Teaching Catholic Kids August 2009

Last days of summer

I always think that the Summer will last longer than it does. These were the three statements I made in early June.

• “There will be time to play golf.”
• “I will faithfully remind my son to practice his math sheets daily before school begins.”
• “I will finish all of my household projects.”

Well, it’s August and I’ve played golf once, my son has done some of his math sheets, and I still haven’t completed half of my projects. How about you?

This time of year, I find that it is important to think of what Jesus said to his friends Mary and Martha.

But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10: 40-42)

Jesus asks that we slow down and enjoy the moment. I think we need to keep that on the top of our to do lists all year long.

Enjoy August with your family!

Dave

A new day in catechesis!

For more information about Our Sunday Visitor’s recent acquisition of Harcourt Religion Publishers, visit www.newdayincatechesis.com.

This month on TCK

Activity One: (Grades K-5): Here are three great websites to help in planning for the coming school year.

1.  Weekly Gospel Activities for Children»
2. Online Catholic Games» 
3. Games and Activities related to Catholic Social Teaching»

Activity Two (Grade 6 and up):   Here are three sites for the middle/high school level.

1. Official Videos from the Pope»
2. Resources to incorporate Popular Music in the Classroom»
3. Patron Saint Index (good for Confirmation name searches)»

What’s your favorite site? Email Dave at ddziena@osv.com.

Teacher Pattern: Jesus and the Children (PDF file)»

Soul Food for Teachers: Try This! from OSV's Grace In Action--Pray with St. Ignatius of Loyola»

Catechist Know-How: From Mary Lou Rosien, "Spiritual Checkup"»

Ideas from the Field

A response to last month’s question: “What resource would you love to have when working with children?”

"My son has played the "Gospel Champions" computer games, which involves the player in several Bible stories.  He just turned six and when he hears one of the readings at Mass that he's played on the video game, he remembers the story and characters (submitted by John Elfering). Visit Third Day Games»

Please send your ideas and comments to me: ddziena@osv.com.

Product recommendations

Catechists Companion: Tips for New Catechists by Leisa Anslinger. $2.95 for one or available in a package of 10 (S&H extra). More info here»

CPKH: Building Stronger Familes by Eileen Murphy. $2.95 for one or available in a package of 10 (S&H extra). More info here»

Take Out: Family Faith on the Go mini-magazine More info here»

Keep up with TCK!

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Don't forget to go to our Catholic Links page to help you with all things Catholic! Just click here for Catholic Links»

To link to Teaching Catholic Kids, use: www.teachingcatholickids.com.

For past months of Teaching Catholic Kids, click here»

Email Dave Dziena, TCK editor: ddziena@osv.com.

Prayer

Holy Mary, on this day of your assumption into heaven, we honor your life as the chosen Mother of Jesus. We remember your dedication to God and the joy and heartache you had in your life as you followed God’s plan for you. Today we pray for the love you had for God, the hope you had in Jesus, and the joy you found in your heart. Pray for us as we grow in love, hope, and joy. Amen. (from The Big Book of Catholic Customs and Traditions, OSV)