Chapter 8: The Birth of the
Church
UNDERSTANDING THE SCRIPTURES
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
ANTICIPATORY SET
Read silently the first chapter of the Acts of the Apostles, which
narrates the Ascension of Christ and the election of St. Matthias.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
BASIC QUESTIONS
 What final preparation did Christ give his disciples before his Ascension?
 What was the effect of the coming of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles?
 How did St. Peter exercise his office in the Church?
 Why was St. Stephen martyred?
KEY IDEAS
 Christ taught his disciples about the Kingdom of God during the forty days after his
Resurrection.
 On Pentecost, the Apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit; St. Peter preached to pilgrims
in Jerusalem, converting some 3000 to Christ.
 St. Peter showed his primacy by calling for a replacement for Judas, preaching at
Pentecost, and representing the Church.
 The deacon St. Stephen delivered a courageous summary of Jewish history before the
Sanhedrin and, accused of blasphemy, became the first martyr; the Pharisee Saul led a
persecution of early Christians across Israel.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
For what ministry did the Apostles spend forty days preparing?
Their mission was to restore the Kingdom of David.
Why did the Apostles remain in Jerusalem?
Jerusalem was David’s capital city and the place the prophets promised would be
the capital of the new Davidic kingdom.
What was Christ’s answer to the Apostles when asked when he would
restore the kingdom to Israel?
Christ said it was not for them to know, but they would receive the power of the
Holy Spirit and take Christ’s message to the whole world, beginning in Jerusalem.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
What does it mean to sit at the right hand of God?
The right hand side of a king is a place of honor. It is the place promised
to the Anointed One (cf. Ps 110).
What is the order of the restoration of David’s kingdom?
First it would be restored in Israel, then Samaria, and then the rest of the
world.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
GRAPHIC ORGANIZER
Complete the following table according to the map “Judaism at the Time of
Christ” (p. 261).
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Complete a focused reading of the paragraph “In Greek, the
word...” (p. 262) using the following question:
 In the Church, what is the connection between the words office and
bishop?
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What was the criterion for choosing the successor of Judas?
Judas’s replacement had to be someone who had been with Christ from his
Baptism until the Ascension so he could have been an eyewitness to the
Resurrection.
What does Pentecost mean, and what did this Jewish festival celebrate?
Pentecost comes from the Greek for fifty. Fifty days after Passover, the Jews
celebrated the giving of the Law to Moses on Mt. Sinai.
What two similes did St. Luke use to describe the descent of the Holy
Spirit?
There was a sound like the rush of a mighty wind and an appearance of tongues as
of fire.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
How did Jews from the various nations react to the Apostles’
speaking in various languages?
Some were amazed; others said they were drunk.
What did St. Peter inherit from Christ? He inherited Christ’s teaching
authority.
What powers did St. Peter and the Apostles also inherit?
They inherited the powers to heal and to forgive sins.
Who represented the Apostles before the Sanhedrin?
St. Peter spoke for the Church.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Complete a focused reading of the two paragraphs “When the
people ask...” and “Already, less than two...” (p. 264) using the
following question:
 How did the apostolic Church conduct herself ?
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
Who was St. Stephen?
St. Stephen was a Greek and a convert to Christianity, one of the seven deacons
appointed to do charitable works in the Church, and the first martyr of the
Church.
Why was St. Stephen accused of blasphemy?
St. Stephen told of his vision of Jesus Christ at the right hand of God. Extension:
This was blasphemous to Jews because St. Stephen was saying Jesus, whom the
Sanhedrin had condemned to death, was God’s Messiah, or Christ.
What was the effect of Saul’s persecution?
It helped the Church to spread all over Judea and Samaria and as far as Damascus.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Work with a partner to summarize the Catechism, no. 553 (p. 314).
Identify two examples of St. Peter exercising his ministry during this
time.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
How did the earliest Christians view themselves with respect to Judaism?
They considered themselves Jews who had been entrusted with a special mission to
spread the Good News of the Messiah.
How did the earliest Christians worship?
They worshiped at the synagogue every Sabbath and then celebrated the Eucharist
privately in their homes on the Lord’s Day.
What does it mean to say the synagogue and Temple are united in the Mass?
The first part of the Mass, the Liturgy of the Word, is similar in structure and
content to synagogue worship; the second part of the Mass, the Liturgy of the
Eucharist, is derived from the Temple Liturgy of the thank-offering and the
Passover.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT




Study Questions 1–16 (p. 309)
Practical Exercises 1–3 (p. 311)
Workbook Questions 1–25
Read “Philip Baptizes the Ethiopian” through “The Council of
Jerusalem” (pp. 267–273)
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
CLOSURE
Write a paragraph summarizing Christ’s formation of the Apostles
from the time of their calling until the descent of the Holy Spirit.
1. The Early Church (pp. 260–267)
ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT
Use a missal and the Catechism, no. 1345, to write a well-organized
paragraph comparing the present-day Mass to the Liturgy described
by St. Justin Martyr.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
ANTICIPATORY SET
Think/Pair/Share using the Catechism, no. 3 (p. 313), and the
following question:
 Why do you possess the Faith today, and how can you best hand it
on?
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
BASIC QUESTIONS
 What was the significance of the Baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch?
 What is St. Paul’s conversion story?
 How did God show St. Peter the Gentile Cornelius and his household should be
baptized?
 Why was the Council of Jerusalem convened, and what did it decide?
KEY IDEAS
 Led by the Holy Spirit, St. Philip showed the Ethiopian eunuch Jesus Christ is the
fulfillment of the Old Testament, and, when the man asked for Baptism, the Apostle
complied. The Ethiopian, who was barred from becoming a Jew, was the first
Gentile baptized into the Church.
 Saul was dramatically converted to the Faith and became an Apostle.
 St. Peter’s vision and the giving of the Holy Spirit to Cornelius’s household
convinced him Gentiles do not have to become Jews.
 Because some Jewish Christians insisted Gentile converts had to follow the Law, the
Council of Jerusalem settled the question; St. Peter’s decision was endorsed by the
Apostles and promulgated by St. James.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Discuss the following question:
 How were both St. Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch wise men?
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
Why could the Ethiopian eunuch not have become a Jew?
According to the Book of Deuteronomy, a eunuch could never be part of the
Jewish community (cf. 23:1).
What was the most effective argument the early Christians used to gain
converts?
They showed how Jesus Christ fulfilled the Scriptures.
What was the significance of the Baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch?
The Ethiopian eunuch was the first Gentile to be baptized a Christian. He was—
from the Roman point of view—from the farthest part of the known world, so
his Baptism was a sign the Gospel was for the entire world.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Complete a paragraph shrink on the Catechism, no. 781.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
Where was Saul educated?
He received an excellent training in Greek literature and philosophy in Tarsus
and mastered the Scriptures under the most famous of the Pharisees,
Gamaliel.
What was Saul’s means of support during his adult life?
He was a tent maker.
Why was Saul dreaded by the Christians of Jerusalem?
Saul led squads of Temple guards during the first widespread persecution of
Christians in Jerusalem.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Work with a partner to identify those qualities St. Paul possessed that
gave him the potential to become a great Apostle.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What did Christ mean when he said to Saul, “Why do you persecute
me?” (Acts 9:4)?
Saul was persecuting the Church, the Body of Christ. Therefore, he was
persecuting Christ.
Why did St. Ananias argue with Christ?
He was afraid to go to Saul because he was a dangerous man.
Why did St. Paul receive death threats?
After his conversion, his zeal for Christ made him the enemy of his
former allies.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Work with a partner to analyze in writing the points St. Peter makes
in the Acts of the Apostles 15:7–11.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What did the Jewish Christians who came to Antioch claim?
They told the Gentile converts they could not be saved unless they were
circumcised and followed the Law of Moses.
How did St. Paul correct St. Peter?
When some Jewish Christians appeared, St. Peter withdrew from eating with
the Gentile Christians. St. Paul confronted St. Peter publicly and said, “If you,
though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you compel the
Gentiles to live like Jews?” (Gal 2:14).
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
Why did things look bad for St. Paul in the debate about whether
Gentiles had to follow the Old Law to be saved?
St. James the Just was the Head of the Church of Jerusalem and a zealous
follower of the Law.
Why is it remarkable St. James the Just supported St. Peter?
Someone who loved and followed the Law so perfectly was not expected to be
detached enough not to impose it on others.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
Who was St. Cornelius?
He was a Roman commander and a proselyte of the Gate.
What did the voice in the kill and eat vision mean when it said, “What
God has cleansed, you must not call unclean” (Acts 10:15)?
First, all foods are clean, that is, may be eaten despite dietary regulations of the
Law. Second, if a man has been cleaned in Baptism, he is acceptable.
How did St. Peter know St. Cornelius and his household should be
baptized?
They received the gift of the Holy Spirit, and this convinced him they had the
right to be baptized, too. Extension: St. Cornelius and his household received
the Holy Spirit before they were baptized.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
What was the importance of Antioch in the early Church?
It was the greatest center of Christianity outside Jerusalem and where St.
Peter was first bishop.
What was the first name used by the followers of Christ, and what
name did they receive in Antioch?
Christ’s followers called their practice The Way. In Antioch they were called
Christians.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT




Study Questions 17–33 (p. 309)
Practical Exercises 5, 10 (p. 311–312)
Workbook Questions 26–46
Read “Apostle to the Gentiles” through “St. Paul’s Travels” (pp.
274–279)
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
CLOSURE
Free write for five minutes about the remarkable conversion of the
Ethiopian eunuch.
2. Saul’s Conversion (pp. 267–273)
ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT
Work with a partner, using the following question, to understand the
Catechism, no. 856 (p. 316):
 Why should Christians try to convert non-Christians to the Faith?
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
ANTICIPATORY SET
Lead a class discussion about what the students read as homework
(Acts 21:27—22:29), using the following question:
 How does St. Paul’s experience parallel the martyrdom of St.
Stephen?
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
BASIC QUESTIONS
 Why is St. Paul called the Apostle to the Gentiles?
 What is the relationship among the Law, Israel, and the Father?
 What is the relationship between justification and divine sonship?
 After his conversion, to what did St. Paul devote his life?
KEY IDEAS
 St. Paul was uniquely qualified to be the Apostle to the Gentiles, was called to be this by Our
Lord, and carried out his mission intensely, adapting his message to his specific audiences.
 St. Paul used the idea of a pedagogue, the son over which he has charge, and the son’s father as an
analogy to explain the relationship among the Law, Israel, and God the Father; a pedagogue in
charge of a youth had complete authority over him until adulthood, after which the son was
subject only to his father; similarly, the Law was the custodian of Israel until Christ freed Israel,
making Israel subject only to the Father.
 The essence of justification is human beings are made children of God. This includes a
participation in the divine life and the inheritance of eternal life.
 St. Paul devoted his entire life to spreading the Gospel, making at least three missionary
journeys and a journey from Jerusalem to Rome, where he was eventually beheaded by Nero.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What were St. Paul’s qualifications to bring the Gospel to the Gentiles?
He had a classical education, so he could speak to Greeks and Romans on
their own terms. His classical training included logic, which was useful in his
theological writings. He knew the Scriptures well and could refute any
argument the Jewish authorities might bring against him. Finally, his Roman
citizenship protected him to a great degree from anti-Christian conspirators.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
Why was it natural the Gospel be first preached to Jews and then to
Gentiles?
Because the New Covenant was the fulfillment of the Old, it was natural Jews be
the first audience. At the same time, the Gospel was meant for everyone, and,
because so many Jews rejected the message, St. Paul turned to the Gentiles.
Why did St. Paul have St. Timothy circumcised?
St. Timothy had a Greek Gentile father, and St. Paul wanted to avoid scandalizing
the Jews.
Despite his freedom, what was St. Paul willing to do time after time?
He willingly sacrificed his freedom to help preach the truth of the Gospel.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
What was the pedagogue of Israel according to St. Paul?
The Mosaic Law was her pedagogue.
What made Israel grow up?
Israel grew up when Christ came. Extension: The New Testament refers to
Christ’s coming in the fullness of time.
When Israel grew up, to whom alone was she to be subject?
She was to be subject to God the Father alone, no longer to the Law.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
Was the Law good or evil according to St. Paul?
The Law was eminently good.
What is the relationship between sin and the Law according to St.
Paul?
The Law, in a sense, creates sin because it teaches right from wrong.
Extension: The moral law does not create sin in a strict sense; rather, it
commands people to do good and avoid evil. It reveals and clarifies which
deeds are sinful.
What did St. Paul mean when he said a person is justified?
He means that person is made right with God, clean from sin, and worthy
to receive God’s promises.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
What is the relationship between the Law of sin and death and the Law of
the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus?
The Law of sin and death refers to failed human attempts to obey the Mosaic Law;
this Old Law condemns its practitioners to know their sins and fall under the
punishment of death. The Law of the Spirit of Life refers to Christ—by his
Passion, Death, and Resurrection—having fulfilled the punishment required by the
Old Law so all people united to him can live the divine life of the Blessed Trinity in
the Holy Spirit.
What does it mean to say Jesus Christ is a sin offering?
Under the Old Covenant, one who had broken the Law made a sin offering. Christ’s
Death on the Cross is the sin offering of all those united to him.
What does it mean to say the essence of justification is divine sonship?
The central good received through justification, when people are made right with
God through the Redemption of Christ, is to become an adopted son or daughter
of God.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Read silently the paragraph “Paul explains that the Law...” (p. 275)
and then write a one-sentence definition of a Roman-era custodian
(pedagogue).
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Think/Pair/Share using the following question:
 Though one is not saved through obedience to the Law, why is
everybody still supposed to obey the Ten Commandments and do
good works?
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
How did St. Paul explain the doctrine of justification?
St. Paul taught only God himself can justify anyone. He justifies people as a loving
gift to them. Nobody can justify him- or herself through observance of the Law
or by his or her good works apart from grace.
What is the parallel between Adam and Christ with respect to justification?
Adam’s sin dis-graced all people, that is, removed grace from himself and all his
descendants. Christ’s atonement restored them in God’s grace, making people once
again children of God, as was his original intent in creation.
What is the relationship among the Law, sin, and grace?
The Law made sin abound. Where sin abounded, God made grace grow even
more, even to the point of giving his people eternal life.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
Why can a person not earn the right to be part of God’s family?
One can never deserve a place in God’s family. It can only come about as
a gift.
Why can simple obedience to the Law not make a person holy?
The Law, like a custodian, can show what ought to be done, but it cannot
give the strength to act according to it.
How did St. James correct a possible misunderstanding of the
doctrine of justification?
He showed good works are necessary.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
How was St. Paul’s imprisonment in Rome?
He was under house arrest for two years, allowed to have visits from his
friends, and could send letters freely.
When did St. Paul die?
He died a martyr during Nero’s persecution about AD 64, and tradition
holds he died the same day as St. Peter.
Why was St. Paul not crucified?
St. Paul was a Roman citizen from Tarsus, and Roman citizens were
spared crucifixion. Instead, he was beheaded.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
What did St. Paul do in his missionary journeys?
He preached the Gospel, founded new churches, and gave encouragement
to the members of churches that had been founded by other Apostles.
How difficult were St. Paul’s travels?
They were very difficult; he suffered much, including hunger,
imprisonment, shipwreck, and stoning.
Why did St. Paul go to Rome?
He was sent to Rome as a prisoner in keeping with one of his legal rights
as a Roman citizen.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
GRAPHIC ORGANIZER
Complete the following table according to the map “Paul’s First Journey” (p. 279).
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
GRAPHIC ORGANIZER
Create a Graphic Organizer, similar to the one completed on page 279,
of St. Paul’s second or third journey or his journey to Rome according
to the corresponding map (pp. 280–281).
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT




Study Questions 34–44 (p. 309– 310)
Practical Exercises 6–9 (p. 311– 312)
Workbook Questions 47–62
Read “The New Kingdom” through “Councils of the Whole
Church” (pp. 282–288)
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
CLOSURE
Write a paragraph summarizing St. Paul’s explanation of the doctrine
of justification.
3. St. Paul (pp. 274–281)
ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT
Work in groups of three or four to come up with a response to the
following question:
 Were St. Paul starting his ministry today, how would he adapt himself to
young people to communicate his message effectively?
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
ANTICIPATORY SET
Read silently the Catechism, no. 552 (p. 314) and then free write about
Christ’s decision to give Simon the name Peter.
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
BASIC QUESTIONS
 How does the Church fulfill the features of the Davidic Covenant?
 Is the Church’s hierarchical structure evident in the New Testament?
 Where are Church councils present in Scripture?
KEY IDEAS
 The Church contains within herself all the features of the Davidic Covenant.
 The New Testament reveals Christ gave his Church a hierarchical structure with
St. Peter as her Head; the Apostles ordained bishops, priests, and deacons to
assist them and carry on their work.
 In the Acts of the Apostles, at the Council of Jerusalem the Apostles and other
bishops met to decide whether Christians had to be circumcised and follow the
Mosaic Law, with the final decision being pronounced by St. Peter; this is the
prototype for Ecumenical Councils, in which the bishops of the Church have
met to decide important doctrinal questions, ultimately based on the Pope’s
confirmation.
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
In Jacob’s prophecy, to what does “he comes” (Gn 49:10) refer?
This refers to the man who is to come and to whom the ruler’s staff (scepter)
belongs. He will rule not only Israel but the peoples, that is, all the nations.
What is the difference between the scope of David’s and Christ’s kingdoms?
David ruled a small empire in the Middle East whereas Christ’s reign is unlimited.
What is the relationship between the Prophet Samuel’s prophecy to King
David and the Archangel Gabriel’s prophecy to the Blessed Virgin Mary?
The Prophet Samuel said God will give King David’s offspring an eternal rule. The
Archangel Gabriel said God will give the Blessed Virgin Mary’s Son, who is a
descendant of David, an everlasting kingdom.
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
GRAPHIC ORGANIZER
Complete the following table to organize the seven primary features of the
Davidic Covenant fulfilled in the Church (pp. 283–284).
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Conduct a paragraph shrink on “The thank-offering...” (p. 285).
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
In the Church, who is the queen mother?
The Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, is the queen mother.
How can it be known St. Peter is the prime minister in the New
Covenant?
According to Isaiah 22, the prime minister (chief steward) of the royal
government received the key of the house of David to open and shut
exclusively. Christ gave St. Peter the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven with
the power to bind and loose.
What is the thank-offering in the Church?
It is the Eucharist.
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
When did Christ establish the organization of his Church?
Christ chose the Twelve Apostles, entrusted his Church to them, and made
St. Peter their Head.
How was the early Church hierarchy practiced?
The Apostles ordained people to assist them and continue their mission.
The New Testament speaks of bishops, priests, and deacons.
How do bishops correspond to the Apostles?
Modern-day bishops are successors of the Apostles. They are part of an
unbroken chain going back to the Twelve.
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
Who made St. Peter the Head of the Apostles?
Christ made St. Peter the Head after St. Peter had recognized Christ to be the
Son of God (cf. Mt 16).
When did St. Peter begin to act as the leader of the Church?
St. Peter began to lead the Church after Christ had ascended into Heaven.
Citing evidence from the New Testament, did the earliest Christians
view St. Peter as the Head of the Church?
Yes; St. Peter decided the Apostles should find a replacement for Judas. He
was the spokesman for the Church at Pentecost and before the Sanhedrin. He
pronounced the decision against circumcision at the Council of Jerusalem.
He founded the local church in Rome (Diocese of Rome).
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
What was the first local church council?
The Acts of the Apostles records the Council of Jerusalem at which the
Apostles debated the question of circumcision for Gentile converts.
What is the most recent Ecumenical Council of the whole Church?
The Second Vatican Council was held in the 1960s.
What is the purpose of an Ecumenical Council?
One is usually called when an important question of doctrine or discipline
arises in many regions of the world. Response to this question from all
the bishops of the world, united with the Pope, is rendered.
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT




Study Questions 45–57 (p. 310)
Practical Exercises 11–12 (p. 312)
Workbook Questions 63–75
Read “Sacraments” through “Matrimony” (pp. 288–293)
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
CLOSURE
Free write for five minutes about Christ and the Church having
fulfilled the features of the Davidic Covenant.
4. The New Kingdom (pp. 282–288)
ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT
The thesis of this chapter: “Christ has founded a new kingdom.”
Write a paragraph describing the King and his kingdom.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
ANTICIPATORY SET
Discuss the meaning of Sacrament.
“The sacraments are efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and
entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us. The
visible rites by which the sacraments are celebrated signify and make
present the graces proper to each sacrament. They bear fruit in those who
receive them with the required dispositions.” (CCC 131)
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
BASIC QUESTIONS
 Is the sacramental economy seen in Scripture?
 What are the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, and Penance?
 What are the Sacraments of the Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and
Matrimony?
KEY IDEAS
 In the New Testament, each of the Seven Sacraments was instituted by Christ
himself and entrusted to his Church; they are the ordinary means by which the
saving effects of the Paschal Mystery are dispensed to Catholics.
 Baptism is necessary for salvation; Confirmation completes Baptism; the Eucharist
is the Body and Blood of Christ; Penance forgives sins committed after Baptism.
 The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick forgives sins and can heal those who
are ill; the Sacrament of Holy Orders ordains a man to be a deacon, priest, or
bishop; the Sacrament of Matrimony raises natural marriage to a means of grace for
the mutual sanctification of the spouses and their children.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What is a Sacrament?
It is an efficacious sign of God’s grace instituted by Jesus Christ and entrusted
to the Church.
Who instituted the Seven Sacraments?
They were instituted by Christ and can be found in the New Testament.
From where do the Sacraments derive their power?
They are given power by Christ, and they are the work of the Holy Spirit. The
saving effects of the Paschal Mystery are communicated through the
Sacraments.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Think/Pair/Share to complete #78 (p. T178) in the Student Workbook
about the relationship between the necessity of Baptism for salvation and
those cases in which Baptism is impossible to administer.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Think/Pair/Share using the following question:
 How is the Sacrament of Confirmation always linked to the bishop?
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
When did Christ institute the Sacrament of Baptism?
Before his Ascension, Christ commanded his Apostles, “Make disciples of
all nations, baptizing them” (Mt 28:19).
Who is the minister of the Sacrament of Baptism?
A bishop, priest, or deacon is the ordinary minister; in danger of death,
any person—even one not baptized—can baptize.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
How is the timing of the administration of Confirmation different
in the East and West?
In the Eastern Rites of the Catholic Church, Confirmation is
administered by a priest or bishop immediately following Baptism in the
same liturgical service. In the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church, it is
usually deferred and administered by a bishop.
Where is the Sacrament of Confirmation demonstrated in the New
Testament?
In the Acts of the Apostles, the Apostles laid hands on newly-baptized
Christians who then received the Holy Spirit.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Think/Pair/Share about sacramental economy using the Catechism, no.
1076 (p. 316). Write a sentence about the Sacraments’ relationship to
salvation.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
When was the Sacrament of the Eucharist instituted?
The Eucharist was instituted at the Last Supper.
How can a person know the consecrated bread and wine have become
the Body and Blood of Christ?
Christ said, “My flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed” (Jn 6:55).
This teaching is found in many places throughout the New Testament.
What is transubstantiation?
It describes the true substance of the bread and of the wine having become
the true substance of Jesus Christ.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Invite a priest or deacon to discuss his experiences administering the
Sacraments and to answer students’ questions.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
When was the Sacrament of Penance instituted?
The Sacrament of Penance was instituted on the evening of the Resurrection. Christ
breathed on the Apostles and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins
of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained” (Jn 20:23).
Christ gave the Apostles the power to bind and loose.
What is the difference between mortal and venial sin?
A venial sin harms one’s relationship with God; a mortal sin breaks that relationship.
Who can forgive sins?
A bishop or a priest (who has received the authority from his bishop), can pronounce
the forgiveness of sins in Christ’s name.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
In which two books of the New Testament is the Anointing of the Sick
found?
It appears in the Gospel of St. Mark and the Epistle of St. James.
What evidence from Scripture shows physical healing is not always an effect
of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?
St. Paul, who was famous for miraculous healings and once raised a man from the
dead, was not healed when he prayed to be rid of the thorn that tormented him.
What is the relationship between the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
and suffering?
Through this Sacrament, a person’s suffering is united to the Passion of Christ.
The Sacrament can help him or her face illness and even death with strength and
grace.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
How can a person know marriage is part of God’s creation?
In the Book of Genesis, the Sacred Author revealed marriage is the reason
a man leaves his father and mother to become one flesh with his wife.
How is Heaven described in the Book of Revelation?
It is described as a wedding banquet.
How can a person know Christ is present in a sacramental marriage?
Christ was present at the Wedding Feast at Cana where he assisted the
couple directly by turning water into wine. Extension: St. Paul described
marriage as an image of the relationship between Christ and his Church (cf.
Eph 5).
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
What are the three levels of ordained ministry in the Church, and what did these
terms originally mean?
Bishop comes from the Greek for overseer, priest from elder, and deacon from servant.
Extension: Deacons serve their bishops by, among their many responsibilities,
baptizing, presiding at weddings, and preaching. Priests serve their bishops by
celebrating the Eucharist, forgiving sins, baptizing, anointing the sick, presiding at
weddings, and preaching. Bishops exercise the fullness of the priesthood and can
celebrate all of the Sacraments, including Holy Orders.
Where are each of these three levels seen in the New Testament?
St. Stephen was one of the seven deacons, and he distributed alms to elderly widows.
St. James advised the sick to call on the priests to receive the Anointing of the Sick. St.
Paul described the bishop as caring for God’s Church (cf. 1 Tm).
What is the meaning of in persona Christi (capitis)?
A minister acts in the Person of Christ (the head) when he celebrates the Sacraments,
especially in the Sacrifice of the Mass.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Read silently about marriage as a sign of the relationship between Christ
and his Church (Eph 5:21—6:4), and discuss this great mystery.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What did Christ teach about divorce?
Marriage is a lifelong union. Divorce was not the intention of God when he
created men and women, but Moses allowed it because of human weakness.
What is the purpose of the grace received in the Sacrament of Matrimony
according to the Catechism, no. 1641?
It is intended to perfect the couple’s love, strengthen their indissoluble union, help
each other attain holiness, and welcome and educate children.
How is Christ present in Christian marriages?
Christ dwells with the spouses, helping them in every aspect of their married lives.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT




Study Questions 58–69 (p. 310)
Practical Exercises 14–15 (p. 312)
Workbook Questions 76–93
Read “What Jesus Taught About the End of History” through “The
Heavenly Eucharist” (pp. 294–301)
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
CLOSURE
Write a paragraph explaining the New Testament evidence for the
Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, and Penance.
5. The Sacraments (pp. 288–293)
ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT
Think/Pair/Share about the differences between natural marriage and
sacramental marriage.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
ANTICIPATORY SET
Incorporate one of Christ’s discourses about the end of the age (Mt
24:1–44) into the class’s Opening Prayer.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
BASIC QUESTIONS
 What did Christ teach about the end of the world?
 When did the end of the world of the Old Covenant take place?
 How does the Book of Revelation correspond to the parts of the Mass?
KEY IDEAS
 The end of history will occur when Christ returns in glory to judge the living
and the dead and reward each person according to his deeds.
 The end of the Old Covenant came with the destruction of Jerusalem and its
Temple about AD 70.
 The Book of Revelation is a kind of vision of the heavenly Liturgy, and, like the
Mass, it has two parts which are akin to the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy
of the Eucharist. The first part, with its call to repentance, is like the Penitential
Rite of the Mass. The opening of the scrolls is like the reading of the Word.
The second part of the Book of Revelation is like the Liturgy of the Eucharist
because Christ is presented just as at Mass.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What did the early Christians seem to expect would take place soon?
They seemed to believe the end of the world was imminent.
What did Christ predict?
He said some of those standing with him would “see the Son of Man
coming in his kingdom” (Mt 16:28) and “this generation will not pass
away” before the things he described would have taken place (Mt 24:34).
What actually did end about AD 70?
The world of the Old Covenant came to a sudden and catastrophic end
with the destruction of the Temple.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
To what do Christians look forward at the end of the world?
Christ will return in glory, reward each person according to his or her
works, and give the faithful eternal happiness with him in Heaven (the
Beatific Vision).
Who can predict when the end of the world will come?
No human person can predict it.
According to the Catechism, no. 676, when will the world achieve an
earthly paradise?
It will never achieve this; all promises of an earthly paradise—separate
from Christ’s return and judgment at the end of time—are false.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
For what was Florus known?
His cruel tyranny over Judea was marked by floggings and massacres of
Jews.
How did zealous Jews respond to Florus’s oppression?
They revolted, murdering any Jew they suspected of collaborating with the
Romans.
What success did such zealotry have?
Initially it was successful, but the Romans eventually sent their best general,
Vespasian, who turned the tide in Rome’s favor.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
What did the Christians do when the Romans came to Jerusalem?
They withdrew from Jerusalem to a town called Pella across the Jordan.
This kept with Christ’s admonition, “Let those who are in Judea flee to
the mountains” (Mt 24:16).
What sufferings did the inhabitants of Jerusalem face under Titus?
Jerusalem was crammed with refugees who suffered terrible starvation.
The inhabitants died of starvation or were killed in battle. The rest were
sold as slaves or thrown to the lions. Jerusalem was destroyed.
What happened to the Temple?
The Temple was razed, never to be rebuilt.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Think/Pair/Share:
 How was the destruction of the Temple the end of the world?
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
GRAPHIC ORGANIZER
Complete the following table to identify three kinds of statements in
Christ’s discourse (cf. p. 294).
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What is the second key that opens the Book of Revelation for the reader’s
understanding?
The Mass, or Divine Liturgy, is the second key.
According to the Catechism, no. 1136, what is the heavenly Liturgy, that is,
the action of the members of Christ in Heaven?
The heavenly Liturgy is “wholly communion and feast.”
How is the Book of Revelation related to the Mass, or Divine Liturgy?
The structure of the Book of Revelation is the same as that of the Mass, or Divine
Liturgy. The Book of Revelation can be divided into two parts, the first like the
Liturgy of the Word and the second like the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
When did St. John’s vision take place?
It took place on a Sunday—the Lord’s Day—when Christians everywhere
were celebrating the Mass, or Divine Liturgy.
Who is the one like a son of man?
It is Christ.
How does the Book of Revelation begin, and to what part of the
Mass is it related?
This section, a call to repentance, is like the Penitential Rite that precedes
the Liturgy of the Word.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Read St. John’s vision of Christ at the door (cf. Rev 3:20) and then
analyze the illustration of William Holman Hunt’s “Light of the World”:
http://www.artchive.com/artchive/h/hunt/hunt_light_of_world.jpg
Discuss the following question:
 How does the vision of the open door represent human freedom?
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
In St. John’s vision of God enthroned with all the heavenly beings forever
worshiping him, of what would his original readers have been reminded?
They would have recalled the Temple in Jerusalem.
What is the relationship between the Lion of Judah and the Lamb?
These are both symbols of Christ. The Lion of Judah is the image of a conquering
champion, and the victory of salvation was won by the Lamb of God who was slain.
How do the four horsemen suggest the Jewish revolution?
The first horse rides out to conquer. The other three bring war, famine, and death. The
Jewish rebels started the war with success against Rome to free Israel, but the result
was a terrible war, the starvation of the inhabitants of Jerusalem during the siege, and
then the death of over one million.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
What mark do the 144,000 receive?
The cross-shaped Greek letter Tau is put on the foreheads of the People of
God—12,000 from each of the Twelve Tribes of Israel—to protect them from
destruction. These symbolic numbers refer to the New Jerusalem.
In the historical context of Revelation, who are the 144,000?
They are the Jewish Christians who fled to the mountains across the Jordan.
How does the seventh seal recall Exodus?
The seven angels blow seven trumpets, and each of the first six trumpets releases
a plague to punish the earth. As they did during the Exodus, the wicked refuse to
repent. The number seven represents spiritual perfection.
What reminds readers of the Liturgy of the Word in the first half of the
Book of Revelation?
The emphasis is on the content of the written scrolls.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Read silently Chapter 12 of the Book of Revelation and identify the
characters presented.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
GUIDED EXERCISE
To help understand more deeply the portrait of the glorified Christ in
the Book of Revelation (cf. 1:12–20), describe the vision of Christ in
your own words.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
How is the Blessed Virgin Mary the New Ark of the Covenant?
An ark is a container. The Ark of the Covenant contained the tablets of the Law,
some manna, and Aaron’s rod. The Blessed Virgin Mary bore in her womb the
Word of God incarnate, the Bread of Life, and the one who will rule the nations
with a rod of iron. She contained God like the Ark of the Old Covenant had
contained representations of God.
How is the woman like the Church?
As the woman was attacked by the dragon but kept safe in the wilderness, the
Church was attacked by the Devil but was kept safe in the wilderness of Pella.
How does the vision of the woman with child relate to Adam and Eve?
The serpent (dragon) tempted and conquered Adam and Eve. Jesus Christ and the
Blessed Virgin Mary—the New Adam and New Eve—overcame the dragon.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
When was the Ark supposed to have reappeared?
The Ark would be rediscovered when “God gathers his people together again and
shows his mercy” (2 Mc 2:7).
What did St. John introduce immediately after he mentioned the Ark?
St. John gave a vision of the woman with child.
What did the great dragon in the vision wish to do?
It wanted to devour the child as soon as he was born.
What was the destiny of the child?
He was to rule all nations with a rod of iron, and he was caught up to God and to
his throne.
What happened to the woman?
She fled into the wilderness where she was protected by God.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT




Study Questions 70–81, 83–84 (p. 310)
Practical Exercises 13, 16 (p. 312)
Workbook Questions 94–118
Read “The Beasts” through “The Warning and the Promise” (pp. 301–
304)
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
CLOSURE
Free write for five minutes about how the Book of Revelation reflects the
Mass.
6. The Heavenly Liturgy (pp. 294–301)
ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT
Free write for five minutes about what you consider the most
important idea of this lesson.
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301– 305)
ANTICIPATORY SET
Analyze the illustration by Durer on page 302, and then discuss the
photographs of the two men superimposed.
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
BASIC QUESTIONS
 What are the two beasts of Revelation 13?
 What is the New Jerusalem?
 What will happen at the end of time?
KEY IDEAS
 The two beasts of Revelation 13 represent corrupt governments that
persecute the Church.
 The New Jerusalem is the city of the redeemed; it has no Temple
because God will dwell directly with his people.
 God will recompense everybody for the good or evil he or she has
done; persons and even particular churches will be lost if they choose
not to adhere to the Faith, of which the seven churches of Asia are an
example.
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What is the seven-headed beast in Revelation 13?
It would have reminded St. John’s readers of the Roman Empire or the dynasty of
the Herods. It also represents any corrupt government that persecutes Christians.
How do people worship the beast today?
People worship the beast today when they compromise their faith to get on a
government’s good side. Extension: Whenever people put aside what is right in
order to gain power or wealth, they are worshiping the beast.
What does the number 666 mean?
The number six represents imperfection, and the number three symbolizes
completeness. Thus, the sign of the Beast (Satan)—three sixes—is the complete
imperfection, or complete evil.
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
What is the true message of the Book of Revelation?
It is a message of consolation and hope for Christians because, though they
suffer plagues and tribulations, in the end is guaranteed triumph for Christ
and his Church.
What are some images used to describe the New Jerusalem?
It will be very beautiful, like a bride adorned for her husband; there will be
no sadness or suffering; and, best of all, God will dwell with his people face
to face (the Beatific Vision).
Why will there be no Temple in the New Jerusalem?
God, dwelling among his people, himself will take the place of the Temple.
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Think/Pair/Share using the following question:
 Why is worship in Heaven the same as worship on earth?
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
GUIDED EXERCISE
Conduct a focused reading of the paragraphs “If we needed any more...”
through “Behold, I am coming...” (p. 303) using the following question:
 What is the warning of the seven churches of Asia?
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What is the grace of final perseverance?
God gives this grace to help people stay faithful to Christ until the end of
their lives.
What is the recompense of God?
It is the reward God will give for all good works accomplished with the
assistance of his grace.
When will be the end of the world?
Only God the Father knows.
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT
 Study Questions 82, 85–89 (p. 310–311)
 Practical Exercises 4, 17–18 (p. 311, 313)
 Workbook Questions 119–125
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
CLOSURE
Free write for five minutes about something you did not understand
from this lesson.
7. The New Jerusalem (pp. 301–305)
ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT
Work with a partner to discuss answers to the Basic Questions of this
lesson:
 What are the two beasts of Revelation 13?
 What is the New Jerusalem?
 What will happen at the end of time?
THE END