Religion

Chapter 1: What is Faith? Faith is a theological virtue, a gift from God, theological means concerning God and the word virtue means a good habit or response There are many different ways to describe faith y y y Faith is a gift of God Faith in an authentically human act, by which we trust in God and his love Faith is the beginning of eternal life

There is only one God: the almighty father, his only Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Trinity always existed and will continue to exist. We are Religious The catholic faith teaches that God created everything in the world out of love. God made humans in such a way that human life is different from all other forms of life on earth. Soul- a spiritual principle of God, humans are made in the image and likeness of God God continually sustains our lives and invites us into relationship with him. Thus we can say that we are religious by vocation- ones calling, purpose or destiny in life. God calls us beyond our selves to friendship with him. All humans share this vocation. How can we fund God? Revelation- to reveal or make known y y One way God comes to us is through the physical world of nature. When we carefully at the physical world, we can appreciate that he exists and is the cause of everything. A second way God shows himself to us is through the human person, our very selves. We can find God through the natural light of the human reason. Humans can sense that there is someone or something more bigger than we are, someone more powerful and allknowing A third way to find God is through other people, especially our family and the Church community. Remember, God is unselfish, unconditional love. Wherever we find people who love us or help us we experience him. A fourth God comes to us is through history. As faith tells us, throughout historical events, he makes himself know to humans. When we look through history in the eyes of faith, it becomes apparent that he is continually at work for our good. Everything good that happens is a manifestation of God to us. When bad things happen, he can somehow use them for good. God cares for humans and acts for their good through events and words. He wishes to share with us his own life and eternal love.

What is the Bible? Christians learn about Gods revelation through the Bible, which is his word recorded by humans, and through tradition which is the living and authentic transmission of the teachings of Jesus in the Church. Scripture and Tradition make up one source of Gods revelation. The bible is a collection of 73 books arranged in two major parts, the Old Testament (46 books) and the New Testament (27).

Old Testament

Torah (Pentateuch) Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy

Historical Books Joshua Judges Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Kings 2 Kings 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Tobit Judith Esther 1 Maccabees 2 Maccabees

Wisdom Books Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Songs (Song of Solomon) Wisdom Sirach (Ecclesisaticus)

The Prophets Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Baruch Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Johan Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

New Testament

Gospels

Historical Books

Apocalyptic

Letters (Epistles)

Matthew Mark Luke John

Acts

Revelation

Romans 1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 Peter 2 Peter 1 John 2 John 3 John Jude

Covenant- a promise or agreement between two people Messiah- savoir Creed- a way the Church summarizes the tasks of the Apostles Apostles creed- dates back to the first decades of the Church, perhaps coming from an earlier creed knows as the Old Roman Creed. We believe that the Apostles Creed conveys the mind or intention of the Twelve Apostles. Creed is said at Baptism Nicene Creed- a statement formulated by the Church leaders at the Council of Nicaea in A.D 325. Creed is said at Sunday mass. Dignity- worthwhile and deserving of respect Free Will- the ability to make decisions without being forced to choose or act in a certain way Grace- our sharing in life of God that God gives us to respond to his call to become children of God, adoptive sons, partakers in the divine nature of eternal life What is Prayer? Prayer is the tool for making our relationship with God real Prayer can be between an person and God (private prayer) or between a community and God (communal prayer)

Different times to pray: y y y y y y y y In the morning, soon after waking While watching a beautiful sunrise or sunset While listening to the ocean waves In the car during the morning or evening, driving to and from school or work While taking a walk In church At mass At night, before bed

Open to Gods Gift of Faith 1. Think about and appreciate the beauty around you- in yourself, in your family and friends, in your world 2. Listen to your thoughts and reactions throughout the day. Recognize these thoughts and reactions, but do not judge them. Relax with them and let them make you deeper in your spiritual core. 3. Take time each day to pause and slow down. Takes some deep breaths to slow down your thoughts and to focus on what God may be trying to say to you. 4. Find good friends. Participate in a faith-based community. Dont be afraid to ask questions about faith or share your own insights. 5. Do good deeds. Be kind to others. Be sincerely interested in helping others. Start small, but believe that you really can make a difference in the lives of others. 6. Develop a habit of prayer. Sometimes pray for the strength you need to be true to yourself. Other times, pray for the needs of others. 7. Develop a group of peers with whom you can pray Thomas Merton: Trappist monk, wrote the Seven Storey Mountain Chapter 2: Evolution- theory about life presented by Darwin, natural selection, all living things evolved from one single organism by natural means Creationism- based on literal interpretation of the Genesis story: God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh Atheism- the belief there is no God The Story of the Fall- Adam and Eve betrayed God and were forced away from him, believed to be the first original sin Polytheism- belief there is more than one god Monotheism- belief that there is only one God Attributes of God:

y y y y y

y y y y y

Power. We believe that God is omnipotent; this means all-powerful. God created everything, God rules everything. Majesty. We believe that God is the Lord of the universe, infinitely more mighty than the earthly kings and presidents. God is almighty in heaven and on earth Wisdom. We believe that God knows all things and has perfect judgment. He never makes a mistake. Love. We believe that God is perfect, unselfish, abounding, steadfast love. Gods very being is love. Mercy. We believe that God is compassionate and forgiving. He does not punish us as our sins deserve. Instead he is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he has loved us, even when we do wrong Justice. We believe that God respects the true dignity of humans and treats all people fairly. He deals equally with those who are rich and those who are poor. Patience. We believe that God is long suffering and slow anger. Truth. We believe that God is truth. His word can always be trusted. Indeed, God is truth itself. Faithfulness. We believe that God abounds in fidelity or faithfulness. Goodness. We believe that God is perfect goodness. Indeed, God is infinitely good. His works are good too. For this reason, we give thanks to the lord for his good.

Idolatry- worship of a false god God the Father- first person in the Holy Trinity God the Son- second person in the Holy Trinity God the Holy Spirit- third person in the Holy Trinity, advocate, sanctifier, helper Angles- pure spirits, continually behold the face of God in heaven; they act as his servants and messengers Stewardship- humankind is to take care of the earth and all that is upon it Original sin- the choice to sin by preferring yourself over God Salvation- Gods forgiveness of sins and the complete reconciliation of humans with him through Jesus Ten Commandments- the ten fundamental moral laws given by God to his people 1. 2. 3. 4. I, the Lord, am your God: you shall not have strange gods before me. You shall not take the name of the Lord in vein. Remember to keep holy the Lords day (Sunday) Honor your mother and father. y Respect and obey parents, grandparents, guardians, and others who have proper authority 5. You shall not kill. y Respect and protect your life and the lives of others.

6. You shall not commit adultery. y Be faithful to spouses, friends and family. y Respect Gods gift of sexuality, and practice the virtue of chastity. y Learn to appreciate the gift of sexuality by practicing self-mastery. Be aware of sins contrary to chastity, masturbation, fornication, pornography, and homosexual acts. 7. You shall not steal. y Respect the things that belong to others. Share what you have with those in need. 8. You shall not bare false witness against your neighbor. y Be honest and truthful. Avoid bragging. y Dont say untruthful or negative things about others 9. You shall not covet your neighbors wife. y Dont lust after another persons spouse. y Practice modesty in your thoughts, words, dress, and actions 10. You shall not covet your neighbors goods. y Rejoice in others good fortune. y Dont be jealous of others possessions. y Dont be greedy. Liturgy- the official public prayer of the Church, the original meaning was a public work or service in the name or on behalf of people Baptism- the first sacrament celebrated in the Church The symbols of baptism: y Water is a reminder of the waters God created at the beginning of the world, the waters that eventually gave birth to all material forms of life. The water washes away original sin. Through the water it is recalled how God helped the ancient Israelites escape from Egypt, cross the waters of the Red Sea, and later cross the Jordan River to enter the promise land Oil, called chrism, is a reminder that God has chosen and called each one to be his own. The baptized person is anointed with the Holy Spirit and given a mission to live as a follower of Jesus. Candle is a reminder that Jesus is the light of the world and that all those who are called to bring light to others. White garment is a reminder of purification and being clothed in Christ, to live in imitation of him.

y y

Matrimony- marriage, celebrates the commitment of a man and women both being baptized Christians, to love each other in imitation of the faithfulness of God. Adoration- worship and honor given to God Your relationship with God:

1. You will be humble because you will never forget your place before God. You remember that you are the created and that he is the creator. Your purpose is to serve him, and not the other way around 2. You will live every day with a sense of thanksgiving for the gift of life, in imitation of Jesus, who always thanked his father you are ever mindful that everything you have comes from God, not just from your own efforts. 3. You recognize the human dignity of all people- regardless of age, race, gender, or nationality- that comes to everyone through the power of the Holy Spirit. You believe every person is made in the image of God and is therefore worthy of respect. 4. You accept your responsibility to take care of the world. You try to make good use of created things because you know they are not God and cannot make you completely happy. You dont worship created things; instead you worship him alone 5. You trust God in every circumstance. You truly believe that all things work together for the good for those who love God. He not only created you; he also sustains you through Jesus, his son, and the gift of the Holy Spirit and helps you reach him- your destiny. Cesar Chavez- formed the National Farm Workers Association in search of better work rights Chapter 3: Gospel- good news Jesus- Yessuah means God saves; the full revelation of Gods saving love Christ- Christos means anointed one Incarnation- to become flesh or take on a human body Reconcile- to bring together in harmony Holiness- implies the state of becoming more like God, living in his presence or with his love Annunciation- the announcement by the angel Gabriel that, through the power of the Holy Spirit Mary was going to give birth to Gods son who would be called Jesus Mary- though a virgin became the mother of Jesus Immaculate Conception- god preserving Mary from all stain of original sin since her conception Assumption- the taking up of Mary to heave body and soul Epiphany- a revealing or showing; after Jesus birth, God revealed to people other than the Jews, represented by the magi, that Jesus was the long promised messiah Jesuss miracles: healing, exorcisms, raising the dead, and nature miracles Transfiguration- Jesus reveals his divine glory to the Apostles The kingdom of God-

The kingdom of God is a central teaching of Jesus. The kingdom is present in him. Jesus reveals Gods kingdom through his life death and resurrection. The kingdom is present however when God is present, especially in the Eucharist and the Church. You can live in Gods kingdom when you show love for him and other people in your daily life. His kingdom is present incompletely now and will be realized fully at the end of time. God calls everyone to enter the kingdom, people of all nations, those who are poor, lowly, and sinners. According to Jesus, his kingdom especially belongs to those who are poor and lowly. These people are without worldly influence or means to protect themselves against injustice and oppression. Jesus teaches anyone wishing to enter the kingdom must first show an active love towards those who are poor. To enter the kingdom of God, on emust truly seek it. Words are not enough; deeds are required. Faith in God calls us to make a radical choice. We must not only turn away from sin; sometimes we must also sacrifice earthly goods in order to follow Jesus. We must sell all in order to purchase the pearl of great price We can gain access to the kingdom of God through the Church. Jesus gives the keys yo Gods kingdom to Peter, who is to be the leader of his Church.

Beatitudes- the foundation of Jesus message and of Christian life, means blessed or happy and in the beatitudes Jesus teaches about the meaning and the path to true happiness. The beatitudes: y y y y y You depend on God rather than other things, and you believe that helping others is more important than acquiring things. You are aware of the suffering of others and walk with them in their grief; your grieving is not dominated by selfishness. You are humble, gentle, and patient with yourself and others. You stand up for what is right at the rights of others; you work for a more just world and the fullness of Gods kingdom. You readily forgive others from the heart, refusing to hold a grudge, and you forgive yourself as you seek Gods forgiveness and forgiveness from those you have hurt or harmed. You live peacefully with others and promote peace between people and groups. You make a stand for what you believe in, even when you suffer emotional or physical pain as a result of your decision.

y y

Katherine Drexel- gave all of her life inheritance to charities Chapter 4: Suffering Servant- one who unjustly but willingly, suffer and die for others Passion- Jesuss suffering and death Resurrection- razing of Jesus Paschal mystery- Jesus passion, death, and resurrection Redemption- Gods loving plan

Blasphemy- showing contempt or lack of reverence for God and his name Crucifixion- being tied or nailed to a cross Ascension- the departure of Jesus ascending to heaven Second coming- the unexpected event at the end of time, Christ comes again Sin- an offense against God, it breaks or damages our communication with him and with the Church Mortal sin- a very serious wrong where you have full knowledge of the sin and that it is wrong and it is completed with intention Venial sin- a serious wrong without full knowledge or free will, no intention Social sin- affects a community Capital sins- 7 deadly sins pride, envy, anger, sloth, greed, gluttony, and lust Holy Thursday- Thursday before Easter Good Friday- Friday before Easter, the passion and death of Jesus Easter Vigil- Saturday night before Easter: y y y y The Service of Light The Liturgy of the Word The Liturgy of Baptism The Liturgy of the Eucharist

Sacramental- holy signs used by Catholics that have certain similarities to the sacraments that help us pray and remember Gods love for us Elizabeth Ann Seton- opened the first North American Catholic Orphanage Chapter 5: Pentecost- the Holy Spirit promised by Jesus 50 days after Easter Symbols of the Holy Spirit: y Water. Water is used for cleansing and quenching thirst. The Holy Spirit can do this for our spiritual being. Water is also a symbol for the action of the action of the Holy Spirit in Baptism. Anointing with Oil Oil can be used for food, for healing, and to produce light. Once a person is anointed with oil they are made sacred or set apart for God. This occurs in Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. Fire. Fire is a source of warmth and light. Fire is a symbol of the transforming energy of the Holy Spirit.

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y y y

Clouds and Light. These are used to illustrate Gods guidance and protection. They appear together in the Bible as expressions of the Holy Spirit. Seal. This is a stamp used as a mark of identity and also signified a covenant between two people. We see this demonstrated in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders. Hand. Laying ones hand on another show conferring or giving power. When the apostles laid their hands on new converts, the Holy Spirit was given to them. Finger. The finger is used in the Bible to reference the power of God and His actions. It is also the symbol of the Holy Spirit who wrote Gods law on the tablets of stone. Dove. The dove is the traditional symbol of Gods love and his presence. This symbol appears during the Baptism of Jesus as the spirit of God descending upon him.

Gifts of the Holy Spirit: y y y y y y y Wisdom means to see clearly/allows us to see the whole picture/ helps us view ourselves and others as God does Knowledge not about book smarts/ knowing somebody from having a personal relationship/ allows one to grow in friendship with God Courage helps one to give witness to faith and stand up for what is right/persevere in faith, even if discouraged also called fortitude Reverence honoring God, ourselves, and others/giving all respect and their due/responding to Gods goodness in prayer and worship (piety) Understanding grasping the truth about a person or situation/seeing the world from perspective of God and others/leads to reconciliation during conflict Right Judgment helps us make moral decisions/often involves asking others for help and giving advice to others/also called counsel Wonder/Awe allows to remain open to the sometimes surprising presence of God/helps one to appreciate mystery of Trinity also called fear of the Lord

Church- the people that God has gathered together through the entire world, the Body of Christ and the Temple of the Holy Spirit church- Lords house, Gods dwelling, a building or actual architectural structure Marks of the Church: 1. One is referring to being united together in: - one founder, - one Holy Spirit, - one faith, - one leadership, - Within the Catholic Church are 22 smaller churches which have their own liturgy,spirituality, and laws (called tradition)

- This diversity is an asset and brings richness to the Church 2. Holy means sacred, pure like God - Church helps members become more like God - Jesus was holy and since His presence is found in the Church, it is holy as well - achieved through hearing and reflecting on Scripture, celebrating liturgy, and joining in prayer - The Church strives to be an example of holy living in a world that sin exists. 3. Catholic can be defined as universal - Churchs mission to share the gospel with all people - Jesus himself in Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit - The Church welcomes members of all races, countries, economic backgrounds, ages, and cultures. 4. Apostolic means of the Apostles. - the Church is built on the foundation of the Apostles who were chosen to witness His message and lead His followers - continues to pass on the Apostles teachings guided by the Holy Spirit - lead by the successors of the Apostles, the bishops and pope

Holy Orders- a Sacrament at Service of Communion in which men promise to devote their lives to the Church as deacons, priests, or bishops. Fruits of the Holy Spirit: y y y y y the good effects actions have on others when living in the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit helps us to determine what is right and wrong, it is not as simple as just followingrules. In this we are sanctified or made holy. Jesus uses a metaphor to explain whether or not living in the Holy Spirit, that is that our actions willhave good effects on others. The good fruits that we want to bear are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness,gentleness, self-control, goodness, modesty, and chastity. These are known as the fruits of the Holy Spirit and if we do not live in the Holy Spirit our actions will have the opposite effect.

Actual grace- the assistance God gives us in a particular need, to perform a particular good action, or to avoid evil.

Sanctifying grace- is Gods indwelling in us, makes us friends with God; it makes us holy. When in the state of sanctifying grace we actually share or participate in the divine nature of God. Types of Prayer: y Adoration

- Acknowledges God as our Creator - Blesses God as source of every blessing in life now and forever - EXAMPLE: Gloria (Glory to God) y Petition

- Asking God for something we need - Request is not necessarily for something physical can be aid in dealing with a dilemma or choice - EXAMPLE: Our Father y Intersession

- Asking God to help others - This may include those who are enemies - EXAMPLE: Prayer of the Faithful y Thanksgiving

- Expressing gratitude for something God has done - This can be something we have received or others have benefited from - EXAMPLE: Grace Before Meals y Praise

- Giving God glory simply for his own sake - Not a focus on what he has provided - EXAMPLE: Glory to God y Contrition

- Expressing sorrow for the sins we have committed - Asking for forgiveness

Church as a people of God and Body of Christ y y y y y y In the Old Testament, God chooses the Israelites to be his chosen people In sending Jesus, he establishes a new covenant which calls together all races Through the power of the Holy Spirit, he establishes the Church as the people of God Jesus assembles all faithful members as his body This is also made up through the Holy Spirit and the grace of sacraments, especially Eucharist The Church lives in and for Jesus, Jesus lives in and with the Church

Sacramental people/grace y y y y y y Sacramental people experience growth in spirituality and their relationship with the Trinity through receiving the sacraments. This is another way that the Church shows its unity with Jesus through celebrating the sacraments. Grace can be best defined as sharing in Gods life and friendship. Through grace we are able experience Gods saving love, mercy, and forgiveness. We have to remember that we do not have to merit or earn grace from God. There are two types of grace:

1. Actual grace: the assistance given by God for a particular need, to perform a good action, or to avoid sin 2. Sanctifying grace: Gods divine life within us which makes us his friends y y y We need to remember that because has given us freedom, humans are prone to sin. Mortal sins have a damaging effect on the sanctifying grace within us. But even then, God provides us with actual graces that move us to repent or be sorry for our sins and restore our relationship with him.

Sacraments of Initiation y y At the Easter Vigil mass, new members of the Catholic Church are initiated. This is accomplished through 3 sacraments:

1. Baptism begins new life 2. Confirmation strengthens that life 3. Eucharist nourishes Christs followers Sealed in the Sacraments y y y We identified earlier that one of the symbols used for the Holy Spirit is a seal. Some of the Sacraments we receive place a permanent seal or mark on us. These seals are not marks that are visible on our body, they are within us, on our souls.

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This occurs in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and for some Holy Orders. Oil was also identified as a symbol of the Holy Spirit and is used to anoint those in these sacraments.

1. Baptism, through this sacrament: - original sin is forgiven - we become an adopted child of God - given grace necessary for salvation - incorporated in the Church 2. Confirmation, through this sacrament: - celebrant prays that the Holy Spirit will come upon the candidate - candidate is anointed with chrism which represents the seal of the Holy Spirit - graces received in Baptism are deepened 3. Holy Orders, through this sacrament: - bishop consecrates the individual and asks God for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit - the Holy Spirit strengthens the new priest in his vocation and ministry - the new priest hands are anointed with chrism as a sign of his permanent service to act as an ordained leader in the Church y y y All of these sacraments allow us to share in the life of God. It is important to remember that the act of being anointed does not automatically make one holy or prevent them from ever sinning. This is a life-long pursuit Receiving the Holy Spirit helps an individual to strengthen their identity as a Christian and grow in holiness.

Chapter 6:

Importance of groups y y y In our discussion of adolescence we also looked at the difference between conformity and independence Conformity we defined as going along with the rules or behaviors that the group has in place Independence is having your own ideas about what is right.

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When we covered adolescence we identified that one of the components of it is social and that during this time we find out who we are and how we fit in with others Adolescence is not a solo journey, it involves other people This extends to our spirituality, these groups help to define our personal identity

If we look to the Bible, the idea of an assembly of the faithful, or Church, can be seen when: 1. God calls on an entire people to enter into friendship with Him (Abraham) 2. When Jesus establishes the new covenant it is also with many people (Matthew 28:19) 3. Both of these examples show that faith is not just a private matter 4. Faith has a social dimension which involves our group identity The mission of the Church is to continue the work of Christ and begin a sign of the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God that Christ will bring to perfection at the end of time had already begun. Communion of Saints- all faithful church members on earth, in heaven, in purgatory; communion in holy things (sancta) and among holy things (sancti) Laity- are not ordained, but share in the common priesthood of all the faithful through their baptism. Bishops- successors of the Apostles today Pope- leader of the Catholic Church, bishop of Rome Magisterium- the living teaching authority of the college of bishops in union with the pope Ecumenical Council- the college of bishops in union with the pope exercises its teaching authority in Church meetings Vatican Council I- December 1869-1870 Vatican Council II- October 1962-1965 Religious Vows- poverty, chastity, and obedience, remain celibate (unmarried) and usually live in community Responsibilities of Ordained Ministers y y y They teach the true faith. This happens when they give homilies at mass and teach in a variety of situations They sanctify, or make holy, the Church by celebrating the sacraments with the people and praying the Liturgy for Hours They govern or lead the Church. Bishops and priests serve the people as true pastors. Most bishops head geographic areas in the Church known as dioceses

Priestly Office- lay people offer everything in life as a spiritual sacrifice to God through Jesus Christ

Prophetic Office- lay people teach others about Gods kingdom through the example of their own lives and through involvement in catechetical formation, advising clergy in temporal matters, and faithfully obeying the magisterium Kingly Office- lay people strive to bring justice to the world by being involved in the parish and diocesan councils, by serving on parish finance committees, by working with those who are poor and in need. Ecumenism- the effort to strive toward unity among all Christian peoples, this involves communication, cooperation with people and other Christian faiths. Seven Themes of Modern Catholic Social Teaching 1. Life and the Dignity of Human Person y y y all life is sacred and everyone is deserving of dignity people are more important than material things institutions should be measured by whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of human beings

2. Call to Family, Community, and Participation y y y focus should not be on the individual but society at large this applies to family as well as community we are called to be active in shaping a society that allows others to flourish

3. Rights and Responsibilities y y the way to achieve dignity is by protecting basic rights for all humans we are responsible for acknowledging these rights of others

4. Option for the Poor and Vulnerable y y y a society should be judged on how it treats its vulnerable members this does not condemn those who prosper but recognizes that consideration needs to be given to thosewho are at a disadvantage acting in this manner is beneficial to the entire community

5. Rights of Workers y y y profits should not supersede the rights of workers the economy should serve people, not the other way around protecting the rights of workers includes fair wages, productive work, freedom to organize

6. Solidarity y y y we should not isolate ourselves from the problems of others we are called to be our brothers and sisters keepers loving our neighbor should be a global concept

7. Care for Gods Creations y y we are called to be stewards of Gods creation care for the earth enables a safe and healthy environment for us and those in the future

Model of Catholic Social teaching y y y y y y y y As first follower of Jesus and member of the Church, Mary is an example of how to live the social gospel Although pregnant, she overlooked her own needs traveling to help her cousin Elizabeth At the wedding reception at Cana, Mary showed concern for the bride and groom and asked Jesus to help After Jesus Ascension, Mary remained with the Apostles and encouraging them in their faith Early Christians followed her example They would sell their goods and distributed the profits to those in need They also showed solidarity by helping others during a famine We can follow in the footsteps of these role models by embracing the principles of: solidarity, friendship, social charity, and brotherhood

Precepts of the Church 1. To keep holy the day of the Lords resurrection: to worship God by participating in mass every Sunday and holy day of obligation; to avoid those activities that would hinder renewal of soul and body on the Sabbath 2. To lead a sacramental life; to receive Holy Communion frequently and the sacrament of reconciliation regularly- minimally, to receive the sacrament of reconciliation at least once a year minimally also to receive Holy Communion once a year, between the first Sunday of Lent and Trinity Sunday 3. To study catholic teaching in preparation for the sacrament of confirmation, to be confirmed, and then to continue to study and advance the cause of Christ. 4. To observe, the marriage laws of the Church; to give religious training, by examples and word, to ones children; to use parish schools and catechetical programs 5. To strengthen and support the Church-ones own parish community and parish priest, the worldwide church and the pope 6. To do penance, including abstaining from meat and fasting from food on the appointed days 7. To join the missionary spirit and apostolate the church Liturgy of the Eucharist y y y One of the Church precepts is to participate in Mass every Sunday and the third is living a sacramentallife. We have to realize without the Eucharist there can be no Church. We can nourish our spiritual life through prayer and participation in the sacraments, especially the

