November 2011

We Remember and We Believe!

My husband’s mother passed away several years ago and was never able to meet our children. This fact doesn’t seem to bother our youngest child one bit. Even though she is still very young, Amelia points to Grandma Beth in pictures as if she’s known her all of her life. Amelia was born with Grandma Beth’s long fingers and toes and she also shares her grandmother’s spirit. We are convinced that Amelia does know Grandma Beth; she just met her in a different place and time.

In November the Church remembers those who have gone before us and we celebrate because we are all still a part of the Body of Christ – even death cannot break that bond. All believers are part of the Communion of Saints and this month we honor the many saints who hold a special place in our faith.

E-mail Heidi

May God bless your family with health, happiness and holiness!

--Heidi Busse and the OSV staff
Share your suggestions and questions

This month on Teaching Catholic Kids

New feature! November at a Glance (PDF download)

Activity One: (Grades K-5): All Saints Day (PDF)

Activity Two (Grade 6 and up): All Souls Day (PDF)

Questions:

We, as the Body of Christ are connected forever, even after death. The "Communion of Saints" is comprised of all who have gone before us and those of us still on earth. Do you feel connected to any friends or family members who have died and now with Jesus?
Do you feel comfortable praying to them and asking them for guidance? Why or why not?

Lifelong Catechesis Corner:
Matthew 25: 31-46: When did you see the hungry?
On the third Sunday of November, Jesus reminds us that we will be judged not by how many earthy goods we have collected or what we have consumed, but by how we have treated the poor and disadvantaged people among us. At your Thanksgiving gathering this year, collect canned goods or boxed potatos to be donated to a local food shelf. Or collect scarves and mittens and warm coats and blankets for a local shelter. Jesus says, "Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me." Activities online at Lifelong Catechesis page.

Catholic Stewardship for Kids:

Make Paper Thanksgiving Chains -- Make a list of things with the children that they are thankful for (remember to include gifts and talents, people and God's love!) Write these on strips of orange and yellow paper and link them together to make a paper chain. Hang the chain around your dining room or use as a table runner on Thanksgiving day.

Soul Food for Teachers: Thanksgiving Prayer

Catechist Know-How: Saints Among Us from Mary Lou Rosien

Prayer

Dear Lord,
We remember our loved ones,
family and friends who have died
and joined you in heaven.
We are grateful for the joy and love
these special people brought to our lives.
With faith and hope we pray that our loved ones
are at peace and enjoying the eternal happiness
in your loving care.
Amen.

Also on www.TeachingCatholicKids.com: