THEOLOGY I. PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS

Transcription

1 THEOLOGY I. PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS PHILOSOPHY The Department of Theology of Belén Jesuit Preparatory School is rooted in the values of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and is specifically guided by the principles of Jesuit Secondary Education and therefore, by the spirituality of the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. It is structured to form our students into mature, responsible Christian men who will become Men for Others, witnessing in their own lives their commitment to Jesus Christ which began at Baptism, is strengthened in Confirmation and is nurtured in all the other sacraments. Conscious of the fact that knowledge of the faith is important in our students' growth as members of the Church, our department strives to provide a sound curriculum in the most important areas of theological study. We also believe that knowledge of our Catholic faith is not enough, that this faith must be put into practice, for "faith without actions is dead" (James, 2, 17). Therefore, we are especially concerned that our teaching be oriented toward forming young men who can grow out of the self-centered, hedonistic lifestyles which our society rewards, and who can offer their talents, their time and their gifts in generous service to those in need. The Theology Department is aware that while we may be the sowers of the seed, it is the Lord who makes it grow (I Cor. 3,7). Thus, we believe that prayer is absolutely essential in the process of maturing in the faith. It is in this one-to-one encounter with the Resurrected Lord where commitment to the Gospel finds its source and is strengthened. We, therefore, make conscious efforts to help and motivate our students to become men of prayer who participate in the sacraments and are able to discern the will of God. We believe in the promise of youth and in their capacity to be living witnesses of the Resurrected Christ. In this spirit, we strive to provide our young men with opportunities, such as the Peer Ministry Program, whereby they can be leaders among their peers; in both, words, and deeds, "light for the world, salt of the earth" (Mt. 5, 14). Our Theology curriculum, our retreats and service programs, our system of spiritual counseling, our liturgies and all our endeavors have but one goal: instill in our students the desire to be like Christ and to follow Him (Rom. 8, 29). GENERAL DEPARTAMENTAL OBJECTIVES The Department of Theology of Belén Jesuit Preparatory School strives to: 1. Create in our students a clear understanding of the Resurrection of Christ as the cornerstone of Christianity, the root of the Catholic Church and the center and source of our faith and hope. Theology, Page 1

2 2. Introduce the basic beliefs of our Catholic faith, according to the Holy Scriptures, as interpreted by the tradition of the Church and the Second Vatican Council. 3. Introduce students to the Holy Scriptures by providing the basic tools on how to use and interpret the Bible. 4. Familiarize students with the Hebrew Scriptures as well as its socio-cultural background in order to draw connections with the person of Jesus Christ and the formation of the Christian Church. 5. Familiarize students with the Christian Scriptures, placing special emphasis on the person of Jesus Christ, his teachings and deeds. 6. Present an overview of the historical process of the Catholic Church, emphasizing the role of the Spirit in the life of the ecclesial community, in its liturgy, sacraments, and spirituality. 7. Provide a solid background in Jewish religious, social and political history in order for our students to truly understand the person of Jesus Christ. 8. Familiarize our students with the person of Jesus Christ, his teachings and deeds, and help them to live the spirit of the Beatitudes. 9. Instill a sense of moral responsibility which hinges on the correlation between our relationship with God, ourselves and others. 10. Inspire students to recognize the importance of a duly formed conscience and to live out the principles of Christian morality, which "conforms us to the image" of our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 9, 29). 11. Help our students to understand that the general principles of Catholic Social Doctrine as well as the specific teachings of the Church regarding social issues are based on the dignity of the human person, "created as image of God and after his likeness" (Gen. 1, 26). 12. Present the missionary nature and activity of the Church so as to help the students reflect on their own vocations as heralds of the Gospel. 13. Show that the ministry of Jesus - preaching, healing, service and community building - is the source of the ministry which, by virtue of our Baptism, we are called to exercise according to the gifts of the Holy Spirit. 14. Help our students, following Ignatian Spirituality, to integrate all the religious knowledge they have acquired in a synthetic view of the world, humankind and themselves according to our Lord Jesus Christ's mind and values. Theology, Page 2

3 II. COURSE OFFERINGS THL 8100: ELEMENTS OF CHRISTIAN FAITH 0.75 Credit Promotion Credit for 6th Grade This is a foundational course designed to create a basic Catholic theological understanding among all 6 th graders. It covers aspects such as the Old Testament, New Testament, Prayers, Liturgical Calendar, Church History, Saints, the Church and its teachings. The students will also develop a consistent prayer life by leading class with the Rosary prayers which include the Apostle s Creed, Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be. 1. TEXT Faith First, The New American Bible 2. AUDIO VISUALS The teacher will expand on the Biblical stories by showing slides, movies and videos on the Old Testament History. 3. COURSE OUTLINE A. We believe 1. The Gift of Faith 2. God s Own Word to Us 3. Living the Covenant: A Scripture Story 4. The Mystery of God 5. Jesus Christ, the Son of God 6. God s Plan of Salvation: A Scripture Story 7. The Church: The Age of the Spirit 8. The People of God 9. Mary, Mother of Christ, Mother of the Church 10. Come, You Who Are Blessed : A Scripture Story B. We Worship 1. Celebrating the Liturgy 2. Passover and the Sabbath: A Scripture Story Theology, Page 3

