Finding God Kindergarten - Teacher Edition

Our Response to God’s Gifts

GRADE

K

A GES 4 –

6

Parish Catechist Guide

Contents

Program Overview

OV-4

Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OV-4

Program Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OV-6

Inside the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OV-10

Scope and Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OV-24

Art Prints at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OV-30

The Effective Catechist

EC-1

A Catechist’s Role . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-1

Sacred Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-2

Presentation Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-3

How to Lead Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-4 Diversity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-6

Inclusion: Special Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-8 Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-10

The First Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EC-12

Unit 1

Catechist Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1a, 9a, 15a, 21a, 27a

God, Our Creator and Father

1

Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5

God Creates the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 God Creates People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Adam and Eve Make a Choice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 God Promises a Savior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Celebrating Ordinary Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Unit 2

Catechist Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31a, 39a, 45a, 51a, 57a

Jesus, Our Lord and Savior

Mary Says Yes to God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Joseph Says Yes to God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Jesus Is Our Friend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Jesus Heals Us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Celebrating Advent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Session 6 Session 7 Session 8 Session 9 Session 10

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Contents OV-1

Contents

Unit 3

Catechist Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61a, 69a, 75a, 81a, 87a

The Church, Our Community in the Spirit

God Gathers Us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Jesus Calls His Disciples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 God Sends the Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Jesus Leads Us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Celebrating Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Session 11 Session 12 Session 13 Session 14 Session 15

Unit 4

61

Catechist Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91a, 99a, 105a, 111a, 117a

Sacraments, Our Way of Life

Jesus Calls Us to Pray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 The Church Celebrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 The Church Welcomes Us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Jesus Shares a Special Meal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Celebrating Lent and Holy Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Session 16 Session 17 Session 18 Session 19 Session 20

Unit 5

91

Catechist Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121a, 129a, 135a, 141a, 147a

Morality, Our Lived Faith

God Calls Us to Make Good Choices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 God Calls Us to Love Our Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 God Calls Us to Forgive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 God Calls Us to Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Celebrating Easter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Session 21 Session 22 Session 23 Session 24 Session 25

Seasonal Sessions

121

Catechist Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151a

The Year in Our Church

151

Advent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157 Lent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Holy Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 Easter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169 Pentecost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

All Saints Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

OV-2

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Contents

Prayers and Practices of Our Faith

181

Knowing and Praying Our Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183 Celebrating Our Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190 Living Our Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192 Songs of Our Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195 What I See at Mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204

Picture Glossary

206

Catechist Glossary

208

Index

215

Children’s Book Acknowledgments

219

Art Print Catechist Pages

Unit 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-221 Unit 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-226 Unit 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-231 Unit 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-236 Unit 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-241

Recorded Scripture Story Scripts

Session 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-247 Session 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-248 Session 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-249 Session 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-250 Session 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T-251

Recorded Guided Reflection Scripts

T-252

Session 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Session 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Session 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Session 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Session 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

T-252 T-253 T-254 T-255 T-256

Blackline Masters, Unit Assessments, Answer Key

T-257

T-221

T-247

Acknowledgments

T-304

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Contents OV-3

CATECHIST PREPARATION UNIT 1

God, Our Creator and Father Unit 1 focuses on God’s creation and the fulfilled promise of Jesus Christ. In this unit, the children will learn the following concepts.

Session 1

God Creates the World

To show his love for us, God creates the beautiful world and everything in it.

We thank God by caring for the plants, animals, and people he created.

Session 2

God Creates People

UNIT SAINT

God created us to be like him. People are the best part of all that God creates.

God loves us and cares for us because we are special to him.

Session 3

Adam and Eve Make a Choice

God created the first people, Adam and Eve, and told them the rules he wanted them to follow. God wants us to follow his rules.

Session 4

God Promises a Savior

God kept his promise and sent Jesus to be our Savior. Jesus is the Son of God.

Session 5

Celebrating Ordinary Time

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus Thérèse Martin entered the Carmelite monastery in Lisieux, France, in 1888 when she was 15 years old.

She focused on showing her devotion to God in every daily thought and action— described as her “little way.”

She was canonized in 1925 as Saint Thérèse of Lisieux and is also known as “The Little Flower.”

Children will learn the meaning of Ordinary Time, why we celebrate it, and how Ordinary Time is celebrated in our Church.

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UNIT 1 1a

CATECHIST PREPARATION

Prayer in Unit 1

TOGETHER as One Parish

In each session of Unit 1, demonstrate ways to pray and set a reverent tone. Children are taught to fold their hands, close their eyes, and bow their heads. They learn to pray the Sign of the Cross, and a short guided reflection leads them in their own prayer of thanksgiving. Every prayer in the unit provides an opportunity for silent prayer as children learn to communicate with God.

Catholic Social Teaching in Unit 1 In 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. The following themes of Catholic social teaching are integrated into this unit.

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 the things God makes. We are called to make moral and ethical choices that protect the ecological balance of creation both locally and worldwide.

Call to Family, Community, and Participation Participation in family and community is central to our faith and to a healthy society. Families must be supported so that people can participate in society, build a community spirit, and promote the well-being of all, especially those who are poor and vulnerable.

Rights and Responsibilities Every person has a right to life as well as a right to those things required for human decency. As Catholics we have a responsibility to protect these basic human rights in order to achieve a healthy society.

The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers The basic rights of workers must be respected: the right to productive work, fair wages, and private property; and the right to organize, join unions, and pursue economic opportunity. Catholics believe that the economy is meant to serve people and that work is not merely a way to make a living but an important way in which we participate in God’s creation.

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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.

Literature Opportunity Drop by Drop by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Published by Loyola Press.

You might wish to read aloud this story about a girl named Sylvie, how her village needed water, and how Catholic Relief Services worked to help.

God’s Creation

CATECHIST PREPARATION SES SION 1

God Creates the World Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 1

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.

Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of session content.

Genesis 1:31

Scripture

God looked at everything he had made, and found it

Genesis 1:31 tells that on the sixth day, God looked at everything he created and found it very good.

very good.

Tradition

Reflection We begin this year by introducing children to the wonders of God’s creation, the importance and comfort of prayer, and the presence of God’s unconditional love.

We begin at the beginning with the first chapter of Genesis and celebrate the many gifts that God has given us, gifts that underscore the depth of his love and care.

Question How can I help children understand God’s love for them?

Genesis reminds us that God created the world for us and calls us to grow in relationship with him. We do not take the precious gifts that God has given us for granted, and we show our thanks by sharing these gifts with others. We learn from Saint Thérèse that we can serve God in the many small, good works that we do every day. We follow her example to find ways to glorify God and share his love.

Catholic Social Teaching Prayer Speak to God, using these words or your own.

Heavenly Father, help me share my faith, my devotion, and my joy with the children in my care as I introduce them to your gifts and your love.

In 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 Catechism CCC 287–289 discusses how the Scriptures help us understand the role of God in creation.

General Directory for Catechesis Catechesis that is centered on Jesus leads us to understand the Father of all creation. This is discussed in GDC 100.

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UNIT 1 • Session 1 1c

CATECHIST PREPARATION

One-Hour Session Planner SESSION 1

God Creates the World

Session Theme: God has created a beautiful world for us.

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. 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 Thérèse of the Child Jesus God’s Colorful World

PAGES 1–2

PAGE 3

Explore God Creates Everything We Care for the World

PAGE 5 ART PRINT AND PRINT BACK

Reflect

15–20 minutes

PAGE 6

We Pray the Sign of the Cross

PAGE 7

Respond Living My Faith

In this first session, begin to establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The short opening prayer of thanks and 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 teach and review the words and gestures.

30–40 minutes

PAGE 4

Art Print: God Creates Animals

Prayer: You Can Pray

10 minutes

Prayer in Session 1

5–10 minutes

PAGE 8

Materials REQUIRED

IF TIME ALLOWS

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Nature or gardening magazines

▶▶ Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure ▶▶ Art Print 1: God Creates Animals

and Explore Art Print 1 BLM. ▶▶ Poster: Sign of the Cross ▶▶ Art supplies

(page 3)

(page 5)

▶▶ Color construction paper (page 3) ▶▶ Session 1 BLM, T-257 (page 4) ▶▶ Computer to view nature clip

(page 4)

▶▶ CD Player ▶▶ CD 1, Track 1: “Creation” (4:25)

1d www.findinggod.com

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▶▶ Recycling bins and cardboard boxes

All rights reserved.

▶▶ Art supplies, construction paper

(page 7) ▶▶ Session 1 Assessment,

www.findinggod.com (page 8)

ENGAGE

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus

Choose one approach to open the unit.

5-Minute Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . below Optional Unit Opener . . . . . . . . . . next page

5-MINUTE APPROACH Children’s Pages

1 Begin UNIT

1

God, Our Creator and Father 1

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus

2 Introduce the Saint Have children turn to page 1, the Unit Opener saint page. Read aloud the unit title and say: We will learn about God, our Creator and Father. Read aloud the name Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus. Say: Saint Thérèse loved flowers. She loved God’s creation.

Read aloud and discuss page 2. Ask children to color the picture.

Say: We will make a little book that tells about Saint Thérèse. A saint is a person who lived a good, holy life as a follower of Jesus and who now lives with Jesus in heaven. Guide children to tear out and fold the Unit 1 saint booklet at the back of the book.

Read aloud page A, inviting them to track the words with their finger. Show children the country of France on a globe or map. Say: Thérèse was born in France almost 150 years ago. She was such a good woman that we still learn about her today!

Read aloud pages B, C, and D. Have children complete the activity on page D and share it with a partner. Then ask children to turn to page 3 in their books.

Saint Thérèse and her simple life lead us to God. Color the picture of Saint Thérèse.

all, go You can do sm

one re that shows Draw a pictu do for God. n ca u yo ” thing

“little

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

in Thérèse lived France.

She loved God art. with all her he

Fold

2

se S a in t T h é rè J e s u s d il h o f th e C

od things too.

Have children form a circle and sit on the floor.

Hold up a Children’s Book. Say: We’ll use this book to help us learn about God. Now I want to learn about you. I will pass around the book. When it’s your turn to hold the book, say your name and tell us your favorite thing that you do with your family.

Invite children to hold the book and introduce themselves. Then say: Now that we know a little more about one another, let’s keep learning! After children return to their seats, distribute a copy of the Children’s Book to each child.

B/W line art.

A

D

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UNIT 1 1

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

TOGETHER

OPTIONAL UNIT OPENER Intergenerational Event

1 Prepare Work with your catechetical leader to use the Finding God Together kit to plan your first intergenerational event for Unit 1.

2 Open the Event Gather 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 the entertaining skit.

3 Implement the

Unit 1

GRADE

K

Use Finding God Together to help families learn more about the saints at their grade-level saint stations. Kindergarten saint posters, station directions, and saint station blackline masters are available at www.loyolapress .com/intergenerational-eventskit-resources.htm.

W1438

Saint Stations

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus Feast Day: October 1

IDEAS TO SHARE Events Guide Finding God Together: An Intergenerational Events Guide

by Mary Lynn Hendrickson and Tom McGrath

4 Close Gather families for a guided reflection. Use Finding God Together to close the event.

TOGETHER

5 Transition to

Children’s Book

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

E VEN TS G U I D E

2 www.findinggod.com

AGES 4–6

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Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus Thérèse entered the Carmelite monastery at age 15. She devoted herself to God daily in thought and action— her “little way.” Thérèse’s simplicity inspires millions.

She was canonized in 1925.

Thérèse is also known as Saint Thérèse of Lisieux and “The Little Flower.”

Her parents were canonized at the Synod of the Family in 2015.

ENGAGE

God Creates the World

SESSION

1

SES SION 1 OUTCOMES ▶▶ Explain that God creates the world

and everything in it. ▶▶ Demonstrate care for God’s world. ▶▶ Pray the Sign of the Cross.

God’s Colorful World

▶▶ Define create, God, and pray.

Black is the sky at night.

Orange is the carrot.

Yellow is the sunshine.

Green is the parrot.

1 Set the Stage Play a game. Call out the following colors: black, orange, yellow, and green. Invite volunteers to point out an object that matches each color.

Play using various colors until each child has had a turn. Say: Our world is full of color. Who made our world and all the colorful things in it? (God) Let’s listen to the story of Creation.

Play for children the Scripture story titled “Creation” [CD 1, Track 1] or read it aloud using the script on page T-247 of the Catechist Guide.

God made them all With love and with care— Our colorful world, Our world to share.

Prayer

2 Get Started

Loving God, thank you for creating all things.

SESSION 1 • God Creates the World

3

IF TIME ALLOWS

Color Sort In advance, cut pictures from magazines of things found in nature that are various colors. Cut out at least three pictures for each color.

Say: These are all God’s creation. Have children sit in a circle. Place the pictures faceup on the floor in no particular order. Work as a group to sort the pictures by color.

God’s Creation

Color March Tape to the floor large rectangles cut from black, orange, yellow, and green construction paper. Read aloud the poem again, asking children to walk to each color rectangle as you read aloud the name. Stop after each line and ask children to name other things God has made that are the same color. Then have children return to their seats.

Say: Let’s read a poem about God’s creation. Have children open their books to page 3. Read aloud the session title and the poem, inviting children to track the words with a finger. Discuss each line of the poem.

Explain to children that God made all things.

Prayer Demonstrate how to fold hands in prayer. Say: Now close your eyes and bow your head. Pray aloud the prayer slowly and reverently. Together pray Amen.

God’s Creation

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UNIT 1 • Session 1 3

1 Begin

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

God Creates All Things God loves us. God creates the world and everything in it.

Invite children to take a flower from a bouquet. Ask them to notice their flower’s shape and tiny details.

Have children gently touch the flower and sniff it. Talk about what they see, feel, and smell. Then have children place the flowers in a vase.

After the bouquet is formed, say: God made flowers and they are good.

Have children repeat the words with you. [Adapt this for children with allergies.]

Draw a line to match each word to the picture that shows God’s creation.

day night world

2 Connect Have children open their books to page 4. Read aloud the title and the sentences. Say: God creates wonderful things for us to enjoy because he loves us. Have children circle the words God and creates. Say: These words are printed in heavy type because they are important. Help children find the words in the Glossary. Read aloud and discuss the definitions.

Then read aloud the directions in blue type. Give children time to complete the activity. Afterwards invite children to give other examples of things God creates.

plants animals

Reading God’s Word

God looked at everything he had made, and found it very good.

Genesis 1:31 4

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

3 Close

Session 1 BLM

Direct children’s attention to the feature at the bottom of page 4.

God Creates the World Have children complete the Session 1 Blackline Master [T-257] to highlight that God makes all things.

Message Through Media: Nature Clip

Reading God’s Word

Have children view a 5- to 10-minute nature clip from a video-sharing site that you have already previewed for content. Then discuss the importance of all of God’s creation, no matter how large or small.

Remind children that everything God creates—from the tiny ant to the tallest mountain—is good.

Read aloud the verse from the Bible as children follow along in their books.

God’s Creation

Using the Glossary Tell children that the Glossary is a special section at the back of the book. Explain that the meanings of the words in heavy type are in the Glossary. Practice finding words with children.

4 www.findinggod.com

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EXPLORE

EXPLORE

We Care for the World The world is beautiful and needs our care.

1 Begin Take children to a location where there are plants to water. Give each child a small paper cup. Invite children to scoop water from a pail and water the plants. If indoors, help children wipe up any spills with paper towels. When you return to class, ask: How did we just take care of the plants?

Why did we do this? (Answers will vary.)

Draw yourself in God’s beautiful world.

2 Connect Read aloud the title and the sentence on page 5. Ask: What are some ways that we can care for the earth?

(Answers will vary.) What are some ways that we can care for animals? (Answers will vary.) What are some ways that we can care for people? (Answers will vary.)

Read aloud the directions. Have children complete the activity.

God’s Creation

Did You Know?

We read about God and his creation in a book called the Bible.

Art Time

SESSION 1 • God Creates the World

5

IF TIME ALLOWS

Did You Know?

Read aloud this feature. Display a Bible. Say: Look at Reading God’s Word on page 4. Those words are from the Bible. The Bible contains the Word of God.

3 Close

Service: Recycling In advance, arrange with your catechetical leader to place recycling bins in prominent places in accordance with your parish’s recycling plan. Bring in cardboard boxes for classrooms and provide art supplies. Have children make box labels that say Cans, Bottles, and Paper and then decorate the boxes. Help children distribute the boxes and periodically empty them.

God’s Creation

Invitation to Inclusion 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. For more inclusion ideas, see pages EC-8–EC-9.

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God Creates Animals

Art Time Display Art Print 1: God Creates Animals. Use the instruction on the back of the Art Print or on Catechist Guide page T-221.

Also, use the Explore Art Print 1 Blackline Master.

UNIT 1 • Session 1 5

REFLECT Prayer

You Can Pray

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

You can listen to and talk to God. We call this prayer.

Children’s Page

You can pray to God every day.

Prepare Invite children to gather in the prayer center with their books. Place the Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure on the prayer table. Help children settle in. Say: Sometimes when we pray, we become quiet and still. Read aloud page 6 and point out the word pray in heavy type.

Help children find the word in the Glossary. Read aloud and discuss the definition.

You can pray about anything!

Begin and end your prayers with the Sign of the Cross.

Pray Demonstrate how to fold your hands in prayer. Say: When we fold our hands in prayer, we press our palms together, point our fingers to the sky, and keep our fingers close together.

Invite children to practice folding their hands. Walk around the room and gently show children how to modify the way they are folding their hands, as needed.

Say: Sometimes we pray using our own words, and sometimes we pray using special words. Demonstrate how to offer a simple prayer. Pray aloud: Dear God, thank you for all the beautiful things you create. Help me find you in the places and people I meet today. Ask children to bow their heads, close their eyes, and fold their hands. Invite them to offer to God their own prayer silently. Encourage them to speak to God from their hearts. Pause briefly before praying together Amen.

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UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

FYI

Places for Prayer

Coaching Children to Pray

Take children to church and invite them to fold their hands and offer a silent prayer. Say: Church is a good place to pray. It is God’s house.

Find suggestions for leading children in prayer on pages EC-4–EC-5.

6 www.findinggod.com

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Face the children as you demonstrate the gestures for the Sign of the Cross. Then explain that it will be easier for children to follow along if your back is to them. Pray aloud the words slowly and reverently as you demonstrate each gesture, especially as you touch your left shoulder and cross over to the right shoulder.

REFLECT

REFLECT

We Pray the Sign of the Cross

1 Begin Display the Sign of the Cross poster.

Read aloud the title and text on page 7. Say: We often begin and end a prayer with the Sign of the Cross.

It is a special prayer that we can pray together.

To pray the Sign of the Cross, we say: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

2 Connect Have children look at the pictures at the bottom of page 7. Ask them to raise their right hands. Begin by teaching only the gestures, exaggerating the movements very slowly as children follow along.

Repeat several times, inviting children to join you. Say: Now we will add the words. Repeat, adding the words and asking children to pray aloud each line while crossing themselves.

Read aloud the directions in blue type. Ask a volunteer to stand up and show each step with words and gestures. Then have children add the numbers in their books. Offer help if needed.

We use our hands too.

Number the steps of the Sign of the Cross.

SESSION 1 • God Creates the World

7

IF TIME ALLOWS

Craft Time Handy Prayer Cards Have children follow these directions to complete the craft. Model each step. Provide additional help, as needed.

Materials: art supplies, construction paper

3 Close Point to the Sign of the Cross poster.

Say: This poster will help you learn to pray the Sign of the Cross. When you get home today, be sure to show your family how you learned to pray the Sign of the Cross. They’ll be so glad you know how!

1. Fold a sheet of construction paper in half vertically.

2. Trace one hand on the paper, keeping fingers together, pinky and outer palm along the crease.

3. Cut out the tracing, except for the vertical crease where the pinky and outer palm were. This will form a card that looks like praying hands.

4. Decorate the card. On the inside, write and complete the sentence: When I pray, I thank God for .

5. Take the card home to share with your family.

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UNIT 1 • Session 1 7

Faith Summary Read aloud the summary and discuss the ideas. Have children trace the words God, creates, and pray. Review the meaning of each word in the Glossary.

2 Connect

L i v i n g My Fa i t h

1 Begin

RESPOND

RESPOND

Faith Summary

God creates all things.

We can pray every day.

Say: We have talked about how God creates the world and everything in it.

With My Family

Prayer

Read the story with your family. Talk about it.

Remind children that the Sign of the Cross poster will help them remember how to pray the Sign of the Cross. Ask children to pray aloud the Sign of the Cross. Say: Thank you, God, for creating this great world for us.

We know you love us because you made this beautiful world for us to enjoy.

With My Family Read aloud the directions in blue type for the rebus story. Use the Picture Glossary to review with children what each picture means. Then invite children to read and discuss the story at home.

Sam looks out the creates.

He sees the He sees a Look out your

to see things and

in a

.

. What do you see?

How can you thank he creates?

8

.

for what

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

3 Go in Peace

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

Collect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Say: Enjoy reading the story with your family.

Remember, God’s creation is all around us!

PL AN AHEAD: Get Ready for Session 2 Consult the catechist preparation pages to prepare for Session 2 and determine any materials you will need.

8 www.findinggod.com

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CATECHIST PREPARATION SES SION 2

God Creates People Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 2

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.

Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of session content.

Genesis 2:7

Scripture

Then the Lord God formed the man out of the dust of

Genesis 2:7 tells us that God used his own breath to breathe life into the man he created.

the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.

Tradition

Reflection God created us in his image with goodness and compassion. At every moment, he sustains us, and we look to him as our source of wisdom and joy. 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. Every day we are called to praise God for his love by showing love to one another.

Question How can I share God’s love with everyone in my life, including the children in my class?

God created us in his own image, and we are the most precious of all the creatures he created.

Everything that God created exists for us, and in turn, we offer our love and service to God and to one another. Of all of God’s creatures, we alone are able to know and love him as he loves us; we alone can offer our thanks and our praise.

Catholic Social Teaching In 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 Catechism

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

The truth that we are made in the image of God is taught in CCC 356–358.

Almighty God, help me share generously your

General Directory for Catechesis

abundant gifts, your blessings, and your constant

If 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.

and abiding love.

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UNIT 1 • Session 2 9a

CATECHIST PREPARATION

One-Hour Session Planner SESSION 2

God Creates People

Session Theme: God created us, and we are special to him.

Before This Session ▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Genesis 2:7. Place the open Bible in your prayer center. ▶▶ 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 He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

10 minutes

PAGE 9

Explore God Gives Us Life God Loves Us

30–40 minutes

PAGE 10

PAGE 11

Art Print: Peaceful Children

ART PRINT AND PRINT BACK

Reflect Prayer: Thank You, God God Gives Us Senses

15–20 minutes

PAGE 12

PAGE 13

Respond Living My Faith

5–10 minutes

PAGE 14

Materials REQUIRED ▶▶ Bible

IF TIME ALLOWS ▶▶ Paper heart (page 10)

▶▶ Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure

▶▶ Session 2 BLM, T-258 (page 11)

▶▶ Art Print 2: Peaceful Children

▶▶ Paper strips, art supplies, envelope

and Explore Art Print 2 BLM. ▶▶ Art supplies ▶▶ CD player

(page 13) ▶▶ Session 2 Assessment,

www.findinggod.com (page 14)

▶▶ CD 2, Track 1: “He’s Got the Whole

World in His Hands” (1:45) ▶▶ CD 3, Track 1: “Thanking God for

Creation” (4:51)

9b www.findinggod.com

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Prayer in Session 2 In this session, continue to establish the pattern and tone for prayer.

The short opening and closing prayers of thanks and gratitude invite children to reflect on God’s generous and loving gift of life and the constant care he shows us. Each prayer provides an opportunity for children to add their own thoughts before praying Amen together.

ENGAGE

God Creates People

SESSION

2

SES SION 2 OUTCOMES ▶▶ Explain that God creates people. ▶▶ Explain how God loves and cares

for all people.

He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

▶▶ Pray a prayer of Thanksgiving.

He’s got the itty bitty babies in his hands.

He’s got the girls and boys in his hands.

He’s got the great big grown-ups in his hands.

He’s got the whole world in his hands.

1 Set the Stage

▶▶ Define love and people.

Discuss how people are the same and different from other creation.

Say: Everything God makes is good.

God is active in our world, all around us. He is never far away from us. We can discover God’s presence in our everyday lives.

Explain that as we discern God’s presence in our lives, we learn to see as God sees. We become more aware of and responsive to what God is calling us to do and be.

2 Get Started

Prayer

Thank you, God, for loving us and taking care of us.

SESSION 2 • God Creates People

9

IF TIME ALLOWS

Sing Along Demonstrate hand gestures that go along with certain lines of “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” [CD 2, Track 1]. You may wish to share a video of the song. For example, He’s got the itty bitty babies . . . [cradle arms and rock them back and forth] He’s got the girls and boys . . . [thumbs point to self] He’s got the great big grown-ups . . . [reach arms straight up high over head] He’s got the whole world . . . [use both hands to make a big circle]

Say: Let’s learn a song about how God takes care of us and loves us. Have children open their books to page 9.

Read aloud the session title and the song title.

Play “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” [CD 2, Track 1].

Sing the first verse and invite children to chime in. Continue by leading children in singing additional verses.

Prayer Say: Think about how God takes care of you. He holds you in his hands. Get ready to pray. Fold your hands, close your eyes, and bow your heads. Pray the prayer aloud slowly and reverently.

Together pray Amen.

God’s Creation

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UNIT 1 • Session 2 9

1 Begin

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

God Gives Us Life God creates people. He makes us to be like him. The first people were named Adam and Eve.

Invite children to form a circle.

Place the Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure in the center. Tell them something unique about yourself. For example, say: I have freckles like my father or I can skate really fast. Ask children to tell something special about themselves. Say: God made each of us special in our own way.

Color the picture of Adam and Eve.

2 Connect Read aloud the title and the sentences on page 10. Say: People are God’s greatest creation. God loves us so much that he makes us in his image.

Point out the word people in heavy type. Have children look up the word in the Glossary. Read aloud and discuss the definition.

If you have a children’s Bible, show children pictures as you read aloud the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. As an alternative, you can retell Genesis 2 in simple language. Say: Listen for the rule that God gives to Adam and Eve. Read aloud the directions and have children complete the activity.

Reading God’s Word

Then the LORD God formed the man , . . . and the man became a living being.

Genesis 2:7

10

God’s Creation

IF TIME ALLOWS

3 Close

Heart to Heart Say: Jesus shows us how to love. Make a paper heart. Have children sit in a circle with their hands behind their backs. Walk around the back of the circle and place the heart in a child’s hand. Have that child finish this sentence:

Direct children’s attention to the feature at the bottom of page 10.

Reading God’s Word

I am lovable because .

Read aloud the verse from the Bible as children follow along in their books.

Explain the verse in simple terms.

Say: God is the Creator of all life.

10 www.findinggod.com

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

Continue by having that child go around the circle and give the heart to someone else. Continue until everyone has had a turn.

God’s Creation

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EXPLORE

EXPLORE

God Loves Us God loves and cares for us. God wants us to love and care for one another too.

1 Begin Invite children to bring in pictures of themselves and their family. Display the pictures on a bulletin board. Add a title above the arrangement, such as “God Loves Us.”

Whom does God love? Color the parts marked with a dot.

2 Connect Have children open their books to page 11. Read aloud the title and the sentences. Point out the word loves in heavy type. Help children find the word in the Glossary. Read aloud and discuss the definition.

Tape butcher paper onto the wall.

Provide watercolor paints to children and brainstorm what they might paint to show God’s love and care. Invite children to add to the mural during the week.

Read aloud the directions on page 11. Have children complete the activity. Then read aloud the hidden word that answers the question.

A Friend of God

Saint John followed Jesus. He tells us to love one another.

Art Time

God’s Creation

A Friend of God SESSION 2 • God Creates People

IF TIME ALLOWS

FYI John the Apostle

Session 2 BLM I Use My Senses Have children complete the Session 2 Blackline Master [T-258] to highlight the five senses God gave us.

Invitation to Inclusion Use this opportunity to explain that God creates people in his image and cares for all of us. Emphasize that God loves us just the way we are.

For more inclusion ideas, see pages EC-8–EC-9.

11

John was the youngest of Jesus’ twelve apostles and a Gospel writer. Like Peter, he was a fisherman who followed Jesus’ call. John witnessed several important events of Jesus’ life, including miracles as well as the agony in the garden. Jesus entrusted John to care for Mary after his Death on the Cross. His simple and powerful message was “love one another.”

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Read aloud the feature. Tell children that John was one of the apostles.

3 Close

Peaceful Children

Art Time Display Art Print 2: Peaceful Children. Use the instruction on the back of the Art Print or on Catechist Guide page T-222.

Also, use the Explore Art Print 2 Blackline Master.

UNIT 1 • Session 2 11

REFLECT Prayer

Thank You, God

Prayer Choose an approach for prayer.

You created me.

Thank you, God. You created my family and friends.

Thank you, God. You created a beautiful world.

Thank you, God. You made everything good.

Thank you, God. Amen.

Approach 1

Recorded Guided Reflection Prepare During this session, play the guided reflection “Thanking God for Creation” [CD 3, Track 1]. The script is found on page T-252 of the Catechist Guide.

Pray If you use the script, play reflective music softly in the background [CD 2, Track 15 or 16].

Approach 2

Children’s Page Prepare Invite children to gather in the prayer center with their books.

Ask: What do we do to get ready to pray? Elicit that we get quiet, fold our hands, close our eyes, bow our heads.

Say: These things help us listen for what God wants to tell us.

Pray Explain to children that God is always listening whenever they want to pray. Then pray aloud page 12, inviting children to pray the Thank you, God lines with you. At the conclusion, say: Let’s thank God for

12

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

Pray Again If you use the recorded guided reflection, you might use this prayer page during another session.

all things he creates, especially you.

Pause for a moment. Then close by praying the Sign of the Cross.

Find suggestions for leading children in prayer on pages EC-4–EC-5.

12 www.findinggod.com

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FYI Coaching Children to Pray Remind children that God is always listening whenever they want to talk with him. Set the tone for reflective prayer by speaking calmly and reverently.

REFLECT

REFLECT

God Gives Us Senses

1 Begin

When God created us, he gave us five senses to learn about and understand his world.

Read aloud the title and the sentences on page 13. Ask children questions to identify each sense. Ask: What do you use to see the sky, birds, or your playful puppy? (your eyes) Say: The sense of sight is a gift from God. Ask similar questions to discuss the remaining senses: hearing, taste, smell, and touch.

Draw pictures to fill in the chart.

I Use My Senses

I

.

2 Connect

I

.

I

.

I

.

I

Show children various pictures, such as items in nature and your own favorite foods. Tell how you use your senses to experience each one.

Read aloud the directions in blue type. Have children draw pictures in the chart to complete the activity.

Invite them to share their charts with a partner.

3 Close Invite them to share the chart at home.

Say: When you get home, share your drawings with your family. You can tell them about God’s sensational world!

.

SESSION 2 • God Creates People

13

IF TIME ALLOWS

Craft Time Have a Heart Have children follow these directions to complete the craft. Model each step. Provide additional help, as needed.

Materials: construction paper, paper scraps, glue stick, envelopes Before You Meet: Prepare paper strips that say God Made You Lovable— God Loves You. Cut out one paper heart for each child.

1. Glue colored paper scraps on the heart to make a collage.

God

Mad God e You L Lov ovab es Y ou le—

2. Glue the paper-strip message to the heart.

3. Put the heart inside the envelope to give to a friend.

God’s Creation

Service: Special Delivery Have children share the hearts with seniors at a retirement community.

Family and Community

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UNIT 1 • Session 2 13

Faith Summary Read aloud the summary and discuss the ideas.

Have children trace the words loves and people. Review the meaning of each word in the Glossary.

2 Connect

L i v i n g My Fa i t h

1 Begin

RESPOND

RESPOND

Faith Summary

God loves and cares for us.

God creates people to be like him.

Say: We have talked about how God creates, loves, and cares for all people.

With My Family

Prayer

Read the story with your family. Talk about it.

Ask children to close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud: Thank you, God, for making us feel special and for taking such good, loving care of us every day.

creates everything in the creates?

Is it a

?

? Is it a

Look in a

With My Family Read aloud the directions in blue type for the rebus story. Use the Picture Glossary to review with children what each picture means. Then invite children to read and discuss the story at home.

3 Go in Peace

What is the best thing

.

!

You are the best thing under the

!

How can you use your gifts to thank ?

14

Collect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Remind children to read the story at home.

Say: Enjoy reading the story and talking about it with your family.

Remember, of all the things that God creates, you are special.

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

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

PL AN AHEAD: Get Ready for Session 3 Consult the catechist preparation pages to prepare for Session 3 and determine any materials you will need.

14 www.findinggod.com

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CATECHIST PREPARATION SES SION 3

Adam and Eve Make a Choice Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 3

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.

Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of session content.

Genesis 3:11

Scripture

Then God asked: Who told you that you were naked?

Genesis 2:15 tells how God commanded Adam to care and cultivate the Garden of Eden.

Have you eaten from the tree of which I had forbidden you to eat?

Genesis 3:11 shows the confrontation between God and Adam, whose disobedience was revealed and punished.

Reflection In eating from the tree of knowledge, man abused his freedom, disobeyed God’s command, and compromised the covenant of trust and respect established at the creation. This rash and scornful act brought death and decay into the world God created. But just as the sin of one man exposes all of us to his weakness, the righteousness of Jesus gives all who believe a chance for redemption. We follow God’s commandments and seek his forgiveness when we acknowledge our faults and failings, and in this way we experience his grace.

Question How can I help the children in my class understand that God’s love is always with them in weakness and in strength?

Prayer Speak to God, using these words or your own.

Tradition When a person commits a sin, he or she undermines logic, integrity, and moral values. He or she turns away from God’s love in an act of hubris and arrogance. And yet we can rely on God’s mercy and understanding when we ask his forgiveness and when we, too, find it in our hearts to forgive. Through repentance, we find our way back to the joy and peace of God’s constant and unwavering love, the source of our strength.

Catholic Social Teaching In this session, the integrated Catholic social teaching themes are Care for God’s Creation; Call to Family, Community, and Participation; and Rights and Responsibilities. See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Almighty God, help me live by your

Window on the Catechism

commandments and seek your forgiveness

Original Sin and its consequences are taught in CCC 396–402.

when my choices are displeasing to you.

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

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UNIT 1 • Session 3 15a

CATECHIST PREPARATION

One-Hour Session Planner SESSION 3

Adam and Eve Make a Choice

Session Theme: When we make bad choices, we disobey God’s rules.

Before This Session ▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to Genesis 2:15 and Genesis 3:11. Place the open Bible in

your prayer center. ▶▶ 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 The Beautiful Garden

10 minutes

PAGE 15

Explore Follow the Rules A Bad Choice

30–40 minutes

PAGE 16

PAGE 17

Art Print: Adam and Eve

ART PRINT AND PRINT BACK

Reflect Prayer: Help Me, God Stay Close to God

15–20 minutes

PAGE 18

PAGE 19

Respond Living My Faith

5–10 minutes

PAGE 20

Materials REQUIRED ▶▶ Bible

IF TIME ALLOWS ▶▶ Art supplies, poster board (page 15)

▶▶ Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure

▶▶ Session 3 BLM, T-259 (page 16)

▶▶ Art Print 3: Adam and Eve

▶▶ Paper plate, art supplies, hole

and Explore Art Print 3 BLM. ▶▶ Art supplies

punch, yarn, glue (page 19) ▶▶ Session 3 Assessment,

www.findinggod.com (page 20)

15b www.findinggod.com

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Prayer in Session 3

In this session, continue to establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The short opening prayer asking for help and guidance and closing prayer of thanks allow children to reflect on God’s love and compassion. Each prayer provides an opportunity for children to consider the choices they make and to know God’s love and understanding when they fall short.

ENGAGE

Adam and Eve Make a Choice

SESSION

3

SES SION 3 OUTCOMES ▶▶ Tell why we have rules. ▶▶ Explain Adam and Eve’s choice. ▶▶ Define Original Sin.

The Beautiful Garden

1 Set the Stage If possible, take children to a community garden or nursery to see different flowers and vegetables growing. Then have children brainstorm things that grow in a garden. Say: What flowers and vegetables would you grow in your garden? (Answers will vary.)

One lily in the garden Is planted in a row.

Please don’t pick the lily.

Please let the garden grow.

Two tomatoes in the garden Are planted in a row.

Please don’t pick the tomatoes.

Please let the garden grow.

2 Get Started

What else is planted in the garden?

Prayer

Loving God, help us grow in love.

SESSION 3 • Adam and Eve Make a Choice

15

IF TIME ALLOWS

Say: Let’s read a poem about a garden.

Have children open their books to page 15. Read aloud the session title and ask volunteers to tell about choices they have made. Then read aloud the poem. Invite children to hold up their fingers to show the numbers they hear. Continue by having children name other plants that could grow in a garden. Help children build on the poem, such as “Three pumpkins in the garden . . . ”

Prayer

Garden Rows Make simple props, such as flash cards, seed packets on craft sticks, and paper cutouts of lilies and tomatoes that children can use to act out the poem.

Begin by having one child stand, holding up the lily prop as the first verse is recited. Continue by having two children make a new row, each holding up a tomato prop. At the end of each additional verse, add more children with new plants to show the many wonderful flowers, fruits, and vegetables that God creates.

Call children’s attention to the prayer. Say: God always wants what is best for us. Reverently pray aloud the prayer. Together pray Amen.

God’s Creation

Garden Grows Have children draw pictures of flowers, fruits, and vegetables, or use the props from the previous activity to make a garden mural. Divide a sheet of butcher paper into sections marked off by garden paths and have children “plant” each section with pictures.

God’s Creation

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UNIT 1 • Session 3 15

1 Begin

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

Follow the Rules Your parents give you rules because they love you. If you break a rule, you can hurt yourself or others.

Ask children to talk about rules they have at home or at school. Say: You know it is important to raise your hand if you want to talk in class. Discuss why this is a good rule. Say: What are some good reasons to follow rules?

(Possible answers: Following rules keeps us safe. Rules bring order and peace.)

Read the rules. Connect the dots.

1 Take turns.

2 Connect Have children turn to page 16 in their books. Read aloud the title and the sentences. Ask: What happens when rules are broken? (Someone could get hurt. We separate ourselves from the love of God or others.) Ask volunteers to guess what might happen if they had no rules to follow.

Read aloud the directions.

Have children put their pencils on number 1 and listen as you read aloud the rule. Demonstrate how to draw a line to number 2. Discuss each rule as children form the star. Ask: Why are these good rules? (They follow God’s rules.) Then read aloud the last sentence on the page. Help children understand the meaning of star as it is used in the sentence.

Be kind.

4

8 7

3 Help your neighbor.

6

5

Share with others.

Following rules makes you a star!

Did You Know?

God gives us rules too. His rules help us live in love and peace. When we break God’s rules, we call this sin.

16

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

3 Close

Session 3 BLM

Direct children’s attention to the feature at the bottom of page 16.

I Keep This Rule Have children complete the Session 3 Blackline Master [T-259] to discuss rules.

Rights and Responsibilities

Did You Know?

Read aloud the feature. Ask children to give examples of how God wants us to love him and others.

16 www.findinggod.com

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10

Listen 9 to your parents.

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EXPLORE

EXPLORE

A Bad Choice God gave rules to Adam and Eve. The snake tempted them. They made a bad choice. They disobeyed God. Their choice brought Original Sin into the world.

1 Begin Review the story of Adam and Eve. Emphasize that God gave them everything to be happy. But the snake tempted Adam and Eve to turn away from God. When they broke God’s rule, they had to leave the beautiful garden. Say: Even though Adam and Eve sinned, God loved them. He wanted to give them a way to return to him.

Cross out the snake in the garden. Then color the picture.

2 Connect

Reading God’s Word

The LORD God then took the man and settled him in the garden of Eden, to cultivate and care for it.

Genesis 2:15 SESSION 3 • Adam and Eve Make a Choice

Art Time

Have children turn to page 17. Read aloud the title and the sentences.

Point out the term Original Sin and help children look it up in the Glossary. Read aloud and discuss the meaning. Ask: What are some of the rules God has given to us? (Possible answers: Love one another, share, give to those in need) Say: God is our Father.

Like a parent, God wants what is good for us. God’s rules give us a way to live that leads us to him. Read aloud the directions. Have children complete the activity.

Family and Community

17

Reading God’s Word

IF TIME ALLOWS

Invitation to Inclusion You might develop a routine signal for children to answer questions, such as holding up a green flash card as a reminder to raise their hands to speak. For more inclusion ideas, see pages EC-8–EC-9.

Read aloud the verse. Remind children that everything good comes from God.

3 Close

Adam and Eve

Art Time Display Art Print 3: Adam and Eve. Use the instruction on the back of the Art Print or on Catechist Guide page T-223.

Also, use the Explore Art Print 3 Blackline Master.

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UNIT 1 • Session 3 17

REFLECT Prayer

Help Me, God

Prayer Follow the steps to guide children through the prayer on page 18.

I know I don’t always follow the rules that you give me, God. I’m sorry for my bad choices.

I’m sorry that I sometimes forget your love.

Please help me not turn away from you.

Please help me follow your rules.

Amen.

Children’s Page Prepare Invite children to gather in the prayer center with their books. Display the Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure. Say: Jesus is with you now and throughout the day.

Ask children to relax and calm their minds and bodies. They may fold their hands, bow their heads, or close their eyes. Say: Let’s get ready to talk to God. Pray Tell children that sometimes we pray to ask God for help. Say: God listens to you when you are having trouble following his rules of love. God helps you be happy again when you express sorrow for doing wrong.

Pray aloud page 18. Remind children that sometimes we make bad choices that displease God, but God still loves us and listens to our prayers. Say: God is forgiving. Give children time to pray silently. Then conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

18

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

Service: School Rules Discuss how rules protect us and make things fair. Have children help you make a list of rules to display in the classroom. Use their ideas to make a poster. Help children decorate the poster. Call attention to the poster often to help them follow rules.

Family and Community

Find suggestions for leading children in prayer on pages EC-4–EC-5.

18 www.findinggod.com

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FYI Coaching Children to Pray Reassure children that God always listens. Say: God loves you. God is always with you.

God always helps you.

REFLECT

REFLECT

Stay Close to God We want to stay close to God. We want to follow his rules.

1 Begin Read aloud the title and the text on page 19. Explain that God always loves us, even when we have trouble following his rules. Say: God wants to bring us closer to him when we don’t follow his rules. We pray for God’s help.

We say we are sorry. We restore our friendship with him and the people we have hurt. God forgives us.

Color the if the sentence tells a way to stay close to God.

I ask God for help.

2 Connect

I sin by breaking God’s rules.

Read aloud the directions in blue type. Then read aloud the first sentence. Say: We are not alone. God is always with us. Ask children to raise their hands if they think that asking God for help is a way to stay close to God. Give children time to color the first heart. Then read aloud the other sentences and help children decide whether to color the heart.

I tell God I am sorry.

I help others.

3 Close SESSION 3 • Adam and Eve Make a Choice

19

Have children discuss how talking to God often in prayer can help them make good choices and stay close to God.

IF TIME ALLOWS

Craft Time Plate Portrait Have children follow these directions to complete the craft. Model each step. Provide additional help, as needed.

Materials: art supplies, paper plates, yarn, hole punch 1. Draw your face on the paper plate.

2. Give yourself a great big smile!

3. To add hair, punch holes in the plate and pull yarn through, or glue yarn to the edges.

4. Write and complete the sentence I feel when I ask God for help. on the back of the plate.

5. Take the plate portraits home to share with your family.

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UNIT 1 • Session 3 19

Faith Summary Read aloud the summary and discuss the ideas.

Have children trace the term Original Sin. Use the Glossary to review the meaning of the term.

2 Connect

L i v i n g My Fa i t h

1 Begin

RESPOND

RESPOND

Say: We have learned about God’s rules. We will soon learn about how Jesus helps us to follow God’s rules.

God wants us to follow his rules.

Adam and Eve disobeyed God. We are born with Original Sin .

With My Family

Prayer

Read the story with your family. Talk about it.

Ask children to close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud: Thank you, God, for listening, loving, and helping me every day.

Mom asked Marco not to kick the in the .

Marco kicked the

With My Family Read aloud the directions in blue type for the rebus story. Use the Picture Glossary to review with children what each picture means. Then invite children to read and discuss the story at home.

3 Go in Peace

Faith Summary

He broke the Mom was

. .

. Marco felt

.

What rule can Marco follow next time?

20

Collect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Remind children to read the story at home.

Say: Share the story at home and talk about rules that are important to your family. Remember that rules bring us peace. We follow our family’s rules. We want to follow God’s rules too.

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

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

PL AN AHEAD: Get Ready for Session 4 Consult the catechist preparation pages to prepare for Session 4 and determine any materials you will need.

20 www.findinggod.com

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CATECHIST PREPARATION SES SION 4

God Promises a Savior Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 4

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.

Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of session content.

John 3:16

Scripture

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so

John 3:16 shows the promise and power of God’s love for us.

that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.

Tradition

Reflection The Father sent his Son to us for our salvation, so that we might know the Father’s love with wholehearted conviction. In his life on earth, Jesus was a teacher, guide, healer and peacemaker. We trust in the promises Jesus made, strengthen our faith by our actions, and hold onto the hope for eternal life.

Question How can I help the children in my class understand the depth of God’s love for us?

Prayer Pray to Jesus, using these words or your own.

Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of salvation.

God sent his Son, Jesus, to be our Savior. Jesus came and lived among us to teach us to love God as our Father, and he died in order to deliver us from our sins and bring us everlasting life. Jesus reveals God’s forgiveness, steadfast presence, and unwavering love even as we struggle to fulfill his expectations. Jesus helps us open our hearts to God’s power, wisdom, and protection in this life and the next.

Catholic Social Teaching In this session, the integrated Catholic social teaching themes are Care for God’s Creation; Call to Family, Community, and Participation;, and The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers.

See page 1b for an explanation of these themes.

Window on the Catechism Christ’s coming for man’s salvation is described in CCC 456–457.

General Directory for Catechesis The importance of understanding the centrality of Jesus for our salvation is found in the GDC 98.

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UNIT 1 • Session 4 21a

CATECHIST PREPARATION

One-Hour Session Planner SESSION 4

God Promises a Savior

Session Theme: God sent Jesus to be our Savior.

Before This Session ▶▶ Bookmark your Bible to John 3:16. Place the open Bible in your prayer center. ▶▶ 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 Safe and Sound

10 minutes

PAGE 21

Explore S is for Savior Be Like Jesus

30–40 minutes

PAGE 22 PAGE 23

Art Print: Prophet Isaiah

ART PRINT AND PRINT BACK

Reflect Prayer: God’s Promise Thank You, God

15–20 minutes

PAGE 24

PAGE 25

Respond Living My Faith

5–10 minutes

PAGE 26

Materials REQUIRED ▶▶ Bible

IF TIME ALLOWS ▶▶ Session 4 BLM, T-260 (page 22)

▶▶ Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure

▶▶ Note cards (page 23)

▶▶ Art Print 4: Prophet Isaiah and

▶▶ Construction paper, note cards, art

Explore Art Print 4 BLM. ▶▶ Art supplies

supplies, glue, stapler (page 25) ▶▶ Session 4 Assessment,

www.findinggod.com (page 26)

21b www.findinggod.com

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Prayer in Session 4 In this session, continue to establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The short opening prayer and closing prayer of thanks allow children to reflect on the gift of Jesus in their lives.

ENGAGE

God Promises a Savior

SESSION

4

SES SION 4 OUTCOMES ▶▶ Explain that the Father sent Jesus

to be our Savior. ▶▶ Explain that Jesus helps us stay

close to God.

Safe and Sound

▶▶ Identify God’s promise. ▶▶ Define heaven and Savior.

I found a ladybug stuck to my sleeve.

I set it gently on some leaves.

My cat chased a mouse across the floor.

I let the mouse out the kitchen door.

A baby bird fell in the dirt.

I picked her up—she wasn’t hurt.

I put her back up in the tree.

Safe and sound, all thanks to me!

1 Set the Stage Take a walk outside. Invite children to look for bugs, birds, and butterflies. Talk about the things these creatures need. (food, water, air) Discuss actions that people can take to help God’s creatures. (Put up a birdhouse or a birdfeeder; plant flowers that attract butterflies.)

2 Get Started Prayer

Loving Father, thank you for sending Jesus to save us.

SESSION 4 • God Promises a Savior

21

IF TIME ALLOWS

A Safe Game Play a safety game. Write the word safe on the board. Point to the letter s. Say aloud the sound that s makes. Say: My name is Sally and I save spiders. Help children find the words that begin with the s sound. (Sally, save, spiders) Invite volunteers to think of a similar response for the letter a. (My name is Ann and I save alligators.)

Repeat the process for the letters f and e. Talk about what it means to feel safe and loved. Say: We are close to God when we take care of his world.

Say: Let’s read a poem. It is about saving a ladybug, a mouse, and a baby bird—little creatures that might need our help. Have children open their books to page 21. Read aloud the session title and the poem. Encourage children to track the words with a finger as you read. Talk about how each animal is protected. Say: God sent Jesus to keep us safe too.

Prayer Invite children to get ready to pray. Say: Some of our prayers give thanks to God. Pray the prayer aloud. Together pray Amen. Say: It takes great love to keep others protected.

God’s Creation

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UNIT 1 • Session 4 21

1 Begin

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

S Is for Savior God promised a Savior to help us stay close to him. The Father sent his Son, Jesus, to save us from sin.

Say: Let’s talk about the people who take care of us. Ask: What do they do to make sure that we are safe? (Possible answer: They protect us.) How do they show us they love us? (Possible answers: listen, care, share) Encourage children to describe how good it is to feel safe and loved.

