Men & Faith - Answers

Men and Faith
A n s w e r K e y
Men and faith
Answer key
ta b l e o f contents
Lesson 1: You Go into my Vineyard Too............................................................... 3
Lesson 2: I Am the Vine and You Are the Branches.............................................. 6
Lesson 3: All Branches of a Single Vine................................................................ 9
Lesson 4: The Lay Faithfuls Participation in the Life of the Church.................... 13
Lesson 5: I Have Appointed You to Go Forth and Bear Fruit.............................. 17
Lesson 6: Charity: The Soul and Sustenance of Solidarity................................... 21
Lesson 7: Women and Men............................................................................... 26
Lesson 8: That You Bear Much Fruit.................................................................. 29
Familia USA Inc 763-391-0204 www.familiausa.net

2008 Familia USA, Inc. All rights reserved.
Affiliate of Mission Network www.MissionNetwork.com
A Service of Regnum Christi: Love Christ. Serve People. Build the Church.
Men and Faith

Lesson 1
1 III. Catechesis: I believe in God the Father Almighty. (CCC, 198-421)
Lesson 1 Catechesis begins on page 19 of the workbook.
1. Why is this first affirmation, I believe in God, the most fundamental?
(CCC, 198-199)
Our profession of faith begins with God, for God is the First and the Last, the begin-
ning and the end of everything. (CCC, 198) The whole Creed speaks of God, and
when it also speaks of man and of the world it does so in relation to God. The other
articles all depend on the first (CCC, 199)
2. Believing in God, the only One, and loving him with all our being has enormous
consequences for our whole life. (CCC, 222) Reflect and ask yourself what it
means to believe and love God, and the consequences it bears in your life. See
paragraphs 222-227 in the catechism for five consequences that the Church
acknowledges.
It means coming to know Gods greatness and majesty (CCC, 223)
It means living in thanksgiving (CCC, 224)
It means knowing the unity and true dignity of all men (CCC, 225)
It means making good use of created things (CCC, 226)
It means trusting God in every circumstance (CCC, 227)
3. What is the consubstantial Trinity? (CCC, 253-256)

The Trinity is One. We do not confess three Gods, but one God in three persons ...
The divine persons do not share the one divinity among themselves but each of them
is God whole and entire (CCC, 253)
The divine persons are really distinct from one another He is not the Father who is the
Son, nor is the Son he who is the Father, nor is the Holy Spirit he who is the Father
or the Son. (CCC, 254)
The three persons are distinct from each other, but they are relative to one another.
(CCC, 255)
It is the Father who generates, the Son who is begotten, and the Holy Spirit who
proceeds. The divine Unity is Triune. (CCC, 254)
The mystery of the Most Holy Trinity is the central mystery of Christian faith and
life. It is the mystery of God in himself. It is therefore the source of all the other mys-
teries of faith, the light that enlightens them. It is the most fundamental and essen-
tial teaching in the hierarchy of the truths of faith. (CCC, 234)
4. How does God reveal his fatherly power to men? (CCC, 268-274)
God reveals his fatherly omnipotence by:
The way he takes care of our needs.
The filial adoption that he gives us. I will be a father to you, and you shall be my
sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty. (2 Cor. 6:18)
[F]inally by his infinite mercy, for he displays his power at its height by freely forgiving
sins. (CCC, 270)
Familia USA Inc 763-391-0204 www.familiausa.net 2008 Familia USA, Inc. All rights reserved.
A Service of Regnum Christi: Love Christ. Serve People. Build the Church. Men and Faith
Lesson
Lesson 11
1
5. Why is the dignity of man above that of all other visible creatures of God? (CCC,
355-361)
an is the only visible creature able to know and love his creator. (CCC, 356)
M
Man is the only visible creature willed for his own sake. (CCC, 356)
Man is the only earthly creature called to share, by knowledge and love, in Gods own
life. (CCC, 356)
God created everything for man (CCC, 358)
Christ raised the dignity of man by taking on human flesh. (CCC, 359-361)
6. What are the effects of original sin? (CCC, 385-421)

[H]uman nature is weakened in its powers; subject to ignorance, suffering and the
domination of death; and inclined to sin (This inclination is called concupiscence).
(CCC, 418)
IV. Document Discussion

Lesson 1 Document Discussion begins on page 21 of the workbook.
1. What does the term laity mean?

The laity are those who form that part of the People of God who are likened to labor-
ers. Our labor is to transform the whole world according to the plan of God.
The plan of God includes fidelity, obedience, or at least communion with his repre-
sentatives; i.e., the Pope, bishops, and pastors.
The People of God are to act in step or united with the Church.
2. What is the vocation of lay people? Where should we direct our efforts?
(CL, 2)
The vocation of lay people is to work in the vineyard. [This call] is addressed to
every person who comes into this world. (CL, 2)
The Lord himself renews his invitation to all the lay faithful to come closer to him
every day, and with the recognition that what is his is also their own (Phil 2:5) they
ought to associate themselves with him in his saving mission. (CL, 2)
We are to go and prepare every town and place to receive Jesus. God wants me to be
involved with the spreading of the faith.
We are to direct our efforts towards transforming the world around us. It is through
our responsibilities in the professional, social, cultural, economic, and political world
that we can discover means for permeating these realities with the demands of Chris-
tian doctrine and life.
3. Why is it not permissible for anyone to remain idle? (CL, 3)

A new state of affairs today both in the Church and in social, economic, political
and cultural life, calls with a particular urgency for the action of the lay faithful. If
lack of commitment is always unacceptable, the present time renders it even more
so. (CL, 3)
Since the work that awaits everyone in the vineyard of the Lord is so great there is no
place for idleness. (CL, 3)
Each of Christs followers, through faith and the sacraments of baptism, commu-
nion, and confirmation is incorporated into the Church and has an active part in her
mission of salvation.
Lesson 1
1
[O]ur world, with its problems and values, its unrest and hopes, its defeats and tri-
umphs: a world whose economic, social, political and cultural affairs pose problems
and grave difficulties needs Jesus. (CL, 3)
4. Secularism is the belief that morality should be based on the well-being of mankind
without any consideration of religious systems or forms of worship. In Christifidelis
Laici, article 4 the Pope calls our attention to secularism, a special threat to our
Christian society. How is it a threat to the Christian laity?
eople are adversely affected by the impressive triumphs of continuing scientific and
P
technological development and above all, fascinated by a very old and yet new temp-
tation, namely, that of wishing to become like God (cf. Gen 3:5) through the use of a
liberty without bounds (CL, 4)
Christianity is a living of a belief, and hence all division of faith (belief) from morals
(living) is artificial and harmful to Christianity. The removal of religion from public life
is especially threatening to our society, since public life without faith has no guiding
inspiration, and becomes subject to opinion of the majority.
5. What constitutes the dignity of the person? What is the danger when this dignity is
not recognized? (CL, 5)
ach human person is unique and unrepeatable, and made in the image and likeness
E
of God.
the sacredness of the human person cannot be obliterated, no matter how often it is
devalued and violated because it has its unshakable foundation in God as Creator
and Father. The sacredness of the person always keeps returning, again and again.
(CL, 5)
A person is a subject endowed with conscience and freedom, called to live respon-
sibly in society and history, and oriented towards spiritual and religious values. (CL,
5)
Failure to recognize and love the human person exposes him to humiliation and
contempt by others, leading often to a form of forced submission or slavery based on
ideology, economic power, inhumane political systems, scientific technocracy, or the
intrusive mass-media.
2 III. Catechesis:
I believe in Jesus Christ the Only Son of God (CCC, 422-570)
Lesson 2
1. Explain what Jesus, Christ, and Lord mean. (CCC, 430-451)
Jesus means in Hebrew: God saves. (CCC, 430)
Christ comes from the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah, which means
anointed. (CCC, 436)
In the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the ineffable Hebrew name YHWH,
by which God revealed himself to Moses (cf. Ex 3:14), is rendered as Kyrios, Lord.
(CCC, 446)
2. What are the four reasons the Word became flesh? (CCC, 456-460)
The Word became flesh for us in order to save us by reconciling us with God (CCC,
457)
The Word became flesh so that thus we might know Gods love (CCC, 458)
The Word became flesh to be our model of holiness (CCC, 459)
The Word became flesh to make us partakers of the divine nature. (CCC, 460)
3. At the Incarnation God became man, but still retained his divinity. Thus Jesus
(God the Son) has a divine and a human nature. How can God be both human and
divine? (CCC, 461-483)
The unique and altogether singular event of the Incarnation of the Son of God does not
mean that Jesus is part God and part man, nor does it imply that he is the result of a con-
fused mixture of the divine and the human. He became truly man while remaining truly
God. Jesus Christ is true God and true man. (CCC, 464)
The Church thus confesses that Jesus is inseparably true God and true man. He is
truly the Son of God who, without ceasing to be God and Lord, became a man and
our brother ... (CCC, 469)
Because human nature was assumed, not absorbed, in the mysterious union of the Incar-
nation, the Church was led over the course of centuries to confess the full reality of Christs
human soul, with its operations of intellect and will, and of his human body. (CCC, 470)
The Incarnation is therefore the mystery of the wonderful union of the divine and
human natures in the one person of the Word. (CCC, 483)
4. The Church teaches that the Blessed Mother, immaculately conceived and free
from sin, bore God within her womb, yet retained her virginity. See paragraphs
484-511 to understand why Mary was immaculately conceived and her role in the
salvation of man.
[I]n order for Mary to be able to give the free assent of her faith to the an-
nouncement of her vocation [annunciation of the angel Gabriel], it was necessary
that she be wholly borne by Gods grace. (CCC, 490)
Through her immaculate conception Mary was kept free or preserved from the stain of
sin and able to freely and completely give herself over to Gods will. (CCC, 493-494)
The Virgin Mary cooperated through free faith and obedience in human
salvation. (LG 56) She uttered her yes in the name of all human nature.
(St. Thomas Aquinas, STh III, 30, 1). By her obedience she became the new Eve,
mother of the living. (CCC, 511)
2 5. What was Christs mission in his hidden and public life? (CCC, 512-570)
Christs whole earthly life his words and deeds, his silences and sufferings, indeed his
manner of being and speaking is Revelation of the Father. (CCC, 516)
Christs whole life is a mystery of redemption. Redemption comes to us above all
Lesson 2
through the blood of his cross but this mystery is at work throughout Christs entire
life (CCC, 517)
Christs whole life is a mystery of recapitulation. All Jesus did, said, and suffered had
for its aim restoring fallen man to his original vocation ... (CCC, 518)
The whole of Christs life was a continual teaching: his silences, his miracles, his ges-
tures, his prayer, his love for people, his special affection for the little and the poor,
his acceptance of the total sacrifice on the Cross for the redemption of the world,
and his Resurrection are the actualization of his word and the fulfillment of Revela-
tion. (John Paul II, Catechesi tradendae 9; CCC, 561)
V. Document Discussion:
1. In Christifideles Laici article 9, John Paul II writes how the identity and vocation
of the lay members of the Church are connected with the sacrament of baptism.
Explain this connection.
Through baptism the lay faithful are intimately united with Christ and are established
among the people of God.
They carry out their own part in the mission of the whole Christian people with re-
spect to the Church and the world.
According to the Biblical image of the vineyard, the lay faithful, together with all the
other members of the Church, are branches engrafted to Christ the true vine, and
from him derive their life and fruitfulness.
2. What are the three effects of baptism referred to in the document? (CL, 10)
Adoption as children of God: the spiritual regeneration that takes place in baptism
makes us children in the Son.
Union in the Church: since by baptism we are united to Christ we thus become unit-
ed to each other. We become united to each other through our union with Christ.
Anointing into a spiritual house: the sacrament of baptism fills our souls with the
presence of God, making us into temples where God dwells.
3. C
hristifideles Laici article 14 regards the participation of the lay faithful in the
threefold mission of Christ. What are these three aspects? How does Christ fulfill
this role? How do Christians continue this role today?
Priest: each of the baptized shares in the priestly mission of Christ, who offered him-
self on the Cross and continues to be offered in the daily celebration of the Eucharist
for the glory of the Father and the salvation of mankind, by uniting themselves to him
and to his sacrifice offering each of their daily activities in union with him. The priest-
hood of the laity is not to be confused with the ministerial priesthood which is of a
different nature and purpose. (This concept will be explained later in the document.)
Prophet: each of the baptized shares in the prophetic mission of Christ, who
preached the kingdom of the Father and confirmed this preaching with his life, by
their accepting the Gospel message and by living it in their daily lives.
2 King: each of the baptized shares in the kingly mission of Christ who is King and
Lord of the universe. They are called to extend his kingdom throughout the earth,
both in the spiritual combat that consists in conquering oneself in the battle
against sin and evil, but also in ordering all creation to the well-being of humanity.
Lesson 2
4. C
hristifideles Laici article 16 describes holiness as the fruit of life lived according
to the Holy Spirit, given in baptism, and affirmed through the sacraments,
and demonstrated in all we do. How can we follow Jesus Christ, the model of
Christian holiness?
Answers will vary. Possible include:

Life according to the Spirit, whose fruit is holiness (cf. Rom 6:22, Gal 5:22) stirs up
every baptized person and requires each to follow and imitate Jesus Christ in embrac-
ing the Beatitudes, in listening and meditating on the Word of God, in conscious and
active participation in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church, in personal
prayer, in family or in community, in the hunger and thirst for justice, in the practice
of the commandment of love in all circumstances of life and service to the brethren,
especially the least, the poor and the suffering. (CL, 16)
Christ treated everyone he met with respect and genuine concern.
Christ used the situations of daily experiences to teach virtue. We are called to be
witnesses of heroic virtue lived in the ordinary everyday circumstances of human
existence. (CL, 17)
5. The Church urges the baptized to bring the Gospel message into their personal,
family, professional, and social lives. Explain how Christians can do this.
Answers will vary. Possible answers include:
Christians, by their baptism, share in the Churchs mission to extend Gods king-
dom throughout the world. The Church has received this mission from Christ;
though at times this may seem unpopular or difficult, it is the task each of us have
received.
Coherency for a Christian means a unity of life between what he is by baptism and
what he does in his personal life, his family life, his professional life, and his social
life. There should not be divisions between what one is and what one does; rather,
faith should have a part in our daily lives. Together with reason, faith makes society
and the world more human when this faith leads to the building up of others.
Each person has the duty of working to assure that each day the divine plan of sal-
vation is extended to every person, of every era, in every part of the earth.
3 III. Catechesis:
Jesus Christ suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died,
and was buried (CCC, 571-630)
1. What stands at the center of the Good News that the apostles and the Church
proclaim? (CCC, 571-573)
The Paschal Mystery of Christs cross and Resurrection stands at the center of the
Good News that the apostles, and the Church following them, are to proclaim to the
world. (CCC, 571)
Lesson 3
2. Jesus was a sign of contradiction to the Pharisees and religious authority in Israel.
The hardness of heart and ignorance kept many from believing in Jesus. Read
paragraphs 587-594 in the catechism and consider how you may harden your heart
and reject Christ as the Pharisees did.
Personal answers are given. Possible answers include:
You might not act on an inspiration because it might be inconvenient to you.
You might reject Jesus by deliberately refusing to share with those who are in need.
3. Who is the author of Christs Passion and death? (CCC, 597-598)

In her Magisterial teaching of the faith and in the witness of her saints, the Church
has never forgotten that sinners were the authors and the ministers of all the suffering
that the divine Redeemer endured. (CCC, 598)
4. Why did God allow his only Son, Jesus Christ, to suffer and die?
(CCC, 599- 605)
Jesus violent death was not the result of chance in an unfortunate coincidence of
circumstances (CCC, 599)
Mans sins, following on original sin, are punishable by death. By sending his own
Son in the form of a slave, in the form of a fallen humanity, on account of sin, God
made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteous-
ness of God. (CCC, 602)
5. Explain how Christs death is a gift and an offering. (CCC, 606-617)

This sacrifice of Christ is unique; it completes and surpasses all other sacrifices. First,
it is a gift from God the Father himself, for the Father handed his Son over to sinners in
order to reconcile us with himself. At the same time it is the offering of the Son of God
made man, who in freedom and love offered his life to his Father through the Holy
Spirit in reparation for our disobedience. (CCC, 614)
3 V. Document Discussion
1. The mystery of communion is revealed in the words of Jesus, I am the true vine
and my Father is the vinedresser Abide in me and I in you. (Jn 15:1,4) What are
the two meanings of communion? What is received from both? (CL, 18-20)
Communion with God
Union with God brought about by Jesus Christ and realized in the sacrament of
baptism.
The communion of Christians with God has the Trinity as its model and source,
and is the means to achieve this communion. (CL, 18)
Lesson 3
By this communion man is redeemed from sin and is restored to the status of a
son of God by adoption.
Communion with each other
Gods union with man, realized by Christ, brings about a union of men with each
other as brothers and sisters of Christ such that a spiritual family is formed. The
Church is Gods People or Family.
[A]ll are branches of a single vine, namely Christ. (CL, 18)
Organic communion refers to the living union of the various members into a
single body where there is a diversity of roles, vocations, states in life, and respon-
sibilities of the members and a complementarity of the gifts, charism, ministries,
and forms of service. (CL, 20)
Because of this diversity and complementarity every member of the lay faithful is
seen in relation to the whole body and offers a totally unique contribution on behalf of
the whole body. (CL, 20)
In each of the biblical images of communion there are the two dimensions: union of the
Christian with Christ and the communion of all Christians with one another. There is
the sheepfold, the flock, the vine, the spiritual building, the Holy City, and the Body, set
forth by the Apostle Paul, the image of the people of God. (CL, 19)
2. What are charisms? How does the Church view the charisms and ministries given by
the Holy Spirit? (CL, 20-22)
charisms are gifts of the Holy Spirit which are given for the building up of the
Body of Christ and for its mission of salvation in the world. (CL, 21)
Charisms given by the Holy Spirit are viewed by the Church with gratitude to God
who never ceases enriching the Body of Christ with spiritual gifts. (CL, 20)
She recognizes them as the continuation of the Lords own ministry as Good Shep-
herd who lays down his life for his flock, and as the humble servant who came not to
be served, but to serve and give his life for many. (CL, 21)
The diversity of these gifts, far from causing conflict and division, enriches the Body
of Christ, and the gifts, though diverse, actually complement one another.
The different charisms are authentic in the measure these submit to the authority of
the Churchs pastors. (CL, 20)
A Service of Regnum Christi: Love Christ. Serve People. Build the Church. Men and Faith 10
3
3. Explain the difference between the ministerial priesthood and the common
priesthood. To what areas are these directed? (CL, 22-23)
Ministerial priesthood
he ministerial priesthood refers to the role of the ordained minister who has
-T
received the sacrament of holy orders. In virtue of this ordination, the priest par-
ticipates in the priesthood of Jesus Christ and acts in persona Christi (with the
authority of Jesus Christ) in celebrating the sacraments.
he ordained minister is at service of the members of the Body of Christ especially
-T
through the celebration of the sacraments.
Common priesthood
he common priesthood refers to the priesthood of all the baptized who are made
-T
Lesson 3
sharers in the royal priesthood of Jesus Christ. This priesthood of the lay faith-
ful is received in the sacrament of baptism. In virtue of this priesthood all of the
faithful can unite their work, sufferings, joys, and failures with the sacrifice of Jesus
Christ.
he common priesthood is also ordered to the building up of the Church, espe-
-T
cially by bringing the Gospel message to all areas of family, work, society, and
culture. collaboration of the lay faithful in the Church's life and mission of
spreading the gospel, recalls that their own field of evangelizing activity is the vast
and complicated world of politics, society and economics, as well as the world
of culture, of the sciences and the arts, of international life, of the mass media. It
also includes other realities which are open to evangelization, such as human love,
the family, the education of children and adolescents, professional work, and suf-
fering. (CL, 23)
4. Why does the Church discern charisms? To what are all charisms and ministries
subject? (CL, 24)
Because the Holy Spirit gives gifts that are sometimes not easily recognized, and
because of the power of sin which leads to confusion and disorder.
The Church has the authority of examining the charisms and in cases that are
authentic, of recognizing and granting approval. Judgment as to their (charisms)
genuineness and proper use belongs to those who preside over the Church, and to
whose special competence it belongs, not indeed to extinguish the Spirit, but to test
all things and hold fast to what is good (cf. 1 Thess 5:12 and 19-21), so that all the
charisms might work together, in their diversity and complementarity, for the com-
mon good. (CL, 24)
All charisms are subject to the authority of the bishops.
3
5. What
From can I do to fulfill my responsibility to build up the unity of the Church?
the communion
that Christians
I can place my talents and specific gifts at the service of the Church.
experience in Christ there
Whatever I say should be respectful of the other members of the Body of Christ,
immediately flowswho are legitimate pastors of the Church and those who form part
especially those
of another
the communion which movement within the Church.
I can step over customary bounds and go out of my way to recognize and make
theythose
experience withfrom other nations and cultures feel welcome. They are Christian
Christians
one another:just
all are branches
as much as I am.
I can offer and teach my children to offer small sacrifices for the building up of
of a single vine,
the Body of Christ, such as no complaining, giving up sweets and television, elec-
namely, Christ.
Lesson 3
tronic games, etc.
I can pray for the increase of unity among all Christians, especially those who have
Christifideles Laici, 18
been separated from the Body of Christ.
I can live my life of grace and sacraments with greater delicacy.
6. What can I do to teach my children how to place their gifts at the service of the
Church and her mission?
As a Christian father, through my example, I can teach my children to always be
praying about Gods will and to take this into consideration when planning for edu-
cation, work, marriage, and when facing major steps in life.
I can encourage and in cases that merit, allow my children to check out the pos-
sibility of a religious vocation; giving God the first chance will never be regretted.
I can speak of the Church as Mother who brings us to Christ and to see that she
looks to them with renewed hope. I can help them see Christ in her pastors, in the
sacraments, in her rich traditions.
I can teach my children by my example to give a kind word to a stranger, to treat the
homeless with compassion, to defend the innocent.
I can encourage them to participate in some form of Christian witness such as Youth
for the Third Millennium, Pure Fashion, Conquest and Challenge Camps, Kids for
Jesus, etc.
4 IV. Catechesis:
He descended into hell. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father. From thence he will come again to
judge the living and the dead. (CCC, 631-682)
1. What was the condition of Christs risen humanity? (CCC, 645-647)

[T]he risen body in which he appears to them [apostles] is the same body that had
been tortured and crucified, for it still bears the traces of his passion. Yet at the same
time this authentic, real body possesses the new properties of a glorious body: not
limited by space and time but able to be present how and when he wills; for Christs
humanity can no longer be confined to earth and belongs henceforth only to the
Fathers divine realm. (CCC, 645)
2. List five points that give meaning and significance to the Resurrection of Christ.
(CCC, 651-655)
If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.
(CCC, 651)
Christs Resurrection is the fulfillment of the promises both of the Old Testament
Lesson 4
and of Jesus himself during his earthly life. (CCC, 652)
The truth of Jesus divinity is confirmed by his Resurrection. (CCC, 653)
[B]y his Resurrection, he opens for us the way to a new life. (CCC, 654)
Finally, Christs Resurrection and the risen Christ himself is the principle and
source of our future resurrection ... (CCC, 655)
3. After the Fall, the gates of heaven were closed to man. Now, after Christs death
and Resurrection, how does man have access to heaven? (CCC, 661)
Left to its own natural powers humanity does not have access to the Fathers house,
to Gods life and happiness. Only Christ can open to man such access that we, his
members, might have confidence that we too shall go where he, our Head and our
Source, has preceded us. (CCC, 661)
4. What does Christs Ascension into heaven signify? (CCC, 668)

Christs Ascension into heaven signifies his participation, in his humanity, in Gods
power and authority. Jesus Christ is Lord: he possesses all power in heaven and on
earth. (CCC, 668)
5. Since the turn of the century many anticipated the the end times, the last hour,
or the final age. What does the Church teach about the final age and the age
we are living in now? (CCC, 668-672)
We are already at the last hour. Already the final age of the world is with us, and the
renewal of the world is irrevocably under way; it is even now anticipated in a certain
real way, for the Church on earth is endowed already with a sanctity that is real but
imperfect. (CCC, 670) According to the Lord, the present time is the time of the
Spirit and of witness, but also a time still marked by distress and the trial of evil
which does not spare the Church and ushers in the struggles of the last days. It is a
time of waiting and watching. (CCC, 672)
4
6. What two ways will we be judged when Christ comes again? (CCC, 678-682)
We will be judged according to what is in our hearts and how we treated our neigh-
bors: Then will the conduct of each one and the secrets of the hearts be brought to
light. Then will the culpable unbelief that counted the offer of Gods grace as nothing
be condemned. Our attitude about our neighbor will disclose acceptance or refusal of
grace and divine love. On the last day Jesus will say: Truly I say to you, as you did it to
one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me. (CCC, 678)
IV. Document Discussion

1. What is a catholic spirit? Name 5 ways I show concern for the needs and situation
of souls and the Church, both locally and universally. (CL, 25)
A catholic spirit is a feeling for their own diocese and parish while at the same time
fostering a concern about the needs of the People of God scattered throughout the
world. A catholic spirit means not limiting the cooperation of lay people to parochial
or diocesan boundaries but striving to extend this cooperation, no longer allowing
any sector of society to remain closed in upon itself. (CL, 25)
Lesson 4
I can pray for others asking God to grant their physical and spiritual needs.
I can pray for the Church and all her members but especially the pope, bishops, my
pastors, consecrated men and women, and also for an increase in vocations to the
priesthood, asking God to guide and defend them.
I can show concern for the needs of the Church by staying up to date with issues and
situations that concern the Church in other regions and countries, for example: the
activities and decisions of the Holy Father, and his international travels and speeches;
the activities and concerns of the local bishop of my diocese and the pastor of my
parish; the Christians in persecution such as those in China, Africa, in Muslim or
Hindu nations; Christians who are rejected or accused wrongly within our American
society; the relations between the Orthodox, Protestant, Anglican, and the Catholic
Churches.
I can show zeal for the salvation of souls by my collaboration in and support for the
apostolates (projects) and initiatives of my fellow Christians: promoting them by
word of mouth among my family and friends, sharing resources, giving them encour-
aging words and gestures.
I can commit my time and money to my parish and apostolates to support their mis-
sionary outreach.
2. What are some good sources of information regarding the Catholic Church?
iocesan web sites are a good resource.
D
Catholic newspapers contain a wide variety of information on both events and ini-
tiatives regarding the Church on local, national, and international levels, as well as
Catholic culture, education, and family matters.
The Vaticans Official newspaper, LOsservatore Romano.
4 The National Catholic Register.
Catholic Faith and Family Magazine.
Catholic Radio stations provide information on events at local and national levels,
as well as contact with Catholic teachings, topics of discussion, and faith formation:
see www.relevantradio.com.
Catholic television such as EWTN.
Catholic websites: www.catholic.org, www.vatican.va, www.zenit.org, among many
others
For information on vocations to priesthood and religious life see
www.vocation.com.
3. What is the parish and its purpose? (CL, 26).

The Parish is the family of God, a fellowship afire with a unifying spirit, a famil-
ial and welcoming home, the community of the faithful.
[the parish] is a Eucharistic community. This means that the parish is a commu-
nity properly suited for celebrating the Eucharist, the living source for its up building
and the sacramental bond of its being in full communion with the whole Church.
(CL, 26)
the parish has an indispensible mission to create the basic community of the
Lesson 4
Christian people; to initiate and gather the people in the accustomed expression of
liturgical life; to conserve and renew the faith in the people of today; to serve as the
school for teaching the salvific message of Christ; to put solidarity in practice and
work the humble charity of good and brotherly works.(CL, 26)
4. The Church insists on the absolute necessity of an apostolate exercised by the

individual. What is the explanation for this insistence and what benefits are gained
by such an apostolate? (CL, 28)
Each member should be always aware of his being a member of the Church and
because of his belonging to the Church he is entrusted with a unique task which no
one else can do yet needs to be fulfilled for the good of all.
Each member is unique and irrepeatable as is the mission of service entrusted
to him.
The apostolate exercised by the individual-which flows abundantly from a
truly Christian life (cf. Jn 4: 11)-is the origin and condition of the whole lay apostolate,
even in its organized expression, and admits no substitute. Regardless of circumstance,
all lay persons (including those who have no opportunity or possibility for collabora-
tion in associations) are called to this type of apostolate and obliged to engage in it.
Such an apostolate is useful at all times and places, but in certain circumstances it is
the only one available and feasible(CL, 28).
Benefits gained from the individual form of apostolate include:
-a more extensive spreading of the Gospel due to the number of places reach-
able through the lives of believers
- a more continual spreading of the Gospel since the persons faith and life will
be one
-a more penetrating spread of the Gospel because by sharing fully in the daily
lives of others, Christians will be able to reach the hearts and minds of their
neighbors and friends, and open to them a full sense of human existence that
includes communion with God and with all people
4 5. In recent days the phenomenon of lay people associating among themselves
has taken on a character of particular variety and vitality We can speak
of a new era of group endeavours of the lay faithful. (CL, 29) These lay
associations are also called movements. A list of the associations and
movements can be found in the document International Associations of the
Faithful published by the Pontifical Council for the Laity (available at www.
vatican.va). Research and name three movements and give a brief description
of one of them.
There are many possible responses. Possible answers are: Communion and
Liberation, Focolare, Schnstatt, Neocatecumenal Way, Regnum Christi, as
well as many others.
Brief descriptions may vary. Descriptions can be taken from official websites
as well as from International Associations of the Faithful published by the
Pontifical Council for the Laity.
6. The church recognizes the freedom for lay people in the church to form lay
associations, but also the necessity of criteria for discerning the authenticity
of the forms which such groups take in the Church. What does Pope John
Paul II suggest as Criteria of Ecclesiality for such groups? (CL, 30)
Lesson 4
The primacy given to the call of every Christian to holiness.
The responsibility of professing the Catholic faith.
The witness to a strong and authentic communion in filial relationship to
the Pope.
Conformity to and participation in the Churchs apostolic goals.
A commitment to a presence in human society.
7. So as to render thanks to God for the great gift of Church communion which
is the reflection in time of the eternal and ineffable communion of the love
of God. (CL, 31) What are some ways to build communion and be more
involved in my parish or diocese?
I can get to know the different groups and movements that exist in the Church
and become more aware of their contribution to living the Gospel. Though
they may be different from my own way of living the faith, I can focus on how
much we have in common.
I can foster an attitude of gratitude for all the actions inspired by the Holy
Spirit.
I can foster mutual respect for other groups giving them recognition and
appreciation for their achievements and successes.
Be willing to offer my talents and skills to fill the needs in my parish
Show support for and collaboration with the pastor and his associates, and
offer yourself to contribute in any way he may ask.
Propose starting FAMILIA teams to reach other families and so build and
strengthen the parish.
Show esteem for the parish and speak well of it and the pastor before others:
be able to defend it before those who show less regard to it.
5 V. Catechesis:
I believe in the Holy Spirit (CCC, 683- 747)
1. God gives his children the gift of faith, but how is this gift awakened in us and who
does it reveal? (CCC, 684-687)
Through his grace, the Holy Spirit is the first to awaken faith in us and to communi-
cate to us the new life, which is to know the Father and the one whom he has sent,
Jesus Christ. (CCC, 684)
Now Gods Spirit, who reveals God, makes known to us Christ, his Word, his liv-
ing Utterance, but the Spirit does not speak of himself. The Spirit who has spoken
through the prophets makes us hear the Fathers Word, but we do not hear the Spirit
himself. We know him only in the movement by which he reveals the Word to us and
disposes us to welcome him in faith. (CCC, 687)
2. Identify eight ways the Holy Spirit is present in the Church. (CCC, 688)
he Church, a communion living in the faith of the apostles which she transmits, is the
T
place where we know the Holy Spirit:
in the Scriptures he inspired;
in the Tradition, to which the Church Fathers are always timely witnesses;
in the Church's Magisterium, which he assists;
in the sacramental liturgy, through its words and symbols, in which the Holy Spirit puts
us into communion with Christ;
in prayer, wherein he intercedes for us;
in the charisms and ministries by which the Church is built up;
in the signs of apostolic and missionary life;
Lesson 5
in the witness of saints through whom he manifests his holiness and continues the
work of salvation. (CCC, 688)
3. What is the Sons and the Spirits role in their joint mission? (CCC, 689-690)
When the Father sends his Word, he always sends his Breath. In their joint mission, the
Son and the Spirit are distinct, but inseparable. To be sure, it is Christ who is seen, the
visible image of the invisible God, but it is the Spirit who reveals him. (CCC, 689)
4. How did the Holy Spirit fulfill the Fathers plan of redemption, manifest the Son of
God and bring men into communion with Christ? (CCC, 721-726)
In Mary, the Holy Spirit fulfills the plan of the Fathers loving goodness. Through the
Holy Spirit, the Virgin conceives and gives birth to the Son of God. (CCC, 723)
In Mary, the Holy Spirit manifests the Son of the Father, now become the Son of the
Virgin. (CCC, 724)
Finally,
through Mary, the Holy Spirit begins to bring men, the objects of Gods
merciful love, into communion with Christ. (CCC, 725)
5 5. The communion of the Holy Spirit in the Church restores to the baptized the

divine likeness lost through sin. (CCC, 734) What does the Holy Spirit do for us?
Identify the fruits of the Holy Spirit. (CCC, 729-736 and Galatians 5:22-23)
The Holy Spirit enables prayer and allows us to bear witness to Christ.
The
[Holy] Spirit will teach us everything, remind us of all that Christ said to us and
The [Holy] Spirit will teach us everything, remind us of all that Christ said to us and
bear witness to him. The Holy Spirit will lead us into all truth and will glorify Christ.
He will prove the world wrong about sin, righteousness, and judgment. (CCC,
729)
[T]he fruit of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithful-
ness, gentleness, self control. (Gal 5:22-23)
Through the Holy Spirit we are restored to paradise, led back to the Kingdom of
heaven, and adopted as children, given confidence to call God Father and to share
in Christs grace, called children of light and given a share in eternal glory. (St. Basil,
CCC, 736)
V. Document Discussion
1. Because the lay faithful are members of the Church, they have both the vocation
and the mission of proclaiming the Gospel. How are we prepared and strengthened
for carrying out the task of evangelization? (CL, 32-33)
We are prepared for the task of evangelization by the sacraments of Christian initia-
tion, namely baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
By the grace of the Holy Spirit who endows the Church with his gifts which is shown
in the unity of the faithful among themselves and the living of charity and a life of ser-
Lesson 5
vice. This grace of God is made manifest in countless forms and may include: ones
talents, family, siblings and friendships, the education received, opportunities, even
so-called chance happenings can be the way in which God chooses to act in a cer-
tain way or through a certain event. Try to discover Gods hand in all that happens.
We are strengthened for our task of evangelization by our active participation in the
liturgical life of the community, sharing in the apostolic works, catechetical instruc-
tion, and the better administration of temporal goods. (CL, 33)
We are prepared and strengthened by being united to the vine through friendship
with Christ and daily prayer.
Seek to imitate Jesus who appointed us to go and bear fruit. He sent the Holy Spirit
who pours the charity of Jesus Christ into the hearts of believers, as a mystical
force for internal cohesion and external growth. (CL, 32)
2. Jesus command go and preach the gospel always keeps its value and is an
obligation for all Christians. What is the present situation in the world concerning
the faith and the Church?
laces where the Church was formally flourishing are undergoing a radical transfor-
P
mation.
Indifference to religion, secularism, and indifference to religion are spreading and
many live their life as if God did not exist.
Religion is separated from the significant moments of human life, such as birth,
suffering, and death.
5 here is a shortage of missionaries (lay, consecrated, and priests) in the face of the
T
magnitude of the mission. millions and millions of men and women who as yet
do not know Christ the Redeemer of humanity. (CL, 35)
3. How can we work to overcome the obstacles to the faith? (CL, 34-35)
ur responsibility is to testify how the Christian faith constitutes the only valid re-
O
sponse to the problems and hopes that life poses to every person and society.
The lay faithful need to learn how to overcome in themselves the separation of the
Gospel from life, to again take up in their daily activities in family, work and soci-
ety, an integrated approach to life that is fully brought about by the inspiration and
strength of the Gospel. (CL, 34)
In a world where distances are lessening, the Church ought to strengthen the bond
among its members, exchange energies and means, and commit itself to a mission of
proclaiming and living the Gospel.
The lay people have a role in relations with followers of various other religions
through their example in situations in which they live and in their activities. All lay
faithful ought to be for all a sign of the Lord and his Church. Dialogue among mem-
bers of different religions has a part in leading to love and mutual respect, and tends
to diminish prejudices among followers of various religions while promoting unity and
friendship among peoples. (CL, 35)
[E]veryone, beginning with the Christian family, must feel the responsibility to foster
the birth and growth of vocations, both priestly and religious, as well as in the lay
state, specifically directed to the missions, by relying on all appropriate means and
never neglecting prayer. (CL, 35)
4. Having received the responsibility of manifesting to the world the mystery of

God that shines forth in Jesus Christ, the Church likewise awakens one person to
Lesson 5
another, giving a sense of ones existence, opening each to the whole truth about
the individual and of each persons final destiny. (CL, 36) What is the reason the
Church seeks to help people? Is anyone excluded from the mission of the Church?
he Church seeks to help people because of the example of Jesus Christ who, by
T
becoming man in the womb of the Virgin Mary, made himself a brother to each of us.
For this reason, no person is without value in Gods eyes.
The Church excludes no one from her mission of evangelization: all men and women,
from all walks of life, from every nation, race, culture, language, age, and social situa-
tion are those to whom she directs her efforts.
5. What essential task does the Church provide through evangelization and why is it so
important? (CL, 37-38)
he Churchs task is to make others rediscover the inviolable dignity of every hu-
T
man person and his inviolable rights. (CL, 37)
The dignity of the person is the most precious possession of an individual. (CL, 37) The
Church believes that one person is of infinite value, worth more than the value of the
whole material world.
The dignity of the person constitutes the foundation of the equality of all people among
themselves. (CL, 37)
Each person is unique and irrepeatable and can never be reduced to namelessness or
grouped into an impersonal system.
5 ffirming the right to life is prior to affirming other rights since it is upon the basic
A
fact of human existence that other rights depend, and without which such other
rights are meaningless.
The Church stands to combat a culture of death.
The Church promotes a culture of life, wherein every human being is lovingly
and generously accepted, especially those who are weak and sick, suffering and
defenseless.
The lay faithful have the responsibility of making the Churchs response in accepting
life more concrete and efficacious through their profession.
There are threats to human dignity found in science and technology.
humanity is in the position not only of observing but even exercising a control
over human life at its very beginning and in its first stages of development. (CL, 38)
Persons engaged in scientific research and its applications have to act with
intelligence and love, respecting the dignity of every human being: a legitimate use of
science defends life and cures it of diseases while refusing-even for research purposes-
to perform acts falsifying the genetic material of the human person.
6. What is religious freedom? How is this right related to other fundamental rights?
(CL, 39)
eligious freedom is the freedom of individuals and of communities to profess and
R
practice their religion.
The right to freely practice and profess their religion is good for the person and for
society.
This right is akin to a cornerstone of the structure of human rights, and since it
touches the most intimate sphere of the person -which is the spirit- it is a point of
reference for other fundamental rights.
Religious liberty is a measure of other rights in the sense that if the right to religious
Lesson 5
freedom is respected by the laws of a certain nation, it is most likely that so will the
other rights, such as the right to life, to work, to own private property, to marry and
raise a family, and so on. However, if religious freedom is not supported by the law,
then there is a good chance other rights will not find support either.
7. The lay faithfuls duty to society primarily begins in marriage and in the family.
This duty can only be fulfilled adequately with the conviction of the unique and
irreplaceable value that the family has in the development of society and the Church
herself. (CL, 40) What can I do to promote the dignity of the family?
I can join in groups and associations that defend the rights and interests of families,
and encourage others to do so as well.
I can make sure I am leading my own family well, since my own children will look to
me in the future when they lead their own families.
I can subscribe to periodicals and magazines that support and encourage Catholic
family living, such as the National Catholic Register and Faith and Family.
I can show encouragement and support, even with financial matters, towards other
families in need of help and assistance.
When particular attention merits, I can seek help and tips from other successful
parents about how to lead my own family.
6 VI. Catechesis:
1. How was the Church prepared and prefigured in the Old Testament and when did
Christ institute it? (CCC, 761-766, 771)wit
The remote preparation for this gathering together of the People of God begins when
he calls Abraham and promises that he will become the father of a great people.
(CCC, 762)
The gathering together of the People of God began at the moment when sin
destroyed the communion of men with God, and that of men among themselves.
(CCC, 761)
The Church is born primarily of Christs total self-giving for our salvation,
anticipated in the institution of the Eucharist and fulfilled on the cross For it was
from the side of Christ as he slept the sleep of death upon the cross that there came
forth the wondrous sacrament of the whole Church. As Eve was formed from the sleeping
Adams side, so the Church was born from the pierced heart of Christ hanging dead
on the cross. (CCC, 766)
The Church has both human and divine realities, both visible and spiritual. The one
mediator, Christ, established and ever sustains here on earth his holy Church, the
community of faith, hope, and charity, as a visible organization through which he
communicates truth and grace to all men. (Lumen Gentium 8, CCC, 771)
2. How do the People of God participate in the Christs priestly, prophetic, and kingly
offices? (CCC, 783-786)
On entering the People of God through the faith and Baptism, one receives a
share in this peoples unique priestly vocation The baptized, by regeneration and
the anointing of the Holy Spirit, are consecrated to be a spiritual house and a holy
priesthood. (CCC, 784)
The holy People of God shares also in Christs prophetic office, above all in the
supernatural sense of faith that belongs to the whole People, lay and clergy, when
it unfailingly adheres to this faithonce for all delivered to the saints, and when it
deepens its understanding and becomes Christs witness in the midst of this world.
(CCC, 785)
Lesson 6
Finally, the People of God shares in the royal office of Christ For the Christian, to
reign is to serve him, particularly when serving the poor and suffering The People
of God fulfills its royal dignity by a life in keeping with its vocation to serve with
Christ. (CCC, 786)
3. What are the four characteristics (commonly known as marks) of the Catholic
Church? Give an explanation of each. (CCC, 811-856)
he Church is one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.
T
The Church does not possess them of herself; it is Christ who, through the Holy
Spirit makes his Church one, holy, catholic, and apostolic, and it is he who calls her
to realize each of these qualities. (CCC, 811)
One: The Church is one because of her source ... The Church is one because of her
founder The Church is one because of her soul. (CCC, 813)
Holy: The Church is held, as a matter of faith, to be unfailingly holy. This is
because Christ, the Son of God, who with the Father and the Holy Spirit is hailed as
6
alone holy, loved the Church as his Bride, giving himself up for her so as to sanctify
her (CCC, 823)
Catholic:
- First, the Church is catholic because Christ is present in her. (CCC, 830)
- Secondly, the Church is catholic because she has been sent out by Christ on a
mission to the whole of the human race. (CCC, 831)
Apostolic: The Church is apostolic because she is founded on the apostles, in three
ways:
- she was and remains built on the foundations of the Apostles,;
- with the help of the Holy Spirit dwelling in her, the Church keeps and hands
on the teaching, the good deposit, the salutary words she has heard from the
apostles;
- she continues to be taught, sanctified, and guided by the apostles until Christs
return, through their successors in pastoral office (CCC, 857)
4. What does laity mean and what is their vocation? (CCC, 897-913)
The term laity is here understood to mean all the faithful except those in Holy Or-
ders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. (CCC, 897)
By reason of their special vocation it belongs to the laity to seek the kingdom of
God by engaging in temporal affairs and directing them according to Gods will. It
pertains to them in a special way so to illuminate and order all temporal things with
which they are closely associated that these may always be effected and grow accord-
ing to Christ and may be to the glory of the Creator and Redeemer. " (CCC, 898)
5. What are the three states of the Church? (CCC, 954-962)

The three states of the Church. When the Lord comes in glory, and all his angels with
him, death will be no more and all things will be subject to him. But at the present time
some of his disciples are pilgrims on earth. Others have died and are being purified,
while still others are in glory, contemplating in full light, God himself triune and one,
exactly as he is. (CCC, 954) These states are commonly known as:
The Church Militant (pilgrims on earth);
The Church Suffering (souls suffering in Purgatory in hope of attaining heaven); and
The Church Triumphant (saints, souls in heaven).
Lesson 6
VI. Document Discussion
Lesson 6 Docemnt Discussion begins on page 108 of the workbook.
1. What is the way Christians participate in the kingly mission of Christ?

(CL, 41)
Through charity towards one's neighbor, the lay faithful exercise and manifest their
participation in the kingship of Christ, that is, in the power of the Son of Man who
came not to be served but to serve. (Mk 10:45). (CL, 41)
They live and manifest such a kingship in a most simple yet exalted manner, possible
for everyone at all times because charity is the highest gift offered by the Spirit for
building up the Church (cf. 1 Cor 13:13) and for the good of humanity. (CL, 41)
charity gives life and sustains the works of solidarity that look to the total needs
of the human being. (CL, 41)
Charity towards one's neighbor, through contemporary forms of the traditional spiritual
6
and corporal works of mercy, represent the most immediate, ordinary and habitual
ways that lead to the Christian animation of the temporal order, the specific duty of
the lay faithful. (CL, 41)
For this reason, mercy to the poor and the sick, works of charity and mutual aid
intended to relieve human needs of every kind, are held in special honour in the
Church. (CL, 41)
2. What is the basic standard of public life? What is the fundamental element in the
exercise of political power? (CL, 42)
he pursuit of the common good is the basic standard of public life.
T
Public life on behalf of the person and society finds its basic standard in the pursuit of
the common good, as the good of everyone and as the good of each person taken as a
whole, which is guaranteed and offered in a fitting manner to people, both as indi-
viduals and in groups, for their free and responsible acceptance. (CL, 42)
The spirit of service is a fundamental element in the exercise of political power.
(CL, 42)
This spirit of service, together with the necessary competence and efficiency, can
make virtuous or above criticism the activity of persons in public life which is justly
demanded by the rest of the people. (CL, 42)
To accomplish this requires a full scale battle and a determination to overcome
every temptation, such as the recourse to disloyalty and to falsehood, the waste of
public funds for the advantage of a few and those with special interests, and the use
of ambiguous and illicit means for acquiring, maintaining and increasing power at
any cost. (CL, 42)
3. [E]very person has a right and duty to participate in public life (CL, 42) In
general, how are we called to participate and what is the fruit of sound political
activity?
hristians are called to act in their own names as citizens guided by a Christian con-
C
science. This should be distinguished from Christian activity in communion with their
pastors in the name of the Church.
Charity cannot be separated from justice. Christians therefore strive to instill Chris-
tian truths in public life, thus promoting the common good.
The lay faithful are called to participate in the many different economic, social,
Lesson 6
legislative, administrative and cultural areas, which are intended to promote organi-
cally and institutionally the common good. (CL, 42)
every person has a right and duty to participate in public life, albeit in a diversity
and complementarity of forms, levels, tasks and responsibilities. (CL, 42)
Education based on the personal dignity of each human being is required in the de-
fense and the promotion of justice, understood to be a virtue.
The fruit of sound political activity is peace.
4. Describe the Churchs view of the so-called ecological question. (CL, 43)
According to the plan of God the goods of the earth are offered to all people and to
each individual as a means towards the development of a truly human life. (CL, 43)
Humanity has in its possession a gift that must be passed on to future generations,
if possible, passed on in better condition. (CL, 43)
"By work an individual ordinarily provides for self and family, is joined in fellowship
to others, and renders them service; and is enabled to exercise genuine charity and be
6
a partner in the work of bringing divine creation to perfection. Moreover, we know
that through work offered to God an individual is associated with the redemptive
work of Jesus Christ, whose labour with his hands at Nazareth greatly ennobled the
dignity of work." (CL, 43)
Certainly humanity has received from God himself the task of dominating the cre-
ated world and cultivating the garden of the world. But this is a task that humanity
must carry out in respect for the divine image received, and, therefore, with intel-
ligence and with love, assuming responsibility for the gifts that God has bestowed
and continues to bestow. (CL, 43)
The limitation imposed from the beginning by the Creator himself and expressed
symbolically by the prohibition not to 'eat of the fruit of the tree' (cf. Gen 2:16-17)
shows clearly enough that, when it comes to the natural world, we are subject not
only to biological laws but also to moral ones, which cannot be violated with impu-
nity. (CL, 43)
A true concept of development cannot ignore the use of the things of nature, the
renewability of resources and the consequences of haphazard industrialization-three
considerations which alert our consciences to the moral dimension of development.
(CL, 43)
The created world is both a gift and a task, and development has a moral
dimension.
5. How is culture defined in Christifidiles Laici, and what are some of the ways the
Church seeks to influence culture? (CL, 44)
he creation and transmission of culture is the expression and fulfillment of service
T
to the human person and to society.
Culture means all those factors which go to the refining and developing of human-
ity's diverse spiritual and physical endowments. It means the efforts of the human
family to bring the world under its control through its knowledge and its labour; to
humanize social life both in the family and in the whole civic community through
the improvement of customs and institutions; to express through its works the great
spiritual experiences and aspirations of all peoples throughout the ages; finally, to
communicate and to preserve them to be an inspiration for the progress of many,
indeed of the whole human race. (CL, 44)
culture must be held as the common good of every people, the expression of its
Lesson 6
dignity, liberty and creativity, and the testimony of its course through history. In par-
ticular, only from within and through culture does the Christian faith become a part
of history and the creator of history. (CL, 44)
the Church calls upon the lay faithful to be present, as signs of courage and
intellectual creativity, in the privileged places of culture, that is, the world of edu-
cation-school and university-in places of scientific and technological research, the
areas of artistic creativity and work in the humanities. (CL, 44)
In areas where culture becomes separated from human values, the Church seeks
to affect and challenge through the power of the Gospel, mankind's criteria of
judgment, determining values, points of interest, lines of thought, sources of inspira-
tion and models of life, which are in contrast with the Word of God and the plan of
salvation. (CL, 44)
The world of the mass media represents a new frontier for the mission of the
Church, because it is undergoing a rapid and innovative development and has an
extensive worldwide influence on the formation of mentality and customs. (CL, 44)
6
The use of these instruments by professionals in communication and their reception
by the public demand both a work of education in a critical sense, which is animated
by a passion for the truth, and a work of defense of liberty, respect for the dignity
of individuals, and the elevation of the authentic culture of peoples which occurs
through a firm and courageous rejection of every form of monopoly and manipula-
tion. (CL, 44)
6. The Church has so much to talk about with youth, and youth have so much to
share with the Church (CL, 46). What are some ways the Church reaches out to
youth today?
orld Youth Days with the Pope are very attractive and successful.
W
Eucharistic congresses and youth and family encounters are replicable on closer levels.
Hours of service in a parish in preparation for confirmation.
Various diocesan programs, networks, and retreats.
By sharing its experiences and spiritual richness with youth through means such as
books, like Crossing the Threshold of Hope and Jesus of Nazareth.
Lay people themselves can be instruments of evangelizing through their own example
and closeness with youth.
Service missions through various organizations including Youth for the Third Millen-
nium. (www.youth4missions.com)
Organizations such as Mission Network (www.missionnetwork.com )that offer pro-
grams for youth and parishes.
7. The Church recognizes the possibilities of participating in the Churchs mission

in all her members, from the very young to older people. What are some of these
possibilities? (CL, 47-48)
Children
- The
presence of children contributes to the building up of a family and to the
unity of the parents.
- Children can remind parents of Gods greatness, and recall the simpler aspects
of life.
- The prayers and examples of children can stimulate adults and others to
greater consideration and attentiveness to others.
- Children help parents feel needed and appreciated in the midst of a world
Lesson 6
that is becoming ever more impersonal and distant.
Older people
- Someone
rich in wisdom.
- Witness of faith by a positive and likeable testimony of daily life carried out in
union with Christ and his Church.
- Through personal example such as life of prayer, concern for neighbors, and
acts of charity for others.
- As a teacher of life experiences and first hand events about the lessons.
- Retirement of persons from various professions provides older people with
a new opportunity in the apostolate. (CL, 48)
- Arriving
at an older age is to be considered a privilege: not simply because
not everyone has the good fortune to reach this stage in life, but also, and
above all, because this period provides real possibilities for better evaluating
the past, for knowing and living more deeply the Paschal Mystery, for becom-
ing an example in the Church for the whole People of God ... (CL, 48)
7 VII. Catechesis:
I believe in the forgiveness of sins (CCC, 976-1019)
1. When did Christ confer the power to the apostles to forgive sins? (CCC, 976)
It was when he gave the Holy Spirit to his apostles that the risen Christ conferred on
them his own divine power to forgive sins: Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins
of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained. (CCC, 976)
2. If baptism forgives original sins, why do we still need the sacrament of confession?
(CCC, 977-980)
When we made our first profession of faith while receiving the holy Baptism that
cleansed us, the forgiveness we received then was so full and complete that there
remained in us absolutely nothing left to efface, neither original sin nor offenses com-
mitted by our own will, nor was there left any penalty to suffer in order to expiate them
Yet the grace of Baptism delivers no one from all the weakness of nature. On the con-
trary, we must still combat the movements of concupiscence that never cease leading
us into evil. (CCC, 978)
3. What does resurrection of the body mean for us? (CCC, 988-991)
The term flesh refers to man in his state of weakness and mortality. The resurrection
of the flesh (the literal formulation of the Apostles Creed) means not only that the
immortal soul will live on after death, but that even our mortal body will come to life
again. (CCC, 990)
4. Read paragraphs 1005-1009 and find the three aspects of death.

Death is the end of earthly life. (CCC, 1007)
Death is a consequence of sin. (CCC, 1008)
Death is transformed by Christ. (CCC, 1009)
5. How can death, the end of earthly life, have a positive meaning
(CCC, 1005-1014) and how can we, in everyday life, die with Christ?
Because of Christ, Christian death has a positive meaning: For to me to live is Christ,
and to die is gain. The saying is sure: if we have died with him, we will also live with
him. What is essentially new about Christian death is this: through Baptism, the
Christian has already died with Christ sacramentally, in order to live a new life; and if
we die in Christs grace, physical death completes this dying with Christ and so com-
pletes our incorporation into him in his redeeming act (CCC, 1010)
VII. Document Discussion

Lesson 7
1. Why does the Church give special attention to the status and role of women? (CL, 49)
There are two reasons:
- f or the Church to acknowledge and to invite all others to acknowledge the
indispensable contribution of women to the building up of the Church and
society; and,
7 - t o work on a more specific analysis of womens participation in the life and
mission of the Church.
Pope John XXIII saw womens greater consciousness of their proper dignity and their
entrance into public life as signs of our times.
[T]he Synod Fathers, when confronted with the various forms of discrimination and
marginization to which women are subjected simply because they are women, time
and time again strongly affirmed the urgency to defend and to promote the personal
dignity of woman, and consequently, her equality with man. (CL, 49)
The evidence is taken from the gospel of Jesus Christ, who detached himself from the
culture of the time and called women to contribute to the spread of the Gospel.
2.What are some of the Churchs contributions to the promotion of women in

society? (CL, 50)
he Church obeys God who created the individual human person in his image,
T
male and female he created them (Gen 1:27). (CL, 50)
She accepts the plan, indelibly imprinted in the very being of the human person,
shown in the make-up, meaning, and deepest workings of the individual.
The Church also sees Gods plan for woman within the context of the faith of the
Church and in the lives of many present-day Christian women.
The Church reaffirms the personhood of woman and her capacity to receive the
grace of salvation by Jesus Christ.
Recognition given to their contribution in the history of events of society and of the Church.
3. What two great tasks are entrusted to women? (CL, 51)

he task of bringing full dignity to conjugal life and to motherhood.
T
The task of assuring the moral dimension of culture as worthy of the person: "Let
the lay faithful by their combined efforts remedy the institutions and conditions
of the world when the latter are an inducement to sin, that all such things may be
conformed to the norms of justice, and may favor the practice of virtue rather than
hindering it. By so doing, they will infuse culture and human works with a moral
value". (CL, 51)
4. Name some of the instances where the Church laments the absence or scarcity
of men (CL, 52).
articipation in liturgical prayer.
P
Education and catechesis of their own and other children.
Presence at religious and cultural meetings.
Collaboration in charitable and missionary efforts.
5. How does the Church promote the harmonious presence and collaboration of men
and women in society and in the Church? (CL, 52)
Lesson 7
y the fulfillment of the tasks and responsibilities of the couple and of the Christian
B
family in which diverse forms of life and love are seen and communicated.
By promoting the Christian family as a community in which the relationships are
renewed by Christ through faith and the sacraments.
the familys sharing in the Churchs mission should follow a community pattern: the
spouses together as a couple, the parents and children as a family, must live their ser-
vice to the Church and to the world ... (CL, 52)
7
he family builds up the kingdom of God in history through everyday realities that
T
concern and distinguish its state of life.
By the significance given to the sacrament of matrimony, the Church seeks to illumi-
nate and inspire the relations between men and women.
6. Even the sick are sent forth as labourers into the Lords vineyard the sick are called
to live their human and Christian vocation and to participate in the growth of the
Kingdom of God in a new and even more valuable manner. (CL, 53) How should
pastoral action towards the sick and suffering be directed? (CL, 53-54)
he Church has to try to meet the suffering person. In this meeting man 'becomes the
T
way for the Church', and this is one of the most important ways. At this moment the suf-
fering individual is the way of the Church because that person is, first of all, the way of Christ
Himself, who is the Good Samaritan who does not pass by, but has compassion on
him, went to him ... bound up his wounds ... took care of him (Lk 10:32-34). (CL, 53)
One objective is an attitude regarding the sick, handicapped, or suffering individual,
considering him not simply as an object of concern and love, but as an active and
responsible participant in the work of salvation and evangelization. (CL, 54)
By teaching that the Gospel is the proclamation that suffering can have a positive
meaning for the individual and for society.
By reminding the faithful that each person is called to participate in the salvific suf-
ferings of Christ as well as in the joy of the resurrection, and so to become a force
for the sanctification and building up of the Church.
We ask precisely you who are weak to become a source of strength for the Church
and humanity. (CL, 54)
7. All the states of life, whether taken collectively or individually in relation to the
others, are at the service of the Churchs growth. While different in expression
they are deeply united in the Churchs mystery of communion and are dynamically
coordinated in its unique mission. (CL, 55) What services does the lay state of life
fulfill? (CL, 55-56)
he lay faithful provide the service of bearing witness to and recalling the signifi-
T
cance of everyday realities in Gods plan of salvation.
A lay spirituality seeks to promote the universal call to holiness of all Christians while
supporting the specific aspects of the different ways in which it can be fulfilled.
8. within the lay state diverse vocations are given, that is, there are different paths
in the spiritual life and the apostolate which are taken by individual members of
the lay faithful. (CL, 56) What considerations are needed to know which path to
follow? (CL, 56)
L ay spirituality should consider the circumstances of ones state of life (single, mar-
ried, raising young children, widowed) and health, as well as ones professional and
Lesson 7
social activity.
All should seek to develop the talents and qualities bestowed on them in accord
with their conditions in life.
each is called by name, to make a special contribution to the coming of the King-
dom of God. No talent, no matter how small, is to be hidden or left unused (cf. Mt
25:24-27). (CL, 56)
As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as good stewards of God's
varied grace." (1 Pt 4:10)
8 VIII. Catechesis: I Believe in Life Everlasting (CCC, 1020-1065)
1. Read the Churchs last words of pardon and absolution said before one dies (CCC,
1020). How do these words, along with the anointing with oil and the viaticum,
give strength and assurance for the Christians journey to meet his maker?
The Christian who unites his own death to that of Jesus views it as a step towards
him and an entrance into everlasting life. (CCC, 1020)
They are words spoken with gentle assurance. They are words of hope.
2. What is heaven? (CCC, 1023-1029)

This perfect life with the Most Holy Trinity this communion of life and love with the
Trinity, with the Virgin Mary, the angels and all the blessed is called heaven. Heaven
is the ultimate end and fulfillment of the deepest human longings, the state of su-
preme, definitive happiness. (CCC, 1024)
3. What is the final purification of Gods chosen people? (CCC, 1030-1032)

All who die in Gods grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed
assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to
achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven. (CCC, 1030)
4. Why are some souls damned to hell? (CCC, 1033-1037)

We cannot be united with God unless we freely choose to love him. But we cannot
love God if we sin gravely against him, against our neighbor or against ourselves: He
who does not love remains in death. Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer,
and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. Our Lord warns us
that we shall be separated from him if we fail to meet the serious needs of the poor
and the little ones who are his brethren. To die in mortal sin without repenting and
accepting Gods merciful love means remaining separated from him forever by our
own free choice. (CCC, 1033)
God predestines no one to go to hell; for this, a willful turning away from God (a
mortal sin) is necessary, and persistence in it until the end. (CCC, 1037)
5. What is the Last Judgment and when will it come? (CCC, 1038-1060)
At the end of time, the Kingdom of God will come in its fullness. After the universal
judgment, the righteous will reign for ever with Christ, glorified in body and soul.
The universe itself will be renewed (CCC, 1042)
We know not the moment of the consummation of the earth and of man, nor they
way in which the universe will be transformed. (Gaudium et Spes, CCC, 1048)
6. What does Amen mean? (CCC, 1061-1065)

