So your child just came home from church, where she actually listened to the homily, during which Father commented on the spiritual works of mercy; and now she’s asking you what he was talking about. You have a dim memory of spiritual and corporal works of mercy…but can you remember them? Or, come to think of it, talk about the 10 commandments, the creed, or the beatitudes?
We just added a new book, The Beatitudes Explained, to our Explained series, which is aimed at children 8 to 12 (grade levels three to seven). But we have a feeling that you’ll find the series useful and interesting as well!
1) The Beatitudes Explained
This fourth addition to the Explained series helps children discover the meaning behind the eight Beatitudes, guidelines for living as Jesus taught us. This standalone volume helps children understand the passage from Matthew's gospel known as the Sermon on the Mount. At first glance, the Beatitudes can appear to be confusing. How are we "blessed" when we mourn? How are those who are "poor" in spirit also blessed? This easy-to-follow book breaks the Beatitudes down into simple scripturally based lessons, inspiring children with concrete exercises for spiritual formation. Engaging illustrations and activities for use in the classroom and beyond will help children walk in the footsteps of Jesus.
2) The Creed Explained
As children begin to question more about their faith, use The Creed Explained to help them understand the basic beliefs held by the Catholic Church and to begin delving more deeply into their faith. This guide explores each of the twelve "articles", or lines, of the Apostles' Creed. The chapters examine the articles piece by piece and consider what each piece means. Quotes and prayers from various saints and theologians give more depth to the articles. Reflections and notebook sections conclude each chapter and provide ways for children to figure out how the articles apply in their own lives. The Creed Explained offers the Apostles' Creed as a guideline for taking them through the basic tenets of Catholicism and begins to bring them into a deeper understanding of God.
3) The Works of Mercy Explained
This illustrated guide explains the corporal and spiritual works of mercy to children ages 8-12. Using examples from scripture, saints, and people of today, including Pope Francis, each section of The Works of Mercy Explained shows children how to practice the various works of mercy. While learning the meaning behind each act of mercy, they will be inspired to develop a spirit of mercy toward family, friends, parish, and the wider community. Concrete examples of mercy in action and questions for individual reflection and group discussion allow children to see how they can help develop new paths for mercy or enrich those that already exist in their world.
4) The 10 Commandments Explained
As children begin to question more about their faith, use The 10 Commandments Explained to help them understand the basic beliefs held by the Catholic Church. This guide examines each commandment and shows children the purpose of the commandments, assisting them as they begin to go beyond the surface, and start to delve more deeply into their faith. Each chapter is based on one of the Ten Commandments and explores its deeper meanings, beyond face value. Quotes and prayers from various saints and theologians give more depth to the discussion. Reflection and a notebook section conclude the chapters and provide ways for children to figure out how they can keep the commandments in their own lives.