Christ Our Life PARISH EDITION Catechist’s Guide ® The Church Then and Now GRADE 8 SAMPLE
www.christourlife.com 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 VTL 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Acknowledgments Scripture texts in this work are taken from the New American Bible, revised edition, copyright © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington, D.C. and are used by permission of the copyright owner. All Rights Reserved. No part of the New American Bible may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the copyright owner. Excerpts from the English translation of The Roman Missal. Copyright © 2010, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation Inc. (ICEL). All rights reserved. Excerpt from the English translation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church for the United States of America copyright © 1994 United States Catholic Conference, Inc.—Libreria Editrice Vaticana. All rights reserved. The prayers Sign of the Cross/Signum Crucis, Glory Be to the Father/ Gloria Patri, Lord’s Prayer/Pater Noster, Hail Mary/Ave Maria, Act of Contrition, Act of Hope, Act of Faith, Act of Love, Hail Holy Queen (Salve Regina), Angelus, Regina Caeli, and Memorare come from the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. English translation copyright © 2006, Libreria Editrice Vaticana. All rights reserved. Exclusive licensee in the United States is the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The prayers Grace Before Meals, Grace After Meals, Jesus Prayer, Morning Offering, Peace Prayer, Prayer to St. Michael, and Prayer to One’s Guardian Angel come from the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults. Copyright © 2006, U.S. Conference Catholic Bishops. All rights reserved. The Prayer for Generosity comes from Hearts on Fire: Praying with the Jesuits by Michael Harter, S.J. Copyright © 2005, Loyola Press. The prayer Take, Lord, and Receive (Suscipe) is Copyright © 2004 Institute for Jesuit Sources. Loyola Press has made every effort to locate the copyright holders for the cited works used in this publication and to make full acknowledgment for their use. In the case of any omissions, the publisher will be pleased to make suitable acknowledgments in future editions. Cover and interior design: Loyola Press Cover illustration: Chiara Fedele 978-0-8294-5301-0 Copyright © 2024 Loyola Press All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission of the publisher. Manufactured in China Art Credits i Chiara Fedele. iv(t) Vivian Imbruglia/Iconographer; (b)kookookoo/ iStock/Getty Images. v Marina Seoane. vi ajt/iStock/Getty Images. OV-3(t) Davyd Volkov/iStock/Getty Images; (b) FatCamera/ iStock/Getty Images; SDI Productions/E+/Getty Images. OV-8 monkeybusinessimages/iStock/Getty Images. OV-10(t) AzLa/ Shutterstock.com; (b)jhuting/iStock/Getty Images. OV-12 JGI/ Jamie Grill/Tetra images/Getty Images. OV-14 Capelle.r/Moment/ Getty Images. OV-15 (t)) Johner Images/Johner RF/Getty Images;(b) Warling Studios. OV-16) Nongkran_ch/iStock/Getty Images. OV-18) mxtama/iStock/Getty Images. OV-21) colematt/iStock/Getty Images. OV-23 Cultura Creative RF/Alamy Stock Photo. OV-30 Anna Khomenko/iStock/Getty Images. OV-33 and2DesignInc/DigitalVision Vectors/Getty Images. OV-36 (left to right, top to bottom) Loyola Press; bubaone/DigitalVision/Getty Images; Loyola Press; Shams Suleymanova/iStock/Getty Images; bortonia/DigitalVision/Getty Images; appleuzr/DigitalVision/Getty Images; bortonia/DigitalVision/ Getty Images; TotemArt/Shutterstock.com; Nadiinko/iStock/Getty Images. OV-37 elenabsl/Shutterstock.com. OV-39 Warling Studios. OV-40 adriaticfoto/Shutterstock.com. OV-41 FatCamera/E+/Getty Images. OV-42 Warling Studios. OV-43 (t) Phil Martin Photography; (b) Loyola Press. OV-44 Ariel Skelley/DigitalVision/Getty Images. OV-45 amtitus/DigitalVision/Getty Images. Continued on page T459. Imprimatur In accordance with c. 827, permission to publish is granted on October 17, 2022, by Most Reverend Robert G. Casey, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Permission to publish is an official declaration of ecclesiastical authority that the material is free from doctrinal and moral error. No legal responsibility is assumed by the grant of this permission. In Conformity The Subcommittee on the Catechism, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, has found the doctrinal content of this manual, copyright 2024, to be in conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. SAMPLE
v Contents The Mystery of the Church T1 Chapter 1 A Community of Disciples. . . . .T2 Chapter 2 Tracing Our Roots. . . . . . . T14 Chapter 3 A Closer Look. . . . . . . . .T24 Chapter 4 A People of Prayer. . . . . . T34 Chapter 5 A People of Service . . . . . . T46 UNIT 1 The Marks of the Church T57 Chapter 6 One in the Spirit. . . . . . . .T58 Chapter 7 Made Holy in the Spirit. . . . . T68 Chapter 8 A Church That Is Catholic. . . . T80 Chapter 9 An Apostolic Church. . . . . . T90 The History of the Church: Part I T103 Chapter 10 The First Years. . . . . . . .T104 Chapter 11 The Church Grows . . . . . . T114 Chapter 12 A House Built on Rock . . . . .T124 Chapter 13 A Light in Darkness: Part I. . . T136 Chapter 14 A Light in Darkness: Part II. . . T146 The History of the Church: Part II T159 Chapter 15 The Church Faces Challenges. . T160 Chapter 16 Reforming the Church. . . . . T170 Chapter 17 In a Changing World. . . . . .T180 Chapter 18 Signs of the Times. . . . . . T190 Chapter 19 The Church in North America. . T200 UNIT 2 UNIT 3 UNIT 4 Program Overview . . . . . . . OV-1 Welcome OV-1 Program Overview OV-2 Spiral Curriculum OV-23 Scope and Sequence OV-24 Media at a Glance OV-30 The Catechist’s Handbook . . . OV-31 The Vocation of a Catechist OV-31 The Role of the Catechist OV-32 Knowledge and Skills of a Catechist OV-34 Inclusion: Diverse Learners OV-39 Multicultural Awareness OV-44 Profile of an Eighth Grader OV-45 Digital Resources Easily access the robust digital resources included with Christ Our Life by visiting digitallibrary.loyolapress.com. Contact your administrator for your login credentials. SAMPLE
vi What Catholics Should Know T365 Contents T365 Prayer and How We Pray T367 Prayers We Pray as Catholics T369 The Rosary T372 Mysteries of the Rosary T374 Stations of the Cross T375 Celebrating and Living Our Catholic Faith T377 Making Good Choices T385 The Bible T387 Showing Our Love for the World T389 Student Book Cover Prayers T391 Saints and Feast Days T393 Selected Feasts T393 September T395 October T397 November T399 December T403 January T407 February T410 March T412 April T414 May T419 June T421 July T424 August T427 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . T433 Index..............T449 Scripture Index . . . . . . . . . . T455 The Witness of the Church T215 Chapter 20 The Way of Holiness. . . . . .T216 Chapter 21 The Way of Faith. . . . . . . T228 Chapter 22 The Way of Worship. . . . . .T238 Chapter 23 The Way of the Family. . . . . T248 Chapter 24 The Way of Human Dignity. . . T260 Chapter 25 The Way of Justice and Truth. . .T272 Special Seasons and Lessons T287 The Year in Our Church T289 1 Feast of All Saints T290 2 Advent T295 3 Epiphany T303 4 Lent T309 5 Holy Week T317 6 Easter T325 7 Pentecost T332 8 Reconciliation T337 9 Celebrating Eucharist T356 UNIT 5 SAMPLE
UNIT 1 The Mystery of the Church Goals • Young people will explain what it means to be part of the universal Church, members of the Mystical Body of Christ. • They will identify types of prayer and explain the purpose of prayer in their lives. 1 A Community of Disciples Young people explore the Church as a mystery. They reflect on the biblical images of the Church and determine whether the spiritual truths that the images represent are evident in their own lives. They recognize Mary as the Mother of the Church and the Holy Spirit as the Sanctifier. They review keeping a reflection notebook. 2 Tracing Our Roots Young people gain an overview of salvation history. They come to understand Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition as expressions of God’s Divine Revelation in Jesus Christ. They study the people who belong to the Church and the duties of the members. 3 A Closer Look Young people learn about the origins of the Church and its early stages. They become acquainted with the six models of the Church proposed by theologian Avery Dulles. 4 A People of Prayer Young people reflect on the importance of prayer, what it is, its purposes, and various types of prayer. They review how Jesus prayed and what he taught about prayer. They explore various times and places for prayer. They are introduced to the Liturgy of the Hours, the prayer of the People of God. 5 A People of Service Young people learn that every Christian is called to share in the mission of Christ and his Church. They also study the Beatitudes and corporal works of mercy and consider ways to apply them to their lives. Unit 1 Review Young people review the concepts presented in Unit 1, which focus on the universal Church and our unity as baptized members of the Mystical Body of Christ. They participate in review activities and a prayer celebration. These activities motivate them to incorporate in their daily lives the unit concepts, practices of prayer, and good works. Media in This Unit When preparing to teach the unit, determine how you will use the media. Media that enhances each chapter can be accessed by scanning the QR codes found on the student pages. All media resources are available to you through the LP Digital Library (digitallibrary.loyolapress.com). Contact your administrator for your login credentials. T1 SAMPLE
CHAPTER A Community of Disciples Listening Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. John 15:4–5 Reflecting At the opening of the second session of the Second Vatican Council, Pope Paul VI called the Church a reality imbued with the presence of God. The Church is a mystery because Christ is present in the Church and the Holy Spirit is guiding it. The Church is also a mystery because it is a sign of God’s kingdom. It was Jesus’ mission to reveal the mystery of God and our relationship to God. Through images, Jesus shared aspects of the mystery of the Church. He used the symbol of leaven to indicate that the kingdom would extend throughout the world. To show that we are bonded to him and find life through him, Jesus likened our relationship with him to branches grafted to a vine. United, we bear fruit in the form of love for others, which shows itself in service. The image of the vine and branches describes how closely we are linked to Christ. We are like two friends present to each other, listening, understanding, and relating Faith Focus The Church is the community of disciples, the Body of Christ, loved and redeemed by Christ. Reflecting on the Faith Experience Take a few moments to reflect prayerfully before preparing the lesson. Responding Holy Spirit, lead these young people and me to an ever deeper relationship with Jesus and his Church. Scripture for Further Reflection Luke 8:9–10 When Jesus explains why he speaks in parables, he uses the word in conjunction with the Kingdom of God. Ephesians 3 Throughout this short chapter, Paul speaks of the mystery of Christ and his Church as it has been revealed by the Holy Spirit. He urges his listeners to aspire to the perfect love of Christ, that is, holiness. intimately. Transformed by his love, we can strengthen, heal, love, and serve others. In comparing the Church to a sheepfold, Jesus emphasized his care for us. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, loves us so much that he laid down his life so that we might have eternal life. Each of us is a small but vital part of the holy and splendid mystery of the Church. We are the leaven in Christ’s parable; we are the living branches grafted onto Christ and rooted in him; we are the sheep of his pasture; we are the Church, and Mary is our mother. Our spiritual heritage is both comforting and challenging. By looking at the past, we see the Father’s love for humanity. We recognize the Holy Spirit alive and working in the lives of the Apostles and saints and from this, gain confidence to respond to Christ’s call to witness to him and his Church. Today we take our turn being servants, pilgrims, and bearers of the Good News. We do so with faith that the future of the Church will fulfill Christ’s promise: “I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit.” (John 15:5) Which image of the Church appeals to me most? Why do I feel drawn to this image? 1 T2 Unit 1 The Mystery of the Church SAMPLE
them that things stored online are never truly private and they should not share passwords, even with friends. Make them aware that they must respect one another with regard to reflection notebooks. 5. You may wish to administer Reproducible 1d, Pre-test. Collect the pre-tests after young people complete them. Review the pre-tests to learn young people’s prior knowledge. Use the results to plan your lessons for the year. Save the tests. At the end of the year, give the test again (post-test) and show young people how much they have learned. 3. Prepare to send home with young people Reproducible 1a and Reproducible 1b, Family Letters. 4. Throughout the year, young people will be asked to write prayerful reflections in a reflection notebook. The parish might buy a reflection notebook for each young person, or you may have them bring their own notebook, binder, or book with blank pages. You may also choose to have young people keep an electronic journal. Note that telling young people that their reflection notebooks will not be read will make them feel freer to write honestly. However, remind Before You Begin 1. Determine whether young people will experience the media during class or at home. 2. Download from the LP Digital Library Reproducible 1a, Family Letter—The Church Then and Now; Reproducible 1b, Family Letter on Unit 1—The Mystery of the Church; Reproducible 1c, Our Church, the Church of Jesus; Reproducible 1d, Pre-test; Reproducible 1e, Four Witness Stories; and Reproducible 1h, Chapter 1 Quiz. Media in This Chapter Determine in advance if you will have young people experience the media during class or at home. Media can be accessed by scanning the QR code with a web-enabled smartphone or tablet. Families in Mission Send home the Families in Mission pages after teaching the chapter so that families can further explore the teaching, grow in faith, and be inspired to go forth as missionary disciples. Enriching the Faith Experience Use the activities at the end of the chapter to enrich a lesson or to replace an activity with one that better meets the needs of your class. Directory for Catechesis #22. Our faith in Jesus leads us to make a commitment to think like him, to judge like him, and to live like him. In doing so, we unite ourselves to the Church instituted by Jesus on the foundation of the Apostles. Dogmatic Constitution on the Church #5 (Second Vatican Council). The Church is a mystery that is brought to light in the way Jesus founded it. Dogmatic Constitution on the Church #8 (Second Vatican Council). The Church is a community of faith, hope, and love, but it is also a visible organization through which Christ communicates truth and grace to everyone. Dogmatic Constitution on the Church #62–63 (Second Vatican Council). Because Mary is the Mother of Christ the Redeemer, she is the Mother of the Church too. Dogmatic Constitution on the Church #65 (Second Vatican Council). In Mary, the Church has reached its spotless perfection. She shines forth to all of us in the Church as the model of virtues, prompting us to come to her Son and to the love of the Father. Scripture in This Chapter Matthew 28:20 Christ is with us always. 1 Corinthians 12:12–31 The Body of Christ John 10:1–16 The Sheepfold John 15:1–8 The Vine and the Branches Luke 13:20–21 The Leaven John 19:26 Woman, behold, your son. John 19:27 Behold, your mother. Luke 1:38 Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. Luke 8:19–21 Jesus and His Family John 2:1–12 The Wedding at Cana Mark 16:15 Proclaim the Gospel to every creature. Catholic Social Teaching Family and Community Rights and Responsibilities Life and Dignity Church Documents Catechism of the Catholic Church. The themes in this chapter correspond to the following paragraphs: 781–798, 829, 963–975. Preparing for the Faith Experience A Community of Disciples Chapter 1 T3 Inclusion Scan the QR code for Inclusion articles or access them from the LP Digital Library. SAMPLE
Get-Ready Guide Steps Learning Outcomes Young people will be able to Action Plan Materials Centering 5–10 minutes Pages 1–2 • identify the topic of the program (the Church) and become familiar with their books. • Do ceremony using Reproducible 1c to present the Student Books and reflection notebooks. (T5) PAGES 1–2 • Introduce the theme of the unit and have the young people tear out A Letter Home. Have them take this page home to share with their families. (T5) • OPTION Direct young people to the multimedia. (T5) • Reproducible 1a, 1b, and 1c • OPTION Items for a book presentation ceremony • Bibles • Reflection notebooks • OPTION Device with internet access Sharing 30–45 minutes Pages 3–8 • explain that the Church is a mystery. • identify scriptural images of the Church. • explain why Mary is called the Mother of the Church. • describe the role of the Holy Spirit in the Church. • define the Words to Know. mystery Trinity Church Communion of Saints Mystical Body of Christ sanctify See the Glossary for definitions. • Introduce the concept of mystery. (T6) • Read and discuss The Church and You. • Complete What’s Your Understanding of the Church? PAGE 4 • Read and discuss The People of God and The Church Is Alive. • OPTION Direct young people to the multimedia. (T7) • Introduce images of the Church. (T7) PAGES 5–6 • Read and discuss Images of the Church and How Jesus Saw It. • Complete Listening to the Good Shepherd, Explain Jesus’ Parables and Rise to the Occasion. • OPTION Do Reproducible 1e. (T9) PAGE 7 • OPTION Explain Mary as a clear image of Jesus’ perfect disciple. (T10) • Read and discuss Mary, Mother of the Church. • Complete Full of Grace. • Read aloud A Moment with Jesus. PAGE 8 • Read and discuss The Sanctifier. • Complete The Ever-Present Spirit and Saint Joseph. • OPTION Reproducible 1e Acting 5–10 minutes Pages 9–10 • reflect on how Jesus may be calling them today. PAGES 9–10 • Do Review Activities. (T11) • OPTION Complete the Pre-test. (T11) • OPTION Complete the Chapter Quiz. (T11) • OPTION Direct young people to the multimedia. (T11) • Bring closure with prayer. (T11) • OPTION Reproducible 1d • OPTION Reproducible 1h Families IN MISSION Remind young people to take home pages 11–12 to share what they are learning with their families. T4 Unit 1 The Mystery of the Church SAMPLE
UNIT 1 “[Y]ou are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18 The Mystery of the Church 1 Centering 1. Introduce yourself. Share some personal facts, such as why you chose to become involved in catechesis, parish activities, or other faith-related activities. 2. Present the Student Books and reflection notebooks, using the ceremony on Reproducible 1c, Our Church, the Church of Jesus. Give young people time to page through their books after they have written their names in them. 3. Explain how young people will keep reflection notebooks and share these tips. • Make regular entries. Write honestly and openly about thoughts and feelings. This notebook is for your relationship with Jesus. • Pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance and inspiration. • Listen to how Jesus is speaking through the people, events, and thoughts in the entries. • Keep the notebook private. If an electronic journal is used, do not share passwords, even with friends. • Reread the notebook every now and then to see how God is speaking to you and working in your life. 4. Have young people open their books to page 1. • Have a volunteer read aloud the title of Unit 1 The Mystery of the Church. • Direct young people to the images on page 1. • What do you think this unit will be about based on the title and these images? (teachings of the Church that are a mystery, the Holy Trinity, the role of the Apostles) Name REPRODUCIBLE Christ Our Life® All Rights Reserved Christ Our Life® Reproducibles w3161 www.christourlife.com 1c GRADE 8 Chapter 1 Song Leader 1: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. When Saint Francis of Assisi was young, he heard Jesus say to him one day, “Francis, you must rebuild my Church.” Francis thought Jesus meant to reconstruct the old, brokendown church of San Damiano. So Francis began to repair the church with mud, wood, and stone. But Jesus was really speaking about his universal Church. He wanted Francis to bring new life, new vision, and new loyalty to his Church. Leader 2: Today Jesus calls to each of us, “Come, rebuild my Church.” He wants us to commit our lives to building up the universal Church. He wants us to bring new life, new vision, new loyalty to the Church. But our question is “How can we build up the Church?” Let us listen to the Word of God, which will guide us. Reader: A reading from the letter of Paul to the Romans. (Romans 12:13–18,21) Contribute to the needs of the holy ones, exercise hospitality. Bless those who persecute [you], bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Have the same regard for one another; do not be haughty but associate with the lowly; do not be wise in your own estimation. Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all. If possible, on your part, live at peace with all. . . . Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good. (time for quiet reflection) Leader 1: Let us pray. Side 1: Lord, we will build up your Church by being people of prayer. Side 2: Lord, we will build up your Church by seeking unity with words and actions of healing and forgiveness. Side 1: Lord, we will build up your Church by committing ourselves to peace, by loving those who are poor, and by taking on a missionary spirit. Side 2: Lord, we will build up your Church by acting with courage, speaking the truth with patience, and accepting our share of responsibility. All: Lord, we commit ourselves to the Church because we love your Church and promise to be faithful to you. Leader 1: Christ has called us to build up his Church. We will need to use all our energies and talent to do it. Our love and loyalty to him must be fresh, powerful, and contagious. The Church needs us. Leader 2: Today we will receive our religion book, The Church Then and Now, and a notebook for our reflections. May we learn much this year to bring us closer to Jesus. (The young people come forward to receive their books and reflection notebooks. Music may be played.) All: O God, who were pleased to call your Church the Bride, grant that the people that serves your name may revere you, love you and follow you, and may be led by you to attain your promises in heaven. Amen. (Common of the Dedication of a Church) Our Church, the Church of Jesus A Letter Home At the beginning of the unit, have young people tear out page 2 and bring it home or send the entire Student Book home. Ask young people to read this letter with their parents and use the QR code found on the page to experience and discuss the media before your next class meeting. A Letter Home Our Universal Church The word catholic means “universal.” Being a universal Church means that • the message of Jesus is true in every time and in every place. • we are a worldwide Church united by the Holy Spirit for a worldwide mission. • we are a multicultural Church that follows Jesus’ example of welcoming people of every race and culture. The universal nature of the Church prepares us to be Jesus’ disciples across the world. Faith Connections Explore some of the following activities to learn more about the universal Church with your family. Discover universal lessons from the saints: A good book on the lives of the saints can show how people have lived out their faith in various cultures and times. As a family, read about the saints and share stories about your favorite saints. You will find information about the lives of saints at www.loyolapress.com/saints. Make a universal Gospel connection: Take time to read and discuss the Sunday Gospel with your family. Have family members share any words or images from the Gospel reading that stand out or have particular meaning for them. Consider what message the reading might hold for any worldwide issues or current concerns. You can find the Sunday Gospel at www.bible.usccb.org. Address a universal concern: As a family, study a global issue that concerns you and make a decision about how to respond. For example, if you are interested in protecting the environment, you might join your family in neighborhood recycling efforts. If you are concerned about world hunger, you might contribute to an international relief organization. Pray for the universal work of the Church: Choose an article from the diocesan or local newspaper that highlights the universal work of the Church (for example, missionary efforts in a developing country or a special event such as World Youth Day). Share the story with your family at dinner. After the meal, pray for the success of this ministry or event. In this unit, young people will learn about the universal nature of the Church by exploring ways they are called to bring the Gospel message of love to our neighbors, both near and far. They will complete Your Turn activities and undertake an interactive chapter review in the Review section of each chapter. At the end of each chapter of this unit, young people will bring home Families in Mission pages so that your family can further explore the the chapter content, grow in faith, and be inspired to go forth as a family of missionary disciples. The last chapter of each unit includes a unit review. Young people will find a QR code there to scan to play the Stump the Shepherd unit review game. LOOKING AHEAD Scan the QR code with a web-enabled device to view a video on the life and charism of Saint John Vianney together as a family. You will learn more about this 19th-century saint in the Families in Mission pages for Chapter 4. 2 Unit 1 Christ Our Life® 5. Point out the Scripture verse at the bottom of page 1. Tell young people this verse comes from the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament. • Invite a volunteer to read aloud the Scripture passage. • Explain that in this unit, young people will explore the mystery of the Church and what it means to be part of this mystery. 6. Direct young people to the QR code at the bottom of page 1. Explain that you will be inviting them to access media behind the code, whether it be in class via computer or tablet or at home via smartphone, computer, or tablet. A Community of Disciples Chapter 1 T5 SAMPLE
CHAPTER 1 What’s Your Understanding of the Church? Check the photo that best matches your present understanding of the Church, or describe a photo that would fit your understanding. a place where parishioners pray saints and holy people members of the parish those who are baptized the pope, bishops, and priests ministries that help those who are poor and in need other: The Church and You What memories and experiences come to mind when you think of the Church? What people? What feelings? Church experiences have probably been a part of your life since you were born. You are now at the age when you begin to see familiar things in a different light. You form attitudes, make decisions, and take on new responsibilities that will affect your life and the lives of many other people. This book will encourage you to think about and deepen your relationship with Jesus and his Church. The first step in studying the Church is to grasp what the Church is. This is not so easy because the Church is a mystery. A mystery of faith is something that can be known but never fully understood because it relates to God. The central mystery of our faith is the mystery of the Holy Trinity. We can only know about the Trinity because God has revealed himself as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. However, even when God reveals himself through his great works, he remains a mystery beyond words. Words to Know mystery A religious truth that we can know only through God’s Revelation and that we cannot fully understand Trinity The mystery of one God existing in Three Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit A Community of Disciples A Community of Disciples Chapter 1 3 Words to Know Invite a volunteer to read aloud the definitions of mystery and Trinity from the Words to Know feature. Young people can further explore the meaning of the words in the Glossary. 3. Invite young people to independently read and think about the three questions that begin The Church and You on page 3. • After a minute, ask volunteers to share their memories. • Call on someone to read aloud the next two paragraphs. 4. Have young people work the activity What’s Your Understanding of the Church? on page 3. Invite volunteers to share their responses. Explain that they will learn more about the Church this year. Sharing 1. Discuss mystery. • Ask young people to brainstorm a list of movies, TV shows, and novels that fit the category of mystery. • Ask volunteers to describe what they like best about mysteries. • The mysteries that we encounter in movies, TV shows, and novels are presented to be solved. We enjoy the challenge of trying to solve the mystery before the solution is revealed. • In the Bible, we encounter a very different understanding of mystery. According to biblical tradition, a mystery is not something to be solved but something to be experienced or entered into. • A mystery is something that we know but cannot fully understand. In other words, a mystery can be described as something that has been revealed yet remains hidden. • How would you define a mystery of faith? (something that God reveals to us that we can know and enter into but cannot fully understand) The Holy Trinity is the central mystery of our faith. What we know of the Holy Trinity comes from God’s Revelation of himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Still, we cannot fully understand a mystery of faith because it relates to God, who is much greater than any thought we can think. 2. Introduce the Church as a mystery. With the books you received today and with the help of the Holy Spirit, you will begin your journey of entering more deeply into another great mystery of our faith: the Church. T6 Unit 1 The Mystery of the Church SAMPLE
The People of God Even theologians, those who study the nature of God and all things related to him, do not have a complete understanding of the Church. Some things cannot be neatly captured in words. The mystery we call the Church is perhaps most simply defined as “the People of God.” The word Church means “convocation,” and it refers to those called and gathered together to form the People of God. The Church is the baptized people from all times and all countries who, like you, believe in and follow Jesus. Nourished by his Body, we become the Body of Christ on earth. Because of creation and our own human reason, we know that God exists. God has revealed himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit through his great deeds and words. Believing is a free human act—a gift made possible by the Holy Spirit. Believing is also an act of the Church, whose faith comes before ours, supporting and nourishing it. The Church is the means and goal of God’s plan for us. We are made by God to live with God. Therefore, we are religious by nature and by God’s call. Jesus made possible our response to God’s call. When sin separated us from God, God the Son, without losing his divinity, became fully human and redeemed us. Jesus freely gave his own life to atone for all our sins. By his Death and Resurrection, we again have the hope for eternal life for which God created us. Jesus—the visible image of the invisible God—is the founder and head of the Church. Through the Church, we come to know God’s plan of salvation. Jesus promised his followers, “I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) Jesus gathers his disciples—all those who believe in and follow him—into a community, the Church. The Church, then, is a community of disciples and a Communion of Saints. Community comes from the Latin word for oneness. Church members are one in their faith in Jesus. As a member of the Church through Baptism, your belief in Jesus and your love for him unite you with all the other members of his Church. Through you, Jesus continues to proclaim the Good News and reach out to others with love. He works through you to bring justice to the world and peace to all people. The Church Is Alive Like Jesus, the Church is both human and divine. She is a human society in which God is present and acting. This is another mystery of our faith. In and through the Holy Spirit and the Church, Jesus has been present to his people since he returned to his Father over two thousand years ago. Jesus is alive and acting in the world today through the Church—through you! Because of this, you love the Church and desire to grow in your understanding of her. You are faithful to her because she was given to us by Jesus. 