. Some people said, Only God can forgive sins! Jesus told the people that he had the power to forgive sins. He turned to the man who was paralyzed and said, Stand up and walk home. The man got up and walked away. The people were amazed. They knew that Jesus must be God. adapted from Mark 2:1 12 Friendship Draw a picture of a that you helped a friend. Write one word on the line below that describes how you felt afterward. Grade 2 Unit 3 Session 13 Family and Community : 10 minutes Helpful Hands Wreath Have each child trace one hand on a sheet of paper. Have children use watercolors to decorate the hand and cut out the shape when dry. Use black marker to label hands with children s names. Ask children to glue the hands onto a circle cut from poster board. Tie a yarn loop to display. : 20 minutes materials: drawing paper, watercolors, black markers, scissors, poster board circle, glue, yarn Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Witness Jesus Forgiveness Tell children to imagine that they saw Jesus perform this miracle. Invite children to speak heart-to-heart with God and tell him what they saw and how they feel about what Jesus has done. Close with a prayer asking God, through Jesus, to forgive us when we have hurt others. : 3 minutes ~ pg 2 ~ 247 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

14 Alma de Maria GraDe 2, Unit 3, session 14 Catechist Guide page 83 Alma de Maria Children s Book page 248 Art supplies Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork using Say: Look at the title of the artwork. alma de maria means mary s soul in Spanish. Ask: What do you notice about Mary? (She is holding flowers and has a crown of flowers on her head.) Say: We give flowers to special people we love. Ask: How do you know that Mary must have been a very special person? (God chose her to be the mother of Jesus.) Say: Let us follow Mary s example to love and obey God. Explain why we call Mary the Mother of the Church. Describe ways to follow the example of Mary in our lives. Pray to Mary to be open to God s grace, as she was. After completing page 83 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: Mary is the great example of what it means to say yes to God. A R T P R I N T 14 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking Mary s help to be close to her Son, Jesus. After the prayer say: Each you pray to Mary, know that she is always close to you. The Mexican artist Alma de Maria (Nuestra who painted Alma de Maria (Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación) is anonymous. The artwork is an example of the artistic Señora de la Encarnación) portrays the moment God sent the Holy Spirit to the Virgin Mary. Through his messenger, tradition known as retablos that flourished in Mexico during the 19th century. The artwork is most likely unsigned because the angel Gabriel, God announced to Mary that she would bear a son. Mary is often portrayed in an attitude of purity, the painting was done as an expression of faith and used for home worship. humility, and acceptance with her hands crossed. Other attributes include a crown of roses, to symbolize purity, and a white or pink gown with a blue cloak shows the Virgin Mary with flowers. If you could give Mary a gift, what would it be? Have children turn to page 248 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud Mother of the Church. Say: Mary has the special role of being Mother of the Church. Explain who makes up the Church. Say: We are the Church because we are baptized. Ask: How does God help us to be his children? (He gives us grace.) Ask volunteers to name things they can do to be more like Mary, our mother. List ideas on the board. Read aloud Special Women. Have children work independently to draw a picture of a special woman in their lives and write words to describe her. Reading God's Word Read aloud this feature. Ask: What are some of Mary s experiences that you think she remembered? (visit from the angel Gabriel telling her she would be the mother of Jesus, visiting Elizabeth, praising God in the Magnificat, the birth of Jesus, and finding Jesus in the Temple) Say: Take a moment to think of Mary and the experiences she kept in her heart. Mother of the Church Like Mary, the Church has a special relationship with God. The Church is made up of people who are called by God. The Church shows how much God loves the world. God loves everyone. Hail Mary, full of grace, [arms rounded and extended in front] Mary is the Mother of the Church. She received God s help to follow him. and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. [arms positioned as if holding an infant] God gives us the same help, or grace. Mary prays for us so that we will listen to God. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Hail Mary Recite the Hail Mary while children perform the actions. the Lord is with you. [raise arms over head] Blessed are you among women, [arms slowly come down to the waist] pray for us sinners [put arms down at sides with palms facing front] now and at the hour of our death. [Now [ : extend right arm; and at the hour: extend left arm] amen. [join hands in prayer position] Special Women : 10 minutes Mary is a special woman in our faith. Draw a picture of a special woman in your life. Write three words that describe her. Mary Artwork Remind children that Alma de Maria was painted by an artist in Mexico. Explain that different cultures picture Mary in their own way. Talk about what characteristics the Mexican artist includes. Have children think about how they picture Mary and draw their own version of the Mother of God. Display their artwork along with the. : 20 minutes materials: drawing paper, markers or crayons Reading God s Word Mary remembered all these things and kept them always in her heart. adapted from Luke 2: Grade 2 Unit 3 Session 14 ~ pg 2 8 ~ 8/2 /11 3: 8 PM

15 Nativity Scene GraDe 2, Unit 3, session 15 Catechist Guide page 89 Nativity Scene Children s Book page 249 Ask: What special day is shown in the? (Christmas) Whom do you see in the painting? (Mary, Joseph, Jesus, shepherds, angel) How do you feel when you see a Nativity scene? (Answers will vary.) Say: A Nativity scene reminds us of Jesus birth and how much God the Father loves us. Describe how we gather with our families at Christmas. Explain the meaning of the Nativity scene. Discuss Christmas as a for giving and sharing our talents. After completing page 89 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: The Church celebrates Christmas. A R T P R I N T 15 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking God for giving us the gift of Jesus. After the prayer say: Christmas is a to welcome Jesus into our hearts. George Adamson was Nativity Scene, was made born in the Bronx, New York, in He went to England and received art training at the Mining and Technical College using gouache [GWAHSH], a watercolor mixed with gum, on board. This artwork was originally produced for a Christmas in Wigan and the Liverpool College of Art. From 1940 to 1946 he served in the card for the Medici Society. The painting depicts Mary and Joseph with the Royal Air Force. In 1943 he was appointed newborn Jesus, the angel who announced as a war artist. He made cartoons and drawings for books, magazines, and Jesus coming to the shepherds, and two shepherds. newspapers. His paintings have appeared on Christmas and greeting cards, posters, 15 Ask a volunteer to read aloud the first paragraph of The Feast of Christmas. Ask: How do we celebrate and remember the importance of Christmas? (attend Mass, set up a Nativity scene in our homes or yards, send cards to family and friends) Say: When we do these things, we celebrate the mystery of Jesus birth. Have volunteers read aloud the next two paragraphs. Ask: How do you celebrate Christmas with your family? (Possible answers: attend Mass, open gifts, eat a special meal, visit relatives) Why do we give gifts to one another at Christmas? (to recall the special gift that God gave us in Jesus) Read aloud the last paragraph. Discuss what it means to be a gift. Say: God gave us talents that are meant to be shared. When we give someone the gift of ourselves, we are living as Jesus did. stationery, and record and CD covers. Have children turn to page 249 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud You Are a Gift. Have children work independently to write a list of talents they can share, such as reading to younger siblings, singing or playing a musical instrument, or sharing a positive attitude. 15 shows the manger scene in Bethlehem. Imagine yourself at the manger. Where would you like to be? The Feast of Christmas and Music Journey to Bethlehem Tell the story of the Nativity in your own words or read aloud Luke 2:1 20. Help children plan a reenactment of the journey. Have volunteers portray Mary and Joseph, the angel, a few innkeepers, and shepherds. Play or sing O Little Town of Bethlehem. Have children perform their reenactment. End with the second verse of the song. The feast of Christmas celebrates the mystery of Jesus birth. Christmas is a to celebrate with our families. It is a to share with friends. Families and friends gather in church to celebrate the birth of Jesus. : 5 minutes materials: CD player, music Christmas is also a for giving. God gave his only Son to us. When you look at a Nativity scene, remember God s greatest gift as you observe Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. Gifts from family and friends are given and unwrapped at Christmas. You are a gift as well. Unwrap your talents and share them with others for Christmas. A Special Christmas Card Tell children that the was originally designed to be a Christmas card. Have children design an original card to be given to parishioners who are homebound. Have children fold construction paper in half, decorate the card, and write a special Christmas message inside. Close with a silent prayer asking that all people be remembered on Jesus birthday. : 25 minutes materials: construction paper, markers or crayons Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Away in a Manger Have children imagine that they are one of the shepherds who has come to see the baby Jesus. Say: Notice the night sky and scene surrounding the manger. What do the angels say? Invite children to imagine themselves on the way to the manger. Say: What do you see when you arrive at the manger? How do you feel as you gaze upon Baby Jesus? Invite children to talk with the baby Jesus. Lead children in a prayer thanking God for sending us his only Son. You Are a Gift Write a list of talents you can unwrap for Christmas to share with others. : 5 minutes Grade 2 Unit 3 Session 15 ~ pg 2 ~ 249 8/2 /11 3: PM

16 Saint Peter GraDe 2, Unit 4, session 16 Catechist Guide page 95 Saint Peter Children s Book page 250 Print media Art supplies Ask: What do we already know about Saint Peter? What makes Saint Peter look like a pope in the artwork? (He holds the keys of Heaven and is wearing a pallium.) Say: Jesus called Peter to be the first leader of his Church. The Church continues to have leaders today who help us be close to God. Explain how Saint Peter was chosen to be the first leader of the Church. Describe how Saint Peter called people to be baptized. Pray for all leaders of the Church today. After completing page 95 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: Jesus chose Peter to be a leader who would help and serve the Church. A R T P R I N T 16 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking God for the leaders of today s Church. After the prayer say: Each you see a Church leader, ask God to bless this person in special way. Peter Paul Rubens, born in Germany in 1577, was raised Catholic by his mother. Known as a Flemish painter and diplomat, he received Saint Peter is remembered as the leader of the early Church. In the, Peter is depicted as the pope with the keys of Heaven and wearing a numerous commissions from Church, state, and nobility. Rubens became an advocate of the Catholic Counter- pallium. A pallium is a circular band, made of lamb s wool, worn around the neck Reformation painting style. He was also a master in landscapes and portraits. and one in back. It has six small crosses. A pallium is worn over a chasuble. Use of a Rubens was considered to be one of the most important Flemish painters of the 17th century. His style combined pallium is usually reserved for popes and archbishops. It symbolizes the supreme bold brushwork, luminous color, and shimmering light. his power by the archbishops on whom with two hanging pendants, one in front pastoral power of the pope or a share in the pope confers the pallium. Have children turn to page 250 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud the heading. Invite one child to be the narrator and a second child to be Peter. Have them read aloud Peter Speaks to the People. Ask: Why did Peter encourage the people to be baptized? (Their sins will be forgiven, and they will receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.) Read aloud Saint Peter Is a Leader. Ask: How do you think Saint Peter helped others become the best they could be? (Possible answers: baptized them, taught them, prayed with them) Brainstorm with children a list of current local, diocesan, and universal Church leaders. Write the list on the board. Read aloud the directions and have children complete the activity. Solidarity 16 Expression: Music Peter Is Our Rock Invite children to sing a song about Saint Peter. Sing lyrics to the tune of London Bridge Is Falling Down. 16 shows Saint Peter holding two keys. In what ways are you a leader? Peter Speaks to the People Jesus chose Peter to lead the Church. He wanted Peter to keep showing people how to be close to God. Peter said to the people, Change your lives and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then your sins will be forgiven. You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. adapted from Acts of the Apostles 2:38 Peter was chosen to lead the Church, lead the Church, lead the Church. Peter was chosen to lead the Church. Peter is our rock. Peter brought people close to God, close to God, close to God. Peter brought people close to God. Peter is our rock. : 5 minutes Saint Peter Is a Leader A leader is not the first or the greatest person. A leader is someone who serves others. A leader helps others become the best they can be. Cut out and glue pictures of leaders below. Look in newspapers or magazines. They can be school, Church, community, state, country, or world leaders. Say a prayer for them each day. Upon this Rock Paperweight Have each child bring a smooth, palmsized rock. Share the Scripture passage from Matthew 16:18: You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church. Invite children to paint rocks with symbols that remind them of the strength they receive through the Church. Have children take home their rocks as a reminder of Saint Peter. : 30 minutes materials: rocks, paint, paintbrushes Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Meet Saint Peter Have children imagine they are members of the early Church and that Peter is their leader. Say: Imagine Saint Peter standing before you. Notice what he s wearing and what he looks like. Invite children to have a silent conversation with Peter. Say: Share with Saint Peter how you participate at Mass and what you like about your parish. Close with a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide all the leaders of the Church today. : 3 minutes 250 Grade 2 Unit 4 Session 16 i_fg_te_g2z_ap-redux.indd ~ pg 250 ~ 8/24/11 3:49 PM

17 Open Your Heart GraDe 2, Unit 4, session 17 Catechist Guide page 101 Faith Focus: Celebrating the Eucharist calls us to serve others. Explain that when hospitality is shown, we welcome Jesus into our lives. Describe Mass as an important way we remember Jesus. Define ministry. Open Your Heart Children s Book page 251 After completing page 101 in the Children s Book, A R T P R I N T 17 Ask: Where do you think the people are going? (to church) Say: Everyone is welcome at Mass. Attending Mass is a special way of staying close to Jesus and the members of the Church. Ask: What makes you feel close to Jesus and others at Mass? (Possible answers: singing and praying together, greeting others, receiving Holy Communion) Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking God for our Church family. After the prayer say: When we serve others in our parish community, we show our love for the family of God. Susan Tolonen began Susan s artwork, Open Your her passion for drawing at age four. She Heart, was commissioned for an editorial was educated at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, studying illustration purpose the cover of a catechist guide for God s Gift: Reconciliation and Eucharist, and fine art. Today she is a guest instructor there. Using pastels, gouache (a watercolor mixed with gum), and acrylics a sacramental preparation program published by Loyola Press. The scene shows people on their way to church. The people while playing with light, color, and design, Tolonen makes childlike, whimsical, come from every direction. The scene depicts a welcoming community who will ethereal moods in her pieces. She has many national clients in both business and literary fields. join together to praise God. The bright colors used to illustrate the people and the textured hills that lead to the country church portray the same warmth that a parish feels when worshiping together. 17 Family and Community Have children turn to page 251 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Have volunteers read aloud the first paragraph of We Are Members of the Church. Say: Being a member of the Church means giving and talent to serve the community God created. This service done for others is called ministry. Discuss ways adults share and talent in the parish, such as being a catechist, a choir member, a lector, or an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. Say: Ministry extends outside church when we visit or transport those who are elderly, help to stock a food bank, or serve meals to people who are homeless. Ask: What are some ways that children your age can be involved in ministry in your parish? (Possible answers: donate food or clothing to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, sing in the children s choir, collect money for special causes) Read aloud the second paragraph and have children complete the activity. Solidarity 17 shows adults and children walking to a country church. How do you get ready to go to Mass? We Are Members of the Church Followers of Jesus make others feel welcome inside of church. When you go to Mass, you gather with others to worship. When you leave, your work is not done. You continue the work of Jesus. People who worship in a parish also give their and talents to serve others. This is called a ministry. Ministry is service or work done for others. List what you do inside church as a follower of Jesus. Then list what you do outside of church. Write your ideas in the chart. In Church Outside of Church Link to Liturgy After reading aloud this feature. Say: Here is an example of one kind of ministry. Ask: What do ministers of hospitality do? (welcome people to Mass) Does your parish have ministers of hospitality? What do these people say to you and your family? (Answers will vary.) Welcoming Role-Play Have children form four groups. Give each group a setting: church, lunch, recess, and after school. Have children plan role-play situations featuring new children being welcomed by others. Have children present their skits. After each performance lead children in a round of applause. Say: These skits give us some ideas for ways we can help others feel welcome everyday. : 20 minutes Link to Liturgy Many churches have ministers of hospitality who welcome people to the parish church for Mass. Hospitality Cross Ask: What does a minister of hospitality do? (welcomes others to church for Mass) Invite children to make hospitality crosses to represent this ministry. Demonstrate how to make the cross. Glue together two craft sticks to make a cross. Write HOSPITALITY on the vertical stick. Then write JE US on the horizontal stick, using the letter S from HOSPITALITY to connect the two words. Have children use glitter to decorate. Assist children to glue a safety pin to the back of their crosses. Arrange for children to serve as ministers of hospitality at an upcoming Mass and wear their pins. : minutes materials: large craft sticks, glue, markers, glitter, safety pins Grade 2 Unit 4 Session 17 i_fg_te_g2z_ap-redux.indd ~ pg 251 ~ 251 8/24/11 3:49 PM

18 The Four Evangelists GraDe 2, Unit 4, session 18 Catechist Guide page 107 After completing page 107 in the Children s Book, The Four Evangelists Children s Book page 252 Ask: What do you notice about this artwork? (Each of the four symbols holds a book, each has wings, there s a cross in the center with a lamb in the middle.) Each symbol stands for one of the Gospel writers. Can you name them? Say: The four Gospel writers are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, is in the center. Open a Bible to the New Testament and point out the Gospels. Explain that the Gospel is part of the Liturgy of the Word. Identify the number of Gospels and who wrote them. Define Evangelists. Faith Focus: When we gather for Mass we hear the Word of God. A R T P R I N T 18 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking God for help to be open to his Word in the Bible. After the prayer say: When we listen to the readings at Mass, we open our hearts and minds to the Word of God. An unknown artist The plaque depicts symbols carved the exquisite ivory plaque. The artwork is from the South Italian of the four Gospel writers around the Lamb of God, a symbol of Christ. Symbols region, possibly made in Benevento. include: Matthew, a winged man; Mark, a Originally the plaque was made to cover a deluxe binding of a Gospel book. This anonymous artist may have created the winged lion; Luke, a winged ox; and John, an eagle. The symbols are based on Saint John s vision in Revelation 4:7. The first artwork for personal use, may have been creature resembled a lion, the second was skilled yet unemployed and supported like a calf, the third had a face like that of a human being, and the fourth looked like an by a benefactor, or may have been eagle in flight. commissioned by another, so credit was not given. 18 Have children turn to page 252 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Ask a volunteer to read aloud the first paragraph of The Four Gospels. Say: During the Liturgy of the Word we listen to Bible readings. The readings teach us how to live as baptized Catholics. Read aloud the next two paragraphs. Say: The Gospels are special books of the Bible because they tell about the life of Jesus. Ask: What do we call the four Gospel writers? (Evangelists) Have children name each of the four Evangelists and his symbol. Say: These symbols are often seen in Christian artwork and in churches. They tell us something about each Evangelist and his message. Read aloud Symbol Match. Have children work independently to match each symbol with its meaning. You may want to refer again to Artifacts. Invite volunteers to share their answers. 18 shows a plaque with symbols of the four Gospel writers. If you were a Gospel writer, what would you write about Jesus? The Four Gospels At Mass we listen to God s Word in the Bible. When it is for the Liturgy of the Word, what do you see and hear? The priest or deacon reads from the Lectionary for Mass. He reads a story about Jesus life from one of the four Gospels. It is one part of the Liturgy of the Word. The Gospels are from a part of the Bible called the New Testament. The Gospel writers are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. They are called Evangelists. The Evangelists are often shown as symbols. Matthew is a winged man. Mark is a winged lion. Luke is a winged ox. John is an eagle. the Evangelist Arrange children into four groups. Tell each group that they will represent one of the four Evangelists, based on the symbol of that Gospel writer. Privately assign a writer and symbol to each group. Have small groups pantomime for the class, who tries to guess the Evangelist. Then say: The Gospels contain God s special messages for us to learn and live by. Listen for them each you attend Mass. : 10 minutes My Own Symbol Invite children to draw a symbol that represents them, such as the ones for Jesus and the Evangelists. Encourage children to share their symbols and explain their choices. : 20 minutes materials: drawing paper, crayons or markers Symbol Match Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Think about the meaning for each symbol. Draw a line from each symbol to its meaning. Ministers of the Church Have children think about each Evangelist. Say: Imagine you are in a mall and see one of the Evangelists. People notice and ask him to autograph a copy of his Gospel from the New Testament. Have children imagine which Evangelist it is and what he looks like. Say: Think about what you would like to know about Jesus and then ask the Evangelist your questions. Share with him what you already know about Jesus. Close with a prayer thanking God for the gift of the Gospels. winged man a. strength, sacrifice winged lion b. swift, Heaven 3. winged ox c. human, thinking 4. eagle d. courage, royalty : 5 minutes Grade 2 Unit 4 Session 18 i_fg_te_g2z_ap-redux.indd ~ pg 252 ~ 8/24/11 3:50 PM

19 The Last Supper GraDe 2, Unit 4, session 19 Catechist Guide page 113 Faith Focus: Celebrating the Eucharist is essential to Christian life. Haitian artist Florence The Last Supper is Martinez s Martinez was born in 1942, in Jacmel, Haiti. He is known primarily for his interpretation of this event in Jesus life. The story appears in all four Gospels. Jesus religious motifs, often depicting biblical is seated in the center with a halo, which events such as in The Last Supper. He has an unusual, almost studied style, unlike other Haitian artists. His use of vivid colors represents a holy person. Six disciples are seated on each side. Loaves and fishes are seen on the table. These appear in brings the biblical story to life. Looking at other stories of Jesus. Everyone s eyes are other examples of Haitian art, it appears that Florence has no copiers of his closed. Perhaps this signifies a reflective or spiritual experience. unique style. This often happens among Haiti s better-known artists. 19 The Last Supper Children s Book page 253 Ask: What do you notice about this artwork? (bright colors, Jesus and his friends having a meal) How can you identify Jesus? (He has a halo.) Say: The Last Supper was the last meal Jesus ate before he died. Ask: Who shared this meal with Jesus? (his friends) Think of a special meal you have had. What was the reason for the meal? Who was invited? Say: The Last Supper was a special for Jesus and his followers. The story of the Last Supper reminds us of how Jesus sacrificed himself for us. Recall the story of the Last Supper. Explain the story of the Last Supper in relation to the Eucharist. Explain that by giving ourselves to help others we follow Jesus. After completing page 113 in the Children s Book, A R T P R I N T shows Jesus and his disciples having a meal together. If you were at the table with Jesus, what would you like to ask him? The Last Supper Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking for Jesus help in sharing his love with others. Following the prayer say: Look for ways to give of yourself by serving others this week. Have children turn to page 253 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Have volunteers read aloud The Last Supper. Say: Jesus told his disciples that he wanted to share that meal with them. Ask: How does Jesus share this meal with us? (when we go to Mass and receive Holy Communion) Ask: What did Jesus mean when he shared the Bread and Wine and said, This is my Body and This is my Blood. (that the Bread and Wine became Jesus Body and Blood, the Eucharist) Where have you heard these words before? (during Mass) Say: The Last Supper has an important meaning for Catholics. It reminds us of Jesus great love and the sacrifice he made. It shows how we can make sacrifices by doing things for others. Ask: What are some ways that you can give of yourself for others? (Possible answers: spend with someone who is sick or lonely; read to a younger sibling) Read aloud Thank You, God. Have children work independently to write a thank-you note to God for the gift of his Son, Jesus. Invite volunteers to share their work. Reading God's Word Jesus sat at the table with his disciples. He said, I want to share this supper with you. Read aloud this feature. Then do a choral reading with one group reading the first sentence and a second group reading the next sentence. Discuss how Jesus sacrificed himself and why he did this for us. Repeat the Scripture verse as a prayer. Then Jesus took the bread. He blessed it and broke it. He gave it to them and said, This is my body which will be given for you. Do this in memory of me. After the meal he took a cup of wine. He said, This is my blood. It is given for you. Expression: Music adapted from Luke 22:14 20 Thank You, God Write a thank-you note inside the gift box, thanking God for the gift of his Son. We Come to Your Table Invite children to sing We Come to Your Table [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 17] or another appropriate song with a eucharistic theme. Talk about the meaning of the lyrics. Then sing the song again. Add simple gestures. : 5 minutes materials: CD player, [Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 17] We Come to Your Table or another appropriate song with a eucharistic theme. Last Supper Place Mats Say: Meals are special s we share with our families and others we care about, just as Jesus shared the Last Supper with his followers. Have children make place mats they can use at home. Suggest that children draw pictures in the colorful style of the or use stickers to show favorite foods and people who are special to them. Encourage children to be creative. Reading God s Word Jesus sacrificed himself for our sins. He is with God forever. : 25 minutes materials: construction paper, crayons or markers, stickers adapted from Hebrews 10:12 Grade 2 Unit 4 Session 19 i_fg_te_g2z_ap-redux.indd ~ pg 253 ~ 253 8/24/11 3:50 PM

