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Catholic Resource & Information Service 112 Kintore Street Thebarton SA 5031
PO Box 179 Torrensville Plaza SA 5031 P:8301 6869
Spring 2012/Summer2013 Newsletter Supplement Advent - Christmas
Iveron Mother of God, Mt Athos
CONTENTS:
Advent and Christmas Resources:
Books, CDs DVDs and websites Teaching Advent and Christmas
Prayer and meditation for Advent and Christmas
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY DATES:
CLOSED:
20th December 2012 – 20th January 2013
REOPENING: Monday 21st January 2013
Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long. Ps 25:1-2,4-5
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.
Annotated Bibliography of selected Advent and Christmas Resources held at CRIS
Daybreaks: Daily reflections for Advent and Christmas by Ronald Rolheiser (Liguori Press) 2005. 242.33/ROL Daybreaks is a journey through the seasons of Advent and Christmas. Ronald Rolheiser guides the journey with searching insights and daily reflections on the mystery of the Incarnation. He notes that the season of Advent is a time to get in touch with our longing, and desire in this waiting for the coming of Christ. Rolheiser says we spend 98 per cent of our lives waiting for something else to happen to us and rarely do we find ourselves in what
Henri Nouwen called a fully pregnant moment where we are happy where we are right now. This small book of daily reflections starting on the first Sunday of Advent and finishing with Epiphany presents us with a wealth of anecdotes for reflection and meditation. Ron Rolheiser, OMI Speaker, Columnist, Author
The first Christmas: What the Gospels really teach about Jesus’s birth by Marcus J Borg & John Dominic Crossan (HarperOne Press) 2007. 232.921/BOR Marcus Borg and John Crossan set the nativity stories and their meanings in their first century context historically and, secondly, focus their meanings for Christians in the light of contemporary theology and understanding. The book is divided into three parts. Part I entitled Parable, Overture and Context looks at the stories of the First Christmas, parables and the context of the Christmas stories. Part II focuses on the Genealogy, Conception and Birth and
outlines genealogy as destiny, the visit of Gabriel to Mary and David’s city of Bethlehem. Part III entitled Light, Fulfilment and Joy explores light against darkness, Jesus as the fulfilment of prophecy and joy to the world. Borg and Crossan acknowledge that the stories of the first Christmas are both personal and political. They challenge the status quo of most times and places. They note that they are not concerned with the factuality of the birth stories but rather what did and do these stories mean? The stories of the first Christmas contain the gospel in miniature. The authors note that they are parabolic overtures to Matthew and Luke and run parallel to the stories of Christ’s last week- Holy Week, Good Friday and Easter. Here just as darkness sought to extinguish the light in Herod’s plot to kill Jesus, so they do at the end of his life with his execution. But their success is superficial for his crucifixion is followed by Easter glory. The first Christmas adds to our understanding of Jesus, the meaning of his birth and life what it meant for the early church and what it means for us today.
Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas by various authors including Aquinas, Bonhoeffer, Rahner, Merton, Romero, Underhill, Eckhart, Nouwen and others (Plough Pub House) 2001. 242.33/WAT This book offers reflections from the 24 November through to 7 January, the day after Epiphany . The introduction states that “the essence of Advent is expectancy [and] it is also readiness for action – watchful for every opening and willingness to risk everything for freedom and a new beginning”. The contributors of this book offer us
a guide for reflection, gratitude and readiness for action.
Conversing with God in Advent and Christmas: Praying the Sunday Mass readings with lectio divina by Stephen Binz (The Word Among Us Press) 2012. 242.33/BIN Stephen Binz writes “If you often feel like your December calendar is more of a frenzied list of details to accomplish rather than an Advent calendar of holy anticipation, you might consider taking up the practice of lectio divina during these days. If the pre-Christmas rush is not balanced by the sacred waiting of Advent, you may find yourself physically and emotionally exhausted and spiritually empty by the time Christmas arrives. Make time to pray and listen to God and his
word. As he changes your heart, you will experience the peaceful joy of the Incarnation.” This book provides practical ways for us to treasure within our hearts the word of God proclaimed in Advent and Christmas, and be transformed into people of joyful expectation.
Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from St Vincent De Paul: daily Scripture and prayers together with Saint Vincent de Paul’s own words compiled by John Rybolt (Liguori Press) 2012. 242.33/RYB In this book each day’s passage begins with the words of Saint Vincent de Paul. Next is a related excerpt from Scripture which is followed by a prayer built on the ideas from the two preceding passages. Finally, an Advent or Christmas action suggests ways to apply the messages to daily life. Because the length of Advent varies, this book includes material for twenty-eight days. The daily readings make up Part I of the book. Part II begins with Christmas Day and
contains materials for twelve days of the Christmas season. Part III proposes two optional formats for using each day as a part of a longer liturgical observance similar to Night Prayer combined with a version of the Office of Readings. The books offers ways to enrich the Advent/Christmas/Epiphany season of the liturgical year and set up a means by which individuals, families or groups can observe the true meaning of the season.
The Birth of Jesus according to the Gospels by Joseph Kelly (Liturgical Press) 2008. 232.92/KEL This book focuses on a very limited area of the Scriptures – a total of four chapters from all of the New Testament, two each from two Gospels (Matt 1-2 and Luke 1-2). Both of these four valuable chapters contain the only accounts of Jesus’ birth and scholars call them the infancy narratives. Thanks to the feast of Christmas, they are the most widely known of all New Testament passages. Kelly’s book highlights the issues facing the early Christians as the gospels were being
written, shows the difference between Matthew’s approach to an audience of Jewish converts and Luke’s writing for a primarily Gentile audience and offers an invitation to meet Jesus Christ arrived to fulfil God’s plan on earth for all people.
The Christmas Story from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke Pictures from the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Abrams Books for young readers) 2009. 755.56074/CHR This picture book offers illustrations from The Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is interesting to note that artists from the period often portrayed members of the Holy Family and other important biblical figures in European dress of the time. This helped make their works
of art immediately accessible to contemporary audiences. Plates include the Madonna and Child from the workshop of Giovanni Bellini, the Annunciation to the Shepherds by the Limbourg Brothers, The Annunciation attributed to Petrus Christus, The Arrival in Bethlehem attributed to Master I.C. among other beautiful pieces.
NEW!! Exploring Advent with Luke : Four questions for spiritual growth
by Timothy Clayton 2012/ 263.91 CLA NEW!! Rediscover Advent by Matthew Kelly 2011/ 242.332 KEL
NEW!! Holding Jesus : Reflections on Mary the Mother of God
by Alfred McBride, 2012/ 232.91 MCB Advent Storybook : 24 Stories to share before Christmas by Antonie Schneider, 2005/263.91
Books for Advent
Title Author Call No. A coming Christ in Advent : essays on the gospel narratives preparing for the Birth of Jesus
Brown, Raymond 226.206
A shoot from the stock of Jesse : Meditations for Advent Campbell, Michael 242.33 Advent & Lent activities for children: camels, carols, crosses and crowns
Kielly, Sheila 263.9
Advent and Christmas Wisdom from St Benedict Sutera, Judith 242.2 Advent and Christmas Wisdom from St. Thomas Aquinas Wisdom, Andrew Carl 242.33 Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Henri J M Nouwen Nouwen, Henri J M 242.33 Advent and Christmas with Thomas Merton Merton, Thomas 263.91 Advent and Lent activities for children : camels, carols, crosses and crowns
Kielly, Sheila 263.9
Advent is for children : Stories, activities, prayers Kelemen, Julie 263.91 Advent Readings from Iona Woodcock, Brian 264.0272 Advent Services Rogne, David G 264 Advent Storybook : 24 Stories to share before Christmas Schneider, Antonie 263.91 Before and after Christmas : activities and ideas for Advent and Epiphany
O’Neal, Debbie Trafton 263.91
Celebrating Advent & Christmas liturgies with young children
Hopper, Barbara Mary 264.0272
Child of the Light : walking through Advent & Christmas Richardson, Beth A 263.91 Classroom prayer services for the days of Advent and Lent
Costello, Gwen 264.020083
Cloth for the cradle : worship resources and readings for Advent, Christmas & Epiphany
Wild Goose Worship Group
264.0272