4 Unit 1 The Mystery of the Church 7. If feasible, have young people scan the QR code on page 4 using a handheld, web-enabled device to experience the media. • Jesus lived at a certain time in a certain place. To extend his life and mission to people everywhere down through the centuries, he established the Church. • Through the Church—all those who believe in and follow him— Jesus continues to love, teach, and heal. He is able to touch our lives with his saving power. • The more images of the Church we know, the better we can understand her. • Let’s look at six images that the Bible gives to help us grasp the meaning of Church. Rights and Responsibilities 5. Have young people read independently The People of God on page 4. • Check young people’s understanding of this section. • Who belongs to the Church? (baptized people from all times and all countries who believe in and follow Jesus; disciples of Jesus belong to the Church) • How is Jesus related to the Church? (Jesus, without losing his divinity, became human and redeemed us, making it possible for us to be God’s people; he is the founder and head of the Church.) Family and Community Words to Know Invite a volunteer to read aloud the definitions of Church and Communion of Saints from the Words to Know feature. Young people can further explore the meaning of the words in the Glossary. 6. Have a volunteer read aloud The Church Is Alive on page 4. • Ask young people to describe what an extension cord does. (It brings electrical power across a distance.) • Can anyone explain how an extension cord might be a symbol for the Church? (The Church extends the power and presence of Jesus through time and space. Jesus is alive today through the Church, through us.) • How is the Church both divine and human? (She is a human society in which God is present.) As a human society, the Church is not perfect. Instead we strive for holiness, trying to be our best selves each day of our lives. Pope Francis tells us, “Holiness is the most attractive face of the Church.” A Community of Disciples Chapter 1 T7 SAMPLE
Images of the Church Scripture uses images that help us understand the mystery of the Church. It compares the Church to things we know. As you read about the following images, discuss what you have learned. Saint Paul called the Church the Body of Christ. He referred to Christ as the head and to us as members of that Mystical (spiritual) Body. Read 1 Corinthians 12:12–31. As the Body of Christ, the Church receives her life from Jesus. The Church exists in and for Christ, and he lives with and in the Church. The Church is also called the Temple of the Holy Spirit because God the Holy Spirit dwells with the Church and is the soul of the Mystical Body of Christ. He is the source of her life, unity, and gifts and charisms. Jesus is the Cornerstone, and we are the living stones that build her. Another scriptural image of the Church is the bride of Christ. Christ loved her so much that he died for her and made her holy. He constantly cares for her and gives her gifts. He joins her to himself in a covenant of love. Someday she will be united with Christ in glory. How Jesus Saw It Jesus spoke of the Church as a sign of his kingdom on earth. He used images in parables to tell us about her. Read each of the following noted Scripture passages. Use the activities to consider ways you will become a more active member of the Church. The Sheepfold Jesus tells us in John 10:1–16 that he is the Good Shepherd and that his kingdom is like a sheepfold, or a shelter for the protection of sheep. The Good Shepherd’s love is so great that he lays down his life for his sheep. Jesus also calls himself the gate for the sheep because only through him can we enter the kingdom. All those who have faith in Jesus belong to the sheepfold. Listening to the Good Shepherd What does Jesus say will happen when all people listen to his voice? (John 10:16) There will be one flock, one shepherd. Check one way you will respond because you follow the Good Shepherd, or include an idea of your own. I will be loving and generous like him. pray for the growth of the Church. share my faith with others. show Jesus that I rely on him by regularly celebrating Reconciliation and the Eucharist. reach out to those who feel excluded. Words to Know Church The people of God throughout the whole world, or diocese (the local Church), or the assembly of those called together to worship God Communion of Saints The unity of all, dead or living, who have been saved through the Death, Resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus Christ Mystical Body of Christ The members of the Church formed into a spiritual body and bound together by the life communicated by Jesus Christ through the sacraments A Community of Disciples Chapter 1 5 Word to Know Invite a volunteer to read aloud the definition of Mystical Body of Christ from the Words to Know feature. Young people can further explore the meaning of the word in the Glossary. 9. Invite volunteers to read aloud How Jesus Saw It on pages 5–6. • Have volunteers locate the three Scripture passages in their Bibles. Invite the volunteers to read them aloud. • Allow time for young people to work on the activities independently. Family and Community BRIDE OF CHRIST • What kind of love do a bride and groom have for each other? (A bride and groom have a total, exclusive, permanent love.) What does this love tell us about Jesus and the Church? (Christ and his Church have a deep, permanent love.) • Why does Jesus call heaven a wedding feast? (In heaven, the Church will be united with God forever. Heaven is a celebration of the love between God and the Church.) 8. Have volunteers read aloud Images of the Church on page 5. • Discuss with young people how to locate passages in the Bible. You may wish to have them read silently or in pairs The Bible on page 301 for a review. • Have young people work in groups or pairs to locate 1 Corinthians 12:12–31 in the Bible. • Have a volunteer read it aloud. Then use the following questions to discuss each image. BODY OF CHRIST • Think about the relationship of your body and its parts, or members. Why does your body need its members? (Each part of the body has a distinct function. Our bodies are composed of all these parts, or members. Each member needs the others. It can’t survive alone or do the work of the others.) What happens when part of your body is hurt or injured? (When one part is hurt, the rest of your body suffers too.) • What does this image say about our relationship with Christ and with one another? (This image says that Christ is very close to us, loves us as he loves himself, and can do certain things only if we do them. It says that all the members of the Church need one another.) TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT • Why is the Holy Spirit considered the soul of the Mystical Body? (The Holy Spirit dwells with the Church and is the source of its life, unity, and gifts and charisms.) • The cornerstone of a building is the most important stone. What makes Jesus the Cornerstone of the Church? (Jesus began the Church. He saved her and gives her life.) • Why is each stone in a building necessary? (Each stone contributes to the whole. Without each stone, a building is not complete. It is flawed.) T8 Unit 1 The Mystery of the Church SAMPLE
Rise to the Occasion Check one way you will be leaven and use your words or actions to make the world a better place, or include an idea of your own. I will bring a spirit of forgiveness and unselfishness to all my dealings with others. I will do what I can to bring love and peace to my family. I will perform random acts of kindness and generosity. Possible response: I will be kind to my siblings. Dear Friend, Yours in Christ, The Vine and the Branches In John 15:1–8, we read that Jesus is the vine. Members of the Church are the branches. In order for a branch to grow and bear fruit, it cannot be separated from the vine. The vine gives the branches life. Through Jesus, you and other church members live and grow. When you are united to Jesus and share his life, you are a healthy branch and bear much fruit. In other words, you recognize God’s goodness in your life, and you share it with others. Explain Jesus’ Parables Imagine you are part of a parish ministry group that is helping people understand Jesus’ parables. Write a brief letter based on John 15:1–8 to people who are not familiar with the stories of the New Testament. Explain what it means to bear fruit and mention some of the fruits we bear when we are close to Jesus. Also note what the passage tells us about how we can glorify God. The Leaven The power of Jesus changes the world like yeast changes dough and makes it rise. In Luke 13:20–21, Jesus uses an example most would have recognized from their own homes to teach about the kingdom. In Jesus’ time, people baked their own bread. If yeast, a kind of leaven, is added to dough, the yeast reproduces and grows. Soon the yeast spreads throughout the entire mixture, causing the dough to bubble and rise. The yeast changes everything. Instead of a flat bread, the dough bakes into an airy leavened loaf. You are the leaven of Jesus when you become like him and proclaim the kingdom with your life. Your words and actions work to change the world into a different and better place. 6 PETER’S STORY • Lying is never acceptable. The person loses friends, peace, and friendship with God. • For Peter to say the teacher is telling about the incident because she doesn’t like him is to blame another person rather than to assume responsibility for his actions. • Getting even will cause more hurt and unhappiness. It leads to a loss of self-respect and does not help a person learn responsibility. • By pleading with his parents to defend him, Peter is asking his parents to lie. He should have the courage to be truthful with those who can help him live up to his responsibilities. ANA’S STORY • Telling a lie is a sin. This lie would be caused by jealousy. • Ignoring the situation is unfair to Ana. Pretending it didn’t happen is another kind of lie. Maya should own up to her behavior and face the situation in an honest way. • Ignoring Isabelle is avoiding the problem and creating a new one. Maya needs to reconcile with her friend and treat both girls with respect. • Maya can reconcile her behavior by being a peacemaker in the situation. Introducing the two friends and forming a new friendship is one way to witness to Jesus. 10. OPTION Have young people work on Reproducible 1e, Four Witness Stories. • Discuss the answers. These points may be made: KEVIN’S STORY • Kevin does need to pray more, but prayer is not a substitute for living out the teachings of Jesus. • Trying not to get caught solves nothing. We must take responsibility for our actions and do what is right, even if someone in authority is not watching. • Faith-based games may be a good choice of entertainment, but Kevin will still need to manage how much time he spends playing them. His schoolwork and responsibilities with family should take priority over time he spends online. • Kevin’s parents may need to be involved in this situation with Mrs. Wills. However, Kevin must first be accountable for his actions and the decision he made to cheat. Every person has the responsibility to be honest. LUCIA AND MARY’S STORY • By asking their parents to pay, Lucia and Mary are not making restitution. • Quitting student council and never helping again is giving up responsibility and not learning to live up to what Christ calls them to be. • Sister Margaret should forgive the girls and try to teach them to be truthful, but she might have to check on their honesty. Taking them off student council will not help them grow in responsibility. • Sister Margaret should not discontinue the girls’ attendance at school functions. This would neither build up the trust the girls need nor encourage them to take responsibility for their own actions. Name Score REPRODUCIBLE Christ Our Life® All Rights Reserved Christ Our Life® Reproducibles w3161 www.christourlife.com GRADE 8 Chapter 1 1e Four Witness Stories You witness to the community of believers every day. Read these stories. Check (✓) the best answers. 