Area of revision Revised Revised Tested

Christian values

Making moral decisions (human dignity, conscience, freedom, sin)

The Ten Commandments

The Beatitudes

Christian Marriage

Marriage in society today

The purpose of marriage (sacrament, exclusive, life-giving, permanent)

The rite of marriage

The symbolism of marriage

Parenthood (duties and challenges, Ephesians)

Adoption and fostering (how the Church supports families, qualities and reasons why Christians put themselves forward for adoption)

Sex outside of marriage

Marital breakdown

Divorce, marriage and annulment

Christian Vocation

The Parable of the Talents

What is vocation

The role and vocation of lay people

The rite of ordination

The role of the deacon

The role of the priest

Celibacy of priests

The ordination of women

Vocation to the religious life – monks and nuns

Examples of the religious life (contemplative and apostolic orders)

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

Sin in the Roman Catholic Church.

Forgiveness in the Roman Catholic Church

The Parable of the Forgiving Father and The Unmerciful Servant

The rite of reconciliation (examination of conscience, confession, contrition, penance, absolution)

Causes of crime (including Christian perspectives)

The aims of punishment (deterrence, protection, retribution, reformation)

Types of punishment (prison, fines, community service)

The death penalty (reasons for and against, the Catholic view, Biblical evidence)

Prejudice and discrimination

Race and colour

Gender and disability

Religious discrimination

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

Christian Healing

Christian attitudes to sickness and healing

Anointing of the Sick (including the rite of Anointing of the Sick)

Attitudes to life after death

Death rites

The Sanctity of Life

Abortion

Euthanasia

Contraception

IVF

Christian responses to global issues

Christian duty towards the poor and those in need

The parable of the sheep and the Goats

Differences between rich and poor countries

What are the causes of world poverty?

How do Christians respond to the needs of the poor overseas (including Cafod and Trocaire)

Fairtrade and Exploitation

War and Peace

Just War Theory

Nuclear War

Terrorism

Pacifism

Practice GCSE questions: Christian Values:

1. Give two of the Ten Commandments which refer to loving God. (2 marks) 2. Explain how Christians may respond to these commandments in the way they live their lives. (4 marks) 3. ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness.’ Explain briefly this beatitude and suggest

how it might help Christians facing persecution. (3 marks) 4. ‘The Ten Commandments are not very helpful to life in the modern world.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for

your answer showing that you have thought about more than one point of view. (6 marks)

Christian Marriage: 1. What do the wedding rings symbolise for Christians? (2 marks) 2. Explain the meaning and importance of marriage in the Roman Catholic Church. (6 marks) 3. Explain why Roman Catholics support adoption and fostering. (4 marks) 4. ‘There is no difference between divorce and annulment.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer,

showing that you have thought about more than one point of view. Refer to Roman Catholic teaching in your answer. (6 marks)

Christian Vocation: 1. What is meant by the word vocation? (2 marks) 2. Explain the roles of the Roman Catholic priest. (6 marks) 3. Explain why the Roman Catholic Church is opposed to women’s ordination. (4 marks) 4. ‘Priests should remain celibate.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you have thought

about more than one point of view. Refer to Roman Catholic teaching in your answer. (6 marks)

The Sacrament of Reconciliation: 1. What is meant by the word reconciliation? (2 marks) 2. Explain what the Roman Catholic Church teaches about the causes of crime. (4 marks) 3. Explain the effects of crime on individuals and society. (6 marks) 4. ‘The death penalty is sometimes necessary.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you

have thought about more than one point of view. Refer to Roman Catholic teaching in your answer. (6 marks)

Christian Healing: 1. What is meant by the word euthanasia? (2 marks) 2. Explain why the Roman Catholic Church is opposed to use of artificial contraception. (4 marks) 3. Outline the rite of the anointing of the sick. (6 marks) 4. ‘A Christian should not have or help with an abortion.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing

that you have thought about more than one point of view. Refer to Roman Catholic teaching in your answer. (6 marks)

Christian Values:

Christian Marriage

Key word Definition Beatitudes Meaning ‘blessed’ or ‘happy’. The beatitudes is beginning portion of the Sermon of the

Mount. In it, Jesus describes the qualities of the inhabitants of the Kingdom of heaven and indicates how each is or will be blessed.

Commandment A rule for living, given by God to Moses in the book of Exodus. One of the 10 Commandments. Jesus said that the greatest commandments were love of God and love of neighbour.

Ethics The moral principles that a person uses to guide and judge their actions. Justice Bringing about what is right, fair, according to the law or making up a wrong that has been

committed. Peace An absence of war and conflict, which leads to happiness and harmony. Sermon on the Mount

A collection of Jesus’ religious and moral teachings recorded in Matthew’s Gospel. The Beatitudes are found here.

Sin Behaviour against God’s laws and wishes. Against principles of morality. A thought, word or action which is wrong, which people know is wrong and which people freely choose.

The Ten Commandments

A list of 10 rules believed to have been given by Moses on Mount Sinai.

Adultery Sex outside marriage where one or both of the couple are already married to someone else. Bible Sacred book for Christians containing both the Old and New Testaments

Key word Definition Adoption The legal process where a person (child) is taken (adopted) into a family as a son or daughter.

Adultery Sex outside marriage where one or both of the couple are already married to someone else. Annulment When the Roman Catholic Church declares a marriage invalid. Various conditions must be

met to prove this. For example, if one of the couple was unable to understand the demands of being married.

Divorce Legal ending of a marriage Exclusive Not divided or shared with others Fostering When a child is taken into a new family and brought up with the family (usually for a short

period of time but children can be fostered long-term) IVF A procedure in which eggs are removed from a woman’s ovaries and fertilised with sperm in

a laboratory. The fertilised egg is then replaced into the women’s uterus. The Catholic Church is against this.

Life-giving Having the power to give life. Marital breakdown

When a husband and wife no longer get on with each other, leading to the end of the marriage by divorce or separation.

Marriage A legal union between a man and a woman. The sacramental union between a man and woman in the Roman Catholic Church witnessed by a priest and the community.

Marriage ceremony

The ceremony in which a man and woman marry. A rite of passage and celebrated as a sacrament in some Christian traditions.

Permanent Lasting or remaining without essential change Re-marriage When people who have been married before get married again to someone different. Sacrament Rites and rituals through which the believer receives a special gift of grace. Roman Catholics

believe that sacraments are an ‘outward sign’ of ‘inward grace’. Sex outside of marriage

Sex between two people who are not married to each other: sex before marriage and adultery are both examples of sex outside of marriage.

Vows Solemn promises that are made, usually with God and other people as witnesses.

Christian Vocation:

Key word Definition

Anglican A member of the Church of England or the Churches worldwide that are linked to it.

Apostolic Religious community which combine a life of prayer with working in the world (for example Mother Teresa)

Apostolic succession

The belief that the head of Jesus’ Church is the Pope and that there has been an unbroken line of succession from St Peter to the current Pope. The Pope (and bishops) inherit the powers Jesus gave to the apostles.

Bishop A high ranking clergyman within the diocese who has the authority to confirm and ordain.

Celibacy The obligation to abstain from sexual relationships; part of the vows taken by people entering religious life.

Chastity Making a vow not to take a wife, husband or partner and not to have sexual relations.

Chrism It is the fragrant oil that is a symbol of being chosen by God for a special vocation in life.

Christian Someone who believes in Jesus Christ and follows the religion based on his teachings.

Church The Holy People of God, also called the body of Christ, among whom Christ is present and active; Members of a particular Christian denomination/tradition; A building in which Christians worship.

Church of England

The largest Protestant Church in England, which retains many Catholic features. It is sometimes referred to as the Anglican Church.

Contemplative In the context of Christian vocation, this applies to those who choose to live out their vocation in structured prayer, meditation and work, usually in enclosed religious orders.

Diocese The geographical area under the care of a bishop

Holy orders A sacrament of vocation through which a person devoted their life to the service of God and takes religious vows.

Laity Members of the Church who are not in holy orders.

Lay Ministry A role of service within the Church, such as a reader or a Eucharistic minister. All those who are not ordained are expected to serve God and others in their daily lives.

Obedience Obeying the superior (person in charge) of the religious order.

Ordination The act of making a person a priest or deacon. One of the seven sacraments recognised by the Catholic Church.

Pastoral Comes from the world ‘shepherd’ and is to describe the care that is given, for example by a priest to those in his parish.

Religious life Dedicating life to God, taking vows and living in a particularly holy way.

Roman Catholic The tradition within the Christian Church which is led by the Pope. Seven sacraments are celebrated.

Sacraments Rites and rituals though which the believer receives a special gift of grace.

The Pope The head of the Roman Catholic Church. The successor of Peter who was appointed to lead the Church by Jesus.

Vocation Doing something for the love of it (non-religious) A feeling that God is calling someone to a special ministry or way of serving others.

Vows Solemn promises that are made, usually with God and other people as witnesses.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

Key word Definition

Capital punishment

Form of punishment in which a prisoner is put to death for crimes committed.

Colour Relating to the colour of a person’s skin/ethnicity. Often used as a reason for unfairly judging others and making uninformed opinions about them.

The death penalty

Another way of saying capital punishment. Form of punishment in which a prisoner is put to death for crimes committed.

Deterrence One of the aims of punishment to put people off committing crimes,

Disability When a person has a mental or physical condition that limits movement or activities.

Discrimination To treat someone differently based on their sex, race, religion etc.

Forgiveness To pardon a person for something that they have done wrong. In Biblical times, it was believed that only God could forgive sins.

Justice Bringing about what is right, fair, according to the law or making up for a wrong that has been committed.

Prejudice Unfairly judging someone before the facts are known. Holding biased opinions about an individual group.

Protection To stop the criminal hurting someone in society. An aim of punishment

Punishment That which is done to a person because they have broken the law.

Race A group of people with the same ethnic background.

Reconciliation A sacrament in the Roman Catholic Church. When two people or groups of people who have disagreed or fought with each other make up.

Retribution To ‘get your own back’ on the criminal, based on the Old Testament teaching ‘an eye for an eye’. An aim of punishment aimed at being proportionate to the offence committed.

Samaritans The Samaritans were mixed-race Jews. They regarded each other as enemies, so in Luke’s parable of the Good Samaritan, the Samaritan had no obligation to help the injured Jew.

Sin Behaviour which is against God’s laws and wishes/against principles of morality. A thought, word or action which is wrong, which people know is wrong and which people freely choose.

Absolution The removal of the guilt that results from sin; the final part of the Sacrament of reconciliation.

Confession Sometimes used as the name for the Sacrament of Reconciliation; the act of admitting that one has done something wrong.

Contrition A feeling of true sorrow for the wrongs a person has committed; the first stage in the process of reconciliation.

Crime Breaking the law

Minorities Groups of people who differ from the majority of others in terms of race, religion, language or opinion etc., sometimes the victims of discrimination.

Satisfaction An important part of reconciliation; the person who has offended and who wants to be forgiven needs in some way to make up for or repair the harm that has been done.

Christian Healing:

Global Issues:

Key word Definition

Abortion The deliberate termination (ending) of a pregnancy, usually before the foetus is twenty-four weeks old. Roman Catholics see this as wrong in all circumstances.

Contraception The artificial and chemical methods used to prevent pregnancy taking place.

Death rites Ceremonies for believers in preparation for life after death.

Euthanasia Inducing a painless death, with compassion to ease suffering. From the Greek meaning ‘Good Death.’ Some Christians believe it is ‘mercy killing’ while others see it as taking life.

In vitro fertilisation (IVF)

A procedure in which eggs are removed from a woman’s ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilised egg is then replaced into the woman’s uterus.

Sanctity of life Life is sacred because it is God-given

Sexual relationships outside marriage

Sex between people who are not married to each other.

Anointing of the sick

A sacrament traditionally given to people who are dying, now also given to people who are ill or having an operation.

Non-voluntary euthanasia

When a patient’s life is ended because it is felt that to keep them alive is to make them suffer, but the patient is unable to give consent to the decision.

Voluntary euthanasia

When a terminally ill person asks a doctor or friend to help them to die peacefully and with dignity. It can be called ‘mercy killing’ or ‘assisted suicide’.

Key word Definition

CAFOD Catholic Agency for Overseas Development – a private charity established by the Bishops of England and Wales to bring aid t less economically developed countries.

Fair trade A method of trade in which the producer of the product receives a fair payment for his/her product e.g. fair trade bananas.

‘Just’ War A war that the Christian Church defines as acceptable: this must fit certain criteria. The idea was developed by St Thomas Aquinas and the Roman Catholic Church

Justice Bringing about what is right, fair, according to the law or making up for a wrong that has bee committed.

Nuclear war A war in which the participants use nuclear weapons.

Nuclear Proliferation

The increase in the number of states that have a potential to use nuclear weapons.

Pacifism The belief that it is unacceptable to take part in war and any other form of violence.

Peace An absence of war and conflict, which leads to happiness and harmony.

Poverty Living simply and sharing talents, money and material goods for the support of the community.

Terrorism When groups use violence, or the threat of violence, to achieve their aims, rather than using a democratic process. Then violence is often indiscriminate, to create maximum fear.

Trocaire Irish word for mercy. Charity established by the Irish Bishops to help alleviate poverty in the developing world.

Aid To help or assist people in need, usually by gifts or money. Most people think of this as donating to charities that provide help to the poor, particularly in the developing world.

Debt Owing something (usually money) to someone else.

Disarmament When a country gets rid of its weapons.

Exam Tips:

A01 questions: Knowledge and understanding questions

2 marks - spend no more than 2 minutes on these questions. Usually a key word or listing two ideas 4 marks –spend no more than 5 minutes on these questions.

Write two paragraphs to answer these questions or you might have to give two examples (e.g. two Beatitudes)

6 marks – spend 7-8 minutes on these questions. Write three paragraphs using PEEL to structure them.

DON’T FORGET TO WRITE IN PARAGRAPHS WHEN EXPLAINING AND USE EVIDENCE OR EXAMPLES TO AIM FOR AN

A/A*.

Long-term aid Helping needy people to help themselves by providing the tools, education and funding for projects. This type of aid is given by CAFOD and Trocaire to the poor overseas.

Short-term aid Giving needy people emergency donations, e.g. food in times of disaster.

For theirs in the Kingdom of heaven

For they will be comforted

Blessed are…

The poor in spirit

Those who mourn

The meek

Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness

The mercifulThe pure in heart

The peacemakers

Those who are persecuted because of

righteousness

You when people insult you

persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you

because of me

For they will be filled

Rejoice and be glad, because great is

your reward in heaven, for in the

same way they persecuted the

prophets who were before you.

For they will be

called children of

God.

For they will be shown mercy For they will see God

For they will inherit the

earth

For theirs is the

Kingdom of heaven

Test yourself:

Mother Teresa:

Mother Teresa worked in Calcutta, India. She set up hospitals to help those who had leprosy. She had to fight

to get somewhere to set up her hospital and even was determined to get medical help for the people. Mother

Teresa did this because she could not believe how many people were left to die on the streets in India.

The charity Missionaries of Charity was set up by her and continues all over the world today. The Missionaries

take the vow to give ‘wholehearted and free service to the poorest of the poor.’

Today they run centres for the abandoned and dying of all religions, they bathe their wounds and help them to die with dignity. Which Beatitudes did Mother Teresa show? Which Beatitudes do the Missionaries of Charity show today?

Oscar Romero:

Oscar Romero was Archbishop of San Salvador in El Salvador. He witnessed violations of human rights, murders, disappearances and torture, carried out by the government. Many suffered terribly at this time and Romero denounced the actions of the government forces. During his Masses he spoke out against the persecution, reading lists of ‘disappeared’ people. In 1980, as he was holding up the consecrated host at mass in his Cathedral he was shot dead by a member of a right-wing group. Which Beatitudes did Oscar Romero show?

Blessed are the peacemakers

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness

Blessed are the poor in spirit

Blessed are the pure in heart

Blessed are the meek

For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven

For they will be comforted

For they will inherit the earth

For they will be filled

For they be shown mercy

For they will see God

For they will be called children of God

For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven

Rejoice and be glad, because your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness

Blessed are those who mourn.

Blessed are the merciful

Blessed are you when people insult you because of me.

Split the commandments into Love of God and Love of Others:

Love of God Love of Others

Which commandments are about marriage and family life?

Which commandments are about crime?

Marriage: What happens during a marriage ceremony?

Welcome

The priest welcomes everyone to the wedding.

He reminds them of the purpose of marriage.

This is to tell everyone that marriage is a sacrament and lifelong.

The liturgy of the word

Reading from the Bible.

The priest speaks about the meaning of the Bible passages.

This reminds people of the importance of marriage – love, sacrament and the responsibilities.

Questions

The priest asks questions of the couple before they marry.

This is to make sure they are free to make the vows.

Consent and exchange of vows

The priest asks the couple if they take each other in sickness and health, in good times and bad

times, to love them for all the days of their lives. The couple reply ‘I do.’

This shows that the marriage is loving, lifelong, supporting in all times and faithful.

Exchange of rings

The couple say to each other ‘take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity.’

The ring symbolises the unending nature of marriage and that marriage is exclusive.

Prayers and nuptial blessing

Prayers are said and a blessing given.

This is to ask for God’s blessing on the marriage and unite the couple forever.

Communion

The sacrament of the Eucharist is received.

This is to strengthen the marriage by bringing Christ into the couple’s lives.

Signing of the register

The newly weds sign the marriage registry.

This makes the wedding legal so that is a civil marriage as well as a sacramental one.

The purpose of marriage is a sacrament,

lifelong, exclusive and life-giving (open to

children)

Children and parents must respect each other. Parents must be caring and bring children up to

know right from wrong. Children must be obedient and respectful to their

parents and love their brothers and sisters.

The Church supports family life by: Providing Catholic schools

Welcoming families to Mass Organising social events for families Charities to support married couples

This means having sex with someone that you are not married to. This could be sex before marriage OR

adultery.

Divorce and Annulment:

Marriages breakdown because of:

- Money problems,

- Adultery,

- Domestic violence,

- Drinking problems,

- Loss of a child,

- Inability to have children.

- Ill health

Adultery is wrong

The Commandments say ‘Do not commit

adultery.’

It is not respecting the marriage vows

Sex before marriage is wrong

Marriage is the best place to have sex because

one of the purposes of sex is to have children

and this should happen in marriage.

St Paul said sex outside of marriage is wrong

The best possible love is the love in marriage

because it shows a commitment.

People disagree with this because: Marriage is expensive and some people can’t afford it.

Divorce is common so a trial period by living together is important. You should be faithful to any partner even if you are not married.

Divorce is the legal ending of a marriage. The Church doesn’t agree with divorce because the marriage is a

sacrament and no one can separate what God has joined together (Mark’s Gospel says this)

The marriage vows say the couple will be together until death do them part.

St. Paul said a couple should not get divorced.

Some Christians agree with divorce because Jesus said divorce is ok if one partner has been unfaithful. Or if the person’s or their children’s

safety is at risk because of domestic violence. They say God is forgiving and allow remarriage.

Annulment is when the Catholic Church declares a marriage invalid. This

means the sacrament did not take place. This might be because:

- One or both were forced into the marriage

- One or both never intended to have children

- One refuses to show any love or care for the other.

Annulment means that consent was not fully or properly given.

The couple are free to remarry following an annulment.

Test yourself:

True or false?

Statement about marriage: T or F

When two people get married, they must intend for it to be for live.

The wedding rings symbolise that the marriage is a sacrament.

In a Catholic Church the couple can write their own vows.

Annulment and Divorce mean the same thing.

Catholic Churches are involved in the pre-wedding preparations but once the couple are married the Church leaves them to get on with the marriage alone.

The Church thinks it is ok for a couple to live together before they get married.

Mass at a wedding is known as a Nuptial Mass.

Adultery is forbidden in the 10 Commandments

What’s the difference between divorce and annulment?

Similarities between divorce and annulment are: Differences between divorce and annulment are:

Can you describe what happens at a Roman Catholic wedding ceremony?(6 marks)

Remarriage in church after divorce should never be allowed. What do you think? Explain your opinion (3 marks)

You could be asked to evaluate this in the exam.

Christian Vocation:

What happens when someone becomes a priest?

1•Presentation - the candidate is presented to the bishop.

2

•Examination - the bishop asks questions about the responsibilities and the candidate promises to keep them. This is to show they are fully accepting the duties and responsibilities.

3

•Prostration - the candidate lies on the floor in prostration. This is to show that he is submitting himself to God.

4

•Consecration - the bishop ordains the priest by the laying on of hands and by prayer. The laying on of hands is an ancient sign of giving someone authority. It is also a sign of the presence of the Holy Spirit.

5•Prayer - the bishop gives a prayer of thanks to God. This shows priesthood is a gift from God to the Church.

6

•Investment - new priests are given their stole and chasuble. This shows the wearer is a priest and are the Eucharistic garments - the clothes worn during Mass.

7•Anointing - the bishop anoints the priest's hand with oil. This is the bless, consecrate and sanctify.

8

•Mass - the bishop present the priest witha a paten and chalice and the priest assists the bishop in celebrating Mass. The paten and chalice an=re symbolic that the priest has a duty to be minister of the Eucharist.

The role of the priest 1. Minister the Eucharist

2. Proclaim the word of God

3. Offering forgiveness (absolution)

4. Conducting funerals

5. Leading Christian worship

The role of the deacon: The deacon can be in full-time employment outside of the Church and can be married.

He might be a permanent deacon or training to be a priest

His main roles are: to preside at baptisms, weddings and funerals.

Lead the people in prayer Read the Gospel and preach

Charity – serving the poor and those in need.

The role of the laity The laity are people who have been baptised into the Church but do not take holy orders.

Their responsibilities are; 1. To live their lives according to Christ’s teachings

2. To bring their faith into ordinary human life 3. To form a community that is recognised as the people of God.

The calling of the lay people is: 1. To be witnesses Jesus – bringing up a Christian family and supporting worship.

2. To teach about Jesus – supporting children and adults who are preparing for their First Holy Communion or Confirmation.

3. To lead the service of the community by participating in parish councils, being involved in the pastoral care of the Church and working for justice in all aspects of life.

Issues: Celibacy of priests:

Arguments for celibate priests Arguments against celibate priests

Jesus was not married and it is part of canon law. Jesus chose disciples who were married and it was not an issue in the Early Church.

It shows the priest’s total commitment to Christ and his Church. Marriage would be a distraction.

More people would respond to the call of priesthood and being married would be enriching.

There could be a time when priestly and family duties conflict

Married priests could give better advice and support to families.

Women priests:

Arguments for women priests Arguments against women priests

In the 1st Century choosing women disciples would not have happened – women were not seen as reliable.

Jesus chose men to be his disciples.

There was a female deacon in the New Testament – Phoebe.

St Paul said women should not lead worship

St Paul said that we are all one in Christ and that gender has no meaning, therefore women should be priests.

Jesus was a man and a priest is acting in the place of Jesus.

Religious vocation:

Test yourself:

List three duties of priests.

Can you now explain them?

What is the difference between contemplative and apostolic orders of monks and nuns?

What are lay people?

Religous vocation

3 vows:

poverty, chastity and obedience

Contemplative orders - live a life of private prayer and

study,

Apostolic (active) orders worship and pray but also go into

the community to help others

Mother Teresa ia an example of an apostolic nun.

She helped those in India.

Carthusians are an example of

contemplative orders. They live

their lifes in private in a convent.

A religious vocaton iis being called to be

a monk or a nun

Apostolic (active) order: Mother Teresa saw the

injustice of people in India who were treated as

outcasts. She dedicated her life to helping those with leprosy. She set her

hospitals and the Missionaries of Charity.

Contemplative order: Carthusians have a monks

and nuns who live a solitary life at the heart of the Church. The live their

lives entirely in prayer and seeking God in the secret of their hearts. They pray

for the Church and the world.

Christian Reconciliation:

Key terms:

Sin is an offence against God that hurts others. Mortal sins are more serious that venial sins as they alienate the

person from God.

Jesus’ suffering death and resurrection broke down the barrier of sin that cuts humans off from God. This means

that if people turn to God in penitence and ask to make a fresh start, God will always forgive.

Forgiveness is about wiping the slate clean and restoring the relationship with God.

The rite of reconciliation:

The importance of the Sacrament of Reconciliation:

1. It recovers grace from God.

2. It means reconciliation with the Church and with the community.

3. An increase in spiritual strength against evil.

4. Release of mortal sins.

Preparation - read scripture/reflect

Sign of the cross and blessing - focus on love

of God

Confession - Examine conscience, admit sins

and accept responsibility

Satisfaction /Penance -A requirement to do

something to make up for wrong doing eg.

prayer

Contrition - A prayer that shows the person

is genuinel sorry for what they have done

wrong.

Absotuion - the priest forgives the person's

sins.

5. It reflects God’s commitment to his people and that God has made the first move – he is on the path like the

father in the parable of the Forgiving Father.

Test yourself:

1. The rite of reconciliation is summarised below in a number of different sentences. Put them in the right

order:

The penitent confesses his/her sins, expressing sorrow and a wish to be forgiven.

The Penitent goes to a priest.

The priest declares God’s forgiveness, using a special prayer.

The priest gives helpful advice.

The penitent spends time alone in prayer and meditation.

‘May God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit.

2. Explain the meaning of each of the following terms:

Sin:

Mortal Sin:

Venial sin:

3. Explain how the parable of the forgiving father gets across the point that there are no limits to God’s

forgiveness.

GCSE question bank:

‘There is no point in the sacrament of reconciliation.’ What do you think? Explain your opinion. (3 marks)

Describe what happens during the Sacrament of Reconciliation (4 marks)

‘The Sacrament of Reconciliation is no longer needed.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that

you have considered more than one point of view. Refer to Roman Catholic teaching in your answer. (6 marks)

Why is the Sacrament of Reconciliation important for Roman Catholics? (2 marks)

Crime and Punishment:

Christian attitude to crime and punishment:

In addition to the reasons above Christians believe crime is caused by MORAL

FAILINGS and EVIL or THE DEVIL!

Crime effects society because it can cause death or injury, can lead to loss of income and medical costs due to injury,

it can leave the victim experiencing anxiety, depression or stress which might affect relationships. It also means

society is unable to enjoy life because they fear crime.

The Beatitudes and the commandments say we must not commit crime but instead LOVE OUR NEIGHBOUR and not

pursue our own interests.

They also say we need to not steal or covet, kill or lie. Therefore we must be honest in our dealings, respect all life

and uphold justice (blesses are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness).

Christians believe the best aim of punishment is reformation:

Causes of crime

Poverty

Upbringing

Boredom

Alcohol and drugs

Greed

Peer pressure

If someone commits a crime

they can be punished by:

Prison Community service

Fines ASBOs

The aims of punishment are: Deterrence – put the criminal and others off committing the

crime. Reformation – Change the offender’s attitude so that

they do not want to offend in the future.

Protection – Make law-abiding people feel safe.

Retribution – ‘An eye for an eye’ – give the punishment the

offender deserves.

Capital punishment

For the death penalty Against the death penalty

Justice – ‘an eye for an eye.’ A murder forfeits his or her own life.

‘An eye for eye’ encourages revenge which is negative. Jesus asked God to forgive those who nailed him to the cross and we should follow this example.

It shows love for the victims of serious crime.

Every human life is of value, even the lives of those who have committed murder.

It permanently removes the worst criminals from society.

The 10 Commandments say ‘do not kill’ and if we use the death penalty we are becoming criminals too.

Fear of the death penalty might deter others from killing.

It does not show live for one’s neighbour or enemies.

A second chance is not deserved – the victim doesn’t have one.

The offender has no chance to reform.

If someone murders someone else, they have given up their human rights, including the one to stay alive.

Innocent people have been executed – for example Derek Bentley who has now been pardoned of the crime he was executed for.

Forensic science makes wrongful executions more unlikely.

Evidence from America shows it does not work as a deterrent.

The families of the victim may never recover and are innocent too.

It affects the families of those executed and the families are innocent.

Prejudice and Discrimination:

Religious Discrimination: Prejudice and discrimination because of someone’s religious beliefs.

Racism: Prejudice and discrimination based on a person’s race or skin colour.

Reformation

Restorative justice helps the offender make amends to

their victims by meeting the victim.

This gives offenders a second chance and victims a chance

to forgive.

Jesus said 'love your enemy' and in the Our Father we say' Forgive our sins as we forgive

those who sin against us.'

Education can help the offender learn literacy skills,

take exams, train in vocational skills.

Those in prison contribute positively to society instead

of feeling cut off from it.

For example, they learn braille and transcibe books

for the blind.

The Catholic Church is against the death penalty.

The Church believes in reformation and believes in the sanctity of life.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church allows for the death penalty in

extreme circumstances when all other non-lethal methods are not

sufficient to defend and protect socity.

In 2002 Muslim men of Pakistani and Bangladeshi background were more likely to be unemployed. In the UK we have religious freedom – we can freely practice our religious faith. Christians teach religious discrimination is wrong because:

1. Human beings should be free to believe and not be forced to act in a way that is contrary to their beliefs.

2. In the New Testament, Christians were persecuted and we should not make people suffer as Christians have.

3. Jesus showed kindness to someone of a different religion – he spoke to the Samarian woman at the well and taught the Parable of the Good Samaritan.

There are laws saying racism is wrong in public and in the workplace. Christians teach racism is wrong because:

1. It does not reflect the teaching that we are all made in God’s image.

2. It does not show love of neighbour. 3. It does not show that we are all one in Christ (a

teaching of St Paul). Stephen Lawrence was killed in a racist attack.

Disability Discrimination: Treating someone differently because of a physical or mental impairment e.g. hearing, sight, cancer, diabetes, mental health condition or learning difficulties. Christians teach that disability discrimination is wrong because:

1. We are all one in Christ and made in his image and likeness regardless of disability.

2. People with disabilities are active members of the Church not just passive receivers.

3. Jesus healed people with disabilities – he did not treat them differently.

Gender Discrimination: Treating someone differently because of they are male or female e.g. women being paid less than men, men being given senior positions in jobs or stereotyping jobs (doctors are men and nurses are women). Christians teach gender discrimination is wrong because:

1. Women and men were made in the image of God.

2. In Genesis God made male and female at the same time so we are all equal.

3. The teaching of the Catechism is that men and women are equal.

However, the Catholic Church says men and women have different roles in religious life because there are differences between men and women – BUT men and women are equal.

Test yourself:

Match each aim of punishment to its explanation:

Deterrence To change the attitude of the offender

Protection To put the offender off committing crime again

Reformation To give the offender what he/she deserves

Retribution To keep society safe

Complete the missing words:

The Catholic Church is against prejudice and discrimination because Jesus taught that we must show ……………….. for

our …………………

The Catholic Church says that it is wrong to discriminate against someone because of their gender. This is because

we were all made in the …………………. of ………………… Genesis 1 tells us this and therefore ……………. and women are

equal.

The Catholic Church teaches that racism is wrong because it does not reflect St Paul’s teaching that we are all

……………. in ………………………….. This means that Christians should follow this teaching and show ……………… for their

………………. In the Parable of …………………………………………………………… Jesus showed that it does not matter what your

race or religion you are, …………………………… is your neighbour. In this parable a …………………………………….. helped a

……………………… who had been robbed and beaten up. He …………………………. for him until he was better.

The Catholic Church also believes religious discrimination is wrong. The Church teaches that we are all ………………. to

choose our own religion. In the New Testament Christians were …………………………………… for their faith in

…………………. and as Christians we should not want others to suffer in this way. Also Jesus showed acts of kindness to

people regardless of their religion like the …………………………………….. woman at the ………………….. We should follow

this example today.

GCSE question bank:

Explain some of the causes of crime (4 marks).

‘The death penalty is the only way to deal with murders.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered more than

one point of view. Refer to Roman Catholic teaching in your answer. (6 marks)

Explain what the Parable of the Forgiving Father teaches Christians about forgiveness. (6 marks)

Explain why some people break the law. (3 marks)

Describe how the Samaritan in the Parable of the Good Samaritan cared for the injured man. (4 marks)

The Good Samaritan:

Jesus told a …………………… about a ……………………… man who was travelling to ……………………………. He was ………………

and left for dead. First of all a ………………….. came by, but he totally ……………………. the injured man. Then came a

………………………. and he did the same. Eventually a ………………………. came along. It was surprising that he stopped to

help, as …………………….. and ……………………………. were bitter enemies. Anyway, the ……………………… bandaged the man

up, put him on his ………………………….. and took him to an ……………………………. Where he …………………….. the innkeeper

to look after the injured man. He promised to pay any …………………….. that he owed on his return.

Types of prejudice and discrimination:

Sexism Treating someone differently because they have a mental or physical disability. Racism Treating someone differently because of their gender.

Disability Treating someone differently because of their religious beliefs.

Religious Treating someone differently because of their race or skin colour.

Think of an example of each type of prejudice and discrimination:

Sexism

Racism

Disability

Religious

Jesus: which type of prejudice and discrimination does each example link to?

Jesus talked to a Samaritan woman at a well Jesus had women disciples.

Jesus taught the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus healed a paralysed man.

Jesus healed a Roman Centurion’s servant.

Christian Healing:

Jesus was a healer. He

came to heal the sinners

The Sick

There is a reason for suffering in the world.

Christians have a duty to help the sick to show that

they are following the

example of Jesus and serving Jesus

The church helps the sick by visiting them, praying for them and bringing

them comfort through the Eucharist.

The anointing of the sick

comes from the New

Testament.

The three sacraments of the sick are:

Anointing of the sick

Viaticum

The communion of the sick

Anointing of the Sick Key Facts:

1. The sacrament is to help those who are suffering and seriously ill to face the challenge that death can bring.

2. The sacrament is for those who are seriously ill, about to have surgery, elderly people who are weakened by

old age and for the sick who have lost consciousness.

3. The sacrament brings the power and love of the Holy Spirit.

4. The sacrament offers spiritual strength, comfort, peace and courage.

5. The sacrament offers the forgiveness of sins.

6. The sacrament leads to spiritual healing.

Life after death:

Christians believe that Jesus rose from the dead.

This means that there is a life after death.

In Hinduism and Buddhism, there is a belief in reincarnation (your soul is reborn into

another body in this world).

For Christians there is a life after death and there is a heaven – this is a place with God for

eternity.

Specific beliefs about life after death:

Judgement:

- The Church teaches that all are judged after their death on the way that they have lived their lives.

- Like in the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats we will be judged on how well we have shown love to our neighbour.

With God in heaven:

- The Catholic Church teaches that Heaven is not a place, but it is to be in the presence of God.

- To be in heaven is to be with Christ. Purgatory:

- The Catholic Church teaches that after death the person journeys towards the holiness of God.

- To do this people must be purified of any remaining evil within them.

- Purgatory is this purification of sin. Hell:

- The Catholic Church says little about hell.

- Hell does exist and it means a state of being without God. Resurrection and new life:

- The Christian Church began after the women at the tomb and the apostles accepted that Jesus had risen from the dead.

- Jesus said whoever believes in him will live, even though he dies. Death Rites:

Before death = viaticum is a special Eucharist given to a person who is close to death. Remember this is to given them comfort by reminding them that Jesus’ suffering and death was followed by his resurrection. It gives them hope for a life with God after death. After death = there is a funeral mass with a vigil the night before and then a ceremony at the Church. The priest will welcome everyone, sprinkle holy water on the coffin, conduct a Mass and then say prayers. At the graveside = Catholics can be buried or cremated. Prayers are said again and Holy Water is again sprinkled onto the coffin. Test yourself: Record the rite of anointing of the sick (you could get asked a 6 mark question on this) What are the effects of anointing of the sick? Circle the correct answer: Spiritual healing Sudden death to be with God Forgiveness Brings the Holy Spirit The Sanctity of Life

Sanctity of Life

life is holy and belongs to God.

All life has value.

Life is God-given

Life should not be

destroyed.

Life is precious

Life deserves respect

Life has a plan

Genesis says that God created human beings in

his image.

In Exodus the 10 Commandments say ‘do

not kill.’

St Paul says that we are God’s temple and God’s

temple should not be destroyed.

Psalm 139 says that God planned the days of our life

before we were born.

In Luke Jesus says God knows every hair on our

head.

Abortion

The deliberate termination of a pregnancy, usually before 24

weeks (the legal limit in the UK).

Why do women have abortions?

The baby will interfere with careers or lifestyles; the child is the

result of a casual encounter; the woman was raped.

The Catholic Church is against abortion because life begins at the moment of conception; therefore

an embryo is sacred from the moment of conception.

Other Christians think abortion is ok in some situations such as rape.

The Church supports anyone who has a baby with counselling and

welcoming single mothers into the Church.

There are alternatives to abortion such as adoption and fostering

Contraception

The artificial and chemical methods used to prevent pregnancy taking place.

Examples of artificial contraception condoms, the morning after pill, the contracetptive pill.

Examples of natural contraception include the rhythm method which means that the woman knows when she is

most fertile during her menstrual cycle.

The Catholic Church is against artificial contraception because it prevents the possibility of new life, and this is

part of the purpose of being in a sexual relationship.

When a couple get married they promise to be open the possibility of children and using articificial contraception

means that they are not open to having children.

Taking the morning after pill because it could result in the termination of life if conception has occurred.

Other Christians support artificial contraception to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases like

HIV/AIDS.

Also they recognise that limiting family size is sometimes a responible thing to do.

IVF

A scientific method of making a woman pregnant, which does not involve sex. Conception occurs via sperm and egg

being placed in a test tube.

Arguments for IVF:

Infertility is an illness that can cause sadness and depression. Those suffering from infertility should receive treatment

as with any other illness.

All couples should have a right to try for children. For some IVE is the only way.

The Catholic Church is against IVF because it can lead to the destruction of new life when frozen embryos that are

not used are destroyed; it seperates the creation of new life from the uniting act

of sex; brings others into the process; forgets that children are a gift and not a

right.

Other Christians support couples who want IVF because if no embryos are

destroyed then there is nothing wrong with IVF; it is like overcoming an illness just as JEsus brought healing to many

others. God asked humans to have children and this is using God-given

knowledge to have children and fulfil God's plan.

Euthanasia

Inducing a painless death, by agreement and with compassion, to ease suffering. From the Greek meaning 'Good Death'. Some Christians believe it is 'mercy killing'

while others see it as taking life.

Kinds of Euthanasia:

Voluntary euthanasia: where the person suffering has asked for or consented to euthanasia.

Non-voluntary euthanasia: euthanasia where the person's consent cannot be given because they are in a coma.

Involuntary euthanasia: this is the killing of a person against their wishes for some social or medical

justification. For example, the Nazis killed disabled people because there were thought to be of no use.

The Catholic Church is against euthanasie because every life is acred and valuable and should not be taken; God

has a divine purpose fo every single person; suffering is a mystery and in suffering we become close to God. Pope

John Paul II said 'life is always good.'

HOWEVER, the Church does acknowledge that some people need to take painkillers that could shortern the person's life and that attempts to save a life might be

trying to ignore the inevitability of death.

Others say that euthanasia is ok because it is for compassionate reasons, animals' lives are ended when their suffering becomes too great - why not humans?

Humans have free will and therefore should be able to choose the time and nature of their own death.

Some people who are auffering terribly have no quality ofe life and therefore the person might wish to end their

life.

Example questions: What is meant by the word euthanasia (2 marks) Explain why the Roman Catholic Church is opposed to the use of artificial contraception. (4 marks) Outline the rite of anointing of the sick (6 marks) ‘A Christian should not have or help with an abortion.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer showing that you have considered more than one point of view. (6 marks)

Test yourself:

1. The laying on of hands and anointing with holy water are key parts of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the

Sick. What do they symbolise?

2. Explain the symbolism of sprinkling with holy water.

3. What is Viaticum?

4. To whom is Viaticum given?

5. Explain the two types of judgement that each human faces, according to Roman Catholic teaching.

6. What is purgatory?

7. What do Roman Catholics think it is important to pray for the dead?

Fill in the gaps:

Christians believe that human life is s……………………… That means it is infinitely p…………………….. and should be

p……………..

Because of this, Roman Catholics think that those who have abortions are committing a very serious s………….. They

think that a d…………………….. baby has the same right to life as anyone else and that people should not pass

judgement on its q…………………. of life. They believe that if a woman who is pregnant as a result of r………………. goes

through the pregnancy, then g……………….. has triumphed over e…………….. and the baby is not being p…………………….

for what its father did.

Christians of other denominations also believe that human life is s…………………. and should be p………………… At the

same time, they believe that sometimes abortion is the most …………………… thing to do and the l……………… of two

e…………… They think this especially if the mother’s l……………….. is in danger, if she has been r………………. or if the

baby is unlikely to l………………. for very long because of a serious i…………………….. In these cases, they believe that

abortion may be the most c……………………….. action to take. They think that the decision is a person one, made in

accordance with conscience.

GCSE question bank:

1. Explain Roman Catholic beliefs and teachings about the use of IVF (4 marks)

2. ‘Any action to prevent the birth of an unwanted child is the most loving thing to do.’ Do you agree? Show

that you have considered more than one point of view. Refer to Roman Catholic teaching in your answer. (6

marks)

3. Explain how belief in the sanctity of life might influence Catholic attitudes to voluntary euthanasia. (4 marks)

Christian Responses to Global Issues

What is it like in less economically developed countries?

What causes poverty?

1. Environmental problems – This means frequent natural disasters which destroy crops. Poor countries do not

have the resource to repair damage quickly and this means that families go unfed and workers become

weaker.

2. Healthcare – The lack of basic health care means more children die (high mortality). This means women are

also more likely to die in childbirth because the health care is not good enough. People are still dying from

preventable diseases.

3. Poor leadership – Governments or rulers that are corrupt waste resources and make bad decisions. Some

countries that have been stable have been brought to economic collapse because of corrupt rules.

4. Conflict – War and civil unrest use up money and other resources on arms and conflict while, health,

education, agriculture suffer. Conflict can drive people from their homes and destroy their livelihoods,

therefore they are unable to provide for themselves.

How do Christians respond the needs of the poor overseas?

Support charities Pray to God asking for help Campaign for change and to change things.

Who are CAFOD?

- Began with first Family Fast Day in 1960, organised by National Board of Catholic Women.

- Set up by Catholic Bishops of England and Wales in 1962 as official overseas development and relief agency.

- Works with over 500 partners in the UK and overseas.

- Also works with other UK agencies such as Disasters Emergency Committee and with interfaith groups like

Islamic Relief.

- Helped set up the Fair trade movement.

- Basic principles – compassion, solidarity, stewardship, hope.

- Concerned to promote human development and social justice.

- Involved in emergency and long-term aid, in encouraging a more simplistic lifestyle in the UK and speaking

out against injustice.

- Believe in dignity and respect for all human beings.

Christian attitudes to world poverty:

- Take an active part towards ending global poverty.

- Emphasise justice, compassion, stewardship and following the example of Jesus.

- Follow the New Testament teaching that poverty is wrong.

- Christians are called to give generously to those in need.

- Catholics believe that rich nations have a duty to help the poor.

- Many Christians give up luxuries during Lent and take part in fast days.

- Many also take part in campaigns such as Make Poverty History.

War and Peace:

This movement was started by a number of charities. It aims to remove the injustice at the heart of much world trade. For example, this means that they want a fair pay for those who work on banana

plantations for multinational companies. Those involved in the movement aim to provide a decent living and working conditions for

the workers, including schools for children and medical care.

Terrorism:

Terrorism is caused by a grievance with a political party; religious extremism or conflict; ethnic conflict; economic

problems.

9/11 and 7/7 are the most recent examples of terrorism in the USA and UK. These were caused by religious

extremists.

The USA and UK started a War on Terror in response to the attacks. This included the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.

Some people say it isn’t a war because terrorists are criminals not soldiers.

Christians should respond to terrorism by saying terrorism prevents reconciliation between different people, causes

new problems and tensions and leads to suffering and harm.

The Catholic Church says that it essential to address the causes of terrorism and promote respect for every human

being and the unity of humanity.

Pacifism:

This is the belief that violence against other human beings can never be justified. War is always wrong – it can never

be the lesser of two evils.

Arguments for Pacifism Arguments against Pacifism

Everyone has the right to life and life is sacred. The person starting the war has given up their right to life. War encourages greed

Modern war methods harm innocent people. War protects the innocent

Jesus taught that we should be peacemakers. War can bring out the best in people e.g. compassion

War and Peace

Chrisians believe war is wrong

because Jesus said we should

be peacemakers

War has many effects - injures

innocent people, ends lives and

damages countries.

Aquinas said all wars must be

just.

Many Christians call for nuclear disarmament.

Jesus also said only God can take a life and the

commandments say ‘do not kill.’ Nuclear war destroys lives

and the effects are long-lasting. The Church does not

support nuclear war.

Wars must be the last resort; the aim must be to restore peace; there must be some chance of

success; weapons must be used proportionately.

Soldiers are killed, innocent civilians are injured and killed and homes are lost.

Test yourself:

Read through the following statements relating to the Second World War. Next to each, say which criterion of the

Just War theory could be applied and then put a tick or a cross, indicating whether you think it was fulfilled or not.

The UK went to war with Germany because Hitler invaded Poland, with whom the UK had an alliance.

The British government declared war on Germany.

Before declaring war, Britain held talks with Hitler and made a treaty, but Hitler ignored it.

Britain had an army, a navy and an air force that were reasonably equipped.

Europe suffered terribly under Nazi rule. After the war, Eastern Europe was dominated by the Soviet Union and its repressive policies.

Thousands of civilians died in the bombing of Dresden by the RAF and allies.

The Americans dropped nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki

When Germany surrendered, the British and Americans because to help German refugees.

Give six facts about CAFOD:

GCSE question bank:

1. ‘Christians who fight in war are betraying their faith.’ What do you think? Explain your opinion. (3 marks)

2. Explain why many Christians are pacifists. (6 marks)

3. Explain why many Christians support the Just War theory. (6 marks)

4. Explain briefly how the Fair trade movement seeks to help workers in poor nations. (3 marks)

The

Par

able

of

the

Go

od

Sam

arit

an

1.

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s w

as a

sked

ho

w p

eop

le

can

inh

erit

ete

rnal

life

.

2.

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said

th

at t

her

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as a

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ish

man

wh

o h

ad b

een

bea

ten

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ob

bed

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d le

ft

to d

ie.

3.

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ew

ish

pri

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d L

evit

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wal

ked

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and

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t h

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cro

ssed

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r to

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e o

the

r

sid

e o

f th

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ad.

4.

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amar

itan

sto

pp

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nd

hel

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th

e m

an. H

e to

ok

to a

n

inn

an

d p

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fo

r th

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n k

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to h

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til h

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as

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ter.

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said

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urn

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d

pay

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a th

at w

as

nee

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6.

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man

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his

nei

ghb

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ause

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he

lped

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tho

ugh

he

did

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t kn

ow

him

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Wh

at d

oes

it m

ean

?

1.

Jew

s an

d S

amar

itan

s w

ere

enem

ies

so J

esu

s w

as s

ho

win

g

that

eve

ryo

ne

is y

ou

r

nei

ghb

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2.

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ng

you

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eigh

bo

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ws

love

of

Go

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3.

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rist

ian

s n

eed

to

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bel

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.

4.

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s h

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p

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5.

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ng

Go

d a

nd

yo

ur

nei

ghb

ou

r is

at

the

cen

tre

of

wh

at it

mea

ns

to b

e C

hri

stia

n.

The

Par

able

of

the

shee

p a

nd

th

e

goat

s

1.

At

the

end

of

tim

e Je

sus

will

retu

rn t

o ju

dge

th

e liv

ing

and

th

e d

ead

.

2.

He

will

sep

arat

e th

e

righ

teo

us

and

th

e

un

righ

teo

us.

3.

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he

righ

teo

us

on

his

rig

ht

he

will

say

, ‘C

om

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th

e

Kin

gdo

m o

f G

od

bec

ause

wh

en I

was

hu

ngr

y yo

u f

ed

me,

wh

en I

was

th

irst

y yo

u

gave

me

som

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to d

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me

in p

riso

n a

nd

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com

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hen

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nge

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I w

as n

aked

you

clo

thed

me.

4.

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will

say

wh

en L

ord

did

we

do

th

is. J

esu

s w

ill s

ay,

wh

en y

ou

did

th

is f

or

on

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f

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t o

f yo

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bro

ther

s

you

did

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or

me.

5.

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he

un

righ

teo

us

on

his

left

he

will

say

, wh

en I

was

hu

ngr

y yo

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id n

ot

feed

me,

wh

en I

was

th

irst

y yo

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met

hin

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dri

nk.

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u d

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me

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as a

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as n

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6.

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will

say

wh

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ord

did

we

no

t d

o t

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an

d J

esu

s w

ill

say

wh

enev

er y

ou

did

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t d

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r th

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on

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f

you

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oth

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you

did

no

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o

it f

or

me.

Wh

at d

oes

it m

ean

?

1.

Ch

rist

ian

s h

ave

a d

uty

to

love

th

eir

nei

ghb

ou

r.

2.

Lovi

ng

Ch

rist

mea

ns

serv

ing

oth

ers.

The

Par

able

of

the

Forg

ivin

g Fa

ther

1.

Jesu

s sa

id t

her

e w

as a

man

wh

o h

ad t

wo

so

ns.

Th

e

you

nge

r so

n w

ante

d h

is s

har

e

of

his

fat

her

’s p

rop

erty

to

go

to a

no

ther

to

wn

. So

th

e fa

ther

gave

him

his

sh

are

and

he

left

.

2.

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wen

t to

a d

ista

nt

cou

ntr

y

and

was

ted

his

mo

ney

on

reck

less

livi

ng.

3.

Then

a f

amin

e h

it t

he

area

an

d

the

you

nge

r so

n w

as f

orc

ed t

o

take

a jo

b f

eed

ing

pig

s.

4.

He

cam

e to

his

sen

ses

and

real

ised

his

fat

her

’s h

ired

hel

per

s h

ad m

ore

th

an h

im. S

o

he

dec

ided

he

wo

uld

go

bac

k

to h

is f

ath

er a

nd

say

‘Fat

her

I

hav

e si

nn

ed a

gain

st y

ou

an

d

agai

nst

Go

d, I

am

no

lon

ger

wo

rth

y to

be

calle

d y

ou

r so

n.’

5.

So h

e go

t u

p a

nd

wen

t an

d

said

th

is t

o h

is f

ath

er.

6.

As

he

app

roac

hed

his

fat

her

’s

farm

, his

fat

he

r w

as o

n t

he

pat

h w

aiti

ng

for

him

an

d w

ent

to m

eet

him

.

7.

He

told

his

ser

van

ts t

o g

et t

he

pri

ze c

alf

and

th

row

a p

arty

.

8.

The

old

er s

on

was

an

gry

abo

ut

this

an

d w

ante

d t

o k

no

w w

hy

he

did

n’t

eve

r ge

t a

par

ty.

9.

The

fath

er s

aid

eve

ryth

ing

he

has

was

his

old

er s

on

s, b

ut

the

you

nge

r so

n w

as d

ead

an

d is

no

w a

live,

was

lost

an

d is

fou

nd

.

Wh

at d

oes

it m

ean

?

1.

Go

d is

like

th

e fa

ther

wai

tin

g

for

his

ch

ildre

n t

o t

urn

bac

k to

him

wh

en t

hey

hav

e si

nn

ed.

2.

The

sin

s ar

e co

mp

lete

ly

forg

ott

en.

The

Par

able

of

the

Un

mer

cifu

l

Serv

ant

1.

Ther

e w

as a

mas

ter

wh

o

wan

ted

to

set

tle

his

acco

un

ts w

ith

his

ser

van

ts,

2.

On

e m

an o

wed

him

ten

tho

usa

nd

tal

ents

an

d w

as

no

t ab

le t

o p

ay. H

e b

egge

d

for

forg

iven

ess

an

d f

or

the

mas

ter

to b

e p

atie

nt

un

til h

e

cou

ld p

ay t

he

mo

ney

.

3.

The

mas

ter

sho

wed

him

mer

cy a

nd

can

celle

d t

he

deb

t.

4.

The

serv

ant

left

an

d s

aw a

fello

w s

erva

nt

wh

o o

wed

him

a h

un

dre

d d

enar

ii. H

e

grab

bed

him

an

d d

eman

ded

he

pay

him

bac

k.

5.

The

fello

w s

erva

nt

fell

to h

is

knee

s an

d b

egge

d f

or

the

serv

ant

to b

e p

atie

nt.

Bu

t

the

serv

ant

sho

wed

no

mer

cy a

nd

pu

t th

e m

an in

pri

son

un

til h

e co

uld

pay

off

the

deb

t.

6.

Som

e o

ther

ser

van

ts s

aw

this

an

d r

epo

rted

it t

he

mas

ter

wh

o w

as a

ngr

y. H

e

thre

w t

he

serv

ant

into

pri

son

un

til h

e co

uld

pay

bac

k w

hat

he

ow

ed.

7.

Jesu

s sa

id G

od

will

tre

at

each

of

us

like

this

un

less

we

forg

ive

you

r b

roth

er f

rom

the

hea

rt.

Wh

at d

oes

it m

ean

?

1.

Go

d’s

mer

cy a

nd

fo

rgiv

ene

ss

sho

uld

no

t b

e ab

use

d b

y

no

w s

ho

win

g m

ercy

to

oth

ers.

2.

To b

e fo

rgiv

en w

e m

ust

forg

ive.

The

Par

able

of

the

tale

nts

1.

A m

an g

oin

g o

n a

jou

rney

calle

d t

hre

e se

rvan

ts t

o h

im

and

en

tru

sted

th

em w

ith

his

pro

per

ty.

2.

To o

ne

he

gave

fiv

e ta

len

ts, t

o

ano

ther

tw

o t

alen

ts a

nd

th

e

thir

d o

ne

tale

nt.

3.

The

two

wit

h f

ive

and

tw

o

tale

nts

to

ok

the

mo

ney

an

d

inve

sted

it d

ou

blin

g w

hat

th

ey

had

.

4.

The

on

e w

ith

on

e ta

len

t d

ug

a

ho

le in

th

e gr

ou

nd

an

d h

id it

.

5.

Wh

en t

he

man

ret

urn

ed h

e

was

ple

ased

wit

h t

he

two

serv

ants

wh

o d

ou

ble

d t

hei

r

mo

ney

an

d s

aid

th

at h

e w

ou

ld

shar

e h

is h

app

ines

s w

ith

th

em

and

pu

t th

em in

ch

arge

of

man

y th

ings

.

6.

To t

he

on

e w

ho

had

hid

den

the

tale

nt

he

said

he

was

angr

y an

d c

alle

d h

im a

wic

ked

serv

ant.

He

said

he

sho

uld

hav

e le

ast

pu

t it

into

th

e b

ank

and

go

t in

tere

st o

n it

.

7.

He

too

k th

e ta

len

t an

d g

ave

it

to t

he

serv

ant

wh

o h

ad f

ive

tale

nts

. Fo

r ev

eryo

ne

wh

o h

as

will

be

give

n m

ore

an

d h

e w

ill

hav

e ab

un

dan

ce.

Wh

at d

oes

it m

ean

?

1.

Tale

nts

mea

nt

mo

ney

at

the

tim

e o

f Je

sus

bu

t to

day

we

read

it t

o m

ean

gif

ts a

nd

abili

ties

.

2.

We

mu

st n

ot

be

lazy

an

d m

ust

lead

an

act

ive

life

usi

ng

ou

r

tale

nts

.

3.

We

mu

st u

se t

he

tale

nts

we

hav

e to

live

res

po

nsi

bly

.