Crusades
In the video "Crusades," by Mr. Corwin, available on YouTube (9:35), a middle-school history teacher explains it all, with good visuals. It is appropriate for use on day 3.
Church History
218 results
Featured Resources
The Mission of the Church
Jesus has just risen from the tomb. Although you and all the other Christians are overjoyed, you now have to decide what to do. You are one of the followers who has been with Jesus for more than two years. …
Video
Jesus the Lord, by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits
The song/video "Jesus the Lord,” by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits," available on YouTube (6:24) with lyrics, is best used on day 4.
Document
Chapter K: Let Your Voice Be Heard: Synod on Cyberbullying
Students are challenged to write a speech as if they were a member of Pope Francis’ synod addressing the problem of cyberbullying.
Document
Chapter J: Major Events in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries
Students order important events from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Document
Chapter I: Tough Questions
The worksheet poses several questions that ask students to reflect on how they would have stood up for their faith during the French and American Revolution.
Document
Chapter G: Design a Monastery
Students design a monastery based on the responsibilities and needs of the monks.
Document
Chapter F: Church Father Unscramble
Unscramble the names of the Church Fathers below. Then, under each unscrambled name, write one important contribution that the Church Father made to the Church.
Document
Chapter E: Early Christians Plant the Seeds
On this worksheet, students solve clues to list the names of important early Christians. These answers are then used to decode a secret message.
Video
Pope Francis Joins Religious Leaders of Different Faiths, in Fight against Modern Slavery
The video "Pope Francis Joins Religious Leaders of Different Faiths, in Fight against Modern Slavery," by Rome Reports, available on YouTube (3:07), shows people of faith working together to eliminate one of the world’s greatest evils, slavery. It is best …
Video
Pope Francis in Action
The video "Pope Francis in Action," by Catholic News Service, available on YouTube (1:26), features the Pope at World Youth Day 2013. It is best used on day 3 or day 4.
Video
Pope Francis Speaks
The video "Pope Francis Speaks," by Catholic News Service, available on YouTube (9:27), is a video of the Pope’s remarks from the balcony of Saint Peter’s on the night of his election. It is best used on day 3.
Video
Pope Paul VI—The Pilgrim Pope
The video "Pope Paul VI—The Pilgrim Pope," by Salt and Light, available on YouTube (2:37), chronicles Pope Paul VI’s role in the Second Vatican Council, increasing Christian unity—including lifting the excommunication of the Greek Orthodox Patriarch—and bringing the Good News …
Video
Vaticanum Secundum (Opening of the Second Vatican Council)
The video "Vaticanum Secundum (Opening of the Second Vatican Council)," by Caeremoniale Romanum, available on YouTube (3:33), is the opening ceremony of Vatican Council II. The first of three videos. In Italian (no subtitles), but the pictures are worth a …
Video
The Catholic Church during World War II
The video "The Catholic Church during World War II," by heptagonofnerds, available on YouTube (2:47), is done by a teen and addresses the issue of the Catholic Church and the Jews. It presents realistically what Pope Pius XII and the …
Video
St. Thomas More
The video "St. Thomas More," by catholicnewsagency, available on YouTube (2:01), shows the strong Catholic faith of Saint Thomas More and how he stood up to King Henry VIII instead of recognizing the Church of England. It is best used …
Video
Turning Points in History—The Reformation
The video "Turning Points in History—The Reformation," available on YouTube (2:28), is a good presentation of the conflict between Martin Luther and the Catholic Church. It is best used on day 2.
Video
Crusades
In the video "Crusades," by Mr. Corwin, available on YouTube (9:35), a middle-school history teacher explains it all, with good visuals. It is appropriate for use on day 3.
Video
Fall of the Roman Empire
The video "Fall of the Roman Empire," available on YouTube (12:44), is an entertaining crash course in Roman history. Two segments show the differences between the Eastern and Western Empires (begin at 5:06) and the Eastern and Western Churches (begin …
Video
The Nicene Creed in Original Greek
The video "The Nicene Creed in Original Greek," proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI and the Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I, is available on YouTube (2:28) with excellent photos of the two prelates, art, and icons. It is best used …
Video
Catholic History in Less than Five Minutes: (4) The Early Church Fathers
The video "Catholic History in Less than Five Minutes: (4) The Early Church Fathers," by Pat McNamara, is available on YouTube (4:47). It is best used on day 1.
Video
Jesus Urging His Disciples to Stay Awake
The video "Jesus Urging His Disciples to Stay Awake," by Turnback to God, available on YouTube (5:32), is an animated account of Jesus at prayer in Gethsemane (an amalgamation of Gospel accounts). It is best used on day 4.
Document
Exercise Your Catechism
This handout guides students as they become familiar with searching for information in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Document
Joy and Hope for the Modern World
This handout provides questions for students to reflect on and answer as they read quotations from this Constitution.
Document
Renaissance Humanism
This handout provides questions for students to research on the Internet about Renaissance Humanism.
Document
Encouragement in Persecution
This handout outlines a writing assignment in which students write a letter to an imaginary Roman friend who is enduring persecution in the Empire. Students must use Scripture passages to help them in the writing process.
Document
The Seven Petitions
On this handout, students match the meaning to each line of the Lord’s Prayer.
Document
A Prayer Puzzle
On this handout, students must use clues to unscramble words related to prayer.
Document
Spirit Telecom: The Universal Wireless Prayer Network
This handout guides students as they locate and read various Scripture passages focusing on the many way God calls us to prayer.
Document
The Spirit in Multiple Acts
Students look up and read several passages that the Holy Spirit. The worksheet asks students to summarize each passage and describe the role of the Holy Spirit in spreading the Good News.
Video
Burning in My Soul
The song/video "Burning in My Soul," by Matt Maher, available on YouTube (3:45), provides a nice connection to Pentecost and the modern listener and is appropriate for use on day 4.
Video
Forever (Live)
The song/video "Forever (Live)," by Kari Jobe, available on YouTube (6:50) with lyrics, is a good opening prayer for day 4. The video can be shortened to 4:38.
Video
Resurrection Cartoon
The video "Resurrection Cartoon," available on YouTube (3:05), offers a fun portrayal of the Resurrection and is appropriate for use on day 1.
Video
Mary's Role in the Catholic Church
The video "Mary’s Role in the Catholic Church," available on YouTube (3:52), is used in the "She Is Your Mother" activity on day 2.
Video
Mary, Did You Know? (The Bible)
The song/video "Mary, Did You Know? (The Bible)," by CeeLo Green, available on YouTube (4:12), incorporates video about the life of Mary and Jesus and is also appropriate for day 1.
Video
Mary, Did You Know?
The song/video "Mary, Did You Know?" by Pentatonix, available on YouTube (3:24) with lyrics, is an a cappella rendition that is appropriate for day 1.
Video
Mary in 2 Minutes
The video "Mary in 2 Minutes," available on YouTube (2:43), addresses many important questions regarding Mary to support day 1 activities.
Video
The Day of the Dead
The video "The Day of the Dead," available on YouTube (3:49), offers a good overview of the Mexican celebration for the "Day of the Dead" activity on day 4.
Video
Christ Is Risen
The song/video "Christ Is Risen," by Matt Maher, available on YouTube (4:55) with lyrics, can be used for prayer on day 1.
Video
I Will Rise
The song/video "I Will Rise," by Chris Tomlin, available on YouTube (5:02) with lyrics, is good for prayer any day this week.
Video
How Can Jesus Be Both God and Human?
The video "How Can Jesus Be Both God and Human?" available on YouTube (2:42). This short video by Bishop Robert Barron explains the two natures of Jesus and some of the false teachings that the early Christian communities were battling. …
Video
Fully Human, Fully God
The video "Fully Human, Fully God," by The Skit Guys, available on YouTube (14:37), is used for the "True God and True Man" activity on day 3. Cue to 12:00 for the pertinent 2:37 segment.
Video
Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes
The video "Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes," available on YouTube (2:08), is used for the "Happy Are You!" activity on day 2. The first 1:15 is sufficient.