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Eucharist. It strengthens the bonds of community between Church members and encourages them to carry on this goal with others throughout the week. Only ordained priests can preside at the Eucharist and consecrate the bread and wine to become the body and blood of Christ Presentation and Preparation of Gifts o members of the gathered bring bread and wine to the altar o priest prays over the bread and wine that sacrifice may be acceptable to God o washes hands as an expression of desire to be purified Eucharistic Prayer o begins with preface which gives thanks and praise to God for his salvation history o followed by the epiclesis which asks that the bread and wine become the Body and Blood through The power of the Holy Spirit o it also asks that all who share in the Eucharist may be one body and one spirit o institution narrative, priest speaks the words of consecration spoken by Jesus at the Last Supper o transubstantiation change of substance of bread and wine into Body and Blood of Jesus Christ o memorial acclamation is the profession of belief in the Paschal Mystery o anamnesis is the remembrance of Christs sacrifice of love and how He enabled us to reconcilewith God o prayers for the entire Church community follow o ends with the Doxology which gives glory and honor to God Communion Rite o begins with the Lords Prayer and then congregants are invited to give a sign of Peace o receiving communion should occur in a state of grace o receiving the sacrament allows us to form one body in Christ o ends the Liturgy of the Eucharist After the Liturgy of the Eucharist is the concluding rite or dismissal The priest commissions us to go and serve God through our relationships and works This includes a prayer of blessing which means to grant one favor or gifts. Blessing is really a request that Gods gifts be given to certain people, objects, places, or occasionsin human life.

Seven Secrets to being a successful Catholic 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Stay close to the Eucharist Be an active member of the faith and community Rely on your conscience and good judgment, but never alone Regularly do things that call you out of yourself in service to others Always remember that God is a merciful and forgiving Live in the moment, recognizing daily opportunities for holiness

7. Believe in prayer and pray regularly Chapter 7:

Forgiveness is NOT:
y excusing a hurtful or sinful action - this is saying that whatever happened does not matter or is okay - this implies that we are tolerating the action - one must recognize that people are responsible for their decisions and actions exempting or releasing a criminal from punishment - punishment is a just consequence when a persons action merit it - one can forgive an individual but still want them to be penalized - punishment is necessary to prevent criminals from endangering others acting as if nothing wrong has happened - the book uses the term rolling over and playing dead - forgiveness can be given but we should not forget the action is wrong

Forgiveness is:
y in terms of the person receiving it - being shown love and mercy - being treated with the dignity owed as a person made in Gods image in terms of the person granting it - releasing the resentment which the individual is entitled to acting as we are called to by the teachings of Jesus - treating the offender as we would like to be treated in the same situation - having the courage to resist the natural tendency to get even God and Forgiveness God is the only person that can forgive sin or the offense against Him Individuals can forgive the person and by doing so, it demonstrates his Grace working through us Forgiveness is not always something we grant but it is also something that is given to us

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Conscience formation:
Our conscience is the internal voice that lets us know the difference between right and wrong Our aim should be to develop a healthy conscience. This is achieved by balancing the beliefs that: everything we do is right (lax conscience) everything we do is wrong (overactive conscience) We should recognize that no one is perfect. In addition to following our conscience at all times our decision making process should include: honestly searching for the truth praying about the choice and its consequences trying to understand what God is asking us to do in the situation

Forgiveness and Conversion

y y y The forgiveness received is closely connected with conversion, a heartfelt process of change. In conversion, individuals turn away from sin and towards God. This is illustrated through the story of Paul.

Jesus and forgiveness

y y y y We have identified that Jesus called us to forgive others without end. Jesus himself forgave sins and this was one of the reasons that he was accused of beingblasphemous. Jesus did this for two reasons: to show Gods love for others and point out his identity as the Son of God. In addition to conversion, Jesus calls us to repentance which requires:an admission of wrongdoing which can be difficult, a need to show contrition or sincere sorrow for the sin we have committed, a resolution to do better in the future

Prayers of Forgiveness
y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y Act of Contrition: said during the sacrament of Reconciliation and expresses sorrow for sin, desire to not sin again Penitential Psalms: lamentations that express sorrow (lamentation means crying out or grieving) and cover individual and communal expressions of contrition, many discuss situations that have past where forgiveness was granted Penitential Rite: occurs during Mass in one of three possible forms and asks for mercy Jesus Prayer: short, meditative prayer that is repeated which is known as an aspiration

Church and Forgiveness

The Church teaches that the power to forgive sins in Gods name has been given to the church. This is transmitted through Holy Orders to the clergy. Our apostolic responsibilities call on us to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins in the name of God, just as the Apostles first did. The Church has four sacraments that covey Gods forgiveness

