Art Print 1233
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Saint Dominic GraDe 4, Unit 3, session 11 Catechist Guide page 65
Faith Focus: Saint Dominic provides an 1
CateChist DireCtions
Begin
A R T P R I N T 11
m a t e r i a l s
� Saint Dominic Art Print
� Children’s Book page 239
example for how to follow Jesus.
OutcOmes
� Retell facts about Dominic’s life.
� Explain how Dominic followed Jesus’
After completing page 65 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
t i m e
10–30 minutes
example.
� Explain that the Dominicans continue
to proclaim the Gospel to others.
Ask: What can we tell about Saint Dominic based on this image? (Possible
answers: He was a holy person. He was a member of a religious community.)
Explain that Dominic’s hair has been tonsured. Say: This hairstyle was
historically worn by priests and monks as a symbol of their vocation,
similar to the special collar they wear today. This was one way for priests
and monks to show that they were Jesus’ followers. Ask: How can we
show others that we are Jesus’ followers? (Possible answers: practice the
Beatitudes, follow Jesus’ new commandment, go to Mass)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking
Jesus for the strength to preach his Good News to others.
About the Artist Pedro Berruguete, a
Spanish painter, was born around a d 1450.
As a result of the early training he received,
there is evidence of Flemish and Italian
influences in his work. Berruguete spent
most of his life in Spain and Italy, working
primarily on panel paintings and frescoes.
Art historians classify Berruguete as a
transitional figure because he bridged the
span between Gothic and Renaissance art.
Art•i•facts Saint Dominic of Guzman
is filled with religious imagery. The halo
around Saint Dominic’s head signifies that
he is a holy person. The black and white
clothing he is wearing is representative
of the habit traditionally worn by
Dominicans, the religious community he
founded. His staff is topped with a cross,
a traditional symbol of Christianity. The
lilies symbolize the purity and truth of
Christianity’s religious teachings.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 239 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud Saint Dominic.
Ask: How are we welcomed into the Church? (through the Sacraments of
Initiation) To whom can we look for examples of how to follow Jesus? (the
saints) What did Dominic believe was one of the best ways to help others
grow in faith? (by sharing the Good News in both word and action) Explain
that people share the Good News through both word and action when they
tell others about Jesus and follow his example. What religious community
did Dominic found? (Order of Preachers, Dominicans) What did many of the
early members of the Dominicans do? (travel from city to city to preach the
Good News) Explain that members of the Dominican community continue
to preach the Gospel through various ministries including education and
EXPLORE
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below. parish work.
Read aloud A Good Example. Give children time to complete the activity.
ART PRINT Name Date If TIme Allows
Art Print 11 is an image of Saint Dominic, who has given us an example of
how to follow Jesus. Who in your life has helped you follow Jesus?
Saint Dominic We welcomed into the Church, the Body of
Christ, through the Sacraments of Initiation.
As members of this Body, look to the
saints for examples of how to follow Jesus.
Saint Dominic is such saint.
Dominic, who born in Spain in 1170,
believed that of the best ways to help others
grow in faith by sharing the Good News through
both word and action.
He became preacher and founded religious community called
the Order of Preachers. Many early members of this community, often
called Dominicans, traveled from city to city to preach the Good News.
They depended the kindness of others for food and shelter.
Before he died in 1221, Dominic had established houses of his
religious order in Spain, France, and Italy. The priests, religious
brothers and sisters, and laity who make up the Order of Preachers
continue to preach the Gospel today.
A Good Example
Write way that you follow Jesus’ example by helping others
grow in their faith.
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Music Open Your Ears Play a song about listening to God’s Word such as
“Open Your Ears, O Faithful People” [Finding God Grade 4 CD 2, Track 5].
As the song plays, ask children to reflect on how the words of the song help
people understand the Good News. After listening, have small groups work
together to write another verse for the song. Have groups sing their new
verses for one another.
time: 20–30 minutes materials: CD player, song about listening to God’s Word such as “Open Your Ears, O Faithful People” [Finding God Grade 4 CD 2, Track 5]
Expression: Art Studio Following Jesus in Word and Action Give pairs of children time to
brainstorm ways to follow Jesus’ example. Distribute art supplies. Then ask
children to draw pictures of themselves following Jesus in word and action.
Encourage children to include a caption that explains what they are doing.
Display children’s finished work.
time: 30–45 minutes materials: art supplies
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Dominic’s Example for All Give children time to reflect on the Art
Print. Ask children to imagine that they are with Saint Dominic and his
companions as they travel from city to city, preaching the Good News.
Ask: What do you hear in your travels? What do you see? What do you do
to teach others about Jesus? After giving children time to pray, say: Take a
moment to pray a silent prayer thanking God for the opportunity to share
the Good News with others.
time: 10 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 3 • Session 1
11
©
240 www.findinggod.com
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Holy Apostles GraDe 4, Unit 3, session 12 Catechist Guide page 71
Faith Focus: After Judas Iscariot betrayed
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
A R T P R I N T 12
m a t e r i a l s
� Holy Apostles Art Print
� Children’s Book page 240
Jesus, the apostles chose Matthias to be his
replacement.
OutcOmes
� Explain why the apostles believed Justus
After completing page 71 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
t i m e
10–30 minutes
and Matthias were worthy replacements for
Judas Iscariot.
� Retell the story of how Matthias was chosen
to replace Judas Iscariot as the 12th apostle.
� Identify the religious symbolism of the
number 12.
� Define cast lots
Ask: Whom do you see in this image? (the 12 apostles) Point out the
differences between each apostle. Say: While each apostle was different,
Jesus chose each of them to work together to carry out his mission. Each of
us is different, yet Jesus has called each of us to work together as members
of the Church to carry out his mission in the world today.
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking
God to help them remain faithful members of the Church.
About the Artist Manolis Grigoreas,
a self-taught artist, was born in Poraeus,
Greece, in 1952. His work has been
exhibited in Athens and Thessaloniki,
Greece, and London, England. Grigoreas
is known for using colored pencils and
India ink on millboard—a thick paper that
contains cotton fibers—in his pieces. In
2006, Grigoreas opened his own gallery in
Monemvassia, Greece.
Art•i•facts Holy Apostles portrays the
12 apostles. Grigoreas took care to depict
each apostle distinctively, representing
the diversity among them. The mediums
used in this piece include colored pencils
and India ink, which is a dark ink formed
by combining soot, water, and a binding
agent such as gelatin or shellac. The Greek
text in the image names each apostle.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 240 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud A New Apostle.
Ask: Who were the Church’s early leaders? (Jesus’ apostles) Which apostle
betrayed Jesus? (Judas Iscariot) What did the remaining apostles decide to
do after Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus? (choose a replacement for him) Why
did the remaining apostles believe that Justus and Matthias were suitable
candidates to replace Judas? (They both believed that Jesus had risen from
the dead and returned to God the Father.) Explain the importance of faith in
being a good disciple. Ask: What did the apostles do after praying for
guidance? (They cast lots.) Say: When the apostles cast lots, they threw
stones onto the ground. The way the stones landed determined the
outcome of the apostles’ decision. Ask: Who was chosen as the
replacement for Judas Iscariot? (Matthias)
Read aloud Choose a Candidate. Give children time to complete the activity.
EXPLORE ART PRINT
12
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Art Print 12 is an image of Jesus’ followers, the twelve apostles.
How do you follow Jesus in your words and actions?
A New Apostle Jesus’ twelve apostles were the Church’s early
leaders. Before Jesus was crucified, he was
betrayed by Judas Iscariot, one of the
apostles. The remaining apostles decided to
choose a replacement for Judas.
Justus and Matthias had been Jesus’ close followers.
They believed, as did the apostles, that Jesus had
risen from the dead and returned to God the
Father. The apostles thought that one of these
two men should become Judas’s
replacement, but they did not know which one to choose.
After praying for guidance, the apostles cast lots.
This allowed them to let God direct the outcome of
their decision. In the end, Matthias was chosen as the
new apostle.
adapted from Acts of the Apostles 1:21–26
Matthias
Choose a Candidate
Write the qualities characteristics you would look for when choosing
apostle.
Did You Know?
The apostles believed that the number 12 was important; they thought of themselves as carrying on the tradition of the 12 tribes
of Israel. These Jewish tribes, or extended families, were descendants of Abraham and Sarah, who represented the People of God. As Jesus’ followers, the apostles believed they were carrying on this tradition as the new People of God.
Art Print 241
Did You Know?
Aft
er
rea
din
g
alo
ud the feature, ask: Why did the apostles believe the number
12 is important? (There were 12 tribes of Israel; the apostles
thought of themselves as carrying on this tradition.) Say: As
members of the Church, we also carry on Jesus’ work as the
People of God.
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Movement
Choosing an Apostle Retell the story of the apostles
choosing Matthias as Judas Iscariot’s replacement. Have
children stand. Then read aloud each line and pantomime
the suggested action. Invite children to repeat the line and
the action after you.
Judas is gone. Whom will we choose? [shrug shoulders]
With Justus and Matthias, we just can’t lose. [nod and look side to side]
Think about each man and then pray. [fold hands
in prayer] Let’s cast lots to know who will stay. [pantomime
casting lots] God will direct the outcome. [look upward]
Matthias is chosen as the one. [applaud]
time: 5–10 minutes materials: none
Expression: Art Studio
Jesus’ Disciples Invite children to think about someone they know who
carries on Jesus’ work in the world today. After distributing art supplies, ask
children to draw a picture of that person doing something to carry on Jesus’
work. When children have finished, invite volunteers to share their drawings
and to explain how the person they drew is following Jesus’ example.
time: 30 minutes materials: art supplies
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 3 • Session 12
©
242 www.findinggod.com
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
The Prodigal Son
A R T P R I N T 13
GraDe 4, Unit 3, session 13 Catechist Guide page 77
Faith Focus: Jesus teaches us about God’s
forgiveness through the parable of the
forgiving father.
OutcOmes
� Retell the parable of the forgiving father.
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 77 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
m a t e r i a l s
� The Prodigal Son Art Print
� Children’s Book page 241
t i m e
10–30 minutes
� Explain what the parable of the forgiving
father teaches about God’s forgiveness.
About the Artist Marc Chagall was
born near the city of Vitebsk in what is
now Belarus and what was then part of
the Russian Empire. As an adult, Chagall
lived in Russia, the United States, and
France. Chagall can be described as a
Russian-French artist, a Jewish artist, and
a pioneer of modernism. He is unique
in that his works include a wide array of
artistic mediums. His work decorates
the Opera House in Paris, the New York
Metropolitan Opera, the United Nations
building, and the Vatican. He is one of the
few artists whose work was exhibited at
the Louvre in their lifetime.
Art•i•facts In 1973, when Chagall was
living in France, the Russian government
invited him to visit Russia. Chagall painted
The Prodigal Son after this visit. It is an
autobiographical image of his return
to Vitebsk, the town in which he spent
his childhood. Some have interpreted
the painting to represent the themes of
returning home, love, and welcoming.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (two men embracing, a woman carrying
flowers, townspeople, the sun) What might the townspeople be thinking
and saying to one another as they observe the two men hugging? (Possible
answer: They are happy to see the son return home.) How do you feel when
you see this image? (Accept reasonable responses.)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for his never-ending love and forgiveness.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 241 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud The Forgiving
Father. Ask: Why did Jesus tell this story? (to teach us about God’s forgiveness)
Say: When the younger son asked for his share of what he will inherit, he
asked his father to give him what he will receive from his father’s belongings
when his father dies. Ask: How did the father respond to this request? (He
was hurt, but he agreed to do what his son asked.) What did the younger son
do after he left home? (He traveled to a distant country and spent his money
freely.) What did the son decide to do after the famine struck? (return home)
How did the father respond to his son’s homecoming? (He embraced his son.
He gave him fine clothes. He celebrated with a great feast.) How is God like
the father in this parable? (God is always ready to welcome us.) How are we
sometimes like the son? (We sometimes choose to turn away from God.)
Say: Even when we do something to hurt God, he still loves us and wants
us to return to him.
EXPLORE
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below. Read aloud A Lesson Learned. Complete the activity as a group. Ask
volunteers to explain why the other two sentences are not correct.
ART PRINT Name Date If TIme Allows
Art Print 13 is an illustration of the parable of the forgiving father. How
does it feel to know that God is always ready to offer his love and forgiveness?
The Forgiving Father Jesus taught us about God’s forgiveness by telling a story of a
man who had two sons. One day the younger son said to his
father, “Give me my share of what I will inherit.” The father was
hurt, but he agreed to divide his property between the sons.
Then the younger son left home. His father was sad to see him
go, but the son did not care. He wanted to be on his own so that
he could have a good time. He traveled to a distant country and
spent his money freely. Just as he ran out of money, a famine
struck.
The son eventually found a job tending pigs. He had so little to
eat that he would have been glad to have some of the pigs’ food.
Finally, he came to his senses and decided to return home. He knew
that he had treated his father badly, and he wondered if his father
would forgive him.
When his father saw him approaching, he embraced him. The
son said, “Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. I
no longer deserve to be called your son.”
The father, however, was so happy that his son returned that he
gave him fine clothes and celebrated with a great feast. He said,
“This son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was
lost, and has been found.”
adapted from Luke 15:11–24
A Lesson Learned
Circle the number of the sentence below that bes
expresses the lesson of this parable.
1. Do not spend your money freely.
2. Even if turn away from God, he will forgive 13
Art Print 241
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Movement Act Out the Parable Ask small groups to work together to
prepare and present dramatizations of the parable of the
forgiving father. Encourage children to focus on the father’s
acceptance of the prodigal son. Children may wish to use
props or simple costumes in their dramatizations.
Conclude the activity by saying: Remember what this
parable teaches us about God: He loves us and is
always ready to welcome us.
time: 30–45 minutes materials: props and costumes
Expression: Art Studio
God Forgives After distributing art supplies, invite children to make their
own illustrations of the parable of the forgiving father. After children have
finished, invite volunteers to share their illustrations.
time: 20–30 minutes materials: art supplies
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Welcome Back Give children time to reflect on the Art Print. Then say:
Imagine that you are one of the townspeople watching the father embrace
his son. Ask: What are you thinking? How do you feel? Say: Imagine that
you are the son being welcomed back by your father. Ask: How do you feel?
Say: Imagine that you are the father. Ask: How do you feel as you welcome
your son back home? After giving children time to pray, conclude by
inviting them to exchange with one another a sign of peace.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: none
3. Never ask for inheritance.
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 3 • Session 13
©
244 www.findinggod.com
1
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
The Virgin GraDe 4, Unit 3, session 14 Catechist Guide page 83
Faith Focus: We are all children of Mary, the
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
A R T P R I N T 14
m a t e r i a l s
� The Virgin Art Print
� Children’s Book page 242
Mother of the Church.
OutcOmes
� Explain why we call Mary the Mother of
the Church.
After completing page 83 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
t i m e
10–30 minutes
� State that Mary now lives in Heaven
and shares in the glory of Christ’s
Resurrection.
� Explain the Marian symbolism of the
violet, lily of the valley, and hawthorn.
About the Artist Joseph Stella was
born near Naples, Italy, in 1877. He
moved to the United States when he
was 18. As a young man, he planned
to follow in his brother’s footsteps by
becoming a physician. Stella, however,
soon discovered that his true passion
was the arts. He first worked as an
illustrator, and then became known for
his paintings. During much of his career,
Stella focused on themes central to the
Futurist movement. He was not, however,
exclusively dedicated to this style. His
works also include Surrealist paintings.
Art•i•facts n The Virgin Stella painted
Mary as if she were in a garden filled with
flowers and fruits that symbolize the
meaning of who she is. Lilies of the valley
symbolize her purity and purple violets
symbolize her humility. The red rose
reminds us of the sorrow Mary felt when
witnessing Jesus’ Death. Pomegranates,
as we see across the top of the painting,
are often used in Christian art. This fruit
is filled with bright red juice and many
seeds. Many works show Jesus holding
an open pomegranate, the visible seeds
symbolizing Jesus’ Death and Resurrection.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (Mary, birds, flowers, fruit) Explain that
flowers and fruit often serve as symbols in art. Say: Mary is an important
role model for us. When she said yes to God and agreed to become Jesus’
mother, she chose to help build up God’s kingdom. When we follow her
example by saying yes to God, we also help build up God’s kingdom.
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for giving us Mary as an example of how to follow him.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 242 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud Mary, Mother of
the Church. Ask: What did Jesus tell Mary and his beloved disciple, John,
as he was dying on the cross? (to treat each other as mother and son) Say:
When Jesus said this, Mary become the Mother of the Church. Ask: Where
does Mary now live? (in Heaven) What does she want for us? (She wants
us to be united in the Communion of Saints through our union with Christ.)
Explain that the Communion of Saints is the community of all those who
have been saved in Jesus Christ. Say: When we proclaim our belief in Jesus,
we are united with all those who belong to the Communion of Saints.
Read aloud Mary’s Flowers. Say: modesty means “to speak and act in
an appropriate manner.” Ask: Why is this word a good description of
Mary? (Possible answer: Rather than doing what she wanted, Mary chose to
follow God’s plan.) Say: Humility is also a virtue. It is the opposite of being
arrogant or proud. Mary is such an important role model for us that we
EXPLORE ART PRINT
14
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Art Print 14 is an image of Mary. What can you do to follow Mary’s example
of love and service?
Mary, Mother of the Church Jesus loved his mother Mary, the first disciple, very much. When he
dying the cross he told her and his beloved disciple, John, to
treat each other mother and This meant that Mary became the
Mother of the Church. We all her children. Mary lives in
Heaven, sharing in the glory of Jesus’ Resurrection. She want to be
united in the Communion of Saints through union with Christ.
Mary’s Flowers
The flowers below have special meanings associated with Mary. The
violet, known Our Lady’s Modesty, is associated with her humility.
Lily of the valley, known Mary’s Tears, is reminder of her
at Jesus’ Death. The hawthorn is referred to Mary’s flower of May.
Violet Lily of the Valley Hawthorn
Match each flower to quality of Mary’s to vent in her life.
traditionally devote the entire month of May to honoring her. Ask: What
can we do to honor Mary? (Possible answers: pray to her, follow her example)
Give children time to complete the activity. Ask children which flowers
they have seen in their community.
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Music Praise Mary in Song Distribute hymnals that include well-known Marian
hymns, such as “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman,” “Immaculate Mary,” or “Sing
of Mary.” Have small groups work together to list on a sheet of paper what
the songs teach us about Mary. After giving children time to work, write
on the board a collective list of what children suggest. Then sing one of the
songs together.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: hymnals with well-known Marian hymns such as “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman,” “Immaculate Mary,” or “Sing of Mary”
Expression: Art Studio Service Bouquet After distributing art supplies, invite each child to make
two or three paper flowers. Have children write on each flower something
they can do to follow Mary’s example. Gather the completed flowers into
a vase and use them to decorate your prayer center. Encourage children
to complete the actions they wrote on their flowers. Conclude by praying
together the Hail Mary.
time: 20–30 minutes materials: art supplies, construction paper
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer
A Prayer for Mary Give children time to reflect on the Art Print. Invite
children to pray a silent prayer to Mary, honoring her for being the Mother 1. violet
2. lily of the valley
3. hawthorn
. Celebrate Mary during the month of May.
b. Mary humble in her role Jesus’ mother.
. Mary’s Son, Jesus, crucified.
of the Church. Encourage children to ask God for the strength to follow
Mary’s example.
time: 5–10 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 3 • Session 14
©
Art Print 243243
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Adoration of the Magi
A R T P R I N T 15
GraDe 4, Unit 3, session 15 Catechist Guide page 89
Faith Focus: The feast days
that are part of the Christmas
season help us joyfully celebrate
Jesus’ birth.
OutcOmes
� Name the feast days we
celebrate during the
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 89 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (Jesus, Mary,
Joseph, the Magi, a crowd of people) What are the Magi
m a t e r i a l s
� Adoration of the Magi Art Print
� Children’s Book page 243
� Refrain of “O Come, All Ye Faithful”
t i m e
10–30 minutes
Christmas season.
� Explain how each feast day
helps us celebrate Jesus’ birth.
� State that we can show our
praise by offering Jesus our
gift of love.
About the Artist Jean-Hippolyte
Flandrin was born in France in the
19th century. He, along with his two
brothers, was interested in the arts from
a young age. All three siblings eventually
became painters. Flandrin first studied in
Lyon, France, and later in Rome, Italy. He
received many commissions as a result
of the fame he gained from the works
he produced while living in Italy. Today
Flandrin is known for his religious images,
which can still be seen in churches
throughout France.
Art•i•facts Adoration of the Magi, oil on
card, was completed in 1857. The subject
is the Magi’s visit to the baby Jesus.
This event traditionally is celebrated
on January 6. In the current liturgical
calendar for the United States, this feast
is celebrated on the Sunday between
January 2 and January 8. The Feast of the
Epiphany commemorates the visit of the
Magi, who traveled from afar to bring the
baby Jesus valuable gifts.
doing? (bowing down before Jesus) Why are they doing this? (to show Jesus
their praise and adoration) What is one of the Magi offering to Jesus? (a gift)
Why did the Magi bring gifts to Jesus? (Possible answer: to show Jesus their
devotion) What gift might you have brought if you were going to visit the
baby Jesus? Why would you bring that gift? (Accept reasonable responses.)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for the gift of his Son, Jesus. After giving children time to pray, sing
the refrain of “O Come, All Ye Faithful.”
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 243 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud God Among Us.
Ask: What do we celebrate on the Feast of Mary, the Mother of God? (God’s
gift of grace to Mary, which gave her the strength to say yes to his request to be
Jesus’ mother) What do we celebrate on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord?
(that God chose Jesus to teach us about his kingdom) What do we celebrate
on the Sunday before the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord? (the Feast of the
Epiphany) What do we remember on the Feast of the Epiphany? (the Magi’s
visit to Bethlehem where Jesus was revealed to the world as God’s Son who
was sent into the world to show us how to live) What gifts did the Magi offer?
(gold, frankincense, myrrh) What gift can we offer to Jesus? (our love)
Read aloud A Gift for Jesus. Give children time to complete the activity. For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
EXPLORE
ART PRINT
Name Date
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Art Print 15 shows the Magi honoring the baby Jesus.
What can you do to give thanks to God for the gift of Jesus?
God Among Us During the Christmas season
celebrate Jesus’ birth. In addition to
the Feast of the Nativity, there
three other feast days that help
celebrate this joyous vent On the
Feast of Mary, the Mother of God,
celebrate God’s gift of grace to
Mary, which gave her the strength
to say yes to his request. We end the
Christmas with the Feast of
the Baptism of the Lord. On this day
celebrate that God chose Jesus to
teach about his kingdom.
The Sunday before the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, celebrate
the Feast of the Epiphany. We remember the Magi’s visit to Bethlehem
where Jesus revealed to the world God’s Son who sent into
the world to show how to live.
The Magi showed their praise by giving Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense,
and myrrh. We show praise by offering Jesus gift of love.
We do this whenever choose to follow God’s plan for
A Gift for Jesus
Write how you show your praise for Jesus by choosing to follow
God’s plan for you this Christmas
Expression: Movement and Music “We Three Kings” Distribute hymnals with the song “We Three Kings.”
Discuss the meaning of the lyrics. Sing the song together. Then say: Let’s
sing the song again. As we do let’s stand and pantomime actions to go along
with the words. You get to choose what actions to do. Sing the song again,
allowing children to come up with actions that go along with the words.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: hymnals with the song“We Three Kings”
Expression: Art Studio
Gifts from the Heart After distributing art supplies, invite children to
make Christmas ornaments for parishioners who are homebound or who
live in health-care facilities. Have children write a note to accompany their
decorations. Arrange with your catechetical leader to have the decorations
delivered to parishioners.
time: 25–30 minutes materials: art supplies
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer
Witnessing the Magi Have children study the Art Print and imagine that
they are one of the onlookers watching the Magi adore the baby Jesus. Ask:
What do you observe about the Magi? How do you feel being with them in
Jesus’ presence? Give children time to reflect silently. Close by thanking
God for sending us his Son, Jesus.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 3 • Session 15
15
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244 www.findinggod.com
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
The Good Shepherd
A R T P R I N T 16
GraDe 4, Unit 4, session 16 Catechist Guide page 95
Faith Focus: Jesus teaches us about
his love and care for us through the
parable of the lost sheep.
OutcOmes
� Explain that Jesus seeks out any
followers who are lost to sin and
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 95 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (Jesus, sheep)
m a t e r i a l s
� The Good Shepherd Art Print
� Children’s Book page 244
t i m e
10–30 minutes
rejoices when sinners repent.
� Retell the parable of the lost sheep.
� Define repentance.
About the Artist Some pieces of art
are unsigned. The anonymous artists
may have been skilled, yet unemployed,
amateurs who were supported by
benefactors. They may have made their
work for personal use, or, as is likely
for this piece, they may have been
commissioned by another person to
design and complete the artwork.
Art•i•facts The mosaic of The Good
Shepherd Among His Flock adorns the
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia in Revenna,
Italy. At one time this building contained
the sarcophagi of Galla Placidia, her
brother Honorius, and her husband
Constantius III. Placidia was a devout
Christian and a patron of the arts. During
her period of influence, she oversaw
the building and renovation of many
churches. The mausoleum that bears her
name is known for its mosaics, an art form
in which an image is made by setting
pieces of colored stone, cut glass, or other
materials into an adhesive surface.
What do shepherds do? (Possible answers: care for their sheep by making
sure they have enough to eat and drink; protect sheep from harm) Say: One
of our titles for Jesus is the Good Shepherd. In a moment we’re going to
hear a Scripture story Jesus told about a shepherd and his sheep.
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for the gift of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 244 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite a volunteer to read aloud the heading and
the first paragraph. Point out the vocabulary word. Say: Repentance is our
choice to turn away from sin. When we repent we express our desire to turn
back to God and to live as he wants us to live.
Remind children that a parable is a story that teaches a religious lesson by
using comparisons. Invite volunteers to read aloud the Scripture passage.
Ask: To whom is Jesus comparing himself in this passage? (a shepherd)
Whom do the sheep represent? (Jesus’ followers) What does a good
shepherd do when he realizes he has lost one of his sheep? (go out to look
for the lost sheep) What does he do when he finds the sheep? (rejoices) Say:
In this passage Jesus explains that he is the Good Shepherd and that he
calls us to repent when we freely choose to turn away from God. Explain
that repentance is our desire to turn back to God after we have freely
chosen to turn away from him. Emphasize that Jesus rejoices when we
EXPLORE ART PRINT
16
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Art Print 16 is an image of a mosaic that depicts Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
What do you think he would do if he lost one of his sheep?
The Lost Sheep When sin, Jesus calls to repentance and to seek God’s forgiveness
through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Jesus teaches about his love
and for through the parable of the lost sheep.
What man among you having a hundred
sheep and losing one of them would not
leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go
after the lost one until he finds it? And when
he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders
with great joy and, upon his arrival home,
he calls together his friends and neighbors
and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because
I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you, in
just the same way there will be more joy in
heaven over one sinner who repents than
over ninety-nine righteous people who have
no need of repentance.
Luke 15:4–7
The Good Shepherd
Use the code to solve the puzzle.
choose to repent.
Read aloud The Good Shepherd. Give children time to complete
the activity.
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Movement Act Out the Parable Invite small groups to work together to prepare and
present dramatizations of the parable of the good shepherd. Encourage
children to focus on the shepherd’s care and concern for the lost sheep.
Children may wish to use simple costumes or props in their dramatizations.
After each group has had a chance to present, say: Remember what this
story teaches us about Jesus, the Good Shepherd. He calls us back when
we stray from God, and he celebrates when we choose to repent.
time: 20–30 minutes materials: costumes, props
Expression: Art Studio
Good Shepherd Mosaics Remind children that mosaics are made by gluing
small pieces of colored stone, cut glass, or other materials to a surface.
After distributing the supplies, invite children to make their own mosaics
of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, by tearing small pieces of construction paper
and gluing the pieces to another sheet of construction paper.
time: 20–30 minutes materials: construction paper, glue
26 13 23 24 26 9 22 8 21 12 9 6 8
Z Y X W V U T S R Q P O N M L K J H G F E D C B A
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
time: 10 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 4 • Session 16
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17
8
22
19
8
22
6 8 7 19 22
11 19 22 9 23
20 12 12 23
15 12 5 22 8
6 8
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer
Praying with the Good Shepherd Give children a moment to reflect on the
Art Print. Say: Think of a worry or concern you would like to share with
Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Take a moment to talk with Jesus. Ask: What
does he say to you? Pause, then conclude by praying together Amen
Art Print 245243
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Feeding Five Thousand
A R T P R I N T 17
GraDe 4, Unit 4, session 17 Catechist Guide page 101
Faith Focus: The story of Jesus feeding
the five thousand is an example of Jesus’
compassion for his disciples.
OutcOmes
� State that there are many times
throughout his life when Jesus nourished
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 101 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (Jesus, the
m a t e r i a l s
� Feeding Five Thousand Art Print
� Children’s Book page 245
t i m e
10–30 minutes
his disciples.
� Retell the story of the feeding of the
five thousand.
� Define compassion.
About the Artist Laura James, a self-
taught painter and illustrator, is known for
both religious and secular art. Her work
draws from Scripture parables, literature,
and history. In 2000, she was commissioned
to make illustrations for a new edition of
the Book of the Gospels. The illustrations
included in the book, most of which were
painted in about four months, increased
James’s fame as an artist.
Art• i• fac ts James has drawn
extensively on Ethiopian art and history
in her artwork. In Feeding of the 5,000, the
subjects, including Jesus and the apostles,
are dressed in traditional Ethiopian
clothing. James’s portrayal of the story
reminds us of the universal nature of the
Church. The medium used for this piece
is acrylic paint on canvas. Acrylic paint is
made by suspending colored pigments
in an acrylic polymer emulsion. A benefit
of acrylic paint is that is dries quickly,
especially when compared to the much
slower drying oil paints.
apostles, loaves of bread and some fish, a crowd) Say: Notice the expressions
of the apostles and the expressions of the people in the crowd. Ask: What
might the different groups be thinking? (Possible answers: The people in the
crowd are happy to receive a meal. The apostles are prayerful. They are happy
to be serving Jesus.)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
Jesus for all he does to nourish us.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 245 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud Jesus Feeds the
Five Thousand. Ask: What did Jesus give us in the gift of the Eucharist?
(himself) What are other examples of times when Jesus nourished his
disciples? (Possible answers: the Last Supper, breaking bread with the
disciples on the road to Emmaus after the Resurrection) Why did such a large
crowd follow Jesus? (They wanted to hear him preach.) What did Jesus tell
the apostles to do? (collect any food that the people had) What did Jesus do
with the food? (blessed it and asked the apostles to distribute it)
Point out the vocabulary word. Say: Compassion is a feeling of sympathy
or sorrow for someone in need. Ask: How does this story portray Jesus’
compassion? (Jesus showed compassion for the people who had followed
him by making sure they were fed.)
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below. Read aloud Show Compassion. Give children time to complete the activity.
EXPLORE
ART PRINT
Name Date
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Art Print 17 is an image of Jesus feeding the five thousand.
How have you been fed by Jesus?
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand Jesus gave the gift of himself in the Eucharist at the Last Supper.
There many other times throughout his life when he nourished
his disciples.
Jesus went off to a deserted place.
He was followed by a crowd of five
thousand people. Jesus felt sorry
for them. It was too late for them
to return home for dinner, so Jesus
invited them to sit down and eat.
Jesus told the apostles to collect any
food that the people in the crowd
had. They gathered five loaves of
bread and two fish. Jesus took the
food and blessed it. He then broke the bread, divided the fish, and
gave the food to the apostles to distribute to the crowd. There was
enough food for everyone. There was even food left over.
adapted from Mark 6:34–44
When Jesus many people following him, he felt compassion.
He knew they tired and hungry, he fed them. Everyone had
enough to at
Show Compassion
Describe time when you showed compassion to
Expression: Movement
Eyewitness News Invite children to imagine that they are eyewitnesses to
the feeding of the five thousand. Have small groups prepare and present
a news report about the event. Suggest that children play different roles,
including that of a reporter, Jesus, an apostle, and a crowd member, each of
whom can give an account of the event from his or her perspective. Children
may wish to use simple costumes or props when giving their news reports.
time: 30–40 minutes materials: costumes, props
Expression: Art Studio
The Five Thousand Encourage children to notice the people’s expressions
on the Art Print. After distributing art supplies, invite children to make
their own depictions of the feeding of the five thousand. Say: Try to convey
how the people in your picture feel after receiving nourishment from Jesus.
time: 15–20 minutes materials: art supplies
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer
Witnessing a Miracle Give children time to study the Art Print. Tell
children to imagine that they are one of the people in the crowd who
followed Jesus to the deserted place. Ask: What do you hear? What do you
see? What is Jesus doing? Say: Now imagine that one of the apostles hands
you a bit of food. Ask: How do you feel? How do you show your thanks to
the apostle? How do you show your thanks to Jesus? Give children time to
pray. Conclude by praying together the Lord’s Prayer.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 4 • Session 17
17
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246 www.findinggod.com
y
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Saint James GraDe 4, Unit 4, session 18 Catechist Guide page 107
Faith Focus: We, like the members of the early Church,
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
A R T P R I N T 18
m a t e r i a l s
� Saint James Art Print
� Children’s Book page 246
� Art supplies carry on Jesus’ healing work by caring for people who are sick or suffering.
OutcOmes
� Identify that the Church continues Jesus’ healing mission
through the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
After completing page 107 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Say: Notice the garments that Saint James is wearing.
t i m e
10–30 minutes
� State that Saint James encouraged early Christians to
pray for those who were ill and to anoint them in the
name of the Lord.
Ask: What do you see? (images from the lives of Jesus and the saints) Say: By
what he is wearing, we can tell that Saint James was an important figure in
text, which is Greek, is a prayer that is similar to one of the prayers we pray
during Mass.
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
Saint James and all the saints for their example of discipleship.
About the Artist Father Stephanos
Tzangarolas was a 17th-century Cretan
painter whose work is known for its
distinctive decorative elements, careful
design, and rich use of color. In addition
to painting, Tzangarolas is known for his
icons. His work can still be seen at the
Byzantine Museum in Athens, Greece.
Art•i•facts According to tradition, the
subject of this icon, James the Brother of
the Lord, was the first bishop of Jerusalem.
This icon, made with egg tempera, can
be found on a door to the sanctuary of
a church in Corfu, Italy. In egg tempera
painting, colored pigments are mixed
with egg yolk.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 246 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud Jesus Heals.
Ask: How does the Church continue Jesus’ healing mission? (through the
Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick) How did Jesus’ early followers
continue this work? (by offering healing and comfort to people who
were sick) In his letter in the New Testament, what did James encourage
Christians to do? (pray for those who were ill and anoint them in the name
of the Lord) What did this anointing do for people who were sick? (reassure
them that they were loved and cared for)
Read aloud Care for Others. Give children time to complete the activity.
Display children’s posters.
Reading God's Word
EXPLORE ART PRINT
18
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Art Print 18 is an icon of Saint James, who encouraged early Christians to pray
for and help people who were sick. How can you follow Saint James’s example?
Jesus Heals Through the Sacrament of the Anointing of t
the Church continues Jesus’ healing mission.
early followers also continued this work by of
healing and comfort to people who sick.
In his letter in the New Testament, James de
how important it for the members of the
early Church to for those who sick.
encouraged Christians to pray for those who
ill and to anoint them in the of the Lor
Anointing people who sick reassured th
they loved and cared for. James also wrot
those who confessed their sins would be forgiv
The Church continues to anoint people toda .
Care for Others
On separate sheet of paper, design poster
recruiting volunteers for ministries your pari
offers to people who ill.
Reading God’s Word
Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and
see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed,
the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news
proclaimed to them.” Matthew 11:4–5
After reading aloud the verse, say: In this passage Matthew points
out the many ways that Jesus’ followers experienced healing. Invite
children to share stories of when they or someone they know experienced
physical healing.
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Movement/Music Jesus the Healer Play a song about Jesus caring for people who are sick
of this song. Think of something you can do to express Jesus’ healing
presence to someone who is sick. After giving children time to reflect, say:
I am going to play the song a second time. As I do, come up with gestures
that support the meaning of the lyrics. Invite children to stand so that they
can gesture comfortably. Play the song again.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: CD player; song about Jesus caring for people who are sick or suffering, such as “When Jesus the Healer” [Finding God Grade 4 CD 2, Track 13]
Expression: Art Studio Prayer Chain Provide children with two-by-six-inch strips of paper. Invite
children to write on each strip the name of someone they know who is sick,
suffering, or in need of prayer. After children have written the names, have
them work together to make a prayer chain. Make the first link by taping
together the two ends of one of the paper strips. Make successive links by
threading a paper strip through the link and taping together the ends of the
new paper strip. Continue until all the paper strips are added to the chain.
Reverently place the paper chain in the prayer center. Conclude by praying
together a prayer asking Jesus to comfort all those who are sick or suffering.
time: 30–35 minutes materials: 2 x 6 inch paper strips, crayons or markers, tape
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 4 • Session 18
©
the early Church. Point out the parchment Saint James is holding. Say: The
or suffering, such as “When Jesus the Healer” [ Finding God Grade 4 CD 2,
Track 13]. After listening, say: Take a moment to reflect on the meaning
Art Print 247243
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Grape Pickers GraDe 4, Unit 4, session 19 Catechist Guide page 113
Faith Focus: When we grow in our
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
A R T P R I N T 19
m a t e r i a l s
� Grape Pickers Art Print
� Children’s Book page 247
� Art supplies relationship with Jesus, we become like productive branches that grow much fruit.
OutcOmes
� Explain that people who receive the
Sacraments at the Service of Communion
After completing page 113 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (grapevines,
t i m e
10–30 minutes
receive the grace to serve the Church.
� Paraphrase the Scripture passage about
the vine and the branches.
� State that as members of the Church, we
are called to love one another.
About the Artist Cristiana Angelini,
who was born in Tuscany, Italy, and studied
art in Florence, Italy, is known for her oil
paintings and pastels. Her artwork—
mostly landscapes and cityscapes—has
been exhibited in many London galleries,
including the Royal Academy.
Art•i•facts Depictions of natural
scenery, as is seen in Grape Pickers, are
the primary focus of landscape art.
Such pieces generally take a wide view
of a subject and often include the sky
and elements of the weather. Because
landscape art portrays a whole scene,
artists use scale to depict a sense of
distance or perspective. Grape Pickers,
completed in 1996, is oil on canvas and is
part of a private collection.
people who are picking grapes) How can you tell the grapevines are healthy
and strong? (Possible answers: The vines look healthy. The vines produce
grapes.) What can Jesus’ followers do to remain healthy and strong in their
faith? (Possible answers: pray, celebrate the sacraments, follow Jesus’ new
commandment)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for giving us the support of a faith community that helps us remain
close to Jesus and his Church.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 247 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud The Vine and
the Branches. Ask: What do the Sacraments at the Service of Communion
give people the grace to do? (serve the Church) What do those who receive
these sacraments help others do? (grow in their relationship with Jesus) To
what does Jesus compare himself in this Scripture passage? (a vine) To
what does Jesus compare his followers? (branches on the vine) Say: In this
passage Jesus tells us that when we freely choose to follow him, we remain
close to him. We bear fruit by sharing his love with others. Ask: What can
we do to help us remain close to Jesus? (pray, celebrate the sacraments,
attend Mass, practice the virtues)
Read aloud Retell the Parable. Give pairs of children time to brainstorm
comparisons they might use. Then give children time to complete the For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
activity independently. Display children’s finished work.
EXPLORE ART PRINT
Name Date
Meet a Saint
Art Print 19 is an image of two men picking grapes, which grow on vines.
Why are grapes a good symbol for our faith community?
The Vine and the Branches The Sacraments at the Service of Communion give
people the grace to the Church. Those who
receive these sacrament help others grow in their
relationship with Jesus. He told his disciples how
important it is to remain close to him when he said:
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever
remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit. . . .
As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain
in my love. . . . This is my commandment: love one
another as I love you.”
John 15:5,9,12
As members of the Church, all called to love another.
When do this, become like branches that bear much fruit.
Retell the Parable
On separate sheet of paper, write your version of the passage
of the vine and the branches. Choose another comparison that
helps explain the relationship between Jesus and his followers.
Meet a Saint
Hildegard of Bingen was born in Germany in 1098. After becoming a religious sister, she was chosen to be the leader of her convent. To help her sisters express their faith, she composed songs about God’s beauty in creation, and about Mary and the saints for them to sing. Hildegard of Bingen was so respected that popes, bishops, and kings asked her for advice.
After reading aloud the feature, ask: What was Hildegard of Bingen chosen
to do after she became a religious sister? (be the leader of her convent) How
did she help her sisters express their faith? (She composed songs about
God’s beauty in creation and about Mary and the saints for the sisters to
sing.) Say: Hildegard of Bingen also responded to the call of discipleship by
giving advice to others. We celebrate Saint Hildegard of Bingen’s feast day
on September 17.
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Music The Vine and the Branches Play a song such as “We Have Been Told” that
reinforces what Jesus taught about the vine and the branches. After playing
the song, say: Remember, singing is one way to pray. As I play the song
again, pray that you continue to live in Jesus’ love by singing along with
the song. Play the song again.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: CD player; song about the vine and the branches, such as “We Have Been Told”
Expression: Art Studio
Remain on the Vine After distributing art supplies, invite children to draw
multiple branches stemming from a main vine. Say: On each vine draw
a picture or write a sentence about how you can share Jesus’ love with
others. After children have finished, invite volunteers to share their work.
Encourage children to hang their artwork in their homes where it can serve
as a reminder to act in ways that will help children share Jesus’ love with
the people in their lives.
time: 25–30 minutes materials: art supplies
19
©
248 www.findinggod.com
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 4 • Session 19
Art Print 249243
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Jesus Mosaic GraDe 4, Unit 4, session 20 Catechist Guide page 119
Faith Focus: The season of Lent ends
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
A R T P R I N T 20
m a t e r i a l s
� Jesus Mosaic Art Print
� Children’s Book page 248
with the celebration of the Triduum
during Holy Week.
OutcOmes
� State that Lent ends with the
After completing page 119 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
t i m e
10–30 minutes
celebration of the Triduum during
Holy Week.
� Explain that on Holy Thursday, we
celebrate the Mass of the Lord’s
Supper; on Good Friday we
celebrate the Lord’s Passion; and
on Holy Saturday, we celebrate the
Easter Vigil.
About the Artist Little is known
about some artists. The reasons for this
vary. Sometimes records about artists
were not kept. Other times artists were
commissioned by another person or by a
community to make the artwork. It is also
possible that the artist was an amateur
whose work was not recognized during
his or her lifetime.
Art•i•facts This mosaic, from the City
Cemetery in Alessandria, Italy, is of the
resurrected Christ. The image decorates
part of an individual family chapel.
Mosaics are made by setting pieces of
stone, cut glass, or other materials into
a bed of adhesive. The earliest existing
examples of mosaics date from the
b c third millennium and were made using
stones, shells, and ivory. Mosaics were
first adopted for Christian use during the
fourth century and were used to decorate
church buildings.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (a mosaic of Jesus) Say: Notice that the
mosaic is made of many individual pieces of stone. When the pieces are put
together, they make an image of Jesus. Likewise, when we as individuals
work together and choose to follow God’s plan for us, we act as the one
Body of Christ. Point out the wounds in Christ’s hands. Say: This image is of
the resurrected Christ. Now we’re going to learn more about the Triduum,
which are the three days before Easter Sunday that help us most fully
prepare to celebrate the joy of Christ’s Resurrection on Easter Sunday.
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking
Jesus to help them prepare to celebrate his Resurrection.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 248 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud The Triduum.
Say: The word triduum comes from Latin. Ask: What does the word mean?
(three days) What are the three days of the Triduum? (Holy Thursday, Good
Friday, Holy Saturday) What Mass do we celebrate on Holy Thursday? (the
Mass of the Lord’s Supper) What do we remember at this Mass? (Jesus gave
himself in the gift of the Eucharist. Jesus showed love for his disciples by
washing their feet.) What can we do to follow Jesus’ example of love and
service? (Possible answers: help a brother or sister with homework, help a
neighbor who is elderly) What do we hear on Good Friday? (the story of
Jesus’ Passion) Why do we venerate the cross on Good Friday? (to help
us remember that Jesus died for our sins) What do we remember on Holy
EXPLORE
ART PRINT
20
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Art Print 20 is a mosaic of the resurrected Christ.
What can you do to prepare to celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection?
The Triduum The Triduum, which “three days,”
the most important days of the Church year.
Through them remember and celebrate
Jesus’ Paschal Mystery.
We begin the Triduum Holy Thursday
with the celebration of the Mass of the
Lord’s Supper. At this Mass remember
how Jesus gave himself in the gift of the
Eucharist. We also remember how Jesus
showed love for his disciples by washing
their feet. We called to follow Jesus’
example of love and service in lives.
On Good Friday listen to the story of Jesus’ Passion. We venerate,
show respect for, the in special way to help remember that
Jesus died for sins.
On Holy Saturday remember that Jesus buried in the tomb
after he died. During the Easter Vigil, wait to celebrate the glory
of Christ’s Resurrection Easter Sunday.
Celebrate the Triduum
Match each day of the Triduum with the correct description.
Saturday? (that Jesus was buried in the tomb after he died) What do we do
during the Easter Vigil? (wait to celebrate the glory of Christ’s Resurrection)
Read aloud Celebrate the Triduum. When children have finished the
activity, have partners compare their answers.
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Movement Lenten Journey Before the session make three separate prayer spaces, each
using symbols for one of the days of the Triduum. For example, you can use
bread or a chalice for Holy Thursday, a cross for Good Friday, and a candle
for Holy Saturday. As a group process to the prayer spaces for each day of
the Triduum. At each space review what we remember on that day, and then
pray aloud a prayer that reflects that day of the Triduum.
time: 25 minutes materials: prayer spaces with symbols for each day of the Triduum
Expression: Art Studio Triduum Paintings Have pairs of children brainstorm how they might
represent one of the days of the Triduum in a painting. Then distribute
watercolors or other painting supplies and invite children to paint a picture
that represents one of the days of the Triduum.
time: 30 minutes materials: watercolors or other painting supplies
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer
Preparing for Easter Give children time to study the Art Print. Tell children to imagine that they are alone with Jesus. Say: Take a moment
1. Holy Thursday
2. Good Friday
3. Holy Saturday
. We venerate the to help
remember that Jesus died for sins.
b. We remember how Jesus gave himself
in the gift of the Eucharist.
. We wait to celebrate the glory of
Christ’s Resurrection.
to talk with Jesus about what you can do to prepare to celebrate his
Resurrection. Ask: What do you say to Jesus? What does he say to you?
Give children time to pray silently.
time: 15 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 4 • Session 20
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The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
The Ten Commandments
A R T P R I N T 21
GraDe 4, Unit 5, session 21 Catechist Guide page 125
Faith Focus: God gave the Hebrews the
Ten Commandments to help them remain
faithful to the Covenant he made with them.
OutcOmes
� Describe the Covenant God made with
the Hebrews.
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 125 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Ask: What do you see in this image? (Moses receiving
m a t e r i a l s
� The Ten Commandments Art Print
� Children’s Book page 249
� Art supplies
t i m e
10–30 minutes
� Explain that following the Ten
Commandments helps us grow in
our relationship with God and with
one another.
� Define Covenant
About the Artist Marc Chagall can be
described as a Russian-French artist, a
Jewish artist, and a pioneer of modernism.
He is unique in that his works include a
wide array of artistic mediums: paintings,
book illustrations, glass, ceramic,
tapestries, and stage sets for the theater.
His work decorates the Opera House in
Paris, the New York Metropolitan Opera,
the United Nations building, and the
Vatican. Chagall is one of the few artists
whose work was exhibited at the Louvre
in their lifetime.
Art•i•facts Chagall is known for
working with various mediums. For Moses
receiving the Ten Commandments, he used
oil on canvas. He has included this subject
matter in various works using different
mediums. This particular painting hangs
in the Chagall museum in Nice, France.
Oil paintings are made by using colored
pigments bound with oil, such as linseed,
poppy seed, walnut, or safflower oil.
This medium was first used in western
Afghanistan between the fifth and
ninth centuries.
the Ten Commandments from God; angels, people, animals, a village) Who
are the other people? (the Hebrews) What do you notice about God and
about Moses? (Possible answers: They have blue eyes. They are wearing white
clothing.) Why might the artist have given them white clothes? (Possible
answer: White symbolizes purity and joy.)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for the gift of the Ten Commandments.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 249 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud God’s Covenant.
Ask: What did the Hebrews choose when they committed themselves to
following the Ten Commandments? (to belong to God in a special way)
Point out the vocabulary word. Ask: What did the Hebrews agree to do
when they entered into the Covenant with God? (to live in relationship with
him and with one another according to his instructions) How does God want
us to share his love with others? (by treating them with compassion and
respect) What can we do to help us remain faithful to this relationship?
(follow the Ten Commandments)
Read aloud Symbols of Your Relationship. Give children time to complete
the activity.
EXPLORE ART PRINT
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Movement The Hebrews’ Journey Arrange children into three groups. Assign
Art Print 21 is an image of God presenting Moses with the Ten Commandments.
What can you do to follow the Ten Commandments?
God’s Covenant When God’s Chosen People, the Hebrews,
committed themselves to following the
Ten Commandments, they chose to belong to
God in special way. God had set them free,
saved them from the Egyptian army, and taken
of them in the wilderness. In response the
Hebrews entered into Covenant, special
agreement, with God. They agreed to live in
relationship with him and with another
according to his instructions.
We also called to nter into special
relationship with God. He loves and want
to share his love with others by treating
them with compassion and respect. God has
given the Ten Commandments to help
remain faithful to this relationship.
Symbols of Your Relationship
The stone tablets which the
Ten Commandments written
symbolize the special relationship
God had with the Hebrews.
Design symbol that represents
your relationship with God.
one of the following Scripture passages to each group: Exodus 3:4–17; 7:14—
11:10; or 14:5–30. Ask groups to read their passages and then work together
to act them out.
time: 20–25 minutes materials: Bibles
Expression: Art Studio Moses on Mount Sinai Explain that many artists have made images of
Moses receiving the Ten Commandments from God and that Chagall
painted multiple pictures of this event. After distributing art supplies,
invite children to make their own illustrations of God giving the Ten
Commandments to Moses.
time: 25–30 minutes materials: art supplies
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer An Encounter with God Give children time to study the Art Print and to
imagine they are on Mount Sinai with Moses. Say: Take a moment to talk
with God and to thank him for giving us the gift of the Ten Commandments.
Share with him what you will do to practice them in your life. Conclude by
praying Amen
time: 5–10 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 5 • Session 2
21
©
250 www.findinggod.com
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
The American Church
A R T P R I N T 22
GraDe 4, Unit 5, session 22 Catechist Guide page 131
Faith Focus: The first three commandments
teach us to love God above all.
OutcOmes
u Explain that the First Commandment calls
us to worship God alone.
u State that the Second Commandment
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 131 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Ask: What do the first three commandments help
m a t e r i a l s
u The American Church Art Print
u Children’s Book page 250
t i m e
10–30 minutes
calls us to respect God’s name.
u Explain that the Third Commandment
calls us to keep holy the Lord’s Day.
u Define idolatry.
About the Artist Mark Baring, who was
born at Sanderstead in Surrey, England, is
known both as a visual and a performing
artist. Before he began his painting
career, Baring trained as a ballet dancer.
He danced for many years with the
International Ballet and the Anglo-Polish
Ballet. When he first began painting,
Baring copied the works of classical
painters. He later explored abstract
painting, through which he developed
a better sense of color and composition.
Baring’s works are primarily held in
collections in Europe.
Art•i•facts The American Church was
likely painted in oil on board and was
completed in 1984. It is part of a private
collection. The image underscores the
importance of worshiping together as a
community of faith.
us do? (grow in our relationship with God) How do they help us do this?
(Possible answer: They encourage us to worship God alone, to respect God’s
name, and to keep holy the Lord’s Day.) Say: How are the people in this
picture following these commandments? (Possible answer: They are keeping
holy the Lord’s Day by going to church.)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer asking
God to help them follow the first three commandments.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 250 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud Love and Worship
God. Ask: What does the First Commandment teach us to do? (to worship
God alone and not to worship false gods) What are examples of idolatry?
(valuing video games, cell phones, or the latest clothing more than we value
our relationship with God) What does the Second Commandment call us
to do? (respect God’s name) How can we honor God? (use his name with
reverence and love) Why do we speak one another’s name with respect?
(God has called each of us by name.) What does the Third Commandment
call us to do? (keep holy the Lord’s Day) What does the Eucharist give us the
strength to do? (serve others by performing acts of love and service)
Read aloud The Name of God. Give children time to complete the activity.
If TIme Allows
EXPLORE ART PRINT
22
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Art Print 22 is an image of a small country church.
Why is it important to worship together as a community?
Love and Worship God The first three commandments remind that
God calls to worship him above all else.
The First Commandment teaches to worship
God alone and not to worship false gods.
Worshiping false gods making
something important than God. This
is called••• • •• ••••• An example is valuing video
games, cell phones, the latest clothing
than value relationship with God.
The Second Commandment calls to respect
God’s We honor him by using his
with and love. We also honor the
of Mary, the saints, and the angels. God
has called each of by name. We speak
another’s with respect.
The Third Commandment calls to keep holy the Lord’s Day.
We gather together community of faith to celebrate the
Eucharist. We receive the Body and Blood of Christ, which gives
the strength to others by performing act of love and
service. We also rest minds and bodies.
The Name of God
Write what each for God tells about him.
1. Creator
2. Father
3. Holy One
4. Merciful Lord
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Music Gather Together Discuss the importance of gathering with the faith
community to celebrate the Eucharist. Say: When we gather together
to celebrate the Mass, we support one another on our faith journey.
Distribute hymnals with gathering songs commonly sung in your parish.
Invite small groups to choose a song and to practice singing it. After giving
groups time to practice, invite them to sing the songs.
time: 15–20 minutes materials: hymnals with gathering songs commonly sung in your parish
Expression: Art Studio
The First Three Commandments Emphasize the importance of following
the first three commandments. Say: There are many different ways we can
practice these commandments in our lives. Ask: What can we do to follow
them? (Possible answers: worship God, attend Mass, serve others) After
distributing art supplies, invite small groups to make murals that show
how people can follow the first three commandments.
time: 25–30 minutes materials: art supplies, mural paper or poster board
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer
My Church Community Give children time to reflect on the Art Print.
Say: Think about the last time you were at Mass. Ask: What did you see?
What did you hear? Were you able to smell flowers or incense? After giving
children time to reflect, say: Take a moment to have a conversation with
Jesus. Thank him for giving us the gift of himself in the Eucharist. Share
with him how much this gift means to you. Conclude by praying together
the Glory Be to the Father.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 5 • Session 22
©
Art Print 251
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Love Your Enemies
A R T P R I N T 23
GraDe 4, Unit 5, session 23 Catechist Guide page 137
Faith Focus: Jesus calls us to
forgive, love, and pray for our
enemies.
OutcOmes
� Paraphrase the Scripture
passage about Jesus’ call to
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 137 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Ask: What do you see in this painting? (a heart, white
m a t e r i a l s
� Love Your Enemies Art Print
� Children’s Book page 251
t i m e
10–30 minutes
love and forgive our enemies.
� Explain that we share God’s
ove with others when we
forgive them.
space, splotches of color) What do hearts symbolize? (love) Why might the
artist have placed the heart at the top of the piece? (Possible answer: to
express how important love is) What might the colors at the bottom of the
image symbolize? (Accept reasonable responses.)
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for the gift of his love.
About the Artist Jim Dine is an
American artist who was raised in the
Midwest. His body of works include
more than 3,000 paintings, drawings,
sculptures, prints, book designs, and
poems. Dine has also staged performance
pieces and art installations. Later in life,
Dine and his family moved to London,
England, where he focused on drawing,
printmaking, and sculpture. Dine’s works
are held in collections throughout the
world. He is known for a style that blends
both Pop Art and Abstract Expressionism.
Art•i•facts Dine’s piece, Untitled (8) I,
is an example of his unique style, in
which he blends Pop Art and Abstract
Expressionism. This piece was made by
using mixed media on acetate, which
is a synthetic film that results in a hazy-
looking image. Acetate was first made
in Switzerland by two brothers who
were doing chemical research. Cellulose
acetate has also been used to produce
photography and movie film, magnetic
computer tape, and material for clothing.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 251 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Point out that loving someone who has hurt us can
be difficult because we may be angry. Invite volunteers to read aloud
Love and Forgive Your Enemies. Ask: Why is it difficult to forgive people
who have hurt us? (Possible answers: because we are angry, because we are in
pain) What does Jesus say in the Scripture passage? (Love your enemies and
pray for those who persecute you.) Explain that persecute means “to punish or
cause to suffer.” Ask: What happens when we choose to share God’s love
with others by forgiving our enemies? (We grow closer to God and build up
his kingdom.) What can you do to show forgiveness to someone who has
hurt you? (Possible answer: offer a sign of peace to that person)
Read aloud Prayer of Forgiveness. Give children time to complete
the activity.
EXPLORE ART PRINT
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Music Loving and Forgiving Distribute hymnals with a version of Psalm 103,
Art Print 23 includes an image of a heart, a traditional symbol of love.
Is it difficult to love someone who has hurt you? Why?
Love and Forgive Your Enemies ed to forgive
bullied you
gotten you into trouble. Even though
it may difficult to do so, this is
exactly what Jesus calls to do.
You have heard that it was said,
‘You shall love your neighbor and
hate your enemy.’ But I say to you,
love your enemies, and pray for those
who persecute you, that you may be
children of your heavenly Father . . . .
Matthew 5:43–45
Not only called to forgive
people who hurt us Jesus also calls
to love them and pray for them.
When do this, choose to share
God’s love. We grow close to him
and build up his kingdom.
Prayer of Forgiveness
Write prayer in which you ask God to help you forgive
who has hurt you
such as “Loving and Forgiving.” Say: Loving and forgiving our enemies
can be a difficult task. We are called to do this, however, because it is a
way to give thanks to God for the mercy and compassion he shows us.
We can follow Jesus’ example to help us love and forgive others. Read
aloud the verses of the psalm. Discuss their meaning and then sing the
psalm together.
time: 15–20 minutes materials: hymnals with a version of Psalm 103
Expression: Art Studio
Heart Art After distributing the art supplies, say: The artist for this Art
Print chose to symbolize love by using a heart. There are many symbols we
can use for love and forgiveness. Ask children to make a piece of art that
uses symbols of love and forgiveness. Encourage children to make abstract
art and to use multiple mediums, such as crayons, markers, colored pencils,
or watercolors.
time: 25–30 minutes materials: art supplies of various mediums, such as crayons, markers, colored pencils, and watercolors
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer Share God’s Peace and Love Give children time to reflect on the Art Print.
Say: Take a moment to reflect on Jesus’ call to forgive, love, and pray for
our enemies. Talk with Jesus and ask him to give you the strength to do
this. Share with him what you can do to show others that you love and
forgive them. After giving children time to reflect, conclude the prayer by
praying together the Lord’s Prayer.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: none
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 5 • Session 23
23
©
Imagine being who
ask has
252 www.findinggod.com
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
The Promised Land
A R T P R I N T 24
GraDe 4, Unit 5, session 24 Catechist Guide page 143
Faith Focus: God wrote the message of the Covenant
on the heart of the Hebrews.
OutcOmes
� State that God gave the Hebrews the Ten
Commandments to help them remain faithful to the
Covenant he made with them.
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 143 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Say: Think about a time when you took a trip. Maybe
m a t e r i a l s
� The Promised Land Art Print
� Children’s Book page 252
t i m e
10–30 minutes
� Explain the heart of the Covenant God made with
the Hebrews: He will be their God and they will be
his people.
you went on a school field trip or a vacation with your family. Ask: How did
you feel the closer you got to your destination? (Possible answers: anxious,
happy, eager) Say: In this picture Moses is looking out over the Promised
Land after he and the Hebrews wandered in the desert for 40 years. Ask:
How do you think Moses and the people felt after seeing this new land for
the first time? (Possible answers: happy, excited)
About the Artist James Joseph Tissot
was born in 1836 in Nantes, France.
After having been educated at a Jesuit
boarding school, Tissot moved to Paris,
France, to study painting. It was in Paris
that Tissot met and became friends
with the Impressionist painter Edgar
Degas. In his 30s, Tissot traveled to Italy
and England to exhibit his works. Late
in his career, Tissot produced a series of
700 watercolor illustrations of stories
from the Bible and events in Christ’s life.
These religious works are known for their
detailed realism.
Art·i·facts Moses Sees the Promised
Land from Afar is gouache on board.
In this medium, colored pigments,
suspended in water, are combined with
a binding agent. Gouache differs from
watercolor in that gouache paints have a
heavier color saturation; the pigment-to-
water ratio is higher. Interestingly, lighter
gouache tones dry darker, and darker
tones dry lighter. This makes it difficult to
match colors when working on the same
piece over a period of time. This piece
is attributed to Tissot and Followers; it
is likely that Tissot designed the piece,
which was completed by his students.
Invite children to reflect on the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
God for everything he has given to us.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 252 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud God’s Promises.
Ask: What did God give to the Hebrews to help them remain faithful to the
Covenant? (the Ten Commandments) Where did Moses and the Hebrews
arrive after wandering in the desert for 40 years? (the land God had
promised to them) What did Moses do before the Hebrews entered this
new land? (He gathered them and spoke to them.) What did he tell them?
(that the Covenant God made with them was written on their hearts) What
did Moses tell the people would happen if they followed the Covenant and
obeyed the Ten Commandments? (God would bless them.)
Read aloud The Importance of the Ten Commandments. Give children
time to complete the activity.
EXPLORE ART PRINT
24
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Art Print 24 shows Moses looking toward the Promised Land after wandering
in the desert. How might you have felt seeing this land for the first time?
God’s Promises The Ten Commandments
not the only gift God gave to the
Hebrews to help them remain
faithful to the Covenant he
made with them. After 40 years
of wandering in the wilderness,
Moses and the Hebrews arrived
the land God had promised
to them.
Before they entered this land, Moses gathered the people and
spoke to them last time. He reminded them that the Covenant
God made with them written their hearts—God would be
their God, and they would be his people. Moses told the people
that God would bless them in their land if they followed the
Covenant and obeyed the Ten Commandments.
The Importance of the Ten Commandments
Imagine that you Moses writing in your journal. Write why it
is important to follow the Ten Commandments.
Link to Liturgy
When Moses spoke to the people, he reminded them that one way
to follow the Covenant was to live out the Ten Commandments.
At the end of Mass, we are reminded to live out the Covenant by
glorifying the Lord by our lives.
Link to Liturgy
After reading aloud this feature, ask: How can we can glorify the Lord by
our lives? (Possible answers: be kind to others, obey the Ten Commandments,
reach out to people who are sick or suffering)
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Movement Lead Us, Moses Remind children that in a procession, people reverently
move from one place to another while praying or reflecting. Say: Moses
and the Hebrews wandered in the desert for 40 years before arriving in the
Promised Land. God protected and cared for the Hebrews on their journey.
Now we are going to process to the church and spend some time before
the Blessed Sacrament to thank God for his many gifts. Ask children to
reflect on God’s promises to Moses and the Hebrews as they process. Say:
When we get to the church, kneel in the pew and spend time praying to
God, thanking him for everything he has given to you. Conclude by praying
together the Gloria
time: 25–30 minutes materials: none
Expression: Art Studio
Keep-the-Covenant Posters After distributing art supplies, invite children
to make Keep-the-Covenant posters in which they draw ways people can
keep the Covenant by obeying the Ten Commandments and following
Jesus’ example. Have children write titles and captions for their posters.
time: 25–30 minutes materials: art supplies
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 5 • Session 24
©
Art Print 253
The full-scale version of this teaching instruction appears on the Art Print easel.
Easter Morning
A R T P R I N T 25
GraDe 4, Unit 5, session 25 Catechist Guide page 149
Faith Focus: During the Easter season, we
celebrate the new life we receive through
Christ’s Resurrection.
OutcOmes
� Explain that during the Easter season, we
celebrate the new life we have received
CateChist DireCtions
1 Begin
After completing page 149 in the Children’s Book,
display the Art Print.
Briefly introduce and discuss the artwork, using
information from About the Artist and Artifacts.
Say: During Easter we celebrate the new life we
m a t e r i a l s
� Easter Morning Art Print
� Children’s Book page 253
� Art supplies
t i m e
10–30 minutes
through Christ’s Resurrection.
� State that we share in Christ’s peace
through membership in the Church and
through the sacraments.
receive through Christ’s Resurrection. This painting is of three women
walking together on Easter morning. Ask: During what season do we
celebrate Easter? (spring) What signs of new life do you see in this painting?
(growth in the fields, buds on the trees)
Invite children to reflect upon the artwork and to pray a silent prayer thanking
Jesus for the new life we receive through his Resurrection.
About the Artist Caspar David
Friedrich, who was born in Germany in
1774, is known as a German Romantic
landscape painter. As a student, Friedrich
studied at the Academy of Denmark. After
his studies Friedrich moved to Dresden,
Germany, where he first worked with
printmaking and etching. He later worked
with ink, watercolors, and oil paints. While
most artists gain fame only after they
die, Friedrich became famous early in his
career, but he had fallen into obscurity by
the time he died in 1840.
Art•i•facts Friedrich used oil on canvas
to paint Easter Morning. As in many of his
works, the artist uses specific elements to
express a religious message. In this piece
that message is hope and anticipation,
which is portrayed through the budding
new life. Some art critics have suggested
that the three women in the foreground
are representative of the three women
who were the first to discover Christ’s
empty tomb on Easter morning.
2 Connect
Have children turn to page 253 in their books. Read aloud the introduction
and discuss the question. Invite volunteers to read aloud Celebrate Easter.
Ask: What did God do after Jesus died? (He raised him from the dead.) What
did God reveal through the Resurrection? (that the power of his love is
stronger than the power of sin) How can we give thanks to God for the gift of
Christ’s Resurrection? (joyfully celebrate the Easter season by attending
Mass, praying, reading Scripture, sharing God’s love with others) When do we
share God’s love with others? (whenever we choose to follow God’s plan for
us, follow Jesus’ example of service, and practice the Ten Commandments)
Read aloud Share God’s Love. Give children time to complete the activity.
If TIme Allows
If time allows, complete one or more of the activities below.
Expression: Music
EXPLORE ART PRINT
For your convenience, the Children’s Book page is reproduced below.
Name Date
Share Peace, Share Love Remind children that when we share Jesus’ peace
with others, we also share God’s love with them. Say: Now we’re going to
listen to a song about sharing God’s love with others. Play a song about
people sharing God’s love with others, such as “Song of Love” [Finding God Art Print 25 is a scene of a spring morning with signs of new life. How can
you give thanks for the new life you have received through Christ’s Resurrection?
Celebrate Easter After Jesus died God raised him from
the dead. Through the Resurrection
God revealed that the power of his
love is stronger than the power of sin.
There many ways
give thanks to God for the gift of
Christ’s Resurrection. One is to
joyfully celebrate the Easter
by attending Mass, praying, and
reading Scripture. Another way is
to share God’s love with others.
We do this whenever choose to
follow God’s plan for us follow Jesus’
example of service, and practice the
Ten Commandments.
Share God’s Love
Draw picture
of yourself doing
something to share
God’s love with
others.
Grade 4 CD 2, Track 1]. After listening, say: I’m going to play the song
again. As I do, identify all the ways in which people share God’s love with
others. After listening, ask children to name how God’s love is shared.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: CD player; song about people sharing God’s love, such as “Song of Love” [Finding God Grade 4 CD 2, Track 1]
Expression: Art Studio A Scene of Hope and Joy After distributing art supplies, invite children to
paint a picture that represents the hope and joy we feel during the Easter
season. Say: Remember, during the Easter season we are joyful because we
have received new life through Christ’s Resurrection.
time: 25–30 minutes materials: paintbrushes, paints, paper
Expression: Using Imagination in Prayer On Easter Sunday Morning Give children time to reflect on the Art Print.
Then have children imagine that they, too, have gone to Jesus’ tomb and
found it empty. Say: Think about what you’re feeling as you walk to the
tomb. After you arrive, an angel appears and tells you that God has raised
What do you think and feel upon hearing this?
together a Gospel Acclamation your parish sings during Mass.
time: 10–15 minutes materials: Gospel Acclamation your parish sings during Mass
www.findinggod.com Grade 4 • Unit 5 • Session 25
25
©
Jesus from the dead. Ask: Say: Now thank Jesus for the new life we receive through him. Tell him one way you will share his gift of peace with others. Conclude by singing
254 www.findinggod.com
Answer Key
ART PRINT Name Date
Art Print 22 is an image of a small country church.
The first three commandments remind us that
God calls us to worship him above all else.
Worshiping false gods means making someone
or something more important than God. This
is called idolatry. An example is valuing video
games, cell phones, or the latest clothing more
than we value our relationship with God.
another’s names with respect.
Grade 4 • Unit 5 • Session 22
Art Print 20 is a mosaic of the resurrected Christ.
What can you do to prepare to celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection?
The Triduum, which means “three days,” are
the most important days of the Church year.
Through them we remember and celebrate
Jesus’ Paschal Mystery.
We begin the Triduum on Holy Thursday
with the celebration of the Mass of the
Lord’s Supper. At this Mass we remember
how Jesus gave himself in the gift of the
Eucharist. We also remember how Jesus
showed love for his disciples by washing
their feet. We are called to follow Jesus’
example of love and service in our own lives.
On Good Friday we listen to the story of Jesus’ Passion. We venerate,
or show respect for, the cross in a special way to help us remember that
Jesus died for our sins.
On Holy Saturday we remember that Jesus was buried in the tomb
after he died. During the Easter Vigil, we wait to celebrate the glory
of Christ’s Resurrection on Easter Sunday.
Match each day of the Triduum with the correct description.
b Holy Thursday
a Good Friday
c Holy Saturday
We venerate the cross to help us
remember that Jesus died for our sins.
c. We wait to celebrate the glory of
Christ’s Resurrection.
Grade 4 • Unit 4 • Session 20
Art Print 16 is an image of a mosaic that depicts Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
What do you think he would do if he lost one of his sheep?
When we sin, Jesus calls us to repentance and to seek God’s forgiveness
through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Jesus teaches us about his love
and care for us through the parable of the lost sheep.
What man among you having a hundred
sheep and losing one of them would not
leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go
after the lost one until he finds it? And when
he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders
I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you, in
just the same way there will be more joy in
heaven over one sinner who repents than
Luke 15:4–7
Use the code to solve the puzzle.
Grade 4 • Unit 4 • Session 16
Art Print 14 is an image of Mary. What can you do to follow Mary’s example
of love and service?
The flowers below have special meanings associated with Mary. The
violet, known as Our Lady’s Modesty, is associated with her humility.
Lily of the valley, known as Mary’s Tears, is a reminder of her sorrow
at Jesus’ Death. The hawthorn is referred to as Mary’s flower of May.
Violet Lily of the Valley Hawthorn
Match each flower to a quality of Mary’s or to an event in her life.
b violet
c lily of the valley
a hawthorn
Grade 4 • Unit 3 • Session 14
ART PRINT Name Date
Art Print 13 is an illustration of the parable of the forgiving father. How
does it feel to know that God is always ready to offer his love and forgiveness?
his property between the sons. Then the younger son left home. His father was sad to see him go, but the
son did not care. He wanted to be on his own so that he could
have a good time. He traveled to a distant country and spent his
money freely. Just as he ran out of money, a famine struck.
The son eventually found a job tending pigs. He had so little to
eat that he been some
his senses and decided to return home. He
knew that he had treated his father badly, and he wondered if
his father would forgive him.
When his father saw him approaching, he embraced him. The
son said, you.
be
The father, however, was so happy that his son returned that he
gave him
lost, been
Grade 4 • Unit 3 • Session 13
ART PRINT Name Date
Art Print 7 is an image of a man taking a risk by removing a thorn from a
lion’s paw. How does following the Beatitudes sometimes require taking risks?
Jesus gave us the Beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount. When we
choose to practice the Beatitudes, we choose to follow God’s plan
for us. Saint Jerome is an example of someone who chose to practice
the Beatitudes.
Jerome was born in the fourth century in a country that is now Croatia.
After he spent time studying Hebrew and Greek, the pope asked him
to translate the Bible into Latin, a language that many people knew.
Many pieces of art show Jerome working
while a lion rests nearby. This image is
inspired by a legend that is often told about
the saint. One day a lion came limping to
Jerome. The lion’s paw had a thorn in it.
Jerome removed the thorn and bandaged the
paw. The lion was grateful and chose to stay
and live at the monastery with Jerome and
the other monks.
Recall how Saint Jerome cared for the lion. Write how he practiced the
Beatitudes through his action.
Reading God’s Word
Psalm 73:1
Grade 4 • Unit 2 • Session 7
ART PRINT Name Date
Art Print 2 is an image of God, our Creator and Father.
Who or what has helped you learn about God?
We build up the Kingdom of God by choosing to follow God’s
plan for us. One way for us to learn about his plan is by reading
the Bible. The authors of the Bible wrote what God wants us to
know so that we can be saved.
Read Luke 3:21–22. Then write what the passage teaches us
about the relationship between God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Reading God’s Word
If you know me, then you will also know my
Father.
Grade 4 • Unit 1 • Session 2
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