In Hebrew, amen comes from the same root as the word believe. This root ex-
presses solidity, trustworthiness, faithfulness. And so we can understand why Amen
may express both Gods faithfulness towards us and our trust in him. (CCC, 1062)
Thus the Creeds final Amen repeats and confirms its first words: I believe. To
believe is to say Amen to Gods words, promises and commandments (CCC,
1064)
Lesson 8
8 VIII. Document Discussion
Lesson 8 Document Discussion begins on page 147of the workbook.
1. The lay faithfuls life and mission: the call to growth and a continual process
of maturation, of always bearing much fruit.(CL, 57). What image is used to
present this idea? What role does man have in this bearing of fruit?
The image of the vine, Jesus, and the branches, the lay faithful, who are to grow,
mature, and bear fruit.
The vine dresser is God. As a diligent vinedresser, the Father takes care of his vine.
(CL, 57) The Father as the vinedresser who carefully tends his choice vine. This im-
age represents the Fathers regard for his creation, which is not just an act of the
past, but an action taking place in the present and thus, alive, continual, a process
of growth and maturation.
Jesus again presents this image at the Last Supper (John 15), The vitality of the
branches depends on their remaining attached to the vine, which is Jesus Christ: He
who abides in me and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
(CL, 57) Jesus identifies himself as the vine.
People are approached freely by God who calls everyone to grow, develop and bear
fruit: while God offers his gifts, man too has a role in the bearing of fruit. This role
consists in mans conscious and willing collaboration: while apart from the vine the
branch will only wither up and die, just so will the Christian separated from Christ
also wither and die; as the branch united to the vine will bear fruit, so will the Chris-
tian united to Christ bear abundant fruit.
2. What are the objectives for formation of the lay faithful (CL, 58)?
The first objective of formation of the lay faithful is an ever-clearer discovery of
ones [God-given] vocation: in creating me God calls me into life and gives me a
mission to accomplish during my lifetime. This calling gives me a personal dignity
and responsibility, and should be the focal point of the whole work of formation.
However, only in the unfolding of history in day to day events is this eternal plan of
God revealed to each one of us.
The second objective of formation of the lay faithful is the ever-greater willingness
to live [ones God-given vocation] While knowing Gods eternal plan for me is
essential, it is not enough on its own: I must do what God wants, and so grow in the
full living of my baptism and faith. Acting in full accordance with Gods will is pos-
sible given our free and responsible collaboration with Gods grace which is never
lacking.
3. Name five possible sources for coming to know and discern the actual will of God
in our lives (CL, 58).
In discovering the actual will of God in our lives the following should always be
included:
1. A receptive listening to the Word of God and the Church.
2. Fervent and constant prayer.
3. Recourse to a wise and loving spiritual guide.
4. Faithful discernment of the gifts and talents given by God.
5. Discernment of the diverse social and historic situations in which one lives.
Lesson 8
8 4. What is the principle that guides the formation of the lay faithful? Why is it

important? (CL, 59)
Union: the importance of unity between our lives as members of the Church and
our lives as citizens of society. He addresses this point because of the temptation to
separate faith from life.
The branch, engrafted to the vine which is Christ, bears its fruit in every sphere of
existence and activity. (CL, 59)
Every activity, every situation, every precise responsibility are the occasions ordained by
Providence for a continuous exercise of faith, hope and charity. (CL, 59)
a faith that does not affect a person's culture is a faith not fully embraced, not
entirely thought out, not faithfully lived. (CL, 59)
5. A totally integrated formation of the lay faithful consists of spiritual, doctrinal, and
human formation. Describe and discuss each of these areas. (CL, 60)
Spiritual formation consists of a life of intimate union with Jesus Christ lived in con-
formity with the will of God and in service to others out of charity and justice. This
includes the life of sacraments and participation in Mass, as well as a personal and
real friendship with the Lord.
Doctrinal formation, which allows a better understanding of faith and provides the
ability to give a reason for our hope. Doctrinal formation consists of systematic
catechesis of the Christian faith as well as the social teaching of the Church. It includes
a decided Christian promotion of culture in response to the new questions that concern
individuals and society today, as well as formation of a social conscience.
Human formation includes the cultivation of human values, such as professional skill,
family and civic spirit, and social virtues such as honesty, a spirit of justice, courtesy,
and moral courage.
6.Christian formation finds its origin and its strength in God the Father who
loves and educates his children. (CL, 61) From where do the lay faithful receive
formation? (CL, 61-62)
First of all the Church is a teacher, in which the Pope takes the primary role in the
formation of the lay faithful. As successor of Saint Peter, he has the ministry of con-
firming his brothers in the faith, instructing all believers in the essential content of
vocation and mission in light of the Christian faith and membership in the Church.
(CL, 61) the Bishop in his person has a responsibility towards the lay faithful, in
forming the animation and guidance of their Christian life through the proclamation
of the Word and the celebration of the Eucharist and the Sacraments. (CL, 61)
the Parish which has the essential task of a more personal and immediate forma-
tion of the lay faithful. (CL, 61)
small Church communities, where present, can be a notable help in the formation of
Christians, by providing a consciousness and an experience of ecclesial communion
and mission which are more extensive and incisive. (CL, 61)
The Christian family, as the domestic Church, also makes up a natural and funda-
mental school for formation in the faith: father and mother receive from the Sacra-
ment of Matrimony the grace and the ministry of the Christian education of their
children, before whom they bear witness and to whom they transmit both human
and religious values. (CL, 62)
Schools and Catholic universities, as well as centers of spiritual renewal which are becoming
ever more widespread in these days, are also important places for formation. (CL, 62)
Lesson 8
8 Groups, associations and movements also have their place in the formation of the lay
faithful. In fact they have the possibility, each with its own method, of offering a
formation through a deeply shared experience in the apostolic life, as well as hav-
ing the opportunity to integrate, to make concrete and specific the formation that
their members receive from other persons and communities. (CL, 62)
7. What is required in order to achieve the widespread formation of the lay

faithful? What convictions are necessary in the work of formation? (CL, 63)
In order to achieve the widespread formation of the lay faithful, it is required
that special attention be given to the educators themselves.
the formation of those who will form others (CL, 63)
Lay educators and formators, faithfully instructed and adequately prepared,
give assurance that a keen and effective pastoral ministry will reach the lay
faithful on a wider scale and in a timely manner.
Lay educators and formators complement and greatly extend the efforts made
by clergy and men and women religious in the area of pastoral guidance.
Convictions necessary for formation.
A sense of self formation wherein the individual takes upon himself the task
of formation, not sitting around passively, but actively engages himself and
makes himself the first one responsible in his own formation. This conviction
makes him aware of what will be expected of him: no body can give what they
do not have.
The conviction wherein each of us is the start and finish of our formation: the
more we are formed, the more we will feel the need to deepen in our formation,
and so will we be more formed and capable of forming others.
The conviction that when formation is open to the action of God, even when
due consideration is given to human sciences, it is more effective.
Lesson 8

Men & Faith - Answers

Caricato da

Informazioni sul documento

Titolo originale

Copyright

Formati disponibili

Condividi questo documento

Condividi o incorpora il documento

Opzioni di condivisione

Hai trovato utile questo documento?

Questo contenuto è inappropriato?

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Men & Faith - Answers

Caricato da

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Men and Faith

Lesson 2: I Am the Vine and You Are the Branches.............................................. 6

Lesson 3: All Branches of a Single Vine................................................................ 9

Lesson 4: The Lay Faithfuls Participation in the Life of the Church.................... 13

Lesson 5: I Have Appointed You to Go Forth and Bear Fruit.............................. 17

Lesson 6: Charity: The Soul and Sustenance of Solidarity................................... 21

Lesson 7: Women and Men............................................................................... 26

Lesson 8: That You Bear Much Fruit.................................................................. 29

Familia USA Inc 763-391-0204 www.familiausa.net

Men and Faith 

3. What is the consubstantial Trinity? (CCC, 253-256)

6. What are the effects of original sin? (CCC, 385-421)

IV. Document Discussion

1. What does the term laity mean?

3. Why is it not permissible for anyone to remain idle? (CL, 3)

3. Who is the author of Christs Passion and death? (CCC, 597-598)

5. Explain how Christs death is a gift and an offering. (CCC, 606-617)

1. What was the condition of Christs risen humanity? (CCC, 645-647)

4. What does Christs Ascension into heaven signify? (CCC, 668)

IV. Document Discussion

3. What is the parish and its purpose? (CL, 26).

4. The Church insists on the absolute necessity of an apostolate exercised by the

4. Having received the responsibility of manifesting to the world the mystery of

5. What are the three states of the Church? (CCC, 954-962)

1. What is the way Christians participate in the kingly mission of Christ?

7. The Church recognizes the possibilities of participating in the Churchs mission

4. Read paragraphs 1005-1009 and find the three aspects of death.

VII. Document Discussion

Lesson 7 Document Discussion begins on page 127 of the workbook. 

2.What are some of the Churchs contributions to the promotion of women in

3. What two great tasks are entrusted to women? (CL, 51)

2. What is heaven? (CCC, 1023-1029)

3. What is the final purification of Gods chosen people? (CCC, 1030-1032)

4. Why are some souls damned to hell? (CCC, 1033-1037)

6. What does Amen mean? (CCC, 1061-1065)

7. What is required in order to achieve the widespread formation of the lay

Potrebbero piacerti anche

Men and Faith

IV. Document Discussion

IV. Document Discussion

4. The Church insists on the absolute necessity of an apostolate exercised by the

4. Having received the responsibility of manifesting to the world the mystery of

1. What is the way Christians participate in the kingly mission of Christ?

7. The Church recognizes the possibilities of participating in the Churchs mission

VII. Document Discussion

Lesson 7 Document Discussion begins on page 127 of the workbook.

2.What are some of the Churchs contributions to the promotion of women in

7. What is required in order to achieve the widespread formation of the lay