Write the letter S in the blank spaces.

Read the message.

2 Connect Have children turn to page 22 in their books. Read aloud the title and the sentences. Remind children that even after Adam and Eve turned away from God, he still loved them. Point out the word Savior in heavy type. Say: Savior is an important word for us to know. Let’s look it up in the Glossary.

Read aloud and discuss the meaning.

Explain that God promised to send a Savior to save us from our sins. God kept his promise. The Father sent his Son, Jesus.

Read aloud the directions. Write the letter S on the board and ask children to copy it in each blank space. Then read aloud the completed sentences.

U

U

FROM

AV E IN

OUR U

JE OUR

.

I AV I O R .

I Go to Church

At Mass we ask God to forgive us for our sins.

22

3 Close

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

Direct children’s attention to the feature at the bottom of page 22.

Session 4 BLM I Will Be Like Jesus Have children complete the Session 4 Blackline Master [T-260] to show some ways to be more like Jesus.

I Go to Church Read aloud the feature. Say: Jesus knows that sometimes we make bad choices in the things we say and do.

His love and forgiveness keep us close to him.

22 www.findinggod.com

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Invitation to Inclusion You might share some of your own stories or experiences to help children feel more comfortable sharing their feelings or personal stories during class discussions. For more inclusion ideas, see pages EC-8–EC-9.

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EXPLORE

EXPLORE

Be Like Jesus Jesus saves us so that we can enter into the happiness of heaven.

1 Begin Remind children of the Original Sin we inherit from the first people, Adam and Eve. Say: The Father sent his Son, Jesus. Jesus opened the gates of heaven to us.

Draw a picture of yourself with Jesus.

2 Connect Read aloud the title and the sentence on page 23. Help children find the word heaven in the Glossary and discuss the definition. Say: Jesus’ love for us is so big that he makes heaven possible for us.

Display the Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure. Ask: What can we do to be like Jesus when we have to choose between right or wrong? Have children share aloud their ideas.

Read aloud the directions. Have children complete the activity.

Reading God’s Word

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him . . . might have eternal life.”

John 3:16 SESSION 4 • God Promises a Savior

Family and Community

Art Time

23

Reading God’s Word

Read aloud the Bible verse. Explain that God the Father’s love was so great that he sent us his only Son, Jesus.

3 Close

IF TIME ALLOWS

Service: Helping Hand Have children brainstorm a list of jobs that they can do to be helpful at home. For example, they might water plants, walk dogs, take out trash, or rake leaves. Help children make note cards to give to family members, advertising the jobs they do.

Family and Community Work and Workers

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The Prophet Isaiah

Art Time Display Art Print 4: The Prophet Isaiah. Use the instruction on the back of the Art Print or on Catechist Guide page T-224.

Also, use the Explore Art Print 4 Blackline Master.

UNIT 1 • Session 4 23

REFLECT Prayer

God’s Promise

Prayer Follow the steps to guide children through the prayer on page 24.

Leader: The Father sent his Son, Jesus, to be our Savior.

All: Jesus saves us.

Children’s Page Prepare Ask children to gather in the prayer center with their books.

Help children get settled. You may have them sit in a circle on the floor, stand, or sit in chairs. Say: Remember

Leader: Jesus died for our sins.

how we act as we get ready to pray. We are quiet and still so that we can think about what we want to say to God.

All: Jesus saves us.

Pray Have children turn to page 24.

Read aloud the All part, Jesus saves us. Ask children to repeat it. Tell children you are going to pray aloud each Leader part. Invite them to pray aloud each All part. When children are ready, together pray the entire prayer, prompting children to respond when it is their turn.

Say: We praise God, our Father for keeping his promise to send a Savior.

We thank the Father for helping us stay close to him. We thank the Father for sending Jesus to us. Close by praying the Sign of the Cross.

All: Jesus saves us.

Leader: Jesus rose from the dead.

Leader: Thank you, Jesus, for showing us the way to heaven.

24

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

Giving Praise Encourage children to join you in using gestures at the All response. Ask children to stand. Say: When you say, Jesus saves us, raise your arms to the sky. Then pray aloud each line of the prayer.

Give children a cue to begin the gesture, if needed.

Find suggestions for leading children in prayer on pages EC-4–EC-5.

24 www.findinggod.com

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FYI Coaching Children to Pray Remind children that God is always glad to hear what is in their hearts. He is waiting patiently for them to talk to him, and he is always ready to listen no matter where or how they choose to pray.

REFLECT

REFLECT

Thank You, God Praise the Father for sending Jesus.

1 Begin Read aloud the title and the sentence on page 25. Say: It was good of God to keep his promise. The Father sent Jesus to us. What do you say when someone does something for you? (Thank you.)

Trace the words on the prayer card. Draw a picture of Jesus.

Thank you ,

2 Connect

Father, for sending Jesus. Amen .

Read aloud the directions in blue type. Help children complete the activity. Invite volunteers to share their prayer cards with the group.

Did You Know?

Read aloud the feature. Say: Jesus is God the Father’s promised Savior.

3 Close Invite children to take home their prayer cards. Say: Show your prayer card to your family. Then you and your family can pray a prayer of thanks together.

Did You Know?

Jesus is the Son of God. SESSION 4 • God Promises a Savior

25

IF TIME ALLOWS

Craft Time My Book of Little Things Have children follow these directions to complete the craft. Model each step. Provide additional help, as needed.

Materials: art supplies, construction paper, note cards, paper scraps, stapler 1. On each of three note cards, draw pictures of little things you can do to be more like Jesus.

2. Fold construction paper rectangles in half to make a cover.

3. Staple the note cards inside the cover to form a booklet.

4. Add a title: My Book of Little Things by [name].

5. Decorate the front cover.

6. Take the book home to share with your family.

©

My B ook ofs Lit t le T hing b y Jua n ita

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UNIT 1 • Session 4 25

Faith Summary Read aloud the summary and discuss the ideas. Have children trace the words Savior and heaven. Review the meaning of each word in the Glossary.

2 Connect

L i v i n g My Fa i t h

1 Begin

RESPOND

RESPOND

Faith Summary

Jesus is our Savior .

Jesus saves us so that we can enter into heaven .

Say: Today we learned that God sent us a Savior. Our Savior is his son, Jesus.

With My Family

Prayer

Read the story with your family. Talk about it.

Ask children to close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud: Thank you, Father, for sending us a Savior to help us make good choices in our lives. We want to be like Jesus in everything we do.

Marta thinks of all the people saves

With My Family Read aloud the directions in blue type for the rebus story. Use the Picture Glossary to review with children what each picture means. Then invite children to read and discuss the story at home.

3 Go in Peace

saves.

.

saves

and

saves

and

. .

saves Marta.

Whom else does 26

save?

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

Collect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Remind children to read the story at home.

Say: Share the story with your family.

Tell them that God the Father wants to be close to us even though we sin sometimes. He sent Jesus to save us from our sins.

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

PL AN AHEAD: Get Ready for Session 5 Consult the catechist preparation pages to prepare for Session 5 and determine any materials you will need.

26 www.findinggod.com

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CATECHIST PREPARATION SES SION 5

Celebrating Ordinary Time Knowing and Sharing Your Faith in Session 5

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.

Consider how Scripture and Tradition can deepen your understanding of session content.

1 Corinthians 1:4–5

Scripture

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

1 Corinthians 1:4­–5 teaches us to give thanks daily for the gifts of God’s grace we receive through Jesus Christ.

grace of God bestowed on you in Christ Jesus, that in him you were enriched in every way, with all discourse and all knowledge.

Daniel 3:74 calls us to praise and exalt the Lord above all things.

Reflection Paul’s letters to the Corinthians evoke his empathy and compassion. He understood the challenges and struggles his readers faced and helped them realize that they could come to feel God’s presence and know his grace through daily work and daily prayer. Like that small community of Corinthians, we, too, are blessed with God’s grace in Jesus Christ. As catechists, we are privileged to share with others our knowledge of Jesus and the abiding friendship that will bless their lives.

Question How can I express my gratitude for sharing God’s grace with the children in my class?

Prayer Pray to Jesus, using these words or your own.

Tradition The season of Ordinary Time is celebrated during two parts of the year, between the Christmas season and Ash Wednesday and between the Easter season and the First Sunday of Advent. The term Ordinary Time comes from the word ordinal, meaning “numbered days.” These 33 or 34 Sundays are devoted to reflection. We focus on the mystery of Christ in his day-to-day life and ask his guidance and help that we may continue to grow in his love and follow his example.

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

Lord Jesus, thank you for the gifts of grace you so

Window on the Catechism

generously share.

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

General Directory for Catechesis The centrality of Jesus Christ for catechesis is found in GDC 98.

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UNIT 1 • Session 5 27a

CATECHIST PREPARATION

One-Hour Session Planner SESSION 5

Celebrating Ordinary Time

Session Theme: During Ordinary Time, we learn about the life of Jesus and give thanks and praise.

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 1:4­–5. Place the open Bible in your

prayer center. ▶▶ 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 Special Days and Seasons

10 minutes

PAGE 27

Explore A Time of Praise

25–35 minutes

PAGE 28

Reflect The Grace of God Art Print: Amen

20–25 minutes

PAGE 29 ART PRINT AND PRINT BACK

Respond Living My Faith

5–10 minutes

PAGE 30

Materials REQUIRED

IF TIME ALLOWS

▶▶ Bible

▶▶ Green yarn (page 27)

▶▶ Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure

▶▶ Session 5 BLM, T-261 (page 28)

▶▶ Art Print 5: Amen and Explore

▶▶ Art supplies, magazines, glue,

Art Print 5 BLM. ▶▶ Art supplies

construction paper (page 29) ▶▶ Session 5 Assessment,

www.findinggod.com (page 30) ▶▶ Unit 1 Assessment, T-262–T-263

(page 30)

27b www.findinggod.com

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Prayer in Session 5

In this session, continue to establish the pattern and tone for prayer. The short opening prayer of thanks and closing prayer of commitment and stewardship allow children to reflect on God’s creation.

ENGAGE

Celebrating Ordinary Time

SESSION

5

SES SION 5 OUTCOMES ▶▶ Tell about the Church season of

Ordinary Time. ▶▶ Describe Ordinary Time as a season

of thanks and praise.

Special Days and Seasons

▶▶ Define grace and Ordinary Time.

1 Set the Stage

The Church has special seasons that are different from winter, spring, summer, and fall.

Say: The Church celebrates seasons that are different from winter, spring, summer, and fall. We pray certain prayers. We listen to certain Bible stories. Ask: What Church seasons do you know? (Possible answers: Easter, Christmas)

One Church season is called Ordinary Time.

2 Get Started

Prayer

Thank you, God, for times to celebrate your love.

SESSION 5 • Celebrating Ordinary Time

27

IF TIME ALLOWS

Have children open their books to page 27. Read aloud the title and the sentences. Invite children to name special days when they celebrate with family. Say: Look at the words Ordinary Time. They are written in heavy type. We can look them up in the Glossary. Help children find Ordinary Time in the Glossary and discuss the definition.

Prayer

Caring Connections Provide a green ball of yarn. Have children sit with you in a circle. Tell them that they are going to play a game. Hold the end of the yarn.

Say: I am thankful for all of you. Then gently toss or roll the ball of yarn to someone across the circle. That child says something he or she is thankful for and keeps hold of the strand as the ball of yarn is passed to someone else. Play continues, eventually forming a web of caring connections.

Help children get ready to pray.

Invite them to close their eyes if they wish. Say: This is a prayer for Ordinary Time. Then pray the prayer slowly and reverently.

Together pray Amen.

God’s Creation

Service: Grounds Cleanup Provide gardening gloves and trash bags. Arrange additional chaperones for a walking field trip. Find an outdoor area near you that is in need of a manageable cleanup. Pick up the area together.

Talk about the importance of not littering as a way to give glory to God and care for his world.

God’s Creation

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UNIT 1 • Session 5 27

1 Begin

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

A Time of Praise Ordinary Time is a time to give thanks and praise.

Ask children to tell about gifts they have received in the past. Discuss common reasons for gifts, such as birthdays or Christmas. Ask children if they have ever received an unexpected gift. Discuss this idea.

Ask: What do you say to someone who gives you a gift? (Thank you.)

Draw a picture of yourself praising God in Church.

2 Connect Read aloud the title and the text on page 28. Explain that the word ordinary in this case does not mean something usual or everyday. Say: The word ordinary here means that the weeks in the Church are numbered, or put in order. Ordinary Time is about paying attention to what is happening all around us. We slow down and thank God for all the gifts he gives us.

Ordinary Time is a time to be grateful for all living things. Ask volunteers to tell some things in the world for which they are most grateful to God. Read aloud the directions. Give children time to draw their picture.

Reading God’s Word

Reading God’s Word

Let the earth bless the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.

Daniel 3:74

28

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

Read aloud the verse from the Bible.

Say: We celebrate the world that God created for us.

IF TIME ALLOWS

3 Close

Thank-You Card for God Have children complete the Session 5 Blackline Master [T-261] to highlight Ordinary Time. You might have children display their completed cards in the prayer center.

Session 5 BLM

Pray together with children: God, you give us so much. Thank you for your love and care. Thank you for the sun, moon, and stars. Thank you for my family. Thank you for everything you create. Amen.

28 www.findinggod.com

Invitation to Inclusion You might reward children for staying on task by giving them a treat, such as stickers or being first in line. For more inclusion ideas, see pages EC-8–EC-9.

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REFLECT

REFLECT

The Grace of God At Mass during Ordinary Time, we learn about the life of Jesus.

1 Begin Display the Jesus the Teacher Plush Figure. Tell children a favorite story about Jesus. Ask: What is your favorite story? (Answers will vary.) Invite volunteers to tell their stories. Then tell children a story about a real or imaginary time when someone gave you something valuable for no reason at all but love. Ask: How might someone act when receiving something for no reason? (Possible answers: surprised, humbled, inspired)

Our hearts are filled with God’s love and grace.

Grace helps us follow Jesus.

Color the footprints that follow the way of Jesus.

2 Connect

JESUS

Start

SESSION 5 • Celebrating Ordinary Time

Art Time

29

IF TIME ALLOWS

Craft Time

3 Close

Green Is Good Have children follow these directions to complete the craft. Model each step. Provide additional help, as needed.

1. Find pictures of green things in the magazines.

2. Cut out the pictures.

3. Glue pictures to a sheet of paper.

5. Tell your family about Ordinary Time and show them your craft.

G ree n

Amen

Art Time Display Art Print 5: Amen. Use the instruction on the back of the Art Print or on Catechist Guide page T-225.

Also, use the Explore Art Print 5 Blackline Master.

Materials: art supplies, magazines, scissors

4. Add the title Green Is Good and your name.

Read aloud the title and the text on page 29. Say: The more we learn about Jesus in the Bible, the more we can act with love in our own lives. Help children find the word grace in the Glossary and discuss the meaning.

Say: God’s grace helps us make good choices. Grace is a gift from God freely given to us because he loves us so much. We receive grace in the Sacrament of Baptism.

Read aloud the directions. Point out each picture and help children determine if it shows a way to follow Jesus. If it does, have children color the footprint by that picture.

Is G oo d

Luis

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UNIT 1 • Session 5 29

Faith Summary Read aloud the summary and discuss the ideas.

Have children trace the words Ordinary Time and grace. Review the meaning of each term in the Glossary.

2 Connect

L i v i n g My Fa i t h

1 Begin

RESPOND

RESPOND

Say: We have talked about how during Ordinary Time we thank God for creation and learn about the life of Jesus.

Ordinary Time is a time to learn about Jesus.

We are filled with God’s grace .

With My Family

Prayer

Read the story with your family. Talk about it.

Ask children to close their eyes, fold their hands, and pray silently as you pray aloud: Thank you, God, for creating this beautiful world for us to enjoy. We will help care for animals, plants, and people.

With My Family Read aloud the directions in blue type for the rebus story. Use the Picture Glossary to review with children what each picture means. Then invite children to read and discuss the story at home.

Faith Summary

Julia goes to

on the

She sees The

.

wears

Julia learns about What season is it at 30

.

over his robes. . ?

UNIT 1 • God, Our Creator and Father

IF TIME ALLOWS

3 Go in Peace

Session Assessment Option

Collect materials and return them to the appropriate places. Remind children to read the story at home.

Say: Share the story with your family and tell them about all the things you are thankful for. Remember, Ordinary Time is a time to be thankful and praise God.

An assessment for this session can be found at www.findinggod.com.

Unit Assessment Option If you wish, photocopy the Unit Assessment on pages T-262–T-263.

Administer the assessment during the session or send it home.

PL AN AHEAD: Get Ready for Session 6 Consult the catechist preparation pages to prepare for Session 6 and determine any materials you will need.

30 www.findinggod.com

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