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CCD 7th: Incarnation + Chapter 1 + God Proofs (day 6)
Today, in our 7th grade pre-Confirmation class, we …
[story] “Father + Son + ant hill”
Incarnation = “God becoming man (flesh)”
- We bow & genuflect for the incarnation
- — in front of tabernacle or alter @ Mass
- –@ the name of Jesus in prayers
- –during Nicene Creed @ Mass
- –@ transubstantiation @ Mass
- –before receiving Communion
(p12) How do I experience God? As a parent? Loving Heavenly Father? A powerful & limitless presence? As a close friend? Jesus? my own specific way?
(p13) Aristotle’s 5 Proofs of God
- Prime Mover … nothing moves on their own
- First Cause … everything is caused by?
- Necessary Being … why do things exist?
- Ultimate beauty, goodness & truth … what standard sets good/bad, true/false, etc.
- Great Designer … mind, eyes, creation?
Blaise Pascal, 17th century French math + scientist said, “There is a God-shaped hole in the human heart that nothing else can fill.”
HOMEWORK:
- finish reading textbook Chapter 1 (The Source of All Life),
- do “Pop Quiz” handout with parents,
- pray over 3 events in your life where you felt God present + journal a letter to God after each.
CCD hs: Reconciliation catechesis (by Fr Chris Bartos) (day 5)
Today, our high school Confirmation class was asked to help greet, usher & lector for a sacramental catechesis for those preparing for the sacrament of Reconciliation. It was a prayer service mixed with catechesis by Fr Chris Bartos. Even though about 10 of our kids are also preparing for Reconciliation, their “service” to the parish community is an experience of their “call to service” as they prepare this year to Confirm their faith with their parish family at St Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church.
St Max LIFE TEEN
Went to Mass at St Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church in Pembroke Pines, FL for their evening LIFE TEEN Mass.
Here is a picture of the teens gathered in front of the alter during consecration. I know the picture is dark. During consecration, all the lights are dimmed except the lights over the alter.
Lively homilies and lively music. — Too much drums … my ears are still ringing.
CCD 7th: Hats + 3 Birthdays + Vocations (day 5)
Today, in our 7th grade pre-Confirmation class, we discussed our unique identities, our stages in life, vocations, marriage and closed with the story of St Agatha. Lots of interaction and discussion, full of the Lord’s blessings!
—3 BIRTHDAYS … each begins a new life
- —Physical B-day … start earthly life
- —Baptism B-day … start Christian spiritual life
- —Death B-day … start our heavenly life
Who Am I? (back page of journal)
- –Birth name, Nick names, “Hats” (our roles)
- —Spiritual names? What does God call you?
- (we’ll find out as we try different prayers)
VOCATION = “a call” by God to holiness
- ”Primary” Vocation …
- –“to be a beloved child to our heavenly Father”
- “State of Life” Vocation … which one?
- —Single, Consecrated Single
- —Married (husband/father, wife/mother)
- —Religious sister or brother
- —Priesthood (clergy, deacon)
- “Service” Vocation … career, ministry, etc.
Sacrament of Marriage … purpose is …
- —Pro-create (open to children),
- —Educate (evangelize your Catholic children)
- —Holy Mate (get your spouse to heaven!)
St Agatha (3rd century virgin martyr) a beautiful young girl who consecrated herself to Jesus and resisted the advances of a nobleman. He imprisoned & tortured her (even cut off her breasts), but she stayed faithful to God. Died in prison. Feast on Feb 5. Patron of breast, nurses, (bell-makers & bakers – due to statue plater).
CCD hs: Faith + Vocations + St Teresa of Avila (day 4)
Opening prayer song reflection, (live crowd) “Amazing Grace” by Paul Oakley
[Book QUIZ] on Chapter 1 (Faith)
St Teresa of Avila – (16th century mystic Carmelite religious sister, feast Oct 15) as a teen she lost interest in her faith, instead falling in love with boys & chivalry, mother died as a teen, placed in monastery, love of God rekindled, suffered repeated serious illnesses, struggled with prayer, experienced mystical visions of Christ, raptures (joyful unions with God), taught on prayer, “doctor of the Church” (influential writings).
VOCATION = “a call” by God to holiness
”Primary” Vocation … “to be a beloved child to our heavenly Father”
“State of Life” Vocation …
- —Single, Consecrated Single
- —Married (husband/father, wife/mother)
- —Religious sister or brother
- —Priesthood (clergy)
“Service” Vocation … career, ministry, etc.
CCD hs: God Positions + St Francis of Assisi (day 3)
Today, in our high school Confirmation class, Jose covered much of Chapter 1: Light of Faith. We discussed a story about Tommy, an “atheist in residence,” who wasn’t sure if he’d ever find God. A priest assured him, “I don’t think you’ll ever find God. But I’m certain that God will find you.” It wasn’t until years later when Tommy developed cancer that his quest for God became more fervent. We realized in times of desperate need, Tommy was looking for a “quick fix” — not for a God to love. Unless he reached out to God in love, his faith would be short-lived and his spiritual growth negligible. God is not a 911 number that you call in emergencies. When we’re lost, how does God find us? God finds us in the sense that God does not give up on us. Rather, God continually graces us to open our hearts to him as Tommy finally did.
We also clarified, with a chalkboard matching activity, the various “God Positions” that people choose:
- Atheist = denies there is a God
- Agnostic = doesn’t deny or affirm God
- Theist = affirms a personal God
- Deist = affirms impersonal God
- Monotheist = affirms only one God
- Polytheist = affirms many gods
We also had a couple guys (Andy & Principe) introduce themselves and their assigned Saint to present. The pair presented St Francis of Assisi on a awesome display board.
ASSIGNMENTS: handout + read Chapters 1 & 2 + be ready for quiz
chocolate chip cake
Chocolate Chip Cake … one of Mom’s masterpieces!
CCD hs: Catholic pop quiz + Saints assignments (day 2)
In our high school Confirmation class (at St Mark’s), Jose & I gave a POP Quiz with 23 questions to see what our kids know to better gauge how much to review. I didn’t expect much, and wasn’t disappointed. After introductions and time to fill it out, we went over the first 10 questions in large group discussion. Here are some of the questions:
- How many Catholic friends do you have? (ranged from none to 12 to 1,000 to many)
- What Catholic tradition do you like? (sign of the cross, Eucharist, Holy Week, Lent, Christmas, Christmas Novena readings, )
- What Catholic tradition do you not understand? (Ash Wed, Halloween)
- What is the name of the Pastor here? (only 4 of 24 got it right … not good)
- Name 3 ministries in this parish.
- What prayers do we pray in the Rosary?
- What is the name of the current Pope? (who’s George III?)
- What is the Eucharist?
- Why do we have confession?
- What do we celebrate on Good Friday?
After some discussion about the questions, we paired up kids and assigned a Saint to present, one per day, with a schedule of presentation. Great class, quiet but very insightful discussions. Definitely a great year of catechesis ahead! Praise God!
ASSIGNMENTS: handouts + write 5 questions you have about your Catholic faith
CCD 7th: P.R.A.Y.S. + angels + Yom Kippur (day 2)
Today, in our 7th grade pre-Confirmation class, we handed out journals & wrote on inside cover …
In my BAPTISM, I …
- PRAISE = God for who He is … God
- REPENT = confess + rec forgiveness + change
- ASK = for me + other (“5 finger prayer”)
- YIELD = be open to God’s voice
- SHARE = my faith with others
In my CLASS, I …
- PRAISE = encourage others
- REPENT = take responsibility for wrongs
- ASK = learn by asking questions
- YIELD = respect speaker + listen
- SHARE = contribute + respect privacy
Difference between angels + humans?
- Angels = pure spiritual beings
- Humans = body + spiritual beings
—Yom Kippur = Jewish “day of atonement”
- fast, no work, pray, make reparations for sins
- “scapegoat” takes sins of the people = Jesus
HOMEWORK:
(1) Decorate Binder Cover with “ME” … on a sheet of paper, make a collage of you, your hobbies, likes, etc.
(2) do the “Doxology” prayer exercise from last week if you haven’t done it yet.
Dedication of Mary mosaic @ SJVCS
Today, at St John Vianney College Seminary, was the highly anticipated dedication of the new mosaic of Mary, the New Eve and Star of the Sea in the one of the chapel gardens around St Raphael Chapel. Orlando Bishop Wenski celebrated Mass and the blessing and dedication of the new mosaic. Artist (and seminarian) Peter Dionne (SJVCS class of 2008) was present along with friend, family and supporters of SJVCS.
Also see picture of mosaic conception through completion and prayer of consecration to Mary.
[these pictures taken by Cliff Whitty, a SJVCS seminarian]
prayer of consecration to Mary
† PRAYER OF CONSECRATION †
Most Holy Trinity, Our Father in Heaven, who chose Mary as the fairest of your daughters; Holy Spirit, who chose Mary as your spouse; God the Son, who chose Mary as your Mother; in union with Mary, we adore your majesty and acknowledge your supreme, eternal dominion and authority.
Most Holy Trinity, we put St. John Vianney College Seminary into the hands of Mary Immaculate, the New Eve and Star of the Sea, in order that she may present this seminary to you. Through her we wish to thank you for the great blessings you have bestowed upon us throughout our fifty years of service. Through the intercession of Mary, have mercy on the local churches we serve. Shower wisdom upon our bishops and all who assist them in their responsibilities of governance. Bestow strength to our seminary administration, faculty, and staff. Grant protection to those here discerning the priesthood of Jesus Christ. Call forth the precious gift of many vocations to the diocesan priesthood. Through the intercession of our mother, have mercy on the sick, the poor, the refugee, the tempted, sinners–on all who are in need.
Mary, Immaculate Virgin, our mother, patroness of our land, we praise you and honor you and consecrate our seminary and ourselves to your immaculate heart. O Sorrowful and immaculate heart of Mary, pierced by the sword of sorrow prophesied by Simeon, save us from degeneration, presumption, and despair. Protect us from all harm. O sorrowful and immaculate heart of Mary, you who bore the sufferings of your son in the depths of your heart, be our advocate. Pray for us, the community of St. John Vianney College Seminary, that acting always according to the will of your divine son, we may live and die pleasing to God. Amen.
[this prayer is especially used for today’s dedication of the new mosaic of Mary, the New Eve and Star of the Sea at SJVCS]
new mosaic of Mary, the New Eve and Star of the Sea
For the last couple of years, Msgr Michael Carruthers (rector of SJVCS) and Peter Dionne (artist & seminarian, SJVCS class of 2008) have been working on a new mosaic to our Blessed Mother for the chapel gardens. With today’s dedication of the new mosaic to Mary, the New Eve and Star of the Sea, here are some pictures posted by Fr Michael from mosaic conception through completion.
— Wow! Beautiful! Surely our Lady is happy.
Also see dedication ceremony here.
Consecration prayer to Mary here.
CCD hs: parents orientation (day 1)
A local parish, St Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, needed catechists for their Religious Education program on Tuesday & Wednesday nights. Since I go to St Mark’s for Mass occasionally & Wednesday Bible study, I guess I consider it a “2nd home parish,” so I volunteered to help. I was paired up with Jose A., another former seminarian (3 years in Colombia), who’s very excited about our High School Confirmation class of 24 kids, so far. Most showed up today with their parents for a large group orientation with the DRE and pastor in the church. We got to introduce ourselves for about 20 minutes at the end.
— Even though it wasn’t really “planned,” I can already see the blessings that will come from my passion for catechesis being used on Sunday’s at my home parish with 7th graders and here on Tuesday nights with high school teens.
CCD 7th: Intro + prayer “sweet spot”
Today is day 1 of Religious Education (CCD) at my parish. I’m a catechist for 7th grade Pre-Confirmation class with my aide Donny. We had 13 of our 17 kids today, with apparently more signing up late as we speak. A very diverse group from “quiet” to “super-animated.”
We played a classic “get-to-know-you” icebreaker game called “Four Winds Blow.” It’s like musical chairs sitting in a circle. The person in the middle says 3 things about themselves. Then they say “Four winds blow to anyone …” (wearing jeans, wearing gym shoes, with blue eyes, wearing glasses, with ears, etc.) Then everyone that fits the profile needs to get up and get another seat (at least 2 seats over) while the person in the middle tries to get a seat as well. If you get stuck in the middle 3 time, you need to sing a song of your choice. The “Alphabet Song” and a Spongebob song were sang. Lots of fun for all.
I also gave a brief into to the curriculum and talked about finding our “prayer sweet spot” this year. Using a tennis racket and baseball bat, the kids taught me about finding the “sweet spot” to get the best result out of their uses … although similar for many, everyone has their own sweet spot in the way they play sports. Well, our prayer life is very similar. We need to each find what works best for our own individual prayer experience in order to grow. Some like Scripture, some the Rosary, some praise & worship, some music, some poetry, some adoration, some quiet meditation, etc. This year, we’ll have different prayer experience in order to help find our own prayer “sweet spot.”
We wrote down the simple Doxology prayer on index cards and will use it this week as a homework prayer experience. Everyone needs to try praying it at different time, days and ways this week. Next Sunday, we’ll share what worked and what didn’t.
As we discussed the Doxology prayer, we asked the questions like “What is a creature? Can a rock praise God? What’s the difference between angels & humans? What’s a Holy Ghost?” — a very vocal and curious group … we’re blessed to be journeying in our faith together!
— I prayed the Doxology during this post. 🙂
Doxology prayer by Nicole Nordeman
In our religious education class today, we used this short Doxology prayer for reflection. Short, simple, glorifying God, and powerful!
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host:
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Amen.
songs for prayer + formal prayers
These links are scattered on by blog, but wanted them easy to access. I added the following to the bottom of my PRAYER page. I hope they help you pray!
FORMAL PRAYERS:
- Prayer for God’s Will — by Thomas Merton
- Prayer for the Grace of Letting Go
- B.A.P.T.i.S.M. = different forms of prayer
- 5 Finger Prayer = a way to pray petitions & intercessions
- Litany of the Blessed Sacrament — full prayer
SONG FOR PRAYER:
- “Pray” by Kendall Payne — soft, Christian contemporary (personal humbling prayer)
- “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe — soft, Christian praise & worship (heaven)
- “This is a Call” by Thousand Foot Krutch — medium, Christian rock (effectiveness of prayer)
- “Gone” by TobyMac — medium, Christian hip-hop (bad dating relationship)
- “Leaving 99” by Audio Adrenaline — soft, Christian rock (parable of Lost Sheep)
- “Replace Me” by Family Force 5 — hard, Christian rock (submitting to God’s Will)
- “Dare You to Move” by Switchfoot — medium, Christian rock (sin, shame, forgiveness)
- “Meant to Live” by Switchfoot — medium, Christian rock (finding purpose)
- “Somewhere I Belong” by Linkin Park — hard, (feeling & healing)
- “Rise Today” by Alter Bridge — very hard, (finding purpose)
- “Pjanoo” (Original Mix) by Eric Prydz — instrumental, trance
- “Birth of an Angel” by Armin van Buuren — instrumental, trance
prayer is trust, not clarity + Mother Teresa + Kendall Payne
I was looking for a video of Kendall Payne performing her song “Pray” to go along with my post last February. I was not disappointed! Here is a video of per performance at a church.
She tell the story of a man asking Mother Teresa to pray for him. Check it out …
A great song by Kendall Payne (one of my favorite Christian vocalist) that focuses on what real prayer is all about, appropriately titled “Pray” from her latest album, “Grown.” Light guitar, soft vocals, profound meaning, worth posting:
I will pray for you now, for you have been my faithful friends,
While the road we walk is difficult indeed.
I couldn’t not ask for more than what you’ve already been,
Only that you would say these prayers for me.
May your heart break enough that compassion enters in,
May your strength all be spent upon the weak.
All the castles and crowns you build and place upon your head,
May they all fall, come crashing down around your feet.
May you find every step to be harder than the last,
So your character grows greater each stride.
May your company be of humble insignificance,
May your weakness be your only source of pride.
What you dooo unto others,
May it all be done to you.
May you meeeet the One who made us,
And see Him smile when life is through.
May your bleeessings be many,
But not what … you hoped they’d be.
And when you looook upon the broken,
May mercy show you what you could not see.
May you never be sure of any plans you desire,
But you’d learn to trust the plan He has for you.
May your passions be tried and tested in the holy fire,
May you fight with all your life for what is true.
I have prayed for you now all my dear and faithful friends,
But what I wish is more than I could ever speak.
As the way wanders on I’ll long to see you once again,
Until then, would you pray these prayers for me?
Oh, that you would praaay for me.
Project Rachel + Natural Family Planning (NFP)
I read an article on TheFloridaCatholic.org about Rachel’s Vineyard Ministries that offers weekend retreats for women suffering from post-abortion trauma. I added the link to my Sexuality page along with Project Rachel, a ministry available in most diocese for post-abortion counseling.
I also started finding some good links about Natural Family Planning (NFP). It inspired me to finally post the lecture we had on NFP at IPF this past summer. The post is here, with some good external links also on my Sexuality page.
SJVCS Seminary Life Album
July '09 -- hospital chaplains @ IPF
Easter '09 -- Miami SJVCS friends
the Son always finds a break in let the clouds
Feb '09 -- school vocation talks @ AMHS
Feb '09 -- cold breakfast with brothers (Matias, Fenly & Randy), now at SVDP and Imad (at SJVCS)
Superbowl '09 -- eating great @ SJVCS
Sept '08 -- Worklist Coordinators?
St Raphael Chapel mural @ SJVCS
Sept '08 -- retreats @ SJVCS
"It's not easy being green"
Catholic Kermit 
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