20 The Crucifixion GraDe 2, Unit 4, session 20 Catechist Guide page 119 The Crucifixion Children s Book page 254 After completing page 119 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: The Church celebrates Lent and Holy Week. A R T P R I N T 20 Ask: What do you think about when you see this artwork? What do you already know about the last days of Jesus life on earth? (Answers will vary.) Say: Jesus came to show us how much God loves us. He saved us from our sins by his sacrifice. Ask: How would you describe Jesus love for us? (Answers will vary.) Say: We show Jesus how much we love him by living our lives the very best we can. We can do this by being a good child, a good friend, a good brother or sister. Discuss how Lent is a to ask for God s help in becoming the person he calls us to be. Explain that Lent reminds us to follow Jesus by changing our lives. Odilon Redon was a French painter and printmaker who lived from 1840 to He studied Ar t i fac ts The Crucifixion was constructed using oil on card. The solemn scene depicts the Crucifixion of Jesus. architecture, music, literature, and art The end of Holy Week in the Church leads criticism before committing to a career up to this event in the life of Jesus. There in art. Early on he produced 13 sets of lithographs with religious, literary, and symbolist themes. By 1900 color became appears to be brilliance, highlighted with white, yellow and pale blue, around the figure of Jesus. We know that after the increasingly important in his work. The Crucifixion, a joyful in the Church imagery he used is often suggestive of dreams and hallucinations. follows as we celebrate the Resurrection. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking God to help us change for the better. After the prayer say: Just as Jesus asked his disciples to change, Lent is a for us to change too. Have children turn to page 254 in their books. Read aloud the introduction and discuss the questions. Read aloud the first two paragraphs of Lent and Holy Week. Ask: What do you remember about receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday? (Answers will vary.) How can we show we are sorry for our sins? (ask God in prayer for forgiveness, ask others to forgive us, receive the Sacrament of Penance) Have volunteers read aloud the third paragraph. Ask: What special days do we celebrate during Holy Week? (Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday) Read aloud the last paragraph. Ask: What are some ways that children your age can live a new life? (changing a bad habit, making for daily prayer) shows Jesus hanging on the cross. Do you know someone who wears a cross on a necklace? What do you think that means? Lent and Holy Week Sing Hosanna! Read aloud from a children s Bible or tell in your own words the story of Jesus entry into Jerusalem that we hear on Palm Sunday from Mark 11:1 11. Point out the song that the crowd sang. Remind children that we sing the same song during Mass. Invite children to sing Echo Echo Holy, Holy [[Finding Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 3] or another version of the Sanctus that you sing in your parish. Have children wave their branches while they sing. Lent begins with Ash Wednesday. Ashes are put on our foreheads. The ashes are a sign that we are sorry for our sins. The last week of Lent is Holy Week. It is a special for remembering. We remember all that happened leading to Jesus Death and Resurrection. On Palm Sunday we remember Jesus entrance into Jerusalem. On Holy Thursday we recall how Jesus gave himself to us in the Eucharist. On Good Friday we remember how Jesus suffered and died. At the vigil Mass on Holy Saturday, we celebrate Jesus Resurrection. Jesus died for our sins so that we could live a new life. With Jesus help we can learn to care for others as Jesus did. About Lent Write a word from the word box to finish each sentence. change Lent remember prepare Lent is a to what Jesus has done for us. 2. During Lent we for Easter. 3. The last week of begins with Palm Sunday. 4. During Lent we our ways to follow Jesus Read aloud About Lent. Have children work independently to complete the sentences about Lent, using the terms provided. : 10 minutes materials: small tree branches, CD player, Echo Holy, Holy [Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 3] or another version of the Sanctus Prayer Pots Have children make pots using modeling clay. Give each child six small squares of red paper. Model how to fold each square in half and cut out a heart shape. Invite children to take home the prayer pot and hearts. Each week of Lent, tell children to place one heart in the pot to represent a good deed they performed that week. Tell children that the last heart is placed in the pot on Palm Sunday. : minutes materials: modeling clay, red construction paper, scissors Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Closer to Jesus Ask children to think for a moment about the great love Jesus has for us. Ask: What are some ways that you can feel Jesus love for you? Invite children to speak with Jesus heart-to-heart, sharing with him their desire to follow him through words and actions. Close the lesson by leading children to reverently pray the Sign of the Cross. : 3 minutes Grade 2 Unit 4 Session 20 i_fg_te_g2z_ap-redux.indd ~ pg 254 ~ 8/24/11 3:50 PM

21 The Beatitudes GraDe 2, Unit 5, session 21 Catechist Guide page 125 The Beatitudes Children s Book page 255 John Stevens is a Say: This artwork shows words that Jesus used to give a plan for Christians to follow. They are called Beatitudes. Jesus said that this is the way to find true happiness for ourselves and for others. Point out some of the Beatitudes on the. Explain Blessed are those who are kind to others. They shall have kindness shown to them. Learn the response to the Dismissal. Define Beatitudes. After completing page 125 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: Jesus gives us a plan for true happiness in the Beatitudes. A R T P R I N T 21 Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking the Holy Spirit to move us closer to Jesus. After the prayer say: We will learn more about the Beatitudes later. Today we will talk about one beatitude. The Beatitudes illustrates the calligrapher, a designer of logos, and an illustrator of letterforms with more than Beatitudes in calligraphy, using different letter formations, sizes, and colors. 27 years of experience. He has worked with clients in book and magazine publishing, packaging, type and graphic Various ink and paint techniques make each piece unique. Some key words such as Peacemaker and Merciful stand alone design, television and film. Stevens has practiced calligraphy as an art form, in the background. Color choices make certain words stand out, such as Meek, producing one-of-a-kind pieces. He is sought by many to teach his craft. His work has appeared in many books featuring the Kingdom of Heaven, poor in spirit, and art of calligraphy and lettering. from Scripture. Blessed are the meek. Stevens s work is a wonderful representation of the verses Have children turn to page 255 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Have volunteers read aloud Reaching Out to Others. Ask: Why did Jesus give us a plan to follow? (so we can live a happy life) Have children look up the word Beatitudes in the Glossary. Ask: What do the Beatitudes help us do? (live more like Jesus) Invite children to read in unison the beatitude calling them to show kindness to others. Ask: How do you feel when you hear unkind words or see unkind actions? (sad, upset, angry) What can you do when you hear or see these things? (Possible answers: walk away, change the channel or turn off the video, ask the person to stop) Say: We all feel hurt when we see others acting in an unkind way. God wants us to use kind words and actions. Read aloud Blessed Are the Kind. Have children work independently to write about showing kindness toward one another. Link to Liturgy shows Jesus plan for true happiness that we call the Beatitudes. How does following Jesus make you happy? Reaching Out to Others Many people came to hear Jesus. He talked to them about ways to live a happy life. He gave them a plan to follow. This plan is called the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes help us to live more like Jesus. One Beatitude teaches us to reach out to others. We do this by sharing, helping, and showing kindness in our words and actions. Jesus said, Blessed are those who are kind to others. They shall have kindness shown to them. adapted from Matthew 5:7 Blessed Are the Kind Read aloud this feature. Say: The priest or deacon says these words at the end of Mass. The words remind us that when Mass is over, we are to take what we ve received out into the world. Listen for these words the next you attend Mass. Join in the response. Intercessions of Kindness Have children sit in a circle. Ask each child to think of one way to show kindness by their actions or words. Invite children to act out their plan for kindness for others to guess. Go around the circle. After each child has acted out his or her idea, have the group respond with: Let us show kindness as Jesus would. End by leading children in a prayer asking the Holy Spirit for help to spread kindness wherever they go. : 5 minutes Write about a you showed kindness. Write about a someone was kind to you. Showing Kindness Have children write the kindness beatitude on paper, using different colors. Invite them to draw a picture showing how they would live this beatitude by showing kindness to one another. : 25 minutes materials: drawing paper, markers or crayons, watercolor paint Link to Liturgy At the end of Mass, we are blessed and sent forth. The priest or deacon says, Go forth, the Mass is ended. We say, Thanks be to God. Grade 2 Unit 5 Session 21 ~ pg 2 ~ 255 8/24/11 3: 0 PM

22 Tablets of the Law GraDe 2, Unit 5, session 22 Catechist Guide page 131 After completing page 131 in the Children s Book, Faith Focus: The Ten Commandments help us make good choices. A R T P R I N T 22 Tablets of the Law Children s Book page 256 Ask: What important Bible story is shown in this artwork? (Moses receiving the Ten Commandments) Why do we follow the Ten Commandments today? (They help us know what God wants from us and help us make good choices.) Say: We show love for God and others when we follow the commandments. Identify the Ten Commandments. Tell why God wants us to choose to follow him. Discuss why God gives us a choice to do the right thing or not. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking God to help us follow the commandments and make good choices. After the prayer say: Take some to think about the commandments the next you need to make a choice. Marc Chagall Moses Receives the Tablets Have children turn to page 256 in their books. Read aloud the introduction In his teens he decided to become an artist. Throughout his career he produced of the Law was produced as a color lithograph through the use of a printing process. This artwork is one of many paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, artworks made by Marc Chagall, featuring ceramics, stained glass, and designs for theater and ballet. Chagall told biblical Moses. Some are lithographs, and others are paintings. Moses is often shown stories in his dreamlike paintings and etchings. His artworks also depict subjects from mythology and folklore. Chagall is receiving the tablets from God. The artwork shows one of many stories from the Old Testament. Chagall produced Read aloud the heading. Ask: What do you think Follow God s Laws means? (obey the Ten Commandments) Invite two children to take the parts of the narrator and Moses and read aloud Follow God s Laws. Ask: Why do you think God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses? (so his people would know what they must do to love God and follow his laws) Discuss the two choices Moses explained to his people. Ask: Why does God give everyone a choice to follow or not to follow his laws? (God gives us the gift of freedom to make choices.) known as one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. many other paintings and lithographs depicting Old Testament stories. Read aloud Choose God. Have children work independently to complete the activity. Invite volunteers to share their answers. ( ) was born into a Jewish family. Reading God's Word shows Moses receiving the Ten Commandments from God. How can you show that you know the commandments? Follow God s Laws Moses was a great leader of the Jewish people. He led them to freedom. He reminded them why it was important to do what God wanted. Making Choices Show children two movements: open hands with outstretched arms for a good choice and head bowed down for a poor choice. Have children perform one of the actions silently in response to the following prompts: Moses said, Good things will happen if you obey the Ten Commandments. Love God and follow his laws. Then you will be blessed. You can also choose not to follow God. Then you will not be blessed. The choice is yours to make. adapted from Deuteronomy 30:16 18 Choose God Read each sentence. One word is scrambled. Draw a line from the sentence to the unscrambled word. was a great leader. a. freedom 2. Moses led the people to dmerfeo. b. Commandments 3. Obey the mancommnetsd. c. laws 4. Choose to follow God s wlsa. d. Moses 1. osmse Reading God s Word Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. adapted from John 14:6 256 Read aloud this feature. Say: These beautiful words from Scripture remind us that Jesus is our example of love and goodness. By being like Jesus, we are choosing life with God. Have children read aloud the passage in unison. Grade 2 Unit 5 Session 22 helping a friend in need respecting parents and teachers arguing with a family member being kind to animals littering planting flowers in a garden. Have children offer a prayer asking God to help us make good choices. : 5 minutes Friendship Bracelets Have children make friendship bracelets to represent Jesus words I am the way, the truth, and the life. Help children to string a yellow, blue, green, and red bead on yarn and knot the ends. Explain the meaning of each color: The yellow bead represents Jesus as the way. The blue bead is for the truth. The green bead is for the life. The red bead is for the love of Jesus. Remember, Jesus is your friend. Invite children to take their necklaces home to share with family members. : 25 minutes materials: yarn, yellow, blue, green, and red beads; scissors ~ pg 2 6 ~ 8/24/11 3: 0 PM

23 Coverdale Road GraDe 2, Unit 5, session 23 Catechist Guide page 137 Faith Focus: We can be like Jesus by loving our neighbors. Coverdale Road Children s Book page 257 After completing page 137 in the Children s Book, A R T P R I N T 23 Ask: What games do you like to play with your friends? What do people in your neighborhood do together? (Answers will vary.) Say: Jesus reminds us that all people are our neighbors and tells us how to treat them. Identify love of God and neighbor as the Great Commandment. Explain who our neighbors are. Describe ways we show and receive love. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking God to help us be good friends and neighbors. After the prayer say: Practice ways to show love to your neighbors a smile, a handshake, or a kind word. Sophia Elliot is an English contemporary artist. After November in Coverdale Road is oil on canvas, depicting four friends completing art studies at Hammersmith playing tennis on an icy November day. (West London College) and the Chelsea School of Art, Elliot built up her first Next to family members, friends are the most important people in a child s collection of work. She joined a studio and art club in London, where she exhibited her work. Elliot spent in Wales, life. Young children think of friends as someone to play with. As they grow older, they learn that they can have a friend painting landscapes. She also produced works for greeting cards. Her work in oils and be a friend. Friendship requires a conscious effort between all involved. and pastels capture the subtle nuances of form, color, and light. Have children turn to page 257 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Read aloud Love Your Neighbor. Ask: Who does Jesus say is our neighbor? (all people) How are we to love our neighbors? (as ourselves) Help children recall the Great Commandment. Ask: What are some ways we can love our neighbor as we love ourselves? (show care, friendliness, encouragement, and understanding toward others) What are some ways you have felt love? (Answers will vary.) Say: Remember that love can be things you have done or said. It can also be things others have done for you. Family and Community Read aloud Love in Action. Have children work independently to write words they say and deeds they do to show love shows friends playing and bringing joy to their neighborhood. How are you a good neighbor where you live? Love Your Neighbor Jesus often spoke about loving one another. He teaches us that all people are our neighbors and that we should love them as we do ourselves. Jesus teachings tell us, If you see a neighbor who needs help, do not close your heart to this person. Your love is not to be just words you say. Love must be something that you do. My Neighbor Arrange children into three groups. Assign each group a stanza from the poem below. Then have children recite the poem. Neighbors all have different faces. Neighbors come from many places. Neighbors play and neighbors run. Neighbors together like to have fun. Neighbors know to share, taking turns and playing fair. Neighbors come and neighbors go. But there are new neighbors to know. Offer a prayer asking Jesus to help us love our neighbor as ourselves. : 5 minutes adapted from 1 John 3:17 18 Love in Action Jesus teaches us to love others as we love ourselves. Write down some ways you show love in your life. people you love. things you love. Messages of Love Have children make a special out of season valentine for someone. Tell them to write a message of love or friendship. Have children send or hand deliver the valentine to this person. : 25 minutes materials: red construction paper, markers, heart stickers (optional) Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer What do you say to show love? What do you do to show love? Love in Action Have children imagine they are one of the four friends playing tennis. Say: Look around you. What is the weather like? What do you see and hear? Invite children to imagine another neighbor joining their group. Ask: What do you say to this neighbor to make him or her feel welcome and included? Does the neighbor play with you? Notice how you feel about what happens. Close with a prayer asking God to help children do what Jesus teaches about loving our neighbor. : 5 minutes Grade 2 Unit 5 Session 23 ~ pg 2 ~ 257 8/24/11 3: 0 PM

24 First Steps A R T P R I N T 24 GraDe 2, Unit 5, session 24 Catechist Guide page 143 Faith Focus: God wants us to respect one another s good name and property. First Steps Children s Book page 258 After completing page 143 in the Children s Book, Say: Look at this mother. Ask: How is she helping her child? What other ways do parents help their children? How has a family member helped you recently? (Answers will vary.) Say: God wants us to respect our families. Ask: What are some ways you show respect at home? (listening to our parents, making efforts to get along with one another, helping without being asked) Explain how God wants us to treat others respectfully. Identify ways to show respect in a family. ways to show we are peacemakers. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking God for the special love felt with the members of our families. After the prayer say: This week look for ways to reach out and show respect to family members. Daniel Clarke is an American painter and printmaker born in First Steps is casein on painted paper. Casein is a protein He is currently living and working extracted from milk and used to make in France. He received a Fine Arts degree from Yale University in 1993 before paints, plastics, adhesives, and foods. The subject of the artwork is a mother who moving to Paris in He has explored both pictorial and abstract designs but is dedicated to a free flow of color and is lovingly supporting her young son as he attempts to take his first steps. This representation of respect in a loving composition. He has concentrated on the art medium of acrylic and watercolor paint. family shows how family members love, help, and support one another. The love a child experiences in a family helps the child see and understand God s love. 24 Have children turn to page 258 in their books. Read aloud the introduction Have volunteers read aloud Respect Others. Ask: How does God want us to treat others? (with love and kindness) How do you show love and kindness at school? (Answers will vary.) Stress the importance of kind words and respecting property. Remind children about the Beatitudes. Recite and explain the beatitude about peacemakers. Ask: What can you do to make peace at home? (show respect, don t argue, use good manners) Read aloud Keeping the Peace. Have children work independently to complete the activity. Invite volunteers to share their answers. Link to Liturgy Read aloud this feature. Say: It takes effort to live in peace with others. When we share the sign of peace at Mass, we are saying that we respect one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. Invite children to offer the sign of peace to one another. 24 shows a mother teaching her son to walk. How do we learn to help one another? Respect Others God wants us to treat everyone with love and kindness. He teaches us that we will be happy if we show respect for others and their feelings. Expression: Music Song of Respect in the Dell. We can show respect by living in peace with others. saying kind things about one another. returning things we borrow. Sing the song with children to the tune of The Farmer Respecting your good name, Respecting your good name, This is how I show I care, Respecting your good name. Respect for family, Respect for family, This is how I show I care, Respect for family. Respect for property, Respect for property, This is how I show I care, Respect for property. Keeping the Peace Write ways that you can be a peacemaker by showing respect. I show respect to my family when I Have children pray silently, asking God for help to show respect for others.. I show respect to friends and neighbors when I. Link to Liturgy At Mass the sign of peace is one way we show respect for others. My Family Collage Have children make collages that represent their families. Tell children to cut pictures and words from magazines and other media that remind them of each person s qualities. Have children group together pictures and words that refer to a certain family member. Invite children to explain their collage and then take it home. : 25 minutes materials: construction paper, scissors, magazines, brochures, and other media; glue 258 : 5 minutes Grade 2 Unit 5 Session 24 ~ pg 2 8 ~ 8/24/11 3: 0 PM

25 Arum Lilies A R T P R I N T 25 GraDe 2, Unit 5, session 25 Catechist Guide page 149 Faith Focus: The Church celebrates Easter. Arum Lilies Children s Book page 259 After completing page 149 in the Children s Book, Explain that Easter is a to reflect on the gift of eternal life. Describe Easter as a of joy. Discuss why spring is the perfect season to celebrate Easter. Ask: What are your favorite flowers? What do you think about when you see white lilies? (Answers will vary.) Say: White lilies in your home or church at Easter are to remind us of the risen Jesus. Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking the risen Jesus to bless us with a joyful heart. After the prayer say: Share with others the feeling of joy we experience at Easter. Tell a neighbor what makes you joyful. Lillian Delevoryas was born in Chicopee, Massachusetts. Lilies, in their many varieties, are trumpet-like flowers, stately and noble. Have children turn to page 259 in their books. Read aloud the introduction From the age of five, Lillian had a passion for sketching. In the 1950s she received The large petals open and surrender to light while giving off a beautiful perfume. training at the Pratt Institute and the Cooper Union in New York. In 1970 she moved to England. During this her art The white lily is a symbol of purity and was appliqué wall hangings and garments for show business, private individuals, churches, and public spaces. From 1972 lilies are used to decorate churches and homes during the Easter season. The white blossoms remind Christians of the Have volunteers read aloud We Celebrate Easter. Ask: How long does the Easter season last? (50 days) What other feast do we celebrate during the Easter season? (the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven) When does the Easter season end? (on Pentecost Sunday) Why do you think spring is the perfect season to celebrate Easter? (There is new life in nature just as Jesus rose to new life.) Say: Jesus Resurrection to new life makes him alive in our hearts just as the earth comes alive with new growth. Invite children to pantomime something they do outdoors in the spring for the class to guess. she began her floral watercolors, which have been transformed into tapestries, pure new life that comes to them through the Resurrection of Jesus. Jesus Resurrection. Artists often place a lily in the hands of the Virgin Mary. Easter wallpapers, and fabrics shows a bouquet of lilies. If you could give the risen Jesus a bouquet of flowers, what kind would you give? Why? We Celebrate Easter Easter is the most joyful season of the Church year. On Easter Sunday we celebrate Jesus Resurrection from the dead. During the Easter season, we also remember Jesus Ascension into Heaven. Jesus Christ is there with God the Father. Read aloud Alleluia. Help children brainstorm ideas about what they would most like to thank Jesus for during the Easter season. Then have children work independently to complete the activity. Spring Dance Develop a simple dance to celebrate the new life seen during spring. Provide boys with green crepe paper streamers and girls with streamers representing the colors of flowers. Have girls form an inner circle representing blooms on flowers and boys form an outer circle representing leaves on flowers. Tell children to begin, bent toward the ground, with streamers lying on the floor. Play instrumental music, such as Song of Love [[Finding God Grade 2 CD 2, Track 2] as children dance in a circle, twirling their streamers upwards to symbolize growth. : 5 minutes materials: crepe paper, CD player; instrumental music such as Song of Love [Finding God Grade 2, CD 2, Track 2] or Robert Schumann s Spring Symphony Prayer Lilies Have children form a white lily by using tissue paper gathered in the center and placed inside a paper cup. The tissue paper hanging over the rim of the cup can be pulled over the sides to make the petals of the lily. Write prayer petitions on strips of yellow paper to be placed in the center of the lily. Invite children to take their lilies home and choose a daily petition. End by praying Rejoice! Jesus is always with us. The Easter Season lasts 50 days. It ends on Pentecost Sunday. On that day the Holy Spirit came to the disciples. Then they went out to tell the world about Jesus. Jesus brings us all the gift of Salvation. We can live in peace, knowing that we have been saved. : 30 minutes materials: white tissue paper, paper cups, yellow paper strips, markers Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Alleluia Meet the Risen Jesus Invite children to think about what happened on Easter morning. Say: Imagine coming face-to-face with the risen Jesus. Ask: What do you say to Jesus? What does Jesus say to you? How does being with Jesus make you feel? Invite children to spend a few moments speaking heart-to-heart with the risen Jesus Christ. Close by singing together a simple Alleluia. Write an Easter prayer. End with Alleluia. : 3 minutes Grade 2 Unit 5 Session 25 ~ pg 2 ~ 259 8/24/11 3: 0 PM

26 Answer Key shows adults and children walking to a country church. How do you get ready to go to Mass? 18 Followers of Jesus make others feel welcome inside of church. When you go to Mass, you gather with others to worship. When you leave, your work is not done. You continue the work of Jesus. People who worship in a parish also give their and talents to serve others. This is called a ministry. Ministry is service or work done for others. At Mass we listen to God s Word in the Bible. When it is for the Liturgy of the Word, what do you see and hear? The priest or deacon reads from the Lectionary for Mass. He reads a story about Jesus life from one of the four Gospels. It is one part of the Liturgy of the Word. List what you do inside church as a follower of Jesus. Then list what you do outside of church. Write your ideas in the chart. Possible answers: The Gospels are from a part of the Bible called the New Testament. The Gospel writers are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. They are called Evangelists. In Church Outside of Church welcome others spend with others worship and pray share money listen share talents sing visit those who are sick or elderly participate in choir help neighbors 1. winged man a. strength, sacrifice bring forward the gifts obey parents 2. winged lion b. swift, Heaven 3. winged ox c. human, thinking 4. eagle d. courage, royalty The Evangelists are often shown as symbols. Matthew is a winged man. Mark is a winged lion. Luke is a winged ox. John is an eagle. Symbol Match Think about the meaning for each symbol. Draw a line from each symbol to its meaning. Many churches have ministers of hospitality who welcome people to the parish church for Mass. Grade 2 Unit 4 Session shows Jesus hanging on the cross. Do you know someone who wears a cross on a necklace? What do you think that means? 22 Grade 2 Unit 4 Session shows Moses receiving the Ten Commandments from God. How can you show that you know the commandments? Lent and Holy Week Follow God s Laws Lent begins with Ash Wednesday. Ashes are put on our foreheads. The ashes are a sign that we are sorry for our sins. Moses was a great leader of the Jewish people. He led them to freedom. He reminded them why it was important to do what God wanted. The last week of Lent is Holy Week. It is a special for remembering. We remember all that happened leading to Jesus Death and Resurrection. Moses said, Good things will happen if you obey the Ten Commandments. Love God and follow his laws. Then you will be blessed. On Palm Sunday we remember Jesus entrance into Jerusalem. On Holy Thursday we recall how Jesus gave himself to us in the Eucharist. On Good Friday we remember how Jesus suffered and died. At the vigil Mass on Holy Saturday, we celebrate Jesus Resurrection. You can also choose not to follow God. Then you will not be blessed. The choice is yours to make. adapted from Deuteronomy 30:16 18 Jesus died for our sins so that we could live a new life. With Jesus help we can learn to care for others as Jesus did. Choose God Read each sentence. One word is scrambled. Draw a line from the sentence to the unscrambled word. About Lent Write a word from the word box to finish each sentence. change Lent remember 1. Lent is a to remember 2. During Lent we prepare 3. The last week of Lent During Lent we change was a great leader. a. freedom 2. Moses led the people to dmerfeo. b. Commandments 3. Obey the mancommnetsd. c. laws 4. Choose to follow God s wlsa. d. Moses 1. osmse prepare what Jesus has done for us. for Easter. begins with Palm Sunday. Reading God s Word our ways to follow Jesus. Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. adapted from John 14: shows a plaque with symbols of the four Gospel writers. If you were a Gospel writer, what would you write about Jesus? The Four Gospels 20 We Are Members of the Church Link to Liturgy Grade 2 Unit 4 Session 20 Grade 2 Unit 5 Session 22 i_fg_te_g2z_ap-redux.indd ~ pg 260 ~ 8/24/11 3:50 PM