Video
Blest Are They—The Beatitudes
The song/video "Blest Are They—The Beatitudes," available on YouTube (8:19), is used for the Engage activity on day 2. The segment between 6:01 and 6:50 focuses on the lesson’s topic of persecution. The first 6:50 is worth showing for context …
Video
The Monastic Life, an Opportunity for the Church
The video "The Monastic Life, an Opportunity for the Church," available on YouTube (2:55), provides background material on monastic life for day 3.
Video
Vocation Testimonial
A simple search of "vocation stories" on YouTube provides many possibilities. Preselect two or three videos based on your time limitations, student familiarity with certain orders, and potential interest. "The Story of a Voca-tion," posted by OrderofPreachers (3:33), and "Vocation …
Video
Go Make a Difference
The song/video "Go Make a Difference Lyrics," by Steve Angrisano and Tom Tomaszek, available on YouTube (3:03), can serve as opening prayer any day.
Video
Hands and Feet
The song/video "Hands and Feet," by Audio Adrenaline, available on YouTube (4:04) with lyrics, enhances the Pray It! activity at the start of day 2.
Video
Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song)—The Nativity Story
The song/video "Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song)—The Nativity Story," by Amy Grant, available on YouTube (5:20), tells of the calling of Mary to bring Christ into the world. A video with scenes from the movie The Nativity Story illustrates the …
Video
Big House
The song/video "Big House," by Audio Adrenaline, available on YouTube (3:29) with lyrics, offers an alternate, more upbeat opening prayer for any day.
Video
One Spirit, One Church
The song/video "One Spirit, One Church," by Kevin Keil and Maryanne Quinlivan, available on YouTube (3:56), offers a good opening prayer for any day this week.
Video
1 Timothy 4:12— Seeds Family Worship—'Young'
The song/video "1 Timothy 4:12—Seeds Family Worship—‘Young,’" available on YouTube (2:05), is used for the "Be an Example" activity on day 4. The first 1:00 is sufficient.
Video
Heaven in the Real World
The song/video "Heaven in the Real World," by Steven Curtis Chapman, available on YouTube (4:20), is used for the "Gear Up" activity on day 3.
Video
Veggietales "Madame Blueberry"
The video "Veggie Tales Madame Blueberry," available on YouTube (1:27), is used for the Engage activity on day 2. Consider starting at the 0:24 mark.
Video
C4: Ignite Your Catholic Faith—What are the Marks of the Church?
The video "C4: Ignite Your Catholic Faith—What Are the Marks of the Church?" is available on YouTube (3:32), and is used for the "On Your Marks" activity on day 1.
Video
Run the Race
The song/video "Run the Race," by Paul Taylor Smith, available on YouTube (4:28), can be used for prayer any day and also complements the "Go the Distance" activity on day 4.
Video
Pope to Youth: 'Forget about false idols. Only God offers true hope'
The video "Pope to Youth: ‘Forget about false idols. Only God offers true hope,’" available on YouTube (3:10), is used for the "Think Positive!" activity on day 4. The pertinent quotes begin at the 0:56 mark.
Video
Trip Lee—Reflections on Romans 8
The video "Trip Lee—Reflections on Romans 8," available on YouTube (2:59), is used for the "Clear the Way" activity on day 4.
Video
Gospel Music by Shai Linne, 116 Clique (Romans)
The song/video "Gospel Music by Shai Linne, 116 Clique (Romans)," available on YouTube (4:55), is used for the “Clear the Way” activity on day 4. Though the video is 4:55, the song concludes at the 4:11 mark. It is helpful …
Video
Acts 15 The Council of Jerusalem
The video "Acts 15 The Council of Jerusalem," available on YouTube (3:52), is used for the "Paul Is Appalled" activity on day 2.
Video
Inculturation: The Case of Matteo Ricci
The Catholic News Service video "Inculturation: The Case of Matteo Ricci," available on YouTube (2:21), provides a clear, concise explanation of enculturation for the chapter project.
Video
World Peace Prayer
The song/video "World Peace Prayer," by Marty Haugen, available on YouTube (4:06), provides a hopeful litany that complements the "Opposites" activity on day 4.
