Chương Trình Thăng Tiến Phong Tr o TNTT · Pray 3 Hail Mary to ask Mother Mary to intercede...

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THÁNH KINH

THIẾU Cấp 2

TÊN ĐỘI: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TÊN HỌ: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chương Trình Thăng Tiến

Phong Trào TNTT

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The Annunciation

(Lk 1:26-38)

In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a

man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin's name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, "Hail, favored one!

The Lord is with you." But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then

the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb

and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God

will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will

be no end." But Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?" And the angel said to her in

reply, "The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be

born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and

this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God." Mary said, "Behold, I am the

handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.

Kiến Thức Liên Quan (Faith / Fact Finding)

If someone you don’t know suddenly comes up to you and asks you to do something that you know is impossible, what

would your reaction be?

Our Holy Mother Mary was put in the same situation: an angel appeared to her and told her that she was highly favored by

God. Mary was “greatly troubled” because she didn’t know what the greeting meant.

Not only that but the angel then told her that she would bear a child and this child would be the Son of God. Mary was

confused and had to ask because she didn’t know how it would be possible for her to have a child since she doesn’t have a

relationship with a man.

After hearing the angel’s explanation, Mary said her “yes” to God because she had faith in Him and trusted in His

providence.

Do you ever wonder what was going through Mary’s mind throughout this whole visit with the angel? Mary must have been

aware of the difficulties that she had to deal with when she said “yes” to God? Mary was engaged to Joseph. How would she

explain this phenomenon in being pregnant to Joseph and her family and everyone around her? Would anyone believe that

this is God’s doing?

Mary knows that from that moment on, her life would change forever but she doesn’t know in what way. All she needed to

know was that this was God’s will for her life. Her faith in God was so great faith that she said that she was “the handmaid of

the Lord. May it be done to [her] according to [God’s] word.

Dẫn Chứng Cụ Thể (Case Study)

Áp Dụng Trong Cuộc Sống (Life Application)

I think none of you have ever had an angel appear to you to give you a message from God, but God has spoken to you in

many other ways.

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Have you ever read or heard a verse from the Bible that struck you in some ways? Did it affirm something in your life or

made you question something or just comfort you?

God can also speak to you through your parents, your teachers or someone older who has more experience/knowledge than

you? Did you go to them for an advice or to ask about something? Did they tell you to do something that you didn’t want to

do even though you know that it is the right thing to do?

Ôn Lại Bài (Summary)

The account of the Annunciation teaches us to look up to Mary as our role model in life. We have to have faith and trust in

God and do His will. There are many ways that God can speak to us if only we stop and listen.

Lời Nguyện (Prayer)

Lạy Chúa, xin giúp con nêu gương Mẹ Maria trong cuộc sống của con. Xin cho con nghe lời của Ngài và tin tưởng nơi Ngài

trong đời sống và trong những việc làm của con.

Bài Làm (Homework)

1. Tại sao mình phải yêu mến và neo gương Mẹ Maria (Why do you to love the Virgin Mary?

2. Chúa nói chuyện với em bằng cách nào và làm thế nào để em có thể nghe Chúa một cách rò hơn(How does God speak to

you and what can you do to be able to hear Him more clearly?

3. Is it hard for you to follow God’s will in your life? Are you willing to do things that you don’t want to do because of

your love for God and others around you?

4. Pray 3 Hail Mary to ask Mother Mary to intercede for you and guide you as you go through life.

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Birth of John the Baptist

Scripture Reading

The Birth of John 1:57-66

“When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that

the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise

the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.”

But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father

what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his

mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these

matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What,

then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.”

Faith / Fact Finding

1. Named John

Traditionally, a child should name after his father name “Zechariah” when they came on the eight day to circumcise the

child. However, John the Baptist did not name after his father; his name was given by God. According to Luke, Zechariah

was speechless, because he did believe the Angle words: when Angle “Gabriel” announced that his wife “Elizabeth” would

bear you a son. Angle also said that he must name his baby “John”. After he wrote “John is his name,” then he was able to

speak.

2 The greatness of John The greatness of John, his pivotal place in the history of salvation, is seen in the great emphasis Luke gives to the

announcement of his birth and the even itself-both made prominently parallel to the same occurrences in the life of Jesus.

John attracted countless people (“all Judea”) to the banks of the Jordan, and it occurred to some people that he might be the

Messiah. But he constantly deferred to Jesus, even to sending away some of his followers to become the first disciple of

Jesus.

3. The Messenger

John spent his time in the desert, and ascetic. He began to announce the coming of the Kingdom, and to call everyone to

a fundamental reformation of life. John the Baptist was a messenger for Jesus. He came before Jesus. He prepared the way

for Jesus come. John baptize for many people in Israel with water and also for Jesus. His Baptism, he said, was for

repentance. “I am baptizing you with water, but one would come who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and Fire. John is

not worthy even to carry his sandals (Lk. 3:16). His attitude toward Jesus was: “He must increase; I must decrease” (John

3:30).

4. Liturgy of Advent (four weeks before Jesus Birth Day)

When the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year, it makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for

by sharing in the long preparation for the Savior’s first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for his second coming.

Advent season is the time for Christian people to reconciliation for Jesus to come. Most parishes also have penance at that

time. According to A New Catechism said, John is not something which was only true once, long ago in the past. It is

always true, because the repentance which he preached always remains the way into kingdom which he announced. He is not

a figure that we can forget now that Jesus, the true light, has appeared. John is always relevant because he calls for a

preparation which all men need to make. Hence every year there are four weeks in the life of the Church in which it listens

to the voice of the Baptist. These are the weeks of Advent”.

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Case Study / Life Application

What are the differences between Saint John baptized people in Jordan River and the Sacrament of Baptism by Jesus?

John the Baptist is a messenger for Jesus; who are your messenger now?

Summary

❑ Named John was given by God, he had God’s blessing since in mother womb.

❑ Birth of John the Baptist announcement and Jesus as the same time. John is a messenger for Jesus. He baptized

people in Jordan River, his baptism for repentance, Jesus baptize you with the Holy Spirit and Fire.

❑ Catholic Churches celebrate the liturgy of Advent each year. It is four weeks long to preparation for Jesus to

come. We listen to the voice of the Baptist in the bible in Advent.

Prayer

Prepare the way for Christ to come to save us, with the rising sun. His light will shine and not grow dim, destroying

death, through life in him, and change the darkness into day, proclaiming peace as God’s own way. Amen. Canticle of

Zechariah

Homework Answers

1. Who baptized for Jesus and where?

2. Why Zechariah was speechless?

3. What is/are the elements that John the Baptist used for baptize people at Jordan River?

4. What date we celebrate the Birth of John the Baptist for this year 2007? (Look at your Catholic Church Extension

calendar)

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3

The Savior is born

Scripture Reading

The Birth of Jesus Luke 2:1-20

1In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2(This was the

first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3And everyone went to his own town to register.

4So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he

belonged to the house and line of David. 5He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and

was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a

son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord

appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do

not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has

been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a

manger."

13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14"Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

15When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see

this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

16So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17When they had seen him,

they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the

shepherds said to them. 19But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds

returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.


1. Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem because it was time for enrollment. This was the time of Caesar Augustus.

They did not travel alone because the Savior was with them. The world’s Savior was inside of Mary’s womb. The

city was crowded due to the enrollment because everyone has to go back to their home town. Therefore, there was

no room for them in the inn.

Today, the hearts of many are like that little inn of Bethlehem; crowded with sin; crowed with worldly cares,

pleasures, prizes and pursuits; and crowed with human wisdom; so much so that they have no room for the Savior in

their lives. Jesus said: "Behold I stand at the door and knock, if any may hear my voice and open the door, I will

come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me" (Revelation 3:20).

(Expository Files: Chris Reeves)

2. The angel appeared to the shepherds and told them not to be afraid. There was no reason to be afraid, in fact, there

are more reasons to be rejoicing. A Savior is born to us.

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The angel announced "good tidings of great joy." It is a joyous occasion when a Savior comes into the world and we

obey him. Jesus said: "Even so, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that

repenteth" (Luke 15:10). After the Eunuch believed the good news about Jesus and was baptized, "he went on his

way rejoicing" (Acts 8:39). There is no joy like the joy of salvation from sin.


What the angel said was not just for the shepherds, but "to all the people." Jesus is indeed the "Savior of the world"

(John 4:42; 1 John 4:14). No race, color, class or genders of people are exempt from salvation.


The angel said that Jesus was "a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Jesus is "Savior" because he saves mankind from

sin (Matthew 1:21). Jesus is "Christ" ("Christ" means anointed) because God anointed him to heal all mankind from

spiritual illness (Luke 4:18-19). Jesus is "Lord" because he is ruler of all mankind (Acts 10:36).


Soon this angelic messenger was joined by a multitude of other angels who offered praise to God, saying: "Glory to

God in the highest, And on earth peace among men in whom he is well pleased." God is to be praised for giving us

such a wonderful Savior.


3. After the angels departed, the shepherds immediately went to Bethlehem to see the Savior

"and they came with haste." When someone is sincere and serious about his own salvation he will make immediate

plans to find the Savior. He will search until he finds Jesus. Jesus said: "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst

after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:6). On another occasion when he was asked by his disciples,

"Lord, are they few that are saved," Jesus said: "Strive to enter in by the narrow door: for many, I say unto you, shall

seek to enter in, and shall not be able" (Luke 13:24). Only the urgent, only those who strive, will be saved.


4. The shepherds did not stop when the see the Savior. They went enthusiastically to spread the joy of the new Savior.

They proclaimed to all that could hear.

5. “glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen…” is what the shepherds did.

Where Do You Stand?

1. Can you say that you “glorifying and praising God” for all the things that he have given you?

2. When you have a good thing, do you want to share it with others?

3. Have you ever put effort into finding God?

4. Do you want the peace of Jesus Christ in your life?

5. Are you willing to let Jesus save, heal and more over, rule your life?

6. Are you willing to open the door of your heart to make room for the Savior in your life?

Summary

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The savior was sent to us by the Lord and was born of the Virgin Mary. The Shepherds were the first to learn of this news

by the Angel’s of the Lord. They immediately went to see Baby Jesus, and joyfully spread of this Joy to everyone they see.

Prayer

Let the just rejoice, for their Justifict is born.

Let the sick and infirm rejoice, for their Savior is born.

Let the captives rejoice, for their Redeemer is born.

Let slaves rejoice, for their Master is born.

Let free people rejoice, for their Liberator is born.

Let all Christians rejoice, for Jesus Christ is born.

Saint Augustine of Hippo

Homework

Write a short essay on why we as people need salvation?

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4 Wise Men Visit Jesus

Scripture Reading

1. Wise Men Visit Jesus – Mt 2: 1-12

1 When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in

Jerusalem, 2 saying, "Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do

him homage." 3 When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4

Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be

born. 5 They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: 6 'And you,

Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler,

who is to shepherd my people Israel.'" 7 Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the

time of the star's appearance. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search diligently for the child.

When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage." 9 After their audience with

the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and

stopped over the place where the child was. 10 They were overjoyed at seeing the star, 11 and on entering the

house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they

opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a

dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.

Faith / Fact Finding 34 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the

world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you

welcomed me, 36 naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.' (Mt 25:35-35)

Jesus appears to the wise men in the poor manger where animals stay through the night. Jesus is king of Heaven

and Earth and comes to us in the most humble form. Wise men, that come and do Him homage, represent the rich,

knowledgable and powerful people at the time. They offer Him gifts of gold, frankicense, and myrrh, which are the

most valuable things.

In one way or the others, we are rich, knowledgable and powerful in some shapes and forms. It doesn’t matter where you

live, who you are and what you do. There are almost people who are poorer, less knowledgeable, and less powerful than you

are.

On the other hand, Jesus appears to us in the form of Eucharist, the body and blood of Christ. How do you welcome Him?

Like the Wise-men, who have to travel miles and miles to come and do Him homage. Are you doing the same thing today to

do Him homage?


Wise-men visit also means that Jesus first appears to all people. Where does Jesus appear to us today? A few cases that we

would like to present for discussion:

• Where does Jesus appear in today society? In particular, in political events, social events, in family gatherings, on

the streets, in the church, etc…

• Comparisons of Jesus appeared to the wise men back then and Jesus appears to us today? Are there any differences?

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Where Do You Stand?

1. How do you know Jesus appears to you?

2. When was the last time that Jesus appears to you? What have you done? Did you welcome him or did you reject and

ignore Jesus?

3. What characteristics do you think that you need to help you easily recognize Jesus in today society?

Summary

❑ Jesus appears to us in the Eucharist.

❑ Everyone is created in the image of God. So, everyone has the image of Christ in him/her.

❑ Sharing to others is the key to Heaven.

❑ Charity is a great form of sharing.

❑ Not only sharing the materials like money, clothes, food and drinks, but also sharing spirituality is equally important.

Prayer

“Make me a channel of your peace. Where there is hatred let me bring your love;

Where there is injury your pardon, Lord;

And where there's doubt true faith in you.

Refrain:

Oh, Master grant that I may never seek

So much to be consoled as to console;

To be understood as to understand;

To be loved as to love with all my soul.

Make me a channel of your peace.

Where there's despair in life let me bring hope;

Where there is darkness, only light;

And where there's sadness, ever joy.

Refrain

Make me a channel of your peace.

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

In giving to all men that we receive;

And in dying that we're born to eternal life..” St. Francis of Assisi

Homework

1. List one thing that you share recently. How do you feel about sharing with others?

2. What can you share at this moment? Identify a list of what you have and what you can share with others.

3. Conduct an act of sharing such as Christmas Carol, Funding Raising like carwash, dinner, selling cakes, etc to help the

poor?

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5 Jesus Presented in the Temple

Scripture Reading

(Lk 2:22-38) 22 When the time come for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to

present Him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy

to the Lord"), 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is stated in the Law of the Lord, "A pair of turtledoves or

two young pigeons."


The presentation of Jesus in the temple shows him to be the firstborn Son who

belongs to the Lord. With Simeon and Anna, all Israel awaits its encounter with

the Savior-the name given to this event in the Byzantine tradition. Jesus is

recognized as the long-expected Messiah, the "light to the nations" and the "glory

of Israel", but also "a sign that is spoken against". The sword of sorrow predicted

for Mary announces Christ's perfect and unique oblation on the cross that will

impart the salvation God had "prepared in the presence of all peoples".

Vocabulary

Sacrifice - A ritual offering made to God by a priest on behalf of the people, as a

sign of adoration, gratitude, supplication, and communion

Salvation - The forgiveness of sins and restoration of friendship with God, which

can be done by God alone.

- Joseph & Mary do their best to keep the Law of Moses

- Two prophets - Simeon and Anna - served God in various ways at the Temple


- We are consecrated to God through the Sacrament of Baptism.

- Every year, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on 2nd February.

Where Do You Stand?

1. What inspiration can we gain from the fact that Joseph and Mary faithfully fulfilled

their obligations under the Old Testament law, despite having been shown special,

miraculous attention by God?

2. What do we know about Simeon (v. 25)?

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3. Why did Luke say the Holy Spirit was upon Simeon, and what message did the

Spirit gives him (v. 26)?

4. What did the meeting of Simeon, Joseph, and Mary reveal about God's working in

those days (vs. 27,28)?

5. How did Simeon begin his expression of praise upon seeing Jesus, and why did he

feel that way (vs. 29,32)?

6. Simeon received a special personal blessing, but focused even more on the

blessing Jesus would be to others (verses 29-32). How can we each develop that

kind of missionary mind-set?

7. What prophecy did Simeon utter concerning Jesus (vs. 33,34)?

8. What did Simeon say to Mary about what she would go through (v. 35)?

9. What do we know about Anna's personal and spiritual life (vs. 36,37)?

10. It is obvious that both Simeon and Anna enjoyed an extraordinary relationship

with God. What can we learn from that to strengthen our own walk with the Lord?

- Do I keep a record of the day I was consecrated to God through the Sacrament of Baptism ?

- Do I respect and listen to the good advice of those who work for the Church ?

Summary

The Holy Family of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus kept the Law of Moses. They met prophets Simeon

and Anna who joined them to praise God.

Prayer

Dear God, may we be people of hope. May we live as if we know our future is secure. May our lives sing of our hope to a

world living desperately without hope. We pray in the name of the One who brings hope to all, Jesus the Christ, amen.

Lord, when the Holy Family came up to the Temple, they gave us a good example. Please help my

family to become good Christians by worshipping you every day in our lives. Amen. THOUGHT TO REMEMBER

Live without fear of the future because of the hope Jesus brings.

Homework

Draw, or cut & paste a picture of the Holy Family.

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5” The presentation in the temple

Scripture Reading

22 When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, they took him up to Jerusalem to

present him to the Lord, 23 just as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated

to the Lord," 24 and to offer the sacrifice of "a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons," in accordance with the dictate in

the law of the Lord. 25

Faith / Fact Finding Malachi 3:1-4

Thus says the Lord, See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will

suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight-- indeed, he is coming, says the LORD of

hosts. But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?

For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap; he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the

descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the LORD in righteousness. Then the

offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the LORD as in the days of old and as in former years.

Hebrews 2:14-18

Since God's children share flesh and blood, Jesus himself likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might

destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by the

fear of death. For it is clear that he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he had to become

like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to

make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to

help those who are being tested.

Psalm 84 or 84:1-6 1 How dear to me is your dwelling, O LORD of hosts!

My soul has a desire and longing for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh rejoice in the living God. 2 The sparrow has found her a house and the swallow a nest where she may lay her young; by the side of your altars, O

LORD of hosts, my King and my God. 3 Happy are they who dwell in your house!

they will always be praising you. 4 Happy are the people whose strength is in you!

whose hearts are set on the pilgrims' way. 5 Those who go through the desolate valley will find it a place of springs, for the early rains have covered it with pools of

water. 6 They will climb from height to height,

and the God of gods will reveal himself in Zion. 7 LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer; hearken, O God of Jacob. 8 Behold our defender, O God; and look upon the face of your Anointed. 9 For one day in your courts is better than a thousand in my own room, and to stand at the threshold of the house of my God

than to dwell in the tents of the wicked. 10 For the LORD God is both sun and shield; he will give grace and glory; 11 No good thing will the LORD withhold from those who walk with integrity. 12 O LORD of hosts, happy are they who put their trust in you!

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Imagine yourself with a group of friends driving on the highway with the speed limit of 65 and you are driving 80.

❑ Describe what would happened if you don’t follow the traffic law and

❑ What are the pros and cons in this situation?

Simeon has waited for a long time to see the Messiah. After all the longings and the waitings, the Messiah has come to

him. His prayer is answered and the day has come for him to see the Messiah. The joy and the happiness finally come to

him. He said “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, 30 for my eyes have seen your

salvation, 31 which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people

Israel." From that Simeon said seeing Jesus as the salvation is all he ever wants in his entire life. That is his ultimate goal.

Once God grants his wish, he doesn’t want anything in life anymore.

❑ Is your goal in life to see Jesus, the salvation of mankind? Or some others different?

❑ Are you happy to see Jesus?

Where Do You Stand?

1. How are you aware of the God’s law?

2. Is society law always right that we have to obey? 3. How do we know that the society law is wrong?

Summary

❑ God law is always right and society law may or may not be right.

❑ Based on the Holy Bible, we shall know all God’s laws.

❑ Society law may not be right because they are made by human and human are faulty.

Prayer

“Dear God, please let me understand Your laws and dwell them in my heart and keep me in Your care always.”

Homework

1. Identify the society laws that are not accepted by the Catholics?

2. What is the ultimate law of God?

3. What are the two images representing the Holy Spirit in Acts of the Apostles?

4. Describe what it is like to wait for something that you really want to happen or to see in your life?

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6

The Boy Jesus at the Temple

Scripture Reading

Lk 2:41-52 41 Now every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. 42 When he was twelve years old, they went

up as usual for the festival. 43 When the festival was ended and they started return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem,

but his parents did not know it. 44 Assuming that he was in the groups of travelers, they went a day’s journey. Then they

started to look for him among their relatives and friends. 45 When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search

for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them

questions. 47 And all who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 When his parents saw him, they

were astonished. His mother said to him, "Child, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been searching for

you in great anxiety." 49 He said to them, “Why were you searching for me? Did you not know I must be in my Father's

house?" 50 But they did not understand what he said to them. 51Then he went down to Nazareth, and was obedient to them.

His mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and divine and human

favor.


During the greater part of his life Jesus shared the condition of the vast majority of human beings: a daily life spent without

evident greatness, a life of manual labor. His religious life was that of a Jew obedient to the law of God, a life in the

community. From this whole period it is revealed to us that Jesus was "obedient" to his parents and that he "increased in

wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and man."

Jesus' obedience to his mother and legal father fulfils the fourth commandment perfectly and was the temporal image of his

filial obedience to his Father in heaven. The everyday obedience of Jesus to Joseph and Mary both announced and

anticipated the obedience of Holy Thursday: "Not my will. . ." The obedience of Christ in the daily routine of his hidden life

was already inaugurating his work of restoring what the disobedience of Adam had destroyed.

Vocabulary

Obedience – to hear or listen, the willingness and commitment to submit to the will of God, as well as to Church teachings a

practices that reflect the will of God.

Wisdom- A spiritual gift which enables one to know the purpose and plan of God; one of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Wisdom is also the name of one of the books of the Old Testament.

Learning Activity - Something you want to ask Part I /Questions:

1. Why did Jesus “linger” behind?

2. Why did his parents not know about his absence till much later?

3. What was Jesus doing in the temple? Why?

4. How did the teachers react to His questions? Why?

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5. What was His response to Mary when she rebuked him?

6. Why did his parents not understand His statement?

7. What did Jesus demonstrate when He followed his parents to Nazareth and “was subject to them”?

8. What does it mean to grow in WISDOM, STATURE and to find FAVOR with God and man?

Part II/ Fill in the blanks

Read Luke 2:41-52 and fill in the blanks below. A verse is given after each question.

1. Jesus was ______ years old when he went to the temple. [42]

2. Jesus was ______ among the teachers _________ to them [ the teachers] _____________ them [ the teachers] questions

[46]

3. Everyone who heard him was ____________ at his understanding and his ____________ [47]

4. In verse 49b, Jesus said, " ....Didn't you know I had to be in my _________ ________?.

[God the father]. He was doing God's business in the temple even as a boy.

5. "Then he went down with them and was __________ to them. [ 51b]

6. In what three ways did Jesus grow?

Unscramble the words to find the answers.

verse 52:

domwis_____________

atstreu____________ [ how old and tall he was]

vofar______________

7. Do you think that God can use kids to do his work?

Or, Do you think you have to wait until you grow up to serve God?

Yes!!!! God can use kids!!! No you don't have to wait until you grow up for

God to use you. The answer is YES! God can use kids just as he used Jesus

when he was only 12 years old.

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7 The Baptism of Jesus

Scripture Reading

Mt 3:13-17 13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. 14

John would have prevented Him, saying, "I have need to be baptized by You, and

do You come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now; for it is

proper for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus

had been baptized, just as he came up from the water; suddenly the heavens were

opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am

well-pleased."


Vocabulary

Baptism – The first of the seven sacraments, by which one becomes a member of

the church and a new creature of Christ; the first of three sacraments of

Initiation, the others being Confirmation and Eucharist.

Repentance – An attitude of sorrow for a sin committed and resolution not to sin

again.

Sin – Any deliberate offense, in thought, word, or deed, against the will of God.

John the Baptist: John is called 'the Baptist' because he did baptism for those who came to him with repentance. His parents

are Zacariah and Elizabeth. Mary is his 'Auntie', and Jesus is his cousin.

The Jordan River: It is the longest river in the Palestine, starting from the north with the Sea of Galilee and flowing down

to the south into the Dead Sea. There are many stories in the Bible about it.

The Holy Trinity: There is only one God, but with three persons: God the Father spoke from heaven; God the Son (Jesus)

was baptized; and God the Holy Spirit descended as a dove.

John the Baptist was the last great prophet before Jesus. Baptism is a rite used by John symbolized the moral conversion

through repentance, confession of sins, and change of heart, a requirement for receiving God’s salvation. Although Jesus

was without sin, his willingness to be baptized is a sign of how fully he embraced his humanity.

Although many Catholics are baptized as infants, some young people and adults, called catechumens, are baptized at the

Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday each year. During the baptism ritual, the baptized person is marked with a chrism, a special

oil.

Baptism’s symbol and words are beautiful in their simplicity. The essential symbol is the blessed water that is poured over a

person or the person is immersed in, while the minister pronounces, “ I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit.” These actions and words alone make for a valid Baptism.


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By coming to John for Baptism, Jesus taught us a lesson about his obedience. He obeyed the will of God the Father to

become a person like us, but he had no sins, he did not need baptism. However, he wanted 'to fulfill all righteousness'.

Through the Sacrament of Baptism in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we become God's

children. We need to live in such a good way that people may know that we are ' the beloved children of God'.

Where Do You Stand?

It is not easy for anyone to be humble like Jesus. he is God, but he accepted baptism by John. We need to follow Jesus'

example by being humble. Nobody likes a proud person !

There are certain laws and regulations for us to keep. We need to fulfill the righteousness like Jesus by observing the laws

given by God, the Church, and our country. Nobody wants to be a law-breaker !

Summary

Jesus started his public life by being baptized. We also start our Christian life through the Sacrament of Baptism.

Learning Activity / Something you want to ask 1.) Why was John baptizing people?

2.) What happened right after Jesus was baptized?

3.) Why do we need to be baptized?

4.) What is water representing in baptism?

5.) What is Salvation? Where can I find it?

Memorize Verse ”..when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water; suddenly the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit

of God descending as a dove and alighting on him. “

Prayer

Dear God, please guide me to make the right choices in my life. Please give me the courage to fight temptation and stay away

from peer pressure. I know you love me and I trust in you whole heartedly. Amen.

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2.2.1 Chúa Chữa Hai Người Mù – Jesus Heals Two Blinds

Scripture Reading

(Mt 9:27-31)27 And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud,

"Have mercy on us, Son of David." 28 When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to

them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" They said to him, "Yes, Lord." 29 Then he touched their eyes,

saying, "According to your faith be it done to you." 30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly charged

them, "See that no one knows it." 31 But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.