4 3. Baptism and Confirmation 4. David, King of Israel: A Scripture Story 5. The Eucharist 6. The Parable of the Great Feast: A Scripture Story 7. Sacraments of Healing C. We live 1. Our Call to Holiness 2. Making Choices 3. Loving God 4. Loving One Another 5. The Wisdom Books: A Scripture Story D. We Pray 1. People of Prayer 2. Forms of Prayer 3. The Lord s Prayer: A Scripture Story 4. COURSE OBJECTIVES Upon completion of the procedures of this course, the student will be able to demonstrate in oral and written form an understanding of the following objectives. - Explain how God communicates himself through the Bible. - Explain what the name Yahweh tells us about God. - Describe the work of the prophets, whom God sent to his people in Old Testament times. - Explain the primary concerns of the Old Testament prophets. - Explain how God challenged and comforted his people during the Exile. - Explain what we mean when we say that God is a mystery. - Explain what we mean when we say that God created the world and made us in his own image. - Demonstrate what we have come to know about God. - Explain the Church s beliefs about Jesus Christ. - Explain why the death and resurrection of Jesus are important. - Explain why Paul wrote letters to the early Christians. - Demonstrate ways we are followers of Jesus. - Explain why Pentecost is called the birthday of the Church. - Describe the four marks of the Church. - Explain why we call the Church the People of God. - Explain why we call the Church the Body of Christ. - Describe why the kingdom of God and the Beatitudes are important in the teachings of Jesus. Theology, Page 4

5 - Explain why we honor Mary as the Mother of God and the mother of the Church. - Demonstrate ways we honor Mary. - Describe how the four accounts of the Gospel came to be written. - Explain how the Church uses the liturgical calendar. - Demonstrate ways we celebrate our unity in Jesus at the Eucharist. - Explain why the Book of Leviticus in the Old Testament is important. - Explain what the Book of Leviticus tells us about celebrating the Sabbath and Passover. - Explain what happens in the celebration of Baptism. - Explain why the Church celebrates the sacrament of Confirmation. - Explain what the Church requires of those seeking Confirmation. - Explain what the historical books of the Old Testament tell us about God and his covenant with the Israelites. - Describe who David was and how he came to be anointed. - Demonstrate ways we live our baptismal anointing. - Explain how the Old Testament helps us understand the meaning of the Eucharist. - Explain what we celebrate during the Liturgy of the Word. - Explain what we celebrate during the Liturgy of the Eucharist. - Demonstrate how the Eucharist strengthens our faith. - Explain why Jesus used parables. - Explain why the Church celebrates the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. - Illustrate healthy actions, words, and feelings of friendships. - Explain what the words service and communion mean. - Describe why Holy Orders is called a Sacrament at the Service of Communion. - Explain why we describe Matrimony as a Sacrament at the Service of Communion. - Describe the sacramentals used by the Church. - Describe what role grace and freedom play in our life of holiness. - Explain how the works of mercy guide us in living holy lives. - Demonstrate ways we can live a life of holiness. - Describe why forming a good conscience is important. - Explain what happens when we sin. - Demonstrate how Catholic Christians form their consciences. - Describe how the basic rules for living as a good person are written in our hearts. - Explain what the first three commandments teach us about living our relationship with God. - Explain what the Fourth and Fifth Commandments teach us. - Describe what the Sixth and the Ninth Commandments teach us. - Explain how the Seventh, Eighth, and Tenth Commandments help us imitate Jesus. - Describe what the sayings of the Book of Proverbs teach us. - Demonstrate ways our wise decisions and foolish decisions affect others. - Describe the role the prayer of adoration plays in our prayer life. - Explain how we meditate. - Demonstrate ways we can pray throughout our daily experience. Theology, Page 5

6 - Explain what the Lord s Prayer is for Christians. 5. EVALUATION Upon completing the stated objectives of this course, the following evaluative methods will be used to measure the student s level of proficiency: A. SEMESTER WORK 80% (Homework, Class Participation, Projects, Quizzes, Tests) B. SEMESTER EXAMS 20% Theology, Page 6

7 THL 8200: CREED AND PRAYER 0.75 Credit Promotion Credit for 7th Grade The purpose of this course is to bring the student to the realization that his faith is one that is alive and rich in tradition. Through the study of the Hebrew Scriptures and familiarization with the struggle of "God's chosen people", the student will become aware of his ties to the Jewish faith. Thus, he will be better equipped to comprehend the culture, traditions and person of Jesus of Nazareth. 1. TEXT: Creed and Prayer, published by Resources for Christian Living (copyright 2001); New American Bible (Fireside edition) 2. SUPPLEMENTARY READINGS: Liturgical readings for the Sundays of the academic year 3. COURSE OUTLINE A. We believe 1. The Gift of Faith 2. God s Own Word to Us 3. Living the Covenant: A Scripture Story 4. The Mystery of God 5. Jesus Christ, the Son of God 6. God s Plan of Salvation: A Scripture Story 7. The Church: The Age of the Spirit 8. The People of God 9. Mary, Mother of Christ, Mother of the Church 10. Come, You Who Are Blessed : A Scripture Story B. We Worship 1. Celebrating the Liturgy 2. Passover and the Sabbath: A Scripture Story 3. Baptism and Confirmation 4. David, King of Israel: A Scripture Story 5. The Eucharist 6. The Parable of the Great Feast: A Scripture Story 7. Sacraments of Healing C. We live 1. Our Call to Holiness 2. Making Choices 3. Loving God 4. Loving One Another Theology, Page 7

