June 2011

The Celebration of Pentecost

The Easter season ends with the celebration of Pentecost. Pentecost completed the work of Christ's Passover and opened up a new era of mission. Once the followers of Jesus had received the Holy Spirit, they became fearless in proclaiming the gospel. The story of the first Pentecost shows how people from many different places who spoke various languages were brought together to form a community.

Pentecost is also an occasion for praising the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity. The Sequence for Pentecost, a hymn that is sung in the liturgy before the Gospel, is full of such praises. The Holy Spirit is called "comforter," "welcome guest," "sweet refreshment," and "solace." Pentecost is a time to invite him into our lives today.

Have a great summer, and God bless!

--Dave and the OSV staff
(Email me at ddziena@osv.com to share your suggestions and questions.)

This month on Teaching Catholic Kids

Activity One: (Grades K-5): The Power of the Holy Spirit

Activity Two (Grade 6 and up): 'How to be Christian in the digital world'

Discussion Questions: What are your thoughts on the statistics presented? What surprises you the most?
Take Action: Look at one authentically Catholic site this month (ask your parent's permission first). Such sites include: vatican.va/video/ (for videos from the Vatican) or usccb.org/nab (to see the daily readings).

Teacher Pattern: Setting The Family Table

Lifelong Catechesis Corner: Family Activity:
Pentecost Family Celebration and Activity

Catholic Stewardship for Kids:

What strategy do you use to keep your heart open to the Holy Spirit, who speaks in your heart at the right moment, guiding and forming your thoughts and actions?
For more ideas, visit the OSV Lifelong Catechesis site»

Soul Food for Teachers: Read today's meditation from My Daily Visitor.

Catechist Know-How: Forgiveness, from Mary Lou Rosien

Prayer

Leader: Light and peace in Jesus Christ our Lord, Alleluia.
All: Thanks be to God, Alleluia.
Leader: Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
All: And kindle in them the fire of your love.

Also on www.TeachingCatholicKids.com: