The Catholic Toolbox: 2019

Monday, December 16, 2019

Special Events for January

*This month’s special events are:

Solemnity of Mary, The Holy Mother of God

churchyear.net- Mary Mother of God History, Information, Prayers, Resources, Traditions, & More

catholicculture.org- Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Holy Day of Obligation USA)

tiredtwang.blogspot.com- Mary, Mother of God coloring

fcpeace.com- Memory game on the feast of Mary

textweek.com- Lectionary, Scripture Study and Worship Links and Resources

The Catholic Toolbox- Mary is the Mother of Our Church lesson for 1st grade on up with: Objectives, Review, Vocabulary Words, Bible Story with questions, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Puzzles/Mazes/Worksheets, etc.

The Epiphany of the Lord

Matthew 2:1-12- activities, lessons, coloring, crafts, games, puzzles, quizzes, snacks, songs, etc.

thereligionteacher.com- Feast of the Epiphany in the Modern Day- Lesson Plan Activities

Wise Men- lesson plan for 1st grade on up with: Objectives, Review, Vocabulary Words, Bible Story with questions, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Puzzles/Mazes/Worksheets

Baptism of the Lord

Matthew 3:13-17 (The Baptism of Jesus)- activities, lessons, coloring, crafts, games, puzzles, quizzes, snacks, etc.

Baptism of Jesus File Folder Game- The object of the game is to get to the Baptism of Jesus first by answering questions and following directions on the spaces along the way.

Baptism of Jesus- Pre K – K lesson plan with: Objectives, Word Wall, Bible Story with questions, Songs and/or Finger Plays, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Coloring/Puzzles, Handwriting Sheets, Mini Books, etc.

Jesus is Baptized- lesson plan for 1st grade on up with: Objectives, Review, Vocabulary Words, Bible Story with questions, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Puzzles/Mazes/Worksheets

National Sanctity To Life Day

Pro Life Activities- Stumped for activities concerning Pro Life ? Here are a few that your students might enjoy.

4 pages of dominos

Look Who’s Growing Dominos- A fun way to educate young students that babies grow into adults to help promote Pro Life.

Look Who’s Growing- This game provides an entertaining way to educate students about pregnancy and fetal development to help promote Pro Life.

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Special Events for December

*This month’s special events are: Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary and Christmas and I have quite a number of activities for you to check out.

Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary

Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary - references, activities, coloring, crafts, games, lessons, puzzles, quizzes, songs, worksheets

Christmas

Christmas- activities, coloring, crafts, games, puzzles, etc.

Christmas Lapbooks- Here are some lapbooks that celebrate the meaning of Christmas. Download them for free and use what you want to make your own Christmas Lapbook.

12 Days of Christmas Lapbook- Here are the directions from various resources on how to do the lapbook. These can give you lots of great ideas to make your own.

12 Days of Christmas Memory Game- Print out 2 copies to play Memory.

Gifts for the Baby Jesus file folder game- The object of this game is to be the first to collect gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Birth of Jesus- (Pre K – K) lesson plan with: Objectives, Word Wall, Bible Story with questions, Songs and/or Finger Plays, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Coloring/Puzzles

Birth of Jesus- lesson plan for 1st grade on up with: Objectives, Review, Vocabulary Words, Bible Story with questions, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Puzzles/Mazes/Worksheets

Happy Birthday Jesus Party Activities- Are you looking for a special activity for your children’s ministry this Christmas? Then consider having a Jesus Birthday Party.

Monday, December 2, 2019

Gospel for the Mass: 1/12/20- Matthew 3:13-17 (The Baptism of Jesus)

*Be sure to check out Gospel for the Mass Year A page right below the header for other days that you need Gospel for the Mass activities.

Disclaimer: The posts below contain links to other websites and the content of these sites are evaluated before they are included. These websites can change without warning making links inactive and/or the content altered. We have no control over other websites and we are not responsible for the content that they post.

Matthew 3:13-17

Activities

catholicmom.com- Scroll down to the date for Coloring Page, Mass Worksheet, Crossword Puzzle, Word Search, etc.

catholickidsbulletin.blogspot.com- Download a FREE bulletin to help your kids learn more about our Catholic Mass. Each week's bulletin contains coloring pages for a saint and activities based on the Gospel. The coloring pages may also include a maze, dot-to-dot, find the picture, and many other activities.

loyolapress.com- Background on the Gospel and activities for groups and families

4catholiceducatiors.com- Resources on the Sunday Readings

sermons4kids.com- Growing In Faith object lesson with coloring pages, group activities, puzzles, quiz, craft, worship bulletin, etc.

sundayschoollessons.com- Jesus is Baptized by John in the Jordan River lesson

sundayschoollessons.com- Jesus is Baptized and Brings the Good News lesson

gardenofpraise.com- The Baptism of Jesus lesson with memory verse, questions, test, word search

dltk-bible.com- Jesus is Baptized lessons with discussions, take home sheets, color sheets, songs, crafts, snacks, etc.

ministry-to-children.com- Jesus’s Baptism and Significance (Matthew 3:1-17) Sunday School Lesson

ministry-to-children.com- Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:17) Preschool Sunday School Lesson

sundayschoolsources.com- Lesson with discussions, songs, crafts, games, questions, worksheets, memory work, etc.

The Catholic Toolbox- Baptism of Jesus Pre K – K- lesson plan consists of: Objectives, Word Wall, Bible Story with questions, Songs and/or Finger Plays, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Coloring/Puzzles, etc.

The Catholic Toolbox- Jesus is Baptized lesson plan for 1st grade on up which consists of: Objectives, Review, Vocabulary Words, Bible Story with questions, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Puzzles/Mazes/Worksheets, etc.

The Catholic Toolbox- What Can Teens Do For Gospel For The Mass Activities?

textweek.com- Lectionary, Scripture Study and Worship Links and Resources

Coloring

sermons4kids.com- Baptism of Jesus

sermons4kids.com- The Baptism of Jesus

sermons4kids.com- Jesus’ Baptism

first-school.ws- The Baptism of Jesus (with or without text)

applesaucekids.com- Jesus being baptized by John

churchpublishing.org- Matthew 3:13-17 (page 11)

Crafts

sermons4kids.com- I’m Proud of You group activities (crafts)

daniellesplace.com- John Baptizes Jesus Plastic Cup Craft

Taking Flight- A bird that can be a dove that you make out of white paper and using the child's handprints. (From the Hands of a Child by Anthony Flores, page 41).

sermons4kids.com- Dove Craft

enchantedlearning.com- Peace Dove craft

Heavenly Doves- Make soap-on-a-rope doves to remind the children how baptism symbolizes that are sins are washed away. (The Encyclopedia of Bible Crafts for Children by Group Publishing, page 101.) Note: You can use a slightly greased cookie cutter to help children make the soap into the shape of a dove. Or the children can just make it into any shape they want.

artisthelpingchldren.org- Tons of doves crafts posted here

auntiesbiblelessons.wordpress.com- Jesus is Baptized Craft
An interactive craft that has a dove hover over Jesus’ head.

jesus-without-language.net- Matthew 3
This is a more traditional craft for John the Baptist, it gives the wonderful illusion of water by using baking parchment to give the semi transparent quality of the river. It’s a really simple craft for any age and there are templates with and without the words showing for groups using different translations.

docthelmaskitchen.blogspot.com- Sunday School Baptism Craft (change this to Jesus being baptized)

Games

sermons4kids.com- I’m Proud of You group activities (games)

Jesus Basketball

Need: Trashcan and 2 balled up pieces of paper for balls

Introduce Game: Who did John baptize? (Jesus)

Directions: Put a trashcan against a wall. Have students line up in two teams behind a chair (to keep them from getting too close to basket). Students then play Horse Basketball, but spell Jesus. The first team that spells JESUS wins.

The Catholic Toolbox- Baptism of Jesus (file folder game)

The Catholic Toolbox- Sacrament of Baptism (file folder game)

Puzzles

More 365 Activities for Kids (do any of the Jesus and John the Baptist puzzles, mazes, dot-to-dot, spot the difference, etc. from August 16 - 17).

John Baptizes Jesus- Color the picture below according to the color code. There is something missing in the picture. Hint: It came from the sky. Draw the missing part. (Big Puzzles for Little Hands: Jesus' Life and Lessons by Carla Williams, page 22).

Jesus is Baptized (find the hidden pictures)- Hidden Pictures Explore Hidden Treasures in God’s Word (Grade 1 – 3) by Linda Standke, page 18.

dltk-bible.com- Jesus is Baptized puzzles (anagrams, crosswords, cryptogram, mazes, word-mining sheets, word searches)

gardenofpraise.com- The Baptism of Jesus (word search)

sermons4kids.com- The Baptism of Jesus from Matthew 3:13-17 (word search)

sermons4kids.com- The Baptism of Jesus from Matthew 3:17 (decoder)

gardenofpraise.com- The Baptism of Jesus (word scramble)

sermons4kids.com- The Baptism of Jesus (crossword)

gardenofpraise.com- The Baptism of Jesus (crossword)

sermons4kids.com- The Baptism of Jesus from Matthew 3:13-17 (crossword)

4catholiceducators.com- Crossword

web.archive.org- Crossword

Quizzes

gardenofpraise.com- The Baptism of Jesus (fill in the blanks with word bank)

sermons4kids.com- The Baptism of Jesus from Matthew 3:17 (fill in the blanks)

gardenofpraise.com- Matthew 3:14-15 (fill in the blanks)

Worksheets

smp.org- The Baptism of Jesus Worksheet

kindercrazeblogspot.com- Celebrating Baptism (worksheet)

cartoonchurch.com- Baptism Worksheet

tes.com- Baptism/Christening Worksheet and Info

concordiakids.blogspot.com- Baptism Activity Sheet (scroll down for this)

sdc.me.uk- My Baptism Worksheet

smp.org- Symbols of Baptism
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. It invites students to reflect on the significance of key symbols used in baptism.

smp.org- Interview Questions about Your Baptism
This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students ask the provided to questions to adults who can tell them about the details of that student's baptism. A reflection on the significance of the sacrament is done at the at end of the interview.

smp.org- Telling a Story of Baptism Worksheet

smp.org- My Baptismal History Worksheet

Your Baptism- Circle the things that were part of your Baptism celebration. Color the pictures. (100 Activities Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church by Ellen Rossini, page 16).

The Sacrament of Baptism- Circle the correct answer. (100 Activities Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church by Ellen Rossini, page 17).

web.archive.org- Baptism (worksheets)

This worksheet is free, however it is only to be used for classroom and personal use. It may not be published on any websites or other electronic media, or distributed in newsletters, bulletins, or any other form or sold for profit. Reproduction or retransmission of any materials, in whole or in part, in any manner, is not permitted. All graphics/images/clipart etc. used on these activities are not my own and are from various internet sources.

Baptism worksheet- Follow the directions and fill in the blanks below to find out what happens after you are baptized.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Gospel for the Mass: 12/29/19- Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23 (The Escape to Egypt, The Return from Egypt)

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Special Events for the Month- November

*This month’s special events are: All Saints Day/All Souls Day, & Thanksgiving, and I have quite a number of activities for you to check out.

All Saints Day/All Souls Day

All Saint’s Day/Feasts/Saints- references, activities, coloring, crafts, games, lessons, puzzles, quizzes, songs, worksheets, etc.

Thanksgiving

Christian Thanksgiving Ideas & Activities- lessons & activities, crafts, games

Saturday, October 5, 2019

Christian Halloween Crafts

Here are some really cute Christian Halloween crafts you can do at home or in your classroom.

daniellesplace.com- How To Make Crafts and Learning Activities Relating to Halloween and Fall

creativebiblestudy.com- Parable of the Pumpkin object lesson with crafts

christiancrafters.com- Pumpkin Prayer and other activities

pinterest.com- Pumpkin Prayer Crafts

happyhomefairy.com- A Christian Pumpkin Windsock Craft – FREE Printable!

pinterest.com- Christian Halloween

biblestudyprintables.com- Christian Halloween Crafts

teacherspayteachers.com- Candy Corn Trinity Craft (FREE)

teachingwithtlc.com- Using candy corn to teach the Trinity (craft)

Friday, September 20, 2019

Good Neighbor Game

This game is free, however it is only to be used for classroom and personal use. It may not be published on any websites or other electronic media, or distributed in newsletters, bulletins, or any other form or sold for profit. Reproduction or retransmission of any materials, in whole or in part, in any manner, is not permitted. All graphics/images/clipart etc. used on all activities are not my own and are from various internet sources.

Good Neighbor Game- Players cruise around the board answering question about how to be a good neighbor. The first player to FINISH with the most Good Deed tokens wins the Good Neighbor Award.

National Good Neighbor Day is observed annually on September 28. This day was created to acknowledge and celebrate the importance of a good neighbor.

To celebrate National Good Neighbor Day, do something nice for your neighbor today. Use #GoodNeighborDay to post on social media.

A good neighbor is one who is there for his or her neighbors. God does not use the term lightly, nor does He restrict it to one’s local community. A good neighbor is one who helps and serves in good times and bad.

You may be surprised that the Bible has much to say about neighbors. In fact, Jesus presented an entire parable to show how important it is to be neighborly; and not only that, He showed how being a good neighbor figures into inheriting eternal life!

A lawyer asked Jesus what he needed to do to receive eternal life. Jesus answered him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?” He said in reply, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:26-27). Or: One of the scribes, when he came forward and heard them disputing and saw how well he had answered them, asked him, “Which is the first of all the commandments?” Jesus replied, “The first is this: ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:28-31

What kind of neighbor do you want to be? If you’re going to be a good neighbor, what does that entail? Remember is that not everyone in our neighborhood will be like us, which means it is important to get to know the people in our neighborhoods. Learning about and getting to know our neighbors can help us become better neighbors.

It is a blessing to have a good neighbor, but it is even a greater thing to BE a good neighbor. Good neighbors often become friends. They watch out for each other, lend a helping hand and are there for advice when asked. Neighbors offer that cup of sugar when we are short, collect our packages when we are on vacation, watch our homes and sometimes watch our children and our pets. Simply put, being a good neighbor makes good neighbors and develops lifelong friendships.

Are you a good neighbor? See if you are a good neighbor by playing “Good Neighbor Game”. It’s a fun activity that you can play as a family to help teach your children to be a good neighbor as well. Enjoy!

Directions:

Separate cards and tokens and put in 3 small baskets near the game board. Place your marker on START. Determine who goes first and play moves clockwise. The player to your left draws a SITUATION card and reads it out loud. On the cards are situations that you must state what you should do as a good neighbor would do. If you answer the question correctly, you roll the die and move the number indicated on the die. If you are not correct, you stay where you are and try again on your next turn. If the player lands on a CHANCE space, they draw a CHANCE card and read it out loud. The player then must do what the card says (move forward, move back or lose a token). If a player lands on GOOD DEED they receive a Good Deed token for doing a good deed for their neighbors which in turn will hopefully spread more acts of kindness throughout the neighborhood. If a player lands on a space that another player is on, be a good neighbor and take the nearest space behind them that is not occupied. The first player to FINISH with the most Good Deed tokens wins the Good Neighbor Award.

Preparation:

1. Print out game board and game instructions.

2. Cut out game board and game instructions and trim where needed.

3. Label a file folder with the name of the game on the tab.

4. Glue the game instructions that are attached to the front of the file folder.

5. Open the folder and glue the game board down in the appropriate spots (left side/right side).

6. Store game pieces in a plastic bag for safe keeping. Playing pieces can be coins, colored buttons, game pieces from other games, fish rocks for the bottom of aquariums, craft foam cut into shapes, glass rocks for vases, etc. You can paint small objects such as rocks, small plastic tops or caps, etc. You can also buy pawns at game stores. Use only one (1) die for this game.

7. Open the folder and laminate or cover with clear contact paper to make it last.

8. Use these cards or make your own. Print out SITUATION cards on light blue card stock. Print out CHANCE cards on light yellow card stock.

9. Print out several pages of GOOD DEED tokens on card stock.

10. Cut out cards and tokens. Laminate or cover with clear contact paper to make them last. Store them separately in plastic bags.

*Use the Game Cards that are provided or make your own. You can also make cards specific to what you have been learning in your classroom.

Good Neighbor Game- Directions, Game Board, Chance Cards, Situation Cards, Good Deed Tokens

Special Events for October

*This month’s special events are: Respect Life Sunday, Our Lady of the Rosary, World Mission Sunday, and I have quite a number of activities for you to check out.

Respect Life Sunday

Pro Life Activities- Stumped for activities concerning Pro Life? Here are a few that your students might enjoy.

Look Who’s Growing Dominos- A fun way to educate young students that babies grow into adults to help promote Pro Life (4 pages of dominos).

Look Who’s Growing- This game provides an entertaining way to educate students about pregnancy and fetal development to help promote Pro Life.

Our Lady of the Rosary

The celebration of this day invites all to mediate upon the mysteries of Christ, following the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary who was so singularly associated with the incarnation, passion and glorious resurrection of the Son of God.

catholicculture.org- Catholic Activity: Our Lady of the Rosary

catechistjourney.loyolapress.com- Free Rosary Powerpoint

americancatholic.org- Our Lady of the Rosary

Rosary- references, activities, coloring, crafts, games, puzzles, worksheets

tiredtwang.blogspot.com- Our Lady of the Rosary (coloring)

fcpeace.com- Memory game on the feast of Mary

World Mission Sunday

childrensministry.com- Teaching Kids About Missions: Object Lesson

dba.net- Mission Games & Activities

wycliffe.org- “Sunday School with Kate & Mack” is a five-week lesson plan that travels around the world with Kate — a Wycliffe missionary kid — and her best friend, Mack. Beginning with the concept that the Bible is an adventure book, these lessons take your kids to a different country and language group each Sunday! They’ll learn about God’s amazing love for each one of us and how he wants everyone to hear about that love through the Bible in their own language.

propfaith.net- A Program for Mission Awareness for World Mission Sunday and Mission Month (Grades K – 12)

wearezoe.org- Mission Activities for Children

truthforkids.com- Mission Awareness Booklet
A 12-page activity booklet to make children aware of the important role of a missionary. Downloadable and easy to make.

desiringgod.org- 10 Ways to Help Kids Love Missions

ministry-to-children.com- Preschool Bible Lesson about Missions

sandiegomissionoffice.org- Mission Activity Ideas
This resource will assist leaders to bridge games and activities into helping children discover the needs of people around the world and in responding to those needs. This resource will also encourage children in a commitment to Christ as well as their growth as Christians.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Mass Etiquette

When people think of Mass etiquette, probably what comes to mind most are the obvious: having cell phones turned off, no chewing gum, keeping quiet etc. While these are valid points to remember, Mass etiquette is not only a listing of “do's and dont’s” but an invitation to all who come to church to remember where they are and to act accordingly.

Here are a few links about proper etiquette in Mass that might be useful that you can use in your classroom or home.

aggiecatholicblog.org- Mass Etiquette: 20 Things To Do And Not Do In Mass

st.hohnthebaptistcc.org- Catholic Etiquette

saintcatherineparishnh.com- Etiquette for Holy Mass

catholic.org- Church Etiquette Review

Mass Etiquette: Most Frequently Asked Questions- Lots of people are confused by the Do’s and Don’ts during Mass. Here are a few questions with answers that might be of some help.

catholic365.com- Forgotten Mass Etiquette

quizlet.com- Mass Etiquette Flash Cards

quizlet.com- Catholic Mass and Etiquette Flash Cards

Church & Respect- lesson on why and how to act in church and what it means to respect others (parents, teachers, etc.). Lesson consists of: Objectives, Review, Vocabulary Words, Bible Story with questions, Activities, Crafts, Games, Snacks, Puzzles/Mazes/Worksheets, etc.

Coloring

lds.org- 2 worksheets- Circle the pictures that show children praying reverently. Cross out the pictures that show what we should not do while praying. Color the pictures of the children who are dressed for church. Cross out the pictures of children who are not dressed for church. (scroll down to these)

dltk-bible.com- Mind Your Manners (black and white version to color)

Games

These games are free, however they are only to be used for classroom and personal use. They may not be published on any websites or other electronic media, or distributed in newsletters, bulletins, or any other form or sold for profit. Reproduction or retransmission of any materials, in whole or in part, in any manner, is not permitted.

The Holy Mass Game- Directions and questions. (This game is in accordance with the new Roman Missal that is to be implemented on November 27, 2011.)

Actions Speak Louder Than Words Game- A fun review game about actions during Mass. (This game is in accordance with the new Roman Missal that is to be implemented on November 27, 2011.)

What ever happened to good manners in church?- Find out if you know how to behave in church. Roll the die and move that many spaces. Follow the directions on the space you land on. If the space has a Roll Play activity on it, perform it to the best of your ability. If needed, the teacher will help you understand what to do and coach you how to do it correctly. If the space has a picture of person reacting to bad behavior that they had just seen in church, draw a Game Card and read it out loud (if the student cannot read, the teacher or someone can read it for them). Answer the question to the best of your ability (the teacher can coach the student if necessary).

Puzzles, Mazes, Worksheets:

dltk-bible.com- Church and Respect Puzzles (anagrams, crosswords, cryptogram, maze, word-mining sheets, word searches, etc.)

lds.org- 2 worksheets- Circle the pictures that show children praying reverently. Cross out the pictures that show what we should not do while praying. Color the pictures of the children who are dressed for church. Cross out the pictures of children who are not dressed for church. (scroll down to these)

dltk-bible.com- Mind Your Manners (black and white version to color and circle)

These activities are free, however they are only to be used for classroom and personal use. They may not be published on any websites or other electronic media, or distributed in newsletters, bulletins, or any other form or sold for profit. Reproduction or retransmission of any materials, in whole or in part, in any manner, is not permitted.

The Church is God’s House (for younger students)- Ask your child the following questions about the lesson today and have them circle the answer.

Behavior In Mass- Draw a smile face next to the good things to do during Holy Mass. Draw a sad face next to the things not to do during Holy Mass.

Mass Etiquette Worksheet- Write True or False in the spaces provided.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Mass Etiquette: Most Frequently Asked Questions

Lots of people are confused by the Do’s and Don’ts during Mass. Here are a few questions with answers that might be of some help.