8 5. The Wisdom Books: A Scripture Story D. We Pray 1. People of Prayer 2. Forms of Prayer 3. The Lord s Prayer: A Scripture Story 4. COURSE OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of the material covered in the course, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the following objectives: Chapter 1 We Believe: 1) Describe the natural quest for God 2) Illustrate how both faith and reason help us know God 3) Explain why God reveals himself to us 4) Describe the educational role of the Church in faith development 5) Build skills to get in touch with God Chapter 2 The Word of God: 1) Explain how the different types of writing in the Bible help communicate God s word to us 2) Describe how God gradually revealed himself both in deeds and in words 3) Explain how the Holy Spirit helps us when we read or listen to the Bible being read 4) Relate how God feeds us with his word 5) Explain how listening, clarification and actions are important communication skills Chapter 3 The Man Born Blind: 1. Explain why the Gospel according to John was written 2. Relate how the man born blind responded to Jesus 3. Explain why the Gospel story of Jesus healing the man born blind helps us live our faith in Jesus 4. Describe why the Church uses symbols to express its faith in Jesus 5. Identify some of the common obstacles that can prevent us from seeing with eyes of faith Chapter 4 The Mystery of Creation: 1) Explain why we call God the Creator of heaven and earth 2) Describe how the diversity within creation manifests more and more about God 3) Explain why God created humankind 4) Describe how people are to live as images of God, reminding one another of God s loving presence with us 5) Explain that being created in the image and likeness of God guides us in developing relationships with others and with God Theology, Page 8

9 Chapter 5 God: The Father, Son and Holy Spirit 1) Explain why Christians believe in the mystery Holy Trinity 2) Relate how Christians have come to express the mystery of one God who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit 3) Explain that while we attribute certain works to different Persons of the Trinity, all the works of God are the work of all three divine Persons 4) Describe some of the ways that families and our Church are images of the mystery of the Trinity 5) Relate how the Trinity is the model of respect, sharing, communication, responsibility and cooperation in the family Chapter 6 The Transfiguration: 1) Explain the role that mountains play in the story of God s people 2) Explain the meaning of the Transfiguration 3) Relate why it is important for Christians today to read, reflect on, and retell the story of the Transfiguration 4) Explain why the faith of Christians enables them to see Christ in people that are suffering 5) Build skills that enable them to see God present in their own lives and in the lives of others Chapter 7 Jesus Christ, the Son of God: 1) Explain the role of Mary in God s plan of salvation 1) Identify how the Catholic Church expresses its belief in the Incarnation 2) Describe the infancy, childhood and public ministry of Jesus 3) Explain some common symbols Christians use to identify themselves as believers in Christ 4) Demonstrate through respect and acceptance that we are living signs of Jesus Christ Chapter 8 The Suffering Servant: 1) Explain the purpose of the Servant Songs in the Book of Isaiah 2) Describe the message of the fourth Servant Song 3) Relate how the qualities of the Suffering Servant are fulfilled in Jesus Christ 4) Explain how prophets in our own time identify and see the deeper meaning of injustice and suffering 5) Demonstrate ways to deal with suffering, both physical and spiritual Chapter 9 The Paschal Mystery: Jesus Passion and Death: The student will be able to: Theology, Page 9

10 1) Explain how the death of Jesus, the new Adam, was both an end and a beginning 2) Describe the source of evil in the world 3) Relate how the death of Jesus affects our lives 4) Explain how praying the Stations of the Cross helps us deepen our faith 5) Describe how Jesus death and resurrection give us hope and consolation as we face death Chapter 10 The Paschal Mystery: Jesus Resurrection and Ascension: The student will be able to: 1) Explain why the Resurrection is our greatest source of hope 2) Describe why the Ascension is a source of hope for all people 3) Describe how it feels to believe that you will live forever 4) Explain how Christ s victory over death has led many Christians to live a life of hope 5) Describe how our faith in the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus helps us to deal with the changes in our life Chapter 12 The Gift of the Holy Spirit: The student will be able to: 1) Explain the work of the Holy Spirit prior to the birth of Jesus Christ 2) Relate why Christ called the Spirit the Advocate 3) Identify why the Spirit is the life force of the Church 4) Explain that the Spirit moved Christians to express their faith in Christ through art 5) Identify the gifts of the Holy Spirit that help us live as true followers of Christ Chapter 13 - The Church: The People of God: The student will be able to: 1) Explain why we call the Church the new People of God 2) Demonstrate how the work of the Church is the work of all of its members 3) Identify the threefold role of the bishop as teacher, sanctifier and pastor 4) Explain how a pope is chosen to lead the Church 5) Relate how God calls each of us to a certain way of life Chapter 14 The Church: The Body of Christ: The student will be able to: 1) Understand how images help us to see more deeply into the mystery of the Church 2) Recall the four principal marks of the Church 3) Explain in more detail how the Church is one, holy, catholic and apostolic 4) Understand how the baptized are called to work together to build up the Church 5) Describe how to personally become a more vital part of the mission of the Church Chapter 18 The Call to Prayer: The student will be able to: Theology, Page 10

11 1) Explain why prayer is so important 2) Realize how the story of God s people helps us to understand prayer 3) Appreciate that the prayer of Jesus is the model prayer for Christians 4) Explain some of the forms of spirituality 5) Describe the value of keeping a spiritual journal Chapter 19 The Church: A People of Prayer 1) Explain how being a member of the Church helps one become a person of prayer 2) Describe the different forms of prayer in the Church 3) Explain different ways that we can grow as people of prayer 4) Appreciate the role of music in prayer 5) Identify some steps used in in a prayer of meditation Chapter 20 The Lord s Prayer: The student will be able to: 1) Identify the Lord s Prayer as a blueprint for living the Gospel 2) Describe how the Our Father focuses on belief in God and his loving plan for us 3) Relate how the Our Father also focuses on our needs as children of God 4) Identify some very concrete ways that we can live the Our Father 5) Evaluate consumerism in light of the Our Father Rosary: The student will be able to: 1) Describe the meaning and value of the rosary in our spiritual life 2) Explain what we mean by mystery in the context of the rosary 3) Describe the development of the rosary as a popular devotion 4) Be able to pray the rosary 5) Identify the 20 mysteries of the rosary Liturgical Year: The student will be able to: 1) Identify the temporal and sanctoral cycles of the liturgical year 2) Describe the Sunday and Weekday Cycles of the liturgical year 3) Identify the liturgical seasons, including the emphasis and color of each season 4) Prioritize the solemnities, feasts and memorials of the sanctoral cycle 5) Identify the beginning and end of the liturgical year 6) Explain what we mean by ordinary in the context of Ordinary Time Lent: The student will be able to: 1) Explain what we mean by lent and the derivation of the word lent 2) Describe the historical development of lent Theology, Page 11

12 3) Explain the purpose of lent 4) State when lent begins and ends 5) Name the three works of lent 6) Identify the vestment color associated with lent 7) Explain the purpose of ashes on Ash Wednesday 8) Define fasting and abstinence and the requirements for each in the Church 9) Describe the sacraments associated with lent Easter: The student will be able to: 1) Describe the meaning of Easter and its importance to Christians 2) Describe the season of Easter and its duration 3) Explain the meaning of the Paschal Candle, alleluia and the Exultet 4) Identify the theme and color of the Easter Season 5) Describe the symbols of Easter 6) Know the account of the disciples on the Road to Emmaus 7) Know what we mean when we say that we are Easter people 8) Know what we mean by the Ascension and identify when we celebrate it 9) Know why Pentecost is important in the life of the Church EVALUATION: Classwork/homework 35% Quizzes 15% Tests 30% Midterm/final examination 20% Theology, Page 12

13 THL 8300: LITURGY AND MORALITY 0.75 Credit Promotion for 8th Grade This course is designed to help students understand what we believe as Catholic Christians and how to live out those beliefs through the liturgy (the religious ceremonies of our Church) and morality (our commitment to live as Jesus taught us) 1. TEXT - Faith First: Liturgy and Morality. Allen, Texas: Resources for Christian Living, The New American Bible. (Hard-cover ed.) Wichita, KS: Catholic Bible Publ., COURSE OUTLINE First Semester A. General Introduction to the Course B. Chapter 1: All Praise the Lord s Name C. Community Prayers D. Introduction to the Bible E. Chapter 2: Dedication of the Temple: A Scripture Story F. Chapter 3: Let us Give Thanks to the Lord Our God G. Chapter 4: Reborn of the Spirit: A Scripture Story H. Mary in our Catholic Tradition I. Patron Saints in our Catholic Tradition J. Chapter 5: Baptism and Confirmation K. Chapter 6: Jesus Feeds Five Thousand: A Scripture Story L. Chapter 7: Eucharist M. The Vatican: the Heart of our Catholic Faith N. Thanksgiving Day in the United States O. Introduction to the Liturgical Year P. The Liturgical Season of Advent Q. The Liturgical Season of Christmas Second Semester A. Ordinary Time B. Chapter 8: Anointing of the Sick and Reconciliation C. Chapter 9: Holy Orders and Matrimony D. Chapter 10: Human Dignity and Happiness Theology, Page 13

14 E. Ash Wednesday and the Liturgical Season of Lent F. Chapter 11: One Person s Decision: A Scripture Story G. Ignatian Week: Getting to Know our Jesuit Tradition H. Chapter 12: The Decision to Live Our Life in Christ I. Chapter 14: The Exercise of Virtue J. Holy Week and the Easter Tridium K. The Liturgical Season of Easter L. Chapter 16: The Fist, Second and Third Commandment M. Chapter 18: The Fourth and Fifth Commandments N. Chapter 19: The Sixth, Seventh and Ninth Commandments O. Chapter 20: The Eighth and Tenth Commandments P. Chapter 21: The Church as Community and Institution Q. Chapter 22: The Church as Herald and Servant R. Chapter 23: The Church as Pilgrim S. Chapter 24: The Church as Sacrament and Sign 3. COURSE OBJECTIVES Upon completion of the procedures of this course, the student will be able to demonstrate in oral and written form an understanding of the following objectives: First Semester A. Introduction to the Course - Explain the scope and importance of our course - Describe the term liturgy and give specific examples of liturgies - Demonstrate that the liturgy is meant to honor God - Describe the term morality in simple human terms and in Christian terms - Explain that for Christians, Christ is the ultimate model of morality B. Chapter 1: All Praise the Lord s Name - Explain why the Church uses sacred symbols and actions to worship God - Describe the use of sacred images and sacred music in celebrations of faith - Explain the diverse ways the Church celebrates the liturgy - Describe ways the Church serves the People of God who are deaf - Demonstrate ways we show respect and reverence for God, people and creation C. Community Prayers - Explain the importance of personal prayer as well as the communal significance of Catholic prayers - Demonstrate the proper way of doing the Sign of the Cross - Students will be encouraged to refresh or memorize some of the most important Theology, Page 14

15 communal prayers of our Church, such as the Our Father, the Hail Mary and the Glory Prayer. D. Introduction to the Bible - Identify the role of Church tradition in interpreting revelation and authenticating its sources - Compare the complimentary functions of the Old and New Testaments in revealing God s covenants with humanity and their respective fulfillments - Recognize the Bible as a sacred book of God s revelation through which he communicates the mysteries of himself, his unfolding plan for our salvation, and his personal relationship with each of us - Define key terms in Bible study such as canon, testament, covenant, inspiration, inerrancy, among others - Identify the different languages used in the writing of the Bible - Distinguish between a Catholic and a Protestant Bible - Identify the Bible as a library of books, each in need of interpretation according to its particular literary character and the time and place it was written - Identify the major books of the Bible, especially the ones in the New Testament - Find and locate books, chapters and passages in the Bible - Help locate and explain footnotes in the Bible - Identify cross-references in the Bible E. Chapter 2: Dedication of the Temple: A Scripture Story - Explain the history of the Temple in Jerusalem - Restate the message of King Solomon when he dedicated the Temple - Compare the Temple in Jerusalem with our churches today - Describe the symbols of God s presence found in church - Explain how the human body is a special place to meet God F. Chapter 3: Let us Give Thanks to the Lord Our God - Explain how the liturgy helps us keep God at the center of our lives - Describe how the celebration of the sacraments allows us to become sharers in the life of God - Identify the changeable and unchangeable parts in a sacrament s celebration - Identify the blessings and other sacramentals that help us respond to God s presence in our lives - Demonstrate an awareness of God s presence in our lives G. Chapter 4: Reborn of the Spirit: A Scripture Story - Students will be asked to locate and read story from the Bible itself - Describe the pattern that John uses in the discourses with Jesus - Detail Jesus conversation with Nicodemus - Explain the message that Jesus gave to Nicodemus Theology, Page 15

16 - Describe how the Church helps people renew their faith in Christ - Identify fears that keep us from growing as faithful disciples of Jesus H. Mary in our Catholic Tradition - Describe Mary s role in the Catholic tradition - Explain the role of mediatorship, and differentiate between adoration, which is only due to God, and veneration, which is respect given to Mary and the saints - Explain the history of Marian devotion in the Church and how most countries have adopted Mary, under a particular title, to be its protector and patroness - Describe how the Church helps people see Mary as a person whose main task is to help people get closer to God. I. Patron Saints in our Catholic Tradition - Describe the role of saints in the Catholic tradition - Demonstrate understanding of the concept of mediatorship as well as adoration and veneration - Compare saints in the Church with the patriots and founding fathers of our country - Research the lives of their particular patron saints, or those saints whose name they bear J. Chapter 5: Baptism and Confirmation - Explain each of the Sacraments of Initiation - Summarize the way the Sacraments of Initiation introduce us into the Body of Christ, the Church - Describe how the sacrament of Baptism transforms our life - Explain the effects of celebrating the sacrament of Confirmation - Explain how the National Catholic Youth Conference helps Catholic youth grow as a faith community - Demonstrate how each of us can be a welcoming person K. Chapter 6: Jesus Feeds Five Thousand: A Scripture Story - Explain the symbolic meanings of bread: friendship, hospitality, and God s loving care - Describe how Jesus uses the word bread to reveal his identity - Retell the gospel story of Jesus feeding the crowd of five thousand people - Explain the connection between Jesus feeding the people and the Church s sharing of the Eucharist - Describe the Eucharist as Jesus promise of eternal life L. Chapter 7: Eucharist - Explain the Eucharist as a sacrifice that makes present again the sacrifice Of Jesus on the cross - Explain how the different elements of the Mass constitute one single act of worship Theology, Page 16

17 - Identify ways in which the Eucharist joins us closer to Christ and to one another - Give examples of how we can be bread for others - Explain the meaning of bread in the Society of Jesus: use of the word compañía by St. Ignatius of Loyola - Explain the Eucharist as the source of Christian life that celebrates our love and friendship with Jesus and with one another M. The Vatican: the Heart of our Catholic Faith - Describe the role of the Pope in our Catholic faith - Explain the connection of the Pope with the city of Rome, as well as the Vatican - Show them a National Geographic movie on the subject N. Thanksgiving Day in the United States - Describe the history of the Pilgrims and their first Thanksgiving dinner in Explain the development of this tradition in the United States - Make oral presentations of the way Thanksgiving Day is celebrated in each of their homes O. Introduction to the Liturgical Year - Explain the importance of the Liturgical Year in our Catholic tradition - Show students a drawing or diagram showing the Liturgical Year, with its different seasons and respective colors, practices and disciplines P. The Liturgical Season of Advent - Explain the importance of Advent as the time when we prepare for the coming of our Lord Jesus at Christmas time - Show students a drawing or diagram showing the liturgical season of Advent, with its four weeks of preparation and its respective colors and practices - Explain about the meaning of the Advent wreath Q. The Liturgical Season of Christmas - Explain the importance of Christmas as the time when we celebrate the incarnation and birth of our Lord Jesus - Show students a drawing or diagram showing the liturgical season of Christmas, with its important feasts (Holy Family, Epiphany) and practices - Explain each of the symbolic objects we use at this time: Nativity scene, Christmas tree, gifts, wreaths, garlands, etc. Second Semester Theology, Page 17

18 A. Ordinary Time - Demonstrate a connection between the liturgical season of Ordinary Time and the public ministry of our Lord Jesus - Explain about the meaning of green as the color that symbolizes this time. B. Chapter 8: Anointing of the Sick and Reconciliation - Describe how Christ s healing power continues in the Church today - Explain the importance of the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick - Describe the role of ministers to the sick - Identify the parables of mercy in the Gospels. - Explain the different names given to the sacrament of Penance - Describe how the sacrament of Reconciliation reconciles us with God and the church community - Summarize some steps to forgiveness and healing C. Chapter 9: Holy Orders and Matrimony - Explain how the sacraments of Holy Orders and Matrimony consecrate some members of the Church to live a life in Christ - Describe the three degrees of Holy Orders - Describe the special sign of love and unity Christian spouses are consecrated to be as they grow together in age and in faith - Explain why the family is so important and is called a domestic church - Identify ways the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy call all Christians to serve others D. Chapter 10: Human Dignity and Happiness - Explain why every human being is sacred; created in God s image and likeness - Explain that Baptism joins us to Christ and calls us to live holy lives - Summarize the beliefs of the Church about true happiness and holiness - Describe how the Holy Spirit helps us live as children of God - Explain how the Beatitudes summarize Jesus teachings E. Ash Wednesday and the Liturgical Season of Lent - Explain the history and development of Ash Wednesday as the beginning of Lent - Explain the meaning of Lent and compare it to the time Jesus spent in the desert before initiating his public ministry - Demonstrate understanding of the Catholic practices of almsgiving, fasting and abstinence during Lent - Recognize the symbolism of the color purple as the color that characterizes this season F. Chapter 11: One Person s Decision: A Scripture Story - Locate in the Bible and read the story of the Rich Young Man Theology, Page 18

19 - Identify important information about the Gospel according to Mark - Explain the response of the disciples to Jesus teaching about the wealth and the kingdom of God - Describe what it means to be a disciple of Jesus - Explain how St. Elizabeth of Hungary and St. Martin of Porres followed Jesus - Demonstrate ways to follow Jesus by living a simple life G. Ignatian Week: Getting to Know our Jesuit Tradition - Explain the history and development of the Jesuit order - Describe the contributions made by some outstanding Jesuits - Emphasize the life of an important Jesuit; name varies every year - Describe the different ministries carried out by the Jesuit order nowadays H. Chapter 12: The Decision to Live Our Life in Christ - Explain the meaning of Christian morality - Describe natural law and how it is the foundation of the moral life for all people - Explain how sin turns our hearts away from God s love - Retell the steps necessary to form a good conscience - Emphasize the connection between forming a good conscience and making responsible Christian decisions I. Chapter 14: The Exercise of Virtue - Describe the theological and moral virtues - Explain how living a life of virtue affects the common good - Summarize the basic principles of the Church s teaching on social justice - Describe ways that the People of God have lived the Church s teaching on social justice - Identify skills for living the moral virtues J. Holy Week and the Easter Tridium - Explain each of the days of Holy Week and each day s meaning - Show students a drawing or diagram showing Holy Week, with each of its days, color used, symbolism and practices - Explain almsgiving, fasting and abstinence - Describe the Easter Tridium: its theological component in comparison to the Old Testament Passover, as well as its liturgical symbolism for us today K. The Liturgical Season of Easter - Explain the importance of the Easter season as the time when we celebrate the most important time of our liturgical year - Describe the Paschal Mystery - Show students a drawing or diagram showing the liturgical season of Easter, Theology, Page 19

20 with its weeks of celebration and the importance of the main feasts of Easter Sunday, Ascension Thursday and Pentecost - Explain about the meaning of the Christian hope of eternal life L. Chapter 16: The Fist, Second and Third Commandment - Explain that the Law of God is truly a gift - Describe how Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Law - Present the meaning of the first three commandments - List the precepts of the Church - Explain the importance of identifying and rejecting idols, or false gods. M. Chapter 18: The Fourth and Fifth Commandments - Explain what the fourth commandment teaches about respecting parents and legitimate civil authorities - Describe what the fifth commandment teaches about respecting all human life as sacred - Demonstrate that Christians show respect for the sacredness of life by choosing peace rather than violence - Describe some of the ways that the Catholic bishops of the United States have proclaimed the sacredness of all human life - Demonstrate means of peaceful problem solving. N. Chapter 19: The Sixth, Seventh and Ninth Commandments - Summarize ways that the sixth and ninth commandments guide us in respecting our own sexuality and the sexuality of others - Describe ways the seventh commandment guides us in respecting possessions of others by being good stewards of God s creation - Explain the implications of the seventh commandment for work and the workplace - Demonstrate ways to honor and respect all creation - Evaluate today s media to determine whether they reflect the values of Jesus in their programming O. Chapter 20: The Eighth and Tenth Commandments - Explain how the eighth commandment guides us to be people of truth - Describe how the tenth commandment guides us in respecting other people and their possessions - Explain how the Our Father is a summary of the Gospel - Relate how St. Peter Claver and Blessed Josephine Bakhita stood up for the truth of the Gospel - Identify ways to be a positive influence on others Theology, Page 20

21 P. Chapter 21: The Church as Community and Institution - Describe how the first followers of Jesus spread the Christian faith - Describe how the early Church defended the faith against heresy - Highlight the developments of Christian worship - Explain the connection between contemporary forms of following Jesus with the example of the first followers of Jesus - Describe the characteristics of a strong community Q. Chapter 22: The Church as Herald and Servant - Explain how the Edict of Milan affected the Church and the leadership role of the pope - Describe the contributions of monasticism and the mendicant orders - Identify the contributions of the Fathers of the Church and of the Scholastics - Explain how the Church uses modern technology to spread the message of Jesus - Demonstrate how members of the Church today are called to be heralds and servants R. Chapter 23: The Church as Pilgrim - Explain the need for reform in the Church prior to the Protestant Reformation - Summarize the reforms put into motion by the Council of Trent - Describe St. Francis Xavier s contribution to the Church - Explain ways the Eastern rite Catholic Churches teach and proclaim the faith - Identify things needed as a pilgrim for the journey to the kingdom of God S. Chapter 24: The Church as Sacrament and Sign - Explain the importance of the Second Vatican Council - Summarize the importance of some of the documents of the Second Vatican Council and how they help the Church be a clear sign of Christ in the world - Describe how the life of Charles de Foucauld served as a sign of God s love to the world - Identify the biblical concept of a Jubilee Year and its importance in the new millennium - Describe what it means to be a Catholic Christian EVALUATION IMMEDIATE Students response to teacher s review at the end of class, participation in class discussion, and success on the assigned homework on text chapters and Bible passages. LONG TERM Quizzes and tests during semester, and final exam at the end of each semester. 1. Participation 10% Theology, Page 21

22 2. Class Work & Homework 20% 3. Quizzes & Projects 20% 4. Semester Tests 30% 5. Final Exam 20% THL 8400: CHRISTIAN MORALITY AND SACRAMENTAL THEOLOGY 1.0 Credit Promotion for 9th Grade A. CHRISTIAN MORALITY: This part of the course is geared to help guide the moral life of the student towards Christian values and vision. Course content is connected to the everyday life of the student the dilemmas, struggles and emerging identity of the adolescent are constantly addressed. Jesus life and story will be the model for character building and moral development. Together with the teachings of the Catholic Church, the course will strive to help the student develop the ability to reflect more deeply on the process of moral decision- making and become more open to conversion. 1. TEXT Ahlers,Allaire & Koch Growing in Christian Morality 2. CLASSROOM PROCEDURE 1. Read/discuss chapters in class, highlight important sections. 2. Read handouts that add/emphasize material to the particular area of study. 3. Read and analyze specific scripture that relate to the topics being studied. 4. Individual journaling on topics presented in class as part of reflection on the material. 5. Discuss topics relevant to Moral Theology as they occur in society around us. 6. View videos/internet websites in class on related materials as they are relevant to specific areas of study. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the following objectives: 3. COURSE OUTLINE & OBJECTIVES Chapter 1 Morality: Choosing What Kind of Person You Become A. Three Stories, Three Kinds of Choices. The student will: - Describe how making moral decisions affect their lives - Explain how peer acceptance affects the decision making process Theology, Page 22

23 - Identify how awareness of the right thing to do will help them make better moral choices B. Backing Up to Define Morality. The Student will: - Recognize that everyone has a morality, but each culture/person has a different morality - Identify that morality is based upon a set of values and principles that guide a person s choices - Describe how the morality of an individual changes as they grow up. - Explain why we need to be critical of the moral values we find in the society around us. C. Which Morality Will Be Mine? The student will: - Explain what kind of person they are becoming. - Describe how Jesus is fully human - Explain how making good moral choices make us fully human D. Becoming Morally Mature. The student will: - Explain how learning from past mistakes helps us grow into moral maturity. - Identify how moral development is linked to healthy self esteem. - Compare moral decision making within a context of personal freedom and one s values versus not based on fears or insecurities. Chapter 2 The Christian Vision of Morality: Jesus, Model of Full Humanness A. Jesus, Simon, and the Woman with the Bad Reputation. The student will: - Identify how the Gospel story of Jesus and the woman with the bad reputation provides a good model of Jesus as a morally good and fully human person - Explain how Jesus challenges us through his actions to a new way of life- the way of love - Recognize how Jesus, God s Incarnation, showed us what God s love is like in human terms. B. Who We Are and Where We Are Going. The student will: - Define sin as the inherent rejection of goodness in humanity, original sin - Explain that God sent his only Son to teach us how to be fully human, despite the presence of sin in our lives - Distinguish that we were created in God s image and likeness and that when we love, we are reflecting God in the world C. Loved By God Without Conditions. The student will: - Recognize that God sees beyond our sinfulness Theology, Page 23

24 - Express that people get glimpses of God s love for them through the love of others D. Responding to Love with Love. The student will: - Explain that humans are called to love God, others and creation in response to God s unconditional love. - Recognize through scripture that Jesus promised us that living out God s love in the world would help bring about God s kingdom E. To Live As Jesus Did. The student will: - Identify Faith, Hope and Love, the theological virtues, as gifts from God. - Distinguish the Cardinal Moral virtues as wise judgment, justice, courage and wholeness from the other virtues that hinge on these: honesty, respect for persons, compassion, respect for creation, reverence for human life and peacemaking are virtues that help us live as Jesus did. Chapter 3 Helps Along the Way: A Journey With Others A. Beyond Independence. The student will: - Recognize that people are relational by nature - Explain that we can not make the moral journey alone, since we are interdependent and that others around us are instruments of God s grace that help us on our way. - Identify the pillars of support that help us make good moral choices: God, our community, basic moral principles, civil laws, the teachings of Jesus and the teachings of Scripture, as well as the teachings of the church. B. Tuning in to God. The student will: - Explain how God s support is primary on our moral journey - Describe how reflecting on God s presence in our lives, praying our experiences helps us rely and trust in God in our daily lives - Define Grace and how it is God s constant presence in our lives - Express that accepting the gift of grace is what it means to have faith C. Community Is a Network of Relationships. The student will: - Describe that when we turn to parents, family, friends, other adults (teachers, coaches, counselors) and faith communities in our churches/parishes we recieve support. - Define the Communion of Saints as those who have gone before us in the faith who help us through their example of leading moral, Christian lives. D. Sources of Help from Society. The student will: Theology, Page 24

25 - Explain the four basic moral principles are acknowledged across many cultures that help humans make moral choices: 1)Do good, avoid evil. 2)The Golden Rule: Do unto others 3.)The end does not justify the means. 4) Follow what nature intends. - Explain that civil laws should be obeyed unless they are inherently unjust, thereby we are morally obligated to break/disobey them. E. Christian Teachings. The student will: - Identify the The 10 Commandments and the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus life and his parables as guides us in our moral life - Explain that the church offers us the wisdom and perspective the can help us make good moral choices F. Sin as a Violation of Relationships. The student will: - Explain that when we sin, we cut ourselves off from ourselves, others and God - Define original sin as an inherited part of our humanity - Define actual sin, by commission or omission - Describe sin as venial or mortal. G. Grace as God s Mercy, Forgiveness and Empowerment. The student will: - Explain how God s love, mercy and forgiveness are more powerful than our sin and that God s grace can overcome sin, free us and empower us - Describe that when we are open to God s grace, we experience reconciliation, a healing of relationships wounded by sin - Explain that we celebrate reconciliation as Catholics in the sacrament of Reconciliation and the Eucharist Chapter 4 Moral Decision Making: Listening to Reality A. A Process for Moral Decision Making. The student will: - Describe the process for making good moral decisions is based on listening to reality - Explain the elements of the process are: Look for facts; imagine the possibilities; seek insight beyond your own; turn inward; expect God s help; name your decision. - Express that major moral decisions require deliberate, careful reflection and that life s situations are complex. B. A Matter of Conscience. The student will: - Define Conscience is the inner sense of right and wrong that enables a person to discern moral choices freely. Theology, Page 25

26 - Explain that as Christians we are obligated to form our conscience sincerely and that the Catholic church teaches us to follow our conscience always - Define/compare distorted consciences are: lax consciences, wrongly formed conscience and a legalistic conscience - Define guilt is either warranted or unwarranted. Explain how warranted guilt can be constructive and a healthy part of our growth C. Listen to Your Conscience. The student will: - Express that listening to your conscience means being open to the reality of an entire situation inner reactions, outer circumstances and the wisdom of others. Chapter 5 Wise Judgment: Good-Conscience-in-Action A. The Moral Virtues. The student will: - Explain hoe love is expressed through the moral virtues, which are acquired through practice and with God s help. - Define the cardinal virtues of wise judgment, justice, courage and wholeness are foundational to all other virtues. B. Good-Conscience-in-Action. The student will: - Define Wise Judgment as the ability to make decisions according to a wellformed conscience and the will to carry them out. - Know the 3 characteristics of this virtue are: seeing reality clearly, determining what is good and how to best accomplish it and knowing one s own feelings and motives. - Understand that Wise judgment is not limited to being practical and safe, it involves taking appropriate risks for the sake of the good. C. Seeing Reality Clearly. The student will: - Explain that to see reality clearly is to seek out and consider the information needed to make a good decision and weigh the consequences of each action - Describe how Wise Judgment is needed at both the public and personal levels. D. Sizing up the Good and the Best Way to It. The student will: - Explain how determining what is good means seeking out what is most beneficial for all concerned. - Distinguish how a person with wise judgment can evaluate the possible means towards a good and determine the best way to achieve it. Theology, Page 26

27 - Describe how sometimes people must choose between mutually exclusive goods of equal value and that Wise Judgment helps a person make the best choice in a difficult situation. E. Spotting Inner Blocks. The student will: - Demonstrate that Wise Judgment involves identifying our true motives and exposing our false motives, such as rationalizations. Chapter 6 Justice: Love s Minimum A. Living Justly. The student will: - Compare how Justice strives to ensure the well being of oneself and others and that injustice is the result of acts of omission more than of commission. - Explain why Justice is love s minimum requirement and that we cannot love and practice injustice at the same time B. The Grounds for Justice. The student will: - Explain that the demand for justice comes from the biblical insight that God s creation is good and has worth. - Describe why Justice occurs when rights are ensured or fulfilled. - Define Rights as what humans and the rest of creation must have to reach their end or purpose: to be what God created them to be. - Explain that human rights fall into 2 categories: survival and thrival rights. - Define how Justice is required in these dimensions: individual, social, distributive, and ecological. C. Individual Justice. The student will: - Define individual justice within the obligations that one person has to another because of a relationship they have by contract, deal, family ties, friendship, etc. D. Social Justice. The student will: - Define Social justice and how it obliges each person to contribute to the common good - Explain that the condition of the social whole enables all human beings to flourish and that this type of justice requires sacrifice. E. Distributive Justice. The student will: - Define Distributive justice and how it organizes social systems and society for the common good - Explain that Governments and businesses are obliged to create structures in which burdens and benefits are shared and distributed fairly among the people Theology, Page 27