Document
She Is Your Mother
As students complete this worksheet, they will explore what it means when we say that Mary is the Mother of God and the Mother of the Church.
Document
On Your Marks
This worksheet guides group members to work together as they identify the importance of the church being “One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic”.
Document
Cana Connections
Students match symbols from Jesus’ first miracle the wedding feast in Cana with their meaning and significance.
Document
Gospel Comparisons
On this worksheet, students read all four Gospel accounts of the resurrection before identifying similarities and differences between them.
Presentation
Chapter B The Bible: The Gospel of John
This PowerPoint accompanies Chapter B by giving an overview of the Gospel of John.
Video
Matthew 1:1–16: The Genealogy of Jesus Christ
The video "Matthew 1:1–16: The Genealogy of Jesus Christ," available on YouTube (2:19), is an animation of the lineage of Jesus that shows his connection to the tribe of Judah (see 0:18). It is used on day 3.
Document
Lesson Plan for Lesson 14
A lesson plan for lesson 14 in The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth: Catechist Guide.
Document
Lesson Plan for Lesson 13
A lesson plan for lesson 13 in The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth: Catechist Guide.
Document
From Fasting to Feasting
A short prayer that calls us to feast on kindness and compassion towards others.
Document
Correlation to Curriculum Framework
Correlation to Curriculum Framework Course IV: Jesus Christ’s Mission Continues in the Church from The Church: Christ in the World Today.
Document
Revelation, Sacred Scripture, and Tradition
Using the information in chapter 1 of The Catholic Connections Handbook, find the word or words described in the clues below. Fill in the blank spaces below each clue. Then, use the letters from the numbered spaces to fill in …
Video
Tradition – Who We Are
A brief explanation of tradition versus Tradition. A short video about how Catholic traditions that have been handed down help God reveal himself to us.
Document
Chapter 26 Summary: The Bible: Worshipping God
A summary of Chapter 26, The Bible: Worshipping God from the Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition.
Document
Chapter 25 Summary: Mary and the Saints
A summary of Chapter 25, Mary and the Saints from the Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition.
Document
Chapter 24 Summary: End Things: Heaven and Hell
A summary of Chapter 24, End Things: Heaven and Hell from the Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition.
Document
Chapter 23 Activity: How Much Do You Know about the Church?
The descriptions below relate to the Church, present and past. Write the word or name from the box that matches each description. Some words will be used more than once.
Document
Chapter 23 Summary: The Structure of the Church
A summary of Chapter 23, The Structure of the Church from the Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition.
Document
Chapter 22 Summary: The Mission of the Church
A summary of Chapter 22, The Mission of the Church from the Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition.
Document
Chapter 1 Summary: Revelation, Sacred Scripture, and Sacred Tradition
A summary of Chapter 1, Revelation, Sacred Scripture, and Sacred Tradition from the Catholic Connections Handbook for Middle Schoolers, Second Edition.
Video
Find the Source of Salvation
A personal story about the mission of the Church to share the good news of salvation with others.
Presentation
Chapter 14
A PowerPoint on The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition Chapter 14, The Organization of the Catholic Church.
Presentation
Chapter 13
A PowerPoint on The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition Chapter 13, The Mission of the Catholic Church.
Presentation
Chapter 4
A PowerPoint on The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition Chapter 4, Faith.
Presentation
Chapter 2
A PowerPoint on The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition Chapter 2, Knowing God: Reason and Revelation.
Presentation
Chapter 1
A PowerPoint on The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition Chapter 1, Being Catholic: The “Cliff Notes” View.
Document
Chapter 15 Activities
Activities for Chapter 15 The Last Things, including a core activity, core activity extension, and additional activities.
Document
Chapter 14 Activities
Activities for Chapter 14 The Organization of the Catholic Church, including a core activity, core activity extension, and additional activities.
Document
Chapter 13 Activities
Activities for Chapter 13 The Mission of the Catholic Church, including a core activity, core activity extension, and additional activities.
Document
Chapter 4 Activities
Activities for Chapter 4 Faith, including a core activity, core activity extension, and additional activities.
Document
Chapter 2 Activities
Activities for Chapter 2 Knowing God: Reason and Revelation, including a core activity, core activity extension, and additional activities.
Document
Chapter 1 Activities
Activities for Chapter 1: Being Catholic, including a core activity, core activity extension, and additional activities.
Document
Handout: The Precepts of the Church
The Precepts of the Church direct us to participate in the sacramental life of the Church so that we might be nourished for living a moral life. Following are the Precepts of the Church as designated by the Catholic bishops …
Document
Handout: The Holy Trinity
Descriptions of how each person of the trinity is present in the liturgy.
Document
Handout: Church Structure and Leadership
The structure of the Catholic Church can be pictured as a series of concentric rings, as shown in the following diagram. Each ring represents a special area of responsibility within the Church. As the circles get smaller, the roles are …
Document
Handout: A People a Body a Temple
Scripture verses about the Church as the people of God, the body of Christ, and temple of the Spirit.
Document
Handout: Scripture in the Mass
Find the biblical passages assigned to you, and then write on the line the words from the Mass that refer to or echo the passage.
Document
Handout: Scripture and Tradition
Connections between Scripture passages and Catholic Traditions.
Document
The Precepts of the Church
The Precepts of the Church are rooted in Scripture and Tradition. Do your best to locate Old and New Testament passages (in the Old Law and the New Law) that support each of the following precepts.
Document
Ritual Postures and Gestures
The different postures and gestures that take place during Mass.
Document
Lesson 15 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 15, The Last Things.
Document
We'd Like to Know: Possible Questions While Visiting Other Churches
In your visit to a different Christian Church, be prepared to ask the church’s representative some thoughtful questions about what they believe, their mission, and their worship. Here are some questions to start with. You might also think of other …
Document
Lesson 14 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 14, The Organization of The Catholic Church
Document
Lesson 13 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 13, The Mission of the Catholic Church.
Document
Lesson 12 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 12, The Holy Spirit.
Document
Lesson 11 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 11, Jesus’ Resurrection.
Document
Lesson 10 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 10, Jesus’ Death.
Document
Lesson 9 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 9, Jesus’ Message and Mission.
Document
Lesson 8 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 8, Jesus Christ: True God and True Man.
Document
Lesson 7 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 7, The Promise of a Messiah.
Document
Lesson 6 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 6, The Human Person.
Document
Lesson 5 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 5, God our Father.
Document
Lesson 3 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 3, The Bible’s Big Picture.
Document
Lesson 2 Summary
The lesson learning objectives and content summary for Lesson 2, Knowing God: Reason and Revelation.
Document
Marks of the Church
Write at least two examples of ways that the Church and you model the four Marks of the Church.
Document
Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 3
A rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 3 focusing on the Paschal Mystery, the Holy Spirit and the Church, and the mission of the Church. The options include exploring one important ministry in a diverse Church, creating …
Document
Final Performance Task Options
The final performance task options for Unit 3 focusing on the Paschal Mystery, the Holy Spirit and the Church, and the mission of the Church. The options include exploring one important ministry in a diverse Church, creating a poster comparing …
Document
A Preassessment
Answer each question by writing what you know for sure, what you think you know but are unsure about, and things related to the topic that you would like to explore.
Document
Vocabulary for Unit 3
A list of vocabulary words for Unit 3 that defines the terms bishop, Body of Christ, Catholic Church, charism, Communion of Saints, consecrated life, diocese, doctrine, Final Judgment, fruits of the Holy Spirit, Gifts of the Holy Spirit, laity, Marks …
Document
One of Us
Answer the following questions with your group that are related to the questions asked in the song “One of Us”. Your instructor will lead you through Part II. Use the following questions as prompts for taking notes in your notebook.
Document
Covenant Hope
All of the Scripture passages used in this exercise are taken from the list in your student book (pages 81–82). These Scripture passages concern covenants or promises that provide an image of hope in a future messiah. As you answer …
Document
Created in God’s Image
You will be guided through this handout, taking notes and answering questions as directed in your class.
Document
Faith: Some Important Connections
In silence, answer all but the last question by yourself. The last question will be answered in small groups.
Document
Rubric for Final Performance Tasks in Unit 2
Rubric for grading the final performance tasks for Unit 2 focusing on faith, the Trinity, the Kingdom of God, and creation in the image of God. The options include writing a personal creed, creating a Holy Trinity play, or exploring …
Document
Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2
Options of final performance tasks for Unit 2 focusing on faith, the Trinity, the Kingdom of God, and creation in the image of God. The options include writing a personal creed, creating a Holy Trinity play, or exploring three Kingdom …
Document
Vocabulary for Unit 2
A list of vocabulary words for Unit 2 including Annunciation, Blessed Trinity, church, Creation, creed, disciple, ecumenism, evangelist, faith, Gospel, Incarnation, Kingdom of God, Messiah, ministry, Original Sin, parable, Paschal Mystery, salvation, stewardship, and Theotokos.
Document
Aquinas’s Five Proofs for the Existence of God
The Summa Theologica is a famous work written by Saint Thomas Aquinas between AD 1265 and 1274. It is divided into three main parts and presents reasoning for almost all core Christian beliefs. The Summa Theologica is well known for …
Document
Core Beliefs Practices and Attitudes of the Catholic Faith
Each statement below is a core belief of the Catholic faith. Choose a symbol (“I get it,” “I’m unsure,” or “I don’t get it”) that best reflects your understanding of each belief. Then briefly explain what you might know about …
Document
Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 1
A rubric for the final performance tasks for Unit One about the basics of Catholicism, Scripture and Tradition, and Reason and Revelation. The options include reflecting on the Catholic faith in an essay, writing a personal story about your salvation …
Document
Final Performance Task Options for Unit 1
Options of final performance tasks for Unit One about the basics of Catholicism, Scripture and Tradition, and Reason and Revelation. The options include reflecting on the Catholic faith in an essay, writing a personal story about your salvation history, or …
Document
What Do I Know about the Catholic Faith
In the time allotted for this exercise, answer each question to the best of your knowledge. Each set of questions corresponds to the units you will study in this course and represents content you will cover in more detail in …
Document
Vocabulary for Unit 1
A list of vocabulary words for unit one, defines the terms Bible, biblical inspiration, canon, covenant, Deposit of Faith, Divine Revelation, Ecumenical Council, Gospel, inerrancy, Israelites, Law, Magisterium, natural revelation, New Testament, Old Testament, Parousia, reason, Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, …
Document
Letters in Paul's Day
An article that discusses the format of Paul’s letters and how they are different from letters today.
Document
The Patriarch Family Tree
A fill in the blank family tree of several generations of people in the Old Testament.
Document
Measuring Up David and Goliath
A worksheet where students fill in a chart using the story of David and Goliath as well as answering questions.
Document
All about Aaron
A matching worksheet about items and people that relate to Aaron in the Old Testament.
Document
Catholic / catholic
A worksheet that visually explores the differences between Catholic and catholic.
Video
30th Anniversary of John Paul II’s Assassination Attempt
A video explaining the assassination attempt on Pope Saint John Paul II's life.
Video
What About the Bad Popes?
A short video on how the Church is good, even though there have been bad popes.
Video
Leading with Humility: Pope Francis Blesses a Man with a Disability
A video clip of Pope Francis stopping to bless a man with a disability.
Video
Jesus and Mary Compared to Adam and Eve
A brief clip on the similarities and differences between Adam and Eve, and Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Video
Does Excommunication Condemn Someone to Hell?
A brief discussion on if excommunication condemns someone to Hell.
Video
Can Non-Catholic Christians Receive Communion in the Catholic Church?
A short discussion on if non-Catholic Christians can receive Communion in the Catholic Church.
Video
Did the Emperor Constantine Found the Catholic Church?
A short video segment on the early Church, and Emperor Constantine's role in it.
Document
Researching the Role of the Magisterium
Several strips of paper that may come in handy when researching the role of the Magisterium.
Document
Where Does the Church Say…?
A chart outlining different types of Church documents, the author and audience of each particular document, and what’s in each document.
Document
Who? What? When? Where? How? in the Local Diocese
An activity where students are asked to locate information about their local diocese.
Document
My Charisms
A worksheet where students are asked about ordinary charisms and religious charisms.
Document
Gifts of Holy Spirit
A worksheet where students are asked to explain each of the seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit and then compose a short essay on instances where the gifts helped them out in difficult situations.
Document
Terms Related to the Church
A worksheet where students are asked to define several vocabulary terms related to the Church and write a short essay on which term means the most to them.
Document
Marks of the Church
A chart that students are asked to fill in with at least two examples of ways the Church models the four marks of the Church, and at least two examples of ways they model the four marks of the Church.
Document
Five Models of the Church
An activity where students are given a chart containing the meanings, strengths, and limitations of each of the five models of the Church and asked to answer related questions.
Document
Events at the Second Vatican Council
An article on the events that took place at the Second Vatican Council.
Document
The Two Pentecosts
A chart used to draw parallels between the feasts of Shavuot and Christian Pentecost.
Video
Mysteries: Celibacy
A documentary discussing the historical/theological precedents for celibacy.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: SEMINARY
Explains how priests were formed in the early stages of Christianity.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: APOCALYPSE
An explanation of the apocalypse as discussed in the book of Revelation.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: Jesus' Arrest & Trial
A documentary explaining the events surrounding Jesus' arrest and trial.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: The Early Evangelists
A documentary discussing the early church, its members, and the means by which it expanded. Note: Viewing begins at 1:10.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: Women in the Church
A documentary discussing the integral and often contentious role of women, past and present, in the Catholic Church. Note: Viewing begins at 1:01.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: The Crusades
A documentary chronicling the events of the Crusades and their lasting impact.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: Christianity and Science
A cinematographically excellent documentary explaining in colloquial and relatable language the unexpectedly amicable relationship between science and Christianity.
Video
Mysteries of the Church: Christian Denominations
A cinematographically excellent documentary explaining in colloquial and relatable language the history of the development of many Christian denominations.
Presentation
Bible Covenants - PowerPoint
This PowerPoint is part of the Living in Christ Series. It explains the difference between covenant and contract, reviews the 5 major covenants in the Old Testament, and discusses the New Covenant in Christ.
Document
Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2
This rubric is part of the Living in Christ Series. It serves as a guide for assessing students on projects that communicate key ideas about the Catholic Church, especially its scriptural basis and origin.
Document
Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2
This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers ideas for assessing students who have recently learned about the Church, especially the birth of the Church at Pentecost.
Link
The List of Popes
https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/12272b.htm
A full list of all of the Popes with links to information about each Pope.
Document
Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 5
This rubric is part of the Living in Christ Series. It serves as a guide for assessing students on projects covering the main ideas of the Paschal Mystery, especially the institution of the Church and the Sacraments.
Document
Final Performance Task Options for Unit 5
This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who have recently studied the Paschal Mystery, especially the birth of the Church at Pentecost, the descent of the Holy Spirit, and the …
Document
Political and Religious Structure in Jesus' Time
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an extensive overview of the political and religious structures and influences at work in Jesus' time.
Presentation
Introduction to Salvation History - PowerPoint
This PowerPoint presentation is part of the Living in Christ Series. It explores salvation history, the transmission of Divine Revelation, and the role of the Magisterium.
Presentation
The Acts of the Apostles and Saint Paul - PowerPoint
This PowerPoint is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers an overview of the Acts of the Apostles and the Pauline and non-Pauline letters of Saint Paul in the New Testament.
Presentation
How the Bible Came To Be - PowerPoint
This PowerPoint is part of the Living in Christ Series. It introduces the development of the New Testament canon from Oral Tradition through translation.
Document
The Apostles
This article is part of the Living in Christ Series. It discusses the Apostles and followers of Jesus who are known in Scripture, including Peter and Mary Magdalene, among others.
Video
Why is the Mass Changing?
The Mass Is Changing...How? Why? And what does it all mean for you? Catholic Answers Senior Apologist Jimmy Akin explains why the Church has decided to issue a new translation of the Roman Missal.