1- Are Catholics supposed to hold hands during Our Father?

ewtn.com- Answer

2- Are Catholics supposed to shake hands during the sign of peace?

vatican.va.- General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 82: "As for the sign of peace to be given, the manner is to be established by Conferences of Bishops in accordance with the culture and customs of the peoples. It is, however, appropriate that each person offer the sign of peace only to those who are nearest and in a sober manner."

3- Do Catholics have to go to Confession first before they receive Holy Communion?

catholic.com- The 1983 Code of Canon Law indicates that the same requirement applies today. “A person who is conscious of a grave sin (mortal) is not to . . . receive the body of the Lord without prior sacramental confession unless a grave reason is present and there is no opportunity of confessing; in this case the person is to be mindful of the obligation to make an act of perfect contrition, including the intention of confessing as soon as possible” (CIC 916).

4- How long must a Catholic fast before Holy Communion? Are there any exceptions?

ewtn.com- One who is to receive the Most Holy Eucharist is to abstain from any food or drink, with the exception only of water and medicine, for at least the period of one hour before Holy Communion. Those who are advanced in age or who suffer from any infirmity, as well as those who take care of them, can receive the Most Holy Eucharist even if they have taken something during the previous hour.

5- Does chewing gum break the fast before Holy Communion?

ewtn.com- Chewing gum as such would not break the fast but swallowing the juices and flavors released by the chewing process would do so.

6- Can Non-Catholic Christians be admitted to sacramental communion in the Roman Catholic Church?

catholic.com- Answer

7- Can the Eucharist be carried on their person, in a pocket or purse or even reserved in the home?

ewtn.com- Canon 935. No one is permitted to keep the Eucharist on one’s person or to carry it around, unless pastoral necessity urges it and the prescripts of the diocesan bishop are observed.

8- Is talking in Church when not demanded by necessity wrong?

catholicnews.com- Answer

9- If people arrive to Mass late due to culpable negligence, and especially if they do so habitually, is it considered a sin?

ewtn.com- Answer

10- What should one do if they drop the Body of Christ or the Blood of Christ? What should one do if they spill the Blood of Christ on their clothes?

buchholzins.com- Answer

11- Does the Body of Christ need to be consumed immediately?

catholiceducation.org- Communion should not be received on the run, as you’re walking back to your place; it should be consumed before you leave the area below the altar.

ewtn.com- The Eucharist must be consumed immediately and before the priest, deacon or extraordinary minister of Holy Communion.

12- Is it a sin to leave Mass right after receiving communion before the closing prayers?

fathercarroll2009.blogspot.com- Answer

courageouspriest.com- Answer

ewtn.com- Answer

13- If a Catholic comes late to Mass can they receive Holy Communion?

ewtn.com- Answer

14- Why must we kneel on our knees during Mass without leaning back on the pew? Are there any exceptions?

catholic.org- Respect for the Eucharist demands that we kneel on our knees without leaning back on the pew. If you are ill or disabled, it is acceptable to sit instead of kneeling.

15- Is it considered a sin if we do not go to Mass?

scborromeo.org- The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. For this reason the faithful are obliged to participate in the Eucharist on days of obligation, unless excused for a serious reason (for example, illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their own pastor. Those who deliberately fail in this obligation commit a grave sin (CCC 2181).

16- Do I commit a mortal sin if I do not attend Mass on Holy Days of obligation?

catholichome.webs.com- Yes. On Holy Days of obligation Catholics are obliged to go to Mass as on Sundays. The Holy Days of obligation which fall on days other than Sunday are Christmas, New Years, The Immaculate Conception (Dec. 8) the Ascension Thursday (though many Bishops have transferred it to Sunday), the Assumption of Mary into heaven (Aug. 15).

Given how precious the Mass is plus the Old Testament precedent which was rightly adapted by the Church, the Code of Canon Law (#1246) proscribes, "Sunday is the day on which the paschal mystery is celebrated in light of the apostolic tradition and is to be observed as the foremost holy day of obligation in the universal Church." Moreover, "On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are bound to participate in the Mass..." (#1247). Therefore, the Catechism teaches, "Those who deliberately fail in this obligation commit grave sin" (#2181), and grave sin is indeed mortal sin. Recently, our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, repeated this precept in his apostolic letter Dies Domini (Observing and Celebrating the Day of the Lord, #47, 1998).

Are there any other questions that you can think of that I could add to this list?

Friday, September 13, 2019

Life Size Game Boards

Lifesize Monopoly at Brownsburg Public Library

The next time you play a game using a game board, do something totally different, try doing a life size game board. You can do them in your classroom, gym, parking lot, field, wherever you have room. It is a great way to review what you do in class! You can even get the students involved and help you make the game board. The possibilities are endless! It is an enlightening experience that your students will enjoy and never forget.

How to do life size board games:

bookblather.net- Life Size Monopoly (with entire file you can download)

literarylibrariankim.blogspot.com- Life Size Monopoly (with directions on how to make it and rules to play the game

thereligionteacher.com- The Human Board Game to Review for Exams

ponyexpresscubs.blogspot.com- Human Size Board Games

pinterest.com- Life Size Games

pinterest.com- Live Action Board Games

pinterest.com- Life Size Games

mentalfloss.com- Life Size Versions of Popular Board Games

oddee.com- 10 Uber Cool Life-Sized Games

wideopeneats.com- These 10 DIY Backyard Games Will Keep the Party Outside

youthdownloads.com- Life Size Board Games

thespruce.com- 15 Yard Games You Can DIY

makezine.com- How-To: Make a Big-As-Life Board Game

summercamppro.com- How to Create a Life-Size Candy Land Game

slj.com- Creating a Life-Size 'The Game of LIFE' for Teen Read Week

youthunlimited.org- How to Make & Play Life Size Pac-Man Game

blog.teacherspayteachers.com- Life-Size Board Games for Teaching Multiple Concepts

wunder-mom.com- Best Ever Backyard Games – Giant Boardgames for the Whole Family

livingonthecheap.com- Giant Backyard Games You Can Build Yourself

thefrozenlibrarian- Life Size Sorry Board Game

makeandtakes.com- 15 DIY Lawn Games to Make

mycupoverflows-johnson.blogspot.com- Life Size Trouble Game

Monday, September 9, 2019

How To Review Material

You just completed a chapter with your class and you need to review it to make sure your students understand it and/or get them ready for a test. What should you do? How can you make it interesting and fun and the students will learn? Try to incorporate a game to review the material in your classroom. There are lots of ways to review. Here is a game I use quite frequently since the students enjoy it so much and it really helps to review what we have been doing in class.

Review Game

The objective of the game is to be the first player to score 10 points. Have a player roll the die on the floor in front of the class. If the die lands on a blank space, they do not answer a question. If the die lands on “?”, they are asked a question by the teacher. If the player answers correctly, they receive a point (you can use tokens, write it on the board, etc.). If they are not correct, they do not receive a point. The first player to score 10 points is the winner. You can play this game individually or in teams. For an added challenge, you can also have “Lose 1 Point” and “Take 1 Point” on a side of the die. When a player rolls “Lose 1 Point”, they must lose 1 point. If a player rolls “Take 1 Point”, they may take a point from any player they choose.

Make a die out of a large juice carton and put a ? mark on some (at least 3) of the sides of the die.

Here are some other games that you might find useful:

Baseball

Divide the class into two teams. Establish in the classroom, a first base, second base, third base, and home. Determine in advance how many innings will be played. Team #1 is up at bat first and line up along the chalkboard. The first player is asked a question from the teacher, if they are correct, they advance to first base. If they are incorrect, they go to the end of the line and it counts as an out. The second batter is then asked a different question. Each correct answer allows the batter to advance one base. The game continues like baseball until there are three outs. After three outs, Team #2 has their turn at bat. Whichever team has the most runs, wins.

Basketball

Need: one small ball (or two balled up pieces of paper), two chairs, one trashcan.

Directions: Put a trashcan against a wall. Divide the class into two teams. Have students line up in two teams behind a chair (to keep them from getting too close to basket). Ask the first person in Team #1 a question. If they are correct, they get to try to make a basket. If they make a basket, their team gets a point. If they do not get a basket, their team does not receive a point. After the first player has his turn, he then goes to the end of Team #1’s line. It is now Team #2’s turn. The team with the most points wins.

Tic Tac Toe

This game is for 2 players or you can divide your class into 2 teams. Draw a large tic tac toe grid on the chalk board. Establish which team will be X and which team will be O. Ask Team #1 a question. If they are correct, they get to put an “X” or an “O” on the tic tac toe grid. If a team is unable to answer a question, the other team may have an opportunity to answer it and score an "X" or "O". If no one is able to answer the question, play continues as before. The first player or team to get three in a row wins!

Last Man Standing

All students stand at their desk. Start at the first row and work your way around the room and ask a question to the students. If they answer the question correctly, they remain standing. If they are not correct, they sit down. If they miss the question, anyone from the class can guess. The “Last Man Standing” wins.

Are You Smarter Than A CCD Teacher?

Need: 2 pieces of paper, 2 pencils, coin, chalk board, chalk

Directions: Name a topic/subject that both the CCD Teacher and students are familiar with (this game would be great for a review of a lesson). Give a piece of paper and a pencil to the CCD Teacher and to the students. The students and the teacher will write down 10 questions with answers on their paper about the subject. Flip a coin to find out who goes first. Whoever wins the toss reads a question to the other(s). If they answer correctly, they get the point and someone keeps score on the board. If they are not correct, who ever asked the question gets the point. Continue until all questions have been asked and answered. Whoever has the most points wins.

True or False

Need: 2 containers, one marked T and the other marked F

Ask each student a True or False question. Have the student carry an object and put it into the correct container to answer the question. They can use a large spoon, two chopsticks, salad tongs, an object between their knees and walk with it to the containers and drop it inside, balance it on their nose or on top of their head and drop it into the container, etc.

Bingo- Just Google “Make Your Own Bingo Cards” and find tons of sites to create your own Bingo game.

Life Size Game Boards- The next time you play a game using a game board, do something totally different, try doing a life size game board. You can do them in your classroom, gym, parking lot, field, wherever you have room. It is a great way to review what you do in class!

Free PowerPoint Games- Make your own PowerPoint game (Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?, Password, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?, Twenty Questions, Guess The Covered Word, variations of the game Hollywood Squares, Weakest Link, Concentration, etc.) to review material and play it with your students.

FREE Catholic Games- Lots of games to review any subject or just change the game to fit your own needs.

thereligionteacher.com- Review Games (scroll down for these)

teach4theheart.com- 7 Review Games that Won’t Waste Your Time

educationworld.com- Reviving Reviews: Refreshing Ideas Students Can't Resist | Review Games

teachhub.com- Fun Review Activities, Classroom Games to Do Now

weareteachers.com- 11 Vocab Review Games to Make the Learning Stick

onestopteachershop.com- Using Active Review Games In The Classroom

interventioncentral.org- Games, Contests & Puzzles: Entertaining Ideas for Educating Students

iteslj.org- Ten Ways to Turn Lessons into Games

The following games are from teachersnetwork.org

Bounce Back

Bounce Back is a game that my student teacher, Russ Deets, and I created one day in desperation, when we decided that our students needed something new and exciting to do. Here is how it works: We divided the class into two groups. The students organized their groups so that each student had a number. Then we asked a question of the first student in group A. That student could answer for 5 points or he/she could bounce the question back to student 1 in group B. The student in Group B (student 1) would either answer for 5 points or bounce it back to student 1 in group A. If student 1 got it right they would get 10 points.

