In education, we ask the person seeking the education, “What do you want to better understand?” after further dialog, the conversation brings a clearer understanding of what or where the knowledge gap is.
Families and people of all ages have mentioned the need for a simple tool to explore their Catholic Faith. As a certified catechist for the last 35 years, working with families, an overview of our faith was developed. Students in the second through fifth grade contributed to how they would like an outline to follow. We a happy to present the Purposeful Concepts Family Faith Guide. Our gift to you for 2025, and the Jubilee Year!
“We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision. The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so urgently desire…” (Pope Francis)
As learning styles are as unique as each individual, the kids over the last few years, suggested a “steps outline” to better understanding their faith (although we kept the traditional grade level sequence for some parents).
I have been blessed to have had countless interactions with people of all ages, and walks of life. One of my most recent encounters, stood out as an example of what everyday conversation could offer to our troubled world. This boy, was actively engaged in the classroom discussion, where we were learning about every word we pray within the Lord’s Prayer (the Our Father). We were praying with the intention of what we could do to try and make the world a better place and give hope to others. I asked the class (second and third grade) how they would explain this prayer and why we want to get to heaven; perhaps to a friend that didn’t know about God, as we say, “thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
The class had lots of suggestions, but this young man said, “heaven is a place where nothing goes wrong.” What a wonderful moment to imagine, this type of place, along with the hope for families raising children in the world we find ourselves in. Peace be with you!