Cloth for the cradle : worship resources and readings for Advent, Christmas & Epiphany
Iona Community 263.91
Colourful Advent : A new way to pray when words are inadequate
Merryweather, Sheila Julian
263.91
Conversing with God in Advent and Christmas : Praying the Sunday
Binz, Stephen J 242.33
Daybreaks : Daily reflections for Advent and Christmas D'Arcy, Paula 263.91 Expecting the Unexpected : An Advent devotional guide Meeks, Blair Gilmer 263.91 Exploring Advent with Luke: questions for spiritual growth Clayton, Timothy 263.91 Jesus among us : daily advent prayers for families Costello, Gwen 263.91 Liturgies for Advent weekdays McCarthy, Flor 264.0272 My favourite Advent & Christmas activity book Erickson, Jenny 263.91 Rediscover Advent Kelly, Matthew 242.332 Sacred celebrations for Advent and Christmas Year C : Live the dream
Wintour, Rina 263.91
The Advent - Christmas book Arbogast, Joan Marie 263.91 The gospel day by day through Advent Moore, Brian 263.91 The Jesse tree : an advent activity book Thompson, Katie 242.33 The tallest candle : a story for Christmas Broadbent, Lynne 232.921 Welcome the Word : celebrating the liturgy of the Word with children. Volume one. Advent - Trinity Sunday
Brown, Joan 264.02
Teaching Advent
Title Author Call No. A Jesse Tree for Advent : Complete assemblies for juniors
Nicholls, Rachel BK 242.33
Advent and Christmas : Wisdom from St Francis of Assisi Kruse, John V BK 263.91 Advent and Christmas Activities for Families with Young Children
Rainone, Colleen D. BK 263.91
Advent and Christmas with Fulton J Sheen Bauer, Judy BK 263.91 Advent Angels : a host of stories, crafts, puzzles and things to do for the day of Advent
Doggett, Sue BK 263.91
Advent Posters POS 263.91 Advent Reflections : Come, Lord Jesus Dolan, Timothy BK 263.91 Candles & conifers : resources for All Saints' and Advent Burgess, Ruth BK 263.91 Disturbing complacency : Preparing for Christmas Bodenheim, Lisa BK 263.91 First Festivals : Christmas Rock, Lois BK 263.91 Hear my cry : a daily prayer book for Advent Burgess, Ruth BK 263.91 Learning Centers for Advent and Lent Murphy, Doris BK 263.91 Learning links to Christmas : Teacher resources for the religion class
Lighted windows : an Advent calendar for a world in waiting
Silf, Margaret BK 263.91
Mission : Christmas : Youth programs & ideas for Advent Brooks, Bryan BK 263.91 My Catholic Advent and Christmas activity book Galvin, Jennifer BK 263.91 Redeemer of the Nations, Come : An Advent Lessons & Carols
Schola Cantorum of St. Peter the Apostle
CD 783.65
The Advent Alphabet : a Christmas storybook with crafts to make for every day of Advent
Faulkner, Anne BK 263.91
The Advent Jesse Tree : devotions for children and adults to prepare for the coming of the Christ child at Christmas
Lambert, Dean Meador
BK 242.33
The complete guide to Godly play (Vol 3) Berryman, Jerome BK 268.432 The Jesse Tree : daily readings for Advent Shuman, Thom BK 263.91 The Vigil : keeping watch in the season of Advent Wright, Wendy BK 263.91 What do you want for Christmas? An advent study for adults
Moore, James BK 263.91
Advent and Christmas Meditations
Title Author Call No. Daybreaks : daily reflections for Advent and Christmas Rolheiser, Ron BK 242.33 God is in the manger : Reflections on Advent and Christmas
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich
BK 242.33
Igniting sparks of reconciliation and compassion : prayer and ritual for staff gatherings in Catholic schools today
Abbott, Margaret BK 264.02013
Joyous expectation : journeying through Advent with Mary Frisk, M Jean BK 242.332 Prepare the Way : daily meditations for Advent and Lent Liebenow, R.
Mark BK 242.332
Preparing for Christmas with Richard Rohr : Daily meditations for Advent
Rohr, Richard BK 263.91
Shine on, star of Bethlehem : a worship resource for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany
Duncan, Geoffrey BK 242.33
The essential Advent and Christmas handbook : a daily companion with a glossary of key terms
BK 242.33
Watch for the Light : readings for Advent and Christmas BK 242.33 When day is done : night time prayers through the Church year
Boyer, Mark G BK 242.33
With grateful hearts : Spiritual reflections for everyday living
BK 242.33
Yards of purple : stories for Advent Foulger, Sarah BK 242.332
Advent and Christmas CDs and music
Title Author Call No. A Festive Baroque Christmas [CD] CD 783.65 Best-Loved Carols. Tebbs, Philip and
Victoria BK 783.65
Catholic Christmas Classics Vol VIII [CD] CD 783.65 Celebrating Good News : full colour images from Turvey Abbey [CD]
CD 231.3
Christmas Music from Medieval Hungary [CD] Anonymous 4 CD 783.65 Christmas rhymes & carols ROCK, Lois BK 232.921 Christmas Star : carols for the Christmas Season [CD] Cambridge Singers
and Orchestra CD 782.281723
How far to Bethlehem? [CD kit] KEARNEY, Peter CDK 782.281723 Light from Light Vol 2 [CD] KENDZIA, Tom CD 783.65 My very first Christmas Carols [CD included] ROCK, Lois BK 782.28 O Come Rejoicing : music for Advent and Christmas [CD] CD 783.9 Prince of Peace : music for Advent and Christmas [CD kit] Schutte, Dan CDK 783.65 Redeemer of the Nations, Come : An Advent Lessons & Carols [CD]
Schola Cantorum of St. Peter the Apostle
CD 783.65
Rituals & reflections : Advent & Christmas : Year C [CD] Wintour, Rina CD 263.91 Southern Star : a ceremony of carols [CD] CD 782.28 Ten more little fingers of Christmas [CD] Hooty Toots CD 783.65 Under your star [CD ] Chinn, Andrew CD 232.9
Christmas Books
Title Author Call No. A Christmas story Wildsmith, Brian PBK 232.921 A gift for the Christ Child: a Christmas folktale. Schlafer, Linda PBK 394.268282 Away in a Manger : The Christmas Story Mackinnon,
Debbie BK 232.921
Before and after Christmas : activities and ideas for Advent and Epiphany
Oneal, Debbie Trafton
BK 263.91
Behind the scenes Christmas Box, Su BK 232.921 Caspar and the Star. Bosca, Francesca BK 232.921 Catholic Christmas Carroll, Kathleen BK 263.915 Celebrating Advent & Christmas liturgies with young children Hopper, Barbara
Mary BK 264.0272
Child of the Light : walking through Advent & Christmas Richardson, Beth A
BK 263.91
Christmas Chandler,Clare BK 394.268282 Christmas fun : My first Bible activity book Lane, Leena BK 263.91 Christmas rhymes & carols Rock, Lois BK 232.921 Christmas story : a sparkling nativity play BK 232.921 Cloth for the cradle : worship resources and readings for Advent, Christmas & Epiphany
Iona Community BK 263.91
Come and see : a Christmas story Mayper, Monica PBK 232.92 Elijah's Angel [Picture book] Rosen, Michael J PBK 263.91 Emma's Gift Idle, Molly Schaar BK 394.2 Franciscan Christmas Carroll, Kathleen BK 263.915 Granny goes to Bethlehem Weston, Kathy PBK 232.921 I can make starry things for Christmas Miller, Jocelyn PBK 745.5 I can make things for Christmas Goodings,
Christina PBK 745.5
Ituku's Christmas journey Pasquali, Elena PBK 394.2 Jesus is born Krenzer, Rolf PBK 232.921 King of Kings Hill, Susan PBK 232.921 Lion Christmas favourites for the very young [Picture book] Rock, Lois PBK 263.91 Mary's first Christmas [Picture book] Wangerin, Walter PBK 232.921 My book of Christmas Rock, Lois PBK 232.921 My favorite Advent & Christmas activity book Erickson, Jenny BK 263.91 My very first Big Christmas tales : Good King Wencelas [Big Book] PBK 263.91 Papa Panov's Special Day : a classic folk tale adapted by Leo Tolstoy
Holder, Mig PBK 394.2
Preparing the liturgical year 2 : Lent - Easter and Advent - Christmas
Eddy, Corbin BK 264.02
Ten Christmas Sheep Carlstrom, Nancy PBK 232.921 The Advent - Christmas book Arbogast, Joan
Marie BK 263.91
The Brightest star of all : Christmas stories for the family Papa, Carrie BK 242.335 The Christmas Play Bevan, Clare PBK 246.7 The Christmas Sheep and other stories. Rowlands, Avril PBK 232.921
Title Author Call No. The Christmas story Rock, Lois PBK 232.921 The Christmas Story from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke PBK 232.91 The Christmas Story : a touch and feel Christmas Treasure Book
PBK 232.921
The Christmas story with press out nativity play set Apperley, Dawn PBK 232.921 The Christmas visitor. Lussert, Anneliese PBK 232.921 The First Christmas Nolan, Allia PBK 263.91 The First Christmas Williams, Marcia PBK 232.921 The First Christmas Amery, Heather PBK 232.921 The first Christmas : Coloring and activity book Richards, Virginia Bk 232.921 The Jesse tree : an advent activity book Thompson, Katie BK 242.33 The Journey to Bethlehem. Molan, Chris PBK 232.921 The Lion Storyteller Christmas book. Hartman, Bob PBK 394.268282 The Little Donkey: a Christmas story. Scheidl, Gerda PBK 232.921 The Not - So - Wise Man Macdonald, Alan PBK 232.91 The riches and charm of Christmas Scibiorski, Alice
Emma BK 263.915
The Road to Bethlehem Wildsmith, Brian PBK 263.91 The story of Christmas French, Vivian PBK 232.921 The tallest candle : a story for Christmas Broadbent, Lynne PBK 232.921 The Wonder of Christmas [Picture book] Mackall, Dandi
Daley PBK 232.921
Three Wise Women Hoffman, Mary PBK 232.921 Welcome the word : celebrating the liturgy of the Word with children. Volume one. Advent - Trinity Sunday
Brown, Joan BK 264.02
Christmas stories, customs,
craft, poetry and drama
Title Author Call No. A long wait for a Messiah and 5 other dramas for tweens Lee, Nate BK 246.7 A stocking for Jesus Arruda, Suzanne
Middendorf PBK 394.2
Advent & Christmas Activities for Families with Young Children Rainone, Colleen BK 263.91 Approaching Christmas Williams, Jane BK 263.91 Baboushka: A traditional Russian folk tale. Scholey, Arthur PBK 394.2 Celebrations make & do : craft ideas which bring the festivals to life
Chapman, Gillian BK 745.5
Christmas Celebrations Wintour, Rina BK 246.7 Christmas Keepsake : a treasury of best- loved stories and more
PBK 394.2
Christmas Make & Do : craft ideas inspired by the story of the first Christmas
Chapman, Gillian BK 263.91
Christmas nativities and stories : the Christmas story told in a most unusual way with nativity scenes, poems and stories from all over the world
Van Mullekom-Cserep
BK 232.92
Title Author Call No. Christmas promise : easy dramas, speeches and reflections for children
BK 263.91
Christmas wrapped up! BK 263.91 Clueless Christmas : drama 7 puppet plays for the Christmas season
Clark, Paul BK 822.4
Don't miss the bus and 5 other dramas for tweens Lee, Nate BK 246.7 Easy ways to Christmas plays Howie, Vicki BK 246.7 First Festivals : Christmas Rock, Lois BK 263.91 Hay & stardust : resources for Christmas to Candlemas Burgess, Ruth BK 263.91 I can make Angel things for Christmas Miller, Jocelyn BK 745.5 I can make starry things for Christmas Miller, Jocelyn BK 745.5 I can make things for Christmas Goodings, Christina BK 745.5 Learning links to Christmas : Teacher resources for the religion classroom
Ryan, Maurice BK 263.91
Lectionary-based Gospel dramas for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany
O’Connell-Roussell, Sheila
BK 246.72
Light the lamps Wild, Margaret PBK 823.3 Lion Christmas favourites : stories and prayers for the festive season
Rock, Lois BK 394.2
Michael Foreman's Christmas Treasury Foreman, Michael PBK 394.2 My Catholic Advent and Christmas activity book Galvin, Jennifer BK 263.91 My very first Christmas : Christmas stories for the very young Rock, Lois PBK 263.91 My very first Christmas playtime [Picture book] Rock, Lois PBK 263.91 Oh no, not the Nativity! : sketches through the church year Brandon, Andrew BK 246.7 Practical ways to Christmas plays Jeffs, Stephanie BK 246.7 Prayers & plays for Christmas and Holy Week Smith, Elizabeth J BK 246.7 The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey Wojciechowski,
Susan PBK 394.2
The Christmas Star : Easy Christmas dramas, speeches, and recitations for children
PBK 246.7
The greatest gift : the story of the other wise man Summers, Susan BK 263.91 The Huron Carol De Brebeuf, Jean PBK 394.2 The Jesse Tree McCaughrean,
Geraldine BK 263.91
The Lion Storyteller Christmas book : Traditional tales from around the world
Hartman, Bob PBK 394.2
The Magic Saddle Mattingley, Christobel
BK 394.2
The Shine Man : A Christmas story Quattlebaum, Mary PBK 394.2 The Star : a musical play Frawley-Mangan,
Anne PBK 246.7
The story of the other Wise man Van Dyke, Henry PBK 394.2 The tale of Three Trees Hunt, Angela Elwell PBK 813 The twelve days of Christmas Wildsmith, Brian PBK 394.2
Advent & Christmas DVDs
Title Contents
Children's Heroes Of The Bible : The New Testament
7 programs: Jesus birth and Youth. Jesus teaches and calls disciples. Jesus heals and works miracles. Jesus struggles and opponents. Jesus suffering, death and resurrection. The Apostles and the early church. Paul's ministry and trials
Discover The Church Year: DVD 1: Introducing Sacred Time DVD 2: A Year With The Lord
This resource explains the Christian understanding of time, why we celebrate the Church Year, the concept of memorial, and how our celebrations relate to our human experiences. (15 min. 2006) The Church marks time as sacred by celebrating the Church Year. Christians re-live and enter the events of Jesus, celebrated and made present in the liturgy and sacraments. The Church Year sets up a series of times with the Lord. We know there are set days, moments, occasions when he expects us.The sacred cycle of the church Year is a sign of God's time, and this time is his offer of grace to us. From Advent to Pentecost - Ordinary Time - Saint days - Colours - the origin and meaning are clearly explained. (15 min. 2006)
Go Look In The Manger
Based on a true story. Set in 1966 8 year old Ricky tries to impress his classmates. He makes then breaks a promise to his mother. Ricky discovers his mother's forgiveness.
Greatest Heroes and Legends of the Bible : The Nativity
An animated story of the Nativity with an introduction by Charlton Heston.
In God's Time : A Celebration of The Liturgical Year
DVD Contents: Six reflections incorporating melodies. Accompanying booklet contains suggestions for use in schools and parishes for each reflection. 1. Harvest Thanks 2. We remember 3. Advent - Waiting to welcome 4. Lenten reflection - Change your heart 5. Seven Last words 6. The Bells of the Angelus
Little Shepherd
In the dark of night the fields around Bethlehem are alive with expectation. Wolves have been spotted and every shepherd is nervous, including young Joel and his family. Yet what is about to happen is not expected at all. As Joel embarks upon the journey of becoming a shepherd, he is afraid of the dangers that lie ahead. But he is about to discover that he need not face these dangers alone. An unexpected surprise will lead to the revelation that God provides the answer to every fear. The timeless story of Christmas with a twist. Duration 25 mins.
Red Boots for Christmas
Alone in his shop, with no family and few friends, Hans the shoemaker has never learned the true meaning of Christmas. While he mocks the townspeople's merry preparations, Hans is visited by an angel who promises a very special gift. Hans crafts a gift to give in return - the finest pair of Red Boots ever make. Hans learns the joys of sharing and fellowship and the spirit of Christmas as he receives the ultimate gift - a gift from God.
The Animated Stories of The New Testament : The King Is Born
Interactive DVD. Uses King James and New International Versions. Includes Adventure Quiz with 3 skill levels. "Beginning with Gabriel announcing God's blessed plan for Mary, this DVD brings all the elements of this timeless story to life. Journey with Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem and witness the humble birth of our Saviour together with the shepherds. The cunning plan of King Herod does not deceive the devoted wise men, but ultimately it is the Angel who intercedes to warn Joseph and Mary to flee into Egypt."
The Candy Maker's Christmas
August the candy maker is certain that he has made the perfect Christmas present for the royal family, but an encounter teaches him that the perfect present is the gift of Jesus. August learns a lesson in love and humility as his candy can becomes a popular Christmas reminder for people throughout the world.
The First Christmas Crib : A Story of St. Francis of Assisi
On the eve of Christmas in the year 1223, Francis of Assisi, with the help of some friends, recreated the scene of Jesus' birth in a cave above Greccio, Italy. The tradition of nativity dramas was an established practice but Francis' scene contained no human figures -- just an ox and an ass standing by a hay filled manger. 12 mins.
The Mouse In The Manger
The story of Oscar the Mouse who becomes angry with his father and leaves home. In his adventures he feels a deep sense of loneliness. He enters into self-discovery within the stories of those he meets. Oscar returns home with a better understanding of himself and those around him. A story of friendship and service.
The Nativity Story
Rating PG, (violence). Includes film study guide. Her child would change the world. The Nativity Story chronicles the arduous journey of two people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, and the history-defining birth of Jesus. This dramatic and compelling story comes to life in a major motion picture. Keisha Castle-Hughes as Mary and Oscar-nominee Shoreh Aghdashloo and Oscar Isaac in supporting roles. 102 mins., 2006. The nativity story : a film study guide for Catholics by Rose Pacatte .
The Promise of Advent DVD 1: Hope & Joy DVD 2: Making Memories
Advent…the beginning of the Church Year. A time to prepare for the coming of Jesus. The Promise of Advent - the love of God who became a child in Bethlehem and who continues to come into our hearts year after year. God's love - the basis for the world's hope and joy. Advent a sacred time of customs and traditions, bringing us together, making memories and connecting us with our faith. (15 min. each. Year: 200?)
The Star of Christmas Big Idea's Veggie Tales.
Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber appear as Cavis and Millward -- based loosely on Gilbert and Sullivan. Set in 1880s London, they've written a musical to open on Christmas Eve. Cavis thinks it will "teach London how to love". But children at St. Bart's are planning a nativity play for the same evening, and they plan to feature the Star of Christmas, a religious artifact unseen by the public for decades. The Post Gazette writes a story about the nativity play and the Star, and Cavis and Millward hatch a plan to make their musical better than the children's play. In the end, they learn the true meaning of Christmas. the greatest love of all when Jesus was born!.
The Story of Jesus for children
Rated G. This is the story of Jesus as seen through the eyes of children who might have lived during the time Jesus lived on earth. Footage adapted from the film: Jesus. NTSC version. Christ the Savior is born / Dinner at Benjamin's / Fight in the stable .
The Toy That Saved Christmas
Big Idea's Veggie Tales. Mr. Nezzer's TV commercials have convinced all of Dinkletown that "Christmas is when you get stuff!" With the children whining and begging for more toys, it's sure to be the worst Christmas ever ... until one brave little Buzz-Saw Louie doll decides to take matters into his own hands! The Toy That Saved Christmas teaches children that "Christmas isn't about getting, it's about giving." Computer animated series for junior and middle primary.
The Wonder of Christmas : DVD 1: The Christmas Story DVD 2: The Meaning of Christmas
Christmas – a time of wonder and hope. These joyful films capture the heart and the spirit of Christmas – the story, and the significance, how we celebrate and what it means for us today. Madeline Powell films.
Three Christmas Classics : Christmas Is The City that forgot about Christmas The Stableboy's Christmas
Christmas Is (22mins) An animated classic about Benji, a disappointed little boy who must play the second shepherd in the school play-again. Disappointment turns to joy when a daydream transports him and his lovable pooch, Waldo, back to the first Christmas. There the second shepherd shares with them the angels' message--that Jesus is born in Bethlehem! (2002) The City that forgot about Christmas (22 mins) The story of a woodcarver who lived in a village that had forgotten about Christmas. When he taught the children of the town about the birth of Jesus, the uncaring village was filled with the joy of Christ. This animated favourite features the voices of Sebastian Cabot, Charles Nelson Reilly, and Louis Nye. (2002) The Stableboy's Christmas (27 mins) This award-winning dramatic special finds 10-year-old Tammy travelling back in time to the first Christmas in Bethlehem and witnessing the little stableboy's act of unselfish love when he gives the Christ child his pet lamb. Tammy then realizes how sharing presents with others is a way of sharing God's love at Christmas. (2002)
A Child Is Born: A Christmas Film
A film that celebrates God's great love for us in the gift of Jesus, and the hope for a better world that comes with the birth of every child, in every corner of the world. It highlights the importance of every life that is lived as a gift for others. A John Powell film.
Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem
Websites for Christmas and Advent Most are suitable for teacher or student background.
An overview of Advent as a season of preparation http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/adprep.html Advent the period of four weeks before Christmas. It is a time of preparation, waiting and hope. This site explores some of the many Advent customs and offers prayers and weekly meditations in preparation for Christmas. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6:
Prayers and Customs of Advent and Christmas
http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/index.html Christmas and Advent can be a spiritual feast for those who live these seasons spiritually. And where better to live them spiritually than in our own homes and households? The purpose of this site is to help families and households celebrate Advent and Christmas in a Christian way. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6:
The History of Christmas
http://www.holidays.net/christmas/story.htm A site offering a descriptive history of Christmas traditions, customs and Christian celebration of Christmas. Suitable for : 5 – 8:
Christmas in Cyberspace
http://www.njwebworks.net/christmas/ This site is designed to illuminate the true meaning of Christmas. To provide a strictly spiritual alternative to the commercialisation of one of our faiths most sacred times. Christmas In CyberSpace provides the Christian perspective that God demonstrated his love for us by entering our world under the most humble of circumstances. Suitable for : 5 – 6
Advent prayers for young children
http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/child/adv.html This site contains a series of simple prayers for Advent prepared by the Passionist Fathers. Suitable for : K -- 4:
The Story of Saint Nicholas
http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/child/nick.html The re-telling of the life of St Nicholas. A very simple little piece, easily accessible. Suitable for student background. Suitable for : K – 4
Advent Calendar
http://www.smmp.com/Advent/Advent.htm This Advent calendar will delight children. It is a cyberversion of the Advent Calendars that children love. It is constructed in such a way as not to allow any peeking ahead (encouraging a daily return!). Suitable for student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6:
Advent Calendar
http://www.culham.ac.uk/advent2000/index.html This is another online Advent Calendar. While the heading 'Advent 2000' is confusing it tries to connect the Christian message to many seasonal activities. This site does not draw significantly on the scriptural passages for Advent. The music is often more Christmas than Advent. Suitable for student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6:
The Twelve Days of Christmas : A Catechism Song
http://www.cin.org/twelvday.html The Twelve Days of Christmas was written in England as one of the catechism songs to help young Catholics learn the tenets of their faith - a memory aid, when to be caught with anything in *writing* indicating adherence to the Catholic faith could lead to punishment or death. Suitable for : 5 – 8:
A Child is born
http://www.ewtn.com/gallery/exhibit/child/index.htm This splendid collection of images about the birth of Jesus could be very effectively used, with a live connection and a data projector, as part of a class liturgy. Suitable for : K – 12:
Prayers for Advent
http://www.cyberfaith.com/weblinks/ia_advent.html Some suggestions as to how to go about the inclusion of online material in lessons on Advent by Dorothy Werner, retired Director of Religious Education, Archdiocese of Washington, DC. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K– 4:
What Color Is the Season?
http://www.cyberfaith.com/weblinks/ia_seasons.html In these online activities children are introduced to the seasons of the Church’s liturgical year. They learn about the significance of each season and the colors used during each season. Suitable for teacher background. Suitable for student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K - 2:
Come, Lord Jesus, Come (An Advent Activity) http://www.cyberfaith.com/weblinks/ia_comelordjesus.html Activities included in this site are: 1. Learning what Advent is; 2. Studying a short history of Advent; 3. Seeing what liturgical colours are used during Advent and learn their significance; 4. Learning about the Advent wreath - the significance of the colors, the candles, the circle, and the evergreens; 5. Learning about Advent and pre-Christmas customs of different countries; 6. Making a classroom Advent calendar or use an online calendar to count down the days of Advent. The web-site links are high quality and could be very helpful for teachers and students. Suitable for teacher and student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : 3 – 6:
St Nicholas http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=23 This ecumenical site, subtitled - Discovering the truth about Santa Claus - is perhaps the best resource around for teachers and parents wanting to put the Santa myth in perspective. There is a lot to be learned here, including the origin of the balls placed on Christmas trees, which represent the gold given to provide dowries for impoverished maidens. Resources include a special children's section with stories and interactive media. Rediscovering the real figure of St Nicholas can be a helpful antidote to the commercialism of the season. Suitable for teacher and student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 8
Interactive Advent Calendar -
http://www.beliefnet.com/index/index_10055.html This calendar is designed to focus a child's interest on the coming of Christ, culminating in the story of the Nativity on 25 December. Previews by the teacher before using would ensure that material is suitable for student use, as some is more appropriate for teacher background. The opening of the calendar at breakfast each day reveals a story or anecdote associated with the Christian celebration of Christmas. It includes information about telescopes and cosmology and an activity to make a Christmas star. The coding behind the calendar prevents users from peeking at stories from the days ahead. Suitable for teacher and student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : 5 – 12:
Advent FAQs
http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/Advent/faqs.asp Interesting FAQ's such as: What is Advent? Who established Advent? What is the Advent wreath? Why is the rose-colored candle lit on the third Sunday of Advent? etc. Suitable for teacher and student background. Suitable for : 5 – 8:
Christmas FAQs
http://www.americancatholic.org/features/christmas/faqs.asp Interesting FAQ's such as: Which other saints are celebrated during this time? Was St. Nicholas real? When are the 12 days of Christmas? What is “Little Christmas”? What are the names of the three kings? Suitable for teacher and student background. Suitable for : 5 – 8:
Christmas: a multicultural festival
http://www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au/articles/christmas/ At this site from the Australian Government's Culture and Recreation Portal, you can find out more about Christmas as a multi-faceted festival in a multicultural society, its origins, its traditions, and its future and how Australians celebrate Christmas. The site should not be relied upon for exploring the Christian understanding of Christmas in any depth. The art links are very good and could form the basis of meaningful classroom discussion and activities. Suitable for teacher background. Suitable for student background. Suitable for : 5 – 8:
The History of Christmas - Watch and Listen
http://www.history.com/topics/christmas The History of Christmas - Watch and Listen - This site contains some videos excerpts from the history channel about Christmas (so you will need broadband and have some very short ads). However, it includes a five minute video on the background to the tradition of Christmas, a clip on the Christmas truce during World War One and Frank Borman's Christmas message from the moon. The rest of the site is worth looking at as well. Suitable for teacher and student background. Suitable for : 7– 10:
Blessings and best wishes
Susan and Mary
St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church, San Diego.