Then the challenge went to the 2nd student in each group – but group B got to start the next time. The kids love the game because they get to take chances, trying to earn more points by “bouncing” the questions back.

Bluff

This is a great game that is also played by many departments in my school. Again the class is divided into two groups. The teacher takes turns giving each group a question. When the teacher gives a question to group A, all the students who think they know the answer stand up. Then, the students in group B get to decide which of the students in group A should answer the question. If the selected student can answer the question, that group gets as many points as the number of people who stood up, but if the student cannot answer the question, then group B gets to answer (any student in that group can answer) and group B will get the same number of points. The fun part of this game is that student try and bluff the other team into thinking that they know the answer so they can push their points up! The teacher then alternates the teams who get to answer the question first.

How do you review material in your classroom? Share your best games that you use to review or drill material. Please comment and I will add it to the post.

Thursday, September 5, 2019

How Can You Keep Your Child Occupied During Mass?

You are in church and your child is having a hard time keeping still and being quiet. What can you do?

Behavior Expectations- Does your child know how he/she is expected to behave during Mass? When establishing rules you should identify behavioral expectations for your children. Tips and examples posted that can be used for one child or several.

Visual Schedules- Having a chart or visual schedule displayed of what they are going to do and activities in advance can provide security and keep inappropriate behavior down to a minimum.

Behavior Contracts and Behavior Charts- Steps for Developing, Implementing, and Monitoring

Good Behavior Classroom Strategies & Games- These suggestions can be used with one child or with a group.

Social Stories For Church- Social stories are an effective method of providing both guidance and direction to promote self-awareness, self-calming, and self-management in responding to social situations. The technique involves creating a short story that describes the situation and includes appropriate actions and expressions. By creating a short story, the situation is described in terms of relevant social cues, anticipated actions and information on what is occurring and why. The stories are written according to specific guidelines based on Gray’s extensive use of this technique. The story is also customized for the individual and their circumstance.

Children at Mass- Suggestions and tips

DIY Mass Bag- Do you have problems getting your kids to behave during Mass? Well, Alicia at through-my-is.blogspot.com came up with a great idea for this problem that might help you.

Free Religious Coloring Pages- Free and printable

Free Children’s Worship Bulletins- Have your child do these activities that correlate with the day’s Gospel Reading.

Free Catholic Printables- Worksheets, Games, Bulletins, Puzzles, Booklets, etc.

Behavior at Mass Worksheet- Draw a smile face next to the good things to do during Holy Mass. Draw a sad face next to the things not to do during Holy Mass.

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

Fill In Activities

Fill In Activities:

Your lesson is done, the students have finished with all their activities and there are a few more minutes until class is over. Or these infamous scenarios crop up: schedules get disrupted for one reason or another or the dismissal bell has ten more minutes to go. The minutes slowly tick by and meanwhile your students are getting restless and total mayhem will surely result if something doesn’t happen and soon. This phenomenon happens all too often and it is enough to fill any teacher's heart with fear. How do you keep your class occupied and keep them productively engaged? While many teachers immediately pull out busy work or drills, it is much better to try to keep the class on its toes with learning games and activities. Here are a few teacher tested fillers that can help you avoid a classroom revolt.

Liturgical Objects Used In Mass- Several games to help review liturgical objects used in Mass.

People At Church- Who are the people at church? What do they do? Here are a few games for students to learn about the people at church.

Ten Commandments File Folder Game- The objective of the game is to identify which one of the Ten Commandments the sin broke.

WWJD?- Making the right decisions in life is hard to do, but if you let Jesus be your guide and think, “What Would Jesus Do?” it will make it a lot easier.

Moral Dilemmas Card Game- Why do problems come into our life? People face problems every day. Some are harder than others. There are many choices that the person can have to solve his/her problem, but which one is the best? What would Jesus want us to do? Here is a game that has students try to solve their problems the best way. (Scroll down to this.)

Activities, Games, etc. for Prayers and Scriptures- ideas to help your students memorize prayers and scriptures

Bible Story Review- Review the Bible stories that the students have done using these games. Several different kinds are posted.

Disciples Memory Game or Go Fish Game- A fun way to review the names of the disciples

The Holy Mass Game- Directions and questions (scroll down to this game)

Actions Speak Louder Than Words Game- A fun review game about actions during Mass (scroll down to Games)

Friday, August 30, 2019

Cranium Catholic Edition

This game is free, however it is only to be used for classroom and personal use. It may not be published on any websites or other electronic media, or distributed in newsletters, bulletins, or any other form or sold for profit. Reproduction or retransmission of any materials, in whole or in part, in any manner, is not permitted.

*All graphics/images/clipart etc. used on this game are not my own and are from various internet sources.

Cranium Catholic Edition is based on the game Cranium.

Cranium Catholic Edition- For 2 teams of 2 or more players. If you are a large group, you can divided into as many as 4 teams as long as each team has 2 players. The game is longer, but just as fun! The Cranium Catholic Edition Game is outrageously fun and gives players a chance to show off their talents. Players team up to cruise around the board completing activities in 4 color-coded categories.

