grades k, 1 unit 1: we walk in the footsteps of jesus

Teaching Guide

ContentsFor Catechists and Teachers page 2

Unit 1: Scope and Sequence pages 2–3

Lesson Plan, September 23 • 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time pages 4–7

Lesson Plan, September 30 • 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time pages 8–11

Lesson Plan, October 7 • 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time pages 12–15




Lesson Plan, November 4 • 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time pages 28–31

Lesson Plan, November 11 • 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time pages 32–35

2018–2019 Scope and Sequence page 36

25th–32nd Sundays in Ordinary TimeSeptember 23–November 11, 2018

Volume 33, Number 1

Grades K, 1

Unit 1: We Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus

The NEW

Gospel W

eeklies

Guides available inSpanish and English atgospelweeklies.com

Unit1

P F L A U M G O S P E L W E E K L I E S F a i t h F o r m a t i o n P r o g r a m

For Catechists and Teachers

Date/Sunday Sunday Gospels CreedSacraments

& Liturgy Life in Christ Christian Prayer

September 23, 2018 25th Sunday Ordinary

Mark 9:30–37 The Greatest Serve Others

We are Jesus’ followers (#1692) We celebrate the Eucharist Being a follower of Jesus Singing our prayer


Mark 9:38–43, 45, 47–48 Jesus Gathers a Community

The Church is catholic, sent out to all peoples (#868)

Gathering to praise God at Sunday Eucharist

Going to Mass; learning the names of things in church

Prayer of praise; steps of the Mass

October 7, 2018 27th Sunday Ordinary

Mark 10:2–16 Jesus Welcomes Families

God creates us for relationships (#383)

Belonging to Jesus’ family Following Jesus as a family The Sign of the Cross


Mark 10:17–30 Jesus and the Rich Man

Jesus values the commandments (#2052–2053, 2075)

Christian community Sharing with others Prayer about sharing


Mark 10:35–45 Jesus Calls Us to Serve Others

Jesus gives himself for us (#620) The Church is a servant Church Following Jesus by helping others

Prayer about helping


Mark 10:46–52 Jesus Cures a Blind Man

Jesus’ miracles show God’s love for us (#561)

Creed Appreciating Creation and our senses; Saint Francis of Assisi

Prayer of thanksgiving

November 4, 2018 31st Sunday Ordinary

Mark 12:28b–34 The Great Commandment

Jesus’ Great Commandment (#2055) Praying the Lord’s Prayer at the Eucharist

Saint Katharine Drexel; loving God and neighbor

The Lord’s Prayer

November 11, 2018 32nd Sunday Ordinary

Mark 12:38–44 The Widow’s Mite

The whole of Christ’s life teaches (#561)

Offering gifts at the Eucharist Sharing with others Psalm 148

TG1-2 Imprimatur: +Most Reverend Robert J. McManus, S.T.D., Bishop of Worcester, April 30, 2018.PROMISE Teaching Guide (supplement to Pflaum Gospel Weeklies) copyright © 2018 by Pflaum Publishing Group, a division of Bayard, Inc., sponsored by the Augustinians of the Assumption. Editorial Director: David Dziena, Editor: Joan McKamey, Designer: Mary Jean Jones. Page TG1-2 art: © Bayard, Inc. – Illustration: Jim Burrows. Printed in the USA. Material in this supplement may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form or format without special permission from the publisher.

Meeting Jesus in the GospelsWelcome to a new year of Promise, the K–1 edition of the Pflaum Gospel Weeklies, a liturgy-based approach to catechesis. Each Promise lesson is drawn from a theme in the Sunday Gospel.

The young children you teach will meet Jesus in the Gospel. When they attend Sunday Mass with their families, the Gospel story will be familiar to them, one they already feel is their own. The stories and activities in each weekly lesson help the children understand how the Gospel message relates to their own lives.

In On the Call to Holiness in Today’s World, Pope Francis writes: “The prayerful reading of God’s word…enables us to pause and listen to the voice of the Master” (156). “Meeting Jesus in the Scriptures leads us to the Eucharist, where the written word attains its greatest efficacy, for there the living Word is truly present” (157).

The children will meet Jesus in his work of healing, teaching, and telling everyone about God’s love. They will recognize their place in the worshiping community and understand how, even as young children, they can follow Jesus’ way.

Each week, Promise engages children in a process that moves from story to Gospel to response. The children hear Jesus speaking and see him acting in the Gospel. The stories and activities draw on the children’s experiences to prepare them to both hear Jesus’ simple message and put his teaching into action.

In this first unit, the children will celebrate the many communities to which they belong—families, school or day care, Church, neighborhood, friends. They learn about saints and practice different ways to respond to God in prayer.

The children will celebrate that they are basically good and that all God has created is good. When children appreciate God’s gifts and are happy with themselves and others, they live the Gospels and are living examples of God’s presence in the world.

The stories and activities in this unit will help the children follow the teachings of Jesus. They will learn these lessons:

Liturgy-Based Catechesis

Overview of Unit 1

UNIT 1 OVERVIEW: We Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus

TG1-3

Date/Sunday Sunday Gospels CreedSacraments

& Liturgy Life in Christ Christian Prayer



We are Jesus’ followers (#1692) We celebrate the Eucharist Being a follower of Jesus Singing our prayer










Belonging to Jesus’ family Following Jesus as a family The Sign of the Cross




Christian community Sharing with others Prayer about sharing



Jesus gives himself for us (#620) The Church is a servant Church Following Jesus by helping others



Mark 10:46–52 Jesus Cures a Blind Man


Creed Appreciating Creation and our senses; Saint Francis of Assisi



Mark 12:28b–34 The Great Commandment

Jesus’ Great Commandment (#2055) Praying the Lord’s Prayer at the Eucharist


The Lord’s Prayer




Offering gifts at the Eucharist Sharing with others Psalm 148

Bayard supports Pope Francis’s call to care for our common home. When completed, please recycle this teaching guide properly. Thank you.

All numbers in parentheses refer to sections in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Music CDs The Promise/Good News music two-CD set contains songs by John Burland that correlate to the Liturgical Year. The songs are easy to learn through listening and singing along. Available at gospelweeklies.com or for download at giamusic.com/PGW.

Let’s Sing! Let’s Pray! Teaching Catholic Prayer to Children Through Song is a collection of new settings for Catholic prayers. Available at gospelweeklies.com.

New Music DVD!Let’s Gather! Let’s Sing! Growing in Faith Through Song & Movement contains 25 songs by educator/composer John Burland. This DVD demonstrates the movements to all 25 songs and includes the words displayed in karaoke style.

●● We learn to follow Jesus.●● We belong to God’s family.●● Jesus loves children and families.●● Jesus asks us to share.●● Those who serve are important.●● We can see God’s goodness.●● I can love.●● I can give.

Make every effort to involve parents in their children’s exploration of the mysteries of our Christian faith. Each week, Promise provides Family Corner, a feature that suggests activities parents can do with their children to extend the Promise lesson.

For free at-home activities, visitgospelweeklies.com/seasonal

Go to GospelWeeklies.comGo online to find helpful information to enhance your presentation of the Pflaum Gospel Weeklies in the classroom and support materials for parents. You will find●●GROW Newsletter and Blog – Subscribe to our GROW blog for

weekly reflections on Sunday’s Gospel, activities, a Calendar of Saints and Feasts, and Video Links that relate to Sunday’s Gospel. Lesson Updates provide corrections or helpful additions to printed materials.

●●Seasonal Activities and Catholic Resources – Reproducible seasonal activities can be used in a classroom or at home.

●●Lesson Assessments – We offer printable pre-tests, lesson review templates, and lesson, unit, and year-end assessments.

●●User’s Guide – Learn about Teaching Guide features and structure and flow of the Gospel Weeklies lesson plans.

●●Teaching Companion to What the Church Believes and Teaches●●Early Start Lessons – Find three introductory lessons online. Three

additional Early Start lessons are in the Promise Activity Book.●●Family Catechesis Resources

The Gospel at Home is a weekly guide for parents with a Gospel summary, discussion starters, and activities in English and Spanish.The Gospel for All Ages includes gathering rituals, discussion questions, large-group sessions—all based on the Gospel Weeklies lessons. Includes a guide for planning four major seasonal events.

Additional Resources ● Lesson Assessment (gospelweeklies.com/assessments)● Seasonal Resources (gospelweeklies.com/seasonal)● Video Links: Go to gospelweeklies.com/blog to subscribe to GROW.● Find resources at Catholictv.org/masses/Catholictv-mass to

support or enhance your lessons.

TG1-4 For monthly gatherings, family catechesis, RCIA, and summer intensive pacing plans, visit gospelweeklies.com/pacingplans

September 23, 2018 • 25th Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: Wisdom 2:12, 17–20;

James 3:16—4:3; Mark 9:30–37

For Catechists and Teachers Scripture BackgroundIn Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus tells his friends that he will have to suffer and die. He also tells them the greatest among them are those who serve and welcome children.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrineJesus’ teaching that the greatest is the one who serves and welcomes children is good news for little people. Promise emphasizes that part of the Sunday Gospel.

“With God’s grace, catechesis…continually unfolds the mystery of Christ until the believer willingly becomes his disciple” (National Directory for Catechesis, 19).

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesExplain to parents that Promise provides stories and activities that will invite the children to connect their lives with Jesus’ story and apply the Sunday Gospel message. Encourage parents to do the Family Corner activities and prayer together each week.

The Fifth National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry (vencuentro.org) is an ecclesial gathering of ministry leaders and delegates from across the U.S., September 20–23 in Grapevine, Texas. Please pray for the success of efforts to develop ministries among Hispanics/Latinos.

Single-Session Lesson Pacing GuidesNote: These pacing guides are suggestions for how to present the lesson. Please adapt the lesson to suit your needs.

60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “Yes, Lord, I Believe” (CD-2, #26)●● Activity ● Who are Jesus’ followers? (page 3)●● Cover Activity ● We learn to follow Jesus. (page 1)●● Activity ● Name Game

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes little children.

Distribute the children’s What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks. Turn to pages 4–5.

●● Activity ● We learn about Jesus together. (page 2)●● Activity ● We celebrate the Eucharist together. (page 4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “Come and Follow Me” (CD-2, #14)

Take-Home ●● Promise Activity Book, Activity #1●● Remind the children to share their lesson with their families and

to do the Family Corner activities and prayer on page 2 together.

90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “Yes, Lord, I Believe” (CD-2, #26)●● Activity ● Who are Jesus’ followers? (page 3)●● Cover Activity ● We learn to follow Jesus. (page 1)●● Activity ● Name Game

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes little children.●● Activity ● Creative Drama

Distribute the children’s What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks. Turn to pages 4–5.

●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #1

●● Activity ● We learn about Jesus together. (page 2)●● Activity ● We celebrate the Eucharist together. (page 4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “Come and Follow Me” (CD-2, #14)

Take-Home Remind the children to share their lesson with their families and to do the Family Corner activities and prayer on page 2 together.

Share Experiences (25—30 minutes)

Discover Gospel and Doctrine (20—25 minutes)

Live the Gospel (15–20 minutes)

Share Experiences (25–30 minutes)

Discover Gospel and Doctrine (40–45 minutes)


Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 9/23●● Catechism handbook, pages 4–5●● CD player and Promise/Good News CD-2●● name tags, ball, pencils, crayons●● scissors, glue or tape●● large paper hearts (one per child)

Suggested Music●● “Yes, Lord, I Believe” (CD-2, #26)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● “Come and Follow Me” (CD-2, #14)

Lesson Resources●● Promise Activity Book, Activity #1●● Weekly Review Template (gospelweeklies.

com/catechists-teachers)●● Video Links: Go to gospelweeklies.com/blog

to subscribe to GROW.

September 23, 2018 25th Sunday in Ordinary TimeVolume 33, Number 1

We learn to follow Jesus.

Follow the path to find the people who teach about Jesus.


The NEW

Gospel W

eeklies

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Unit 1: We Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus ● TG1-5

Lesson Theme: We learn to follow Jesus.

Five-Day Lesson Pacing GuideNote: This pacing guide suggests how to present the lesson over five days. Please adapt the lesson to suit your needs.

Day 1

●● Activity ● Gathering●● Gathering Song ● “Yes, Lord, I Believe” (CD-2, #26)●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-6)●● Activity ● Who are Jesus’ followers? (page 3)●● Cover Activity ● We learn to follow Jesus. (page 1)●● Activity ● Name Game●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for people who teach us

about Jesus. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for people who teach us about Jesus. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes little children.●● Activity ● Creative Drama●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for welcoming and loving

people of all ages. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for welcoming and

loving people of all ages. Amen. (Repeat.)

Distribute the students’ What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks. Turn to pages 4–5.

●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #1●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, please bless and guide our Church.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, please bless and guide our Church. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● We learn about Jesus together. (page 2)●● Activity ● We celebrate the Eucharist together. (page 4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to be welcoming and kind to

others. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to be welcoming and kind

to others. Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer (see page TG1-7)●● Closing Song ● “Come and Follow Me” (CD-2, #14)

Friday Take-Home Remind the students to share their lesson with their families and to do the Family Corner activities and prayer on page 2 together.

Share Experiences

Discover Gospel and Doctrine

Live the Gospel

Curriculum Connections●● Sci: Explain to the students that much like Jesus’ friends

expected the best to be first, there are rules that govern how the universe works. Have the students create an investigation to compare the effects of different strengths or pushes/pulls on the motion of an object. (K-PS2-1)

●● Tech: Lead a class discussion on friendship and qualities of friendship. Break into pairs to create a flyer displaying what they believe to be the most important characteristics of friendship. (ISTE2016.6a, ISTE2016.6d)

Extending the Lesson

Catholic Identity Project of the Week In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus invites us to receive children in his name. In the spirit of becoming servants to each other, invite older children to read a book to your children. The older children can read a teacher-selected book or be invited to share their favorite children’s book with a small group.

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● September 23: Saint Pio of Pietrelcina –

Also known as Padre Pio, this 20th-century Capuchin friar was the first priest in Catholic history known to have the stigmata—the five wounds Christ endured at his Crucifixion. He built hospitals for people suffering in body and soul. Pray: Loving God, be near to all those who hurt, especially those who suffer alone.

●● September 26: Saints Cosmas and Damian (US; in Canada, Sept. 25) – Brothers and physicians from Arabia, Cosmas and Damian would not accept payment for treating patients. They refused to deny their Christian faith and endured torture with water, fire, air, and the cross before they were beheaded. Cosmas and Damian are patrons of physicians and pharmacists.

Teaching This Week’s Lesson

TG1-6

Objectives ● The children will:●● Play a recognition game to learn about each other.●● Recognize all the ways they have learned about Jesus.

Gathering Use name tags to take attendance. Put them on a bulletin board or table. As the children arrive, they pick up their name tag and put it on. Greet each child by name.

Gather in a prayer circle. Play and sing “Yes, Lord, I Believe” (CD-2, #26).

Gathering Prayer Direct the children to stand quietly while you pray: “Loving God, thank you for bringing us all together at this time and in this place. We want to learn about Jesus and how we can be his followers. We will try to be kind and loving to each other because we are all your children.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Activity ● Who are Jesus’ followers? (page 3) Distribute Promise and pencils or crayons. Direct them to turn to page 3. Read the title. Together you will see if the followers of Jesus in this Promise group are like any of the children pictured. Ask: Who has brown eyes? Have the children raise their hands. Write in the initials of one child under that picture. Move on to the baby being baptized. Ask: Who has been baptized? Write the initials of one child under that photo. Continue with the rest of the photos. If your class is larger than nine students, put two or three names under a photo as you go along.

Cover Activity ● We learn to follow Jesus. (page 1) Have the children sit in a story circle. Invite them to look at the cover illustration. Ask: What do you see? Let each child tell you one thing. Jesus is at the lower right. A mother brings her children to meet Jesus. Saint Francis of Assisi (feast day: October 4) is the man with the birds. Above him is Saint Juan Diego, the Native Mexican who saw Our Lady of Guadalupe. The others are people in their parish, school, and community.

When the children have told you about the illustration, call their attention to the children at the top left. Note that they are at the beginning of the path. Read the title and the directions. Invite the children to follow the path and tell what each person the children meet might tell them about Jesus. Accept all answers. One possible version: The woman with brownies might tell how Jesus especially loved poor people and fed them when they were hungry. The man with the child might tell that Jesus loved children. The priest can tell the children about Mass and how Jesus gave us this sacrament

to remember him and praise God in his name. The Promise teacher meets with the children to read the Gospel stories. The child pulling the wagon is showing that followers of Jesus take care of others. Saint Juan Diego taught about Jesus’ mother, Mary. Saint Francis taught us that all Creation shows God’s goodness.

Activity ● Name Game Direct the children to put their Promise pages on their desks. Sit in a circle. Roll a ball to a child saying, “I roll the ball to _____, and _____ rolls it back to me.” You then roll the ball to another child and say the same thing. If the children know each other’s names, you can direct them to roll the ball to each other.

Objective The children will recognize that Jesus welcomes children.

Gospel Ritual Always go to the same area of the room for the Gospel proclamation. Display your copy of Promise and a Bible so the children connect the Gospel they hear in class and the Gospel they hear at Mass.

Print the word Gospel on the board. Ask: Who knows this word? Tell them it means “good news.” The Gospel we hear at Mass is the Good News about Jesus. Jesus is the Son of God. He came to live with us because he loves us so much. In every Promise class, we will hear one of the stories people wrote down about Jesus.

Play and sing “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24) as you prepare for the Gospel proclamation.

Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes little children. Share this Gospel with the children:

Jesus and his disciples went to Capernaum. On the way there, some of Jesus’ followers were arguing. After they were inside the house, Jesus asked, “What were you arguing about along the way?” They did not answer him. They had been arguing about which one of them was the greatest.

Jesus sat down, told his disciples to gather around him, and said, “If you want the place of honor, you must become a slave and serve others!” Then Jesus had a child stand near him. He put his arm around the child and said, “When you welcome a child because of me, you welcome me. And when you welcome me, you welcome my Father who sent me.”

Activity ● Creative Drama Direct the children to gather on one side of the room. Ask them to walk across the room like

Share Experiences


September 23, 2018 25th Sunday in Ordinary TimeVolume 33, Number 1

We learn to follow Jesus.

Follow the path to find the people who teach about Jesus.


The NEW

Gospel W

eeklies

PromiseV33 #1 2018-09-23.indd 1

4/26/18 12:03 PM

Lesson Wrap-UpVisit gospelweeklies.com/catechists-teachers to download Promise Weekly Review template.

Use Activity #1 from the Promise Activity Book as a take-home activity or lesson wrap-up.


September 23, 2018 • 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Remind the children to share their Gospel Weeklies with their families and to do the Family Corner activities and prayer together.

Objective The children will celebrate belonging to the community of Jesus’ followers.

Activity ● We learn about Jesus together. (page 2) Direct the children to place the picture of the classroom on page 2 of Promise faceup on their desks. Ask: What is happening in the picture? The children are learning about Jesus. Read the words on the chalkboard. Invite the children to make the face shape look like you, their teacher. Distribute scissors and glue or tape. Direct the children to cut out the picture of Promise on the bottom of page 4 and glue or tape it into place on page 2.

Activity ● We celebrate the Eucharist together. (page 4) Invite the children to turn to page 4 and describe this illustration. Have children draw themselves in the empty space at right. Direct them to cut out the picture of the Book of the Gospels and glue or tape it into place.

Closing Prayer Gather in a prayer circle. Begin by thanking God for this class of children who want to learn about Jesus. Give the children time to each voice a prayer of thanks. Conclude by praying: “For all good gifts, we thank you, God.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Close your prayer and gathering by singing “Come and Follow Me” (CD-2, #14).

Live the GospelWhat the Church Believes and Teaches

A Promise Is Special, Promises (pages 4–5)

Point out that the name of this book and of their weekly lessons is Promise. Ask: What is a promise? What other words or feelings does the word promise make you think of? Discuss making and keeping promises.

Ask: What kind of promises have you made? To whom did you make a promise? Who made a promise to you? What did they promise? How does it feel to keep a promise? How does it feel when someone keeps a promise?

Help the children find page 4 in their Catechism handbooks. Invite them to find a promise from God on this page: “I will send Jesus, my Son, to help you.” Pass out crayons and direct them to underline the promise. Help them find a promise from Jesus on this page: “I call you my friends.” Direct them to underline that promise. Emphasize that God always keeps his promises to us. Jesus is always true to his word.

Direct the children to look at page 5. Read the questions and answers aloud, pausing to let the children mark their answers. As the children are considering the promise they could make to God, remind them of the promises of God and Jesus on page 4. This may help them formulate their own promise.

Give each child a large paper heart. Ask them to copy their promise to God onto the heart. Then have them draw a picture of how they will fulfill their promise. Have the children take home their heart pictures as reminders of their promise to God. Encourage them to tell their family about their promise and picture. Suggest that they display their pictures at home where they can be reminded of their promise.

Read the text at the bottom of the page to summarize and reinforce your discussion.

Distribute the children’s What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks.

Have the children close the What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks and return to Promise, page 2.

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they are the only important person in the room. Then ask them to pretend to be Jesus welcoming a little child. Conclude by asking who they would rather be—a pretend great person or a person like Jesus who makes people feel welcome.


September 30, 2018 • 26th Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: Numbers 11:25–29; James 5:1–6;

Mark 9:38–43, 45, 47–48

For Catechists and TeachersScripture BackgroundIn the beginning verses of this Sunday’s Gospel, from which Promise derives its lesson, Jesus tells his friends to welcome all those who, like them, want to know and follow Jesus.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrinePromise prepares young children to participate fully in the life of the parish—in the reflection, worship, and commitment of the People of God. In Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us to notice and appreciate the people who gather with us, especially at Sunday Mass. Promise celebrates the children’s experiences of feeling welcome in their school and parish community.

“‘The liturgy is the summit towards which the activity of the Church is directed; it is also the foundation from which all her power flows’…. the Liturgy is ‘the privileged place for catechizing the People of God’” (NDC, 33, citing Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, 10, and Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1074). See also CCC, 2179.

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesRemind parents that Sunday Mass is when Catholics most fully experience our identity as Church. Encourage them to help their children understand that Jesus is with us at Mass in the people who gather in his name, in the stories from the Bible, in Holy Communion, and in the person of the priest.


60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● Cover Activity ● We gather to praise God. (page 1)●● Story ● It’s Not Easy Being a Kid

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus gathers us together. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama

Distribute the children’s What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks. Turn to page 16.

●● Activity ● We go to Mass. (pages 2–3)●● Activity ● Church Search (page 4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)



90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● Cover Activity ● We gather to praise God. (page 1)●● Story ● It’s Not Easy Being a Kid●● Activity ● Stretch and Move

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus gathers us together. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama



●● Activity ● We go to Mass. (pages 2–3)●● Activity ● Church Search (page 4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ●●“God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)








Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 9/30●● Catechism handbook, page 16●● CD player and Promise/Good News CDs●● crayons or pencils, stapler●● game markers and dice

NOTE: Cut 1” by 5” paper strips and print a child’s name on each.Suggested Music

●● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)


com/catechists-teachers)●● Video Links: Go to gospelweeklies.com/

blog to subscribe to GROW.

September 30, 2018 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

We gather to praise God.

Find thehidden objects

and people.


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Lesson Theme: We belong to God’s family.


Day 1

●● Gathering Song ● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-10)●● Cover Activity ● We gather to praise God. (page 1)●● Story ● It’s Not Easy Being a Kid●● Activity ● Stretch and Move●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for bringing us all

together. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for bringing us all together. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Gospel Ritual ●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus gathers us together. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to listen and learn about

Jesus. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to listen and learn about

Jesus. Amen. (Repeat.)

Distribute the students’ What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks. Turn to page 16.

●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #32●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to carry your love with us

always. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to carry your love with us always. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● We go to Mass. (pages 2–3)●● Activity ● Church Search (page 4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the beauty of your

Creation. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the beauty of your

Creation. Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer (see page TG1-11)●● Closing Song ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)


Share Experiences


Live the Gospel

Curriculum Connections●● ELA: Read stories about modern historical figures who have

done “mighty deeds” in today’s world (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr., Rachel Carson, etc.). Have the students vote on their favorite modern hero and write a short sentence explaining what they like about that person. (CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.K.7)

●● Math: Give the students small objects to count and group. Have the students count the objects they have. Then invite them to group objects according to categories (e.g., type, color, size). (CCSS.Math.Content.K.CC.B.4.A)


Catholic Identity Project of the Week Jesus invites all people to do good deeds in his name, including us. As a group, create a list of actions your children can do in Jesus’ name (e.g., help set the table at home, put away toys after playing, say please and thank you, etc.).

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● October 1: Saint Therese of the Child

Jesus (Lisieux) – This popular saint and Doctor of the Church called herself “God’s Little Flower.” She followed God in her “little way”—serving others through quiet acts of love.

●● October 2: Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels – Share the Prayer to My Guardian Angel with the children. It

can be found on page 25 in the Promise Catechism handbook.

●● October 4: Saint Francis of Assisi – This patron saint of ecology loved all of God’s Creation. He chose poverty and trusting God over wealth.

●● October 5: Saint Faustina Kowalska – This Polish saint had great trust in God’s divine mercy. One of her prayers is “Jesus, I trust in you.”

Extending Activities (gospelweeklies.com/catechists-teachers)


TG1-10

Objective The children will realize they are welcomed at church.

Gather in a circle and sing “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16) to begin your Promise session.

Gathering Prayer Pray: “Dear God, thank you for our parish community. Our families gather to praise you and learn about Jesus. Please bless our class today.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Cover Activity ● We gather to praise God. (page 1) Stay in the circle and distribute Promise and crayons or pencils. Read the title. Ask: What do you think it means to “praise” God? To show respect or admiration for. To honor with words or song. To highly value and respect. Ask: Who is gathering at the church? Can you find any other people hidden in the picture? Refer to the column of clues on the right. Give the children time to find the objects and people pictured and circle them.

Story ● It’s Not Easy Being a Kid Gather the children in the story area. Ask: When have you felt grownups didn’t want you around? Tell the following story:

“Being a kid is hard,” Dean muttered. He wanted to tell his mother about hitting a home run, but his mother said, “Dean, I’m glad about your home run, but I’m busy.” The next morning, Dean’s dad buckled him into the back seat and drove down the road past the Grover farm. His dad said, “Look, Dean, the Grovers have a horse now.” Dean stretched to see the horse, but the seatbelt held him down. All Dean could see was sky.

That night, Dean stood near his parents along the sidelines at the football game. When Dean heard a cheer and turned to watch, he could only see the bottom of his parents’ jackets. His dad picked him up just in time to see the backs of the players far down the field.

On Sunday morning, Dean went to Mass with his parents. Dean couldn’t see above the pew when he sat down, and he couldn’t see through the people in front of him when they stood up. That morning, the priest read the story about Jesus’ followers trying to keep children from bothering him. Jesus told them, “Let the little children come to me.”

Then Father Bill said, “I want all the children to come up front.” His dad poked Dean and told him to go to the front of the church. Father Bill said to the children, “Jesus loves you. And we love you.” Father Bill led the children around the altar table. Dean looked

around and could see everywhere and everybody in church. “Today is a great day to be a kid,” thought Dean.

Ask: How did Dean feel when his mom didn’t have time to hear about his home run? When he couldn’t see the horse in the field? At the football game? At church? Why did Father Bill invite the children up to the altar? Has that ever happened to you? How did you feel?

Activity ● Stretch and Move Move to an open area. Direct the children to stand so they can put out their arms and not touch another child. Lead them in these movements: Pretend to be a football player throwing a long pass. Let your eyes show how far you have thrown the ball. / Pretend to be Dean at the football game. Stand on tiptoe and stretch to see the teams as they come out on the field. / Pretend to be Dean in the pew at church, trying to see the altar around the grownups in front of him.

Objective The children will explore how they gather in Jesus’ name.

Play and sing “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24) to prepare for the proclamation of the Gospel.

Sunday Gospel ● Jesus gathers us together. (page 1) Invite the children to sit in a circle with their copies of Promise on the floor in front of them. Share the Gospel:

One day, Jesus’ friend John told him, “Teacher, we saw a man using your name to force bad spirits out of people. But he wasn’t one of your group of followers, so we told him to stop.”

Jesus said to his disciples, “Don’t stop him. No one who works a miracle in my name can say anything bad about me. Anyone who isn’t against us is for us. And anyone who gives you a cup of water because you are my follower will be rewarded in Heaven.

Ask: Why did Jesus’ friends want the other man to stop? What did Jesus say? What is good about lots of people telling the Good News about Jesus? Help the children reflect on the many people who teach religious education in your parish or preach the homilies or read at Mass. These people speak in Jesus’ name.

Invite the children to look at the cover of Promise again and see who is coming to join Jesus. Give each child a chance to comment on the illustration. Ask: Who did you come to church with on Sunday? Who did you sit next to/near? People who belong to our parish are followers of Jesus too.

Share Experiences


September 30, 2018 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

We gather to praise God.

Find thehidden objects

and people.


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September 30, 2018 • 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Objective The children will review their experience of Sunday Mass by playing a game.

Activity ● We go to Mass. (pages 2–3) Ask: Who went to Sunday Mass this week? Who did you go with? Where did you sit? Did anything special happen? What was best about being at Mass? What was hard? Give everyone a chance to contribute, then move to the work area and assign partners for the game. Have each pair use one child’s copy of Promise. Give each pair two game markers and a die. Check to see that all the pairs are ready and tell them to begin. Allow them to play as many rounds as time allows. Be sure to leave time for discussion about which of the behaviors and which parts of the Mass were familiar to them.

Activity ● Church Search (page 4) This activity provides an opportunity for you to have time in church with your class and hear their questions and comments. Involve your parish priest or another parish staff person. If you don’t have time for the tour this week, schedule it as soon as you can.

Closing Prayer Gather in a prayer circle. Distribute name strips. Invite the children to repeat the words of this prayer after you: Loving God, we praise you because you are so good and loving! (Repeat.) We are Jesus’ followers. (Repeat.) We gather together to learn about Jesus. (Repeat.) Teacher receives each name strip, says, “_____ is a follower of Jesus,” and staples the link to the chain. Please bless... Teacher reads names shared earlier. Amen.

Bring your prayer and session to a close by playing and singing “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6).


Live the Gospel

What the Church Believes and Teaches Our Church Family (page 16)

Invite the children to tell you about their family gatherings and celebrations. Ask: What do you do at these gatherings? How do these gatherings and activities help your family grow closer? How is our church family gathering for Mass like a family gathering? We pray and sing together. We share family stories from the Bible. We eat a holy meal.

Read page 16 together. Distribute crayons and invite the children to trace and color the word Mass. Tell the children that at Mass, we pray to God to help us and others. Invite the children to think of some people they would like to pray for. Write down these names to add to the closing prayer.

Remind the children of the Sign of the Cross, a prayer that is both words and actions. Ask: Can you think of other prayerful actions? Tell them that many actions are part of our celebration of the Mass. Invite the children to practice each prayerful action as you discuss it: Genuflect / Bow / Offer a Sign of Peace / Kneel / Stand / Make the Sign of the Cross on forehead, lips, and heart before the Gospel / Fold hands in prayer / Fold arms over chest.


Have the children close the What the Church Believes and Teaches handbooks and return to Promise, pages 2–3.



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Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama Choose one child to be Jesus, two children to be his friends, one to be the man who is forcing out bad spirits in Jesus’ name, and the rest to be the people Jesus will go out to greet.

Read the Gospel again. Direct the child portraying the man to pantomime healing a person. The two friends get angry and run to Jesus. Jesus listens and gives them a hug to show he understands them. Then he points to the rest of the children and invites them over so they can be part of his group of friends. Finally, he invites the man over too.


October 7, 2018 • 27th Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: Genesis 2:18–24;

Hebrews 2:9–11; Mark 10:2–16

For Catechists and Teachers Scripture BackgroundIn Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus invites parents to bring their children to him. He blesses the children and tells his followers that children show us how to be in the Kingdom.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrinePromise celebrates Jesus’ welcoming action and children’s identity as followers of Jesus and members of his family.

Catechesis is the name “given to the totality of the Church’s effort to make disciples” (CCC, 4). “All Christ’s faithful are called to hand [the Good News] on from generation to generation” (CCC, 3). Each Promise lesson aims to help catechists and parents hand on not just the faith we believe, but also the faith we celebrate, live, and pray.

“Christ calls all the faithful to proclaim the Good News everywhere in the world and to hand his message on to successive generations by professing, living, and celebrating the faith in Liturgy and prayer” (NDC, 15). See also CCC, 777,1193, 1407.

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesEncourage parents to do all they can to help their children participate fully in Sunday Mass—sitting near the front, helping readers to find pages of readings and songs, talking about the Gospel before or after Mass. Suggest that they practice making the Sign of the Cross with their child.


60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● Story ● The Birthday Party●● Activity ● Create a Picture (page 2)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes families. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama


●● Activity ● I belong to Jesus’ family. (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “The Holy Family” (CD-1, #10)



90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● Story ● The Birthday Party●● Activity ● Stretch and Move●● Activity ● Create a Picture (page 2)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes families. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama



●● Activity ● I belong to Jesus’ family. (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “The Holy Family” (CD-1, #10)








Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 10/7●● Catechism handbook, pages 15 & 26●● CD player and Promise/Good News CDs●● scissors, glue or tape●● pencils, crayons, crucifix●● name strips from 9/30 class

NOTE: Separate pages 1–2 from 3–4.Suggested Music

●● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● “The Holy Family” (CD-1, #10)




October 7, 2018 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jesus welcomes families.


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Lesson Theme: Jesus loves children and families.


Day 1

●● Gathering Song ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-14)●● Story ● The Birthday Party●● Activity ● Stretch and Move●● Activity ● Create a Picture (page 2)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for making each one of us

special. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for making each one of us special. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes families. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the gift of Jesus and his

love for us. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the gift of Jesus and

his love for us. Amen. (Repeat.)


●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #25●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, we praise you and thank you for

creating us. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, we praise you and thank you for creating us. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● I belong to Jesus’ family. (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, bless our families—today and every

day. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, bless our families—today and

every day. Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer (see page TG1-15)●● Closing Song ● “The Holy Family” (CD-1, #10)


Share Experiences


Live the Gospel

Curriculum Connections●● SS: Talk to the students about the experiences children had in

the past. Have them create a chart comparing their experiences to those of children in the past. (D2.His.2.K-2)

●● ELA: Invite the students to write a narrative about something they have done with their family. Make sure they include at least two sequenced events and temporal words. (CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.1.3)


Catholic Identity Project of the Week Jesus reminds us that to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, we must become like little children. Some children are challenged by illness. Have your children create cards to send to the patients of a local children’s hospital or children’s ward.

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● October 9: Saint John Leonardi – Saint

John studied for 10 years to become a pharmacist before he started studies to become a priest. His work in prisons and hospitals inspired laymen to become priests. He founded the Order of the Mother of God and a seminary to train missionaries. He died from a disease contracted while tending to people stricken by the plague.

●● October 11: Saint John XXIII – “Good Pope John” was an older man when he was elected pope, yet he called for the Second Vatican Council—a major event of renewal for the Catholic Church. He was concerned about peace in our world and worked for peace during the Cold War. Pray for peaceful solutions to conflicts throughout the world.



TG1-14

Objective The children will recognize they belong to a human and a church family.

Gather in a circle and sing “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6) to begin your Promise gathering.

Gathering Prayer Pray: “Jesus, we know you love children and their families. Thank you for giving each of us a family to love us. Thank you for making us part of your family at church.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Story ● The Birthday Party Gather the children in a story circle. Take roll call by reading from the chain of names you made in last week’s Promise class. Have paper strips ready to add a link for any new child. Place the chain where you share the Gospel.

Ask: Who has had a birthday party? Let volunteers tell who they invited, where it was, what kind of food they had. Don’t talk about gifts. Tell the children you know a story about a little girl who had her sixth birthday last summer.

Ask: Who knows what family member would be called Abuelo? Abuelo is Spanish for “Grandfather.” Share this story:

Martina was having a birthday. She would be six years old on Sunday. The Gonzalez family tradition is that the birthday boy or girl could choose a place for the family birthday dinner. Since Martina’s birthday was on Sunday, the party could be at breakfast or lunch. “Where would you like to have your birthday celebration, Martina?” her father asked. “Who do you want to come along?” her mother asked. Martina said, “I want everybody—you and you and Alejandro and the baby and Abuelo (Grandpa).” “That’s fine,” said Dad. “We will all go to Mass together and go to eat after Mass. You decide where we should go.” Martina thought about where she wanted to have her birthday celebration.

On Saturday, Martina told her mom, “I think we should go to McDonald’s.” Mom said. “Dad, Alejandro, and I like McDonald’s, but Abuelo…” Mom hesitated. Martina said, “Abuelo thinks it is too crowded, doesn’t he?”

Martina got another idea. “We could go to the Pancake House,” she said. “The Pancake House is nice,” said Mom, “but the lines are very long on Sunday. Baby will probably fuss while we wait.” Martina sighed. “We can’t go there either.”

Bella the dog came running into the room and jumped into Martina’s lap. Martina kissed Bella on her head and petted her. “Mom,” Martina said. “I want to have my birthday party someplace where Bella can go.” “Let me see,” Mom said. “We want a place that

Abuelo will like, where the baby won’t fuss, and where Bella can come. I have an idea.” Mom whispered in Martina’s ear.

Ask: What do you think her idea was? Don’t let on if any of the guesses are right. Distribute Promise and direct the children to turn to page 2. Invite them to identify the characters in the story and tell why each of them is happy to have a picnic in the park.

Activity ● Stretch and Move Ask: What do you like to do when you go to a park? Invite the children to stand so there is plenty of room between them. Have them act out the different activities they named as you call them out.

Activity ● Create a Picture (page 2) Move to the work area. Distribute scissors and direct the children to cut out the pictures at the top of page 2. Invite them to glue or tape the pictures on the park scene.

Objective The children will appreciate Jesus’ love for us.

Play and sing “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24) to prepare the children for the proclamation of the Gospel.

Sunday Gospel ● Jesus welcomes families. (page 1) Invite the children to sit in a circle with page 1 of Promise on the floor in front of them. Invite the children to describe the cover illustration. Tell them Sunday’s Gospel:

Some people brought their children to Jesus so that he would place his hands on them and bless them. But Jesus’ disciples told the people to stop bothering him.

When Jesus saw this, he became angry and said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t try to stop them. People who are like these little children belong to the Kingdom of God. You cannot get into God’s kingdom unless you accept it the way a child does.” Then Jesus took the children in his arms and blessed them by placing his hands on them.

Invite the children to pick up their copies of Promise and look at the cover. Ask: What do you think Jesus liked about the children? Why did he want them with him? What did the children like about Jesus? What does Jesus like about you? Conclude by telling the children that Jesus likes children today as much as he liked those in the Gospel story.

Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama This is a good Gospel for children to act out. Take the part of Jesus. Choose 3 or 4 children to be your disciples. The rest of the class are the children who come to Jesus. Begin by saying, “Jesus was tired and decided

Share Experiences



Jesus welcomes families.


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October 7, 2018 • 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Objective The children will learn the Sign of the Cross is a sign of Jesus’ followers.

Activity ● I belong to Jesus’ family. (pages 3–4) Return to the work area. Distribute pages 3–4 and crayons. Show how to fold the page to make a booklet with Jesus on the cover. Read the cover sentences aloud and invite the children to comment on the illustration, recalling the Gospel. Direct them to write their names on the blank.

Turn to pages 2–3 of the booklet. Read the sentence at top. Ask: What are some ways you show you belong to Jesus’ family? Recall the earlier discussion about the Sign of the Cross. Direct the children to complete the follow-the-dot cross on booklet page 2. Read the words aloud and practice the gestures. Complete the activity on booklet page 3.

Turn to booklet page 4. Talk with the children about who makes up their family. Tell them that a family is the people who know us, help us, and like having us around. That is why we sometimes call the parish our church family. Help the children write the names of their family members.

Closing Prayer ● Our family follows Jesus. (booklet page 4) Gather the children in a prayer circle. Read the prayer on page 4. Invite the children to speak aloud the names of people they wish to pray for.

Remind the children that Jesus also belonged to a family. Play and sing “The Holy Family” (CD-1, #10).


Live the Gospel

to rest for a while.” Sit on a chair a little way from the children. Then say, “The children saw Jesus and went to him.” The children go over and sit in front of Jesus. “The followers of Jesus scolded the children and told them to leave Jesus alone.” Children get up and start to leave. Then you say, “Come to me, children. I like children.” The children return and take turns showing Jesus what they are wearing or telling him about their pets or showing him their Promise issue. Call the disciples over and conclude by saying, “I love all of you. You are very special to me.”

What the Church Believes and Teaches The Sign of the Cross (page 15) Jesus Loves Children (page 26)

Move to the work area and show a crucifix. Ask: What does the crucifix means to you? A sign of God’s love.

Distribute crayons. Help the children find page 15 in their Catechism handbooks. The text picks up the theme of promise. Ask: Do you ever say “Cross my heart” when you make a promise? What do you mean when you say this? Invite them to make the Sign of the Cross without words. Stop them when they reach for their left shoulder. They are crossing over their hearts. Encourage them to think about this whenever they make the Sign of the Cross. They are crossing their hearts to promise to do everything in God’s name. Give them time to complete the dot-to-dot activity.

Discuss when we can pray the Sign of the Cross: at the beginning and end of prayers, when we are frightened, when we need God’s help, when we are doing something for God.

Tell them that when we enter or leave the church, we make the Sign of the Cross with holy water. It is a reminder of when we became children of God through Baptism.

Help the children find page 26 in their Catechism handbooks. Remind the children of the Gospel story. Ask: How did this story makes you feel?



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Read the two paragraphs starting with “Jesus wants you…” Invite them to draw a picture of themselves talking to Jesus in prayer. As they are busy drawing, write in each child’s favorite place to pray.


October 14, 2018 • 28th Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: Wisdom 7:7–11; Hebrews 4:12–13; Mark 10:17–30

For Catechists and Teachers Scripture BackgroundIn Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus asks a man to share his riches with the poor. This is one of many calls to discipleship we hear in the Gospels during October and November. Mark tells how people in Jesus’ time answered the call to follow him and share his values.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrinePromise helps children recognize ways they can follow Jesus by sharing with others. Young children find sharing very difficult. They cannot yet understand sharing for another person’s sake. They can, however, grasp the basic respect of others required in the commandments. Practicing respect for others prepares children to put themselves in another’s place. They need many experiences of sharing in order to experience the happiness that comes from giving to others.

“Respect for the inherent dignity of every human person is the foundation of a just society, and its ultimate end is the development of those persons to their fullest potential” (NDC, 43A).

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesParents already recognize that sharing is not easy for their young child. Encourage them to use the “I Can Share” cards to play a memory game.


60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● Story ● The Clown’s Candy (page 2)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus teaches us how to be happy. (page 1)


●● Activity ● I Can Share Game (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)



90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● Story ● The Clown’s Candy (page 2)●● Activity ● Stretch and Move

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus teaches us how to be happy. (page 1)



●● Activity ● I Can Share Game (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)








Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 10/14●● Catechism handbook, page 21●● CD player and Promise/Good News CDs●● crayons, scissors, glue or tape●● magazines, poster board


●● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)





Share with each

other.

Fold to make the arrows meet.

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Lesson Theme: Jesus asks us to share.


Day 1

●● Gathering Song ● “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16)●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-18)●● Story ● The Clown’s Candy (page 2)●● Activity ● Stretch and Move●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to become good helpers.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to become good helpers. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus teaches us how to be happy. (page 1)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, teach us how to be happy. Amen.

(Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, teach us how to be happy. Amen.

(Repeat.)


●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #24●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to share with others. Amen.

(Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to share with others. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● I Can Share Game (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to show respect to others.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to show respect to others.

Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer (see page TG1-19)●● Closing Song ● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)


Share Experiences


Live the Gospel

Curriculum Connections●● SS: Have the students make a list of benefits and costs for

the man if he were to follow Jesus and sell his belongings vs. keeping his belongings and not following Jesus. Then ask each student to identify a decision they made recently (listen to their parents, wash their hands before eating, etc.) and help them generate a list of benefits and costs associated with their decision. (D2.Eco.2.K-2)

●● Math: Have the students count to 100 by ones and tens. (CCSS.Math.Content.K.CC.A.1)


Catholic Identity Project of the Week It can be very difficult for us to part from our belongings. However, our belongings are not what will help us get to Heaven. Help your class participate in the charity drive organized by the older groups in the religious education program or school. Send home reminders.

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● October 14: Saint Paul VI – Pope Paul VI

continued the work of the Second Ecumenical Vatican Council started by Saint John XXIII. He wrote of the Christian call to work for justice and peace. Called the “pilgrim pope,” Paul VI was the first modern pope to travel outside Italy.

●● October 14: Saint Oscar Romero – A fierce advocate for the poor and persecuted in his native El Salvador,

Archbishop Romero was murdered while saying Mass on March 24, 1980.

Pope Francis will recognize the sainthood of Pope Paul VI and Oscar Romero this Sunday, October 14. When the two saints met at the Vatican in 1978, Pope Paul VI encouraged Romero to “proceed with courage, with patience, with strength, with hope.”



TG1-18

Objective The children will identify ways they can share and help.

Gather in a circle and sing “CHOICES” (CD-1, #16) to begin your Promise session.

Gathering Prayer Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray: “Dear Jesus, thank you for bringing us together as your family. Help us to learn that sharing with others makes us a happy family.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Story ● The Clown’s Candy (page 2) Remain in the circle. Ask: Who has been to a parade? Did anyone see a clown or people on floats throw candy to children? Allow time for sharing, then tell this story about three children who met a Candy Clown:

The town of Pleasantville always has a big parade on Popcorn Days to celebrate that they are the popcorn capital. This year, Max, Michelle, and Morgan were ready for the parade! They went early with Max’s dad and found places in front of the library. They sat down right away even though the parade would not come by for an hour. They had sacks ready for all the candy they hoped to get.

After a long time, they heard music. Max ran out into the street to look and yelled, “They’re coming!” Soon, the color guard with the flags marched by. Everyone stood up. Next was the high school band. A tractor pulled a wagon with girls in long dresses and wearing crowns. Eight beautiful horses with riders dressed in cowboy outfits pranced by.

Then Max, Michelle, and Morgan heard a strange sound—“Ooh-gah, Ooh-gah.” A clown riding a little bike was squeezing a horn to make the funny sound. “Ooh-gah. Ooh-gah.” When the clown saw Max, Michelle, and Morgan, he reached into the bike basket and threw a handful of candy into the air! The three children scrambled to pick up the candy. Max got five pieces, Michelle got nine pieces, but Morgan only got one. What do you think happened next?

Accept all responses, then invite the children to close their eyes and imagine what they would do with the candy. Again, accept all responses.

Move to the work area and distribute pages 1–2 of Promise. Direct the children to turn to page 2. Identify the three children at the bottom of the page. Count the pieces of candy. Distribute a red, green, and blue crayon to each child. Ask how the three children could share the 15 pieces of candy. Some may respond that they should get as many pieces as they picked up in the

street. Others may think they should share equally—five pieces each. When you think they are ready, tell them to use the green crayon to show how much candy Max should have. Continue by using the red crayon for Michelle and the blue crayon for Morgan.

Activity ● Stretch and Move Gather the children in an open area. Have them stand so they can swing their arms like a weather vane and not touch anyone or anything.

Teacher: I have a jump rope to share.The children jump rope in place.Teacher: I have a basketball to share.The children dribble and shoot baskets in place.Teacher: I have a bouncing ball to share.The children become bouncing balls.

Objective The children will recognize the importance of sharing.

Play and sing “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24) to prepare the children for the proclamation of the Gospel.

Sunday Gospel ● Jesus teaches us how to be happy. (page 1) Have the children sit with their copies of Promise on the floor in front of them. Tell this Gospel story:

As Jesus was walking along, a rich man ran up to him. The man knelt down and asked, “Good teacher, what can I do to get to Heaven?”

Jesus replied, “You know the commandments. ‘Do not murder. Be faithful in marriage. Do not steal. Do not tell lies about others. Do not cheat. Respect your father and mother.’”

The man answered, “Teacher, I have obeyed all these commandments since I was a young man.”

Jesus looked at the man with love and said, “There’s one thing you still need to do. Go sell everything you own. Give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in Heaven. Then come and follow me.” When the man heard Jesus say this, he went away sad because he was very rich.

Ask: How did Jesus feel when the man walked away? Was he sad? Disappointed? Do you think the man thought it over and came back? What would Jesus say to him if he did that? Why was selling his possessions hard for the man? What don’t you want to sell or give to someone else? What ways do you share with others every day?

Share Experiences



Share with each

other.

Fold to make the arrows meet.

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What the Church Believes and Teaches Jesus Teaches Us (page 21)

Help the children find page 21 in their Catechism handbooks. Invite them to visualize each teaching of Jesus listed on this page. Ask: How could do you do each of these? For example, they could tell about how they have been fair, a time when they told the truth, and so on.

Distribute crayons and invite the children to complete the activity. Invite volunteers to act out each example of someone following Jesus. Let them add their own ideas of how children follow a teaching of Jesus. The rest of the class may guess what action is being demonstrated.

Write the words Jesus Teaches Us on a poster board. Pass out magazines and scissors. Direct the children to look for pictures that show people helping, sharing, or forgiving. Each child should find one photo to cut out and add to the poster. Display the poster and use it over the next few weeks to remind the children of ways we can follow Jesus’ teachings.



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Objective The children will identify concrete ways of sharing with others.

Activity ● I Can Share Game (pages 3–4) Distribute pages 3–4 of Promise. Read the words on page 3 with the children. Explain the rectangles are cards for a sharing game. Turn the page over. Go through the left-hand column of illustrations, asking the children to describe the sharing activity pictured. Distribute scissors and direct the children to cut out the cards on the heavy lines. Divide the class into pairs and help the children play a memory game.

Have partners place their 24 cards picture-side down in front of them in rows of six each. Direct the children to take turns picking up a card, looking at the illustration, and then picking up another card to try to find a match. If the second card is a match, the player may keep both cards; if not, the player must replace both cards and the other player takes a turn. Play continues until all the cards have been matched.

Closing Prayer Invite the children to sit in a circle with their set of cards in their hands. Begin the prayer by taking one of your cards, holding it up so the words I Can Share show, and saying “I can share _____” (name something). As the children think of something they can share, they do as you did. Continue until all have finished sharing. Conclude with an informal prayer thanking God for those who share with us.

Lead the children in playing and singing “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17) to bring your prayer and gathering to a close.

Live the GospelInvite the children to pick up Promise and describe the children in the illustrations on the right side of the cover. Then invite them to describe the children on the left. Read together Jesus’ words to the child talking to him.

Move to the work area. Show the children how to fold the page on the right-hand dotted line so the arrows at the top and bottom of the page meet as shown in the illustration. Discuss how sharing makes all the children happier. This is what Jesus wanted for the man in the Gospel.


October 21, 2018 • 29th Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: Isaiah 53:10–11; Hebrews 4:14–16; Mark 10:35–45

For Catechists and Teachers Scripture BackgroundSunday’s Gospel continues Mark’s exploration of what makes an ideal disciple. Jesus refused to silence a man expelling demons in his name. Then Jesus set up children as models his adult followers should imitate. Last Sunday, he invited a rich man to sell all he owned and become a disciple. Today, James and John learn that being first means serving the others.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrineYoung children like to help but are often told they are too little for a task. The Promise story and activities help the children see that they are just the right size for helping at home, at school, and with their friends at play.

“We are called to be leaven in society, applying Christian values to every aspect of our lives…. Christians, by virtue of their Baptism, must be the ‘servant’ leaders that Jesus Christ challenged the disciples to be” (NCD, 43B). See also CCC, 323, 1694.

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesHelp parents to recognize that helping is a learning activity. Encourage them to accept and guide their child in helping with tasks even when those tasks are completed far from perfectly. Children need to experience the good feelings that come from doing a job that helps others.


60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)●● Cover Activity ● Who are the helpers? (page 1)●● Story ● Touchdown! (page 2)

●● Activity ● Gospel Warm-Up●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus wants us to be helpers.●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama


●● Activity ● What makes me important? (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “Serving Each Other” (CD-1, #19)



90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)●● Cover Activity ● Who are the helpers? (page 1)●● Story ● Touchdown! (page 2)●● Activity ● Simon Says

●● Activity ● Gospel Warm-Up●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus wants us to be helpers.●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama



●● Activity ● What makes me important? (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “Serving Each Other” (CD-1, #19)








Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 10/21●● Catechism handbook, page 17●● CD player and Promise/Good News CDs●● scissors, crayons, pencils, hole punch●● construction paper, stapler or tape●● 24” length of yarn per child●● aides to help with cutting


●● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● “Serving Each Other” (CD-1, #19)





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Lesson Theme: Those who serve are important.


Day 1

●● Gathering Song ● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-22)●● Cover Activity ● Who are the helpers? (page 1)●● Story ● Touchdown! (page 2)●● Activity ● Simon Says●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to follow Jesus every day.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to follow Jesus every day. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● Gospel Warm-Up●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus wants us to be helpers.●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to become good helpers.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to become good helpers.

Amen. (Repeat.)


●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #20●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to follow good leaders. Amen.

(Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to follow good leaders. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● What makes me important? (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the many people who

help us. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the many people

who help us. Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer ● (see page TG1-23)●● Closing Song ● “Serving Each Other” (CD-1, #19)


Share Experiences


Live the Gospel

●● ELA: Invite the students to write a letter to a leader they admire. As needed, provide sentence stems. Students should use capital and lowercase letters as appropriate. (CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.1.1.A)

●● SS: Discuss what leaders do in a community. Then have the students brainstorm in small groups what roles other people have in a community. Ask the students to share their lists with the class. (D2.Civ.2.K-2)


Catholic Identity Project of the Week We are given many gifts through Baptism. Ask the students either to make cards congratulating newly baptized children in the parish or to write a letter to parents in Baptism preparation classes explaining what they feel they have been given through their Baptism.

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● October 21: World Mission Sunday –

Started in 1926 by Pope Pius XI as a day of prayer for missions, the Church now sets aside this day to renew its commitment to missionary work. Catholics donate funds to support more than 1,000 missionary churches around the world. Pray: Loving God, the greatest in your kingdom are those who serve. Today, we pray for missionaries who answer that call.

●● October 22: Saint John Paul II – The feast days of most sainted popes commemorate the date of their death. However, for Saint John Paul II, this day marks the start of his papacy, which began on this date in 1978 (40 years ago). He was Pope for almost 27 years, during which time he traveled to visit Catholics all over the world.



TG1-22

Objective The children will identify people who are important to them.

Gather in a circle and sing “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17) to begin your Promise gathering.

Gathering Prayer Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray: “Dear Jesus, help us to carry your light in our hearts. Help us to let our good actions shine on others.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Cover Activity ● Who are the helpers? (page 1) Gather the children in a story circle. Ask: Who are the helpers at home? At school or day care? On the playground? Help the children understand that people who are helpers are important in their lives. Distribute pages 1–2 of Promise and give the children time to study the cover illustration and identify the helpers.

Story ● Touchdown! (page 2) Ask: Who is the most important player on a football team? The children might say quarterback, biggest, or fastest. Tell them you know a story about an important player. Invite them to listen to see who it was.

On Labor Day, the O’Leary and Rooney families always had a picnic. Jenny Rooney and her cousin Jason O’Leary wanted to play touch football against their little sisters and their aunt. Jenny was a fifth grader; Jason was in fourth.

“Jenny and I will play against everybody else,” said Jason. Aunt Jan joined the side with the little girls, Angela and Jessie. “We can try some of my special plays and maybe we can win,” she told them. Their little sister, Stacy, wanted to play, but Jessie said, “You’re too small.”

The game started. Jenny and Jason ran faster than their sisters and caught passes better. They ran for touchdowns. They figured out all of Aunt Jan’s special plays. The score was 24 to 0 when Stacy nudged her way into the huddle beside Jessie. “You can’t play,” said Jessie. “Maybe she can,” said Aunt Jan. “I have an idea.” She whispered the plan, and the team lined up. “Hut one, hut two,” Aunt Jan called out. Stacy hiked the ball to Aunt Jan. Angela and Jessie took off running as fast as they could toward the garage, yelling, “Throw it to me!” Jason and Jenny ran after them. Aunt Jan put the ball in Stacy’s arms and said, “Run to the back steps.” And Stacy ran.

By the time Jenny and Jason realized Stacy had the ball, she was way ahead of them. Stacy got to the steps and sat down on the bottom one. “Our first touchdown,” Jessie yelled. “Hooray, Stacy!” said Angela.

Invite the children to turn to page 2 and read the picture story aloud with a partner. When all have finished, ask: Who was a surprise helper in the game?

Activity ● Simon Says Invite the children to stand and stretch. Begin a Simon Says game with the teacher leading.

Objective The children will recognize Jesus calls all people to be important by helping others.

Activity ● Gospel Warm-Up Gather the children in a circle. Direct them to close their eyes and listen for sounds that you make. Tell them to raise their hands when they hear the sound.

Play and sing “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24) as preparation for the proclamation of the Gospel.

Sunday Gospel ● Jesus wants us to be helpers. Tell the children Sunday’s Gospel:

One day, James and John, two of Jesus’ disciples, came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, will you do us a favor?”

Jesus asked them what they wanted, and they answered, “When you come into your glory, please let one of us sit at your right side and the other at your left.”

Jesus told them, “You don’t really know what you’re asking! Are you able to drink from the cup that I must soon drink from?” (Jesus was talking about how he would die for his friends.)

“Yes, we are!” said James and John.Jesus said to them, “You will drink from the cup I must drink. But

God decides who will sit at my right and at my left in Heaven.”When the ten other disciples heard this, they were angry with

James and John. But Jesus called them all together and said: “You know that some kings like to order their people around. And some leaders have lots of power over people. Don’t act like them. If you want to be great, you must be serve others. If you want to be first, you must be everyone’s slave. I did not come to be a slave master, but a slave who will give up his life to save many people.”

Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama Invite the children to stand. Direct them to pretend to be James and John, who have a question for Jesus about being important. Now they become the other disciples who are angry at James and John for wanting to be first. Finally, they are Jesus, who shows ways to serve others. The

Share Experiences



Who are the helpers?


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Objective The children will recognize that they are important.

Activity ● What makes me important? (pages 3–4) Gather the children in the work area, distribute scissors, crayons, and pages 3–4 of Promise. Read the question at the top of page 3. Review what Jesus taught about what makes people important in his kingdom. Find Jesus’ words around the outside of the circle. Invite the children to follow with their fingers as you read the words. Read the sentences inside the circle.

Direct the children to turn to page 4. Tell them they will make a medallion that shows they are important to God. Direct them to print their names on the line and cut out the circle. While the children are doing this, punch holes in their medallions. Help the children string yarn through the holes and knot the ends.

Direct the children to cut off the strip with the word HELPER on it. Make bracelets by taping or stapling the strip around each child’s wrist.

Closing Prayer Gather the children in a prayer circle wearing their medallions and bracelets.

Teacher: I am important (point to self). I help children learn about Jesus.Continue in a circle with each child pointing to himself or herself, saying: “I am important. I help (name a way they help).”Teacher: “Dear Jesus, thank you for the people who help us. Teach us to be good helpers too.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Play and sing “Serving Each Other” (CD-1, #19) to bring your Promise session to a close.


Live the Gospel



What the Church Believes and Teaches Your Parish (page 17)

Help the children find page 17 in their Catechism handbooks. Read the top third of the page. Ask: What are some things you like about our parish? Print the name of your parish on the board. Give the children time to copy it into their books. You might wish to share information about the parish’s patron saint.

Ask: Who are some of the helpers in our parish? Tell them that our Church needs lots of helpers. A very important helper is the parish priest. Help the children understand that the pastor takes care of the people of the parish. Read the middle third of the page. Print the name of your parish priest(s) on the board. Give the children time to copy this into their handbooks.

After you have discussed all that your pastor does for you, invite the children to make a thank-you card for him. Distribute construction paper. Help the children fold their paper to make cards. On the front, direct them to draw a picture of your pastor helping someone in the parish. On the inside, direct them to write, “Thank you for ...” The children can fill in the actions they have drawn on the front and sign the card.

Read the section about the Pope. Show the children a picture of our Pope and ask: What is our Pope’s name? Print his name on the board so the children can copy it into their handbooks. Encourage them to listen for the Pope’s name the next time they go to Mass. Explain that we always pray for him and for the whole Church at Mass.



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children might mime: opening a door for someone, sharing food, praying for someone, grooming a pet, setting the table, pushing someone in a swing, picking up litter. Ask: What makes a person important in Jesus’ eyes? Being a helper to others.


October 28, 2018 • 30th Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: Jeremiah 31:7–9;

Hebrews 5:1–6; Mark 10:46–52

For Catechists and Teachers Scripture BackgroundSunday’s Gospel gives us a picture of the ideal disciple. Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, hears about Jesus and asks him for help so loudly and persistently that Jesus heals him. Bartimaeus then follows Jesus.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrineJesus doesn’t put potential disciples down if they are not totally clear about what following him means. He simply asks them to come along and keep learning. This openness to growth and change is natural to most young children. We also witness this response in the lives of saints we honor on All Saints’ Day and throughout November. This Promise lesson celebrates all the gifts of God the children can see with their eyes.

“With God’s grace, catechesis develops initial faith, nourishes the Christian life, and continually unfolds the mystery of Christ until the believer willingly becomes his disciple” (NDC, 19A).

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesEncourage parents to invite their child to tell about the walk Colton takes with his grandpa. Suggest they take a family walk and name and thank God for all that they see.


60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song & Prayer ● “Have You Ever Seen…?” (CD-2, #15)●● Cover Activity ● We see God’s goodness in Creation. (page 1)●● Story ● A Walk with Grandpa (page 2)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus helps Bartimaeus see.●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama●● Activity ● I Can See


●● Activity ● Jesus helps a blind man see. (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer & Song ● “Have You Ever Seen…?” (CD-2, #15)



90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song & Prayer ● “Have You Ever Seen…?” (CD-2, #15)●● Cover Activity ● We see God’s goodness in Creation. (page 1)●● Story ● A Walk with Grandpa (page 2)●● Activity ● Creative Drama

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus helps Bartimaeus see.●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama●● Activity ● I Can See



●● Activity ● Jesus helps a blind man see. (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer & Song ● “Have You Ever Seen…?” (CD-2, #15)








Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 10/28●● Catechism handbook, page 24●● CD player and Promise/Good News CD-2●● scissors, statue or image of Mary


●● “Have You Ever Seen…?” (CD-2, #15)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● “Saints” (CD-2, #22)





We see God’s goodness in Creation.


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Day 1

●● Gathering Song ● “Have You Ever Seen…?” (CD-2, #15)●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-26)●● Cover Activity ● We see God’s goodness in Creation. (page 1)●● Story ● A Walk with Grandpa (page 2)●● Activity ● Creative Drama●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for all the wonders of your

Creation. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for all the wonders of your Creation. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus helps Bartimaeus see.●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama●● Activity ● I Can See●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the gift of sight and our

other senses. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the gift of sight and

our other senses. Amen. (Repeat.)


●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #22●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the saints who help us

follow you. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the saints who help us follow you. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● Jesus helps a blind man see. (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to use our gifts to praise you.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to use our gifts to praise

you. Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer (see page TG1-27)●● Closing Song ● “Have You Ever Seen…?” (CD-2, #15)


Share Experiences


Live the Gospel

Lesson Theme: We can see God’s goodness.

Curriculum Connections●● ELA: Read the students a story about how they can help a

person with visual impairments. Ask them to recall how they can help. (CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.K.1)

●● Health: Show the students a video about eye health (such as from the NEI: https://nei.nih.gov/youtube/kids). Break the students into small groups and invite them to act out a demonstration of ways to protect their eyes. (NHES.7.2.2)


Catholic Identity Project of the Week Read Six Dots: A Story of Young Louis Braille by Jen Bryant to your group. Have them practice writing their names in braille. If possible, invite a member of the parish with visual impairments to speak with the group about her/his experience navigating the world.

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● November: Black Catholic History Month

(US) – The Church specifically honors black Catholics, including Saint Martin de Porres, Father Augustus Tolton, and Sister Antona Ebo. During Mass, listen for Saints Perpetua and Felicity in Eucharistic Prayer I.

●● November 1: Solemnity of All Saints – Pray a litany to the saints. Name the saint for each child’s name. Leader: “Saint Mateo.” All respond: “Pray for us.”

●● November 2: The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls) – Today, we remember all those who have died. We pray they will be welcomed by God into Heaven.

●● November 3: Saint Martin de Porres – Saint Martin was raised in poverty in Peru. He experienced racial prejudice but kept a heart of forgiveness and justice.



TG1-26

Objective The children will appreciate their sense of sight.

Gather in a circle to play and sing “Have You Ever Seen a Mustard Seed?” (CD-2, #15).

Gathering Prayer Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Pray: “Dear God, thank you for giving us the gift of sight—to be able to see all the people we love, to see all the beauty in your Creation. Help us to use our eyes to love you and to help others.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Cover Activity ● We see God’s goodness in Creation. (page 1) Gather the children in their work area. Distribute Promise and invite the children to describe the cover scene. Play the following game with the children. Say, “I see three butterflies.” Pause while the children find them. Continue by calling out: “I see... one wolf, five flowers, two birds, one heart, one sun, two bushes, one man. Ask: How could you have found the things in the picture if you couldn’t see? What would you miss seeing the most if you were blind?

Tell the children that the man in the picture is Saint Francis of Assisi. He was a follower of Jesus who lived a long time ago. He loved God’s Creation and saw God in every flower and bird, in every part of nature and in every person. Tell them they will learn more about saints later in this lesson.

Story ● A Walk with Grandpa (page 2) Invite the children to follow the dotted path on page 2 with their fingers and notice all the trees, plants, and animals along the path. Then have them follow the story of Colton’s walk with his grandpa:

Colton looked at the clock in his classroom. Ten minutes to three. Colton knew that his grandpa would get off the bus soon to walk home with him through the nature park as he did every Friday. Outside the school building, Colton’s grandma watched his grandpa step down the bus steps. She made sure Grandpa got off at the right spot because he was blind and used a white cane.

Colton rushed out of school when the bell rang, waved at Grandma, and took Grandpa’s arm. Colton and Grandpa set off on the winding path through the park. Grandpa soon smelled the sheep pen. “How are the sheep looking?” he asked Colton. Colton said, “White with black noses. They are very clean today.” “How is the apple tree?” asked Grandpa. “It has lots of apples,” said Colton. “Some have fallen to the ground.” Grandpa smiled. “I know,” he said. “I can smell them.”

Walk Colton and Grandpa on through the nature park. Have Colton describe what he sees.

Activity ● Creative Drama Invite the children to stand in a circle. They take turns coming to the center of the circle and showing with their bodies one thing that Colton saw on his walk with Grandpa. Examples: a tree (all children become a tree), a rabbit, duck, car, etc.

Objective The children will appreciate that Jesus gave Bartimaeus sight.


Sunday Gospel ● Jesus helps Bartimaeus see. Invite the children to sit in a story circle. Share this Gospel:

Jesus and his disciples were leaving the town of Jericho. They were followed by a large crowd. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus was sitting beside the road. When he heard that Jesus was passing by, he shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!” People told him to be quiet, but he shouted even louder, “Son of David, have pity on me!”

Jesus stopped and said, “Call him over!” People called out to the blind man and said, “Don’t be afraid! Get up! Jesus is calling for you.” Bartimaeus threw off his coat as he jumped up and ran to Jesus. Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man answered, “Master, I want to see.” Jesus told him, “You may go. Your eyes are healed because of your faith.” Right away, the man could see, and he went down the road with Jesus.

Ask: Why did Jesus help the blind man? How did the blind man feel when Jesus healed his eyes? What did he do? Impress upon the children that Jesus healed the man because of the man’s faith. Ask: What is faith? Believing and trusting in God’s promises. At every Sunday Mass, we say a prayer that tells what we believe about God. That prayer is called the Creed.

Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama Retell the Gospel using creative drama. The children remain sitting in the circle. The children close their eyes and become the blind man. The teacher becomes Jesus and walks inside of the circle. As Jesus walks by, the children shout out, “Help me, Jesus!” Jesus stops in the middle of the circle and asks, “What do you want me to do?” Children respond: “Please help me see.” Jesus says, “You believe in me, now you can see.” Children open their eyes, stand up, and dance in place saying, “I can see! I can see!”

Share Experiences



We see God’s goodness in Creation.


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Objective The children will tell the Gospel story of Bartimaeus.

Activity ● Jesus helps a blind man see. (pages 3–4) Gather in the work area. Distribute scissors and Promise pages 3–4. Direct the children to cut on the heavy lines and fold on the dotted lines to make a booklet of the Gospel story. Make sure each child’s booklet is put together correctly. Then read the Gospel story with them, using the version in their booklets. Encourage them to tell the story to their families.

Closing Prayer Stand quietly in a prayer circle. Pray: “Thank you, Jesus, for our eyes. Help us to use them to see ways to help each other and to see all the beautiful things you have made for us.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Close your prayer and gathering by singing “Have You Ever Seen a Mustard Seed?” (CD-2, #15).


Live the Gospel




What the Church Believes and Teaches Saints Pray for Us (page 24) Holy Days and Feast Days (page 19)

Place a statue of Mary on your prayer table. Help the children recall that Mary, Joseph, and Jesus are the Holy Family. They lived together as a family. Now they are together in Heaven. Mary, Joseph, and all the saints in Heaven are part of our church family. All of us who follow Jesus will be happy together in Heaven.

Help the children to learn or review the Hail Mary on page 29 of their Catechism handbooks. Explain unfamiliar words simply. For example, Hail is a greeting, like “Hello.” Fruit of your womb means “your child.” Ask the children to find the words that ask Mary to pray for us. Pray the Hail Mary together over the next several weeks.

Assure the children that they can ask Mary and all the saints to pray for them. Give the children time to do the puzzle.

Help the children find page 19 in their Catechism handbooks. Read the page and the directions for the activity. Give the children time to complete the activity.

Help the children learn more about saints:●● Read a picture book about one or more of these saints.●● Focus on the patron saint of your parish.●● Choose two saints whose feast days occur in the months in

which you meet with the children. On a class day near the feast days of these saints, tell the children about the saints and have a coloring page or other activity to do.

Close this part of the lesson by playing and singing “Saints” (CD-2, #22).



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Activity ● I Can See Gather in the open area. Instruct the children to use both hands to touch the body part named. Repeat going faster. Repeat again going very slowly.

I can see my hands. / I can see my nose. / I can see my knees. / I can see my toes. / I can see my fingers. / I can see my feet. / I can see my shoulders. / I can make my elbows meet.


For Catechists and TeachersScripture BackgroundIn Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus meets a scribe who asks which of the 613 commandments the Jewish people follow is the greatest. Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 6:4–5—the great statement of belief of the Jews—that God alone is to be loved and served above all. Then he adds his own commandment, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” The scribe commends Jesus on his answer.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrineWe are called to make God’s love visible to people in our time. In its stories and activities, Promise invites the children to consider how young children can show love.

“[D]ioceses and parishes should ensure that catechesis presents…[t]he double commandment of love of God and neighbor as the centerpiece of Jesus’ moral teaching, summing up the Decalogue and lived in the spirit of the Beatitudes” (NDC, 25G). See also CCC, 1970, 2055, 2196, 2761.

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesExplain to parents that their child has been exploring ways he or she acts as a follower of Jesus. Point out that this week, Promise provides a booklet illustrating the Lord’s Prayer (Our Father). Encourage them to ask their child to share the booklet and pray this prayer together each day.


60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song ● “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18)●● Gathering Prayer●● Cover Activity ● I can love. (page 1)●● Story ● Saint Katharine Drexel: An American Saint (page 2)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus Has Two Rules for Us


●● Activity ● Our Father Booklet (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer●● Closing Song ● “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18)



90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song ● “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18)●● Gathering Prayer●● Cover Activity ● I can love. (page 1)●● Story ● Saint Katharine Drexel: An American Saint (page 2)●● Activity ● Stretch and Move

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus Has Two Rules for Us



●● Activity ● Our Father Booklet (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer●● Closing Song ● “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18)








Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 11/4●● Catechism handbook, page 22●● CD player and Promise/Good News CDs●● crayons●● scissors

NOTE: Separate pages 1–2 from 3–4. Make one booklet in advance.Suggested Music

●● “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17)

Lesson Resources●● Promise Activity Book, Activity #4●● Weekly Review Template (gospelweeklies.com/

catechists-teachers)●● Video Links: Go to gospelweeklies.com/blog to

subscribe to GROW.

November 4, 2018 • 31st Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: Deuteronomy 6:2–6;

Hebrews 7:23–28; Mark 12:28b–34

November 4, 2018 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time

I can love.


This is someone I love.

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Lesson Theme: I can love.


Day 1

●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-30)●● Gathering Song ● “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18)●● Cover Activity ● I can love. (page 1)●● Story ● Saint Katharine Drexel: An American Saint (page 2)●● Activity ● Stretch and Move●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for rules that keep us safe

and happy. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for rules that keep us safe and happy. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Jesus Has Two Rules for Us●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for Jesus who teaches us

about you. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for Jesus who teaches us

about you. Amen. (Repeat.)


●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #4●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to follow your

commandments. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to follow your commandments. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● Our Father Booklet (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to show our love for you and

others. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to show our love for you

and others. Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer (see page TG1-31)●● Closing Song ● “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18)


Share Experiences


Live the Gospel

Curriculum Connections●● Tech: Explain to your class that we need to love our neighbor

as ourselves in all situations, including over technology. As a class, brainstorm ways they can respect people while they use technology. (ISTE2016.2)

●● SS: Have the students create a list of rules that exist inside and outside of school. Ask them to write two sentences explaining why we need rules and what purpose rules have in and out of school. (D2.Civ.3.K-2)


Catholic Identity Project of the Week As Christians, we are called to love our neighbor. There are many ways that we can show this love. As a class, plan and complete a simple service project to show love to a needy person or group in your community.

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● November 4–10: National Vocation

Awareness Week (US) – This year marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the diaconate in the United States. Pray for deacons, their wives, and for all who are discerning or serving in a vocational calling.

●● November 9: The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica – The Pope is a bishop. His church is the Lateran Basilica in Rome. Today, the Church celebrates the dedication of this

church (consecrated in A.D. 324). Act: As a class, offer your time to help care for your church building in some way or bring a treat for the parish staff.

●● November 10: Saint Leo the Great, pope – A Doctor of the Church isn’t one you see when you’re sick. They help write the official teachings of the Church. Saint Leo the Great is one.



TG1-30

Objective The children will identify concrete ways to show love for others.

Gather in a prayer circle. Play and sing “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18).

Gathering Prayer Pray: “Dear God, thank you for making the whole world for us to enjoy. Thank you for sending Jesus to teach us about you. We want to be your friends forever.” The children respond, “Amen.”

Cover Activity ● I can love. (page 1) Distribute pages 1–2 of Promise. Invite the children to look at the cover photos and identify how each person shows love. Ask: Who are the people and pets you love? How do you show them love? Give the children time to draw a picture of someone they love.

Story ● Saint Katharine Drexel: An American Saint (page 2) Tell the children that today’s story is about a real girl who grew up in Philadelphia. Tell them this story about Saint Katharine Drexel:

Over 100 years ago, there were two little girls who lived in a big house in Philadelphia with their mother and father. The two girls were Kate and Emily Drexel. Their family was very rich, and the two girls had everything they wanted. But Mr. and Mrs. Drexel didn’t spend all their money on their own family. Instead, they helped all the poor people they could. They always helped people who needed food and clothes. They helped people find good jobs. They gave to organizations that helped the poor in other cities. Kate and her sister learned from their parents to help when they saw someone in need.

Kate’s mother died when she was little. Her father married again, then he died too. Kate was only 19 years old and now she was very rich. Some of the Drexel family friends were priests and bishops. They told Kate that many children in the western and southern parts of the United States did not have schools. Kate could give money to build schools for these children. She did, but the schools needed teachers. Kate went on a trip to Rome. While she was there, she saw the Pope. “Holy Father,” Kate said, “will you send sisters to teach in the schools I have built for poor children?” The Pope said to Kate, “Why don’t you teach them yourself?”

Kate thought about what the Pope had said. She decided to start her own group of sisters. Their work would be to teach poor children. She called them the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. She changed her name from Kate to Sister Katharine. Together, Kate and

her sisters built and taught in 65 schools in the South, Midwest, and western parts of the United States. The sisters also teach in the inner city. Sister Katharine was named a saint by Pope John Paul II in 2000.

Direct the children to the cartoon story of Saint Katharine on page 2. Invite them to read the cartoon to each other in pairs. As a large group, discuss the question at the bottom of the page. Encourage the children to share this saint story with their families.

Activity ● Stretch and Move Gather in the open area. Tell the children they are going to pretend to be animals. Suggest they show movement but no sounds: Swim like a fish. / Fly like a bird. / Sit like a dog. / Stretch your neck like a giraffe. / Walk like an elephant. / Slither like a snake. / Jump like a kangaroo. / Pounce like a tiger. / Walk on soft little paws like a cat.

Objective The children will recognize that Jesus teaches us to love.


Sunday Gospel ● Jesus Has Two Rules for Us Explain that people in Jesus’ time kept many rules about religion—613 of them! Ask: What rule do you think Jesus would tell children is the most important? Then tell this Gospel story:

One day, a man asked Jesus, “What is the most important commandment?” Jesus answered, “The most important one is this: ‘There is only one God. You must love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.’ The second most important commandment is this: ‘Love others as much as you love yourself.’ No other commandment is more important than these.”

The man said, “Teacher, you are right to say there is only one God and that we must love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and that we must love others as much as we love ourselves. These commandments are more important than all the sacrifices and offerings that we could possibly make.”

When Jesus saw that the man understood, he told him, “You are not far from God’s kingdom.” After this, no one asked Jesus any more questions.

Ask: How many rules does Jesus want us to keep? What are they? Help the children to see rules about obeying parents, not fighting, and paying attention in class as ways to show love for God and for

Share Experiences


November 4, 2018 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time

I can love.


This is someone I love.

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November 4, 2018 • 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time

What the Church Believes and Teaches Jesus Wants Us to Do the Right Thing (page 22, bottom)

Help the children find page 22 in their Catechism handbooks. Help them understand that we can choose to obey God every day. We can choose to do what is right and good. Give an explanation of sin. A sin is freely choosing to do what we know is wrong. It is going against what God wants and disobeying God. Tell the children that we can’t judge whether an action is sinful by looking at how big a mess was made or how angry someone became. What makes an action a sin is choosing to do what we know is wrong.

Give the children time to draw a picture of themselves taking care of someone who needs help. As the children are drawing, you might like to play “Saying Yes” (CD-1, #17). Be sure to give the children an opportunity to share their pictures. Connect their actions to the Gospel passage as they share. Help the children identify acts of kindness they can do at home for family members.




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Objective The children will construct an Our Father booklet.

Activity ● Our Father Booklet (pages 3–4) Ask: What prayer starts with the words Our Father? Many will recognize this prayer from attending Mass with their families.

Direct the children to cut on the heavy dark line across page 3. The dotted lines are for folding. Show the children how to fold the top piece so the words Our Father are on the outside. Have your copy prepared to show them. They fold the bottom piece so the page with the foods is on the inside. Have them slip the pages together and check to make sure the prayer follows in sequence. Go through the booklet page by page, discussing the illustrations.

Closing Prayer Children can use gestures in praying the Lord’s Prayer. Practice these gestures, then gather in a prayer circle and pray the prayer together with the gestures:

Our Father… (arms outstretched and slightly raised)Thy kingdom… (arms make circle in front)On earth… (stretch out arms wide)Give us this day… (stretch out hands to receive)And forgive us… (shake hands with children on either side)And lead us not… (cross hands on chest)But deliver us… (fold hands in prayer)Amen. (lift arms high)

Close your prayer and gathering by singing “The Great Commandment” (CD-2, #18).


Live the Gospeleach other. Ask: How do you love yourself? Summarize by saying that Jesus gave us only two rules so we could remember them and live by them.

Remind the children about Saint Katharine Drexel. Ask: How did she show that she loved God and other people? Let the children know that these sisters still teach children all over the United States. One of their schools is Xavier University in New Orleans. Saint Katharine showed how to love with her whole heart and mind and strength.


November 11, 2018 • 32nd Sunday in Ordinary TimeSunday Readings: 1 Kings 17:10–16; Hebrews 9:24–28; Mark 12:38–44

For Catechists and TeachersScripture BackgroundBoth the Gospel and the Old Testament readings this Sunday call us to share not just from our excess but from what we need to sustain us. In Sunday’s Gospel, a poor widow gives all she has to the Temple treasury. Jesus calls attention to her because, unlike the richer people who contribute out of their abundance, she gives what little she has.

Connecting Scripture and DoctrineSunday’s Gospel calls us to be generous with what we have. Primary-age children can often be generous with common things—our house, our TV, our dinner—but very possessive of their own special things. Promise explores with the children the importance of sharing with others.

“Jesus consistently used the ordinary human experiences of daily life to form his disciples, to point to the end of time, and to show the transcendent dimension of all of life and of God’s eternal presence in it. (NDC, 29A).

Sharing the Lesson with FamiliesLet parents know that this week’s Promise asks their child what he or she is willing to give away. Encourage them to play the cover game with their child to lead into a family discussion about what they have that can be shared with those who have less.


60-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● Activity ● The Giving Game (page 2)●● Story ● What Can I Give?

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Every gift is important. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama


●● Activity ● I Can Give (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)



90-Minute Lesson

●● Gathering Song and Prayer ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● Activity ● The Giving Game (page 2)●● Story ● What Can I Give?●● Activity ● Stretch and Relax

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Every gift is important. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama



●● Activity ● I Can Give (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer and Song ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)








Materials●● Promise Student Lesson for 11/11●● Catechism handbook, page 10●● CD player and Promise/Good News CD-2●● coins, small game markers●● scissors, crayons●● glue, tape, or stapler

NOTE: Separate pages 1–2 from 3–4. Make one envelope in advance.Suggested Music

●● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)


com/catechists-teachers)●● Video Links: Go to gospelweeklies.com/

blog to subscribe to GROW.

November 11, 2018 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time


Every gift is important.

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Lesson Theme: I can give.


Day 1

●● Gathering Song ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)●● Gathering Prayer (see page TG1-34)●● Activity ● The Giving Game (page 2)●● Story ● What Can I Give?●● Activity ● Stretch and Relax●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for celebrations of love.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 2

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for celebrations of love. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Gospel Ritual ● “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24)●● Sunday Gospel ● Every gift is important. (page 1)●● Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for gifts—big and small.

Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 3●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for gifts—big and

small. Amen. (Repeat.)


●● Activity ● Promise Activity Book, Activity #19●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the gift of your Word

and its message of love. (Repeat.)

Day 4

●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, thank you for the gift of your Word and its message of love. Amen. (Repeat.)

●● Activity ● I Can Give (pages 3–4)●● Closing Prayer ● Loving God, help us to see that we all have gifts to

share. Amen. (Repeat.)

Day 5●● Gathering Prayer ● Loving God, help us to see that we all have gifts

to share. Amen. (Repeat.)●● Weekly Review●● Closing Prayer (see page TG1-35)●● Closing Song ● “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6)


Share Experiences


Live the Gospel

Curriculum Connections●● SS: Lead the students in a discussion of the reasons why people

save money. Ask them to share what they would want to save for. Have the students write a sentence explaining why people save. (D2.Eco.10.K-2)

●● Math: Have the students classify money math manipulatives into different categories and then count the quantity of the manipulatives in each category. (CCSS.Math.Content.K.MD.B.3)


Catholic Identity Project of the Week As Catholics, we work together to be the Body of Christ to all people. Remind your children to participate in the Penny War sponsored by the older grades. For a set period of time, each grade is given a jar. Display the jars in a common area of the parish and invite everyone to contribute spare cash. Coins added to a grade’s jar counts for them, but any bills will count against them. The money raised should be donated to a local charity.

Saints and Feast Days to Celebrate ●● November 11: Veterans Day (US) –

Today, we honor veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Remembrance Day in Canada, also celebrated this day, notes the armistice that ended WWI on November 11, 1918, and honors those who died. Offer a prayer of thanks for all who have served.

●● November 11–17: National Bible Week (US) – This week, commit to spending time with the daily readings (usccb.org/bible).

●● November 13: Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini (US) – Mother Cabrini wanted to be a missionary in China, but instead spent her life caring for the poor, orphans, and immigrants in the United States.

●● November 17: Saint Elizabeth of Hungary – Elizabeth took bread to the hungry every day. She opened a hospital to care for the poor. She died young (age 24) but accomplished much good in her short life.


TG1-34

Objective The children will recognize the importance of giving to others.

Gather in a prayer circle. Play and sing “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6).

Gathering Prayer Remain in the prayer circle. Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Invite the children to respond “Amen” to each statement: God is love. / God gives us love. / Love means that we share. / Love means that we care. / God is love.

