10 Challenges for the Church of the Twenty-First Century
How can you help teens have handle on some of the large issues facing the Church today while also considering ways to participate in some solutions for change? Share with them these 10 Challenges for the Church of the Twenty-First Century.
Small Group Game: The Body of Christ
This twenty-minute game is a fun icebreaker for Confirmation classes or youth groups helping teens to make a connection with the Body of Christ and the variety of gifts that make up the Church.
Teens Responding to Church Challenges
Invite students to participate in an imaginary Church Council to discuss what they consider the needs and challenges facing the Church today.
The Immaculate Conception: Making of a Catholic Belief
Some background on the declaration by Pope Pius IX of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, the Mother of God. The feast is celebrated on December 8.
Remembering the Church from Before Vatican II
Invite a person who was an adult at the time of Vatican II and who remains active in the same parish to speak to your class about his or her remembrances of the Council and the changes it brought to parish life.
The Kingdom of God Is like . . .
Have the students look up the following passages and match them to the truths about the Kingdom which they reveal.
Case Studies on the Marks of the Church
Have your students discus ways in which each case study response underscores or ignores the four marks of the Church.
The Catholic Vote
Grassroots Films, an independent company, from Brooklyn, New York has released a powerful, thought-provoking film reminding and encouraging Catholics of the power to inform their conscience and to vote their conscience.
World Youth Day 2008 Preview
The twenty-third World Youth Day begins tomorrow in Sydney, Australia.
Ecumenical Survey
Ecumenism is the spirit of love and understanding that seeks to achieve unity among Christians and the unity of all people everywhere.