Lord Jesus, we ask for Your help as we begin this new school year. Allow us to experience Your presence in the many blessings You put before us. Open our eyes to the new challenges and exciting opportunities that this new school year brings. Open our heart and mind to new friends and new teachers. Give us a generous spirit to be enthusiastic with our studies and courage to accept new opportunities. Help us to be attentive to one another and let us experience Your presence in our new friends. Jesus, inspire us to do our best this year! Amen
Lord, Give us insight to see realistically “what is”; but make us dreamers and give us vision of all the possibilities for “what can be.” Use us as your instruments to form, inform, reform, and transform those who come to us. We ask this in your name, Jesus Christ. Amen
Loving Creator, Map your goals for us in our hearts. Make our classrooms oases in the busy world. Make them places of warmth and trust. May our affirmation of our students enable them to know that their opinion counts. Free them to stretch themselves as they seek holistic growth in a safe, nurturing, Christian environment. Amen
Dearest Father in Heaven, Bless us all and bless this day of new beginnings. Smile upon this staff and student body, And surround us, Lord, with the soft mantle of your love. Teach this community to follow in your footsteps, And to live life in the ways of Love, faith, hope and charity. We ask this through your name, Jesus Christ… Amen
God, I am not sure if you really exist. Accept me with all my doubts and fears and show yourself to me in such a way that I can somehow move forward. Show yourself to me as love, Show yourself to me as forgiveness Show yourself to me as new life, as the promise of a new beginning. Amen
Lord God, You are a global God. Grace us and grace our students with global vision in our mission to spread your love. May we be trailblazers as we bring that “touch of magic,” that touch of your love, to those we meet each day. We make this prayer in your name, Jesus Christ. Amen
Loving Father: Make us feeling people, who empathize with the many emotions which pervade our buildings each day. May we harness the energy of those feelings and use it in building a learning community of students, faculty, administrators, staff, and parents within the nurturing environment of our schools and homes. Amen
May the blessing of the Holy Trinity go with us today. May God’s strength keep us secure. May Christ our true Wisdom guide our learning. May the Holy Spirit make us glad and good. May the enfolding of the Trinity hold us and bring us, at day’s end, safely home. Amen.
Lord, keep us strong so that we can carry out your works: feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, clothing the naked and being a voice for those who suffer persecution. Bless us this year, so that we may all experience rich friendships, authentic success, and purpose in all we do. Amen
Lord God, In our work as Catholic students and teachers, let us reach out to all, remembering that anonymity is not acceptable for anyone in our communities. May we live our lives so that people recognize you in us…so that wearing the cross would not be incongruous to those who know us. May those in our schools be “pearls” to us, valued for the unique beauty they bring to our communities. Amen
Creator God, May our lives be quilted together in love made visible, as we laugh, love, labour, and learn together. Enliven our spirits that our inner beings may give form and strength to all we do. Finally, grant that we who serve in Catholic schools may love you much, may love one another, and may never forget why we came! Amen.
Loving God, Look upon these students. Let them enjoy their learning and take delight in new discoveries. Help them to persevere in their studies and give them the desire to learn all things well. Look upon these teachers. Let them strive to share their knowledge with gentle patience and endeavour always to bring the truth to eager minds. Grant that students and teachers alike may follow Jesus Christ, the way, the truth, and the life, forever and ever. Amen
prayer-resource.blogspot.com
At the start of a new school year:
A huge thank you to all teachers, for your heart, devotion, and love for our children. As parents, we are so grateful for you, our words may not always fully express what we feel inside. We appreciate all that you do, often behind the scenes where no one even sees. Know that you are loved and valued by many. You are an amazing gift to our kids and to our families!
God’s blessings over you, this new year ahead.
A prayer for our teachers, as we start back to school this year…
Dear God,
We pray for your peace and covering over this day, and for the whole year ahead. We thank you in advance for all that you have in store and ask that you would unfold great blessings and gifts in the coming days, that this would be remembered as a year that God gave greatly.
We ask for your wisdom and grace for each teacher as they prepare to lead their class each day. Equip them for every good work you have prepared ahead of time, we ask that your strength would fill them, that you would enable them to do all that they do with a heart of compassion and grace that comes straight from you. Give them ability and effectiveness as they teach, fill them with creativity and passion for this very important role that you have called them to. Give them laughter and fun in every day, but especially in the times when they get tired.
And in the moments when they feel like there’s just not enough time to do all they need to do, multiply their hours, and give success to their efforts, for we know that you are able to do much more with a day than we ever could. Remind them that they have the incredible ability to make a difference in the life of a child. Every. Single. Day. And that what they do is so important, because they are a part of building greatness in our world, through the next generation.
Give help when they’re weary, give grace when they feel they’ve reached the limit, give peace when they feel overwhelmed. Empower them by your Spirit with enough energy to match even the most active child in their class. Help them find strength in one another, reminding them that they are a team, and that there is greater power together, rather than alone, to face every struggle and obstacle that may come their way. Remind them, that more than representing a job, or a school, or a district, they represent you, and because of this, your spirit and covering are brought to school every day. And that is a very powerful thing.
Give them a spirit of discernment for every child in their class, that they have the heart to understand each one of them more deeply, and see them as you see them. Give them a great ability to understand every parent represented too, reminding that you have destined every one of those paths to cross, and you have great purpose in it all. Give them a heart shield to block out any negativity, to see through the outside to the inner fears involved, to let go of what needs to fall away, and to hold on to what needs to be held on to. Give wisdom to embrace encouragement along the way and to give encouragement where it is needed. Instill in us all, teachers and parents, a heart of learning this year, because we’re never too old to learn new things. Give us all fresh perspective to see life through the eyes of a child, because sometimes important things become blurred and unclear as we grow up.
Surround their families and personal lives in your care and protection, providing abundantly for every need that they have. Help them to release every concern and anxiety into your hand, believing that you are able – to do anything.
Love through them, shine on them, pour out your blessing and favor over them, throughout the year.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
He is with you always…
12 Verses of Encouragement for Teachers:
“The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you, the Lord lift up his countenance on you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26
“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:25-26
“Whatever work you do, do it with all your heart. Do it for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23
“Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.” Deuteronomy 32:2
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Proverbs 16:3
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
“…and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:4
“Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech…” Titus 2:7-8
“The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24
“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us…to him be the glory…forever and ever…Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
debbiemcdaniel.com
The prayers below are freely available for non-profit evangelization purposes. Please use and adapt them as you see fit.
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General School/Staff Prayer Resources
RCCDSB Board Prayer
2018 Board Theme
NEW: RCCDSB 2018-19 Board Theme Prayer, Reverencing the Dignity of the Whole Person
NEW: RCCDSB 2018-19 Board Theme Staff Prayer Service: Reverencing the Dignity of the Whole Person
NEW: Leading With Reverence for the Gift of One Another
(Suitable for opening PA Day, PLC, Retreat)
Planning Resources
NEW: What Makes an Effective Prayer Service?
(One page overview of how to put together an effective prayer service for use in our Catholic schools. Explains individual parts with helpful diagram to illustrate how they fit together.)
Eucharist Resources
NEW: School Mass Planning Template
(Recommended for staff members planning school Masses, adapted from template in EOCCC’s Curriculum Support for Catholic Schools)
Prayer Responses for Weekday Masses
(Printable single page with responses for parts of the weekday Mass. Helpful for student and staff review at beginning of year.)Simplified Overview of the Mass(One page reference sheet outlining major parts of the Mass and what they mean. Will be useful for classroom and adult use.)
August
NEW: RCCDSB Summer Institute 2018 Opening Prayer
(Theme: Reverencing the Dignity of the Whole Person, with adult faith reflection on ACBO pastoral letter, Renewing the Promise. Easily adapted for use on other occasions)
September
CEW First Week of School Resources
CEW 2019 Theme: LIVING AS JOYFUL DISCIPLES / VIVRE EN DISCIPLES JOYEUX
“Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy.” (1 Peter 1:8)Daily Sub-themes: Monday: Rooted in Prayer / Enracinés dans la prièreTuesday: Living in Community / Vivre au coeur de la communautéWednesday: Doing Justice and Creating Hope / Semer la justice et inspirer l’espéranceThursday: Journeying Together in Faith / Cheminer ensemble dans la foiFriday: Sharing the Good News / Partager la bonne nouvelleCEW September Resource Kit with daily prayers for first week of schoolSchool/Parish Mass ResourcesNEW:School Mass Planning Sheet
(Will be helpful for staff members organizing school Masses)
School Prayer Services
NEW: Orange Shirt Week School Morning Announcements & Prayers: Sept 25-29, 2017
(A week of announcements, prayers, reflections and links to prepare for Orange Shirt Day as a follow-up to Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission).
NEW: Prayer Service to Begin a New School Year
(Suitable for elementary . Strong emphasis on welcoming, friendship and kindness as students begin a new school year)NEW: Catholic Education Week Daily Prayers for First Week of School(RCCDSB-adapted resource contains short daily prayers for elementary and secondary based on 2018 theme, Fulfilling the Promise and daily sub-themes. Also includes suggested music, readings and planning sheet for Eucharistic celebrations)Prayer Service to Invoke the Holy Spirit at the Beginning of a School Year
Prayer Service for Peace(Can be used as commemoration of September 11th or Remembrance Day)Back to School Prayers from blog of Fr. Austin Fleming (Archd. of Boston):• A Student’s Prayer• A Parent’s Prayer for Students• A Teacher’s Prayer• A Parent’s Prayer When a Daughter Leaves Home• A Parent’s Prayer When a Son Leaves HomeIntentions for Opening School MassStaff Prayer Services
NEW: RCCDSB 2018-19 Board Theme Staff Prayer Service: Reverencing the Dignity of the Whole Person
NEW: Embracing Change, Anchored in Christ
(Staff prayer service at the start of a new school year)NEW: Re-Proclaiming our Distinctiveness With Warmth, Hospitality, Good Humour and Joy
(Originally composed for inaugural leadership team meeting, easily adapted for staff use)Integrating the Catholic Faith Through Critical Analysis of the Arts, Media and Technology
(Prayer for Catholic Educators to begin school year, focusing on integrating Catholic faith through a critical analysis of the arts, media & technology)A New Year of Leading and Serving(Prayer service for leaders in Catholic schools at the beginning of a new calendar year – easily adapted for new school year)New Employee Orientation Opening Prayer(Easily adapted as staff prayer to begin new school year)Staff Prayer to Invoke the Holy Spirit(For the Start of a New School Year)Additional Staff Prayers on Prayers-By-Theme Page, see Professional Activity Prayer Services, Teacher Orientation, Inservice and Leadership Prayers
October
School Resources:
Rosary
NEW: Google Image Search: How to Pray the Rosary
(Lots of downloadable BLMs and guides. If in doubt about a resource, please check it with someone on staff familiar with praying the Rosary)
Printable Colouring Sheet: How to Say the Rosary
(From coloringhome.com website)
Pinterest: The Rosary for Kids
Living Rosary Outline with Joyful Mysteries
Living Rosary Outline with Sorrowful MysteriesLiving Rosary Outline with Glorious MysteriesLiving Rosary Outline with Mysteries of Light Mysteries of the Rosary for Youth
(By Deacon Doug McManaman)Teaching the Rosary to High School Students(From Engagingfaith.blogspot.com Practical advice for teaching the Rosary, with helpful links resources related to Mary)
Staff PrayersNew: Following Jesus With Mary (Prayer service to open PA Day, PLC or staff meeting. Reflects on role of Mary in early Church and in our lives)
Prayer to Our Lady Before a Staff MeetingPrayer to Mary, Mother of Hope (From prayer in Pope John Paul II’s Apostolic Exhortation, Jesus Christ Alive in His Church, the Source of Hope for Europe , 2003)
Marian Prayers
(Classic, papal, litany, novena and other Marian prayers from University of Dayton Mary Prayer Page)
Adult Faith Materials:Who is My Mother? Reflecting on the Role of Mary in our Lives (Excercise for Group Reflection on the Role of Mary in our Lives)
The Role of Mary in the Life of the Church (Powerpoint presentation on Our Lady’s role in the life of Christ’s faithful.
Notes available (contact [email protected] )
NEW: Fatima Anniversary Morning Prayer Announcements
(Updated Oct, 2018. For three days leading up to October 13th. Each day briefly recounts events leading up to and including Fatima apparitions, their messages, Miracle of the Sun, and finishes with a prayer.)Fatima links:
ETWN 100 Years of Fatima Website (Good overview of messages, theological interpretation, photo gallery)The Meaning of Fatima, 100 Years Later(Our Sunday Visitor – very good overview of apparitions, messages, Church response)Fatima’s Final Visions(OSV, looks at the October 13th apparition, Miracle of the Sun, final message)
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Day Prayer ServiceVideo: Thanksgiving Bulletin Board With Prayers(Art, Literacy and Religion come together in beautiful hall display by Mrs. Halk’s Grade 2-3 class at St. Thomas Apostle in Renfrew, Ontario)
New: Thanksgiving Colouring Pages(Hundreds of printable Thanksgiving BLMs from Google Images)Thanksgiving Blessing(for inclusion in prayer service )Catholic Catechist Thanksgiving prayers and resourcesThanksgiving ideas from Catholicmom.com
St. Marguerite D’Youville
St. Marguerite D’Youville Feast Day School Morning Announcement
(Feast day of St. Marguerite October 16)
Biography of St. Marguerite(CCCB website)
CARFLEO St. Marguerite d’Youville Resource Page
Halloween, All Saints, All Souls (See also November below)New: All Hallows Eve, All Saints and All Souls: Morning Announcements
(Explains each day’s significance, with short reading, reflection question and prayer. Suitable for elementary and secondary use)
Prayer Service for All Saints and All Souls (Suitable for elementary and secondary school use)
New: CARFLEO All Saints & All Souls Day Resource Page
New: Halloween, All Saints and All Souls Classroom Activities & Crafts
(From Katie Bogner’s Looktohimandberadiant blog)
New: Saints Colouring Pages
(Google image search)
Saints Colouring Pages and Resources
(4catholiceducators.com – Always an excellent place for resources)
Printable Saints Colouring Pages
(from Catholicplayground.com)
More Printable Saints Colouring Pages
(Listed in alphabetical order at coloringsaints.org)
St. John XXIII Colouring Page
St. John Paul II Colouring PagesSPQN Resources on Saints
(Great links to information on saints of all kinds)Catholic Catechist.org Prayers and ActivitiesQuestions and Answers on Saints and Sainthood from St. Anthony Messenger Press
November
Feasts of All Saints and All Souls
New: All Hallows Eve, All Saints and All Souls: Morning Announcements
(Explains each day’s significance, with short reading, reflection question and prayer. Suitable for elementary and secondary use)
Prayer Service for All Souls and All Saints
Heaven, Hell and Purgatory in the Catechism of the Catholic Church
(Good reference for what the Church teaches for when questions related to All Saints and All Souls arise. Some nuance and simplification may be needed)
Related Links:
New: Halloween, All Saints and All Souls Classroom Activities & Crafts
(From Katie Bogner’s Looktohimandberadiant blog)
New: Saints Colouring Pages
(Google image search)
Saints Colouring Pages and Resources
(4catholiceducators.com – Always an excellent place for resources)
Printable Saints Colouring Pages
(from Catholicplayground.com)
More Printable Saints Colouring Pages
(Listed in alphabetical order at coloringsaints.org)
St. John XXIII Colouring Page
St. John Paul II Colouring PagesSPQN Resources on Saints
(Great links to information on saints of all kinds)
Catholic Catechist.org Prayers and Activities
Questions and Answers on Saints and Sainthood from St. Anthony Messenger Press
Remembrance Day
Prayer Service For Remembrance Day (best suited to secondary school and adults)
Remembrance Day Prayer Service (best suited to secondary school and adults)
Remembrance Day Prayer (Short prayer that can be used with announcements or as part of prayer service)
Prayer Service for Peace (Can be used as commemoration of September 11th or Remembrance Day)
Reflection on Peace
New: The Legacy Series Stories of the Second World War
(Six videos and downloadable lesson plans from Canada’s Aviation and Space Museum)
Veterans’ Affairs Canada Teachers’ Resources PagePlanning Template for School Remembrance Day Service
(Template from EOCCC resource, Curriculum Support for Catholic Schools)
Bullying Awareness Week 2016
RCCDSB Resource Package, Reverencing the Dignity of All
Restorative Justice Week 2013: “Inspiring Innovation” (Nov 17th-24th)
Correctional Services Canada Restorative Justice Web Portal
Church Council on Justice and Corrections Services Resources (See Prayers and Theological Reflections for a helpful prayer service – dated 2010 but still current)
Advent-Christmas
New: Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas and the Unborn
(One page history of Our Lady of Guadalupe and her role in restoring Aztec culture to its fullness in Christ after the conquest of Mexico. Suitable for adult reading and secondary school use)
New: Our Lady of Guadalupe Colouring Pages
(Google search page – lots of colouring pages to choose from. Please check copyright)
New: Catholic Education Week Advance Kit Advent Prayer (RCCDSB-Adapted)
RCCDSB Resources
Prayers from Revised Translation of the Order of Mass
(Printable 2-sided flyer, easy reference sheet for students & staff)– School Prayer Services
Advent/Christmas School Mass Prayer of the Faithful
(Prayer intentions were written for Advent school Mass; easily adapted for early school Christmas Mass)Advent Prayer Service(Prayer Service For Schools)Week 3 Advent Celebration: Joy(Prayer service for schools to celebrate the third week of Advent)Prayer to Open a Christmas Concert(Short prayer that can be led by a student before start of concert)Advent Prayer Service: Listening in the Light of Christ
(Adapted from Catholic Education Week 2012 Advance Kit)Advent Wreath Candle Lighting Prayer(Loyola Press website)
New: Weekly Prayers for Lighting Advent Wreath Candles(Loyola Press)– Handouts
Advent Wreath Handout(One page handout explaining the Advent wreath, the meaning of its symbols and colours)Wish List for Christmas and Easter(Classroom exercise for students of all ages by John Artymko, St. John Bosco Catholic School, Barry’s Bay)– Staff Prayer Services & Reflections
Expectant Waiting in Joyful Hope(Advent Prayer Service for Staff )Adult Advent Prayer ServiceHistory, Mystery & Majesty Advent Staff Reflection Guide
We Who Believe: Growing in Adult Faith, Advent Reflection Exercises(EOCCC, 2013. See pages 1-10: Hope in Advent, Peace in Advent, Joy in Advent, Love in Advent)– Music: Advent Counterpoint(Sheet music for a simple three-part Advent counterpoint for class/assembly/prayer service/Christmas concert. Hint: try teaching the parts to three distinct groups. Have the first group run through once; as they begin the second time, have the second voices come in and sing it through; on the third time through, bring the third group in, and have all three groups sing the piece together 5 or 6 times. You just need a good leader to keep all 3 groups on track.)Lyrics to Favourite Advent Hymns (From Domestic-church.com)
Catholic Advent Favourites:
– As He Comes, The Virgin’s Son (CBW III 301)
– Come Thou Long Expected Jesus (Sheet music: various scores)
– O Come Divine Messiah (CBW III 310)
– O Come, O Come Emmanuel (CBW III 312)
– On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry (CBW III 351)
– People Look East
Organ setting
Classroom Resources/School Prayer
New: Curious Kinder Advent Calendar
(Electronic Advent calendar for JK/SK students, created by RCCDSB teachers, Rebecca Holly and Tiffany McGrath)
New: Advent and Christmas Activities & Resources from Katie Bogner’s Looktohimandberadiant blog
(Great classroom-friendly resources)
Advent Wreath Craft | Christmas
(Bible Preschool Lesson Plan, Printable Activities)
The Advent Wreath
(By Catherine Fournier, Domestic-Church.com)
Making Advent Wreaths
(By Catherine Fournier, Domestic-Church.com)
CatholicMom.com Advent Resources
(Lots of helpful resources and links here!)
DLTK’s Online Christmas Activities & Resources (Printable colouring pages, craft ideas and classroom resources)
Advent-Christmas-Epiphany Clip ArtColouring Pages
Nativity Coloring Pages
(From Clipartwizard.com. Lots of downloadable colouring pages related to Nativity theme)Advent Wreath Colouring Page(From Domestic-church.com)Advent Resources for Your Family(By Lisa Hendey, Catholic.net)Adult/Secondary Prayer & ReflectionOur Sunday Visitor Advent Reflection Articles
(Geared toward adults/adult faith reflection)
St. Anthony Messenger Press Resources and Information
New: One Prayer a Day for Advent
(Creighton University Online Ministries)
New: Weekly Advent Prayers from Dynamic CatholicInternational
Christmas Around the World
(Lesson planning article from education-world.com on how Christmas is celebrated in countries throughout the world. Lots of links to interesting information for young people.)Advent: Dates, Traditions and History
(By Holly Hartman)CCCB Resources
ADVENT: JOY and HOPE We look forward to the coming of Jesus(CCCB National Liturgy Office)The Celebration of Christmas Masses(History and guidelines for Christmas Mass Liturgy. CCCB National Liturgy Office)U.S. Bishops
Blessing of Advent Wreath(From Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers, USCCB)Various Advent Resources, Blessings, Reflections and Prayers from US BishopsFrench Language Resources: Avent / Noël – 2018
(Ressources excellentes de l’Office provincial de l’éducation de la foi catholique de l’Ontario )
Trousses d’animation pour l’élémentaire et le secondaire
January
January – Serving in the Love of Christ: Serving With Humility
(Adapted from Catholic Education Week Advance Kit. Suitable for school assembly or classroom prayer; for opening school council, staff, trustee, parent meeting or as adult faith reflection)
A New Year of Leading and Serving
(Prayer service for leaders in Catholic schools at the beginning of a new calendar year)
Brother André Resources (Feast Jan 6, 2014)
Classroom Reflection and Prayer With Brother André’s Life Story
St. Andre Bessette Colouring Page
(By Mary MacArthur, www.snowflakeclockwork.blogspot.ca)
Link to St. Joseph’s OratoryDigital presentation on Oratory and Brother André
(excellent for classrooms with smart boards)
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
(Friday Jan 18th to Friday Jan 25th, Christians across Canada celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity).
Canadian Council of Churches Resource Kit, 2019
RCCDSB Adapted Daily School Announcements (2018)
Additional resources:
International Resources on Vatican Website
February
St. Valentinus and Valentine’s Day Activities
Links related to martyr St. Valentinus, Valentine’s Day colouring & craft resources/activities
NEW: St. Valentine, the Real Story
(700 Club: Father Frank O’Gara of Whitefriars Street Church in Dublin, Ireland, tells the real story of the man behind the holiday—St. Valentine.)
NEW: St. Valentine Colouring Pages
Valentine’s Gift Heart
NEW: Video: The First Valentine
(Re-enactment of the story of St. Valentine (Valentinus). Dated, but still worth watching. Target audience, grades 4-7)Valentine’s Gift Heart (Larger Version)(Printable craft activity with a cutout valentine with a line for recipient’s name, and caption that says “Receive the ________ of Christ.” The giver can fill in with a word like “love” or “peace” or “joy.” Shared by RCCDSB teachers Dana Cotnam and Mandy Cotnam)
Little Owl Love Valentine’s Lunch Bag Decoration Activity(From Katie Bogner’s Looktohimandberadiant blog)
A Friend Loves at All Times Printable Valentine’s Colouring Page(From Katie Bogner’s Looktohimandberadiant blog)
Before My Eyes Valentine’s Colouring Page(From Katie Bogner’s Looktohimandberadiant blog)Catholic.org’s Catholic Online Saints and AngelsCatholic Forum: St. Valentine of Rome
Danielle’s Place Valentines Day Crafts for Kids
Valentine’s Day Printables
More Printable ActivitiesNovena to St. Valentinus for Couples(With short introduction, on Aleteia.org)Prayer ServicesTip: School Mass Prayer of Faithful intentions can be borrowed from 2 prayer services belowPrayer to Celebrate Love and Family(Prayer service for Catholic schools)The Virtue of Love(2 page school prayer service on the virtue of love)Virtue of Love Resources under Monthly Virtues Resources here
March
St. Patrick
NEW: Praying the Legacy of St. Patrick, Missionary for Christ
(Short prayer service reflecting on how leaders in Catholic education are called to follow St. Patrick’s example of evangelization today. Easily adapted for staff use.)
Printable Christian St. Patrick’s Day Craft Activities
Images, BLMs, Activities for St. Patrick’s Day on Printerest
St. Patrick’s Breastplate Prayer
(Printable colouring sheet from Katie Bogner’s looktohimandberadiant blog)
St. Patrick: His Life and Online Articles from Franciscan Media
Video: Life of St. Patrick from Catholic Saints Online
Video: St. Patrick – The Irish Legend (Fox Family Entertainment. Well done feature length movie on the life of St. Patrick. Not recommended for primary-junior aged students)
Lent
RCCDSB Resources
Music
Hymn Suggestions for Lent
(Well-known, traditional hymns for use in school prayer services and Eucharist)
Prayer Services: Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday Prayer Service
Lent: A Time for Justice(Suitable for secondary level students, staff prayer)Adult Ash Wednesday Prayer Service(Suitable for Secondary level and staff prayer)Preparing for Lent Prayer Service(Suitable for adult, staff use)
Prayer Services: Other
NEW: Journeying with Feet, Heart and Soul. Prayer Service for the Middle of Lent (Suitable for elementary and secondary use)
Stations of the Cross
Stations of the Cross for Young Followers of Jesus
(Primarily Elementary Use)
Classroom ResourcesStations of the Cross Art & Prayer Booklet(Printable personalized booklet with windows for students to draw stations. Suitable as a prayer service and as Lenten Visual Art activity)My Lenten Calendar(Downloadable Ash Wednesday to Easter calendar for helping students understand the meaning of Lent. Each day, students are invited to colour a square and record for their personal Lenten observances: – to be helpful, – to be kind , – as a sacrifice . Can be modified to suit class needs.)
ReflectionsLent: A Season of Grace (Reflection on Lent, Primarily for Adults/Staff, suitable for use with secondary and senior elementary)
The Chrism Mass, its Symbols and Their Meaning (Resource for teachers; suitable for use with senior elementary, secondary and staff)
External Links
Pope Francis
MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS FOR LENT 2019
(“For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God” Rm 8: 19)
CCCB
Celebrating the Season of Lent
(Explains significance of Lenten practices, liturgies and their historical roots)
Classroom Resources
Lent: Ideas for 40 Days – Katie Bogner’s Looktohimandberadiant Blog(Lots of solid and creative downloadable/printable resources from this religious educator) Lenten Activites for Children from Catholic Mom.com
(Great resources for teachers and parents!)
Lent for Little Ones (4 weekly activities for young children during Lent from domestic-church.com)
Links to Lent Resources and Activities (From Michel Coté’s Catholicfaitheducation.blogspot.com site – great selection, lots for teachers and parents to browse)
Images: Catholic School Bulletin Boards for Lent (Google Images
Images: Catholic School Bulletin Boards for Lent (Pinterest)
Lenten Activities for Kids (Pinterest)
Lenten Activities for Children (Catholicicing.com)
Lenten Activities for Children (Loyola Press)(Provides suggestions to help make Lent more meaningful for elementary students in each division)The Religion Teacher Lent Activities
(Many links to resources to use with students of all ages through the Lenten season)Secondary Student/Adult Faith ResourcesMESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS FOR LENT 2019
(“For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God” Rm 8: 19)
Lent in 3 Minutes (New)(Busted Halo Video)25 Great Things You Can Do for Lent (Besides giving up chocolate)
(Busted Halo article)The Religion Teacher Lent Activities
(Many links to resources to use with students of all ages through the Lenten season)Catholic-Pages.com Lenten Resource Directory
(A dated, but helpful directory of links to resources for teachers and and information on Lenten prayer, customs and their history. Includes writings by Noted Catholic authors, and audio files for online listening)Stations of the Cross in MP3(Pope John Paul II’s reflections on the Stations. Very clear, not too long, and well-done. Can be burned to a CD and played for a school/classroom)Charitable Organizations
Chalice
(Chalice is a Catholic sponsorship organization that provides food, clothing, access to health care to children and assists their families in the developing world)Pontifical Mission Societies – Formerly Holy Childhood Association
HCA Video Gallery
Catholic Missions in Canada
(Formerly, the Catholic Church Extension Society)
Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA)
(Papal agency for humanitarian and pastoral support)
Renfrew County Child Poverty Action Network (RCPAN)
Canadian Foodgrains Bank Lenten Worship Resources
(Ecumenical resources emphasizing biblical justice for the poor and hungry, through prayer and suggested action)
First Step Options, Pregnancy Support Services (Located in Pembroke, ON. Serving the upper Ottawa Valley)
Holy Week & Easter Triduum
RCCDSB Resources
Holy Week School Mass Introduction and Prayer Intentions
(Suitable for elementary or secondary school use)Stations of the Cross for Young Followers of Jesus(Primarily Elementary Use)Stations of the Cross Art & Prayer Booklet(Printable personalized booklet with windows for students to draw stations. Suitable as a prayer service and as Lenten Visual Art activity)Holy Thursday Prayer Service(Suitable for elementary or secondary school use)The Chrism Mass, its Symbols and Their Meaning(A resource for teachers; suitable for use with senior elementary, secondary and staff)Wish List for Christmas and Easter
(Classroom exercise for students of all ages)Online Resources
NEW: Holy Week Reflection Resources (From Loyola Press website)
NEW: Holy Week Printables on Pinterest
(A word of prudence – there are so many resources here. Please review content of those you wish to hand out out to make sure they accurately convey the spirit and meaning of Holy Week)Paper Plate Easter Basket
(Classroom art activity by Colleen and Darcy Hammond, Domestic Church.com)Holy Week Activities, Projects, Devotions for Children
(CatholicMom.com)Holy Week & Easter Clipart
(from Hermanoleon.org)Images of Shroud of TurinResources to Prepare for Holy Week and Celebrate the Sacraments(US Catholic Bishops)
Easter
Octave of Easter Prayer Service for Catholic Educators
(Prayer service for administrative leaders, easily adapted for other staff or school-wide use)
NEW: Easter – 50 Days to Celebrate Classroom Resources (Another great collection of classroom-friendly resources from Katie Bogner’s looktohimandberadiant blog)
Easter Resources for Children’s Ministry
(Classroom-ready crafts, colouring pages, activities downloadable from ministry-to-children.com)
Easter Colouring Pages
(From Clipartwizard.com)
Easter to Pentecost
(Seasonal feature from St. Anthony Messenger Press with articles, sound bites and video)
Paper Plate Easter Basket
(Classroom art activity by Colleen and Darcy Hammond, Domestic Church.com)
Holy Week & Easter Clipart
(from Hermanoleon.org)
Easter Vocabulary Flash Cards (Pinterest collection of various Easter-related flash cards)
Divine Mercy (1st Sunday after Easter)
See our Divine Mercy Page for downloadable children’s colouring pages, links to videos and more information on the Divine Mercy Chaplet prayer.
NEW: Living God’s Mercy
(Prayer highlighting our call to be the merciful hands and feet of Jesus. Suitable for elementary and secondary use.)
EWTN Introduction and Resources
Divine Mercy Chaplet Instructions
Divne Mercy Colouring Pages and Word Search for Kids
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Memorial: April 17
Resources to help schools celebrate the feast day of St. Kateri can be found at our Kateri Tekakwitha Page.
(Note: In the Canadian liturgical calendar, The Memorial of St. Kateri falls on April 17th. In the American liturgical calendar, the Memorial of St. Kateri falls on July 14th).
Earth Day
Earth Day Prayer from Appleseeds.org
(Suitable as part of classroom/school prayer service. Just add: “We make this prayer to You through Christ, our Lord. Amen”)
Catholic Character Theme: Stewardship(Scripture quotes, and many links to online resources from Catholic character development resource, Our Language, Our Story)St. Francis and the Birth of Earth Day(Provides a short history of Earth Day, uses St. Francis’ Peace Prayer)Stewardship Prayer Service(RCCDSB Prayer Service)Environment, Environmental StewardshipCatechism of the Catholic Church No 279-324 See also Catechism of the Catholic Church No. 325-354Compendium on Social Doctrine of the Church. Chapter 10 Safeguarding The EnvironmentTen Commandments for the Environment
(Summarized from Compendium for Social Doctrine of the Church by Bishop Giampaolo Crepaldi, Secretary of Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace)RCCDSB Stewardship Resource: 10 Guiding Principles for the Environment (From the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church)
17 x 11 Colour Poster (PDF)
8.5 x 11 Colour (PDF)Catholic Social Teaching Themes
Catholic Social Teaching – Key Principles Reference Sheet(Succinctly outlines key principles – suitable for classroom display or as reference guide when developing Catholic curriculum)Catholic Social Teaching – Key Principles Pamphlet(4- page reference pamphlet with succinct definition, scripture & Church teaching references, brief explanation of each CST theme)Catholic Social Teaching – Key Principles Booklet
*Additional Resources on the environment can be found on Religious Education/Social Justice Page under “Justice Resources & Links/The Environment, Environmental Stewardship”
NEW: Catholic Education Week 2019
Dates: Sun May 5 – Fri May 10, 2019
Theme: Catholic Education: Living as Joyful Disciples/L’éducation catholique: vivre en disciples joyeux
Scriptural Reference: “Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy.” (1 Peter 1:8)
Daily Sub-themes:
Five sub-themes for Catholic Education: Renewing the Promise/Renouveler la Promesse —Monday: Rooted in Prayer/Enracinés dans la prière
Tuesday: Living in Community/Vivre au Coeur de la communauté
Wednesday: Doing Justice and Creating Hope/Semer la justice et inspirer l’espérance
Thursday: Journeying Together in Faith/Cheminer ensemble dans la foi
Friday: Sharing the Good News/Partager la bonne nouvelle
Complete RCCDSB-Adapted Elementary Kit
Complete RCCDSB-Adapted Secondary Kit
Community Resources and Sample Templates (RCCDSB-Adapted)
Includes the following contents:
Cover Page (RCCDSB-Adapted)
April School Newsletter (RCCDSB-Adapted) Parish Bulletin Announcement (RCCDSB-Adapted) Sample Church Presentation (RCCDSB-Adapted)
Elementary Schools CEW 2018 Package (RCCDSB-Adapted)
Complete Elementary Package as Single Downloadable Document
Secondary
Complete Secondary Package (RCCDSB-Adapted)
May
Living Rosary
Living Rosary Outline with Joyful Mysteries
Living Rosary Outline with Sorrowful Mysteries Living Rosary Outline with Glorious Mysteries Living Rosary Outline with Mysteries of Light Mysteries of the Rosary for Youth
(By Deacon Doug McManaman)Teaching the Rosary to High School Students(From Engagingfaith.blogspot.com Practical advice for teaching the Rosary, with helpful links, resources related to Mary)
Prayers to Our Lady
Prayer to Our Lady Before a Staff Meeting
Prayer to Mary, Mother of Hope (Adapted from longer prayer in Pope John Paul II’s Apostolic Exhortation on Jesus Christ Alive in His Church, the Source of Hope for Europe (Ecclesia in Europa), 2003)
Marian Prayers
(Good online collection of classical, papal, litany, novena and other Marian prayers from the University of Dayton’s Mary Prayer Page)
Mother’s Day
New: Thanksgiving for the Gift of Mothers. Prayer Service for the Month of May
(Most suitable for senior elementary, secondary and adults)
June
New: Prayer Service for Canada Day
(Suitable for elementary, secondary, adult, parish use; can be used at end of school year in anticipation of Canada Day celebrations)New: End of School Year Prayer of the Faithful(Suitable for end of year school Mass or prayer service)Graduation Prayer ServiceSome Graduation Thoughts(Ideas that might help preparing address to graduating students)Looking Back and Looking Ahead: The Value of Friendship(End-of-year student reflection sheet and prayer exercise on the subject of friendship)End of Year Staff PrayerA Year of Growth and Blessings(Prayer to begin inservice for new teachers at end of year. Easily adapted for school staff)
Retirement Prayers
Prayer for Retiring Cleaning Staff Member
End of Year Prayer Services from York Catholic Gifts of Love Prayer Collection:
Angels Among Us A Prayer Service in Honour of our Volunteers
Nurturing Our Inner Gardens A Liturgy to Celebrate the End of the School YearWe Are Gifts A Teachers’ Year End Liturgy
Other Relevant Prayer Services:
Rejoicing in Hope(Prayer to celebrate gifts of Joy and Hope in Catholic Schools, suitable as end-of-year prayer)
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