• When two blind men approached Jesus, he questioned their earnestness in order to test and strengthen them

in faith and trust in his power. Their faith grew as they responded to his word with confident hope. He

restored their sight -- both physically and spiritually to the reality of his kingdom. The Lord Jesus wants us

to live in the confident expectation that he will fulfill his promises to us and bring us into the fullness of his

kingdom -- a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).

http://www.dailyscripture.net/

• The word mercy literally means "sorrowful at heart".

• Faith--Matthew 17:17-20, Luke 17:6

• Faith is a gift freely given by God to help us know God personally, to understand his truth, and to live in the

power of his love.

_ Son of David: A title applied to Jesus to show not only his royalty but also his power.


Does God really exist?

How do you know?

- We could be 'blind' in so many different ways: e.g not seeing the good in others, etc.

- Faith can heal us.

- We should not do good work to seek fame.

Where Do You Stand? Group discussion:

1. How strong does my faith have to be?

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2. Is faith enough? Why? Why Not?

3. How can I tell others about my faith?

- Do I respect and help people, especially those who need special care like the elderly or the disabled ? - What should I do to nourish my faith in God ?

Summary

Quickly write down what you have learned today. How can you apply what you have learned?

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Jesus healed a lot of people, but what he wanted to teach them was to have in Faith in God.

Prayer

Lord, help me to draw near to you with confidence and trust in your saving power and mercy. Free me from

doubt and unbelief that I may approach you confidently and pray boldly with expectant faith. Let your kingdom

come and may your will be done in me.

Homework

Find three ways to show your faith this week. For example, making the sign of the cross before you eat.

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2.2.2 Jesus and Peter Pay the Temple Tax

Scripture Reading Mt 17:24 – 27

When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel tax went up to Peter and said, "Does

not your teacher pay the tax?" He said, "Yes." And when he came home, Jesus spoke to him first,

saying, "What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their

sons or from others?" And when he said, "From others," Jesus said to him, "Then the sons are free.

However, not to give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook, and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open

its mouth you will find a shekel; take that and give it to them for me and for yourself."


* What can you tell me about this passage?


Mark is the manager at Sears. His job is to oversees a group of employees and make sure that things are running smoothly.

His wife Amanda is a teacher at the local high school. Her job is to educate the students and prepare them to become

productive citizens. Steven is a seventh grade at the local junior high school.

Where Do You Stand? 1. What is Steven’s job?

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2. What responsibilities do you believe you personally have for: 1) yourself, 2) your family, 3) your community, and 4) the world?

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3. What could you say to yourself when you are tempted to act irresponsibly?

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Summary

* Everyone has responsibilities. If we neglect our responsibilities, we affect not only ourselves, but also others around us.

Prayer

A Student’s Prayer

Creator of all things, true source of Light and Wisdom, lofty source of all Being, graciously let a ray of Your Brilliance

penetrate into the darkness of my understanding and take from me the double darkness in which I have been born, sin and

ignorance. Give me a sharp sense understanding, a retentive memory, and the ability to grasp things correctly and

fundamentally. Grant me the talent of being exact in my explanations, and the ability to express myself with thoroughness

and charm. Point out the beginning, direct the progress, and help in the completion. Through Christ our Lord.

- St. Thomas Aquinas

Homewor Work with your group—check out this website http://www.goodcharacter.com/Opportunities.html and then prepare a 2-5 minutes presentation about one of these organizations.

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2.2.3 May I Listen to you, God?

Lời Chúa (Words of God) Mk 7:31 – 37

Jesus heals a deaf and dumb man

Again he left the district of Tyre and went by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, into the district of the Decapolis. And

people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him off by

himself away from the crowd. He put his finger into the man's ears and, spitting, touched his tongue; then he looked up to

heaven and groaned, and said to him, "Ephphatha!" (that is, "Be opened!") And (immediately) the man's ears were opened,

his speech impediment was removed, and he spoke plainly. He ordered them not to tell anyone. But the more he ordered

them not to, the more they proclaimed it. They were exceedingly astonished and they said, "He has done all things well. He

makes the deaf hear and (the) mute speak."


Observation:

In big gathering events, you usually see a person sitting on stage looking down to audience and doing sign language. What is

the purpose of that? Why do we need that person? There are people who are not fortunate enough like us to hear sound and

voice through ears. With the help of the sign language, deaf people are able to understand the message from the presenter.

Ephphata – Be Opened:

Jesus was trying to avoid the big crowd because He does not want to be bothered. However, there was a deaf-mute man

begging him to help because had strong faith in Jesus. Jesus said “Ephphatha” which means “Be opened” to the deaf-mute

person and made him hear and speak. The Miracle is that the Salvation of God now becomes available to the all people.

The words "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak" are good news that proclaim the coming of the Kingdom of

God and the healing of the inability to communicate and of division. This message is rediscovered in all Jesus' preaching and

work. Wherever he went, whether travelling through villages, cities or the countryside, the people "laid the sick in the market

places, and besought him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment; and as many as touched it were made well"

(Mk 6: 56). The healing of the deaf-mute, on which we have meditated in these days occurred while Jesus, having left the

region of Tyre, was making his way to the Sea of Galilee through the so-called "Decapolis", a multi-ethnic and multi-

religious district (cf. Mk 7: 31), an emblematic situation even in our day. (Homily of His Holiness Benedict XVI)

Some Facts:

A Brief Summary of Estimates for the Size of the Deaf Population in the USA Based on Available Federal Data and

Published Research:

About 2 to 4 of every 1,000 people in the United States are "functionally deaf," though more than half became deaf relatively

late in life; fewer than 1 out of every 1,000 people in the United States became deaf before 18 years of age. However, if

people with a severe hearing impairment are included with those who are deaf, then the number is 4 to 10 times higher. That

is, anywhere from 9 to 22 out of every 1,000 people have a severe hearing impairment or are deaf. Again, at least half of

these people reported their hearing loss after 64 years of age. Finally, if everyone who has any kind of "trouble" with their

hearing is included then anywhere from 37 to 140 out of every 1,000 people in the United States have some kind of hearing

loss, with a large share being at least 65 years old (Deaf Population.)


Deaf ministry brings signs of faith, hope by Lisa Schulte

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Jerry and Kathy Bierman say they are fulfilled in the Catholic Church. Jerry, raised Catholic, and Kathy, who became

Catholic 20 years ago, take their four children to Sunday Mass and serve as Eucharistic ministers at St. Anthony Parish in

Columbus. Jerry also is a member of the Knights of Columbus.

But being active in their faith has been challenging because they are deaf.

"We've had a hard time making friends at the parish because we can't speak. People will say hello, but won't have

conversations," Kathy told The Catholic Voice through her daughter, Kelly, who interpreted for the interview. "That's why

we are Eucharistic ministers. It helps people know who we are."

There is no interpreter for Masses at their parish, so the Biermans follow along in the missellettes. And as far as the homilies

go, Kathy said they don't always know what the priests are saying. If they could get a printed copy of the homilies, the couple

said it would be helpful.

"People say that Father Chris (Grimmond) gives good homilies," Kathy, 40, said. "It'd be nice to know what he's saying."

Despite the struggles, the Biermans said they love the Catholic Church, and they hope to get better acquainted with their

fellow parishioners because they feel welcomed at St. Anthony.


As a Catholic, what do we do after listenning the Word of God weekly?

Anyone who listens to the Word of God can and must speak and transmit it to others, to those who have never heard it, or

who have forgotten it and buried under the thorny troubles and deceptions of the world (cf. Mt 13: 22).

Are we afraid of being Christ’s witness? Why is that?

We must ask ourselves: have not we Christians become perhaps too silent? Do we not perhaps lack the courage to speak out

and witness as did those who witnessed the healing of the deaf-mute in the Decapolis? Our world needs this witness; above

all, it is waiting for the common testimony of Christians. Therefore listening to the God who speaks also implies a reciprocal

listening, the dialogue between the Churches and the Ecclesial Communities. Honest and loyal dialogue is the typical and

indispensable instrument in the quest for unity.

Ôn Lại Bài (Summary)

Jesus healed the deaf-mute person. Jesus made that man hear and speak because that man had faith in Him. For us, we have

ears and eyes. We hear and see all creatures God made. Are we really listening to God’s talking through priests, parents,

friends, etc.?


Lord Jesus! Deliver me from the uncircumcised ear! Give me the opened ear of the learner, wakened morning by morning to

hear the Father's voice. Just as You speak only what You hear from the Father, may my speaking be the echo of Your

speaking to me. "When Moses went into the tabernacle to speak with Him, he heard the voice of One speaking unto him from

off the mercy seat." Lord, may it be so with me, too. Amen! (The Word and Prayer)

References

Homily of His Holiness Benedict XVI, http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/homilies/2007/documents/hf_ben-

xvi_hom_20070125_conversion-st-paul_en.html

Deaf Population, http://gri.gallaudet.edu/Demographics/deaf-US.php

The Word and Prayer, http://www.worldinvisible.com/library/murray/5bm.10353/5bm.10353.22.htm

Lisa Schulte, “The Catholic Voice”, http://www.archomaha.com/disablcom/MAR28Feature5.htm

http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/homilies/2007/documents/hf_ben-xvi_hom_20070125_conversion-st-paul_en.htmlhttp://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/homilies/2007/documents/hf_ben-xvi_hom_20070125_conversion-st-paul_en.htmlhttp://gri.gallaudet.edu/Demographics/deaf-US.phphttp://www.worldinvisible.com/library/murray/5bm.10353/5bm.10353.22.htmhttp://www.archomaha.com/disablcom/MAR28Feature5.htm

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2.2.4 Xin Được Sạch – Make Me Clean

Lời Chúa (Words of God)

Luke 5:12 –14

Jesus heals a man with leprosy

Now there was a man full of leprosy in one of the towns where he was; and when he saw Jesus, he fell prostrate, pleaded

with him, and said, "Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean." Jesus stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, "I do

will it. Be made clean." And the leprosy left him immediately. Then he ordered him not to tell anyone, but "Go, show

yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them."


Learn about leprosy:

Leprosy is caused by bacteria or germs called Mycobacterium leprae. It is an infection that affects the skin and the nerves of

the hands and feet and can also cause problems in the eyes and nose. The medical name for leprosy is Hansen's disease. Dr.

Armauer Hansen of Norway was the first to see the leprosy germ under a microscope. This was 1873, and Hansen's

discovery was revolutionary. The evidence was clear: a germ (Mycobacterium leprae) causes leprosy. It was not hereditary, a

curse, or from sin. In most cases, it is spread through long-term contact with a person who has the disease but has not been

treated. Most people will never develop the disease even if they are exposed to the bacteria. Of the world's population, 95%

have a natural immunity to leprosy. In South Louisiana and Texas, some armadillos carry this bacteria. We do not know for

certain if humans can get the bacteria from armadillos. Leprosy is not an inherited disease. Also, it is rare for more than one

person in the same family to have this disease. (American Leprosy Mission)

In Jesus' time lepers were isolated from the community in a kind of quarantine but without any care or support from the

community. They were cut off from normal social systems of support. Once a person got leprosy illness, he would not

deserve the same treatment as others. No one would want to have relationship with lepers, and lepers were declared legally

dead.

In the Luke’s Gospel (5:12-14), you can see the leper’s faith made him eager to be healed. He eagerly desired to be cleaned

from his deadly illness with his heart and soul. Because of his strong faith in Jesus, he was healed. He became a clean

person and he was able to connect with the society which did not accept him before. How joyful he was! And he walked

away.

Today we are not leprosy infected physically, but we are leprosy infected in our souls, words, actions, and sins. We ask God

to heal us through reconciliation services with a priest who forgives us our sins using God’s power that was given to Catholic

priests. Sadness that many of us do not realize we are sinful and refuse to reconcile with God. This makes us distance away

from God. Let’s look at some actions that make us lepers in front of God.

- Being lazy

- Stealing

- Skipping Church on Sunday

- Not following 10 commandments

- Committing wrongful acts with friends

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Amanda Petersen’s reflection on her visit to a leper colony in India.

I was in a leper colony.

Sitting in a big wood box. Kind of like a bird house.

Next to a man with no hands, no tongue, no toes.

Sitting in his own excrement.

His face looks like it’s melting off.

A few of us sit next to him. We put our hands on his shoulder, his knee. We sing to him and pray over him.

He doesn’t know English. Tears come.

He continuously looks up to the roof.

His face is one of desperation.

More tears.

His head drops into what would be his hands.

Tears.

More looking up to the roof.

He doesn’t know what we are saying.

The look that I saw in that man’s eyes was a reflection of my heart. It gave face to how my inner being cried out, and still

cries out, to Christ.

I can’t shake this memory because I don’t want to.

I have so many questions about that man’s heart – his heart as in the heart that we name as the core of us that is in

relationship with God.

I left there with a seed growing with the understanding that relationship and worship and salvation and spirituality and

religion and truth and beauty oftentimes look a whole lot different than I would ever expect them to.

Who was he looking to when his eyes went to the roof? What came over him that brought those tears? Did that man not

know Christ? Did he not have a relationship with him that blows our American perspective of relationship out of the box?


A Response to the HIV/AIDS Crisis by Kenneth R. Overberg

Today many people suffering from AIDS experience judgment, stigmatization and rejection, as did the lepers of biblical

times. In ways subtle and not so subtle, persons with HIV/AIDS are forced "outside the camp," whether it be with regard to

housing, employment, insurance, school or even the practice of their religious beliefs.

Other societal powers make the spread of HIV worse. Throughout the world, economic systems and decisions trap people in

poverty. Racism fosters oppression. Violence and widespread denial of any real freedom force women into tragic situations.

These and other social conditions provide the perfect conditions for the spread of HIV.

How are we to respond? Clearly, our Scriptures challenge us to live as faithful disciples of Jesus. Our biblical reflections

have led us to three specific points concerning HIV/AIDS.

1. We resist the temptation to judge and condemn people. HIV/AIDS is not a punishment sent by God. This change of

attitude is where we start. This respect does not mean, of course, denying responsibility. Prevention is still the key to

dealing with HIV/AIDS, so educational programs must encourage people to take responsibility for their actions.

2. We respond with care and compassion to those infected and affected by HIV, crossing the boundaries of fear and

prejudice. With the attitude of Jesus, we reach out to these sisters and brothers. This means action, perhaps starting a

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parish support group or helping a local agency that assists those living with AIDS—or at least supporting those who

do this.

3. We recognize the need for societal change as well as behavioral change. Recent social teachings of the Church help

us translate the vision of the prophets and Jesus into just working and living conditions. This, too, means action—

systemic action. The consistent ethic of life guides us in accepting personal responsibility to challenge and change

political platforms, economic strategies and governmental decisions that foster a culture of death. We recognize

global issues embodied in local ones. We work, for example, to provide group housing for those with AIDS who

need such assistance—and not just in somebody else's backyard. Poverty, unemployment, lack of education and the

oppression of women are other issues that demand urgent concern and action in our local communities as well as

around the world.

Kenneth R. Overberg, S.J., is professor of theology at Xavier University in Cincinnati. Among his books and articles Is the

award-winning 'Choosing Life: The Bible and Euthanasia,' Scripture from Scratch, October 1994.


Jesus healed a leper and freed him from leprosy because he had strong faith in Him.

What do we need to do so that we will not become a leper in front of God?


Lord Jesus, you healed a leper and made him clean out of sin because he had faith in you. In our life, we are committed sin

with intention or unintentional, and make you sad. Please give us strength so that we can say no to bad habits and actions.

But if we already commit sins, please make us strong to reconcile with You through priests or people whom we made

troubles to. Amen!

References

American Leprosy Mission, http://www.leprosy.org/LEPinfo.html

The New American Bible, http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible/

Kenneth R. Overberg, http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/SFS/an1098.asp

Touching Jesus the leper, 2/19/2007 by Seth Barnes, http://www.sethbarnes.com/index.asp?filename=touching-jesus-the-leper

http://www.leprosy.org/LEPinfo.htmlhttp://www.usccb.org/nab/bible/http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/SFS/an1098.asphttp://www.sethbarnes.com/index.asp?filename=touching-jesus-the-leperhttp://www.sethbarnes.com/index.asp?filename=touching-jesus-the-leper

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2.2.5 Xin Được Biết Tạ Ơn – Give Thanks to God


Luke 17:11 – 19

Jesus heals ten men who had leprosy

As he continued his journey to Jerusalem, he traveled through Samaria and Galilee. As he was entering a village, ten lepers

met (him). They stood at a distance from him and raised their voice, saying, "Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!" And when he

saw them, he said, "Go show yourselves to the priests." As they were going they were cleansed. And one of them, realizing

he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a

Samaritan. Jesus said in reply, "Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner

returned to give thanks to God?" Then he said to him, "Stand up and go; your faith has saved you."


After Jesus healed ten lepers, made them clean and free from leprosy, only one of them came back to thank Him. That

person is a Samarian. Jesus was not happy about the other nine people not because He wants their appreciations, but He

wants to confirm a strong faith from a Samarian. Also, teach us to always glorify God for all blessings we received.

About Thanksgiving:

In the United States, we often say “Thank you” for just anything we appreciate from another person in daily life. Just the

“Thanksgiving” alone, it means we pause and realize many graces God has given us. We also give thanks to God through

out the month of November, especially on Thanksgiving Day.


Thanksgiving Thoughts

By Judith Dunlap

We all know the story of the first Thanksgiving. In 1621 grateful pilgrims invited their Indian friends to a feast celebrating

their first bountiful harvest after a catastrophic winter. What most interests me are the accounts of the holiday after that

first celebration and the lessons they offer.

At the Thanksgiving of 1623, Native Americans were again the honored guests. The pilgrims recognized that they owed

their continued existence to the generosity of their neighbors. It's unlikely those same neighbors were invited to the feast in

1676, since one of the things the colonists gave thanks for was their recent victory over the "heathen natives." For years the

British governors were welcomed table fellows. But in 1777, the first year all 13 colonies celebrated the holiday, thanks

were given for the defeat of the British at Saratoga. Interesting, isn't it, how a guest list can change over the course of

history?

You would think we'd have learned by now that last year's enemies often become this year's allies. And that different

ideologies and the desire for land and resources can make worthy neighbors into hostile opponents. Maybe this

Thanksgiving we can try to apply the lessons learned from American history to the world situation—and not make the same

mistakes.

When you thank God for the gifts of freedom and the great bounty of our land, remind your youngsters of the gospel

definition of freedom—freedom from fear, violence and want. Remember in your table prayers those who live without

these freedoms, and remember to think globally. Perhaps we can make the lives of our great-grandchildren safer by thinking

beyond national borders and individual pockets. Their future Thanksgiving feasts may depend on it. (Everyday Catholic)

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When you consider God's blessings, what comes to mind? Most of us in modern society live far beyond the need to give

daily attention to the necessities of life—food, shelter, clothing. We leave our house, condo or apartment, hop in the car,

head for the store, and buy what we need. How often have you stopped in the midst of what may seem mundane and say,

"what a great country!" Or, even more appropriate, "what a great God, who provides all this!"

Today most of us are overwhelmed with much more than fruit and nuts and vegetables and other results of the harvest. We

are filled to the brim with appliances, clothing, computers, cell phones, DVDs, books, and so much more. But it seems that

the more things people acquire, the less they think of God, much less thank him for all the "stuff" that's available to us. (Live

for God).


We give thanks to God for all blessings we received: our life, our air to breath, etc.


Thank you God for the garden you gave me when all I asked for was a flower.

Thank you God for the ocean, when all I asked for was some rain.

Thank you God for the beauty you have created, when all I asked for was to see.

Thank you God for the multitude of friends in my life, when all I asked for was love.

Thank you God for all that I have received from you and most of all, that I know I am never alone, for You are always here

beside me.

Thank you God for giving your son to forgive us of our sins.

I love you God and am not afraid to share this with the world and spread your word. Amen

Bài Làm (Homework)

Read again Luke 17:11 – 19 before you go to bed and think about how fortunate you are, comparing those lepers. And then,

you give thanks to God!

Come to your pastor, Huynh Truong or Sunday School Teacher, shake their hands, and thank them for helping in the Sunday

School Program.

References

Everyday Catholic, http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/EDC/ag1103.asp

Live for God, http://www.leftbehind.com/channelliveforgod.asp?pageid=710&channelID=159

http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/EDC/ag1103.asphttp://www.leftbehind.com/channelliveforgod.asp?pageid=710&channelID=159

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2.2.6 Xin Được Đứng Dậy từ Những Vấp Ngã

Chúa chữa Người Bị Bại Liệt-Healing of the Paralytic


“Jesus said to the man who was paralyzed, “I say to you, rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home. He stood up

immediately before them, picked up what he had been lying on, and went home, glorifying God”. (Lk 5: 24-25).

Kiến Thức Liên Quan (Faith / Fact Finding) 1. Believe Jesus’ power to forgive sins.

Bản tính của con người là yếu đuối nên dễ phạm sai lầm. Ví dụ: Phêrô vì sợ hãi nên đã 3 lần chối không biết Chúa Giêsu

trước mặt người đầy tớ gái và mọi người rằng: “Tôi thề là không biết người ấy” (Mt 26:69-74). Chúa đã tha thứ cho

Phêrô và Ngài còn chọn Phêrô đứng đầu trong Giáo Hội. “Thầy bảo cho anh biết: anh là Phêrô, nghĩa là Táng Đá, trên

tảng đá này, Thầy sẽ xây Hội Thánh của thầy” (Mt 16:18).

Thiên Chúa ban ơn tha tội cho những ai biết chạy đến với Ngài qua Bí tích Hòa giải. Các em hãy thường xuyên

đến lãnh nhận Bí tích Giải tội. Vì tình thương và ân sủng của Chúa luôn ban cho những người tội lỗi biết hối

cải. Chỉ cần chúng ta tin vào lòng thương xót vô biên của Chúa như Chúa Giêsu đã chữa người bại liệt chỉ vì

Ngài thấy anh ta có lòng tin. Người bảo: “Này anh, anh đã được tha tội rồi”. (Lc 5:20)

2. Sacrament of Reconciliation

In the well-known parable of the Prodigal Son, we read about the experience of the young man who chooses to

leave his family to pursue a life of pleasure and selfishness. As is the experience of many people who feel that

they have “hit bottom” and then look closely at their lives, it is only when the son runs out of money that he

realizes his error and repents. He begins his journey back to a father who has already forgiven him.

Through the stories from Scripture like the prodigal son parable, combined with reflections on their own

experiences, you can help learners realize that even if they turn away from God, God does not turn away from

them. God always loves them and offers the grace of conversion.

• Go to confession if you have sins because God’s love for the repentant sinner; just have faith in God, and you will be

save.

How to make your confession

1. Make the sign of the cross.

2. Tell the priest when you made your last confession.

3. Confess you sins

4. Listen to what the priest tells you.

5. Say the Act of Contrition.

6. Thanks the priest.

Dẫn Chứng Cụ Thể (Case Study) Binh’s story.

In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost” (Mt 18:14).

Lắng nghe Lời Chúa và thực hành (Listen to God’s Words and practice)

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Lời Chúa: (Lk 5: 17-26)

One day as Jesus was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there who had come from every

village of Galilee and Judes and Jerusalem, and the power of the Lord was with him for healing. And some men

brought on a stretcher a man who was paralyzed; they were trying to bring him in and set him in his presence.

But not finding a way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on the

stretcher through the tiles into the middle in front of Jesus. When he saw their faith, he said, “As for you, your

sin are forgive.” Then the scribes and Parisees began to ask themselves, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies?

Who but God alone can forgive sins?” Jesus knew their thougts and said to them in reply, “What are you

thinking in your hearts?” Which is easier, to say, “Your sins are forgiven, or to say, “Rise and walk?” But that

you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”-he said to the man who was paralyzed,

“I say to you, rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home. He stood up immediately before them, picked up what

he had been lying on, and went home, glorifying God. then astonishment seized them all and they said, “We

have seen incredible things today.”

Thực hành: I will go to confession and promise to do one good thing for (my parents/friend/brother/sister)

in glorifying God.


Believe Jesus’ power to forgive sins.





Sacrament of Reconciliation

God always loves us and offers the grace of conversion.

Go to confession if you have sins because God’s love for the repentant sinner; just have faith in God, and you will be

save.


Dear God, being human means that we have many weaknesses. Help us better understand how we can live your love

more faithfully and more fully. We ask your forgiveness for the times we have not responded to your love. Help us better

imitate the love you have for each of us. May we be willing to forgive one another as you forgive us. Amen.

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Activity

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2.2.7 Xin Được Đứng Dậy từ Những Vấp Ngã

Chúa chữa Người Bị Bại Liệt-Healing of the Paralytic


“Jesus said to the man who was paralyzed, “I say to you, rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home. He stood up

immediately before them, picked up what he had been lying on, and went home, glorifying God”. (Lk 5: 24-25).


1. Believe Jesus’ power to forgive sins.

Bản tính của con người là yếu đuối nên dễ phạm sai lầm. Ví dụ: Phêrô vì sợ hãi nên đã 3 lần chối không biết Chúa Giêsu

trước mặt người đầy tớ gái và mọi người rằng: “Tôi thề là không biết người ấy” (Mt 26:69-74). Chúa đã tha thứ cho

Phêrô và Ngài còn chọn Phêrô đứng đầu trong Giáo Hội. “Thầy bảo cho anh biết: anh là Phêrô, nghĩa là Táng Đá, trên

tảng đá này, Thầy sẽ xây Hội Thánh của thầy” (Mt 16:18).





2. Sacrament of Reconciliation

In the well-known parable of the Prodigal Son, we read about the experience of the young man who chooses to

leave his family to pursue a life of pleasure and selfishness. As is the experience of many people who feel that

they have “hit bottom” and then look closely at their lives, it is only when the son runs out of money that he

realizes his error and repents. He begins his journey back to a father who has already forgiven him.

Through the stories from Scripture like t

Chương Trình Thăng Tiến Phong Tr o TNTT · Pray 3 Hail Mary to ask Mother Mary to intercede...

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