Video
Early Church Fathers
This video presents an explanation of who the Early Church Fathers were and what they did for the Church.
Article
Who Does the Movie Say Killed Jesus?
Much of the controversy about The Passion of the Christ centers around one question: Who killed Jesus? The Anti-Defamation League feels the movie lays the blame at the feet of the Jews. Mel Gibson, the movie's director, producer and cowriter, …
Article
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pope
What is the pope? The pope is the bishop of the Church of Rome, Italy. Because of the importance of Rome, Tradition recognizes the pope as the supreme pastor of all Christians. Why is the Church of Rome so important? …
Article
Until a "lack of discretion" do us part
Ever since the church got involved in the wedding ceremony, relatively late in Christian history, it has stood by its main belief about a marriage. It’s the consent of the couple that binds. SEVENTH IN A 10-PART SERIES ON CHURCH …
Article
Central Characteristics of Roman Catholicism
Catholicism is a remarkably rich religion, characterized by a complex tapestry of beliefs, practices, values, rituals, traditions, and more. When viewed "from the outside"--that is, by those who do not share its communal life--Catholicism is probably most frequently identified by …
Article
In the Name of the Father
Making the sign of the cross is a gesture that says, in shorthand, that a person is a Catholic. It appears as an icon in popular culture, and as a gesture it is scattered throughout film history, for example: movie …
Article
Fighting Catholic Amnesia
I was a high school junior before I learned that the Catholic faith was something more than Mass, folk songs and the Bible. Father Corry turned me on to Church history in his religion class. He showed me how our …
Article
The Church and the Bible: A New Understanding
The Catholic Church's attitude toward biblical study has undergone a sea of change in recent times. A world-renowned Scripture scholar explains why and how. Very often when older Catholics hear at Mass a presentation about the Bible they are puzzled. …
Article
Saint Jerome: The Perils of a Bible Translator
“WHAT IS THE BEST TRANSLATION OF THE BIBLE?” This is the question that people who teach biblical studies hear more than any other. A bewildering abundance of alternatives is available to those who want to begin reading the Bible. This …
Article
Six Ways to be Truly Catholic
I always thought that I would have made a great archbishop in Salzburg during the time of Mozart. But instead I'm the archbishop of Milwaukee in the time of rock 'n' roll. That's the way life turns out. We live …
Article
The Church
Central Characteristics of Roman Catholicism Catholicism is a remarkably rich religion, characterized by a complex tapestry of beliefs, practices, values, rituals, traditions, and more. When viewed “from the outside”—that is, by those who do not share its communal life—Catholicism is …
Article
A Christmas Legend: The Birth of Jesus and Gift Giving
Session Overview: This 2-hour session is designed to use role-playing skills for a presentation to an audience. Scripture: This session is based on Luke 2:1-20. Read the Scripture passage to the young people after the role-play, "Christmas Legend," has been …
Article
Using Literature in Theology Classes
Editor's note: The author of our feature article, Kathleen Hodapp, was one of the participants in last summer's workshop "The Catholic High School As Faith Community," held here in Winona, Minnesota, as well as on the East Coast and the …
Article
The Quincentenary
As we are all aware, 1992 marks the quincentenary of Christopher Columbus's landing in the West Indies–thus, the "discovery" of America. For religious educators, this anniversary offers an opportunity to examine the injustices done to Native Americans by the colonizers …
Article
Teaching Church History
In teaching church history, I have used, with some degree of success, the approach of showing links between the events and issues of the past and the concerns the church is facing today and will be facing in the future. …
Article
Expect Much, Praise Much, Be Present to Them
Course materials, such as the high school religion textbooks and teacher's manuals published by Saint Mary's Press, are a significant ingredient in the education of our young people. But we all know that the most important factor in a student's …
Article
Curriculum Offerings of Theology Departments
For a couple of years, Saint Mary’s Press sponsored a listserv discussion group online. Discussions on a variety of topics were pursued via e-mail. In this section of the web site, I summarize some of the highlights from these old …
