Lessons and Activities

It's fun to imagine ourselves in some of the Scripture stories we hear. Put yourself into each of these short stories, then answer the questions about where you are and what is happening.

Catechists aren’t liturgists! Yet, the National Directory for Catechesis tells us that catechists are called to promote “an active, conscious genuine participation in the liturgy of the Church, not merely by explaining the meaning of the ceremonies, but also by forming the minds of the faithful for prayer…” (n. 20, #2).

The Church has a timeless treasure—the Bible. You can open the door of faith by exploring this treasure with your students.

The Gospel for the First Sunday of Lent (Luke 4:1-13) tells us that Jesus went into the desert for 40 days. While there, he paid less attention to his physical life and more to his spiritual life by fasting and praying. But it wasn't easy. All the while, the devil tempted him. Do similar things happen to you today? Let's see.

Thomas of Villanova is known as the Father of the Poor. He cared about people who were sick, homeless, and living in poverty. He said, “If you want God to hear your prayers, hear the voice of the poor.” He lived his life with love for others as Jesus teaches us.

This Complete-A-Project Bible Search activity is for teacher and students (grades 4-6) working together. This Bible Search is based on the Gospel for the Baptism of the Lord (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22).

Genoveva was a person of great faith and courage. She wanted to join the Carmelite Order but was not accepted due to her health. She was very disappointed, but she did not give up. She knew that God has a purpose for each of our lives.

If you'd like a patron saint for when you're slacking off, look no further than the newly canonized Franciscan sister of Syracuse, New York: St. Marianne Cope (1838-1918; canonized October 21, 2012; feast day, January 23). She is famous for nursing lepers in Hawaii after St. Damien caught the disease, but there's much more. Sister Marianne's stamina and dedication were remarkable. And she was a catechist--one who believed that the gospel in action speaks louder than words.

The start of a new year is often compared to the beginning of a journey--usually emotional or spiritual. This new year is special, as it includes the Church's celebration of the Year of Faith.

Master catechists respond to questions from readers.