finding god: grade 1, parish, teacher's edition

Our Response to God’s Gifts

Parish C atec his t Guide

GRADE

1GRADE

1

Saint Francis of Assisi

Francis was born in the town of Assisi, Italy, in 1182. At the age of 20, he devoted himself to a life of prayer. Three years later, Francis embraced a life of poverty and dedicated himself to God. Francis was a lover of nature. He took long walks through the countryside and studied its plants and trees. Francis felt that all plants and animals were part of God’s kingdom. Saint Francis is the founder of the Franciscan religious order. He is the patron saint of those who care for plants and animals.

U n i t 1

God, Our Creator and FatherUnit 1 focuses on God as our Creator and Father, on his creation, and on learning to care for his world. In this unit children will learn the following concepts.

SeSSion 1 God Makes EverythingGod looked at and loved everything he had made and proclaimed it very good. All the heavens and the earth proclaim the presence of God who makes us, loves us, and wants us to be happy. We thank God for all he gives us by sharing with one another.

SeSSion 2 God Cares for UsThe Bible tells us that we are created in God’s image and likeness. We are most like God when we act in service to him, as expressed in the love and service we give to others.

SeSSion 3 God Is Our FatherWe know of God’s love for us as our Father through his Son, Jesus. Jesus tells us that God is his Father and our loving Father too. We can be happy when we follow what God teaches us about himself and about Jesus. In praying to God, we address him as our Father.

SeSSion 4 God Gives Us PeaceThe Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Trinity, helps us know we are loved. The Holy Spirit helps us live in harmony with one another. The Glory Be to the Father, also known as the Doxology, is introduced as our prayer of praise to the Trinity.

SeSSion 5 Celebrating Ordinary TimeChildren learn the meaning of Ordinary Time, why we celebrate it, and explore how Ordinary Time is celebrated in our Church.

CateChiSt PreParation

Un IT 1 1a

U n i t S a i n t

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PDF Signoff: Production _______ Design _______ Editorial _______

together as One Parish

Religious Education with the Parochial School

To celebrate a new year of faith formation, add an insert to your parish bulletin that introduces the religious education team with catechists’ names from both the religious education program and the parochial school. Introduce the list by sharing common goals for children who participate in the program.

Prayer in Unit 1

In each session of Unit 1, establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The Sign of the Cross and the Glory Be to the Father are introduced, and children learn how to fold their hands for prayer as a way of honoring God. A short, guided reflection is used to help children pray in silence. Each prayer provides an opportunity for silent meditation.

Catholic Social Teaching in Unit 1In the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29–37), Jesus makes clear our responsibility to care for those in need. The Church articulates this responsibility in Catholic Social Teaching. Following are the themes of Catholic Social Teaching integrated into this unit.

Call to Family, Community, and Participation Participation in family and community is central to our faith and to a healthy society. As the central social institution, the family must be supported and strengthened. From this foundation people participate in society, promoting the well-being of all.

Care for God’s Creation God is Creator of all people and things, and he wants us to enjoy his creation. We have a responsibility to care for all things God makes. We are called to make moral and ethical choices that protect the ecological balance of creation both locally and worldwide.

Life and Dignity of the Human Person The Catholic Church teaches us that all human life is sacred and that all people must be treated with dignity. As Catholics we strive to respect and value people more than material goods. We ask whether our actions as a society respect or threaten the life and dignity of the human person. Our belief in human life and dignity is the foundation of our moral vision.

Solidarity Solidarity is the attitude that leads Christians to share spiritual and material goods. Solidarity unites rich and poor, weak and strong, and helps build a society that recognizes that we live in an interdependent world.

Literature OpportunityWhere the Forest Meets the Sea by Jeannie BakerYou might wish to read aloud this story about a boy who visits the rain forest and wonders how long it will remain.

God’s Creation

1b www.findinggod.com

CateChiSt PreParation

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3-Minute Retreat

Before you prepare the session, pause and be still. Take three deep breaths and be aware of the loving presence of God, who is with you on this journey.

Genesis 1:31

God looked at everything he had made, and he found it

very good.

ReflectionWe begin this year mindful of the importance of children understanding how much God loves them. The first chapter of Genesis is all about beginnings. God created light from darkness, brought order out of chaos, separated land from water, and finally created the human family. God’s love surrounds us today with the same intensity as it did on that first day of creation.

QuestionHow ready am I to see the presence of God in children?

Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 1Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of the session content.

ScriptureGenesis 1:31 tells that God examines all he has created on the sixth day.

Psalm 96:11–13 invites all creation to praise God.

TraditionWe begin with the celebration of creation as God’s gift to the human family. In his poem “Canticle of the Sun,” Saint Francis of Assisi celebrates the goodness of God’s creation. Francis praises the sun that gives us radiant light, the moon and the stars, which are “bright, precious, and fair.” Saint Francis also praises the wind, air, water, and fire. He finally praises the earth, “who governs and sustains us, pro-ducing varied fruits with colored flowers and herbs.” The earth and its abundance show God’s personal concern for our welfare and the welfare of the world.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching theme is Care for God’s Creation. See page 1b for an explanation of this theme.

Window on the CatechismCCC 287–289 discusses how the Scriptures help us understand the role of God in creation.

General Directory for CatechesisCatechesis that is centered on Jesus leads us to understand the Father of all creation. This is dis-cussed in GDC 100.

Prayer

Speak to your heavenly Father, using these words or your own words.

God, Father and Creator of all that is, help me be

a person who reflects your goodness to others,

especially to those with whom you call me to

share my faith in this session.

Un IT 1 • Session 1 1c

CateChist PreParation

session 1

God Makes Everything

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Before This Session▶▶ Prepare a prayer center. See page EC-2 for ideas.

▶▶ Establish group rules and procedures. See page EC-2–EC-3 for ideas.

▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Genesis 1:31 and Psalm 96:11–13. Place the open Bible in your prayer center.

▶▶ Display the Finding God poster Sign of the Cross.

▶▶ Read the Guide for this session, choose any additional If Time Allows activities that you might have time to complete, and gather the listed materials.

StepS ApproximAte time

engage

Unit Saint: Saint Francis of Assisi PAgeS 1–2

God Makes Everything PAge 3

10 minutes

explore

God Is the Creator PAge 4

Take Care of Our World PAge 5

Art Print: Saint Vincent de Paul Art Print And Print BAck

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: Sign of the cross PAge 6

God Makes Good Things PAge 7

15–20 minutes

respond

Living My Faith PAge 8 5–10 minutes

MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 1: Saint Vincent de Paul and Children’s Book page 213

▶▶ CD player

▶▶ CD 2, Track 3: “God Is So Good” (1:11)

▶▶ Fresh flowers or a potted plant

▶▶ Finding God poster: Sign of the Cross

▶▶ Art supplies

if time allows▶▶ Newspapers and magazines that contain pictures or photos of beau-tiful things from nature (page 3)

▶▶ Session 1 BLM, T-277 (page 4)

▶▶ Art supplies (pages 4–7)

▶▶ DVD player, DVD: Horton Hears a Who (page 4)

▶▶ Recycling bins, craft sticks, yarn (page 5)

▶▶ Note cards, poster board (page 7)

▶▶ Session 1 Assessment, www.findinggod.com (page 8)

SeSSion 1 God Makes Everythingsession theme: God is the Creator and loves all that he creates.

Prayer in Session 1

In this first session, begin to establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The short open-ing prayer of petition and the closing prayer of gratitude invite children to reflect on the beauty of God’s creation. Each prayer provides an opportunity for children to speak to God from their hearts. In the Reflect step of this session, the Sign of the Cross is introduced. Take time to review the words and the gestures.

1d www.findinggod.com

catechiSt PreParation

one-Hour Session planner

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Choose one approach to open the unit. 5-Minute Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . belowOptional Unit Opener . . . . . . . next page

5-Minute aPProachchildren’s Pages

BeginWarmly greet and welcome children as they arrive. Introduce yourself. Share why your faith is important to you and why you are excited about a new year of faith formation. Say: I’m so glad you’re here. This year we’re going to learn new and exciting things together.

Distribute the Children’s Books. Then say: May this be a year of finding God in all things.

Have children open their books to page 1. Read aloud the unit title. Say: The sessions in our first unit will help us understand that God our Father makes everything, and when we pray to God, he brings us peace.

Introduce the SaintRead aloud the saint’s name and the sentence below it. Then ask children to turn to page 2. Discuss the picture of Saint Francis of Assisi. Ask: What else do you see in the picture? (ani-mals) How do you think Saint Francis felt about animals? (He loved them.) What kind of clothing is Saint Francis wearing? (a brown robe) Is his clothing fancy? (No.) Do you think Saint Francis was a rich man? (No.)

Read aloud the page. Say: Saint Francis loved everything God created. He loved the animals as if they were his brothers and sisters. He treated them kindly. In our session together, we are going to learn how God makes every-thing and how prayer helps us show our love for all creation. Have children turn to page 3.

God’s Creation

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2

UNIT 1 1

engage

Saint Francis of AssisiFrancis liked the country. He loved the trees.

He loved the animals.

Once a hungry wolf began to bother people.

The people were scared.

Francis was not scared. He talked to “brother

wolf.” He gave the wolf some food. Soon, no one

was scared. “Brother wolf” was everyone’s friend.

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Saint Francis of AssisiSaint Francis loved all living things.

God, Our Creator

and Father

UNIT

1UNIT UNIT UNIT UNIT UNIT

11

1





This page describes a program-wide intergenerational event that is offered in a supplemental component.

Events GuideFinding God Together: An Intergenerational Events Guide by Mary Lynn Hendrickson and Tom McGrath

TOGETHER

EVENTS GUIDE

Ideas to shareLover of Nature

Saint Francis was born in the town of Assisi in Italy in 1182. At age 20 he devoted himself to a life of prayer and at age 23 embraced a life of poverty, dedicating himself to God. Francis took long walks through the country-side and studied plants and trees. He felt all plants and animals were part of God’s kingdom. Saint Francis is the founder of the Franciscan reli-gious order. He is the patron saint of those who care for plants and animals. His feast day is October 4.

oPtional unit oPenerintergenerational event

PrepareWork with your catechetical leader to use the Finding God Together kit to plan an intergenerational event for Unit 1.

Open the EventGather families in one space. Use Finding God Together to open the event, introduce Finding God, and discuss the main theme for Unit 1. Together, enjoy an entertaining skit.

Implement the Saint Stations

Use Finding God Together to help families learn more about the saints at their grade-level saint stations. Be sure all families feel welcome and are engaged in the process.

CloseGather families in one space for a guided reflection. Use Finding God Together to close the event.

Transition to Children’s Book

When children arrive for the faith formation session, discuss the event, distribute the Children’s Books, and review information about the unit saint. Have children open their books to page 3.

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2

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4

5

2 www.findinggod.com

engage

TOGETHER

Unit 1

Saint Francis of AssisiFeast Day: October 4

Image: © Tristan Elwell.

978-0-8294-3200-8

GRADE

1GRADE GRADE

11



SeSSion 1

outcomeS

▶▶ Tell that God created everything out of love for us.

▶▶ Explain that we care for God’s creation by helping others.

▶▶ Define Amen, Creator, God, and saint.

Set the StageShare with children your favorite outdoor activities. Invite children to share their favorite activities with the group. Direct children’s attention to the picture on page 3. Ask: What’s happening in this picture? (The happy girl is holding a flower.) Why does the girl seem happy? (Answers will vary.)

Get StartedSay: Now we’ll read about things in God’s creation. Read aloud the session title and the paragraph. Say: God is so good to us! What are some of the good things he gives us? Accept rea-sonable responses.

Say: I’m going to play a song. When it’s finished, I’ll ask you to

tell me some of the words you heard. Play “God Is So Good” [CD 2, Track 3]. Ask: Which words did you hear at the end of each verse? (He’s so good to me.) Play the song again, inviting everyone to sing along. Say: In this session we’re going to learn that God is so good to all of us!

Prayer

Say: We’ve been talking about the wonderful things God creates. Fold your hands and close your eyes. Pray along with me. Then you can ask God anything else you’d like. Pray the prayer aloud slowly and reverently. Pause and take two deep breaths. Have children open their eyes. Say: Always remember you can talk to God whenever you want.

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Our Beautiful WorldDistribute magazines and newspapers and have children find and cut out pictures of beautiful things from nature. Lead a discussion on how to care for these gifts from God. Have children mount collages of the pictures on construction paper. Display the collages.

God’s Creation

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for an article about God’s love revealed in his creation.

UNIT 1 • Session 1 3

engage

Prayer

God, help me see the beauty of your world.

Help me always know that you love me.

Think about the

wonderful world around

you. Think about the

animals. Think about the

trees and flowers. Think

about your friends and

your family. What are

your favorite things?

God Makes

Everything

SESSION 1

33



If TIme Allows



BeginInvite children to hold and look at fresh flowers or a potted plant. Have children look at the pictures on page 4. With a sense of wonder, ask: Did you know God makes lakes, people, flowers, trees, and fruit just for us?

ConnectRead aloud the title and text. Say: On this page there are two important words. Point out the vocabulary words in dark type, God and Creator. Ask: Who can tell me who God is? After a few responses, say: We call God the Creator because he makes everything. God creates wonderful things for us to enjoy because he loves us.

CloseTalk about what children see every day. Ask: What do you see when you go to a park or to the beach? Encourage children to talk about each place. Ask: Isn’t it wonderful how we can see God’s creation everywhere we look? Always remember to thank God in your heart whenever you see something he makes for us.

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Session 1 BLMGod’s wonderful Creation Have children complete the Session 1 Blackline Master [T-277] to highlight some things God makes for us.

Message Through Media: Horton Hears a WhoHave children view a 5 to 10 minute clip from Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who!, a movie that emphasizes the importance of all God’s creations, no matter their size. As they view the clip, ask children to remember that everything God creates—from a tiny ant to the tallest moun-tain—deserves our care and love.

God’s Creation


exPlore

God Is the CreatorGod is the Creator of everything. God makes the sky and the sea. God makes trees and flowers. He even makes us.

God loves us. He wants us to enjoy everything he makes.

EXPL

ORE




If TIme Allows



BeginAsk: Does your family recycle? What kinds of things do you recycle? (paper, cans, glass, plastic) How do you recycle? (put recyclables in a container, put the container on the street for pickup) Say: When we recycle, we are caring for God’s world.

ConnectRead aloud the title and the first paragraph on page 5. Ask: Why are these children recycling? (They care about the world God made for them. They want to take care of God’s world.)

Ask: How can we show our love for God’s creation? (by feeding birds, plant-ing trees, not littering)

God’s Creation

Read aloud the second paragraph. Ask: What does amen mean? Say: We pray amen to show we really mean the words we prayed. Have children repeat the word Amen. Read aloud the last para-graph. Say: Here’s another new word. The word is saint. A saint is a person who shows love for God in a special way. Saint Francis showed his love for God by caring for God’s creatures.

Ask children to suggest parts of God’s creation that make them happy and how we can take care of those things.

CloseDisplay Art Print 1: Saint Vincent de Paul. Use the Art Print 1 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 213.

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art Print 1

Saint Vincent de Paul

Service: RecyclingIn advance arrange with your catechetical leader to place a recycling bin in view of where children come and go. Encourage children to recycle their trash, both during the session and at home.

God’s Creation

God Made Me SpecialHave children make “God Made Me Special” puppets. Distribute paper plates, and have crayons, markers, scissors, craft sticks, glue, and pieces of yarn on hand. Invite children to draw their own eyes, nose, and mouth on the paper plate. Then have them glue pieces of yarn to the paper plate for hair. Finally, have children glue a craft stick to the back of the plate to make a puppet. You might have them write “God Made Me Special” on the craft stick. Encourage children to use the puppets in role-playing or to act out stories from the Bible.


exPlore

Take Care of Our WorldGod loves us and wants us to be happy. How? We can love God and others. We can work together. We can play with one another. We can take care of our world.

We can show love for God by praying. When we have finished, we pray Amen.

Some people show love for God in a special way. Francis of Assisi did this. He was a saint.

Saint Francis of Assisi

EXPL

ORE

GO TOPAGE

213

SESSION 1 • God Makes Everything 5



If TIme Allows



Prayer

Follow the steps to guide children through the prayer on page 6.

children’s pagePrepare Display the Sign of the Cross poster. Then pray the Sign of the Cross, noting its five gestures.

Pray Say: We’ve learned a lot about God and his world. We show our love for God by taking care of his world and by praying. Now we’ll learn a prayer that reminds us we belong to God. It’s called the sign of the Cross. Have children look at the pictures. Ask children to raise their right hand. Stand near the children so that they can follow your movements. Gesture slowly, making sure children under-stand. Repeat as needed. Say: Now we’re going to add words to our ges-tures. Repeat the procedure, adding words to accompany the movements. Say: Let’s get ready for our special prayer time. When we talk to God in our hearts, it’s important to be quiet. So be very still and take a few moments to relax. Pause for three deep breaths. Read aloud the first paragraph. Say: Sometimes we pray our own words, and sometimes we pray special words. Follow along as I pray the Sign of the Cross aloud.

Read aloud the second paragraph. Pause for 10 seconds to allow chil-dren to talk to God silently. Point to the Sign of the Cross poster. Say: Let’s close our special prayer time by praying the Sign of the Cross together. This poster will help you. We’re going to pray this prayer often, and it will always be very special to us because it’s the first prayer we learned together.

Respond to PrayerAsk children to draw a picture of themselves praying the Sign of the Cross. Invite them to share it with their families.