Directions:

Each team chooses a marker and places it on the Planet Cranium space labeled START. On your first turn and on every time you are on a Planet Cranium space, your team can choose from any of the 4 character cards: Creative Cat (blue), Data Head (red), Star Performer (green), and Word Worm (yellow). The team to your right draws your card and reads it out loud. Then they turn over the timer and your team must successfully complete the activity before the time runs out. After successfully completing an activity, you roll the die at the end of your turn. You must though, stop at every Planet Cranium- even if your roll would otherwise take you past it. The color of the space your marker lands on matches the color of the Cranium activity card you will play on your next turn. If you are not successful, you stay where you are and wait until your next turn to try again. If you roll purple, zoom straight ahead to the next Planet Cranium. When the die lands on white, the teacher reads an All Play card aloud and all teams try to answer the question. The first team to shout out the correct answer before time runs out wins an Instant Bonus Roll. After an All Play card is played, the winner takes one bonus roll and moves. Then the team whose turn is was when the All Play card was drawn takes its regular turn. To win, enter the Cranium Circle on a roll at the end of a turn. On your next turn, the other team collectively chooses a character card for your final activity. If you are unsuccessful, you can try again on your next turn. If your team is the first to successfully complete an activity in Cranium Central, congratulations! You won Cranium!

Creative Cat (blue)- A player must clue a word to his or her teammates by drawing it, sculpting it in clay, or drawing it with their eyes closed.

Star Performer (green)- Players must hum a prayer or song, impersonate a character from the Bible, or act out a clue.

Word Worm (yellow)- Players unscramble words, spell challenging words, guess definitions, or spell words backwards.

Data Head (red)- A variety of Catholic trivia questions.

All Play (white)- A assortment of difficult Catholic questions all teams compete at the same time to win an Instant Bonus Roll.

Preparation:

Need- 5 small baskets, markers (one for each team), timer (1 minute), 1 can of play dough, paper and pencils, 1 die (place colored stickers on 5 sides of the die- blue, green, yellow, red, and purple. Place a white sticker on the other side).

Playing pieces can be coins, colored buttons, game pieces from other games, fish rocks for the bottom of aquariums, craft foam cut into shapes, glass rocks for vases, etc. You can paint small objects such as rocks, small plastic tops or caps, etc. You can also buy pawns at dollar stores.

Print out cards on colored card stock. Laminate or cover with clear contact paper to make them last. Creative Cat (blue), Word Worm (yellow), Star Performer (green), Data Head (red), All Play (white). Store cards in individual Ziplock bags until ready for use.

Print out Game Board and glue on the inside of a file folder. Laminate or cover with clear contact paper to make it last.

*Use the Game Cards that are provided or make your own. You can also make cards specific to what you have been learning in your classroom. There are 500 Game Cards for you to choose from. Note: Please take in consideration that I am just a Mom and I'm providing these question cards to the best of my abilities. I tried to make them as accurate as possible, but I know I probably made a few mistakes and it was not intentional.

Cranium Catholic Edition Game- Directions, Game Board, 500 Game Cards

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Special Events for September

*This month’s special events are: Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Sorrows and The Exaltation of the Holy Cross and I have quite a number of activities for you to check out.

*Be sure to check out pflaum.com- for activities and worksheets.

Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

americancatholic.org- Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

catholicism.about.com- Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

catholicicing.com- Mary Garden Ideas and Crafts

*You can have a birthday party for Mary and have the students plan it. Have them bake an angel food cake, cupcakes, etc. to celebrate her birthday.

catholiccuisine.blogspot.com- A Blueberry Waffle Cake for Mary’s Birthday

catholiccuisine.blogspot.com- A Birthday Cake for Our Lady

catholiccuisine.blogspot.com- Blueberry Cheesecake for Our Lady’s Birthday

*More activities for the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary below under Activities For Both Feasts

Our Lady of Sorrows

americancatholic.org- Our Lady of Sorrows

newadvent.org- Feasts of the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary

fisheaters.com- Feast of the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary

catholicculture.org- info and activities

tiredtwang.blogspot.com- Our Lady of Sorrows (scroll down for this coloring page)

catholiccuisine.blogspot.com- Our Lady of Sorrows recipes

catholicicing.com- Our Lady of Sorrows Crafts

catholicicing.com- Seven Sorrows of Mary- Printable Mobile Craft

traininghappyhearts.blogspot.com- Lots of great ideas that you can use with this free printable

Activities for Both Feast Days

Rosary- references, activities, coloring, crafts, games, puzzles, worksheets

fcpeace.com- Memory game on the feast of Mary

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

americancatholic.org- The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

catholicculture.org- info and activities

catholiccuisine.blogspot.com- The Exaltation of the Holy Cross food ideas

Favorite Cross Crafts:

christiancrafters.com- Mosaic Cross
Easy cross necklace/magnet that all kids can make.

momontimeout.com- Stained Glass Cross Craft

kindercraze.com- Stained Glass Cross Craft

christiancrafters.com- The Colors of Christ Cross
*Neat tip at the bottom for younger students.

Sign of the Cross Activities

Activity:

thewholetroubleis.blogspot.com- Sign of the Cross Lapbook

Coloring:

Sign of the Cross- with hand movements coloring sheet

Craft:

Here is a cute craft I found to help little ones learn the Sign of the Cross.

loyolapress.com- Sign of the Cross Necklaces

Worksheets:

catholicmothersonline.com- Sign of the Cross Prayer Handwriting Pages (print, cursive, and D’Nealian style of printing)

crusaders-for-christ.com- Sign of the Cross copy book, print and cursive (scroll down to this)

Pages

Monday, December 16, 2019

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Monday, December 2, 2019

Friday, November 8, 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Saturday, October 5, 2019

Friday, September 20, 2019

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Monday, September 16, 2019

Friday, September 13, 2019

Monday, September 9, 2019

Thursday, September 5, 2019

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

Friday, August 30, 2019

Thursday, August 29, 2019

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