August 2012

Welcome the Year of Faith!

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Faith is an integral part of our lives; it is interwoven into everything we do. In light of this, Pope Benedict XVI has proclaimed a Year of Faith as a way to nourish and deepen our faith in God and the Church. From October 11, 2012 to November 24, 2013 we are called to prayer, study, outreach and evangelization so that we might live out the call of discipleship to be “joyful witnesses to Christ.” This month, Teaching Catholic Kids is dedicated to help you learn about and gather resources, and activities to help catechize the Year of Faith. Please let me know if you have questions or need more ideas. Oh and be sure to “like” Teaching Catholic Kids on Facebook – a great place to share and connect.

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--Heidi Busse and the OSV staff
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This month on Teaching Catholic Kids

Fun feature! August at a Glance (PDF)

Activity One: (Grades K-5): Marian Panel Art (PDF)

Throughout the Year of Faith, we are called to deepen our understanding of the teachings of the Church. The Assumption of Mary is an ancient feast day that celebrates Mary’s ascension into heaven – body and soul. The belief of people ascending into heaven is part of both Jewish and Christian tradition. Pope Pius XII proclaimed the Assumption of Mary as official Church doctrine in 1915.
It is a Holy Day of Obligation.

Activity Two (Grade 6 and up): Feast of the Transfiguration

Lifelong Catechesis Corner:

Jesus’ divinity is clearly implied in the Gospel of John. (John 6:60-69). Jesus has “the words of eternal life;” He is the messiah and savior of the world. Live out this Year of Faith by choosing to make Jesus the center of your life, just as the apostles did.

Activities online at the Lifelong Catechesis page.

Soul Food for Teachers: What does it mean to be holy?

Catholic Stewardship for Kids: One of the best ways to be a witness of our faith in Jesus is through our actions. This month, help a friend or family who needs back-to-school supplies by donating an extra backpack, pencil box or calculator. When we share our resources, even in small ways, we reflect Christ’s call to “love our neighbor.”

Catechist Know-How: Space for Grace from Mary Lou Rosien

Prayer:

Increase our faith! (Luke 17:5)
Holy God,
We thank you for the gracious gift of faith.
With the apostles before us, we ask that you
Open our hearts to the power of your Word
and increase our faith
that we may be bold followers
and joyful witnesses
to the message and mission
of your Son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Amen.

To purchase copies of OSV’s Year of Faith prayer card and other Year of Faith resources, call 1-800-348-2440 x 2173.

Also on www.TeachingCatholicKids.com: