Web viewPRAYERS AND ACTIVITIES FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK. SECONDARY SCHOOLS. Catholic Education Week 2017: Walking Forward Together. Introduction. Each

SECONDARY SCHOOLS

PRAYERS AND ACTIVITIES FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK

Catholic Education Week 2017: Walking Forward Together

Introduction

Each year, the Catholic community of Ontario engages in a week-long celebration of the unique identity and distinctive contributions of Catholic education during Catholic Education Week. This year’s celebration is entitled, “Catholic Education: Walking Forward Together” and will be held during the week of April 30 – May 5, 2017. The overall scriptural theme is “Do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with your God” –Micah 6:8.

The five sub-themes for Catholic Education: Walking Forward Together are:

Monday: Walking Forward Together with GodAller de l’avant avec Dieu

Tuesday: Walking Forward Together with Our FamiliesAller de l’avant avec nos familles

Wednesday: Walking Forward Together with OthersAller de l’avant les autres

Thursday: Walking Forward Together with CreationAller de l’avant avec la création

Friday: Walking Forward Together in HopeAller de l’avant dans l’espérance

The purpose of the Secondary School Resource Kit is to provide opportunities for students to engage in meaningful activities and reflections to deepen their awareness and understanding of both the gift and the responsibility of Catholic education. The Secondary Resource Kit contains:

Morning prayers Reflections on the daily gospel readings for each of the five sub-themes of CEW 2017 An outline for a secondary school retreat Movie resources related to the five sub-themes of CEW 2017 Scripture readings and quotes

Feel free to adapt any of the materials in this package to suit your school’s specific needs. Materials may be found on the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association (OCSTA) website

at: www.ocsta.on.ca. We encourage all our partners in Catholic education to reference the Elementary and Secondary Resource Kits and past years’ kits for prayers and activities that can enrich the current Secondary Resource Kit.

Sincerely,

Catholic Education Week Resource CommitteePaul BeaudetteJanet BenthamSr. Pat CarterNancy DaviePaul De VuonoAmy LaFroyStephanie MaherCindy MorganSebastien Lacroix

Catholic Education Week Partners GroupNeil MacCarthy, Archdiocese of Toronto, Director, Public Relations & CommunicationsDan Smith, Archdiocese of Toronto, Liaison for Catholic EducationKris Dmytrenko, Archdiocese of Toronto, Communications CoordinatorCarole Allen, Friends & Advocates for Catholic Education, Project ManagerRoger Lawler, Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario, General SecretaryLuke Stocking, Catholic Development & PeaceNicolas Bottger, Ontario Student Trustees’ Association, PresidentManuela Zapata, Ontario Student Trustees’ Association, Vice-PresidentMichael Caccamo, Toronto CDSB, Superintendent of EducationNick Milanetti, OCSTA, Executive DirectorSharon McMillan, OCSTA, Director of CommunicationsBrian O’Sullivan, OCSTA, Director of Catholic Education

CEW Song – Words and MusicNancy Bodsworth, Dufferin-Peel CDSB

“Do justice, love, kindness and walk humbly with your God.”

http://www.ocsta.on.ca/

-Micah 6:8

CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEKAPRIL 30 – MAY 5, 2017

WWW.GOODNEWSFORALL.CA

CATHOLIC EDUCATION: WALKING FORWARD TOGETHERSECONDARY SCHOOL RESOURCE KIT

Table of Contents

1. Morning prayers

2. Further reflection on the daily gospel readings for each of the five sub-themes of Catholic Education Week 2017

3. An outline for a secondary school retreat

4. Movie resources related to the five sub-themes of Catholic Education Week 2017

5. Scripture readings and quotes for student use related to the five sub-themes of Catholic Education Week 2017

Morning Prayers, Scripture Analysis andReflection Questions

StudentsYou are a most significant educational influence on each other.

We invite you to become active participants in the process of Catholic education. We urge you to bring your energy, enthusiasm and generosity to the task of building a Catholic community within your school and to shaping the vision of Catholic education. Your strengths and your weaknesses, your joys and your fears, your struggles and your longings, will be welcomed in this community. Whatever your age, you are not too young to assume responsibility with and for your fellow students. You are a most significant educational influence on each other. You can help each other become disciples of Jesus Christ, or you can hinder each other from becoming everything you are called to be. How you are with one another now will significantly influence how you will be with others as adults. The future of the church and its mission of service in the world will be yours. For this, you will need courage, self-discipline and all the love you are able to give. Take up the challenge of growing into a sense of who you are as Christians, so that you can develop the talents you have been given and bring the best of yourself to the society in which you will be living.

~Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario, This Moment of Promise

Depending on your school’s practice, these prayers can be used in a variety of ways. Some schools have daily prayer over the school intercom, while others invite prayer within the community of the classroom. Each day, schools are invited to offer their own prayers and special intentions, specific to the particular needs of their community of faith.

Each prayer emphasizes a sub-theme of Catholic Education Week. Following the daily prayers, the gospel reading is broken open in a more fulsome way. Individual classes may choose to expand upon the prayer by delving deeper into the gospel that was proclaimed. Reflection questions have been provided for personal student reflection and/or to facilitate further classroom discussion.

You may wish to select one or two individuals per homeroom class, prior to Catholic Education Week, to serve as prayer leaders each day. These students could be trained by the school’s Chaplaincy Leader to facilitate a prayer experience within the classroom. The prayer leaders could serve to deepen an understanding of some, or all, of the sub-themes by continuing the prayer begun in the morning and leading a deeper reflection, as suggested in the questions provided.

However you choose to use the prayers, scripture analyses and reflection questions, there is plenty of room to experience the gift of Catholic education. In each corner of this province, there are young people being shaped by their Catholic educational experience and walking forward together.

A Note About the Structure of the Daily Prayers

The theme for Catholic Education Week 2017: Walking Forward Together, comes from the response of the Canadian Bishops to the Truth & Reconciliation Commission on Residential Schools and the prayers reflect the call of the Catholic Bishops “to work with others towards a healthier society where just relations flourish in families and communities and where the most vulnerable are protected and valued.”~Walking Forward Together, 6

The sub-theme each day is introduced with a quotation from Scripture or one of the church documents on which the sub-themes are based.

Each day, the Call to Prayer makes the connection between the sub-theme and a significant church document or initiative from the last few years. Here are the links that are highlighted for each day:

Monday: Walking Forward Together with GodLooks back to the Year of Mercy and ahead to the call of the Canadian Bishops to Walking Forward Together.

Tuesday: Walking Forward Together with Our FamiliesHighlights the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation “Amoris Laetitia: On Love in the Family.”

Wednesday: Walking Forward Together with OthersDraws from the CCCB document, “The Doctrine of Discovery and Terra Nullius: A Catholic Response.”

Thursday: Walking Forward Together with CreationConnects with the papal encyclical, “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home.”

Friday: Walking Forward Together in HopeReflects the liturgical season of Easter in which Catholic Education Week is celebrated by recalling the Resurrection.

The Contemporary Musical Suggestions offer an artisitc way to engage the broad themes each day. Teachers may wish to look up the lyrics of each song and make connections to the Scripture passages. Songs and lyrics are easily accessed on the internet.

The Opening Prayer, addressed to Jesus, speaks with the voice of the individual student, asking for a particular grace or growth. These prayers lead into the Scripture Passage.

The Scripture Passages from Matthew’s and Luke’s Gospel provide illustrative examples through the teaching or actions of Jesus, of the various aspects of “Walking Forward Together” resresented in the sub-themes.

The Closing Prayer for each day, addressed to God, the Father of Jesus and Our Father, reflects the overall theme of the week in its source from the spiritual tradition of the First Nation, Metis and Inuit people, or from the Canadian Bishops’ annual National Day of Prayer in Solidarity with Indigenous Peoples.

These prayer liturgies are offered in the hope that they might strengthen our own faith during this special week as we celebrate Catholic Education: Walking Forward Together.

MONDAY – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH GOD

“Jesus said, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my father also. From now on, you do know him and

have seen him. Whoever has seen me, has seen the Father.’” ~John 14:6-7

CALL TO PRAYERAt the beginning of Catholic Education Week, we gather as a Pilgrim Church, walking forward together with our God on the journey of faith. The words “Walking Forward Together” come from the response of the Catholic Bishops to the Truth & Reconciliation Commission on Residential Schools, which calls us to solidarity with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples. On this journey, we are mindful of our need, both individually and communally, for forgiveness, and this serves as a good reminder to us of the Year of Mercy, which ended in late November. God’s promise of mercy is an assurance that we will never be alone on our life’s pilgrimage.

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC SUGGESTIONRather Be by PentatonixPilgrim by Enya

Let us begin with the Sign of the Cross: In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. +

OPENING PRAYERJesus, Son of God, you want me to be like you in your relationship to your heavenly Father. You are the model of what it means to walk with God. We hear in the Gospel how you encountered two travelers, who had left Jerusalem, and were sharing with each other their sorrow over the events of the past few days. You met them where they were: on the road, and in their deep disappointment, and listened to them in a way that allowed them to share their story with you. You opened their hearts to see God’s work even in the sad events they had witnessed. Help me to see God’s hand at work, and his presence with me in the hard and hurtful parts of my journey, as well as the joyful ones. I ask this grace of you through the help of your Holy Spirit. Amen. +

SCRIPTURE: Luke 24:13-27A reading from the Gospel according to Luke. Glory to you, O Lord.

Now on that same day, two of the disciples were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet, mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not seem him.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the Scriptures.

The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayers of the Faithful Reflecting the Needs of Your School

CLOSING PRAYERO Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the winds and whose breath gives life to all the world, hear me.I come before you as one of your children. I am small and weak. I need your strength and wisdom.Let me walk in beauty and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset.Make my hands respect the things you have made, my ears sharp to hear your voice.Make me wise, so that I may know the things you have taught my people, the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock.I seek strength, not to be superior to my brothers, but to be able to fight my greatest enemy: myself.Make me ever ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes, so that when life fades as a fading sunset, my spirit may come to you without shame.Amen. +~Chief Yellow Hawk of the Sioux Nation

TUESDAY – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH OUR FAMILIES

“No family drops down from heaven perfectly formed; families need constantly to grow and mature in the ability to love… Let us make this journey as families, let us keep walking

together.” ~Amoris Laetitia, #325

CALL TO PRAYERThe subtheme, “Walking Forward Together with Our Families” makes a clear and immediate connection with Pope Francis’ letter, Amoris Laetitia, which is subtitled, “On Love in the Family.” This Apostolic Exhortation recognizes the concerns from the Synods of Bishops which “allowed for an examination of the situation of families in today’s world, and thus for a broader vision and a renewed awareness of the importance of marriage and the family.” Written during the Year of Mercy, “it seeks to encourage everyone to be a sign of mercy and closeness wherever family life remains imperfect or lacks peace and joy.”

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC SUGGESTIONHome by DaughtryRemember When by Alan JacksonButterfly Kisses by Bob Carlisle


OPENING PRAYERJesus, student of the Jewish tradition, as you grew into adulthood, even within your own holy family, there was at times misunderstanding, anxiety and conflict. Yet you grew by walking forward together with Mary and Joseph, not only to the Temple in Jerusalem, but also on your journey as a family. Help me to weather the storms of change in my own family, to be faithful to the members of my first and most basic community of faith. I make this prayer through the intercession of Mary and Joseph, who nurtured you and brought you into fullness of life.Amen. +

SCRIPTURE: Luke 2:41-52A reading from the Gospel according to Luke. Glory to you, O Lord.

Now every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem but his parents did not know it. Assuming that he was in the group of travellers, they went a day’s journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. After three days, they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, “Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety.” He said to them, “Why were you searching for me? Did you know that I must be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand what he said to them. Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in devine and human favour.



CLOSING PRAYERO Great Creator, we give praise and thanks to you for our lives and for our families. Your gift to us of human community is one of your greatest blessings.We thank you for our Elders – our grandfathers and grandmothers – whose patience and wisdom guide our lives.We thank you for our fathers and mothers, who by giving their love to each other bring us into the world, nurturing and leading us.We thank you for our brothers and sisters, with whom we come to know what sharing and caring really means.We thank you for young people, whose hope for a better world, energizes and inspires us.We thank you for the little ones – the children – whose innocence and promise bring gladness and joy.O Creator, may our families always be that blessed and first community that we honour and cherish.As you continue to make all things new, may we hear your invitation – in all creation – to receive and share all that is good and true with each other.O God, we also face many challenges and crises in our lives and world. May our families continue to be the first and constant community that shows us how to live intimately and respectfully with all people, and all creation.May all Glory, Praise, Honour and Thanksgiving be shown to you, Father of all mercies and compassion, Jesus Saviour and Guardian of our souls, and Spirit of peace and communion.Amen. +~Prayer for Families, 2016 National Day of Prayer in Solidarity with Indigenous Peoples, Canadian Catholic Aboriginal Council and Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops

WEDNESDAY – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH OTHERS

“The Truth & Reconciliation Report stressed that a recognition of past wrongs ought to be accompanied by a practical commitment to heal enduring injustices.” ~The “Doctrine of

Discovery” and “Terra Nullius: A Catholic Response,” p. 3

CALL TO PRAYERAs we reach the midpoint of Catholic Education Week, the Gospel reminds us of the call to reach out to others by walking forward together with them. The word “Others” in this sub-theme is very meaningful; it encapsulates all who have been marginalized in any way, and who may be strangers to us. Amoris Laetitia, the document we focused on in yesterday’s prayers, reflects this sensibility when it says that "Dedication and concern shown to migrants and to persons with special needs alike is a sign of the Spirit," and that both are "a test of our commitment to show mercy in welcoming others and to help the vulnerable to be fully a part of our communities.”

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC SUGGESTIONLife Gets Better by Don Amero (Metis singer from Winnipeg)Colours of the Wind by Vanessa Williams


OPENING PRAYERJesus, inspirational leader, when you commissioned your followers to spread the Good News of the Kingdom by bringing peace and healing to others, you sent them out in pairs. They didn’t take much with them, but they had each other for support. Sometimes I don’t feel very well equipped to be your disciple. Help me to remember that you don’t ask me to travel this path alone; that there are always others to walk with me, and always those for whom the Gospel of Jesus Christ is really Good News. I pray this prayer in the name of your Heavenly Father whose mercy you proclaimed through all your words and actions. Amen. +

SCRIPTURE Luke 10:1-12A reading from the Gospel according to Luke. Glory to you, O Lord.

After this, the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandlas; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the labourer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you. But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this, the kingdom of God has come near.”



CLOSING PRAYERO Great Creator, we give praise and thanks to You for our lives and world. You make all things new and good, and you invite your peoples throughout creation to receive and share all that is good with each other. Thank you for how wonderfully and intimately You share Your life with us all. Likewise, we seek deepening relationships with each other and all Creation.We commit to live and work with one another – our families; our communities; all cultures, nations, and peoples – in union with Mary, all the Saints, and our Grandfathers and Grandmothers who have gone before us and inspire us. We thank Your Great Holy Spirit for the great variety of gifts and talents You give Your people, and we commit to always using Your blessings to help one another and all Creation.O God, there are many challenges in the world. We thank You for the gift of Your Son – Jesus Christ, Who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. We rely on our friendship in Jesus and the power of Your Great Spirit to help us live good and moral lives. May our journey towards deepening virtue help us to battle evil and to bring blessing to the most difficult challenges.We commit, O Creator, to share with and care for each other as You continue to do with us: with great reverence, generosity, and respect.All praise and thanks to you, O Creator, for the privilege and call to share in Your wonderful life!Amen. +~“Catholicism and Traditional Indigenous Spirituality – A Reflection on Commonalities,” National Day of Prayer in Solidarity with Indigenous Peoples, 2015

THURSDAY – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH CREATION

“The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change… Young people demand change. They wonder how anyone can claim to be building a better future without thinking of the environmental crisis and the sufferings of the excluded.”

~Laudato Si’,” #13

CALL TO PRAYERAs Amoris Laetitia clearly focuses on the family, Laudato Si’ identifies itself as “On Care for Our Common Home.” We need to walk forward together not only with others both within and beyond our families, but also with Creation itself. In its realization that environmental destruction visits itself disproportionately on the poor, and that ecological development and social development are inseparable, this letter from Pope Francis reflects a concern not only for the earth, but for families and the poor as well.

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC SUGGESTIONBe the Rain by Neil Young & Crazy HorseThe Shadows by SandelCircle of Life by Elton John


OPENING PRAYERJesus, itinerant preacher, as you walked the fields, paths and roads of your native land, you encountered the things of nature: grass, flowers, birds, fish, wheat, vines, water and earth, and you used them to teach us about the wonderful gift of God’s Creation. You ask us to savour them, but not to amass them; to see them not as ends in themselves, but as wonderful signs of God’s bountiful care for us. Teach me how to be a steward of creation; using it wisely, enjoying it fully, sharing it generously, and protecting it faithfully. In the name of the Giver of all that is good in the world. Amen. +SCRIPTURE Matthew 6:25-34A reading from the Gospel according to Matthew. Glory to you, O Lord.

Jesus said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you, by worrying, add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you – you of little faith? Therefore, do not worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.



CLOSING PRAYEROh Great Spirit, Creator of all things: human beings, trees, grass, berries,Help us, be kind to us.Let us be happy on earth.Let us lead our children to a good life and old age.These are our people; give them good minds to love one another.Oh Great Spirit, be kind to us.Give these people the favour to see green trees, green grass, flowers and berries this next spring.So we all meet again, Oh Great Spirit, we ask of you.Amen. +~Mohawk Prayer

FRIDAY – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER IN HOPE

“‘For surely I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord. ‘Plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.’” ~Jeremiah 29:11

CALL TO PRAYERAs we arrive at the end of Catholic Education Week, having travelled this journey of faith together, we look forward to walking together in hope, resting in the Easter certainty of the Risen Jesus. Ultimately, this is the Joy of the Gospel, and the foundation of Catholic Education. An interesting note about the picture above, which calls to mind the empty tomb with the stone rolled away: it is taken in the Othello Tunnels, which are situated in Hope, B.C.

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC SUGGESTIONCan’t Stop the Feeling by Justin TimberlakeEverything’s Okay by Lenka


OPENING PRAYERRisen Jesus, those same disciples who persuaded you not to continue along the road because the day was over, left immediately and walked together to Jerusalem when they realized what had happened to them, and who it was that they had encountered. Telling their amazing news couldn’t wait for morning. Grant to me the same joy of encountering you, so that my life, like theirs, will be filled with a sense of mission and purpose, and I will have a message of great value to share with others. I make this prayer in the name of your Holy Spirit. Amen. +

SCRIPTURE Luke 5:17-26A reading from the Gospel according to Luke. Glory to you, O Lord.

As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.



CLOSING PRAYERGod of Holy Dreaming, Great Creator Spirit, from the dawn of creation, you have given your children the good things of Mother Earth.You spoke and the gum tree grew.In the vast desert and the dense forest, and in the cities and at the water’s edge, creation sings your praise.Your presence endures at the rock at the heart of our Land.When Jesus hung on the tree you heard the cries of all your people and became one with your wounded ones: the convicts, the hunted, the dispossessed.The sunrise of your Son coloured the earth anew, and bathed it in glorious hope.In Jesus we have been reconciled to you, to each other and to your whole creation.Lead us on, Great Spirit, as we gather from the four corners of the earth; enable us to walk together in trust from the hurt and shame of the past into the full day which has dawned in Jesus Christ.Amen. +~Australian Aboriginal Prayer (permission to use this prayer was given by Lenore Parker)

Monday – Walking Forward Together with God

“We need to practice the art of listening, which is more than simply hearing. Listening, in communication, is an openness of heart which makes possible that closeness without which genuine spiritual encounter cannot occur. Listening helps us to find the right gesture and word which shows that we are more than simply bystanders. Only through such respectful and compassionate listening can we enter on the paths of true growth and awaken a yearning for the Christian ideal: the desire to respond fully to God’s love and to bring to fruition what he has sown in our lives.”~Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium: The Joy of the Gospel, 131

For Reflection:These words of Pope Francis are reminding us that God dwells in our lives fully lived. When we walk with God, truly listening, we are awakened to all the possibilities when we walk with God.

Scripture Reading and ReflectionRead Luke 24:13-27

This passage gives us a picture of the new reality that the followers of Jesus were facing after the crucifixion. Like we so often do in our personal lives, they could not see the touch of God in their lives in the present moment. Of course, Jesus did not look the same.

There are some key moments in the passage to consider when thinking of our own lives. Why do you think it is important that the disciples are together? What has caused them to lose hope? Jesus guides them into a new mindset. How does he do this?

Keeping this scripture passage in mind, consider the words of Pope Francis; “We need to practice the art of listening.” It is in this listening that our relationships can be improved, our relationship with God can be enhanced and our wellbeing strengthened.

Identify a time in your life when you felt your faith gave you strength.

How would you describe what faith in God can do for one’s life to another person?

Now on that same day, two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking about all the things that had happened. While they were talking, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in word and deed before God and all the people and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But, we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said he was alive. Some of those who were with us, went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Then, beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted them, the things about himself in all the scriptures.

Luke 24:13-27

What are some of the ways that you walk with God? We find peace when we are able to walk forward with God. The image of the disciples and Christ walking toward Emmaus is a great analogy for our lives. We walk in relationship with others, friends, family, the people we meet and learn about, and God walks with us.

For Further Reflection:Joe Zambon is a Christian singer-songwriter from the Toronto area. His music and lyrics illustrate the coming together of faith and life.

The disciples on the road to Emmaus were in the midst of despair and a challenging life moment. God continually walks with us.

This song by Joe Zambon speaks of how life can be challenging and how God’s presence can be a source of peace.

I Just Want Peace by Joe Zambon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLEV1GYqsDs

Now on that same day, two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking about all the things that had happened. While they were talking, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in word and deed before God and all the people and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But, we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said he was alive. Some of those who were with us, went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Then, beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted them, the things about himself in all the scriptures.

Luke 24:13-27

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLEV1GYqsDs

Now every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Assuming that he was in the group of travelers, they went a day’s journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. After three days, they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished; and his mother said to him, “Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety.” He said to them, “Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand what he said to them. The he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favour.

Luke 2:41-52

Tuesday – Walking Forward Together with Our Families

“The Gospel goes on to remind us that children are not the property of a family, but have their own lives to lead. Jesus is a model of obedience to his earthly parents, placing himself under their charge (cf. Luke 2:51), but he also shows that children’s life decisions and their Christian vocation may demand a parting for the sake of the Kingdom of God. Jesus himself, at twelve years of age, tells Mary and Joseph that he has a greater mission to accomplish apart from his earthly family. In this way, he shows the need for other, deeper bonds even within the family; “My mother and my brethren are those who hear the word of God and do it.” (Luke 8:21)~Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia: “On Love in the Family,” 18


This passage gives us a glimpse into the family of Jesus. What have we learned from the gospel that we can apply to our own family life?

In some ways, this – the only story of Jesus growing up – is a preview of his adult ministry. How does it point to the story of Jesus talking about his family as an adult cited by Pope Francis, found in Luke 8:19-21?

For Further Reflection:“The love of friendship unifies all aspects of marital life and helps family members to grow constantly. This love must be freely and generously expressed in words and acts. In the family, three words need to be used. I want to repeat this! Three words: “Please,” “Thank you” and “Sorry.” Three essential words! In our families when we are not overbearing and ask, “May I?” In our families when we are not selfish and can say, “Thank you!” And in our families when someone realizes that he or she did something wrong and is able to say “Sorry!” – our family experiences peace and joy. Let us not be stingy about using these words, but keep repeating them, day after day.”~Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia: “On Love in the Family,” 133

Describe a time when you have heard one of those three words spoken to you in your family, or used one or more of them yourself. What kind of impact did it have?

Wednesday – Walking Forward Together with Others

“As representatives of the Catholic faithful in Canada, and counting on the full collaboration of the Canadian Catholic Aboriginal Council, we appeal to all our Catholic brothers and sisters – laity, members of institutes of consecrated life and of societies of apostolic life, deacons, priests and Bishops – to make their own, the following commitments, as recommended by the Commission for Justice and Peace of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, in order to continue to walk together with Indigenous Peoples in building a more just society where their gifts and those of all people are nurtured and honoured.

1. Continue to work with Catholic educational institutions and programs of formation in learning to tell the history of Canada in a way that is truthful, ensuring proper treatment of the history and experience of Indigenous Peoples, including the experience of oppression and marginalization which resulted from the Indian Act, the Residential School system, and frequent ignoring or undermining of signed treaties.~Walking Forward Together, a response by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Residential Schools.

For Reflection:What can we do in our school communities to live out the statement by the Canadian Bishops that with regard to the residential schools, “a recognition of past wrongs ought to be accompanied by a practical commitment to heal enduring injustices?”


Why in the gospel reading, do you suppose that Jesus sent the disciples out in pairs?

What kind of response to the preaching about the kingdom of God does Jesus expect the disciples to receive?

How might this connect with the call of the Canadian Bishops to Walking Forward Together with our Indigenous brothers and sisters?

After this, the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the labourer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this – the kingdom of God has come near.’”

Luke 10:1-12

For Further Reflection: The Two-Row Wampum

In 1613, an agreement between the Haudenosaunee Nation and Dutch settlers within the area now known as New York State was recorded by the Haudenosaunee in a belt known as the Two Row Wampum. This wampum records the meaning of the agreement which declared peaceful coexistence between those two communities. The pattern of the belt consists of two rows of purple wampum beads against a background of white beads. The purple beads signify the courses of two vessels – a Haudenosaunee canoe and a European ship – traveling down the river of life together, parallel but never touching. The three white stripes denote peace and friendship.

What kind of model does this Two-Row Wampum provide for our relationships with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples?

How would our understanding of Canadian history be different if we lived out this agreement between the aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities more fully?

Thursday – Walking Forward Together with Creation

“The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change. The Creator does not abandon us; he never forsakes his loving plan or repents of having created us. Humanity still has the ability to work together in building our common home. Here I want to recognize, encourage and thank all those striving in countless ways to guarantee the protection of the home which we share. Particular appreciation is owed to those who tirelessly seek to resolve the tragic effects of environmental degradation on the lives of the world’s poorest. Young people demand change. They wonder how anyone can claim to be building a better future without thinking of the environmental crisis and the sufferings of the excluded.”~Pope Francis, Laudato Si’: “On Care for Our Common Home”, 13

For Reflection:Who are some of the people who “try to protect the home we share?” What are they doing to protect our common home?

How can we create sustainable and integral development? What change do you demand?

What are some of the environmental issues our world faces today? What can we do to fulfill Pope Francis’ appeal as stated in Laudato Si’?

Scripture Reading and ReflectionRead Matthew 6:25-34

“… your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things… So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Matthew 6:34

What are some of the things the Father has given us and we have squandered or overused or took for granted?

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you, by worrying, add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin yet I tell you, even Solomon, in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you – you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

Matthew 6:25-34

For Further Reflection: The Story of StuffView video (can be found on YouTube) entitled, “The Story of Stuff” and then discuss the effects of production and consumption on our society and compare it to the effects of production on our neighbours who live in poverty.

In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis states:

“The climate is a common good, belonging to all and meant for all. At the global level, it is a complex system linked to many of the essential conditions for human life… Humanity is called to recognize the need for changes of lifestyle, production and consumption, in order to combat this warming, or at least the human causes which produce or aggravate it.” ~Pope Francis, Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home, 23

Pope Francis’ appeal to you, as youth, is to demand change. You can ensure that change happens through your choices, through what you buy, how you live and demanding change in our socio-economic system. We are called to be the voice of the voiceless, to generate a call to action and ensure that climate belongs to all and is meant for all.

Friday – Walking Forward Together in Hope

“Faith also means believing in God, believing that he truly loves us, that he is alive, that he is mysteriously capable of intervening, that he does not abandon us and that he brings good out of evil by his power and his infinite creativity. It means believing that he marches triumphantly in history with those who ‘are called and chosen and faithful.’ (Rev. 17:14) Let us believe the gospel when it tells us that the kingdom of God is already present in this world and is growing, here and there, and in different ways; like the small seed which grows into a great tree (cf. Matthew 13:31-32), like the measure of leaven that makes the dough rise (cf. Matthew 13:33) and like the good seed that grows amid the weeds (cf. Matthew 13:24-30) and can always pleasantly surprise us. The kingdom is here, it returns, it struggles to flourish anew. Christ’s resurrection everywhere, calls forth seeds of that new world; even if they are cut back, they grow again, for the resurrection is already secretly woven into the fabric of this history, for Jesus did not rise in vain. May we never remain on the sidelines of this march of living hope!”~Evangelii Gaudium: The Joy of the Gospel, 278

For Reflection:What do you see as some of the signs of darkness that threaten our belief that God is alive and active in our world?

When have your eyes been opened to recognize new life in the midst of seeming death; to the action of God in our midst?

How can we cooperate with God in bringing good out of evil?

For Further Reflection:Make a list of items of genuine good news – signs of the resurrection – that you see in our world today.

As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” That same hour, they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

Luke 24:28-35

An Outline for a Secondary School Retreat“Do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.” ~Micah 6:8

Although these activities are designed to be delivered outside the regular school environment as a retreat, they can easily be adapted for use in the classroom. Some activities could be adapted for adult prayer time. Each of the activities should be timed to include moments of quiet reflection. Breaks should be scheduled as deemed appropriate. here are more activities here than needed for a full day retreat so you can tailor the day to meet the needs of your group.

Time required: 4-5 hours or tailored for in-class/group use.

Opening PrayerGod of unending love,we walk forward together as a Catholic school community.You invite us to come to know you more deeply.Guide us to have unity and reconciliation in our relationships in our families, among our friends and with all others.May we care for the earth and be the good stewards you intended from the beginning.Inspire our faith as we walk together in understanding and hope.This is what you desire:that we do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with you.Amen. +

Community Building ActivitiesChoose an ice-breaker or community building activity that is suitable for your group. These websites have activities that can be used by teens:

http://topten.org/content/tt.AU20.htmlhttp://wilderdom.com/games/Icebreakers.htmlhttp://humanresources.about.com/od/icebreakers/Ice Breakers Energizers and Activities.htmlhttp://www.jubed.com/youth ministry/http://www.teampedia.net/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Pagehttp://www.CreativeYouthIdeas.com

SUB-THEME 1 – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH GOD

ACTIVITY 1

Purpose: to make everyone feel welcome as they arrive at retreat.

Materials needed: nametags with each participant’s name sound systemgreeters joyful musicguides tables & chairsput welcome sign on tables with participants names/groups

Outline of activity: As participants arrive for retreat have greeters at the doors, welcoming everyone with sincere words.Have guides bring/show retreatants where to put their coats, bags, belongings and where to get their nametags.Have joyful music playing as a sign of welcome to the day.Have a seat ready for each person in groups if that will be helpful to begin. If groups will be used for the activities, place a welcome sign on the table listing the participants in the group (it lets the retreatants know: we are expecting you to be here and we have prepared a place for you).

ACTIVITY 2

Purpose: to meditate.

Materials needed: chairs of varying sizestimerprayer chimes (if available)

Outline of activity: Have chairs spaced apart so students can have their own comfort zones around them. If possible, have smaller chairs for students with shorter legs (so they are able to have their feet flat on the floor.) No instrumental music is played during this type of meditation. Silence is needed. Use the following instructions:

Leader:“We are going to experience a type of prayer called meditation. It is a very simple form of prayer. It requires a couple of things:Place your feet flat on the floor. If you are not able to put your feet flat, sit on the front of the seat so your feet can touch flat.Put your hands on your lap.We are going to close our eyes gently when we begin. I will not be closing my eyes so I can be aware if something needs attention.We are going to breathe deeply in and out and as we do so we will say silently within ourselves a word that is Aramaic (the language that Jesus spoke). The word is ‘ma-ra-na-tha.’Say it with me aloud. Ma-ra-na-tha. Four separate syllables. Ma-ra-na-tha.Repeat the word to yourself as you breathe in and out.It means Come, Lord Jesus (if you have non-Christian participants, invite them to say ‘Breathing in, Breathing out’).I will time our prayer for five minutes (twenty minutes for experienced meditators). When our prayer is completed, I will ask you to open your eyes.Try to keep your body as still as you are able.Let us begin. Repeat after me…

Be Still and Know that I am God. Be Still and Know that I am God.Be Still and Know that I am. Be Still and Know that I am.Be Still and Know. Be Still and Know.Be Still. Be Still.

Be. Be.Ma-ra-na-tha – Come, Lord Jesus.”

Ring chime three times at the beginning.

Using the timer, allow students to pray for the allotted time. When the time is completed, say, “Thank you, you may open your eyes.” Or, ring the chime three times at the end.

If students are not able to sit still for five minutes, give them a chance to settle but end the meditation if there is too much noise. If they are only able to sit for a minute, that is fine. Do not scold the students. Prayer is intended to be a time of grace and not a time of grief. Do not analyze the prayer time. Simply let it be their quiet time with God.

ACTIVITY 3 – A Walking Meditation

Purpose: to meditate while walking silently, looking for signs of God’s presence.

Materials needed: a space to walk outdoorsa labyrinth (if available)

Outline of activity: If you think it is necessary to review, ask participants before they begin to walk, what are some signs of God’s presence that they may experience outdoors (i.e. sun’s warmth, trees, flowers, etc.). Invite the students to walk silently/quietly in the outdoor space to experience God’s presence. The quieter they are, the more they will be able to experience. If something catches their attention, chances are it is important for them to notice. Almost everything in the created world can bring us to an appreciation of God’s presence. Once the students have walked, invite them to share with each other if they had an ‘ah-ha moment’ during their walk. Explain that people have gone on pilgrimages throughout history to have this very kind of experience. People today walk across the top of Spain for a pilgrimage or the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. Some walk for days and some walk for months. Some walk alone, some walk in groups. There are other faith traditions that have pilgrimages too. The Hajj is a Muslim pilgrimage in Mecca. Thousands descend upon Mecca during the holy season.

If a labyrinth is available, invite students to walk silently and to be aware of how the Spirit moves in them as they make their way through to the centre. Once at the centre, invite the students to say a special prayer to God. Their prayer may simply be “Thank you.” Depending on how many students you have, you may have some walking along a path and some walking in the labyrinth. It can’t be too crowded in the labyrinth otherwise it becomes chaotic and less prayerful.

ACTIVITY 4

Purpose: to have an honest conversation with God.

Materials needed: script belowcandle burning to create an atmosphere of prayerjournal paper and pencils for students who may find it easier to journal

their conversation

Outline of activity: Use script to introduce activity. Invite participants to journal or simply to pray. Participants may want to sit on the floor or lie down to be more relaxed.

Script:God has a 1-800 number and also answers 911 calls. When you call God, you never get a busy signal, you are never put on hold, and you never hear an answering machine say, “This is God. I’m not in my office now…” We are inviting you to have an honest conversation with God… Imagine that you are calling heaven and God is going to answer. What would you talk to God about at this point in your life? What do you think God would say to you? You can journal this conversation on paper or just imagine it in your mind. We will do a breathing exercise to get us started…

Gently close your eyes…Be comfortable…relaxed…Take a deep, silent breath and settle yourself.Breathe in… and breathe out.Fill your lungs with air, hold it… then let it leave your body.Breathe in all that is good and… breathe out all that is not good.As you breathe deeply let your body relax and be calm.

Begin your conversation with God. Imagine you are calling God on your phone. What do you think God would say to you? What do you want to talk to God about today?

Adapted idea from Leading Students Into Prayer – Ideas and Suggestions from A to Z by Mary Kathleen Glavich, SND, page 23

SUB-THEME 2 – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH OUR FAMILIES

ACTIVITY 5

Purpose: to know how much our families love us (and God too).

Materials needed: a letter from participants’ parents in enclosed envelope (see sample letter to parents attached at the end of all activities)

a quiet place to read letter with lots of room for each participantKleenex

Outline of activity: Explain that you have a letter from family members of each participant. Ask them to wait until everyone has received their letter to open it. Ask them to read the letter to themselves. Once everyone has read their letter ask them if they can imagine that Jesus wanted their parents to send this message to them today.

To instruct parents about their letters:Please write a letter to your child to express how much you love them. We will be on retreat when we receive these letters. Let them know how they have grown up, how they make you proud, how they still need to grow. Ask the parents to keep the letters a secret until the students’ retreat is over. High school years can be a struggle for teens and parents as teens struggle to have autonomy and parents care and can be fearful that teen will be hurt or take risks. When parents put their love into words in a letter, teens can value it because it is on paper. If you don’t think you will get a letter from every parent, a letter from an older brother or sister, a grandparent, aunt or uncle can be as valuable.

If you choose to do this activity, you may need Kleenex.

Adapted idea from Leading Students into Prayer – Ideas and Suggestions from A to Z by Mary Kathleen Glavich, SND, page 124

ACTIVITY 6

Purpose: to experience a personal witness talk from a refugee.

Materials needed: a refugee willing to share a story of their walk from their home country to Canada

Outline of activity: Invite a refugee who has come from their home country to Canada to share their story of how they made their way. Many refugees have to walk a long way to get to safety, away from harm. They may not feel free to share traumatic events of the walk, but sharing their story will help our students to appreciate their families and the life they have in Canada, which we can take for granted.

ACTIVITY 7

Purpose: to learn the deeper meaning of the parable of the prodigal son/loving father.

Materials needed: children’s lectionary version of the parable (one provided below)props (see list below; adapt as needed)

If possible, have group leaders or older students dramatize the parable. Props ought to be simple, just to bring the story to life.

Note to teacher: when dramatizing this parable, please contextualize it to assist students to make meaningful connections; for example, the Father represents God and both sons represent the different responses that we can have to God’s great love for us.

Directions:Most students should recognize the story of the Prodigal Son. You may want to practice the skit before the retreat day so the students have an idea of what to do and where to go.

Narrator: should have a special book with the script inside (can be the teacher)Father: two bags with gold coins/monopoly money in a walletSon that stays: child with glasses and reading a book – well behavedSon that leaves: child with attitude, duffle bag stuffed with belongings, long sleeves that hide

tattoos (when he becomes poor, he takes off this long sleeved shirt to reveal his tattoos)Farmer: overalls, straw hat and a shovelPigs: stuffed animalsServant 1: leather coat – or a coat that kids would think is the bestServant 2: big ring and sandalsServant 3: platter with fake meat on it, maybe potatoes and carrots

The Children’s Lectionary Version of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)There was a man who had two sons.The younger son said to his father,

“Give me my half of all the family property –all that would be mine after you die.”

So the father divided everything he ownedbetween his two sons.A few days later,the younger son packed up all his thingsand left home to live in a faraway country.But he wasted all of his moneyliving a wild life.After he had spent everything,there was a bad famine in that countryand he became very hungrybut could not buy any food.

He went to work for a farmerwho sent him out to feed the pigs.The young man was so hungrythat he could have eaten the food the pigs ate,but no one offered him even that.

At last, he came to his senses and said to himself,“The people who work for my father have more than enough food to eat,and here I am starving to death.I will go back to my father and I will say to him,‘Father, I have sinned against God and against you;I am no longer good enough to be called your son.Treat me like one of your workers.’”

So the young man started home.But while he was still a long way off,his father saw him coming and ran out to meet him.He took his son in his arms and kissed him.

The young man said,“Father, I have sinned against God and against you.I am no longer good enough to be called your son.”

But his father said to the servants,“Quick! Bring out the best clothes and put them on him.Put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet.Get our best calf and prepare a feast.Let’s eat and celebrate because my son was deadand he has come back to life.He was lost and has been found!”

And they began to celebrate.

Debrief:How did you feel when the son asked for half of the family property? How did you feel when the son wasted all the money? How did you feel when the father welcomed his son home? What does this story teach us?

SUB-THEME 3 – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH OTHERS

ACTIVITY 8

Purpose: to pray using the Three Step Prayer that originates in the North American First Nations tradition.

Materials needed: prayerto know which direction is East (best done in the morning; outside if

possible)

Outline of activity: Have group face the East direction with enough space in front of each person that they are able to take three steps forward.

Stepping Out, Stepping In by Jose Hobday

Background information for leader: This morning offering comes from the North American First Nation tradition. It includes three steps and there is a strong emphasis on the earth, that’s why it’s best to say the prayer outside, although with a little imagination it can be done anywhere. Usually, you face the East, toward the rising sun, preferably in a spot with a vista. The size and type of steps is entirely up to you. The steps may be taken with or without words, as is customary with many First Nations rituals. But for beginners, words might be helpful.Prayer:Let us begin by standing still and centering ourselves. Breathing in… and breathing out. This is a three step prayer.

Please take a step forward.The first step is into the day ahead. The idea is that you step out and greet and accept the day and everything that will be given to you throughout the day. So we pray:“O Great Spirit, you have given me this day as a special gift. In taking this step into the day, I accept everything it will bring, whether it is part of my plan or not. Teach me to accept

every gift that comes my way today. Help me to use each gift wisely, to love my sisters and brothers, and to care for my Mother the Earth.”Breathing in… and breathing out.

Please take a step forward.The second step is into yourself. And we pray:“O Great Spirit, you have created me as I am. In taking this step, I accept myself as I am now, as I have been in the past, and as I will be in the future. I ask that today I will be true to the way you made me. Help me to walk respectfully on my Mother the Earth so none of its plants will be crushed. Help me to walk into people’s lives in the same way today so none of them will be bruised.”Breathing in… and breathing out.

Please take a third step forward.Step three is into mystery. Let us pray:“O Great Spirit, you have created me and everything around me with a sense of mystery. I now step into that mystery and put my arms around it. Help me to accept the things of this day I do not, and cannot understand, and that my encounter with them will bring me nearer to you and closer to living a holy life.”Amen. +

ACTIVITY 9

Purpose: to look at the Grandfather Teachings as part of the First Nations spirituality/culture.

Materials needed: outline of the seven Grandfather Teachings on chart papermaterials to make bookmarks: paper (pre-cut), coloured wool, hole punch,

colour in the form of pencil crayons/crayons/paint/markers/etc.

Outline of activity: This activity can be done as small groups or individually. Invite students to look at the outline below and decide which teaching they most need to grow in – these are virtues as well. Once the students have decided which one they ought to focus on, invite them to make a bookmark to remind them of the teaching.

Outline of the seven Grandfather TeachingsOjibwe Word for

“Teaching”English Word for

“Teaching”Meaning

(taken from Wikipedia)Nibwaakaawin Wisdom To cherish knowledge is to know wisdom.

Wisdom is given by the Creator to be used for the good of the people.

Zaagi’idiwin Love To know peace is to know love. Love must be unconditional. When people are weak they need love the most.

Minaadendamowin Respect To honor all creation is to have respect. All of creation should be treated with respect. You must give respect if you wish to be respected.

Aakode’ewin Bravery Bravery is to face the foe with integrity. To do what is right even when the consequences are unpleasant.

Gwayakwaadiziwin Honesty Honesty in facing a situation is to be brave. Always be honest in word and action. Be honest first with yourself, and you will more easily be able to be honest with others.

Dabaadendiziwin Humility Humility is to know yourself as a sacred part of Creation. You are equal to others, but you are not better.

Debwewin Truth Truth is to know all of these things. Speak the truth. Do not deceive yourself or others.

ACTIVITY 10

Purpose: to look at the experience of some First Nations peoples’ struggles and the Indian Residential School experience.

Materials needed: Kleenex

There are many media available for this activity. The retreatants can watch the video“The Secret Path” available on YouTube:

http://www.cbc.ca/beta/arts/secretpath/gord-downie-s-secret-path-airs-on-cbc-october-23-1.3802197

It takes 2.08 hours to see the whole thing. So you may want to show a section of it.

You can use books like:I Am Not A Number by Jenny Kay Dupuis and Kathy KacerSecret Path by Gord Downie and Jeff LemireDear Canada, These are My Words – The Residential School Diary of Violet PesheensRighting Canada’s Wrongs: Residential Schools by Melanie Florence

Speech given by Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin about Cultural genocide toward Canadian First Nations peoples:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1L2jOtJzZg

Several other videos that can be viewed about Residential Schools:

http://www.lorimer.ca/rightingcanadaswrongs/videos-rcw.html

Outline of activity: This activity can be done as small groups or one large group. All of our students ought to know about Indian Residential Schools and be part of the movement of the Truth and Reconciliation with our First Nations, Métis and Inuit brothers and sisters. Depending

on the grade and maturity level of the students on retreat, you are invited to select appropriate media input for the group. If you have FNMI students in the group, you may want to give them some forewarning that this is going to happen. They may want to be excused. Watch/listen/read about this terrible time in Canada’s history and have a discussion to help the students to process the information. You may require Kleenex.

Debrief:1. Did you know about Indian Residential schools before today?2. How would you have felt if you were taken from your family to go to school in a strange

place?3. What can we do to be reconciled to FNMI communities/peoples/students as members of

Canada today? Be kind, be understanding of the terrible treatment FNMI people have experienced in the past, learn more about this time in Canada (i.e. what life was like before contact with Europeans). What is meant by the “Sixties Scoop?” Ensure that such treatment does not happen to anyone else.

SUB-THEME 4 – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH CREATION

ACTIVITY 11

Purpose: to reflect on the creation story and our intended role.

Materials needed: the first Creation Story (as provided below); to be read in parts

Outline of activity: Have the first Creation Story read for the whole group in parts as outlined below (6 readers). Read the first Creation Story.

This form of reading helps to outline the truths of the story which are: (1) God created everything out of nothing, (2) God created all things good, (3) there was an order to how things were created, (4) God named some things and humans named some things, and (5) it took time as creation took place. (6) God did not create one type of thing but variety was God’s choice.Discuss the truth of creation – ask the retreatants: As you heard the Creation Story read, what truths did you hear? What is our role as humans in creation? What does dominion mean?

Six Days of Creation and the Sabbath

Narrator: In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters.

Voice 1: God said, “Let there be light” and there was light.Voice 2: And God saw that the light was good.Voice 3: God separated the light from the darkness.Voice 4: God called the light, “Day” and the darkness, God called “Night.”Voice 5: And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.

Voice 1: God said, “Let there be a dome in the midst of the waters and let it separate the waters from the waters.”

Voice 3: God made the dome and separated the waters that were under the dome from the waters that were above the dome. And it was so.

Voice 4: God called the dome, “Sky.”Voice 5: And there was evening and there was morning, the second day.

Voice 1: God said, “Let the waters under the sky be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear.”

Voice 3: And it was so.Voice 4: God called the dry land Earth and the waters that were gathered together, he

called Seas.Voice 2: God saw that it was good.Voice 1: God said, “Let the earth put forth vegetation: plants yielding seed and fruit

trees of every kind on earth that bear fruit with the seed in it.”Voice 3: And it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation: plants yielding seed of

every kind and trees of every kind bearing fruit with the seed in it.Voice 2: God saw that it was good.Voice 5: And there was evening and there was morning, the third day.

Voice 1: God said, “Let there be lights in the dome of the sky to separate the day from the night; and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years, and let them be lights in the dome of the sky to give light upon the earth.

Voice 3: And it was so. God made the two great lights – the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night – and the stars. God sent them in the dome of the sky to give light upon the earth, to rule over the day and over the night, and to separate the light from the darkness.

Voice 2: God saw that it was good.Voice 5: And there was evening and there was morning, the fourth day.

Voice 1: God said, “Let the waters bring forth swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the dome of the sky.”

Voice 3: God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, of every kind, and which the waters swarm, and every winged bird of every kind.

Voice 2: God saw that it was good. God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth.”

Voice 5: And there was evening and there was morning, the fifth day.

Voice 1: God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air; and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.”

Voice 3: God created humankind in God’s image, in the image of God, God created them; male and female, God created them.

Voice 2: God blessed them and God said, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth. See, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth, and to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.

Voice 3: And it was so.Voice 2: God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good.Voice 5: And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.

Narrator: Thus, the heavens and the earth were finished, and all their multitude. And on the seventh day, God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it, because on it God rested from all the work that he had done in creation.

ACTIVITY 12

Purpose: to go for a walk outdoors and appreciate the gift of nature.

Materials needed: hatwalking shoessunblock

Outline of activity: On a beautiful day it is great to go for a walk to breathe in fresh air and listen to the sounds of nature. Invite the participants to walk around the retreat centre and to appreciate the signs of spring around them. Give the participants a specified amount of time to walk so everyone returns in time for the next activity. If you want to make the experience challenging, invite the students to identify five types of trees or wild/flowers, bird songs, etc.

ACTIVITY 13

Purpose: to eat a treat like an apple.

Materials needed: bring something that everyone can eat as a treat

Outline of activity: It is good to have a piece of fresh fruit. Usually juicy and tasty fruit help us to celebrate life and all that God provides for us in creation. Seeds in the centre remind us of God’s plan to provide new life within the design of creation.

SUB-THEME 5 – WALKING FORWARD TOGETHER IN HOPE

ACTIVITY 14

Purpose: to create Rock Art with the word Hope.

Materials needed: a clean, smooth rock with a flat sidepermanent markers/acrylic pantfeltwhite gluea list of quotes that inspire hope or simply the word Hope

Outline of activity: Write a Bible verse, a Christian expression, or the word HOPE on the rock. Decorate the rock using permanent markers or acrylic paint. Brush white glue on the rock. Glue a piece of felt to the bottom side of the rock. Place rock on deck at home to remind you to walk forward in hope.

Adapted from ARTS and CRAFTS from A to Z by Mary Kathleen Glavich, SND, page 80

ACTIVITY 15

Purpose: to select a patron saint with whom you can walk forward with hope and help.

Materials needed: books on patron saintsORa computer with WiFi access to http://www.catholic.org/saints/stindex.phpORprintouts from the internet about various patron saints

Outline of activity: Ask, do you know someone (a family member, a friend, for example) whom you look up to, whom you go to for help, especially because of their expertise or interest in a particular subject – for example, for playing baseball or for being an artist? That’s similar to patron saints in our Catholic family.

Invite your retreatants to learn more about one or two patron saints – some saint that they can take as a patron who can walk with them with hope through the next few years. Once they find a saint, invite them to learn about the saint and to write a cinquain (five line poem) so they will remember the saint.A Cinquain is written like this:

Line one: a one word noun: a person, place, or thing.Line two: two adjectives that describe the person/place/thing.Line three: three “ing” words that describe the noun: what the person/place/thing does.Line four: a phrase or sentence about the person/place/thing.Line five: a synonym for the noun (another word for the person/place/thing; rename it)Example. a cinquain about Jesus would be:

JesusCompassionate, TrustworthyComforting, Forgiving, ChallengingTaught us to be fully humanRedeemer

Adapted from Enriching Faith Series – LESSONS and ACTIVITIES on What Makes Us Catholic by Janet Schaeffler, OP, page 42

ACTIVITY 16

Purpose: to reflect on hope in our daily lives.

http://www.catholic.org/saints/stindex.php

Materials needed: chart paper/butcher paper taped to wall as a place to tweetmarkers that won’t bleed through paper onto the wall

Outline of activity: Discuss the word HOPE in small groups or one large group. A definition of the virtue of hope is: HOPE is the trust that God will always be with us. Because of hope, we trust that God is with us through all things now, even difficult things, and God helps us live in a way that will keep us with him forever. Ask, how can we live the virtue of hope in our everyday lives? Ask the students to brainstorm. This is a difficult brainstorm because hope is a bit elusive. The culture in which we live does not frequently celebrate hope. Virtues are like habits; they need to be practiced for them to be alive, active, and a part of our lives.

