Peter s Conversion. Explore Art Print 1. A Personal Transformation

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1 Explore Art Print 1 Art Print 1 shows Peter confirming his faith in Jesus and accepting the keys to the kingdom. How does God transform us and prepare us to share his message? Peter s Conversion Conversion is a change or transformation. It is an ongoing process that brings us closer to God. Peter s story shows how we are all called to conversion over and over again. Jesus asked his disciples, Who do people say the Son of Man is? They replied, Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or some other prophet. He asked, But who do you say that I am? Simon Peter answered, You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God. Jesus said, Good for you, Simon son of John. This truth did not come to you from any human person, but directly from my heavenly Father. You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and not even death will ever be able to overcome it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. adapted from Matthew 16:13 20 In this passage, Jesus gives Peter the authority to lead his Church. Peter accepts the call, but even after this, his faith is challenged. Each time, Jesus does something to show that he is forgiving and loving. Peter experiences conversion in each instance. Peter even goes so far as to deny Jesus before his death. He does this not once, but three times. Peter deeply regrets betraying Jesus. After Jesus rises from the dead and reveals himself to his disciples, he confronts Peter and asks him to prove his love and commitment. At this point, Peter is commissioned once again to spread the Good News of Salvation. At Pentecost, Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit, another conversion, and he begins to preach and baptize in the name of the Lord. Just like Peter, we may say that we believe and follow Jesus, but there are times that we fail. When we do, we know that God is calling us to do better. Each time we say yes, we are converted once again, and we grow closer to God. A Personal Transformation In a small group, discuss transformation stories you have seen in a movie or read in a book. Then on a separate sheet of paper, write about an experience that changed you in a positive way. What effect did this experience have on you? How did this change you? How might you share this experience with others? Grade 8 Unit 1 Session 1

2 Explore Art Print 2 Everyone Belongs Art Print 2 shows three friends hugging and forming a circle of friendship and love. How do you show God s love to your friends, family, and others? As members of the Church, we are part of a larger community. Our community is built on love for one another, just as the friendship depicted in the painting is. True friendship requires love, caring, and trust. These traits are all symbolized by the hug shown in the Art Print. As Catholics, our love and friendship with Jesus is part of what unifies our Church community. The Church is also unified through its desire for everyone to be part of God s kingdom. We are all built in the image of God. We are all given a mission by Jesus. Salvation is a gift for all of us. Because of these common beliefs, we strive to be inclusive, not exclusive, just as Jesus teaches. Everyone belongs. Without prejudice, the Apostles brought Jesus message to everyone. After Cornelius sought out Peter, the Holy Spirit descended upon Cornelius (Acts of the Apostles 10:44), showing that Salvation is a gift for us all. Jesus gift to us can also be seen through loving friendships and community. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20 Unity At Work We often worry about what is popular and who is part of the in crowd. How can we bring examples of inclusion and unity into our own lives? On a separate sheet of paper, list three ways you can be more inclusive over the next week. Our Catholic Character The Church teaches that human life and dignity must be protected at every age and in every stage of life. As part of this community, we are called to promote life and actively defend it. We do this by practicing love for one another, by promoting life in every situation, and by working for justice and equality. Grade 8 Unit 1 Session 2

3 Explore Art Print 3 Early Christian Martyrs Art Print 3 shows a group of Christian martyrs praying a final prayer before their martyrdom. What would you do to stand up for what you believe? Many of the early Christians worked hard and sacrificed to help spread the Gospel. The Apostles left their families and jobs to follow Jesus. After Christ s Death, Resurrection, and Ascension, they were persecuted for their beliefs. In some instances, they sacrificed more than just the comfort of their families, homes, and friends they sacrificed their lives. Saint Peter, Saint Paul, Saint Andrew, Saint Stephen, and others made the ultimate sacrifice for God. In today s world, people are still persecuted for their Christian faith in many countries. Archbishop Oscar Romero Archbishop Oscar Romero became Archbishop of San Salvador in He was an outspoken defender of people who were poor. During the brutal civil war in El Salvador, thousands of people were killed. Romero defended the Salvadoran people who were poor and oppressed by the government. Many priests and laypeople were working to help these people. The Church in El Salvador was under attack. Romero continued to speak out after the murder of his friend Jesuit Father Rutilio Grande and others, using his radio program to preach against the war and to highlight the abuse and injustice. On March 24, 1980, Romero was killed while celebrating Mass. A short time before his death, Romero said, If God accepts the sacrifice of my life, may my death be for the freedom of my people... A bishop will die, but the Church of God, which is the people, will never perish. Making Sacrifices Write about a person you know who is making sacrifices in his or her life to help others. How is this person sharing God s love and living the Gospel message? Grade 8 Unit 1 Session 3

4 Explore Art Print 4 Jeremiah and the New Covenant Art Print 4 shows children receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. How does Confirmation strengthen our bond with God? After the destruction of Solomon s Temple and being exiled to Babylon, the Jewish people broke their covenant with God, which was a promise to live their lives in such a way as to show the world that God was the one and only God, whom people should follow and worship. They were worshiping idols and had lost their faith. God told Jeremiah to preach about the New Covenant he would make with his people. This covenant was promised to anyone who would profess faith in the Messiah. I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I led them out of the land of Egypt. They broke that covenant. I will place my law within them, and write it upon their hearts; I will be their God, and they shall be my people. They will no longer teach their friends and relatives, Know the Lord! Everyone, from the least to the greatest, shall know me for I will forgive their sins. adapted from Jeremiah 31:31 34 At Confirmation, we affirm the New Covenant. One aspect of Confirmation is that the recipient has reached the age of reason. This is important because it means the recipient is willing to freely profess his or her faith. When we receive Confirmation, we choose to enter into the New Covenant with God and Jesus Christ. During Confirmation, a bishop lays hands on us and says, Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit. This deepens our faith and our bond with the Church. The Spirit imparts wisdom, strength, and grace upon us so that we can carry on the New Covenant and be active in our faith. Confirmation and the gifts we receive with it allow us to live as Jesus intends us to. The New Covenant and Forgiveness In the New Covenant, God offers forgiveness to all. The best way we can show gratitude for God s forgiveness is to pass that forgiveness on to the people in our lives. On a separate sheet of paper, draw a small circle. In the center of this circle, write God. Then draw a series of expanding circles. In each circle, write the name of someone close to you to whom you can extend God s forgiveness. Grade 8 Unit 1 Session 4

5 Explore Art Print 5 Art Print 5 shows a contemporary scene of a young Jesus learning about carpentry from Saint Joseph. What important lessons or skills have you learned from people in your own family? Lessons for Life Following the tradition of the time, Joseph took on Jesus as his apprentice carpenter. The word apprentice comes from a Latin word that means teach. Jesus mastered carpentry, but Joseph taught him much more than how to work with wood. It is more important to have a good name than to be rich. The rich and the poor have a common bond; the lord is the maker of them all. We are all part of the same community. Clever people may seem evil and get away with things, while innocent people sometimes suffer. Those who show humility and fear of the Lord will have riches and honor. Those who do wrong will encounter obstacles; those who follow God will avoid them. Train the young in the way they should go; even when they are old, they will follow the right path. adapted from Proverbs 22:1 6 We might imagine Jesus early life as a kind of Ordinary Time. It was a time for him to grow by reading Scripture and spending time in prayer. The idea that a good name has more value than riches shows the importance of belonging to a loving and trusting community. That kind of community begins with family. The love of family and the Jewish teachings gave Jesus a foundation based on God s love. Joseph was a role model for how to be a God-centered father. Mary was the ultimate model of holiness and obedience to God. They guided Jesus to love God and treat others with respect knowing all the while that Jesus was the Son of God. Circles of Learning On a separate sheet of paper, write the name of someone who has taught you how to do something. Circle the person s name. Draw a second larger circle around the name. In that circle write practical skills you learned from this person, such as how to ride a bike, how to bake a cake, how to steer a boat, or how to knit a scarf. Then draw another circle around those skills, leaving space to write. In this third circle, write the things you learned that help you in your relationships with others as part of a community, such as respect, honesty, faith, kindness, and love. Grade 8 Unit 1 Session 5

6 Explore Art Print 6 Understanding the Trinity Art Print 6 shows the three Persons of the Trinity at a table surrounded by others. How do your relationships with family and friends reflect the love of the Trinity? The doctrine, or Church teaching, of the Trinity came out of the experience of the early Christians. The Apostles encountered Jesus and recognized him as the Messiah, the living Son of God. They also received the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. From these experiences came the faith that the Apostles proclaimed and that we live today. The early ecumenical councils tried to answer some of the central questions people had about the Trinity. At the second ecumenical council at Constantinople, it was declared that Jesus Christ was begotten, not made, and equal in every way with the Father. The council also declared that the Holy Spirit is God and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. The purpose of these councils and Church doctrine is for us to more fully love and adore God as Three Persons who relate to one another. The Trinity is the central mystery of the Catholic faith. This mystery is not completely understood but leads us to ever greater wonder as we meditate on who God is for us. The Three Persons of the Trinity are distinct in their relationships to one another. They relate to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Father is the one from whom everything comes into being. The Son is through whom everything comes into being. The Holy Spirit is in whom everything comes into being. As Catholics we live in relationship with the Trinity. We believe that we are loved by God the Father who created us, by God the Son who saved us, and by God the Holy Spirit who inspires us and is our helper and guide. The love and grace that we receive from our relationship with the Trinity is what we share with one another in community. Praying to the Trinity Everything we are and have is a gift from the Trinity. God asks that we become as generous in sharing his love with one another as God is in sharing his love with us. On a separate sheet of paper, write a prayer to the Trinity asking for guidance in sharing the love we receive with our friends, family, and community. Grade 8 Unit 2 Session 6