1. Kevin stared at the test. He knew only a few answers. Instead of studying, he had stayed up late playing games online. Kevin could see Jessica’s answers. He copies them carefully them until he felt the presence of Mrs. Wills next to him. She picked up the test. “I’ll see you after class,” she said. Kevin could be a witness to Jesus in the future by praying more. ✓ being honest. trying not to get caught. Kevin could grow in Christian responsibility by playing only faith-based games. ✓ using his time more appropriately. having his parents talk to Mrs. Wills for him. 2. The cafeteria monitor reported that Lucia and Mary, student council members in charge of selling ice cream, were giving ice cream to their friends for free. Sister Margaret, their teacher, was disappointed. These were two of her most dependable students. She had trusted them. Lucia and Mary could witness to Christ by ✓ offering to make restitution for the ice cream they gave away for free. asking their parents to pay for the ice cream. quitting student council and never helping again. Sister Margaret could help these girls grow in Christian responsibility by ✓ forgiving them and trying to teach them honesty. taking them off the student council. not allowing them to attend school assemblies that week. 3. Ana overheard Maya and Isabelle talking about her. Maya had been Ana’s friend since first grade. When Ana asked Maya about it, Maya changed the subject. She knew that Ana’s feelings were hurt because of her behavior. Maya could be a witness to Jesus by telling Ana a lie about Isabelle. pretending nothing happened. ✓ asking Ana for forgiveness. Maya could grow in Christian responsibility by ignoring Isabelle. choosing only one friend. ✓ being a good friend to both Ana and Isabelle. 4. Peter overheard his parents talking. “That was Peter’s teacher on the phone,” his mother said. “She says Peter was involved in bullying another child on the field trip.” “Peter? Bullying? She’s probably exaggerating,” his father replied. “She said he started some of it.” “How does she know that Peter was involved?” asked his dad. “She said some of the boys admitted being part of it. They all say Peter was in on it. She also sent a note home, but I never saw it. Did you?” His father was angry. “No. Get Peter. He’d better have an explanation for this.” To be a witness to Jesus, Peter should lie and hope he isn’t caught. ✓ admit his responsibility. say the teacher is bringing this up because she doesn’t like him. Peter could grow in Christian responsibility by getting even with the boys who told. ✓ taking the punishment and having the courage not to bully anyone. begging his parents to defend him. A Community of Disciples Chapter 1 T9 SAMPLE
16. Have a young person read aloud the directions for The Ever-Present Spirit on page 8. • Allow young people to complete the activity on their own. • Invite volunteers to share their ideas. 17. Have a volunteer read aloud the directions to Saint Joseph on page 8. • Why is Saint Joseph a good patron for the Church? (He was the foster father of Jesus. He continues to care for the Body of Christ. He was human.) • Have young people complete the activity on their own. • Invite volunteers to share their answers. 15. Invite a volunteer to read aloud The Sanctifier on page 8. • With and through the Holy Spirit, Mary conceived and gave birth to Jesus. The Holy Spirit works with and through us to help us be Christ for the world. • Can you give examples of how the Holy Spirit is the allpowerful life-giver in Scripture? In your lives? (Example: Genesis, Chapter 1) Word to Know Invite a volunteer to read aloud the definition for sanctify from the Word to Know feature. Young people can further explore the meaning of the word in the Glossary. Mary, Mother of the Church At the Annunciation, Mary became the mother of the Son of God. From the beginning, she collaborated with Jesus’ work of salvation. At the foot of the Cross, Mary became mother of Jesus’ Mystical Body, the Church. While Jesus hung on the Cross, he saw Mary and his faithful disciple John standing there. He said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” (John 19:26) Then he said to John, “Behold, your mother.” (John 19:27) John represented all beloved disciples of Jesus. By referring to Mary as John’s mother, Jesus was saying she was the mother of all who believe. Mary believed and responded to God all her life. She was close to Jesus and always open to what God wanted. Because of this, she is an example for all of us. Mary, the first disciple of Jesus, showed us what it is like to be a perfect follower of him. The qualities of Mary should be found in the Church: humility, obedience, love, and compassion. During the Second Vatican Council, Mary was given the new title Mother of the Church. If we follow the example of Mary, our Mother, and turn to her for help, we will be strong members of the Church. Full of Grace Look up the following Scripture passages. For each passage write one or more words that describe a characteristic or quality of Mary portrayed in the passage. Luke 1:38 open, prayerful Luke 8:19–21 obedient, responsive John 2:1–12 generous, caring, thoughtful John 19:25–27 faithful A Moment with Jesus Each of these images—sheepfold, vine and branches, leaven—gives you a glimpse into who and what the Church is. Take a moment now to reflect on one of these images. Silently read the Scripture passage that describes this image. Pause for a few moments and ask Jesus to help you deepen your relationship with him and with his Church. Thank Jesus for making you a member of his Church. A Community of Disciples Chapter 1 7 11. OPTION Introduce the concept of Mary as being a clear image of Christ’s perfect disciple. • A mirror reflects a clear image of ourselves. If the mirror is cracked or smudged, the image is not a true image. • Mary, the mother of the Son of God, was a perfect disciple. Examining her life will tell us about Jesus and help us see how we should live. • Mary is not only an image of Jesus’ perfect disciple; she is also the Mother of the Church. 12. Invite a volunteer to read aloud Mary, Mother of the Church on page 7. • What is one of Mary’s most recent titles? (Mother of the Church) Why does this title fit her? (Mary is the mother of the Son of God. Since the Church is the Body of Christ, she is her mother too. By being obedient to God, Mary made it possible for us to receive eternal life. She teaches us how to live, and she prays for us.) • How is Mary’s relationship to Jesus an example for us? (Her closeness to Jesus and openness to doing what he wanted are what we strive for.) • Why is Mary a clear image of Jesus’ perfect disciple? (She showed us what it is like to be a perfect follower of Christ.) 13. Have young people work through the activity Full of Grace on page 7. A Moment with Jesus 14. Lead young people in prayer. • Invite a volunteer to read aloud A Moment with Jesus on page 7. • Allow young people to spend some quiet time with Jesus. • After a minute or two of silence, move on to the next activity. T10 Unit 1 The Mystery of the Church SAMPLE
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