Once the discussion has run its course, invite the students to encourage classmates by composing a tweet on the chart paper or butcher paper as a mosaic of HOPE.

Adapted from Enriching Faith Series – LESSONS and ACTIVITIES on What Makes Us Catholic by Janet Schaeffler, OP, page 66-67

CLOSING BLESSING FOR THE RETREAT DAY

May God wrap his warmth around you like a shawl to hug you tight;God’s light glow bright within you to guide your steps at night;God’s strength flow sure all through you –hold you up against hurt and fearand whisper in your heart, Dear friend, my love is always near.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. +Sample Letter to Parents

Dear Family Members,

I am writing to ask for your help in a very special part of the retreat your son/daughter will be attending (date of your retreat). I would like you to write a “love letter” to your child, telling him/her about the deep love you feel.

In our busy and hectic lives we often forget to say the most important things to the people who mean the most to us. Please take this opportunity to tell your son/daughter all the special things you love about him/her, to share your favourite memories of your teen’s childhood, to express your loving hope for his/her future, etc.

You may write just one letter signed by either or both parents, or each parent may write a separate letter; that is up to you. However, it is very important that every teen on the retreat have a letter. If I do not receive a letter for everyone, I will have to replace this retreat activity with something else. Send your letter in an envelope with your child’s name on it and mail it to me in an outer envelope.

Please get your letter to me by (date at least two weeks before the retreat) so that I can be certain I will be able to do this activity. The love letters are to be a surprise so please do not mention the letter to your son/daughter ahead of time.

Thank you.

Movie List Related to the Five Sub-Themesof Catholic Education Week 2017

Movies are a great medium for exploring themes with intermediate and senior students. This list of movie titles is offered as a suggestion for Religious Education, Arts or Social Science classes. Please preview the movie before you show it in case there is something that would be insensitive to your school situation or locale.

Movies that include all five sub-themes of this year’s Catholic Education Week are:

Entertaining Angels Avatar Whalerider

While watching the movie, invite the students to identify which scenes of the movie illustrate the sub-theme. Students may have viewed these movies in another context so they do not have to focus on the story line but they can be engaged by looking for evidence of the sub-theme.

Movies for each sub-theme:

Walking Forward Together with God: Entertaining AngelsOh God!Prince of EgyptLittle Boy

The Young Messiah

Walking Forward Together with Our Families: The Blind SideParenthoodA Good LieA Brilliant Young MindLife is Beautiful

Walking Forward Together with Others: Smoke SignalsSecret PathFor Angela (NFB, 25 minutes)

Walking Forward Together with Creation: The MartianBefore the Flood (on YouTube)An Inconvenient Truth

Walking Forward Together in Hope: McFarlandSlumdog MillionaireGoodbye SoloFreedom WritersChariots of FireRudyInvictus

Walking Forward TogetherScripture Readings & Quotes Related to the

Five Sub-Themes of CEW 2017

Walking

If you will diligently observe this entire commandment that I am commanding you, loving the Lord your God, walking in all his ways… Dt 11.22

Whoever walks in integrity walks securely. Pr 10.9

I was overjoyed to find some of your children walking in the truth. 2 Jn 1.4

O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord! Is 2.5

If a person wishes to be sure of the road s/he treads on, s/he must close her/his eyes and walk in the dark. St. John of the Cross

Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase. Martin Luther King Jr.

A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step. Lao Tzu

I took the road less travelled by, and that has made all the difference. Robert Frost

Be content to progress in slow steps until you have legs to run and wings with which to fly. Padre Pio

Walking Forward Together with God

Be the one who walks with the Lord. Shellie Palmer, Beyond the Silence of Love and FaithThose who walk with God always reach their destination. Henry FordGod has made it clear to you, mortal, what is good and what the LORD is requiring from you –

to act with justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6.8Let us walk with decency, as in the daylight. Romans 13.13The one who says he resides in God ought himself to walk just as Jesus walked. 1 Jn 2.6We always find that those who walked closest to Christ were those who had to bear the greatest

trials. St. Teresa of AvilaPrayer is sitting in the silence until it silences us, choosing gratitude until we are grateful,

praising God until we ourselves are a constant act of praise. Fr. Richard Rohr OFM

Walking Forward Together with Our Families

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. Helen KellerMy mother is a walking miracle. Leonardo DiCaprioYou don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them. Desmond TutuEqual consideration needs to be given to the growing danger represented by an extreme

individualism which weakens family bonds and ends up considering each member of the family as an isolated unit, leading in some cases to the idea that one’s personality is shaped by his or her desires, which are considered absolute. Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia, On Love in the Family, page 28

Mama exhorted her children at every opportunity to "jump at the sun." We might not land on the sun, but at least we would get off the ground. Zora Neale Hurston

Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one. Jane Howard

Walking Forward Together with Others

Great Spirit, help me never to judge another until I have walked in their moccasins. In refugee camps around the world, I met people who were gone. They were still walking around but had lost so much that they were unable to claim any sort of identity. Others I met found who they truly were, and they generally found it through service to others. They became teachers when there was no school, books or pencils. Deborah Ellis

The land is sacred; it belongs to the countless numbers who are dead, the few who are living, and the multitudes of those yet to be born. Penan, Sarawak, Malaysia

Turn your face to the sun, and the shadows fall behind you. Maori proverbWe will be known forever by the tracks we leave. Dakota Proverb

Walking Forward Together with Creation

We lack an awareness of our common origin, of our mutual belonging, and of a future to be shared with everyone. This basic awareness would enable the development of new convictions, attitudes and forms of life. A great cultural, spiritual and educational challenge stands before us, and it will demand that we set out on the long path of renewal. Laudato Si’, #202

Each year sees the disappearance of thousands of plant and animal species which we never know, which our children will never see, because they have been lost forever. The great majority become extinct for reasons related to human activity. Because of us, thousands of species will no longer give glory to God by their very existence, nor convey their message to us. We have no such right. Laudato Si’ #33

God of love, show us our place in this world as channels of your love for all the creatures of this earth, for not one of them is forgotten in your sight. Laudato Si’

All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well... for there is a Force of love moving through the universe that holds us fast and will never let us go. Julian of Norwich

Walking Forward Together in Hope

Those who keep speaking about the sun while walking under a cloudy sky are messengers of hope, the true saints of our day. Henri Nouwen

Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart, and you’ll never walk alone. You’ll never walk alone. Oscar Hammerstein II

Hope always finds a way. Don’t give up. Faith keeps you strong. Trials keep you humble. Flaws keep you human. Hope keeps you walking and God keeps you going. Jennifer Duke Slee

I am not discouraged, because every wrong attempt discarded is another step forward. Thomas Edison

I dwell in possibility. Emily DickinsonLittle do ye know your own blessedness; for to travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive.

Robert Louis Stevenson

Documents

Web viewPRAYERS AND ACTIVITIES FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK. SECONDARY SCHOOLS. Catholic Education Week 2017: Walking Forward Together. Introduction. Each