Page 16 - Lessons and Activities on What Makes Us Catholic

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THE CROSS
Objective
To deepen understanding of the symbol of the cross
Background for Catechists
e cross is one of the earliest and most widely used Christian symbols. It illuminates a core belief of the Christian faith: Jesus died on
the cross and was raised from the dead. Even though it was the means of execution for criminals at the time of Jesus, it is now a sign of victory over death and su ering.
roughout history, a great variety of cross- es have developed, some with speci c symbolic meaning and others that are associated with various groups or nationalities.
e cross has been used in paintings, stat- ues, church decorations, and jewelry through- out the history of Christianity. We especially use the cross in physical gestures, as we make the sign of the cross in prayer, remembering our baptism and our following of Christ.
Materials
□ Copies of handout
□ Books with examples of various crosses □ Printed pages from the Internet for each
cross (You might ask parents or teens in
your parish to prepare this information.)
□ Pencils, markers, and crayons
□ Poster boards or large construction paper □ 5 x 8 cards
□ Paint and clay
Lesson Starter
Ask: Have you ever belonged to a club that had a symbol by which everyone knew who you were, the purpose of your group?
We belong to the Christian family. Is there a sign or symbol that reminds us and others that we are Jesus’ followers?
Explain that, throughout history, the cross has always pointed to the identity of Chris- tians, but the symbol of the cross has been expressed in various ways —each telling us a little something about our beliefs.
Activity
Distribute copies of the handout. Invite each learner to choose one or more of the crosses. In the space next to the crosses, have them write what they think the cross symbolizes, based on its title or shape. en invite them to design their own cross in the frame. is additional cross should be their original design. How would their cross illustrate something they believe about Jesus or about our faith? Gather the group together and invite them to share their responses and their own cross designs.
Options
▪ Invite students to research the various crosses on the handout and bring
the results to the next session.
▪ Have them make a cross poster and display it by the prayer table.
Prayer Together
We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
Options
▪ e learners could be given only the names of the crosses; they would research the meaning and image.
▪ Invite your children/youth to create a cross that incorporates symbols of their community.
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Twenty-Third Publications Sample