Baptism
cleansed of sin and become members of the Church first and chief sacrament in forgiveness of sins takes away original sin and any sins that may have been committed unites us in Christ and gives us the Holy Spirit

Reconciliation
profession of conversion to Christ, promise of turning away from evil to walk in light a sacrament of healing has four main parts: contrition, confession, penance, absolution

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Any sins confessed during Reconciliation are kept in secrecy, called the seal of the sacrament Contrition sincere sorrow for sins and true intent to do better Confession telling sins to a priest and required confession of all mortal sins Penance an act the person must perform (usually fasting, prayer, and almsgiving) to show the sincerity of their repentance and willingness to repair the harm caused by sin Absolution the bishops and priests, acting in Gods name, forgiveness of sins.

Eucharist
Church teaches that participation in the Eucharist wipes away venial sins It also helps preserve us from mortal sins participation must be sincere formal forgiveness of sins belongs to Reconciliation

Anointing of the Sick

God forgives sins and initiates spiritual and physical healing unites the sick person with the suffering of Christ forgives venial and mortal sins if a person is sorry but is too ill to confess them prepares the person for earthly death and passage to everlasting life can be celebrated for the elderly, seriously ill, or those dying Last Rites refers to Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, and Eucharist received by a dying person.

Forgiveness of Others
y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y We are also called to forgive ourselves and others who commit wrongdoings against us. This is done for two reasons: to show gratitude to God for forgiving us we are called to be merciful (Lords Prayer and Beatitudes) Forgiving others is not easy, it can be looked at in the same way that we looked at conversion. It is a process that usually has four stages We feel pain and before we can begin to heal, it is necessary to feel the hurt We feel anger towards the offender this can manifest itself in the form of hate, anger and revulsion We gradually heal as we move away from the event, the hurt lessens. We open ourselves to love again and we rediscover things like trust and love We are not only asked to not only forgive those who hurt us, but are challenged to go further than that to love our enemies. In the Beatitudes, just as we are asked to be merciful we are also asked to be peacemakers. We have identified that when we grant another forgiveness it leads to us being free of anger or Resentment that we may have towards another individual. The absence of these negative feelings allows us to be at peace. We should strive to have:

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Peace of Mind: this relates back to the formation of a healthy conscience and realize that we are notperfect (in dealing with ourselves) Peace with Others: we should have the courage to let go of the desire to get even (in dealing with others) which relates to our call to forgive and be merciful to remember the forgiveness that God has shown us Peace with God: this relates to showing contrition and a resolution to live better and we shouldreceive the sacraments of forgiveness In the Beatitudes, Jesus stated Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children ofGod. In addition, we have identified on numerous occasions that all human life is sacred because we were made in Gods image. Due to both of these things, we have an obligation to renounce violence, bloodshed, terrorism, and to whenever possible avoid war.

Churchs Stance on War

The historical perspective of the Churchs position on war is varied. In earlier centuries, the pope called on Christians to battle for a religious cause which is called a crusade. Today, members of the clergy will accompany troops to the battlefield. The Churchs policy towards war is very broad: - it supports those who are opposed to a war - it recognizes the rights that people and countries have to defend themselves (or their neighbors) under certain conditions. There are two classifications of those who are against war: Pacifists: those individuals who are against all wars Conscience Objectors: those individuals against specific wars because of the belief that they are being fought for immoral reasons

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Just war Doctrine

The conditions under which a war is morally acceptable is known as the just-war doctrine and it hasto meet the following: - There must be a just cause for going to war. - the damage from the aggressor must be lasting, grave, and certain - going to war should never be for ones own gain  example of a just cause would be for protection against an aggressor - The war must be declared by competent authority - an act of US Congress declaring war would be an example - There must be a right intention for going to war - as mentioned earlier a just reason would be self-defense or prevention of violence - War must be the last resort after all other means to keep peace have failed  examples of other means would be diplomacy, economic sanctions - An excessive amount of force (weapons) cannot be used - the use of force should not produce evil which is greater than that the one it is trying to

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eliminate Civilians must not be the targets of war actions, directly or indirectly people who are not involved in combat must be protected even if it comes at the expense of achieving success The war must not produce worse suffering the damage that is a result of the war even if obtains its objective must not make the conditions worse