7 Explore Art Print 7 Art Print 7 shows a monstrance, which is used to display the Blessed Sacrament for adoration. How does receiving Eucharist and praying before the Blessed Sacrament draw you closer to God? A Restless Heart It is easy to become distracted and to lose focus on true spiritual nourishment. Often times, we can blur the line between what we need and what we covet. When we covet something, we seek to control or possess it. We can become too attached to possessions or achievements. We can continually ask ourselves if our attachments keep us from being free to love God and one another. Our attachments often conceal God s plan for us. Prayer, service to others, and sharing God s Word provide us spiritual nourishment and help make us free to love one another and be open to God s plan for us. For you are called to freedom, brothers. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for yourself; rather, serve one another through love. adapted from Galatians 5:13 Much as we struggle between spiritual nourishment and material attachment, so did Saint Augustine. He was raised as a Christian, but he later veered off the Christian path and spoke out against Christianity. Over time, he grew restless and began to rethink his beliefs. He was later baptized when he was 33. Shortly after that he gave his possessions to those who were poor and began a life of poverty and prayer. He was ordained a priest and made bishop of Hippo five years later. His most famous quotation describes his faith experience and still applies to us today: You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in you. Finding Peace On a separate sheet of paper, write Saint Augustine s quotation and make a T-chart with the headings Restless and Peaceful. In the first column, write things that make you restless. In the second column, write things you can do to find peace. Past Meets Present Pope Gregory VII declared that the bread and wine were transformed into the Real Presence of Christ. Following his teaching, processions of the Blessed Sacrament became popular. People began to practice adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. During the Protestant Reformation, the Council of Trent confirmed the importance of the Blessed Sacrament for adoration. In today s Church, we continue the practice of eucharistic adoration. Devotion to the Eucharist is encouraged by religious orders like the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and during national and international eucharistic congresses. Grade 8 Unit 2 Session 7

8 Explore Art Print 8 Finding Treasure Art Print 8 shows peasants doing their daily work in a field. What can you learn about serving the Kingdom of God from their hard work? In the chaos of the Dark Ages, people living around monasteries witnessed the devotion the monks showed to living in community and to leading simple lives in the name of God. The monks found God in prayer, work, and service. This and their vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience made them role models for how to build the Kingdom of God. Those called to monasticism are still role models today. Although our modern society differs greatly from the lifestyle people lived many centuries ago, the core values of monastic life are certainly relevant. As Catholics, we don t see work as drudgery or punishment. Rather, work is a way in which we participate in creation. When we forget this, God s Word is there to remind us of the joys we can find in a simple life. Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroy, nor thieves break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be. Matthew 6:19 21 It s easy to forget the things that we are called to focus on God, family, community, and service to others. God calls us to surround ourselves with people who have the same values and ideals that Jesus taught us and to live out those values in service to others. The treasures we receive when we do are far more meaningful than money or possessions. Advertise for Others Design a magazine or Web advertisement encouraging young people to join a community project to serve others. Be conscious of the impact of the images you choose for your advertisement. These can be more powerful than the words themselves. Grade 8 Unit 2 Session 8

9 Explore Art Print 9 What Next? Art Print 9 shows the disciples and Mary watching as Christ ascends into Heaven. How might you have felt if you had witnessed Christ s Ascension? After the Resurrection and Ascension, Jesus mission was passed on to the Apostles. They had spent time with Jesus and knew what they were called to do. They also knew that their work would be a challenge. The Apostles probably took comfort in recalling many of Christ s teachings about sharing the Good News. They knew that they could not sit back and do nothing. They had been called to continue his work. The Apostles had to shine their lights and take God s message to the world. The Salvation through Jesus life, Death, and Resurrection was news too good to keep to themselves, so Jesus said to them: You will receive power when the holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8 At Pentecost, the Apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit strengthened them to do their work. The Holy Spirit is active in our lives too and leads us to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and the disciples. The Holy Spirit guides us to live faith-filled lives and spread the Good News through our actions and words. When we experience the power of God s love, we can t wait to share it with the world. Shine Your Light How can you shine your light to let others know that God loves and cares for them? Complete the calendar with one action you can take each day to share God s love. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Grade 8 Unit 2 Session 9

10 Explore Art Print 10 The Importance of Rituals Art Print 10 shows a Nativity scene from the Church of St. John the Baptist in Ein Kerem, Israel. What role do Nativity scenes play in your family or parish Christmas celebrations? Churches display Nativity scenes during the Christmas season. Some churches even act out live Nativity scenes during Advent and Christmas. Nativity scenes can help us feel connected to one another and build a sense of community. These kinds of rituals help to bring our faith alive. Our celebration of Mass is a ritual celebration. The community celebration of the Eucharist is the most significant ritual of our faith. We celebrate in remembrance of the gift of Salvation that we receive through Jesus. It connects us as members of the Body of Christ. Jesus instituted the Eucharist as a memorial of his life, Death, and Resurrection. For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus, on the night he was handed over, took bread, and after he had given thanks, broke it and said, This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me. In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:23 26 Saint Paul describes why Jesus is handing this ritual on to the early Christians. Paul explains that Jesus asks us to repeat his actions at the Last Supper in his memory. As Catholics, we put our faith in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist and respect the New Covenant. We know that each time we take part in this ritual and receive Jesus Christ, we are strengthened to go out and be his disciples. This ritual keeps us closely connected to our Lord and to one another. Family Rituals On a separate sheet of paper, write a script for a podcast interview about a family ritual or custom that is important to you. Brainstorm a list of questions you might ask a family member about his or her faith. Describe the ritual and explain how it keeps your family connected. Grade 8 Unit 2 Session 10

11 Explore Art Print 11 Worthy Fruits of Penance Art Print 11 shows Saint Francis of Assisi opening his whole self to the love of God so he might become more like Christ. In what ways do you open yourself to receive God s love? Saint Francis lived his life according to the example of Jesus and the Apostles given in the Gospels. Jesus taught the Apostles to walk in poverty and simplicity. Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. Matthew 10:9 Saint Francis told followers of Jesus to produce worthy fruits of penance. For Francis, penance meant living your life so that your thoughts and deeds would match those of Christ. Penance meant loving Jesus completely and totally. You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37 Like many people of his time, Francis was afraid of people with leprosy. But by following the example of Jesus, Francis showed mercy and compassion to those with leprosy. His love for Jesus inspired Francis to love people who were outcasts. This love marked Francis as a true follower of Jesus and resulted in the gift of the stigmata. Marked by Jesus People recognize Francis s holiness not only because of the marks on his body, but also because he lived and loved as Jesus taught. Think about how Jesus inspires you. On a separate sheet of paper, describe how you share Jesus love and how others know you are marked as a follower of Jesus. Grade 8 Unit 3 Session 11 Janet McDonnell.

12 Explore Art Print 12 The Light of Christ Art Print 12 shows the majestic architecture of St. Patrick s Cathedral. How does the image of the cathedral contrast with the busyness of city life? Entering a cathedral, in many ways, can be symbolic of our personal faith journey. As you enter the door, you step into a dark foyer. The dark can be disconcerting, but the next step floods you with light as you fully enter the cathedral. In this light, you see things differently, just as we do in our spiritual transformation. We see things differently through our life with God and the Church. We see things differently through the light of Christ. For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light, for light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth. Ephesians 5:8 9 In 2008, Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Mass at St. Patrick s and asked people to look to the spires of the cathedral as a symbol of the spiritual yearning of the human heart. The spires seem to reach up toward the light of Heaven. As Christians, we are given the light of Christ at Baptism. As we continue to receive the sacraments and travel on our faith journey, our light burns brighter and brighter. Your Personal Cathedral On a separate sheet of paper, draw a space that can become sacred to you, your personal cathedral. This could be your bedroom, a gym, or maybe your backyard. Along with the drawing, write a paragraph explaining why this location is sacred to you. Past Meets Present The Latin word for cathedral means chair. One meaning is quite literal, in that a cathedral houses the actual seat of the presiding bishop and serves as the central church of the diocese. There are other interpretations, however. From his chair, the bishop gathers the people, as a shepherd brings together his flock. The cathedral is where we come together in community. It is where we gather to practice our faith, hear the Word of God proclaimed, and receive the Body and Blood of our Lord in the Eucharist. Believers are drawn to cathedrals in times of peril or jubilant celebration. We, the Church, are at our strongest when we unite in community, celebrate our shared faith, and experience Holy Communion with God and one another. Grade 8 Unit 3 Session 12

13 Explore Art Print 13 Friendship and Nourishment Art Print 13 shows Jesus sharing the first Eucharist with his disciples at the Last Supper. What does the Last Supper show us about community? Jesus shared a very special meal with the disciples at the Last Supper. During this meal, he shared a gift that continues to nourish us today. Jesus gave us the Eucharist his Body and Blood as a memorial of his life, Death, and Resurrection. Jesus, by giving us the Eucharist during the Last Supper, instituted the New Covenant between God and humans. Each time we celebrate the Eucharist, Christ is present with us. Through the Eucharist, we strengthen our bond with Christ and with one another. He said to them, I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, for, I tell you, I shall not eat it [again] until there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God. Luke 22:15 In the Scripture above, Jesus describes how he wanted to share this meal with friends while forewarning his Crucifixion. He speaks to the desire to build a community with these friends, a model for the Church today. Jesus relationship with the disciples is emblematic of our relationship with fellow members of the Church and our relationship with God the New Covenant. Dining with God Think back to an important meal that you remember. Who was present at the table? What were you celebrating? How was God present? How did you feel? Write a paragraph describing this meal. Include as many details as you remember. Grade 8 Unit 3 Session 13

14 Explore Art Print 14 The Call to Intercessory Prayer Art Print 14 shows a priest praying at the burial of victims of the Black Plague and Saint Sebastian appealing to God for help. How can you show support to those who are sick or suffering? Part of being members of the Church is answering the call to serve others. This often makes us think about physical needs such as feeding those who are hungry and nursing those who are sick. But we also are called to serve one another spiritually. Since its dawn, the Catholic Church has served both our physical and spiritual needs. In the time of the Black Death, people like Saint Catherine of Siena sought to comfort those who were sick and those needing spiritual healing. Today the Catholic Church still practices these principles. Catholic Relief Services, a worldwide organization, upholds the teachings of Christ by protecting the dignity of human life and embodying Catholic social and moral teaching. Today, as members of the Church, we also do our part to serve the spiritual needs of one another. At Mass, in the Prayer of the Faithful, we pray for others, especially for those who are sick or suffering. These are called prayers of intercession. We see examples of Intercessory prayer in the Old Testament with Moses and Abraham. Through our prayers, we hope to bring the compassion and healing of God to the whole human family. Learning from the Past Find a Scripture passage in which someone engages in intercessory prayer. On a separate sheet of paper, write the passage and then illuminate the page. On the back, write a prayer of intercession for someone you know who needs help. Take turns reading these aloud and join together your prayers. Grade 8 Unit 3 Session 14 Inguna Irbe.

15 Explore Art Print 15 A Look at Forgiveness Art Print 15 shows a violent, bloody battle during the Crusades, for which the modern Church has asked forgiveness. How do you feel when you have made a mistake and have asked someone for forgiveness? When we hurt someone, we ask for forgiveness. The person we hurt may accept our apology and forgive us, but we still might feel uncomfortable about what we have done. We might feel like there s a little bit of that mistake lingering inside us, making us feel uneasy. We cannot simply forget our actions. This is because the consequences of our sin can linger. Imagine tossing a rock into water. After the initial splash, there are countless ripples flowing from the original point. We can apologize and be forgiven for our actions, but the ripples of our actions are still there and need to be tended to. For true forgiveness, we must seek the grace of God. This is done through the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation. God s love and grace are always available to us through this wonderful sacrament. God wipes the slate clean and offers us a fresh start as long as we express contrition and promise not to repeat our mistakes. When we stumble, God is there to help us up. But if the wicked man turns away from all the sins he has committed, if he keeps all my statutes and does what is just and right, he shall surely live. He shall not die! Ezekiel 18:21 Understanding Forgiveness Think about a time when you were hurt by someone and were eventually able to forgive that person. Did you notice a difference in that person or in the relationship once he or she was forgiven? Did you notice a difference in yourself? Describe the positive impact forgiveness had. Grade 8 Unit 3 Session 15

16 Explore Art Print 16 God Creates and Restores Art Print 16 shows God reaching out with love to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. What can we learn about our relationship with God from their story? In the garden, Adam and Eve took advantage of their God-given free will by eating the fruit from the forbidden tree. God never abandoned Adam and Eve, even when they fell into temptation. God reached out to them with love and grace. They made a mistake, but God promised to heal and restore them. God s promise was fulfilled through the life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus, and this gift is there for us as well. If we say, We are without sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we acknowledge our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing. If we say, We have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 1 John 1:8 10 Sometimes, like Adam and Eve, we give into temptation. Whether we cheat on a test, tell a lie, or say something mean about another person, we are disobeying God s will. These actions pry us away from God and make us less whole. By recognizing our sins, we welcome God into our hearts. This allows us to foster a meaningful relationship with him. Through this relationship, God restores us. His grace allows us to become whole again. By choosing to open our hearts to God, with our Godgiven free will, we open ourselves to God s restoration and gift of Salvation. Restoration Project On a separate sheet of paper, write a paragraph describing how you can restore something old or in need of repair and make it brand new. Compares this restoration project to God s restoration of us. Think about how this is a gift and how this makes us whole. Grade 8 Unit 4 Session 16 Thinkstock.

17 Explore Art Print 17 The Greatest Commandment Art Print 17 shows a Samaritan stopping to help a Jewish traveler who had been robbed and beaten on the road to Jerusalem. How does God call us to respond to people in need? The parable of the Good Samaritan exemplifies living a moral life and speaks to the core of Jesus teachings, the greatest commandment love thy neighbor. Jesus replied, A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back. Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers victim? He answered, The one who treated him with mercy. Jesus said to him, Go and do likewise. Luke 10:30 37 Samaritans and Jews were enemies at the time. This parable shows that help comes from unexpected sources. There is goodness in all of us, even our perceived enemies. When others pass by, we can be the one to stop to help, even when it is difficult and unexpected. Like the Good Samaritan, we can be models of true discipleship. My Good Samaritan On a separate sheet of paper, describe a person in your life or in society whom you consider a good Samaritan. How is this person making a difference? Why do you admire this person? What lessons can you learn from him or her and how can you apply these to your own life? Our Catholic Character Jesus ministry is the basis of Catholic Social Teaching. As Catholics, we are called to build a just society and to work for common good. The social-teaching theme of Rights and Responsibilities calls us to protect the rights and dignity of all people. Every person has a right to life and a right to those things required for human decency. Our responsibility is to one another, our families, our communities, and the world. We are asked to follow Jeremiah 29:7: Seek the welfare of the city to which I have exiled you; pray for it to the Lord, for upon its welfare your own depends. Grade 8 Unit 4 Session 17

18 Explore Art Print 18 Art Print 18 shows Saint Ignatius of Loyola, who sought to share the gift of God with everyone. What is a God-given gift that you could not wait to share with others? The Transformation of Ignatius of Loyola While recuperating from battle wounds, Ignatius found peace through God and Jesus. His focus changed from a life centered on his own desires to one centered on God. Ignatius realized that he had been given the greatest gift of all friendship with God. He gave up his old life and dedicated himself to becoming a priest and sharing the gospel message. His message focused on finding God in all things and that all of us can develop a friendship with God. This beautiful prayer sums up what Saint Ignatius learned and what he wanted others to know. Suscipe Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will. All I have and call my own. You have given all to me. To you, Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace. That is enough for me. When we let go of focusing on possessions, anger, disappointments, and other disordered attachments, we open ourselves to God s love. We gain so much more than what we have given up. We are free to experience the gift of friendship with God that Ignatius wanted to share with the world. He encouraged others to open their hearts so that they could have a deep, loving relationship with God and find God in all things. God longs to be friends with us and to love all of us just as we are. From this love, we find truth, generosity, and kindness. When we are given great gifts such as these, we can t help but share them. Finding God in All Things Ignatius shared the greatest gift he ever received, his friendship with God. Ignatius also shared the insight that we find God in all things. Take a few moments to think about ways you find God in your life. Then write a letter to a family member, describing the greatness of your friendship with God and how God is found in all things. Use some examples from the list you made earlier. Grade 8 Unit 4 Session 18

19 Explore Art Print 19 Answering the Call We all have the same physical needs, wealthy or poor, no matter what our backgrounds may be. We all have the same spiritual needs as well. As Catholics we are called to put love into action and address the physical and spiritual needs of one another. The Church teaches us to follow the Gospels and share God s love through charitable acts and by working for social justice. Art Print 19 shows people of different backgrounds gathering for the same need. What can you do to help others with their physical and spiritual needs? Charitable acts are works of mercy. Through works of mercy, we respond to situations such as hunger and illness. When we work for social justice, we try to find solutions for these problems. The Corporal Works of Mercy are ways we can help meet the basic physical needs of all people, such as feeding those who are hungry and visiting those who are imprisoned. The Gospel of Matthew forms the foundation for the Corporal Works of Mercy. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me. Then the righteous will answer him and say, Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you? And the king will say to them in reply, Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me. Matthew 25:35 40 These works are based on our faith and fueled by our conscience. These acts help us live a true life of discipleship and help us build God s kingdom. Mercy Soup On a separate sheet of paper, draw an outline of a large pot. Then on strips of paper, write down works of mercy that you can do to help build God s kingdom and add them to the pot to make mercy soup. Grade 8 Unit 4 Session 19 Janet McDonnell.

20 Explore Art Print 20 Art Print 20 shows light shining on Judas as he betrays Jesus with a kiss. How does sin affect our relationship with God and others? Shedding Light on Sin In our daily lives, sometimes we fall into sin. We can focus on ourselves, putting our personal wants ahead of others. Our selfishness can sometimes lead to personal sin, which results from our choices. Personal sins can be things such as pride, greed, jealousy, gossip, and lying. These sins separate us from God. Social sins hurt relationships and damage human dignity. They do this by maintaining and prolonging structures that allow sinful practices to continue, such as sexism, racism, and oppression of the poor. Sins that deny the rights of any human being are social sins. God calls us to shine a light on these social injustices and expose social sins. Rather let justice surge like waters, and righteousness like an unfailing stream. Amos 5:24 We can pray to develop an awareness of sin and to learn to make choices that lead us to the light of Christ instead of into the darkness of sin. Like the light of Christ in the Art Print, we must shine a light on sin and injustice. Turning Dark to Light Grade 8 Unit 4 Session 20 Hemera/Thinkstock. Think about problems in today s world that are examples of social sin. On a separate sheet of paper, make a T-chart with the headings Social Sins and Community Awareness. Write four social sins in the first column. Then write in the second column an action you can take to help inform yourself and others about the social sin in the first column.

21 Explore Art Print 21 Art Print 21 shows a session of the Second Vatican Council, which in part discussed how to spread the Gospel in ways that modern people would understand. How can we adapt the ways we spread the Good News in our time, using current technology? Adapting to Change The first computers and cell phones were clunky, large, and not very user friendly. The first generation of video games was so simple that it is hard to believe they were once considered cutting edge. Technology advances and adapts, but at its core these pieces serve the same purpose. Cell phones still keep us connected to friends and family. Video games still entertain us. They may become more sophisticated as they change with time, but at their core, they re still the same. The same might be said about the Church. The message and mission of the Church is timeless, but how that message is delivered can adapt with the times. Pope John XXIII recognized this, and in 1962 he called for the Second Vatican Council, hoping that it would bring fresh air into the Church. The council brought together over 2,000 bishops from all over the world. These holy and well-educated men found they had to study to truly contribute to the decisions of the council. Theologians and scholars instructed the bishops, who in turn brought these experts and advisers into the sessions. They often studied and met for further discussion after the meetings. Vatican II was an example of how we are all lifelong learners, and how faith and learning complement each other. The bishops were humble and understood the importance of modernizing the presentation of the Church s message. Instruct the wise, and they become still wiser; teach the just, and they advance in learning. Proverbs 9:9-10 Like the bishops at Vatican II, the wisdom we gain from studying about the world and the Church can help us better understand our role as disciples. We can pair our knowledge with state-of-the-art technologies to spread the Gospel message in new, effective ways. Spreading the Good News On a separate sheet of paper, write a list of ways you communicate with friends, family, and the world. For each item on the list, record a way you can use that same type of communication to share God s message. Grade 8 Unit 5 Session 21

22 Explore Art Print 22 Progress and Injustice Art Print 22 shows women and children working in a cotton mill during the Industrial Revolution. How can we be aware of and show concern for the rights of all people? Sometimes when the world changes, new and different problems arise. Advances in manufacturing and farming during the Industrial Revolution greatly influenced the way people lived and worked. Today, advances in technology have changed the way we work, interact, and communicate. These changes have both positive and negative effects. Despite increased communication, it is easy to forget that there are still people all over the world who experience the injustices of child labor, unfair wages, unjust governments, and poor working conditions. The Church recognizes these problems and calls us to work for social justice. Catholic Social Teaching calls on us to defend the dignity and rights of workers. We are also called to practice solidarity and to live as one human family, no matter how different we may be from others. To answer this call, we can shine a light on social injustices in our communities and in the world. This call began in the early Church when Saint Paul spoke of the Church united as the Body of Christ. If [one] part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part is honored, all the parts share its joy. 1 Corinthians 12:26 Personal Experience On a separate sheet of paper, write a personal narrative as if you were working in unfair working conditions in a factory during the Industrial Revolution. Put yourself in the shoes of an underpaid worker who is treated poorly. Describe your surroundings. What is unfair about this job? What can you do to defend your rights? Past Meets Present Jesus gave us the Great Commandment to love God and our neighbor. The Catholic Social Teaching principle of Solidarity reminds us of this and teaches that we have a responsibility to help all people. In Sollicitudo Rei Socialis (The Concern of the Church for the Social Order), Pope John Paul II emphasized solidarity as a virtue because we are all really responsible for all. Solidarity is part of our call to holiness. In Deus Caritas Est (God is Love), Pope Benedict XVI wrote that love of neighbor is a path that leads to the encounter with God, and that closing our eyes to our neighbor also blinds us to God. Grade 8 Unit 5 Session 22

23 Explore Art Print 23 God s Call, Our Response Art Print 23 shows an ordination ceremony in a cathedral in Lyon, France. Priests respond to a special call from God to serve the Church. How do you think God is calling you to serve? Our relationship with God requires communication. Through prayer, learning, and participation in our parish community, we become more aware of God s presence in our lives. We begin to understand what he is calling us to do. We are all called to live a life of holiness, but a life of holiness looks different for each of us. The word vocation may bring to mind images of priests, deacons, women religious, or bishops, but each of us has a vocation. A vocation is the call to be the person God wants us to be. Our vocation is the way we serve the Church and the Kingdom of God. To fully achieve the best version of ourselves, we rely on the help of God and the Church. During ordination, men answer God s call in the midst of community. Much like them, God calls us individually, but we are answering that call through the unity of the Church. Each of us has a universal call to holiness, an experience shared by all Church members. For as in one body we have many parts, and all the parts do not have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ and individually parts of one another. Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them; if our gift is to share God message, we should do it in faith; if our gift is in ministry, we should serve; if it is to teach, we should teach. adapted from Romans 12:4 7 Interview People of Your Parish On a separate sheet of paper, write five interview questions you could ask other members of your parish. Focus the questions on vocations such as the priesthood, marriage, or another parish ministry. After you interview several parishioners, write a brief summary of your interviews, detailing your thoughts about their responses. What do the responses show you about your own call to service? Grade 8 Unit 5 Session 23 istockphoto.com.

24 Explore Art Print 24 Gifted by God Art Print 24 shows a sculpture of a fourteen-year-old ballet dancer. What gifts and talents do you have that bring you joy? We all have unique talents, and each of them is a gift from God. Maybe you are musical or good with words. Perhaps you make others laugh or are inventive. We practice and hone our talents because they give us joy. God desires for us to find, nurture, and share our gifts and passions to serve his kingdom. As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God s varied grace. 1 Peter: 4:10 Through our unique talents, God fulfills his desires for the world. He calls us to use our gifts to serve others and to serve the Body of Christ. By doing so, we bring glory to God. Doing this might be as simple as singing in your parish choir. It might involve making a commitment to teach young children each summer during Vacation Bible School. It might mean being a caring and trustworthy friend but what it really means is do what brings us joy. God wants us to find joy by being ourselves, not by transforming into a false ideal. This means nourishing the talents that give us joy. By doing this, we are truly living as members of God s kingdom. Living Sculptures Think of your own specific, singular talent that you can share for the good of God s creation. In small groups, take turns posing as a living sculpture in a position that represents your talent. While you are posing, have a member of your group photograph your pose. Then print the photos and make a collage of your group. Display the collages around the classroom. Grade 8 Unit 5 Session 24 A-Digit/iStockPhoto.com.

25 Explore Art Print 25 What Next? After Jesus Death and Resurrection, the Apostles knew their mission was to spread the message of Salvation. At his Ascension, Jesus promised they would receive power to be witnesses from the Holy Spirit. They gathered together and prayed for direction. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon them. Art Print 25 shows the Holy Spirit descending on Mary and the Apostles. When have you felt the strength and inspiration of the Holy Spirit? Those who were present were amazed but also confused. Peter explained that God s predictions about Salvation had come true. The Spirit of God had come to them as promised. He instructed them to go out and teach that Salvation was available to all who believed in Jesus. They worked together as a faith community to build the Church in Jerusalem, and the message began to spread. Awe came upon everyone, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common. They would sell their property and possessions and divide among them all according to each one s need. Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes. They ate their meals with joy and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying favor with all people. And every day the Lord added to their number. adapted from Acts of the Apostles 2:43 47 We are also called to share the message of God s love and Salvation. We are all part of the Body of Christ. Our community is like the community of the early Church. It gives us the strength, courage, and wisdom to follow in the footsteps of the Apostles. Recognizing the Holy Spirit Think about a time when you felt frustrated, exhausted, or overwhelmed. How did you overcome those feelings? How did you get back on track? The Holy Spirit, though we may not always be aware of it, gives us strength and inspiration when we need it. Write a letter to a friend describing a situation like this. Describe how you felt after the experience. Describe how you think the Holy Spirit guided you. Grade 8 Unit 5 Session 25 Yoshi Miyake.