FYICoaching Children

to PrayFace children as you dem-onstrate the gestures for the Sign of the Cross. Then, explain it’s easier for them to follow along if your back is to them. Use exaggerated movements, making sure children can see where you’re placing your hands (espe-cially on your right and left shoulders), as you pray the words slowly and reverently.


reflect

Prayer

Sign of the CrossWhen we pray, we talk to God. We think of him. We ask God for what we need. We begin and end our prayer with the Sign of the Cross.

Show God your love. Talk with God in your heart. Tell him what you are thankful for.

In the name of

the Father,

and of the Son, and of the Holy

Spirit. Amen.




If TIme Allows



BeginSay: What are some of your favorite things that God makes? Allow time for a few responses. Say: God is so good to us and he makes lots of wonderful things for us to enjoy.

ConnectHave children turn to page 7. Say: The title of this page is God

makes Good things. What good things do you see? Allow time for a few responses. Read aloud the adaptation of Genesis 1:31. Ask: Why do you think God said, “It is very good”? (All that comes from God is good.) Distribute crayons and markers and read aloud the second paragraph. Invite children to complete the activity.

CloseDirect children’s attention to the feature at the bottom of page 7.

Reading God's Word

Say: Listen as I read something beautiful from our special book, the Bible. Read aloud the adaptation of Psalm 96:11–13. Ask: Why are all the things God created so happy? (because God makes everything and loves all crea-tures) Ask: How can we let God know we’re grateful for all he has made? (by thanking him in our prayers, by taking care of the earth)

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Word TreeIf you have your own designated meeting space or classroom that would support a permanent decoration, draw on poster board a large tree with many branches and tape it to a wall. Use green construc-tion paper or poster board to make individual leaves for the tree. Write each vocabulary word on a leaf. Add a new leaf to the word tree each time you encounter a new vocabulary word. Encourage children to use each new word in a sentence. Use the word tree as a tool for vocabulary review throughout the year.


reflect

Reading God’s WordClouds play in the sky. Flowers bloom on earth. Trees bow their branches to God. All are happy. God is good. adapted from Psalm 96:11–13

God Makes Good ThingsGod looked at everything he made. He saw green plants,

sweet fruit, and fresh water. He said, “It is very good.”

adapted from Genesis 1:31

Think about tall mountains, deep oceans, and animals of all sizes. Draw your favorite things God makes.

REFL

ECT

SESSION 1 • God Makes Everything 7



If TIme Allows



Get ready for Session 2Consult the catechist preparation pages to prepare for Session 2 and determine any materials you will need.

Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Read aloud this sec-tion. Ask: What does God make for us? (all people, all things) Whom does God want to care for the world? (us) When we care for the world, what do we show God? (our love)

ConnectWords I Learned Ask children to repeat after you as you clearly pro-nounce each word. If you are using the Word Tree option from page 7, refer to the word tree.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Read aloud this section. Ask: Why is it important to love God’s world? (to thank God for all he creates) Why do we try our best to keep the earth clean? (to show God our love)

Prayer

Say: Let’s thank God for making this world. Begin by praying the Sign of the Cross together. Then have children fold their hands in their laps. Pray the prayer aloud. Pause briefly to allow children to pray in their hearts. Conclude by praying the Sign of the Cross together.

With My Family Read aloud the three suggestions in this section. Invite children to choose one or more to complete at home.

Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: Remember, God creates everything. Let’s all help take care of everything and everyone.

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Session Assessment OptionAn assessment for this session can be found at www.findinggod.com.


reSPond

Prayer

Thank you, God, for making this great world for us.

Livi

ng M

y Fa

ith

Faith SummaryGod is the Creator of all people and all things. When we care for the world, we show God our love.

Words I LearnedAmen GodCreator saint

Ways of Being Like JesusJesus shows that he loves God’s world. Show you love God’s world. Pick up litter.

With My Family

Activity Plant flower or vegetable seeds in small paper cups. As a family, talk about how God creates everything. Discuss ways in which you as a family can care for God’s world.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: What is your favorite part of God’s creation? Why?

Family Prayer Dear God, bless our family and all of your creation. Help us care for your world. Amen.

RESP

OND




If TIme Allows



3-Minute RetreatKnowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 2Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of the session content.

ScriptureGenesis 1:29 tells that God provided food to the man and woman he created.

Psalm 27:13 is an expression of hope in the good-ness of God.

Tradition Genesis reminds us that God created the world just for us, and God calls us to grow in relationship with him and with one another. We thank God for such a precious gift by acknowledging what a truly wonder-ful blessing it is. We do not take his gift for granted, nor do we keep this beauty to ourselves. We thank God for what we have received when we share with others. We have been created to serve God. We ful-fill this service by sharing with others.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching themes are Call to Family, Community, and Participation and Care for God’s Creation. See page 1b for explanations of these themes.

Window on the CatechismThe truth that we are made in the image of God is taught in CCC 356–358. The intimacy between God and the human family is treated in CCC 374–379.

General Directory for CatechesisIf we teach as Jesus did, our teaching will help us understand that God is the Father of all creation. This is discussed in GDC 101.


Genesis 1:29

God also said: “See, I give you every seed-bearing plant

all over the earth and every tree that has seed-bearing

fruit on it to be your food[.]”

ReflectionGod makes sure his creation meets our every need. In this passage from Genesis, we find God providing sustenance for his creation in the garden. God’s care and love for us are manifested not only in the life he gives us but also in his desire for us to share eternal life with him. Each day we are called to praise God for his love by the way we love one another.

QuestionHow can I share God’s love with everyone in my life?

Prayer

Speak to God, using these or similar words.

Bountiful God, give me the peace to share

generously, trusting in your abundant blessings

to meet all my needs.

Un IT 1 • Session 2 9a


session 2

God Cares for Us

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Before This Session▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Genesis 1:29 and Psalm 27:13. Place the Bible in the prayer center, open to the passage from Genesis.



engage

God Cares for Us Page 9 10 minutes

explore

Showing God We Care Pages 10–11

Art Print: Showing Love art Print and Print Back

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: We give thanks Page 12

God’s Perfect World Page 13

15–20 minutes

respond

Living My Faith Page 14 5–10 minutes

MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 2: Showing Love and Children’s Book page 214

▶▶ Art supplies

▶▶ CD player

▶▶ CD 2, Track 3: “God Is So Good” (1:11)

if time allows▶▶ Butcher paper (page 9)

▶▶ Art supplies (pages 9–11)


▶▶ Construction paper (page 13)


SeSSion 2 God Cares for Ussession theme: God loves us and wants nothing but the best for us.

Prayer in Session 2

In this session continue to establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The short opening prayer of petition and closing prayer of gratitude invite children to reflect on the focus of the session. Each prayer provides an opportunity for chil-dren to add their own personal intentions. In the Art Print, children learn how to fold their hands for prayer as a way of honoring and loving God. It is good to review how to pray the Sign of the Cross and close our prayer with Amen and folded hands.




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SeSSion 2

outcomeS

▶▶ Explain that God wants us to help others feel welcome.

▶▶ Tell that we show our love for God when we care for others.

▶▶ Define liturgy and Mass.

Set the StageCall attention to the picture on page 9. Ask: What’s happening in this picture? (Two boys in baseball uniforms are smiling.) Do you think the boys are part of a group? (Yes.) How do you know? (They have the same uniforms. They are both players on a baseball team.) Ask: Does either boy look like he feels left out? (No, they both look happy.) Allow time for discussion.

Get StartedRead aloud the session title and the first two questions. Let volunteers answer. Read aloud the last two ques-tions. Ask: What would you do to help someone new feel welcome? (say hello, include him or her in a game) Then say: When you care for others, you make God very happy.

Say: In this session we’ll learn how much God loves us and how to show his love to others.

Prayer

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: Welcoming someone is one way we show God’s love. Have children close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud. Say: In the silence of your heart, ask God about anything else you’d like. Allow time for children to finish praying. Say: Remember, you can talk to God in your heart whenever you want. Conclude by praying the Sign of the Cross together.

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Inclusion: Emotionalworking together If your group includes children with emotional or behavioral disabilities, promote interaction and cooperation as a way to show God’s love. Model how to work together in small groups. Always praise children’s participation.

Mural of God’s LoveProvide a sheet of butcher paper that will accommodate all children. Spread out the paper on the floor or a table, or tape the paper to the wall at a height children can reach. Invite them to draw pictures of people showing God’s love to one another or of a time when children showed God’s love to someone. When children are finished, encourage them to share their drawings. Invite children to applaud their mural.

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for a Sunday connection about how to show God’s love.


engage

Prayer

Loving God, teach me to care for others. Help me show

your love to them.

Were you ever new to

a group? Were you shy?

Did someone help you

feel welcome? How?

God Cares for Us

SESSION 2

9



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BeginHave children look at the pictures on page 10. Ask: Where were these pic-tures taken? (in church) Allow children some time to discuss the pictures. Ask: Whom do you see? What things look familiar to you? What do you think is going on in the pictures? (People are praying. People are singing.)

ConnectRead aloud the title and text. Say: On this page there are two new words in dark type. Practice saying the words after me. The first word is mass. What do we do at Mass? (hear stories about God, pray, sing) Mass is our most impor-tant way of praying to God. The second word is liturgy. Liturgy is the public prayer of the Church that celebrates the wonderful things God has done for us in Jesus Christ. Liturgy is prayer we pray with other people. You may wish to point out the Glossary at the back of the book so that children can look up the definitions.

Reading God's Word

Say: Sit quietly and listen carefully as I read you more words from our special book, the Bible. Read aloud the adap-tation of Psalm 27:13. Pause for a few moments before asking: What can we do to enjoy the good things God has given us? (take walks outside; recycle; take care of plants, flowers, and living creatures)

God’s Creation

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Session 2 BLMwe Give thanks at mass Have children complete the Session 2 Blackline Master [T-278] to reinforce the idea of liturgy as a form of prayer.

What My Church Looks LikeDistribute drawing paper, crayons, and markers. Ask children to each draw a picture of their church. Encourage children to share their draw-ings with the group. Say: The church is the special place where we celebrate Mass together. Invite children to applaud for their work.


exPlore

Reading God’s WordI will enjoy the good things God has given me. adapted from Psalm 27:13

Showing God We CareTogether at Mass we hear stories about God. We pray together. We sing together. We show our love for God.

At Mass we pray together to celebrate the wonderful things God does for us. Mass is a special kind of liturgy.

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Happily say: When you go to Mass and hear messages about God, you learn more about the ways God shares his love. When you pray to God at Mass, you join with others in showing love for him.

Mass is an example of a liturgy. It is the most important way we praise and thank God for the blessings we have received from him.

Read aloud the first paragraph on page 11. Share your favorite part of the Mass.

CloseRead aloud the directions to the activity. Invite children to complete the activity by drawing their favorite part of the liturgy. When children are finished, have them share their draw-ings with the group.

CloseDisplay Art Print 2: Showing Love. Use the Art Print 2 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 214.

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Art Print 2

Showing Love

Service: GreetersIn advance arrange with your catechetical leader to have children be greeters at church doors before and after Mass. Be sure to arrange for children to be supervised. Instruct children to stand by the open doors and to greet people as they enter. After Mass have children distribute bulletins and wish farewell to all leaving.

Family and Community


exPlore

God gives us so many wonderful things. At Mass we praise God for who he is and thank God for all he does. We use our voices to sing and our hearts to express our love. Together as one family at Mass, we celebrate God’s love through prayer.

Draw your favorite part of the Mass.

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Prayer


children’s pagePrepare Before the prayer, set up your CD player to play

“God Is So Good” [CD 2, Track 3] at the end of this prayer activity.

Pray Say: Today we’re going to learn words to say whenever and wherever we pray. Slowly pray, “We praise you. We bless you. We thank you.” Ask chil-dren to find the words on the page.

Say: Let’s get ready for our prayer time. Fold your hands as you do when you pray amen at the end of the Sign of the Cross. Then say: Let us pray and give thanks to God for loving us. Close your eyes and pray silently in your heart while I pray aloud. When you have finished reading, pause to give children time to thank God. Conclude by praying the Sign of the Cross together. Use the Sign of the Cross poster to help reinforce how to pray the Sign of the Cross.

Ask children to turn to page 207. Say: We’re going to sing “God Is

So Good.” Have children discuss why they think God is so good. Play “God Is So Good” a second time and encourage children to sing along.

Giving PraiseHave children use gestures with the words of praise on this page. Ask children to stand. Say: Raise your arms toward the ceiling with your hands open when we say the word praise. Lower your arms a little and turn your palms down when we say the word bless. Cross your arms in front of your chest when we say thank you. Encourage children to join in. Say: There are so many ways to pray! No matter which way we pray, God listens.


to PrayBefore praying explain that all children need for prayer is God and themselves. Say: God is always with you. Encourage children to feel comfortable praying anytime and anyplace that they enjoy.


reflect

Prayer

We Give ThanksWe give thanks to God with special words. These are words you can pray.

We Praise You

We praise you.

We bless you.

We thank you.

God loves and cares for you. You are so special!

In your heart, talk with God. Thank him for the way he cares for you.




If TIme Allows



BeginSay: My favorite food is strawberries. Ask: Do you have a favorite food? What is it? Allow time for a few responses. Say: God is so wonderful to give us such good things to eat and enjoy.

ConnectCall attention to the pictures at the top and bottom of page 13.

Say: What do you see? Who gave us all these wonderful foods? (God) Because God makes everything, what special name do we give him? (Creator) Have children listen carefully as you read the adaptation of Genesis 1:29 and the two lines following the passage. Ask: What kinds of good things does God give us? (food, friends, water) God takes good care of us by giving us everything we need. Read the directions for the activity. Let children name the good things in the picture and then color it.

CloseWhen children are finished, encour-age them to share their drawings with the group.

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Spontaneous ThanksInvite children to raise their hands and offer one thing they are thank-ful for today. You might have children sit in a circle on the floor and roll a ball to one another. When someone receives the ball, he or she gives thanks for something before rolling the ball to someone else.

Thank You, GodDistribute crayons and construction paper. Write Thank You, God on the board. Invite children to make thank-you cards for God, telling him what they are thankful for. Encourage children to decorate their cards. When everyone has finished, invite children to share their cards with the group.


reflect

Black and white line drawing of children working in a vegetable and fruit garden will be commissioned to go here for coloring page

God’s Perfect WorldGod said, “I give you all the plants and trees.

They have seeds and fruit for you to eat.”

adapted from Genesis 1:29

How do we know God cares for us? He gives us good things.

God Gives Us Good Things

Name the good things in the picture. Then color the picture.

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Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Read aloud this sec-tion. Ask: Why should we be kind to others? (because God is kind and wants us to be like him; because God wants us to love one another) What are some ways God shows he loves us? (through what he gives us; through nature; through people, such as our families and teachers)

ConnectWords I Learned Pronounce the words for children. If time allows, have children review pages 10 and 11 in their books. If you are using the Word Tree option from page 7, refer to the word tree.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Read aloud this section. Ask: What are some ways you can care for your family? your friends? your neighbors? Allow several children to respond.

Prayer

Have children fold their hands. Pray the prayer aloud. Pause to allow children time to pray silently. Close by praying the Sign of the Cross together.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: Remember, God loves you! Share that love with others every day.

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reSPond

Prayer

Thank you, God, for loving me and caring for me.

Livi

ng M

y Fa

ith

Faith SummaryGod loves us. He loves us more than anyone else can. God wants us to love one another.

Words I Learned liturgyMass

Ways of Being Like JesusJesus cares for others. Show others you care about them.

With My Family

Activity Draw a picture of a time you and your family showed love to someone.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: Where is your favorite place to pray? Why?

Family Prayer Dear God, bless our family. Help us know how much you love us so that we can share your love with others. Amen.

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ScriptureMatthew 3:17 tells how God reveals Jesus’ identity.

John 14:23 speaks of the relationship between Jesus and the Father.

TraditionWe address our prayers to God as Jesus taught us, to God our Father—a term that emphasizes the special closeness we share. The most important way we learn and understand what God reveals is through the Church and its living Tradition, based on the faith of the first apostles and disciples of Jesus. We find this in the New Testament, written by the first generation of faithful disciples under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The Church guides us in our call to follow God’s direction of seeking all that is truly loving and good. We are able to undertake this call because each of us is created with a spiritual soul, an intellect, and free will.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching themes are Solidarity and Call to Family, Community, and Participation. See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Window on the CatechismKnowing God as Father, as taught by Jesus, is in CCC 238–240. The unity of the Old and New Testaments is found in CCC 128–129.

General Directory for CatechesisTeaching as Jesus did leads to an understanding of the Father of all creation. This is discussed in GDC 100.


John 14:23

Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father

will love him, and we will come to him and make our

dwelling with him.

ReflectionJesus came to teach us about God our Father. God, the one who creates and sustains all life, wants to be known by the most intimate of names. God is our Father, who wants to share his life with us and help us be as close to him as we can. Jesus came to teach us how to achieve this closeness to God. As followers of Jesus’ Word, God dwells in us.

QuestionWhat do I want to say to God, who is dwelling within me?

Prayer

Speak to God our Father, using these or your own words.

God, our Father and father of Jesus Christ, you

promised to be with us until the end of time.

Thank you for sharing your life with me and

helping me follow Jesus, your Son.



session 3

God Is Our Father



Before This Session▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Matthew 3:17 and John 14:23. Place the Bible in the prayer center, open to the passage from Matthew.



engage

God Is Our Father Page 15 10 minutes

explore

A Special Message Page 16

God’s Message Page 17

Art Print: Triumphal Entry art Print and Print Back

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: How Special You are Page 18

A Home with Jesus Page 19

15–20 minutes

respond


MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 3: Triumphal Entry and Children’s Book page 215

▶▶ Art supplies

▶▶ CD player

▶▶ CD 1, Track 6: “God’s Special Child” (12:00)

if time allows▶▶ Red or pink heart-shaped construc-tion paper, one for each child; hole punch, yarn (page 15)

▶▶ Art supplies (pages 15, 17, 19)


▶▶ Finger paint, shallow container (page 16)

▶▶ Cardstock cut into bookmark shapes (page 17)

▶▶ 8-inch strips of construction paper (page 19)


SeSSion 3 God Is Our Fathersession theme: Jesus tells us that God is his Father and our loving Father too.

Prayer in Session 3

A special approach to prayer in Session 3 is an extended guided reflec-tion entitled “God’s Special Child.” To prepare, listen to the recorded guided reflec-tion [CD 1, Track 6] as a prayerful experience for yourself. Then, during the session, join the children in reflective prayer. If you choose to lead it yourself, listen to the recording a second time, following the script [pages T-266–T-267] and noting pauses and tone of voice. Use the script or adapt it as you wish. You might play instru-mental music softly to enhance the sense of prayerfulness. An alter-native approach to prayer in this session is to use the prayer on the chil-dren’s page.






SeSSion 3

outcomeS

▶▶ Explain that we show love for one another in special ways.

▶▶ Identify the Bible as God’s special message.

▶▶ Tell that God gave us his only Son, Jesus, to teach how much God loves us.

▶▶ Define Bible and Jesus.

Set the StageShare your birth date and how you celebrate your birthday. Ask: Who has a birthday coming up? How will you celebrate? Who will celebrate with you? Allow some time for discussion. Then have children turn to page 15. Ask: What’s happening in this picture? (a birthday celebration) What are the people doing? (having a party) Say: When you love someone, you do things to help that person feel special.

Get StartedAsk a volunteer to read aloud the title of the session and the first two ques-tions. Invite children to answer. Then read aloud the rest of the text. Give children some time to think of ways to show love to their families. Say: In this session we will learn about God’s special message and how much Jesus loves us.

Prayer

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: We’ve been talking about ways we show our love. Today we’ll learn about God’s love for us. Let’s ask God to help us learn more about him. Pray the prayer aloud. Pause to allow chil-dren time to pray silently. Then say: Remember, you can talk to God in your heart whenever you want. Let’s close our prayer with the Sign of the Cross.

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Two-Heart CutoutDistribute crayons, markers, and red or pink heart-shaped construc-tion paper. Write God Loves Me and I Love God on the board. Say: Let’s make something to remind us we are special to God. Invite children to copy God Loves Me on one side of the heart and I Love God on the other side. Then have children decorate the hearts. Punch a hole at the top of the heart and thread yarn through the hole. Encourage children to take their hearts home to share with family members.

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for an article about the Bible and you.

UnIT 1 • Session 3 15

engage

Prayer

God, help me learn about your love. Help me grow

closer to you.

Whose birthday is it?

How is the family

showing love? Think of

your family. How can you

show your love?

SESSION 3

God Is Our Father

15



If TIme Allows



BeginHave children form a circle to play Telephone. Say: We can send God’s message around the room, but every-one needs to work together. The object of the game is to send the correct message. Whisper to one child: God loves and cares for us. Watch the message travel. When the message is announced, make any corrections to the statement.

ConnectAsk: Have you ever sent mail to some-one? What can you say in a letter or a card? Allow some time for discussion.

Have children turn to page 16. Read aloud the title and the first two sentences. Ask: How do you know that this is a card for Ben? What about the card tells you that it is a birthday card? Allow time for a few responses. Read the card aloud, pausing after each line. Ask: What do you think of that message? Would you like someone to send you that kind of message?

Read aloud the questions and allow time for children to respond.

CloseTalk about keepsakes. Explain that some things are so special, like Ben’s card from his dad, that people like to keep them forever. Ask: What kinds of keepsakes can you make to remind others of God’s love? (some of God’s creations, such as rocks, leaves, flowers or a bookmark with God Loves You writ-ten on it)

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Session 3 BLMa message from Jesus Have children complete the Session 3 Blackline Master [T-279] to discover a special message from Jesus.

HandprintsSay: Sending a letter is a wonderful thing to do. We don’t always have to use words to say something; sometimes a picture tells our message. Let’s make a picture to show our love to someone special. Pour finger paint into a shallow container. Have children press their palms into the paint and make handprints on white paper. Tell chil-dren that their hands are unique and that no one in the world has their same handprint. Ask: How does this handprint letter show love? Discuss children’s responses. Say: Remember, when you give your handprints to your special person, you will be giving him or her something no one else can.


exPlore

A Special MessageToday is Ben’s birthday. His father gives him a special card.

Did you ever get a special message? How did you feel?

Happy Birthda

y

Dear Ben,

You are very special to me.

You are kind to our family.

I will love you always.

Dad

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BeginShow children the Bible. Say: We get messages from God. We find

these messages in our special book, the Bible. Select passages from the Bible and discuss the message from each. For example, you might discuss the Nativity in Luke 2:1–7 or the story of Creation in Genesis 1:24–28.

ConnectRead aloud the title and the first paragraph on page 17. Have children repeat the new vocabulary word, Bible. Say: The Bible contains the story of God’s promise to care for us.

Refer to your Bible in the prayer center. Say: This is where we keep our Bible. It’s a very special place.

Help children locate the word Jesus on the page. Ask: Who is Jesus? (God’s Son) Say: The Bible tells us all about Jesus.

Link to Liturgy

Read aloud this feature. Ask: At Mass what kinds of stories do you hear from the Bible? (stories about God and Jesus) Say: After we hear a story, we say special words. We say “Thanks be to God” or “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.” Have children repeat. Say: When we say these words, we’re prais-ing God for his messages in the Bible.

Read aloud the activity directions and invite children to complete it.

CloseDisplay Art Print 3: Triumphal Entry. Use the Art Print 3 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 215.

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Art Print 3

Triumphal Entry

Service: Elderly FriendsRemind children of Ben’s special card. Say: Ben loved receiving that special card from his dad. Today we’re going to make something special to share with our older friends. Provide card stock cut into bookmark shapes, along with markers and crayons. Invite children to color and decorate as they choose. When children are finished, gather the bookmarks in a pile. Have children extend a hand over them and repeat after you. Say: God, bless these bookmarks. May they brighten our friends’ day. Laminate and distribute the bookmarks to a local assisted-living center.



exPlore

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Link to LiturgyAt Mass we hear stories from the Bible.

God’s MessageGod our Father sends us a message. He loves and cares for us. God’s message is in the Bible. The Bible is the story of God’s promise to care for us. It also tells us about Jesus, God’s Son.

Bible

Connect the dots below and discover the hidden image. Write the name of the picture you have drawn.

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Prayer

Choose an approach and pray with the children.

APProAch 1

recorded Guided reflection

Prepare Listen in advance to the recorded guided reflection

“God’s Special Child” [CD 1, Track 6]. Decide if you will use the recording or lead yourself. If you choose to lead, listen to the recording a second time, following the script [pages T-266–T-267] and noting pauses and tone. You can then use the script or adapt as you wish.

Pray Play the recording or lead using the script, playing instrumental music softly in the background to enhance the sense of prayerfulness.

APProAch 2

children’s pagePrepare Pray the prayer on page 18 in advance.

Pray Display the Sign of the Cross poster. Say: Let’s get ready for prayer time by taking a moment to relax and be very still.

Direct children’s attention to the picture. Ask: What do you think the child is thinking? Discuss a few responses.

Read aloud the page in a prayerful manner. Pause between sentences, giving children time to reflect. At the end of the prayer, say: Now take a few moments to tell Jesus anything you’d like.

Close the prayer by praying Amen and leading the children in praying the Sign of the Cross. Say: Remember, whenever you want to talk to God, just close your eyes and become quiet and still in your heart.

Pray AgainIf you have used the recorded guided reflection, you might use this prayer page during another session.


to PrayBefore praying, set the tone for reflective prayer with a relaxed, confident, rever-ent tone of voice. Remind children that Jesus is always there for them and loves spending time with them.


reflect

Prayer

How Special You AreImagine Jesus is speaking to you, telling you how special you are! He tells you how much God loves you. Jesus tells you this is God’s message in the Bible.

Meet Jesus in your heart. Talk with him. Know that he hears your words. Be still with Jesus.




If TIme Allows



BeginAsk: Does everyone in the world live in the same kind of home? What are some different kinds of homes people have? Allow several children to answer. Remember that children’s home situations may vary. Be sensitive to children’s responses. Guide the dis-cussion so that children understand that all people should have a place to live.

Solidarity

ConnectSlowly read to children A Home with Jesus, pausing after each question and allowing children time to respond. Then read aloud the activity direc-tions and allow time for children to draw their pictures. When children are finished, encourage them to share their drawings.


Reading God's Word

Say: Now sit quietly and listen care-fully. Let me read you something beautiful from the Bible. Jesus is speaking to us and giving us a mes-sage. Read aloud the adaptation of John 14:23. Then say: When you love Jesus, God loves you.

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Link by LinkHave children make a paper chain to symbolize all the people invited to live with Jesus. Provide several precut eight-inch strips of construc-tion paper. Ask children to make one link for each family member and loved one. Demonstrate how to make the chain by gluing the short ends of one of the strips together to make a circle, thread another strip through the circle and glue the ends of the new strip together to make another circle. Tell children to continue this procedure until all their links are added. When children are finished, ask them to hold up their chains and say: Look at all the different families we have. We have very big families and smaller families and medium-sized families. How wonderful! Collect children’s chains and make one long chain. Drape the chain around the Bible in its special place of honor.



reflect

Reading God’s WordJesus said, “If you love me, my Father will love you.We will live with you in love.” adapted from John 14:23

A Home with JesusImagine Jesus is coming to your home. How do you greet him? Who else is there to welcome him? What do you do when he comes?

Draw a picture of Jesus in your home.

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Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Read aloud this sec-tion. Remind children that when we read the Bible, we receive messages from God. Ask: Who is God’s Son? (Jesus) Why is the Bible so special? (It tells us about God’s love for us, about Jesus, and about how to live as Jesus did.)

ConnectWords I Learned Pronounce the words clearly for children. Ask volun-teers to find and read the definitions in the Glossary. If you are using the Word Tree option from page 7, refer to the word tree.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Read this section aloud. Ask: Why is it important to tell your parents and others you love them? How do you feel when your par-ents or others tell you they love you? (happy, secure, peaceful)

Prayer

Say: Now let’s thank God for shar-ing his promise to care for us. Have children fold their hands and close their eyes. Softly pray the prayer aloud. Then invite children to speak to God silently. Pause for a moment. Close by praying the Sign of the Cross together.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage chil-dren to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: Remember, God loves you! Go and share his message of love with everyone!

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reSPond

Prayer

Thank you, God, for your message in the Bible.

Livi

ng M

y Fa

ith

Faith SummaryGod our Father and his Son, Jesus, speak to us in a special way. We learn about God’s love in the Bible.

Words I Learned BibleJesus

Ways of Being Like JesusJesus tells us that God loves us.Share God’s message. Say “God loves you.” Say “I love you too.”

With My Family

Activity Put your family Bible in a special place. Ask your mom or dad to read with you.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: What are some ways to show your love for God?

Family Prayer Dear God, bless our family. Thank you for sharing your words in the Bible. Amen.

RESP

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ScriptureJohn 20:19–22 tells that Jesus empowers the dis-ciples to continue his mission.

Ephesians 6:23 concludes Paul’s letter with wishes for peace and love for the Church in Ephesus.

TraditionJesus gave his disciples the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God active in the world and active in our lives. He helps us know we are loved and share this love with others. When we find ourselves treating others with compassion as Jesus did—when we help others without being asked, when we for-give those who hurt us—we are moving in the Holy Spirit. When we recognize that we are personally loved, we are experiencing God’s Holy Spirit. When we pray the Glory Be to the Father, also called the Doxology, we are proclaiming our belief in the Trinity. We praise God for revealing his glory in the Holy Spirit, who shares his peace with us.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching themes are Call to Family, Community, and Participation and Solidarity. See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Window on the CatechismThe Holy Spirit is introduced in CCC 691. His pres-ence in our lives is presented in CCC 733–736.

General Directory for CatechesisThe Holy Spirit animates us as catechists. This is described in GDC 34.


John 20:21–22

[Jesus] said to them again, “Peace be with you. As

the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he

had said this, he breathed on them and said to them,

“Receive the holy Spirit.”

ReflectionUsually when we pray for peace, we focus our thinking only on armed conflicts. Rarely do we ask God to bring peace to our minds, our hearts, and our relationships. When Jesus appears to his disciples, he knows their inner distress, and so he offers peace. Peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but the reality that exists when Heaven and earth “connect.” The peace Jesus offers the disciples is the knowledge that God is present, that God cares, and that God will be with them.

QuestionHow can I help others understand the peace of God’s love so that they can love others?

Prayer

Speak to the Holy Spirit, using these words or others that come to mind.

Come Holy Spirit, breath of Heaven, bring me

peace and help me bring peace to others.



session 4

God Gives Us Peace



Before This Session▶▶ Bookmark the Bible to John 20:19–22 and Ephesians 6:23. Place the Bible in the prayer center open to the passage from John.

▶▶ Display the Finding God poster Sign of the Cross.



engage

God Gives Us Peace Page 21 10 minutes

explore

A Gift of Peace Page 22

All Are One Page 23

Art Print: Corners of the World art Print and Print Back

30–40 minutes

reflect

Prayer: give Praise Page 24

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Page 25

15–20 minutes

respond


MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 4: Corners of the World and Children’s Book page 216

▶▶ Art supplies

▶▶ Finding God poster: Sign of the Cross

if time allows▶▶ Session 4 BLM, T-280 (page 22)

▶▶ Art supplies (pages 22, 23, 25)

▶▶ 12-inch lengths of crepe paper, 14-inch lengths of yarn, stapler (page 22)

▶▶ Construction paper (pages 22, 23)


SeSSion 4 God Gives Us Peacesession theme: The Holy Spirit is God’s presence among us.

Prayer in Session 4

In this session’s opening prayer of petition and closing prayer of grati-tude, children thank God for the gift of peace and pray to share that peace with others. In the Reflect step, children are introduced to the Glory Be to the Father, also known as the Doxology, a prayer of praise to the Trinity.






SeSSion 4

outcomeS

▶▶ Tell that Jesus brings us God’s love.

▶▶ Explain that the Holy Spirit brings us God’s gift of peace.

▶▶ Define Holy Spirit and Trinity.

Set the StageAsk: What is a game you like to play with your friends? How often do you play this game? Allow several children to respond.

Have children turn to page 21. Ask: What’s happening in this picture? Do you think the children are happy or sad? Discuss how friends help us feel good.

Get StartedSlowly read aloud the title of the ses-sion and the paragraph. Allow time for children to respond. Say: If you feel sad, can your friends help cheer you up? Guide the discussion so that children understand friends can help us feel happy when we are sad.

Prayer

Say: In this session we will learn about God’s wonderful gift of peace. Say: Let’s practice being peace-ful. Fold your hands and relax. Sit quietly like this for a moment and then we’ll pray a special prayer to God. Have children close their eyes if they wish. Say: Let’s ask God for peace in our lives. Pray along silently while I pray aloud. Invite children to talk to God in their hearts. Pause for two or three deep breaths. Say: Remember, you can talk to God in your heart when-ever you want. Now let’s close our prayer with the Sign of the Cross.

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Getting to Know YouPair children together. If there is an odd number, be someone’s partner. Say: We make friends by getting to know people. All of us have something special to share. Allow children a minute to find out something special about their partners. Suggest that they find out a pet’s name, a favorite food, or a hobby. Then encourage children to share this information with the group. For example, “John is special. He likes peanut butter.” Make sure everyone has a turn interviewing and being interviewed. Emphasize that we all have qualities that make us special.

Go to www.findinggod.com/sessionextenders for a 3-Minute Retreat about peace of mind and heart.


engage

Prayer

God, help me live in peace. I want to share your

peace with others.

Think about your friends.

How do you feel when you

play together?

SESSION 4

God Gives Us Peace

21



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BeginAsk: Have you ever received a gift? What was it? Allow time for a few responses. Say: Gifts can come in many forms. Not all gifts can be held in your hand or wrapped up in a box. We give the gift of happiness when we give someone a hug, a kind word, or a smile. We give the gift of time when we help someone or do a chore for someone. Peace can also be a gift. Let’s learn about the gift of peace that Jesus gave to his friends.

ConnectHave children turn to page 22 and look at the picture. Ask:

Whom do you see in this picture? What do you think is happening? Allow a few children to comment. Say: This is Jesus with his friends. Jesus is our friend too. Say: Remember how we talked about the Bible last time? The Bible is a special book with God’s message for us. Read aloud the title, adaptation of John 20:19–22, and the sentences below the picture. Say: Hold your hand up to your mouth. Breathe in and out, and feel your breath. That’s how close God’s Holy Spirit is to you—as close as your own breath. Even though you can’t see your breath, you know it’s real. This is true about God’s Holy Spirit too.

CloseSay: Jesus always wanted his friends to be at peace with one another. He often said, “Peace be with you.” Explain that at Mass we wish peace to one another as Jesus did. Say: At Mass the priest or deacon says “Let us offer each other the sign of peace.” You then turn and share that peace with people around you. Give children time to share a sign of peace with one another.

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Session 4 BLMHidden Peace Have children complete the Session 4 Blackline Master [T-280] to reinforce children’s understanding of God’s peace.

Wind SockProvide construction paper, crayons, and markers. Give each child six 12-inch lengths of colored crepe paper to glue along the longer edge of the paper. Help children roll the construction paper to form a cylinder. Staple the cylinders at the ends. Tie a knot at both ends of a 14-inch length of yarn. Staple the knots to each side of the cylinder to make a cord. Say: Even though you can’t see the air that moves your wind sock, it is there. The Holy Spirit is always with us even though we can’t see him.


exPlore

A Gift of PeaceJesus’ friends were in a room. Jesus came to see them. He said,

“Peace be with you. My Father sent me to you. Now I send

you to help others.” He breathed on them. Then he said,

“The Holy Spirit is with you.” adapted from John 20:19–22

Jesus gives us the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is always with us. He brings us God’s peace.

EXPL

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BeginReview what children have learned about peace. Explain that today they’ll learn who gives us peace.

Ask: What do you call a bicycle with three wheels? (a tricycle) Write the word tricycle on the board.

Say: These words begin with the letters t-r-i. The word trinity does too.

ConnectRead aloud the title and the first sen-tence on page 23. Then write Trinity on the board. Say: Whenever we see tri-, we think of three. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are the three Persons of the Trinity. Have children look at the picture. Ask: What do you see in this picture? (light, Jesus, a bird, colors) Read aloud slowly as you hold up your book and point to the symbol for each Person of the Trinity. Say: The beautiful bright light shows the presence of God. Jesus is shown as a young man, as he was on earth. A dove is often used to show the Holy Spirit.

Ask: Which Person of the Trinity made us? (the Father) Which Person of the Trinity brings us God’s love? (the Son) Which Person of the Trinity brings us God’s peace? (the Holy Spirit) Read aloud the last paragraph.

CloseDisplay Art Print 4: Corners of the World. Use the Art Print 4 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 216.

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Art Print 4

Corners of the World

Service: The Gift of TimeHave children make a special card for a family member or a neighbor. Inside, children should offer a “gift” of their time to this person. For example, a gift for mom could be helping her set the table. A gift for a neighbor could be raking leaves, shoveling snow, or collecting his or her mail.



exPlore

All Are OneThe Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are the Trinity.

God made us out of love. Love and peace are God’s gifts to us.

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SESSION 4 • God Gives Us Peace 23



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Prayer


children’s pagePrepare Pray the prayer in advance. Display the Sign of the Cross poster.

Pray Say: Today we’ve learned God the Father made us, Jesus his Son brings us God’s love, and the Holy Spirit brings us peace. Now we’re going to learn a special prayer to praise the Trinity.

Say: Let’s get ready for our special prayer time. Take a few moments to sit quietly.

Read aloud the sentence above the prayer. Say: Sometimes we use our own words when we pray, and some-times we use special words. Today we will pray the Glory Be to the Father. In this prayer we will use special words. Pause and take a deep breath. Say: Follow along in your books or look at the picture as I pray the prayer aloud.

Say: Now close your eyes and continue listening. Read aloud the paragraph below the prayer slowly and clearly. When you finish reading, pause for 10 seconds to allow children time to pray silently. Close quiet time by leading children in praying the Sign of the Cross.

Direct children’s attention to the Sign of the Cross poster. Say: Now you know two prayers you can pray to the Trinity. Ask: How are they alike? (In both prayers we say “the Father, the Son,” and “the Holy Spirit.”)

Signs of the TrinityTake children to church to look for symbols of the Trinity: a hand or beams of light [the Father]; the cross [the Son]; a dove or a flame [the Holy Spirit]. Have children look at windows, statues, a cross or crucifix, the altar, and the Stations of the Cross. Explain that people use artwork in churches to teach us about God.


to PrayMake sure you allow suf-ficient time for children to reflect during pauses in prayer. Begin with 10–15 sec-onds and gradually increase the time. Tell children that when they’re talking to Jesus in their hearts, they can use any words they want because he always understands.


reflect

Prayer

Give Praise We praise the Trinity when we pray.

Glory Be to the Father

Glory be to the Father,

and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning,

is now, and ever shall be,

world without end.

Amen.

God is always with us. Talk with God in your heart. Tell him how you will share his peace with others.




If TIme Allows



BeginSay: We have been talking about the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Do you remember the name of these three Persons? It begins with the letters t-r-i. The activity on this page will help you remember.

ConnectRead aloud the title and the para-graph at the top of page 25. Distribute crayons or markers and explain the activity. Invite children to color the picture. Confirm that the answer to the question is the Trinity. Ask: How many Persons are there in the Trinity? (three)


Did You Know?

Have children turn back to page 2. Say: Saint Francis of Assisi was a man of peace. He spent his life serving Jesus and preaching the goodness of God. Francis believed all God’s creation should live together in peace.

Read aloud the feature on page 25, emphasizing peace and goodness. Encourage children to say the words to one another. Ask: What are other ways we can be peacemakers? (by making friends with people who are different from us, by listening carefully when others speak) Allow several chil-dren to respond.

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A Peaceful DayHave children sit in a circle. Begin by describing your idea of a peace-ful day. Ask them to share their ideas of a peaceful day. Reinforce the concept that positive behaviors bring peace. Point out that sharing—both work and fun—listening, helping, and laughing are all actions that foster peaceful living. Allow time for children to discuss. Then invite children to return to their seats and draw a picture of their idea of a peaceful day.


reflect

Did You Know?When you see a friend, what do you say? When Saint Francis saw a friend, he said something special. He said, “Peace and goodness.” Try it!

Father, Son, and Holy SpiritWhat do we call the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? Color the spaces that have dots. Then read the words.

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Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Read aloud this sec-tion. Ask: What did we learn about the Trinity? (There are three Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.)

Turn back to page 23 and hold up your book. Point to the symbol for each Person of the Trinity in the picture, and read the text next to that symbol. Say: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are the Trinity.

ConnectWords I Learned Pronounce the words clearly for children. Ask volun-teers to find and read the definitions in the Glossary. If you are using the Word Tree option from page 7, refer to the word tree.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Read aloud this section. Ask: Why is it so impor-tant to share? (Sharing brings peace.) How do you feel when someone shares with you? (happy, good, calm)

Ask: What else can you share besides your toys? (a good book, an important idea, myself)

Prayer

Say: Let’s thank the Holy Spirit for sharing God’s peace. Pray the prayer aloud. Pause for a few seconds to allow children time to pray silently. Conclude by praying Amen.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: Remember to share God’s peace with your friends and family!

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reSPond

Prayer

Thank you, Holy Spirit, for bringing peace to my life.

Livi

ng M

y Fa

ith

Faith SummaryGod is always with us. God our Father made us. Jesus, his Son, brings us God’s love. The Holy Spirit brings us peace.

Words I Learned Holy SpiritTrinity

Ways of Being Like JesusJesus brings us God’s love. You can bring God’s love. You can share your toys.

With My Family

Activity Talk with your family at dinner. Pray a quiet prayer of thanks for your wonderful family and the time you share together.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: How can you show God’s love?

Family Prayer Dear God, bless my family and help us always know how much you love us.

RESP

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Scripture1 Corinthians 1:4 teaches us to give thanks to God every day for the grace bestowed on us through Jesus Christ.

Psalm 118:24 calls us to rejoice and be glad for the day the Lord has given to us today.

TraditionOrdinary Time is celebrated on Sundays in two dis-tinct periods. The first period is after the Christmas season until Ash Wednesday. The second period is after the Easter season until the First Sunday of Advent. There may be 33 or 34 Sundays in Ordinary Time. The term Ordinary Time is based on the word ordinal, meaning “numbered days.” These are the Sundays that are devoted to reflecting on the mys-tery of Christ in his day-to-day life. It is during this time that we ask for Christ’s saving help so that our work can always find its origin in him and he may help us bring it to completion.

Catholic Social TeachingIn this session the integrated Catholic Social Teaching theme is Life and Dignity of the Human Person. See page 1b for an explanation of this theme.

Window on the CatechismThe ways in which we may enter into the fellowship with Jesus in the ordinary events of daily life is found in CCC 533.

General Directory For CatechesisThe centrality of Jesus Christ for catechesis is found in GDC 98.


1 Corinthians 1:4–5

I give thanks to my God always on your account for the

grace of God bestowed on you in Christ Jesus, that in

him you were enriched in every way[.]

ReflectionIn his letters to the Corinthians, Paul was writing to a community about the size of our smaller parishes. He understood how people work and pray in their everyday lives. He understood their problems, hopes, and dreams. So Paul assures his readers that in the midst of their daily lives, they have received and continue to receive God’s grace. We too are recipients of God’s grace in Jesus Christ. As catechists we are privileged to share with others the knowledge of friendship with Jesus, which will bless their lives.

QuestionHow do I express my gratitude for the gifts of grace that I have and continue to receive?

Prayer

Speak to God, using this prayer or one of your own.

Lord Jesus, thank you for the graces you so

willingly share.



session 5

Celebrating Ordinary Time



Before This Session▶▶ Determine whether you will use the Unit Assessment option listed on page 30.

▶▶ Determine whether you will also discuss the All Saints Day seasonal pages in the back of the Children’s Book.

▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to 1 Corinthians 1:4 and Psalm 118:24. Place it in the prayer center open to the passage from Corinthians.



engage

Celebrating Ordinary Time Page 27 10 minutes

explore

We Show Thanks During Ordinary Time Page 28 25–35 minutes

reflect

Mass During Ordinary Time Page 29

Art Print: Easter Seedling art Print and Print Back

20–25 minutes

respond


MaterialsRequiRed

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Art Print 5: Easter Seedling and Children’s Book page 217

▶▶ Monthly wall calendar

▶▶ Art supplies

if time allows▶▶ Colored poster board (page 27)

▶▶ Art supplies (pages 27, 28)



▶▶ Unit 1 Assessment, T-282–284 (page 30)

SeSSion 5 Celebrating Ordinary Timesession theme: Ordinary Time is a time to be thankful for God’s creation.

Prayer in Session 5

In this session children will learn about Ordinary Time. Children will learn that we give thanks for God’s creation and for all God’s gifts during Ordinary Time.






SeSSion 5

outcomeS

▶▶ Explain that Ordinary Time is a time to show our thanks for God’s creation and for the gifts God gives us.

▶▶ Discuss the images of God’s creation— especially wheat and grapes that become bread and wine—during Ordinary Time.

▶▶ Define creation, liturgical year, and Ordinary Time.

Set the StageDisplay a monthly wall calendar. Ask: Why do people use calendars? (to record important events, to know when to complete tasks, to understand how much time has passed in a year) Say: Our Church has its own calendar that marks a year. Let’s read about a special part of our Church’s year.

Get StartedHave children turn to page 27. Read aloud the title and text. Then have children turn to page 151 in their books and locate both sections of Ordinary Time on the liturgical calendar.

Say: In this session we’ll learn about Ordinary Time—a time to be grateful for living things and to give thanks for the gifts God gives us.

Prayer

Say: Take a moment to imagine a beautiful summer day. Let’s pray together to ask Jesus to be with us during Ordinary Time. Pray aloud the prayer. Then have children close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud again. Say: Let’s take a moment to talk to Jesus in our hearts. Allow time for children to finish their silent prayers. Conclude by praying the Sign of the Cross together.

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Inclusion: Autism SpectrumGod’s Colors Use colored poster board as a visual aid to teach children with autism about the liturgical calendar. Write the words Ordinary Time on green poster board. Tell children that during Ordinary Time priests wear green vestments. Point out that green decorations and linens can often be seen on the altar and around the church. Ask volunteers to draw some of these items on the poster board. Make similar posters for each season of the liturgical year. Display the posters and allow children to add words and pictures to them throughout the year.

Every DayWrite the days of the week on the board. Have children copy them onto paper and draw pictures showing what they do each day. Invite volunteers to share their pictures. As they present, say: God is with you every day!


engage

Prayer

Dear Jesus, I know you are my friend. Help me to grow

closer to you.

The Church keeps a calendar to mark different seasons and special times in Jesus’ life. We call the Church’s year the liturgical year.

We celebrate Ordinary Time two times during each liturgical year. We celebrate first from summer until fall, then again in the winter between the Christmas season and Lent.

Celebrating Ordinary Time

SESSION 5

27



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BeginSay: There are so many different living things that grow in our world. All of these things are created by God. Ask: What are some of your favorite living things? (people, flowers, trees, animals)

ConnectRead aloud the title and the first paragraph. Discuss the gifts shown on the page. Name gifts children in your group may have, such as a loving family, the ability to read, or a strong soccer kick. Then invite children to share their answers.

Read aloud the activity directions. Offer an example for the activity. Say: God has given me the gift of friends, so I am going to draw a picture of my friends. Invite children to complete the activity independently.


Reading God's Word

Read aloud the adapted verse from 1 Corinthians as children follow along in their books. Then have children read aloud the verse in unison. Ask: When you pray, what do you thank God for? Discuss children’s responses.

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Session 5 BLMwe thank God for living things Have children complete the Session 5 Blackline Master [T-281] to thank God for things that grow.

Seasonal Session: All Saints DayWork with children through pages 177–180 of the Children’s Book and this guide. This special session can take up to one hour to complete.


exPlore

Reading God’s WordGive thanks to God. adapted from 1 Corinthians 1:4

We Show Thanks During Ordinary TimeOrdinary Time is a time to be grateful for all living things. All living things grow. We grow by learning more about Jesus. We grow by showing our love for Jesus and for others. We also give thanks and praise to God for all the gifts he gives us.

Draw a picture of one gift God has given you.

EXPL

ORE

Thank you, God!




If TIme Allows



Service: Retirement Home VisitsTalk to your catechetical leader and find out when extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion visit retirement homes in your area. Arrange for small groups of children to be chaperoned by parents and accompany the ministers during their visit. Ask each group to choose and learn a simple song from your hymnal that they can sing for residents during their visit. Assign at least one visit per group during Ordinary Time.

Life and Dignity

BeginBrainstorm a list of items created by God and write them on the board. Discuss various items found in church that are created by God (flowers, plants) and items made by people. (altar, pictures, statues)

ConnectRead aloud the title and the first sentence on page 29. Explain that the word creation means all the things made, or created, by God. Then read aloud the second sentence. Guide children in understanding that God’s creation includes everything: people, animals, the earth, the sun, and so on.

Read aloud the section What We Experience. Discuss the gifts of bread and wine. Say: Bread and hosts are made from wheat, and wine is made from grapes. The gifts of bread and wine are offered at every Mass. During Ordinary Time we think about these gifts as a reminder that Jesus is with us and helps us as we grow and change. Then invite children to complete the activity.

Did You Know?

Read aloud this feature. Explain that the color green is used during Ordinary Time as a symbol of growth, life, and hope. Invite children to name green items they have seen in church.

CloseDisplay Art Print 5: Easter Seedling. Use the Art Print 5 instruction to teach this section. Art Print teaching instruction can also be found on page 217.

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Art Print 5

Easter Seedling


reflect

Did You Know?The liturgical color for Ordinary Time is green.

Mass During Ordinary TimeWhen we go to Mass during Ordinary Time, we celebrate God’s creation. We give thanks for all that God makes for us. We show our thanks by caring for God’s creation.

What We ExperienceWe see flowers or plants around the altar. We also see the gifts of Bread and Wine. The gifts of Bread and Wine are offered at every Mass.

God’s Special Gifts

Circle the two gifts that are offered at every Mass.

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SESSION 5 • Celebrating Ordinary Time 29



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Pl an ahead

BeginFaith Summary Read aloud this sec-tion. Ask children to name things that grow. Remind them to thank God for all his gifts during Ordinary Time.

ConnectWords I Learned Read aloud each term. Ask children to suggest words or phrases that clarify the meaning of each term. Review each term in the Glossary if necessary. If you are using the Word Tree option from page 7, refer to the word tree.

Ways of Being Like Jesus Have a volunteer read aloud this section. Say: Tell the person sitting next to you about a time you were like Jesus in this way.

Prayer

Ask children to close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud. Allow time for silent reflection. Conclude by praying together the Sign of the Cross.


Go in PeaceCollect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Encourage children to discuss the With My Family section at home. Say: Next time we meet, be ready to tell me ways you’ve been more like Jesus. I know I will be so proud of you!

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Unit Assessment OptionIf you wish, photocopy the Unit Assessment on pages T-282–T-284. Administer the assessment during the session or send it home.


reSPond

Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank you for helping me to love

all of God’s gifts.

Livi

ng M

y Fa

ith

Faith SummaryOrdinary Time is a time to be grateful for all of God’s gifts.

Words I Learned creationliturgical yearOrdinary Time

Ways of Being Like JesusJesus loves God’s creation. Take care of people, plants, and animals.

With My Family

Activity When you go to Mass during Ordinary Time, look around your church. Find examples of things described on page 29.

Faith on the Go Ask one another: What gifts did God bless me with?

Family Prayer Invite your family to use Ordinary Time to grow in faith together. Make a prayer jar for special prayers or requests.

RESP

OND

Dear Jesus, thank you for helping me to love




If TIme Allows



finding god: grade 1, parish, teacher's edition

Documents

god cares

presence of god

session of unit

way of honoring god

unit children

loving father

life of prayer

prayer of praise