Religion

Judges, Kings, and Prophets

In April we learned about Samuel, the Judges, Ruth, and the Kings of Israel (Saul, David, and Solomon). Students recently played a Jeopardy review game and took an open-book quiz. In May students will use the online Catechism to learn about the Kingdom of God. We will discuss similarities and differences of the kingdoms of ancient Israel and the Kingdom of God. Students will write a paragraph comparing and contrasting these. Later this month we will learn about prophets of the Old Testament by doing a “scavenger hunt” through the Bible. There are no major projects this month. We will continue memorizing the Anima Christi prayer (below).

Anima Christi

During April and May we will memorize the Anima Christi prayer: Anima Christi is Latin for “Soul of Christ”. It is a reverent prayer of love for Christ, centered on the Holy Eucharist and the Passion, that Catholics have loved since medieval times, and a favorite of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. In the past I have used the traditional translation from the Latin. This year we will use a version translated by Cardinal John Henry Newman. I like this version because the rhyming makes it easy to memorize and the words are easier to understand. Students may choose to memorize the original translation if they prefer.

Soul of Christ, be my sanctification;

Body of Christ, be my salvation;

Blood of Christ, fill all my veins;

Water of Christ's side, wash out my stains;

Passion of Christ, my comfort be;

O good Jesus, listen to me;

In Thy wounds I fain would hide;

Ne'er to be parted from Thy side;

Guard me, should the foe assail me;

Call me when my life shall fail me;

Bid me come to Thee above,

With Thy saints to sing Thy love,

World without end.

Amen.

Vocations Prayer

We will memorize this prayer during February and March.

Lord, grant that I may always allow myself to be guided by you, always follow your plans, and perfectly accomplish your holy will. Grant that in all things, great and small, today and all the days of my life, I may do whatever you require of me. Help me respond to the slightest prompting of your grace so that I may be your trustworthy instrument for your honor. May your will be done in time and in eternity by me, in me, and through me. Amen.

Moses: Unit 1: Freedom and Slavery

During January students will study the story of the Passover and Exodus. They will listen to African American spirituals and see how the story of the Exodus gave them hope that God would deliver them and bring them to their promised land: heaven. They will write a reflection on how sin can enslave us today and how Jesus offers us freedom. Last, students will design a video game that uses symbolism for our goals in life, the ways we can get trapped in sin, and the ways God helps to lead us to freedom.

Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary

During January students will be memorizing the luminous mysteries of the rosary. They should name and briefly describe each of the 5 mysteries. Click here for a study guide.

Advent Homily

During December students will study Advent-related Scriptures. They will choose 3 scriptures on which to write a "homily". It will be written as a 5 paragraph essay. This project also counts as a reading and writing grade. Presenting the homily is not required, but students who choose to share will get a little extra credit. For directions click here. For a list of suggested scriptures click here.

Psalm 139:1-16

During November and December we will be memorizing Psalm 139:1-16. It is a beautiful meditation on God's closeness to each one of us. Click here for a copy of this Psalm.