Activity ● The Giving Game (page 2) This game is a fun way for the children to ready themselves for hearing this Sunday’s Gospel. Play in the work area. Take your time playing the game. It is an important way for children to experience what they hold dear and why.

Story ● What Can I Give? Gather the children in a story circle. Have them leave their copies of Promise at their worktables. Tell them you heard this story about three children who wanted to give away some of their possessions. Here is what happened:

When Father Martin told the children in Promise class that they could bring some of their toys for the Thanksgiving collection at church, Marcy and Michael and Malay were excited. Marcy went home and looked at all the toys in her room. She couldn’t decide if she should give the Candy Land game, or her castle, or Raggedy Ann. “I know,” said Marcy. “I will give my doll who has her own high chair. That will be a really special gift.”

Michael went to his room and got out all the pieces of his farm set. He had sheep and cows and pigs, a tractor and a barn, and lots of other pieces. “I know,” said Michael. “I have a lot of farm animals. I will give one of every animal. One sheep, one pig, one cow, and one pony.”

Malay went home to talk to Little Bear Blue, her only stuffed animal friend. “I love you, Bear Blue,” Malay said, “but some little girl has never had a friend like you. You can go to the Thanksgiving collection. You can make someone else happy.”

Ask: Which child probably found it easiest to give something away? Which child probably found it hardest? Take plenty of time with this discussion. Its purpose is to help the children understand it is usually harder to give away or share the only thing you have than it is to give away or share one among many things. Conclude the discussion by asking each child which of his or her toys is easiest and hardest to share with a brother or sister or another child.

Activity ● Stretch and Relax Quietly lead the children through this relaxation exercise. Children stand with hands at their sides, at ease. They raise their elbows slowly, then stretch their arms straight up, making fists. Gradually, they gently release their fists and stretch their fingers, reaching for apples on the highest branch of the tree. Gradually, they go up on their tiptoes. Gradually reverse the process until they are again standing gently at rest.

Objective The children will consider what makes a gift important.

Invite the children to bring pages 1–2 of Promise to the Gospel area. Play and sing “Gospel Acclamation” (CD-2, #24).

Sunday Gospel ● Every gift is important. (page 1) Direct the children to look at the cover illustration. Ask: Who do you see in this picture? Where might these people be? Explain that they are in the Temple, the holiest place for Jews like Jesus. Ask: What do you think Jesus is saying to his friends about the woman? Tell them they will find out as they listen to this Gospel story:

Jesus was sitting in the Temple near the offering box and watching people put in their gifts. He noticed that many rich people were giving a lot of money. A poor widow came up and put in two coins that were worth only a few pennies.

Jesus told his disciples to gather around him. Then he said, “This poor widow has put in more than all the others. Everyone else gave their extra money. But she is very poor and gave everything she had to live on.”

Ask: What gifts can you give to God? Love, attention, prayer, kindness to others, obedience to parents. Ask: When do we give to God at Mass? Offertory collection. Ask: How are our gifts presented to the priest (and God through the priest)? Offertory procession. Ask: What is presented along with our gifts of money? Bread and wine that will become Jesus’ Body and Blood.

Activity ● Gospel Creative Drama Invite the children to tell the Gospel story in creative drama to help their comprehension.

Share Experiences



November 11, 2018 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time


Every gift is important.

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November 11, 2018 • 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

What the Church Believes and Teaches God’s Promise to Noah (page 10)

Help the children find page 10 in their Catechism handbooks. Ask: Who knows the story of Noah and the ark? Allow them to tell what they know. Read the story of Noah from a children’s Bible or picture book. Don’t let them get stuck on God destroying everything. Emphasize that God took care of Noah and his family because Noah believed and trusted God.

Invite the children to act out the story of Noah. They can accompany the parade of animals to the tune of “The Ants Go Marching,” changing the names of the animals as they go marching two by two. You can find the words and melody for “The Ants Go Marching” at many websites, including: https://kids.niehs.nih.gov/games/songs/childrens/ants-go-marching/.

Read together the top of page 10. Emphasize God’s words to Noah (and all people): “I will always take care of you.” Children know that we still have floods and other natural disasters. They may know someone who has suffered the ravages of a flood or hurricane. Don’t let them think that this was a punishment from God. Gently help them understand that God didn’t say there would never be another flood, rather that no flood would ever again destroy the whole world. God cares about each creature and wants everyone to be saved. Even if people die through a natural disaster, God will take those who are faithful to him to happiness in Heaven.

Give the children time to complete the activity. Then ask: How does God care for people? For animals? For the earth? Challenge the children to come up with one example for each band of the rainbow.



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Objective The children will prepare gift certificates for family members.

Activity ● I Can Give (pages 3–4) Discuss the meaning of gift certificates. Ask: Do gifts always have to cost money? What kind of gifts can children give that don’t cost anything?

Distribute scissors and pages 3–4 of Promise. Direct the children to cut out the gift certificate slips. On the back of each one, invite them to draw or write a way they want to give to someone. Help them fold the “I Can Give” envelope to bring the two parts of the heart together. Staple, glue, or tape each envelope where marked. Have the children sign the gift certificates, place them in the envelope, and take them home.

Closing Prayer Gather the children in a prayer circle. You will be sharing an adaptation of Psalm 148 with the children. First, introduce the concept by writing the word psalm on the board. The children may have heard the music minister at Mass announce the Responsorial Psalm. Psalms are song prayers that people wrote a long time ago before Jesus was born. Show the children the Book of Psalms in the Bible. Find Psalm 148.

Lead the children in this simple adaptation of Psalm 148. After you read each line, the children respond, “Praise God!”

Sun and moon… / Snow and rain… / Mountains and forests… / Flowers and fruits… / Jungle animals and farm animals… / Birds and crawling things… / Girls and boys… / Everyone and everything… / Amen.

Close your prayer and gathering by singing “God’s Love Is…” (CD-2, #6).

Live the Gospel

2018–2019 Scope and Sequence Grades K & 1 2018-2019 SCOPE AND SEQUENCE

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LITURGICAL YEAR DOCTRINAL CONTENTDate/Sunday SundayGospels Creed Sacraments&Liturgy LifeinChrist ChristianPrayer

We celebrate the Eucharist


Belonging to Jesus’ family

Christian community

The Church is a servant Church

Creed

Praying the Lord’s Prayer at the Eucharist

Offering gifts at the Eucharist

Praising God as Creator

Eucharist is a thanksgiving celebration

Celebrating Advent

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe; Advent

Celebrating Advent

Celebrating Mary, Mother of God; Advent

Christmas story; Epiphany story

Baptism

Jesus’ teachings are in the Gospels

Reading from the Bible at Mass

Liturgy of the Word

Jesus’ followers are in the Church

Jesus unites us in community

Reconciliation

Eucharist

Observing Lent

Observing Lent

Reconciliation

Reconciliation

Reconciliation

Holy Week liturgies

Sunday Eucharist; Sign of Peace

Eucharist

Gathering for Sunday Eucharist

Being a follower of Jesus


Following Jesus as a family

Sharing with others

Following Jesus by helping others

Appreciating Creation and our senses; Saint Francis of Assisi


Sharing with others

Experiencing and accepting feelings

Experiencing and expressing gratitude

Doing loving actions

Preparing church and home for Christmas

Celebrating birthdays and Jesus’ birthday

Welcoming others

Giving gifts of oneself

Baptized into Jesus’ family

Acting in loving ways

Being a good neighbor

Handling conflicts

Including others

Expressing feelings

Forgiving and being forgiven

Doing loving actions

Making loving choices

Changing and growing

Growing; getting second chances

Asking forgiveness

Blaming; feelings about being fair and unfair

Death and new life

Celebrating new life; spring and Easter

Celebrating that Jesus lives in us

Following good leaders; caring for others

Singing our prayer


The Sign of the Cross

Prayer about sharing



The Lord’s Prayer

Psalm 148

Praying always

Thanksgiving prayer to Christ the King

Advent table prayer

Hail Mary

Advent prayer

Hail Mary

Prayer of thanks for Jesus

Sign of the Cross with holy water

Prayer of thanks for families

Prayer of thanks for neighbors

Forgiveness prayer

Prayer of thanks for our bodies and senses

Prayer of happiness

Prayer for forgiveness


Lent prayer book

Prayers of petition and thanks

Praising God for Creation



Welcome Jesus into our hearts

Alleluia; peace prayer


Psalm 23

September 23, 201825th Sunday Ordinary

September 30, 201826th Sunday Ordinary

October 7, 201827th Sunday Ordinary






November 18, 2018 33rd Sunday Ordinary

November 25, 2018 Feast of Christ the King

December 2, 2018 1st Sunday of Advent

December 9, 2018 2nd Sunday of Advent

December 16, 2018 3rd Sunday of Advent

December 23, 2018 4th Sunday of Advent

December 25, 2018 & January 6, 2019 Christmas & Epiphany

January 13, 2019 Baptism of the Lord

January 20, 2019 2nd Sunday Ordinary

January 27, 2019 3rd Sunday Ordinary

February 3, 2019 4th Sunday Ordinary




March 3, 20198th Sunday Ordinary

March 10, 2019 1st Sunday of Lent

March 17, 2019 2nd Sunday of Lent

March 24, 2019 3rd Sunday of Lent

March 31, 2019 4th Sunday of Lent

April 7, 20195th Sunday of Lent

April 14, 2019Palm/Passion Sunday

April 21 & 28, 2019Easter Sunday &2nd Sunday of Easter

May 5, 20193rd Sunday of Easter

May 12, 20194th Sunday of Easter






Mark 10:46–52 Jesus Cures the Blind Man

Mark 12:28b–34Jesus’ Great Commandment


Mark 13:24–32Jesus Will Come Again

John 18:33b–37 Jesus Is King

Luke 21:25–28, 34–36 Preparing for Jesus’ Coming

Luke 3:1–6 Jesus Will Come Among Us

Luke 3:10–18 John the Baptist

Luke 1:39–45 The Visitation

Luke 2:1–14 Christmas Matthew 2:1–12 Epiphany

Luke 3:15–16, 21–22 Jesus Is Baptized

John 2:1–11 The Wedding at Cana

Luke 1:1–4; 4:14–21 Jesus’ Is God’s Anointed

Luke 4:21–30 Jesus Fulfills Prophecies

Luke 5:1–11 Jesus Calls Disciples

Luke 6:17, 20–26The Beatitudes

Luke 6:27–38Jesus Teaches Mercy

Luke 6:39–45A Tree Is Known by Its Fruit

Luke 4:1–13 Jesus Faces Temptation

Luke 9:28b–36 The Transfiguration

Luke 13:1–9 God Gives New Chances

Luke 15:1–3, 11–32 God Is a Forgiving Father

John 8:1–11 Jesus Brings Forgiveness

Luke 22:14—23:56 Jesus Pours Out His Life

John 20:1–9 & John 20:19–31 Jesus Is Risen

John 21:1–14 Jesus Appears to His Friends

John 10:27–30 Jesus Is the Good Shepherd

The topics included in this Scope and Sequence chart are subject to minor changes, which will be reflected in the Teaching Guides throughout the catechetical year.

We are Jesus’ followers (#1692)




Jesus gives himself for us (#620)


Jesus’ Great Commandment (#2055)


Jesus will come again (#681–682)

God’s kingdom will come (#1060)

Jesus will come again (#681–682)

The Holy Spirit speaks in John the Baptist (#717–720)

The Holy Spirit speaks in John the Baptist (#717–720)

Mary is the Mother of God (#509, 744)

God becomes incarnate (#479, 483) & Jesus comes for all (#528)

Jesus is God’s Son and servant (#536)

Jesus’ signs reveal God (#547–548)

Jesus is God’s Anointed (#695, 714)

Jesus fulfills the prophecies (#713, 727)

The Church is apostolic (#857, 869)

God desires our happiness (#1718, 1725)

Jesus reveals God’s mercy (#211, 545)

God calls us to be fruitful (#1050, 2005)

Jesus faces temptation (#538, 540, 566)

Transfiguration prefigures Jesus’ Resurrection (#554–556)

Grace is God’s gift to us (#153, 2028)

God loves and forgives us (#1490)

Jesus forgives sin (#594, 1493)

Jesus gives his life for us (#620, 629)

Jesus is Risen (#656, 658)

The Church continues Jesus’ mission (#849, 869)

Christ laid down his life for us (#754)

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Grades K, 1

grades k, 1 unit 1: we walk in the footsteps of jesus

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